Occupied Equestria is an RP campaign set in a post-Equestria Equestria, where the princesses are gone, as are the Elements of Harmony. Gone, temporarily at least, but not by any means forgotten.
New players are welcome.
Fantasy Play has a few "kitties" to cuddle with
Brie has a Changeling Queen to negotiate with
Iron has some gangsters to beat
Silver has some follow up to do
Amber is exploring her new home
Spark is either looking for forest demons, or negotiating the fate of a tribe of Wolves
Midnight has more cultists to kill
Onyx has a colt to look after
Dark Star has some communists to kill
/vx/ - Videogames and Paranormal
File (): 9C11BFFF53EA499FD887B42E3991D6BA-396640.jpg (387.3 KB, 800x390, Gas Attack.jpg)
>>130999 →
"Huh...how I did not see that last time I was here..."
He shakes his head clear, and smiles at the younger professor.
"Apologies, I did not even introduce myself. I am Silver Sword. With me is my partner, Mala."
"Huh...how I did not see that last time I was here..."
He shakes his head clear, and smiles at the younger professor.
"Apologies, I did not even introduce myself. I am Silver Sword. With me is my partner, Mala."
>>131003
"Uh" He looks over to Silver, then smiles. He has a reasonable amount of muscle to him, and a sturdier body than the unicorns before, though he's hardly 'exceptionally,' muscular.
"Hi. I'm... Feather Duster... as you heard Dr. Grant say. I study under him in the archaeology department. This is actually my first time out in the field on a trip."
He looks over to Mala, then away
>>131001 →
"Uh..." She carefully moves a hoof up, then slowly steps it ack
"I don't know..."
"Uh" He looks over to Silver, then smiles. He has a reasonable amount of muscle to him, and a sturdier body than the unicorns before, though he's hardly 'exceptionally,' muscular.
"Hi. I'm... Feather Duster... as you heard Dr. Grant say. I study under him in the archaeology department. This is actually my first time out in the field on a trip."
He looks over to Mala, then away
>>131001 →
"Uh..." She carefully moves a hoof up, then slowly steps it ack
"I don't know..."
>>131000
"I don't think a mere changeling could appear so horridly, as a corpse that towers over ponies. Yet all the while it moves as if it were in the prime of its life. The eyes black as night. It showed only annoyance to being stabbed through by a dagger's blade."
"I don't think a mere changeling could appear so horridly, as a corpse that towers over ponies. Yet all the while it moves as if it were in the prime of its life. The eyes black as night. It showed only annoyance to being stabbed through by a dagger's blade."
>>131004
He offers the strapping young pegasus a hoofshake.
"It is good to meet you. I may not be archaeologist, but I am capable of manual labor. Need help moving rubble?"
He offers the strapping young pegasus a hoofshake.
"It is good to meet you. I may not be archaeologist, but I am capable of manual labor. Need help moving rubble?"
>>131007
It takes him a moment, but he extends a hoof. He has a firmer shake, and especially a quicker rhythm
"Uh, well, we're moving some rubble right now around the entrance. Seems to be damaged by an explosion or something. Just trying to clear the area, save any of the bricks used in the original construction, and find out what the purpose of this place is."
He squints his eyes in the sun
It takes him a moment, but he extends a hoof. He has a firmer shake, and especially a quicker rhythm
"Uh, well, we're moving some rubble right now around the entrance. Seems to be damaged by an explosion or something. Just trying to clear the area, save any of the bricks used in the original construction, and find out what the purpose of this place is."
He squints his eyes in the sun
>>131004
"Maybe you can fetch me some potions for when I end the fight?" Iron offers with a weak, sheepish smile.
"Maybe you can fetch me some potions for when I end the fight?" Iron offers with a weak, sheepish smile.
>>131006
"This was a beast unlike any other. It moves with speed despite appearing to rot to the bone. It bit and flailed as if mad, yet still could talk in pony tongue. And it was not one, but three of these abominations that came for us. Do you understand why I have concern as to if there are more lurking nearby?"
"This was a beast unlike any other. It moves with speed despite appearing to rot to the bone. It bit and flailed as if mad, yet still could talk in pony tongue. And it was not one, but three of these abominations that came for us. Do you understand why I have concern as to if there are more lurking nearby?"
>>131008
Silver does not mention his part on the explosion.
"We can help with that."
Silver begins to help clearing rubble, separating the quarry stones from the catacomb bricks.
"I do not know exactly what this place was used for before being used for necromantic experiments, but my best bet from what I saw inside is that it was where ancient Earth Ponies buried their dead so they would be reunited with earth."
Silver does not mention his part on the explosion.
"We can help with that."
Silver begins to help clearing rubble, separating the quarry stones from the catacomb bricks.
"I do not know exactly what this place was used for before being used for necromantic experiments, but my best bet from what I saw inside is that it was where ancient Earth Ponies buried their dead so they would be reunited with earth."
>>131011
Iron hums softly, scratching his chin. "Perhaps you can go first and see how many griffons are there to remind," he offers "that could work."
Iron hums softly, scratching his chin. "Perhaps you can go first and see how many griffons are there to remind," he offers "that could work."
>>131011
"It was at least twice as large as a stallion, if not three time. It was not a flash of green either, but a slow turn, almost a crawl of the skin as it peeled and stretched before the eye."
I forget if Spark actually encountered the transformation or if it was just Brie, but I'm going with it.
"It was at least twice as large as a stallion, if not three time. It was not a flash of green either, but a slow turn, almost a crawl of the skin as it peeled and stretched before the eye."
I forget if Spark actually encountered the transformation or if it was just Brie, but I'm going with it.
>>131012
"Oh, indigenous ponies? I haven't been inside. Well, I haven't been further than a few feet inside. These bricks I think are something like seventh century, maybe sixth or eighth, at least most of this construction isn't ancient. Dr. Grant suggests it looks more like a smuggler's den"
Grant raises his eye brows
"Oh, yes. Smuggler's dens were made in that time in response to new tariffs levied by the Court. It lead to some conflicts in here and in the Dominion, since these areas are dependent on trade. In fact, one of those conflicts is associated with this site, or at least the above ground area."
>>131013
"Uh, sure."
"Oh, indigenous ponies? I haven't been inside. Well, I haven't been further than a few feet inside. These bricks I think are something like seventh century, maybe sixth or eighth, at least most of this construction isn't ancient. Dr. Grant suggests it looks more like a smuggler's den"
Grant raises his eye brows
"Oh, yes. Smuggler's dens were made in that time in response to new tariffs levied by the Court. It lead to some conflicts in here and in the Dominion, since these areas are dependent on trade. In fact, one of those conflicts is associated with this site, or at least the above ground area."
>>131013
"Uh, sure."
>>131014
"Did it look... frozen?" she asks.
Makade walks up, not entire sharing or understanding why Waabishki is concerned, But it seems her concern is making him concerned
"Did it look... frozen?" she asks.
Makade walks up, not entire sharing or understanding why Waabishki is concerned, But it seems her concern is making him concerned
>>131016
"Yes. I recall my friend stabbing it through with his halberd. You could hear the crack of ice, and the air was chilled after."
"Yes. I recall my friend stabbing it through with his halberd. You could hear the crack of ice, and the air was chilled after."
>>131017
Dr. Grant picks up a brick, with a blue aura
"The way this brick is fired. It's an early modern oven. And inside they are arranged in arches. You'll actually see the same thing in some of the older military structures. It's at least possible this was a supply stop for some kind of barracks, though I do not know of any reported here. In any case, this is sixth century or later."
>>131018
"What were its limbs like?"
Dr. Grant picks up a brick, with a blue aura
"The way this brick is fired. It's an early modern oven. And inside they are arranged in arches. You'll actually see the same thing in some of the older military structures. It's at least possible this was a supply stop for some kind of barracks, though I do not know of any reported here. In any case, this is sixth century or later."
>>131018
"What were its limbs like?"
>>131019
"They had holes similar to that of a changeling, but they were gaping spots were flesh left the bone... that is if it even had bone as you could see none. Only the rot."
"They had holes similar to that of a changeling, but they were gaping spots were flesh left the bone... that is if it even had bone as you could see none. Only the rot."
>>131019
Silver strokes his chin while his own blue magic glow moves and sorts other rocks and bricks.
"Hmm...do you know of any particular features of smugglers dens built around this time?"
Silver strokes his chin while his own blue magic glow moves and sorts other rocks and bricks.
"Hmm...do you know of any particular features of smugglers dens built around this time?"
>>131021
"They looked afraid. I heard murmurings of a name, it sounded like Wendigo, but it was clearly not that."
"They looked afraid. I heard murmurings of a name, it sounded like Wendigo, but it was clearly not that."
>>131015
"Alright," Iron concludes "after that, you can go take a break at one of the nearby buildings, watching in case I get a bit too overwhelmed."
"Alright," Iron concludes "after that, you can go take a break at one of the nearby buildings, watching in case I get a bit too overwhelmed."
>>131024
"So you just want to waltz in, guns blazing?"
>>131022
"Well... Mostly they would have used what was available. A basement, a natural cave, or a hole they dug in the ground... This would be a bit usual, but not unusual for an underground structure of this size at the time"
>>131023
Her tail sinks further and further down
"The Wetiko..."
"So you just want to waltz in, guns blazing?"
>>131022
"Well... Mostly they would have used what was available. A basement, a natural cave, or a hole they dug in the ground... This would be a bit usual, but not unusual for an underground structure of this size at the time"
>>131023
Her tail sinks further and further down
"The Wetiko..."
>>131026
"I took a walk around when we first came in, then I went back outside to begin the process along with Feather Duster. Dr. Faucet of the Hippology department, and Extra Pair remained inside"
>>131028
"A sneak attack won't scare them, just piss them off. There's nothing special or meaningful about losing when an enemy surprises you. Just strike back. It's when you lose a fight you're prepared for... that you begin to think you might not win."
>>131027
She nods
"Yes. It is a demon of myth, what happens when a soul is overly consumed by greed in a time of need, where the outside becomes like what is within"
"I took a walk around when we first came in, then I went back outside to begin the process along with Feather Duster. Dr. Faucet of the Hippology department, and Extra Pair remained inside"
>>131028
"A sneak attack won't scare them, just piss them off. There's nothing special or meaningful about losing when an enemy surprises you. Just strike back. It's when you lose a fight you're prepared for... that you begin to think you might not win."
>>131027
She nods
"Yes. It is a demon of myth, what happens when a soul is overly consumed by greed in a time of need, where the outside becomes like what is within"
>>131030
"Well... there are certainly many places to put smuggled items. The abundance of mummified corpses... that's harder to account for"
"Well... there are certainly many places to put smuggled items. The abundance of mummified corpses... that's harder to account for"
>>131031
"Oh, you can ask Peer Review about those. This was occupied by Joseph Curwhinny in 8th century, who used it for necromantic experiments. I gave him all my information on subject earlier."
"Oh, you can ask Peer Review about those. This was occupied by Joseph Curwhinny in 8th century, who used it for necromantic experiments. I gave him all my information on subject earlier."
>>131032
He nods. Slowly.
"Well, we are coming to slowly learn more about this place, and the creatures who have interacted with it"
>>131033
"Demons is... a very 'pony' way of looking at it. Imagining that the spiritual world and the material are separate, and the spiritual sometimes invades the material. It's more like a swelling, or manifestation of negative energy and emotion at one spot. Greediness and Gluttony in a time of Winter and Starvation... That is how I understood the teachings, anyways."
He nods. Slowly.
"Well, we are coming to slowly learn more about this place, and the creatures who have interacted with it"
>>131033
"Demons is... a very 'pony' way of looking at it. Imagining that the spiritual world and the material are separate, and the spiritual sometimes invades the material. It's more like a swelling, or manifestation of negative energy and emotion at one spot. Greediness and Gluttony in a time of Winter and Starvation... That is how I understood the teachings, anyways."
>>131029
"I was thinking something more along the lines of grandstanding at their main base of operations' entrance," Iron explains "boast power, then when they challenge it with their own display of power, 'remind' them."
"I was thinking something more along the lines of grandstanding at their main base of operations' entrance," Iron explains "boast power, then when they challenge it with their own display of power, 'remind' them."
>>131035
She nods, and places a hoof up to her muzzle in evident contemplation
"Now that, that could work. Come in with a threat or warning before hoof, challenge them to fights, and do it in a way that all of them don't immediately shoot you, but instead things escalate slowly, and end with a promise."
>>131036
"I never said that. Just that we are learning more about this place and its origins"
She nods, and places a hoof up to her muzzle in evident contemplation
"Now that, that could work. Come in with a threat or warning before hoof, challenge them to fights, and do it in a way that all of them don't immediately shoot you, but instead things escalate slowly, and end with a promise."
>>131036
"I never said that. Just that we are learning more about this place and its origins"
>>131034
"I don't suppose there are any more in the forest then if they take over the greedy. That's a relief."
"I don't suppose there are any more in the forest then if they take over the greedy. That's a relief."
>>131038
"Well... it's at least possible there could be others, or that there is some other cause here... but the Wetikos come from ordinary wolves and ponies."
>>131039
Silver picks up more rocks and more bricks as does Mala, until the entrance is cleared of bricks and rocks. Feather Duster has shifted to tending to the objects placed on the canvas.
"Well... it's at least possible there could be others, or that there is some other cause here... but the Wetikos come from ordinary wolves and ponies."
>>131039
Silver picks up more rocks and more bricks as does Mala, until the entrance is cleared of bricks and rocks. Feather Duster has shifted to tending to the objects placed on the canvas.
>>131037
"What sort of threat would rile them up, however?" Iron asks "Some sort of 'Do not mess with the owner of this turf' or something like that?"
"What sort of threat would rile them up, however?" Iron asks "Some sort of 'Do not mess with the owner of this turf' or something like that?"
>>131040
Silver trots over to him once he's done. He motions to the sheathed sword?
"May I take look?"
Silver trots over to him once he's done. He motions to the sheathed sword?
"May I take look?"
>>131044
"Any sort of code of honor I could use to make them use nonlethal attacks only?" Iron asks "Aside from not killing their ponies, of course."
"Any sort of code of honor I could use to make them use nonlethal attacks only?" Iron asks "Aside from not killing their ponies, of course."
>>131046
Dr. Grant moves back
"Careful with that!"
Feather Duster and Mala do not, looking at the unsheathing.
The scabbard is rotted and deteriorated, as is the leather grip of the hilt. But the blade, the cross guard, and the remainder of the handle are sparkling and pristine. The blade itself is not the black of iron, or even the grey of steel, but an almost white, shining color as if it were crafted out of silver. Along the blade are small cuts and designs that Silver cannot quite make out, and on the rainguard of the handle is a sun pattern. The sword is very large, rather heavy, and clearly intended to be used as a two hooved weapon or for stronger magic wielders. The crossguard has small balls at the end, and the blade looks as if it were recently sharpened.
>>131047
She shakes her head
"No traditions like that. But you could try goading them into attacking with only claws."
Dr. Grant moves back
"Careful with that!"
Feather Duster and Mala do not, looking at the unsheathing.
The scabbard is rotted and deteriorated, as is the leather grip of the hilt. But the blade, the cross guard, and the remainder of the handle are sparkling and pristine. The blade itself is not the black of iron, or even the grey of steel, but an almost white, shining color as if it were crafted out of silver. Along the blade are small cuts and designs that Silver cannot quite make out, and on the rainguard of the handle is a sun pattern. The sword is very large, rather heavy, and clearly intended to be used as a two hooved weapon or for stronger magic wielders. The crossguard has small balls at the end, and the blade looks as if it were recently sharpened.
>>131047
She shakes her head
"No traditions like that. But you could try goading them into attacking with only claws."
>>131049
"If they already have weapons in claw, something has gone wrong. Don't taunt them too hard or they'll take it more seriously. Let their fear, not their anger bring them to arms."
"If they already have weapons in claw, something has gone wrong. Don't taunt them too hard or they'll take it more seriously. Let their fear, not their anger bring them to arms."
>>131050
"Got it," Iron responds "so minimize taunts to only make them start to attack me then proceed to remind them."
"Got it," Iron responds "so minimize taunts to only make them start to attack me then proceed to remind them."
>>131048
He doesn't seem to hear Grant, pulling up a hoof to slide along the flat of the blade. It makes a subtle ring as the hard part of his hoof rubs along the metal. He turns away from Feather to make a couple skilled, small swings with the blade through the air to get a sense of its balance.
He doesn't seem to hear Grant, pulling up a hoof to slide along the flat of the blade. It makes a subtle ring as the hard part of his hoof rubs along the metal. He turns away from Feather to make a couple skilled, small swings with the blade through the air to get a sense of its balance.
>>131051
"Something like that, yes."
>>131052
A cane-machete, light Pegasi saber or dueling rapier, it is not. Nor does it handle as such. It does not swiftly fly through the air or dance around, or pull out of its scabbard quickly... at least, it doesn't without Silver putting most of his effort and strength into it. Rather, this is a sword designed to do as much damage as possible when it gets to its target., presumably made for an era when a sword was the best or even the only option against armored targets, great Manticore, or even dragons. Maakie's sword had better balance.
"Something like that, yes."
>>131052
A cane-machete, light Pegasi saber or dueling rapier, it is not. Nor does it handle as such. It does not swiftly fly through the air or dance around, or pull out of its scabbard quickly... at least, it doesn't without Silver putting most of his effort and strength into it. Rather, this is a sword designed to do as much damage as possible when it gets to its target., presumably made for an era when a sword was the best or even the only option against armored targets, great Manticore, or even dragons. Maakie's sword had better balance.
>>131053
"I think I am seeing the drawing a lot more clearly," Iron replies with a couple of nods "anything else worth noting that I might have missed?"
"I think I am seeing the drawing a lot more clearly," Iron replies with a couple of nods "anything else worth noting that I might have missed?"
>>131055
Iron hums softly, rubbing his chin softly. "...I am not too sure what sort of utility you would have, considering your skillset," he ponders "...you could be the one to build me up as a formidable adversary in a far more respectful light and I simply brought you here as a witness to the might of the Waterfront gang."
Iron hums softly, rubbing his chin softly. "...I am not too sure what sort of utility you would have, considering your skillset," he ponders "...you could be the one to build me up as a formidable adversary in a far more respectful light and I simply brought you here as a witness to the might of the Waterfront gang."
>>131058
"Well, I could sweet talk them in any number of ways, or do other things. I can pull my weight too"
"Well, I could sweet talk them in any number of ways, or do other things. I can pull my weight too"
>>131053
He takes a deep breath in through his nostrils, then out through his mouth. He assumes an old Earth Pony fighting stance, modified slightly for use by a unicorn with telekinesis. He spreads his front and hind legs to widen his stance, feeling the firm earth underneath him, unmovable and unbreakable. He steels his will to be as unbendable as the earth itself. Suddenly, he makes a large, powerful swing of the sword from left to right, followed by the sword returning right to left. It doesn't have the grace or reflexes of a light style used for lighter weapons, but each swing has obvious power behind it. His hooves slide and shift appropriately without leaving the ground as he continues to carve through the air, only occasionally stopping to block, parry, and riposte an enemy blade that isn't there. The only sounds he makes are small grunts of exersion with every sword swing, and the singing of the greatsword slicing the air in front of him. After a fair demonstration, he ends it with an overhead strike, levelling the sword but a few inches to the ground, low and powerful enough to kick up dust around the blade.
He takes a deep breath in through his nostrils, then out through his mouth. He assumes an old Earth Pony fighting stance, modified slightly for use by a unicorn with telekinesis. He spreads his front and hind legs to widen his stance, feeling the firm earth underneath him, unmovable and unbreakable. He steels his will to be as unbendable as the earth itself. Suddenly, he makes a large, powerful swing of the sword from left to right, followed by the sword returning right to left. It doesn't have the grace or reflexes of a light style used for lighter weapons, but each swing has obvious power behind it. His hooves slide and shift appropriately without leaving the ground as he continues to carve through the air, only occasionally stopping to block, parry, and riposte an enemy blade that isn't there. The only sounds he makes are small grunts of exersion with every sword swing, and the singing of the greatsword slicing the air in front of him. After a fair demonstration, he ends it with an overhead strike, levelling the sword but a few inches to the ground, low and powerful enough to kick up dust around the blade.
>>131059
"You could work as a conflict defuser," Iron offers "if you think the point was made and feeling the threat of gunfire is almost a certainty."
"You could work as a conflict defuser," Iron offers "if you think the point was made and feeling the threat of gunfire is almost a certainty."
>>131060
Silver finds that the sword doesn't start moving very easily, and is even harder to stop. But it cuts through the air with great proficiency. In warfare, this sword's niche was most likely severing enemy pikes and halberds, and it looks like it could do that job very well, even if so many aspects of construction imply why its kind later went extinct. It must have been the best of what it was, back then. Mala seems impressed, almost awed. Feather Duster is surprised. Dr. Grant is somewhat disturbed.
>>131061
"Hmmm.... That could be"
Silver finds that the sword doesn't start moving very easily, and is even harder to stop. But it cuts through the air with great proficiency. In warfare, this sword's niche was most likely severing enemy pikes and halberds, and it looks like it could do that job very well, even if so many aspects of construction imply why its kind later went extinct. It must have been the best of what it was, back then. Mala seems impressed, almost awed. Feather Duster is surprised. Dr. Grant is somewhat disturbed.
>>131061
"Hmmm.... That could be"
>>131062
"Of course, if we get enough notoriety to get the boss himself to come down, you can always sell me as this fearsome warrior and remark he is one of many, too."
"Of course, if we get enough notoriety to get the boss himself to come down, you can always sell me as this fearsome warrior and remark he is one of many, too."
>>131062
Silver takes another deep breath, then stands back up out of the stance. He looks again at the Celestial symbol.
"This...this is masterfully made weapon."
Silver takes another deep breath, then stands back up out of the stance. He looks again at the Celestial symbol.
"This...this is masterfully made weapon."
>>131065
"Oh," Iron responds "then you stick to being a conflict defuser, then. Anything else I might be missing?"
"Oh," Iron responds "then you stick to being a conflict defuser, then. Anything else I might be missing?"
>>131067
Grant:
"I don't know. Most likely a museum."
The sword is not perfect, with the leather on the handle eaten away, and the scabbard almost falling apart. The metal, however, is in much better condition that steel could be expected to hold up, in water or out
>>131066
"Most likely, but we won't necessarily know until it happens"
Grant:
"I don't know. Most likely a museum."
The sword is not perfect, with the leather on the handle eaten away, and the scabbard almost falling apart. The metal, however, is in much better condition that steel could be expected to hold up, in water or out
>>131066
"Most likely, but we won't necessarily know until it happens"
>>131068
"Understood," Iron concludes, now looking forward, ready to show these griffons this stallion has the moves.
"Understood," Iron concludes, now looking forward, ready to show these griffons this stallion has the moves.
>>131068
He looks more lovingly at the excellent craftsmanship, something which would impress even his own father.
"I will admit, I am reluctant to let something as beautiful and well-made as this languish and rot away behind some glass exhibit..."
He looks more lovingly at the excellent craftsmanship, something which would impress even his own father.
"I will admit, I am reluctant to let something as beautiful and well-made as this languish and rot away behind some glass exhibit..."
>>131069
Iron walks up Percheron avenue, past trees and smaller single family residences. Iron has left Baltimare, and is onwards further North. He will remember that he's been this way before. When he went to the cannery. And going up further the houses become closer together again, and there are more streets crossing east to west
Iron walks up Percheron avenue, past trees and smaller single family residences. Iron has left Baltimare, and is onwards further North. He will remember that he's been this way before. When he went to the cannery. And going up further the houses become closer together again, and there are more streets crossing east to west
>>131071
"Fact that it has survived for this long means it is special. More so than most ponies can see."
He rubs his hoof along the blade moreso.
"It is very likely some smith's masterwork, enchanted and enhanced after its creation with holy solar magic for this paladin. It is not merely some warrior's steel from long ago."
"Fact that it has survived for this long means it is special. More so than most ponies can see."
He rubs his hoof along the blade moreso.
"It is very likely some smith's masterwork, enchanted and enhanced after its creation with holy solar magic for this paladin. It is not merely some warrior's steel from long ago."
>>131072
"...huh," Iron mutters as he trudges along "I feel some strange sense I have done something similar to what I am doing right now."
"...huh," Iron mutters as he trudges along "I feel some strange sense I have done something similar to what I am doing right now."
>>131073
The blade is very much sharp, as if it were sharpened yesterday.
Dr. Grant comes further, and places his hoof to adjust his glasses. Feather Duster walks around Silver to be on the other side.
“Yes... this does look like a paladin’s sword. Either a military order or Inquisition... if that’s true, it may still belong to the Equestrian church.”
>>131074
“It happens” Sands remarks
The blade is very much sharp, as if it were sharpened yesterday.
Dr. Grant comes further, and places his hoof to adjust his glasses. Feather Duster walks around Silver to be on the other side.
“Yes... this does look like a paladin’s sword. Either a military order or Inquisition... if that’s true, it may still belong to the Equestrian church.”
>>131074
“It happens” Sands remarks
>>131075
"My father taught me that every blade is forged with purpose. To display, to defend, to kill...every one was forged to fulfill specific role in this world."
He looks over to Grant.
"If it belongs to Church, then I would request your permission to return it to them."
"My father taught me that every blade is forged with purpose. To display, to defend, to kill...every one was forged to fulfill specific role in this world."
He looks over to Grant.
"If it belongs to Church, then I would request your permission to return it to them."
>>131075
"Right," Iron nods with a lightly sheepish smile before trotting on towards the fabled North Point he's supposed to find the immigrant Manehattan gang's most recent purchase.
"Right," Iron nods with a lightly sheepish smile before trotting on towards the fabled North Point he's supposed to find the immigrant Manehattan gang's most recent purchase.
>>131077
Passing a school and a small, single story town hall, it’s official. Iron is in the town of Northpoint.
>>131076
“So they are...” he looks at Silver skeptically
“Forgive me if am impolite but... how will we know this will find its way to the church? Or even confirm that this once belonged to a religious order that is extant to this day?”
Passing a school and a small, single story town hall, it’s official. Iron is in the town of Northpoint.
>>131076
“So they are...” he looks at Silver skeptically
“Forgive me if am impolite but... how will we know this will find its way to the church? Or even confirm that this once belonged to a religious order that is extant to this day?”
>>131078
"Alright," Iron lets out, looking about "now where would these griffons be..."
Did Germane tell Iron where exactly to find the family in question?
"Alright," Iron lets out, looking about "now where would these griffons be..."
Did Germane tell Iron where exactly to find the family in question?
>>131078
"No, such skepticism is natural and healthy when dealing those you have just met. I suppose I can give no other assurance besides my word, and request for you to trust me. I am friend of Father Maren at Cathedral here in city. As for finding out if it truly belonged to someone in Celestial order...well, who better to ask besides Celestialists themselves?"
"No, such skepticism is natural and healthy when dealing those you have just met. I suppose I can give no other assurance besides my word, and request for you to trust me. I am friend of Father Maren at Cathedral here in city. As for finding out if it truly belonged to someone in Celestial order...well, who better to ask besides Celestialists themselves?"
>>131081
Remembering they bought fishing related stuff, he knew to seek the coast of this town for his best chance to stumble onto the family he was looking for.
He scans his surroundings, wondering where the sea was in his current position.
Remembering they bought fishing related stuff, he knew to seek the coast of this town for his best chance to stumble onto the family he was looking for.
He scans his surroundings, wondering where the sea was in his current position.
>>131082
North, which is “forward” from the direction from which he came. Walking towards the shore, some area have rocks or grass leading up the shore, usually with houses or private property by them. But there is an area of docks with large boats, some of which are in poorer condition, and buildings by the docks
>>131083
“Well... she’s somewhere
North, which is “forward” from the direction from which he came. Walking towards the shore, some area have rocks or grass leading up the shore, usually with houses or private property by them. But there is an area of docks with large boats, some of which are in poorer condition, and buildings by the docks
>>131083
“Well... she’s somewhere
>>131084
"You said inside...I shall go look for her there."
He involuntarily shivers.
"Thank Celestia all of undead are gone now...it was nightmare inside structure before."
"You said inside...I shall go look for her there."
He involuntarily shivers.
"Thank Celestia all of undead are gone now...it was nightmare inside structure before."
>>131084
"Hm..." Iron lets out as he trudges along, nearing himself towards the docks, figuring they may be congregating in that particular area, before looking at Sands with a pensive look "do tell me if you spot one of these griffins."
"Hm..." Iron lets out as he trudges along, nearing himself towards the docks, figuring they may be congregating in that particular area, before looking at Sands with a pensive look "do tell me if you spot one of these griffins."
>>131087
"You think we should ask around if any griffons started moving around the area?" Iron asks Sands, starting to feel a little lost.
"You think we should ask around if any griffons started moving around the area?" Iron asks Sands, starting to feel a little lost.
>>131089
"...I feel you are going to bring up a rather important consequence if I go that route," Iron continues, walking around in search for the griffons around the docks.
"...I feel you are going to bring up a rather important consequence if I go that route," Iron continues, walking around in search for the griffons around the docks.
>>131087
The floof spreads...
"I recommend them, it feels like darkness will consume you in there without light. And watch your step on first floor, quarrying operations that happened here knocked significant amount of rubble from walls and ceiling onto floor."
Silver doesn't have any flood lights, but he has his horn and his flashlight. He looks to Mala.
"What about you? Want to come along, or stay out here?"
The floof spreads...
"I recommend them, it feels like darkness will consume you in there without light. And watch your step on first floor, quarrying operations that happened here knocked significant amount of rubble from walls and ceiling onto floor."
Silver doesn't have any flood lights, but he has his horn and his flashlight. He looks to Mala.
"What about you? Want to come along, or stay out here?"
>>131092
"...we may actually have to ask around," Iron mutters again "hopefully these folk got a bar that would kindly give us such information or somepony to trail back into their main outpost."
"...we may actually have to ask around," Iron mutters again "hopefully these folk got a bar that would kindly give us such information or somepony to trail back into their main outpost."
>>131092
Silver smiles, finally sheaths the sword, and motions for Mala to follow him into the catacombs.
"Alright, come along then!
."
Silver smiles, finally sheaths the sword, and motions for Mala to follow him into the catacombs.
"Alright, come along then!
."
>>131095
Thankfully, with Silver's light sources, they aren't entirely in the dark. He doesn't mind Mala sticking to him as he searches around for this Faucet.
Thankfully, with Silver's light sources, they aren't entirely in the dark. He doesn't mind Mala sticking to him as he searches around for this Faucet.
>>131095
"So we should look for where these ponies congregate and we know it is a place for fun..." Iron summarizes "do point out what buildings are for fun in case I miss them."
Having said that, he switches his search parameters from griffons to bars and other entretainment spots.
"So we should look for where these ponies congregate and we know it is a place for fun..." Iron summarizes "do point out what buildings are for fun in case I miss them."
Having said that, he switches his search parameters from griffons to bars and other entretainment spots.
>>131099
Iron decides to check out the first restaurant he saw first in order to see the general picture of this town.
Iron decides to check out the first restaurant he saw first in order to see the general picture of this town.
>>131102
"Alright," Iron tells Sands "see if you can hear anything about these griffons we are looking for."
Having said that, he uses his native ears to listen closely to the ponies' potential talks.
If rolls are needed, you only need to ask.
"Alright," Iron tells Sands "see if you can hear anything about these griffons we are looking for."
Having said that, he uses his native ears to listen closely to the ponies' potential talks.
If rolls are needed, you only need to ask.
>>131103
There’s some kind of ball game, it seems like. Something about Manehattan. Something else about some horrible pony, and something about a cult. And still something else about finally getting around to repainting the house.
“Are you afraid to talk to ponies?” Sands asks
>>131104
There is a lantern inside sitting on the ground. The table is mostly intact, but so many books are burned, and many more are missing.
Sitting on the ground, with a tail that is tied together, is a small yellow earth pony, bright as a lemon, with a strawberry colored mane that is also tied back. She is looking at a few burnt pages rather intently.
There’s some kind of ball game, it seems like. Something about Manehattan. Something else about some horrible pony, and something about a cult. And still something else about finally getting around to repainting the house.
“Are you afraid to talk to ponies?” Sands asks
>>131104
There is a lantern inside sitting on the ground. The table is mostly intact, but so many books are burned, and many more are missing.
Sitting on the ground, with a tail that is tied together, is a small yellow earth pony, bright as a lemon, with a strawberry colored mane that is also tied back. She is looking at a few burnt pages rather intently.
>>131105
Silver knows this place well. He speaks up.
"Excuse me? Would you happen to be Professor Faucet?"
Silver knows this place well. He speaks up.
"Excuse me? Would you happen to be Professor Faucet?"
>>131105
Iron's ear flickers, turning to Sands with a lightly surprised motion. "H-huh?" he lets out "I figured talking to them could lead to an unfavorable outcome."
Iron's ear flickers, turning to Sands with a lightly surprised motion. "H-huh?" he lets out "I figured talking to them could lead to an unfavorable outcome."
>>131108
"Thank you," Iron replies as he lets Sands do the talking for him as per his first request to establish their business relationship.
"Thank you," Iron replies as he lets Sands do the talking for him as per his first request to establish their business relationship.
>>131108
He smiles at her. He's slightly surprised at the shear size difference between them.
"I am Silver Sword. I was told you are expert of Celestialism."
He smiles at her. He's slightly surprised at the shear size difference between them.
"I am Silver Sword. I was told you are expert of Celestialism."
>>131110
She has a plain expression, and takes a moment before she answers
“Well... I was raised in the faith. I am an expert on religions generally. My doctoral thesis was on the split cult of the neighuatl and it’s survival, or not, into modern times.”
Is Pear making another claim for best pony?
She has a plain expression, and takes a moment before she answers
“Well... I was raised in the faith. I am an expert on religions generally. My doctoral thesis was on the split cult of the neighuatl and it’s survival, or not, into modern times.”
Is Pear making another claim for best pony?
>>131111
"Cult of Neighuatl...I have never heard of that before, but considering my prior experience with cults it can not be any worse. Anyways..."
He pulls out the sheathed sword.
"I believe this belonged to paladin who had turned centuries ago. I was wondering if you could confirm it for me, and if you knew what group he belonged to."
"Cult of Neighuatl...I have never heard of that before, but considering my prior experience with cults it can not be any worse. Anyways..."
He pulls out the sheathed sword.
"I believe this belonged to paladin who had turned centuries ago. I was wondering if you could confirm it for me, and if you knew what group he belonged to."
>>131113
"No, it's just a term used to describe the solar worship. The descriptions of mass equine sacrifice are mostly exaggerated and not an accurate depiction of ordinary practices for most ponies."
She looks down at the sword, and tries to grab it with a hoof
"Where did this come from?"
"No, it's just a term used to describe the solar worship. The descriptions of mass equine sacrifice are mostly exaggerated and not an accurate depiction of ordinary practices for most ponies."
She looks down at the sword, and tries to grab it with a hoof
"Where did this come from?"
>>131114
"Ah. Sorry, just...recent experience with Maarists has tainted word 'cult' for me."
He lets her grab and take the sword to inspect it.
"It was found on armoured ghast that was dispatched here in quarry two days ago. Nature of its armour, combined with inscriptions on blade and its somehow perfectly preserved condition makes me believe it was paladin's enchanted sword."
"Ah. Sorry, just...recent experience with Maarists has tainted word 'cult' for me."
He lets her grab and take the sword to inspect it.
"It was found on armoured ghast that was dispatched here in quarry two days ago. Nature of its armour, combined with inscriptions on blade and its somehow perfectly preserved condition makes me believe it was paladin's enchanted sword."
>>131115
She looks up to him, with an almost playful curiosity
"Maarists, you say?"
Then she looks a little more confused
"Ghast?"
She abandons that though, and looks down at the sword
"Well, it's a very large sword. There is too much moisture in here for this to be ordinary steel. It's too white too. Looks like silver, or maybe platinum. If it's silver, it's a very pure silver because any copper impurities would have caused it to tarnish. It's probably a steel sword with a thin outer layer of noble metal melted onto it. This was probably made before electro-plating, so that's a thicker outer layer than we'd have in a sword of this kind if we made one today. Now I can tell you that this thing is either a decorative piece, or it's a magically enchanted sword, because no way would any swordstallion have a sword with a very weak and malleable precious metal covering the sword unless it was magically enchanted to be harder. The steel gives it some structural strength, while the noble metal holds an enchantment well. It also looks prettier, which was probably intended, and it's basically impervious to rust or corrosion, which is kind of a happy accident. It could also be a ceremonial piece never meant for combat, or a modern forgery-"
She turns the sword around
She looks up to him, with an almost playful curiosity
"Maarists, you say?"
Then she looks a little more confused
"Ghast?"
She abandons that though, and looks down at the sword
"Well, it's a very large sword. There is too much moisture in here for this to be ordinary steel. It's too white too. Looks like silver, or maybe platinum. If it's silver, it's a very pure silver because any copper impurities would have caused it to tarnish. It's probably a steel sword with a thin outer layer of noble metal melted onto it. This was probably made before electro-plating, so that's a thicker outer layer than we'd have in a sword of this kind if we made one today. Now I can tell you that this thing is either a decorative piece, or it's a magically enchanted sword, because no way would any swordstallion have a sword with a very weak and malleable precious metal covering the sword unless it was magically enchanted to be harder. The steel gives it some structural strength, while the noble metal holds an enchantment well. It also looks prettier, which was probably intended, and it's basically impervious to rust or corrosion, which is kind of a happy accident. It could also be a ceremonial piece never meant for combat, or a modern forgery-"
She turns the sword around
>>131116
>>131115
Now, she inspects the sword itself
"Do you see that?"
She points to a star like symbol with branching rays
"This is the symbol of the Order of Saint Georgos. It's a military order established in the Eclipse Gulf area around 600 ALB. I don't recall the exact year, but around that time. They were established by migrants mostly of the Earth Pony Husak tribe and a few associated ones. It was made to protect Equestrian migrants in this general region. Against raiding natives, chimera, hydra, sea serpents, the occasional changeling, a few ventures although the way into Griffonia, but above all against dragons. The order does not exist today."
>>131115
Now, she inspects the sword itself
"Do you see that?"
She points to a star like symbol with branching rays
"This is the symbol of the Order of Saint Georgos. It's a military order established in the Eclipse Gulf area around 600 ALB. I don't recall the exact year, but around that time. They were established by migrants mostly of the Earth Pony Husak tribe and a few associated ones. It was made to protect Equestrian migrants in this general region. Against raiding natives, chimera, hydra, sea serpents, the occasional changeling, a few ventures although the way into Griffonia, but above all against dragons. The order does not exist today."
Just pulled another all-nighter. Won't be able to make it today, sorry
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>>131117 →
>>131118
"That would explain sword's heft. Even compared to my own greatsword, this is heavy weapon. It does not want to slash when weld, it wants to carve."
He inspects the inscription she pointed out.
"These Husaks, where did they originally hail from?"
>>131118
"That would explain sword's heft. Even compared to my own greatsword, this is heavy weapon. It does not want to slash when weld, it wants to carve."
He inspects the inscription she pointed out.
"These Husaks, where did they originally hail from?"
>>131123
It’s like a Star with four prongs, each prong itself having rays exuding from it. Below, on either side of the fuller, is a shield, and a flame.
“From ‘Earth,’ the Equestriain East inland, and from further north before that. Earth Pony Nation.”
It’s like a Star with four prongs, each prong itself having rays exuding from it. Below, on either side of the fuller, is a shield, and a flame.
“From ‘Earth,’ the Equestriain East inland, and from further north before that. Earth Pony Nation.”
>>131128
He admires the beauty of the sword.
"Professor Grant and Feather Duster want this to be displayed as piece of local culture...but I will admit, I am reluctant to let sword like this gather dust in museum."
He admires the beauty of the sword.
"Professor Grant and Feather Duster want this to be displayed as piece of local culture...but I will admit, I am reluctant to let sword like this gather dust in museum."
>>131130
"When I was little I apprenticed underneath my blacksmith father, and he taught me that every blade is forged with purpose to fulfill its roll. And this is very special blade indeed, forged to be used in battle to protect others, not to be displayed and sit idle."
"When I was little I apprenticed underneath my blacksmith father, and he taught me that every blade is forged with purpose to fulfill its roll. And this is very special blade indeed, forged to be used in battle to protect others, not to be displayed and sit idle."
>>131131
“Well, this sword was probably made to fight against dragons, and was probably a hundred years old with more than one owner when it came here.”
“Well, this sword was probably made to fight against dragons, and was probably a hundred years old with more than one owner when it came here.”
>>131132
"Regardless, it was not meant for display. It just...it hurts, being blacksmith and swordpony, seeing sword like this be put up on display like that."
"Regardless, it was not meant for display. It just...it hurts, being blacksmith and swordpony, seeing sword like this be put up on display like that."
>>131133
“Under the law, ‘lost’ and ‘abandoned property belong to whoever finds it, but if it’s ‘mislaid’ it belongs to whoever owns the property it is found on. All of this is assuming that the original owner can’t be found, which isn’t necessarily a fair assumption. Ordo Sanctus Georgius no longer exists, but some organization might claim to be the successor, like the Equestrian church. Then their’s the question of whether this is ‘Antiquities’ site and this protected under that Act. I think Peer Review and Dr. Grant want to take it and put it on display in Stableside, though Baltimare is more likely. Mostly they want the credit for it, to be ‘recognized’ for it. We weren’t even supposed to be here to begin with, this is a detour from a planned dig on Snake River. We were hired to do an archeological examination. I think the property owner just wants to be done with all of this and build here. This sword was not easy for its creator to make, especially back in those days. It was probably given to more than one Paladin of the order to save on money. It speaks to an insecure time in the regions history, where ponies and Dragons did not live in peace. But it also belongs to an era when this region defined itself and began to develop an identity, by withstanding a horde.”
She ends, and looks up directly at Silver
“Under the law, ‘lost’ and ‘abandoned property belong to whoever finds it, but if it’s ‘mislaid’ it belongs to whoever owns the property it is found on. All of this is assuming that the original owner can’t be found, which isn’t necessarily a fair assumption. Ordo Sanctus Georgius no longer exists, but some organization might claim to be the successor, like the Equestrian church. Then their’s the question of whether this is ‘Antiquities’ site and this protected under that Act. I think Peer Review and Dr. Grant want to take it and put it on display in Stableside, though Baltimare is more likely. Mostly they want the credit for it, to be ‘recognized’ for it. We weren’t even supposed to be here to begin with, this is a detour from a planned dig on Snake River. We were hired to do an archeological examination. I think the property owner just wants to be done with all of this and build here. This sword was not easy for its creator to make, especially back in those days. It was probably given to more than one Paladin of the order to save on money. It speaks to an insecure time in the regions history, where ponies and Dragons did not live in peace. But it also belongs to an era when this region defined itself and began to develop an identity, by withstanding a horde.”
She ends, and looks up directly at Silver
>>131134
Silver seems to accept her response with a "hmm". He doesn't focus for too long on it.
"Snake River sounds...pleasant. I am new to Southeast Equestria. I assume it is somewhere in area?"
Silver seems to accept her response with a "hmm". He doesn't focus for too long on it.
"Snake River sounds...pleasant. I am new to Southeast Equestria. I assume it is somewhere in area?"
[1d20+7 = 23]
>>131109
Sands looks around, and then starts approaching ponies, starting with the single males. Her story is that she is staying with an aunt and uncle in the area, and that she is fascinated by the boats. She generally acts bubbly and oblivious, but very curious about who she can talk to to get on one of the boats, as well as curious about griffins once griffins are mentioned. She is more flirtatious than most mares would dare be while their boyfriend is watching.
>>131137
"We are going there to investigate reports about caverns and sights in the area. Supposedly Hayfeather fled Tenochtitlan and brought a treasure with him, or that's the rumor anyways. More or less we are going there to look for artifacts from around the time of Equestria's first contact with Tenochtitlan."
>>131109
Sands looks around, and then starts approaching ponies, starting with the single males. Her story is that she is staying with an aunt and uncle in the area, and that she is fascinated by the boats. She generally acts bubbly and oblivious, but very curious about who she can talk to to get on one of the boats, as well as curious about griffins once griffins are mentioned. She is more flirtatious than most mares would dare be while their boyfriend is watching.
>>131137
"We are going there to investigate reports about caverns and sights in the area. Supposedly Hayfeather fled Tenochtitlan and brought a treasure with him, or that's the rumor anyways. More or less we are going there to look for artifacts from around the time of Equestria's first contact with Tenochtitlan."
>>131138
Iron stands there, nodding softly as Sands does her work since that side of their relationship was unveiled already. An uneasy feeling of being replaced creeps slightly into his mind, but for now he feels confident enough to worry about it later.
Iron stands there, nodding softly as Sands does her work since that side of their relationship was unveiled already. An uneasy feeling of being replaced creeps slightly into his mind, but for now he feels confident enough to worry about it later.
>>131138
>>131139
After some time, she comes back to Iron with her serious expression
"Evidently there's this business, 'Salty's Sardines,' cute, I know - this business was in hard times when some cannery was shutdown. The owner sold it to some griffins from out of town who didn't do anything with it except have a couple griffin's visit its offices sometimes. But in the last few weeks, more have moved it. There's this one griffin known to drive around in a Fillydelphia Royal and has been seen repeatedly at one of the restaurants here. There's a lot more activity on the docks too, with some of the boats sometimes leaving. They've shown interest in buying more things, and can get rather pushy when told 'no.' It makes many of the locals uncomfortable. There's some story about some's windows being broken after not wanting to do some kind of paint job. There's a few other details as well, but it seems like they are there."
>>131139
After some time, she comes back to Iron with her serious expression
"Evidently there's this business, 'Salty's Sardines,' cute, I know - this business was in hard times when some cannery was shutdown. The owner sold it to some griffins from out of town who didn't do anything with it except have a couple griffin's visit its offices sometimes. But in the last few weeks, more have moved it. There's this one griffin known to drive around in a Fillydelphia Royal and has been seen repeatedly at one of the restaurants here. There's a lot more activity on the docks too, with some of the boats sometimes leaving. They've shown interest in buying more things, and can get rather pushy when told 'no.' It makes many of the locals uncomfortable. There's some story about some's windows being broken after not wanting to do some kind of paint job. There's a few other details as well, but it seems like they are there."
>>131140
"So our best shot is going for the Salty's Sardines place, then," Iron concludes with a nod "do we go straight there or you do think we should remind the more famous griffin among the locals?"
"So our best shot is going for the Salty's Sardines place, then," Iron concludes with a nod "do we go straight there or you do think we should remind the more famous griffin among the locals?"
>>131138
"Tenochtitlan? I have only heard stories and tales about that place from my father, but if they are at all true it is treasure trove of artifacts and gold, for those who can brave jungle's dangers."
"Tenochtitlan? I have only heard stories and tales about that place from my father, but if they are at all true it is treasure trove of artifacts and gold, for those who can brave jungle's dangers."
>>131141
"That 'more famous griffin' is probably more famous among the Griffins too. It depends on how you want to approach this."
>>131142
"Well, that is the hope as well. I've also heard stories from my Grandmother. This will be my first time actually going into the jungle. Not my first time in the region though"
"That 'more famous griffin' is probably more famous among the Griffins too. It depends on how you want to approach this."
>>131142
"Well, that is the hope as well. I've also heard stories from my Grandmother. This will be my first time actually going into the jungle. Not my first time in the region though"
>>131143
"We should probably focus on the more famous if it's for their strength to properly remind them," Iron explains "so we would be better off going into their turf and remind a lot more griffins rather than focus on one whose power is not centered on reminders."
"We should probably focus on the more famous if it's for their strength to properly remind them," Iron explains "so we would be better off going into their turf and remind a lot more griffins rather than focus on one whose power is not centered on reminders."
>>131145
Iron softly jabs at the air two times, making sure not to accidentally boop some random pony that was walking in front of him.
Iron softly jabs at the air two times, making sure not to accidentally boop some random pony that was walking in front of him.
>>131143
"I have never been, either. I hope your team has funding for bodyguards, there is no telling if you will run into hostile wildlife, bandits looking for treasure, or whatever other dangers exists under canopy."
"I have never been, either. I hope your team has funding for bodyguards, there is no telling if you will run into hostile wildlife, bandits looking for treasure, or whatever other dangers exists under canopy."
>>131148
"...you did get what I mean when I did that, right?" Iron asks curiously as he starts walking out of the restaurant.
"...you did get what I mean when I did that, right?" Iron asks curiously as he starts walking out of the restaurant.
>>131149
"Sure. You want to physically beat them, and hope that's enough to scare them out of the area"
"Sure. You want to physically beat them, and hope that's enough to scare them out of the area"
>>131150
"It is simply to demonstrate physical prowess and superiority, of course," Iron replies "and only if they are as prideful as you have said."
"It is simply to demonstrate physical prowess and superiority, of course," Iron replies "and only if they are as prideful as you have said."
>>131148
"I hope he knows what he is doing. You all have been relatively nice, I would hate to hear of your disappearance. I wish you all luck in your endeavor, that you are quite successful and bring back many lost treasures."
He trots over to examine the burnt books.
"So, how have things been in Stableside? All calm, I hope?"
"I hope he knows what he is doing. You all have been relatively nice, I would hate to hear of your disappearance. I wish you all luck in your endeavor, that you are quite successful and bring back many lost treasures."
He trots over to examine the burnt books.
"So, how have things been in Stableside? All calm, I hope?"
>>131152
"Like the mare said, it is a reminder of who is more powerful," Iron explains "and to not mess with our territory. Making them leave would be nice, but I doubt a stallion like myself could convince them in any other way than through the 'reminders' and be wholly effective, considering their "
"Like the mare said, it is a reminder of who is more powerful," Iron explains "and to not mess with our territory. Making them leave would be nice, but I doubt a stallion like myself could convince them in any other way than through the 'reminders' and be wholly effective, considering their "
>>131153
"Some of you are alright. Don't fly American Airlines on the 24th."
She stares at him for a moment
"It's... it's calmer. Nothing like Manehattan or even Baltimare. Or at least the city is calm. The countryside has more resistance and fighting. More than most places, probably."
>>131154
"Oh. Alright, then."
"Some of you are alright. Don't fly American Airlines on the 24th."
She stares at him for a moment
"It's... it's calmer. Nothing like Manehattan or even Baltimare. Or at least the city is calm. The countryside has more resistance and fighting. More than most places, probably."
>>131154
"Oh. Alright, then."
>>131156
"Do you think I could cause so much fear that I could basically scare all these griffins off through physical force?" Iron asks in mild disbelief.
"Do you think I could cause so much fear that I could basically scare all these griffins off through physical force?" Iron asks in mild disbelief.
>>131159
"Right," Iron answers with a nod as he aligns his body towards Salty's Sardines "we try to encounter a sizable group of thugs, we goad them into a nonlethal fight and then we tell them who owns this land. The more group I knock out, the better."
"Right," Iron answers with a nod as he aligns his body towards Salty's Sardines "we try to encounter a sizable group of thugs, we goad them into a nonlethal fight and then we tell them who owns this land. The more group I knock out, the better."
>>131160
"Sure"
Past a set of shops and homes, they get back towards the waterfront, and the piers
>>131161
"I don't know. Calm breeds lethargy, indifference to others, selfishness, wastefulness. Squabbling and infighting. Ponies need some struggle against something external to define themselves, or even to build themselves. Both individually and collectively."
"Sure"
Past a set of shops and homes, they get back towards the waterfront, and the piers
>>131161
"I don't know. Calm breeds lethargy, indifference to others, selfishness, wastefulness. Squabbling and infighting. Ponies need some struggle against something external to define themselves, or even to build themselves. Both individually and collectively."
>>131162
Iron scans the area of obviously battle-hardened griffons to challenge their authority, knowing they will be most likely doing some harrassment to the local worksponies.
Iron scans the area of obviously battle-hardened griffons to challenge their authority, knowing they will be most likely doing some harrassment to the local worksponies.
>>131162
"Maybe. Then again, these past few years have been nothing but struggle, and it feels like we will sooner tear each other to shreads than try to rebuild what we once had."
"Maybe. Then again, these past few years have been nothing but struggle, and it feels like we will sooner tear each other to shreads than try to rebuild what we once had."
>>131163
No outdoors griffins on the streets. Or at least, not yet. But looking onto the docks, there are a pair of griffins. It looks like they are doing something with the pier itself, and the boats
>>131164
"I don't know. The struggle is supplied by ponies themselves, not so much by other things. Other things outside of ponies. We have less disease now, less work, more conveniences, less poverty. I know ponies complain about poverty now, but I've seen my grandmother's farm. I know it used to be worse. I remember how in that relative peace after the Storm King's defeat, it began, slowly. Bickering over politics and who gets money, that sort of stuff. Then when the Changelings started to make their return. It was a great difference. Ponies would work together, donate for war bonds. Start to be united as one. Then other ponies invaded, the Changeling threat receded... There are no fewer problems, but they are of our own making. Like, when we don't have problems, we don't know what to do with ourselves and make our own problems. It's not conducive to good character. Not at all."
No outdoors griffins on the streets. Or at least, not yet. But looking onto the docks, there are a pair of griffins. It looks like they are doing something with the pier itself, and the boats
>>131164
"I don't know. The struggle is supplied by ponies themselves, not so much by other things. Other things outside of ponies. We have less disease now, less work, more conveniences, less poverty. I know ponies complain about poverty now, but I've seen my grandmother's farm. I know it used to be worse. I remember how in that relative peace after the Storm King's defeat, it began, slowly. Bickering over politics and who gets money, that sort of stuff. Then when the Changelings started to make their return. It was a great difference. Ponies would work together, donate for war bonds. Start to be united as one. Then other ponies invaded, the Changeling threat receded... There are no fewer problems, but they are of our own making. Like, when we don't have problems, we don't know what to do with ourselves and make our own problems. It's not conducive to good character. Not at all."
>>131165
He begins to nod after a couple seconds of silence.
"Yes. I see your point. Let us just hope these problems we've created do not end up destroying us."
He begins to nod after a couple seconds of silence.
"Yes. I see your point. Let us just hope these problems we've created do not end up destroying us."
>>131165
Humming softly, Iron decides to close in on the griffons, only to loiter 100 ft away in a challenging fashion by exhuding a pretentious, defiant attitude, to see if anypony would react to such scornful and disrespectful act.
Humming softly, Iron decides to close in on the griffons, only to loiter 100 ft away in a challenging fashion by exhuding a pretentious, defiant attitude, to see if anypony would react to such scornful and disrespectful act.
>>131167
It looks as if the griffins are working. One is on the closer end of the pier, minding a mooring around an unoccupied space on the pier. The other is further away, also tending to a mooring, but with a faded white trawler next to it
>>131166
She nods, and gives a subdued smile, the first one in the time Silver has spoken with her
It looks as if the griffins are working. One is on the closer end of the pier, minding a mooring around an unoccupied space on the pier. The other is further away, also tending to a mooring, but with a faded white trawler next to it
>>131166
She nods, and gives a subdued smile, the first one in the time Silver has spoken with her
>>131168
Not seeing any indication of gangster griffons, he turns to Sands in a whisper motion. "Should I try loudly complaining about the gang's occupation to lure a group of these thugs to me?" he asks softly.
Not seeing any indication of gangster griffons, he turns to Sands in a whisper motion. "Should I try loudly complaining about the gang's occupation to lure a group of these thugs to me?" he asks softly.
>>131168
"So, Review and his cohort are doing...something, in their tent. Duster and Grant are examining outside. What are you and other pony doing here inside?"
"So, Review and his cohort are doing...something, in their tent. Duster and Grant are examining outside. What are you and other pony doing here inside?"
>>131169
"If you just act like a drunk, they might ignore you. Go right up to them."
>>131170
"Peer Review and Loans are mapping out the site, trying to get a view of the larger history, and have a location to analyze any physical artifacts brought up to them. Extra Pair and I are examining the interior of the building. Grant and Feather duster will too, when they get done outside. This room here seems to have been a library. So I am examining books. What remains, at least"
"If you just act like a drunk, they might ignore you. Go right up to them."
>>131170
"Peer Review and Loans are mapping out the site, trying to get a view of the larger history, and have a location to analyze any physical artifacts brought up to them. Extra Pair and I are examining the interior of the building. Grant and Feather duster will too, when they get done outside. This room here seems to have been a library. So I am examining books. What remains, at least"
>>131171
Iron considers this alternative, which would make it easier to define these griffons as thugs for the family, but feels there is a risk of actually upsetting some random civilian.
Figuring it would be better to start a direct confrontation instead of standing in the sidelines like a wimp, he starts to menacingly approach the griffion without the trawler.
When he reaches the 30ft mark, he stops, sizing him up impersonally. "Are you part of the griffons that came from Manehattan?" he asks in a stoic, demanding manner, looking down at him.
Iron considers this alternative, which would make it easier to define these griffons as thugs for the family, but feels there is a risk of actually upsetting some random civilian.
Figuring it would be better to start a direct confrontation instead of standing in the sidelines like a wimp, he starts to menacingly approach the griffion without the trawler.
When he reaches the 30ft mark, he stops, sizing him up impersonally. "Are you part of the griffons that came from Manehattan?" he asks in a stoic, demanding manner, looking down at him.
>>131174
"It is shame we may never know which."
He picks up and looks at one of the destroyed books.
"Know what Extra Pair is look through now? Or have you both been working separately?"
"It is shame we may never know which."
He picks up and looks at one of the destroyed books.
"Know what Extra Pair is look through now? Or have you both been working separately?"
>>131174
"Their welcoming ceremony," Iron answers coldly, subtly craning his neck, awaiting either a scratch or further questioning.
"Their welcoming ceremony," Iron answers coldly, subtly craning his neck, awaiting either a scratch or further questioning.
>>131177
"I wonder what he found."
He sets the book down, and turns to Professor Faucet. He offers her a hoofshake.
"It has been pleasure meeting you, Faucet."
"I wonder what he found."
He sets the book down, and turns to Professor Faucet. He offers her a hoofshake.
"It has been pleasure meeting you, Faucet."
>>131178
Exactly what he means is subject to interpretation, but he seems to think Iron is some kind of worker, or a part of some party arranged to meet with whoever is coming
>>131179
She looks to him, and shakes his hoof. Her shake is firmer than any of the others thus far
"Who are you? Or were you, exactly?"
Exactly what he means is subject to interpretation, but he seems to think Iron is some kind of worker, or a part of some party arranged to meet with whoever is coming
>>131179
She looks to him, and shakes his hoof. Her shake is firmer than any of the others thus far
"Who are you? Or were you, exactly?"
>>131180
"I see," Iron remarks, nodding softly "I will stay here in the meantime, then."
With that, the native promptly sits on his place, looking as stoic and cold as ever, staring forwards and awaiting the incoming group.
"I see," Iron remarks, nodding softly "I will stay here in the meantime, then."
With that, the native promptly sits on his place, looking as stoic and cold as ever, staring forwards and awaiting the incoming group.
>>131182
He rubs the back of his neck.
"There is not much to tell. There were at least two dozen undead, maybe more. I partially drained water in quarry, then went inside and fired my rifle near quarry enterance to get horde's attention and use myself as bait to lure them outside. I brought them over towards unexploded bomb from War stuck on quarry wall, shot it with rifle, and blew most of them to pieces. Those that survived I just finished it off with my rifle from range. All except mummy, and armoured ghast this sword came from. They were attracted towards bait I used just when giant bird came out of nowhere and fought them for it."
He rubs the back of his neck.
"There is not much to tell. There were at least two dozen undead, maybe more. I partially drained water in quarry, then went inside and fired my rifle near quarry enterance to get horde's attention and use myself as bait to lure them outside. I brought them over towards unexploded bomb from War stuck on quarry wall, shot it with rifle, and blew most of them to pieces. Those that survived I just finished it off with my rifle from range. All except mummy, and armoured ghast this sword came from. They were attracted towards bait I used just when giant bird came out of nowhere and fought them for it."
>>131184
Iron decides he might as well learn about the gang. "I have not been told much about the client," he preludes stoically with the slightest of shuffling closer in order to see the line wrapping even clearer. "Do you happen to know what is the occassion?"
Iron decides he might as well learn about the gang. "I have not been told much about the client," he preludes stoically with the slightest of shuffling closer in order to see the line wrapping even clearer. "Do you happen to know what is the occassion?"
>>131188
"Ohhhh. I gave all information I had on this place to Peer Review as he was first I came across. This is personal labratory of one Joseph Curwhinny, who took to practicing necromancy after death of his family to plague. He wanted to find way to bring them back, but never found way to. He did, however, create large number of animated skeletons of ponies, zebras, wolves, and even chimera, as well as more zombie-like undead called ghasts to serve him, and supposedly even reached lichdom. Eventually, he found new love, but mare he would marry was originally betrothed to sailor named Whipperwhill. Angered and having learned of Curwhinny's practices from one of Curwhinny's former friends, he formed militia to storm catacombs. They sealed Curwhinny away in his chambers, but they released his experiments and none of militia ponies survived.
"As for library, that is more...unfortunate story. Before I came by myself, I had been in here previously with other group, which included kirin. She became angered by what she thought were necromantic tomes, and...she set fire to library."
"Ohhhh. I gave all information I had on this place to Peer Review as he was first I came across. This is personal labratory of one Joseph Curwhinny, who took to practicing necromancy after death of his family to plague. He wanted to find way to bring them back, but never found way to. He did, however, create large number of animated skeletons of ponies, zebras, wolves, and even chimera, as well as more zombie-like undead called ghasts to serve him, and supposedly even reached lichdom. Eventually, he found new love, but mare he would marry was originally betrothed to sailor named Whipperwhill. Angered and having learned of Curwhinny's practices from one of Curwhinny's former friends, he formed militia to storm catacombs. They sealed Curwhinny away in his chambers, but they released his experiments and none of militia ponies survived.
"As for library, that is more...unfortunate story. Before I came by myself, I had been in here previously with other group, which included kirin. She became angered by what she thought were necromantic tomes, and...she set fire to library."
>>131197
He smiles.
"I do not mind kirins. Though, perhaps it is wise to keep fire extinguisher around when dealing with them."
He smiles.
"I do not mind kirins. Though, perhaps it is wise to keep fire extinguisher around when dealing with them."
>>131200
Scooting about 10ft closer towards the griffon, Iron seems to keep watching the griffon do his thing. "Why are you working alone at this time of the day?"
Scooting about 10ft closer towards the griffon, Iron seems to keep watching the griffon do his thing. "Why are you working alone at this time of the day?"
>>131200
"From what very few we managed to recover before having to flee because of carbon monoxide, many were on occult practices, histories of various civilzations, or were hoof-written books. None were actually necromantic in nature. Many were rare...some irreplacable..."
"From what very few we managed to recover before having to flee because of carbon monoxide, many were on occult practices, histories of various civilzations, or were hoof-written books. None were actually necromantic in nature. Many were rare...some irreplacable..."
>>131207
Iron, in turn, firmly yet gently places his hoof on the griffon's feathery chest to stop him as he was walking away. "Is something the matter?" he asks coldly, glaring at the griffon.
Iron, in turn, firmly yet gently places his hoof on the griffon's feathery chest to stop him as he was walking away. "Is something the matter?" he asks coldly, glaring at the griffon.
>>131207
Silver nods, sadly.
"Yes, it is shame...I do not know where those we recovered are now, but I hope there are someplace safe."
Silver nods, sadly.
"Yes, it is shame...I do not know where those we recovered are now, but I hope there are someplace safe."
>>131210
Iron glances at the griffon sternly, keeping his hoof on his chest through sheer strength. "So you are part of the Ginovicci family," he concludes, wondering how he would react at such an accusation.
Iron glances at the griffon sternly, keeping his hoof on his chest through sheer strength. "So you are part of the Ginovicci family," he concludes, wondering how he would react at such an accusation.
>>131213
"It seems I will get to properly start the ceremony with you," Iron answers as he takes off his hoof, craning his neck and standing up before giving the griffon a challenging glare, stancing himself for a fight "I will give you a taste of what the real owners of these lands have to offer."
"It seems I will get to properly start the ceremony with you," Iron answers as he takes off his hoof, craning his neck and standing up before giving the griffon a challenging glare, stancing himself for a fight "I will give you a taste of what the real owners of these lands have to offer."
>>131216
Iron quickly moves his body away from the first griffon by 20ft, patiently waiting with a fighting stance while tracking his eyes to the second griffon. "Go ahead," he taunts "try me."
Iron quickly moves his body away from the first griffon by 20ft, patiently waiting with a fighting stance while tracking his eyes to the second griffon. "Go ahead," he taunts "try me."
>>131219
The first griffin stands in the same position until the second is beside the first. He too, has some kind of weapon in his claw, though it looks more like an improvised club
"Get the fuck out of here'!"
The first griffin stands in the same position until the second is beside the first. He too, has some kind of weapon in his claw, though it looks more like an improvised club
"Get the fuck out of here'!"
>>131218
"Oh, that is quite impressive."
He smiles at her.
"Anyways, I am going to go meet with Extra Pair and see what he is doing. It was wonderful meeting with you, again, Faucet."
"Oh, that is quite impressive."
He smiles at her.
"Anyways, I am going to go meet with Extra Pair and see what he is doing. It was wonderful meeting with you, again, Faucet."
>>131221
She nods to him, and seems as if she is going to say something, before saying nothing at all
She nods to him, and seems as if she is going to say something, before saying nothing at all
>>131220
Iron tilts his head, seeing the griffons telling him to go away instead of actually attacking him before shrugging softly and planting his hoof on the ground, grinding his frog against the floor. "Or what?" he demands in a stoic manner.
Iron tilts his head, seeing the griffons telling him to go away instead of actually attacking him before shrugging softly and planting his hoof on the ground, grinding his frog against the floor. "Or what?" he demands in a stoic manner.
>>131225
Iron smiles devilishly, looking down at the two griffons. "Perhaps you need to be reminded of who really owns this place," he taunts, keeping himself still.
Iron smiles devilishly, looking down at the two griffons. "Perhaps you need to be reminded of who really owns this place," he taunts, keeping himself still.
>>131230
"I will be sure to give you some good bruises to show off!" Iron exclaims before charging forth, opting for a quick hoof of his front hoof to test the switch-blade wielding griffon's defensive skills, obviously intent on knocking/incapacitating rather than killing him.[1d20+10 = 28]<Unarmed Strike
"I will be sure to give you some good bruises to show off!" Iron exclaims before charging forth, opting for a quick hoof of his front hoof to test the switch-blade wielding griffon's defensive skills, obviously intent on knocking/incapacitating rather than killing him.[1d20+10 = 28]<Unarmed Strike
>>131233
Silver decides now is a good time to introduce himself.
"Excuse me? Would you happen to be Extra Pair?"
Silver decides now is a good time to introduce himself.
"Excuse me? Would you happen to be Extra Pair?"
[1d20+4 = 19]
[1d20+3 = 20]
>>131234
"Huh? Oh, yes I am" he says, looking up at Silver. His voice is even higher than Feather Duster's. He seems smaller, and older as well, though younger than Grant or Peer Review, and Faucet is closer in age to any of the three graduate students than Grant or Peer Review
>>131235
He is not out.
They strike Iron with club and knife
[1d20+3 = 20]
>>131234
"Huh? Oh, yes I am" he says, looking up at Silver. His voice is even higher than Feather Duster's. He seems smaller, and older as well, though younger than Grant or Peer Review, and Faucet is closer in age to any of the three graduate students than Grant or Peer Review
>>131235
He is not out.
They strike Iron with club and knife
>>131238
Starting to smile in anticipation, Iron opts to finish the switchblade griffon off with a quick jab at his face, obviously nonlethal yet with a little more force.
[1d20+8 = 22]<Power Attack (-2 to hit for +2 damage) unarmed strike
Starting to smile in anticipation, Iron opts to finish the switchblade griffon off with a quick jab at his face, obviously nonlethal yet with a little more force.
[1d20+8 = 22]<Power Attack (-2 to hit for +2 damage) unarmed strike
>>131236
He offers the stallion a hoofshake, just like the others.
"I am Silver Sword, pony who cleared undead out from this place. I saw you and your team doing work here, and I was curious what you were doing."
He offers the stallion a hoofshake, just like the others.
"I am Silver Sword, pony who cleared undead out from this place. I saw you and your team doing work here, and I was curious what you were doing."
[1d20+3 = 21]
>>131242
Iron's hit lands in the chest, there is an "umph," he staggers back a little, but his hind leg catches on a plank, he stumbles and falls to the side, with a claw over the side of the pier. he does not get up.
The second griffin looks disconcerted, but still encouraged by the injuries to Iron, and he swings at Iron again with his small metal pipe.
>>131242
Iron's hit lands in the chest, there is an "umph," he staggers back a little, but his hind leg catches on a plank, he stumbles and falls to the side, with a claw over the side of the pier. he does not get up.
The second griffin looks disconcerted, but still encouraged by the injuries to Iron, and he swings at Iron again with his small metal pipe.
>>131244
The griffin's most recent attempt to beat Iron down only serves to crane his neck at him before turning around and promptly sending anonlethal buck to his chest, deciding it's best to end this.
[1d20+7 = 21]<Power Attack (-3 to hit +3 damage) unarmed strike
The griffin's most recent attempt to beat Iron down only serves to crane his neck at him before turning around and promptly sending anonlethal buck to his chest, deciding it's best to end this.
[1d20+7 = 21]<Power Attack (-3 to hit +3 damage) unarmed strike
>>131246
Feeling his hooves connect, Iron can't help but crack a frenzied smile as he finishes his motions.
[1d3+8 = 11]<Damage
Feeling his hooves connect, Iron can't help but crack a frenzied smile as he finishes his motions.
[1d3+8 = 11]<Damage
[1d2 = 2]
>>131245
"Well uh, there's a remains of a few equines on the floor, bullet cases, and uh some clothes from an older time periods. It's rather disgusting as the flesh is all mumified. It still has a bad smell to it. And over there is uh, there's a, it's like a burial niche or something. Looks like this site has been pretty disturbed, many times. Early modern construction, I think, but uh, Dr. Grant may have more to say about that."
>>131247
He makes a wheezing sound, and is knocked back for a moment
>>131245
"Well uh, there's a remains of a few equines on the floor, bullet cases, and uh some clothes from an older time periods. It's rather disgusting as the flesh is all mumified. It still has a bad smell to it. And over there is uh, there's a, it's like a burial niche or something. Looks like this site has been pretty disturbed, many times. Early modern construction, I think, but uh, Dr. Grant may have more to say about that."
>>131247
He makes a wheezing sound, and is knocked back for a moment
>>131248
Silver nods to the stallion. He looks at the bullet casings on the ground.
"Before us, most recent time it was disturbed was in War, when Equestrians troops were chased inside by New Marelander troops."
Silver nods to the stallion. He looks at the bullet casings on the ground.
"Before us, most recent time it was disturbed was in War, when Equestrians troops were chased inside by New Marelander troops."
>>131248
>>131249
"Tell your family to better watch their step on these lands," Iron proclaims as he approaches the griffon "or else they will incur the wrath of many like me."
Having said that, he decides to give the beaked felow a boop to their beak, followed by a swift nonlethal punch to their chest.
[1d20+10 = 18]<Unarmed strike
>>131249
"Tell your family to better watch their step on these lands," Iron proclaims as he approaches the griffon "or else they will incur the wrath of many like me."
Having said that, he decides to give the beaked felow a boop to their beak, followed by a swift nonlethal punch to their chest.
[1d20+10 = 18]<Unarmed strike
>>131252
"I have no clue. Much of damage downstairs was caused by quarrying operations, most likely."
"I have no clue. Much of damage downstairs was caused by quarrying operations, most likely."
>>131255
Iron lets out a little huff, relaxing slightly before looking at his surroundings for any other potential family member around these parts.
Iron lets out a little huff, relaxing slightly before looking at his surroundings for any other potential family member around these parts.
>>131257
"...I figured there would be more here," Iron muses before starting to leisurely walk away from the scene, figuring it might be best to lay low somewhere.
"...I figured there would be more here," Iron muses before starting to leisurely walk away from the scene, figuring it might be best to lay low somewhere.
File (): 598601FBCCD4F74CF6CADEA312E47EA1-1688408.png (1.6 MB, 1774x2174, 28B40069-B923-49AE-8CEC-9D98D777DBC5.png)
Ponies?
>>131263
I feel much better now
Amber is amazed by the regal style of this trim and she looks at her reflection in the glass. She goes around to find a door or doorpony.
I feel much better now
Amber is amazed by the regal style of this trim and she looks at her reflection in the glass. She goes around to find a door or doorpony.
>>131266
As the building seems to use revolving doors, there is no door pony per se. But entering through the brass trimmed door, Amber sees herself in the lobby, an atrium of at least three stories with black marble walls and tile floors. In the center on the lower level is an elevator bank, to each side are halls that enter under brass doorways to the other two rectangular sections. There is at least one cafe, over to the left. On the wall of the atrium is a nautical map of the world, with Baltimare marked out, and a number of routes across the oceans. To the left are a set of counters with more than one young mare behind them, with their manes pulled back. Above them on the high walls are images of tall masted sailing clippers. To the right are a couple black uniformed guards
As the building seems to use revolving doors, there is no door pony per se. But entering through the brass trimmed door, Amber sees herself in the lobby, an atrium of at least three stories with black marble walls and tile floors. In the center on the lower level is an elevator bank, to each side are halls that enter under brass doorways to the other two rectangular sections. There is at least one cafe, over to the left. On the wall of the atrium is a nautical map of the world, with Baltimare marked out, and a number of routes across the oceans. To the left are a set of counters with more than one young mare behind them, with their manes pulled back. Above them on the high walls are images of tall masted sailing clippers. To the right are a couple black uniformed guards
I thought there would be more players. I think everyone is fixated on the suicide of DB
>>131267
Amber widens her eyes in shock as she is quite out of her element here. Indeed the very walls resemble the descriptions of the towers of powerful mages in old legends.
Whoever lives here has got to be really rich…
She trots up to the closest counter and meekly asks, "Hello, may I…may I have a look around?"
>>131267
Amber widens her eyes in shock as she is quite out of her element here. Indeed the very walls resemble the descriptions of the towers of powerful mages in old legends.
Whoever lives here has got to be really rich…
She trots up to the closest counter and meekly asks, "Hello, may I…may I have a look around?"
>>131271
The mare, pink with bright red mane, looks confused for a moment, before simply answering "sure"
The mare, pink with bright red mane, looks confused for a moment, before simply answering "sure"
>>131271
For me, it is more that I have to wake up early tomorrow, so I can't really start anything. But I hope you have fun. Maybe one day my character will happen upon yours.
For me, it is more that I have to wake up early tomorrow, so I can't really start anything. But I hope you have fun. Maybe one day my character will happen upon yours.
>>131274
Entering into this area is a small coffee shop and what looks like cafe serving sandwhichs, salads and the like, as well as another smaller set of elevators. There is also a utility room, and a room that seems to be related to security, but that's further back in the hall on the lower level. Most floors are tile, with walls that are sometimes painted white, but are marble in more prominent public areas, such as a pink marble around the elevator bank
Entering into this area is a small coffee shop and what looks like cafe serving sandwhichs, salads and the like, as well as another smaller set of elevators. There is also a utility room, and a room that seems to be related to security, but that's further back in the hall on the lower level. Most floors are tile, with walls that are sometimes painted white, but are marble in more prominent public areas, such as a pink marble around the elevator bank
>>131255
"I imagine there is some to find still. With what you have found, have you come up with any stories about this place?"
"I imagine there is some to find still. With what you have found, have you come up with any stories about this place?"
>>131276
Sorry for the inconsistency in posting, I'm involved in the DB drama
Amber tries to peek at the the food prices in the café.
Sorry for the inconsistency in posting, I'm involved in the DB drama
Amber tries to peek at the the food prices in the café.
>>131278
Oof. Hope you can tear them a new asshole in his consciousness. That way they'll be open to all ideas.
All hole, no ass.
Oof. Hope you can tear them a new asshole in his consciousness. That way they'll be open to all ideas.
All hole, no ass.
>>131277
"Well...." He takes a long pause
"It looks like there's several layers of events here. There's a much older fight, one that took place in the eighth or so century, and one in modern times, at least. There's a crypt here, and an older skeleton, I think"
>>131278
The cafe's prices are inflated from what Amber knows back home by a noticeable margin, but they are not outrageous either
What's the state of affairs now?
>>131279
This
"Well...." He takes a long pause
"It looks like there's several layers of events here. There's a much older fight, one that took place in the eighth or so century, and one in modern times, at least. There's a crypt here, and an older skeleton, I think"
>>131278
The cafe's prices are inflated from what Amber knows back home by a noticeable margin, but they are not outrageous either
What's the state of affairs now?
>>131279
This
>>131280
"Oh, I know about battle in eighth century. I gave all of my information to Peer Review when I came across him."
"Oh, I know about battle in eighth century. I gave all of my information to Peer Review when I came across him."
>>131280
DB endorsed BLM in Twitter and announced it would be shutting down comments and "controversial" (read: not supporting BLM) uploads on the site. Needless to say, that part of the userbase which noticed and isn't composed of leftists are freaking out.
Amber goes back the way she came and goes to the other rectangular section.
DB endorsed BLM in Twitter and announced it would be shutting down comments and "controversial" (read: not supporting BLM) uploads on the site. Needless to say, that part of the userbase which noticed and isn't composed of leftists are freaking out.
Amber goes back the way she came and goes to the other rectangular section.
>>131281
"Oh, well that's very good. Uh, when we are uh handling a normal dig, like a ruined wall or something, there is usually layers of dirt that provide context to each find. Like if there's a coin or something in the one layer, thn you can uh, take a guess as to when that happened, or get a sense of when in relation to the other things. But here, everything is in one place. Modern stuff next to old stuff, and it really looks like this guy was taking stuff from many different places and times and putting it together right here. Like there's some skeletons of what looks like older indigenous ponies, then some other ones that look like they were dead before whatever... whatever this magical stuff here is, and then some that died right here. I mean it's like a crime scene with how everything is laid out, except it isn't like a crime scene, it's like several of them right here in the same space, and you got to figure out what is what. I'm sure Peer Review can figure it out. Especially if there is writings, or something. I just need to mark down where every little thing is found on the floor here."
>>131282
But how big is the backlash?
Besides the mail room - which is in the back, by the way, and Amber wouldn't have noticed it until later - there is a very curious addition. A small museum, which takes up part of the right rectangle, and the center square. A museum to the Tall Sails Shipping Company
"Oh, well that's very good. Uh, when we are uh handling a normal dig, like a ruined wall or something, there is usually layers of dirt that provide context to each find. Like if there's a coin or something in the one layer, thn you can uh, take a guess as to when that happened, or get a sense of when in relation to the other things. But here, everything is in one place. Modern stuff next to old stuff, and it really looks like this guy was taking stuff from many different places and times and putting it together right here. Like there's some skeletons of what looks like older indigenous ponies, then some other ones that look like they were dead before whatever... whatever this magical stuff here is, and then some that died right here. I mean it's like a crime scene with how everything is laid out, except it isn't like a crime scene, it's like several of them right here in the same space, and you got to figure out what is what. I'm sure Peer Review can figure it out. Especially if there is writings, or something. I just need to mark down where every little thing is found on the floor here."
>>131282
But how big is the backlash?
Besides the mail room - which is in the back, by the way, and Amber wouldn't have noticed it until later - there is a very curious addition. A small museum, which takes up part of the right rectangle, and the center square. A museum to the Tall Sails Shipping Company
>>131283
"I guess I won't be coming here any more" from a lot of people
Amber's eyes light and she enters the museum, her eyes scanning the room.
"I guess I won't be coming here any more" from a lot of people
Amber's eyes light and she enters the museum, her eyes scanning the room.
>>131284
A number of items, including a model of a sailing clipper, a paddle steamer, an enlarged black and white photograph of a harbor scene, and a model of this building itself. There is an older, much older grey stallion in a black suit who seems to be a curator
A number of items, including a model of a sailing clipper, a paddle steamer, an enlarged black and white photograph of a harbor scene, and a model of this building itself. There is an older, much older grey stallion in a black suit who seems to be a curator
>>131283
"Yes, much of what occured here prior to modern times happened in eighth century. After that it was not disturbed until middle of ninth century when colt named Alabaster got trapped in central chamber and was crushed to death by falling debris, then it was discovered by quarry workers when they blew hole into lower level of structure. One of them died bringing in dynamite."
"Yes, much of what occured here prior to modern times happened in eighth century. After that it was not disturbed until middle of ninth century when colt named Alabaster got trapped in central chamber and was crushed to death by falling debris, then it was discovered by quarry workers when they blew hole into lower level of structure. One of them died bringing in dynamite."
>>131286
He looks over to her
"Oh, I can tell you much, young filly. This here is the headquarters of the Tall Sails Shipping Company, or the 'Tall Sails' building. Back at the end of the first millennium, the company needed a new, prominent headquarters for its operations and offices, and so decided to build right here, on the old sight of the telegraph offices just three blocks west of Flash Prance Plaza in the commercial district, next to the Celestial Ocean Insurance building, another one of Baltimare's few true Skyscrapers. CEO Strong Winds II commissioned the project and hired Architect Trace Line for the project. The plan they went with was a 38 story 528 foot tall three pronged structure, designed to resemble the three masts of a sailing clipper. Construction started in the Thousandth year after banishment, and was completed 13 months later, almost record time. It is one of the few true Skyscrpapers to be built in Baltimare, it is the tallest, and it is the last. I suspect it will hold that title for a while. In a way its fair. It was the Tall Sails Company more than any one single company that built this city from a fishing village into the industrial heart and capitol of the Equestrian Southeast. And so it is the tallest here as well. We have a cafe, a post office, a security station, and infirmary, and thousands of square feet of office space."
>>131287
He is silent for a moment
"Aww..."
He jumps back in startlement, as Mala enters the light
He looks over to her
"Oh, I can tell you much, young filly. This here is the headquarters of the Tall Sails Shipping Company, or the 'Tall Sails' building. Back at the end of the first millennium, the company needed a new, prominent headquarters for its operations and offices, and so decided to build right here, on the old sight of the telegraph offices just three blocks west of Flash Prance Plaza in the commercial district, next to the Celestial Ocean Insurance building, another one of Baltimare's few true Skyscrapers. CEO Strong Winds II commissioned the project and hired Architect Trace Line for the project. The plan they went with was a 38 story 528 foot tall three pronged structure, designed to resemble the three masts of a sailing clipper. Construction started in the Thousandth year after banishment, and was completed 13 months later, almost record time. It is one of the few true Skyscrpapers to be built in Baltimare, it is the tallest, and it is the last. I suspect it will hold that title for a while. In a way its fair. It was the Tall Sails Company more than any one single company that built this city from a fishing village into the industrial heart and capitol of the Equestrian Southeast. And so it is the tallest here as well. We have a cafe, a post office, a security station, and infirmary, and thousands of square feet of office space."
>>131287
He is silent for a moment
"Aww..."
He jumps back in startlement, as Mala enters the light
>>131288
Silver looks over to Mala, then smiles to Extra Pair.
"Oh, sorry, I forgot to introduce you two. This is my partner, Mala."
Silver looks over to Mala, then smiles to Extra Pair.
"Oh, sorry, I forgot to introduce you two. This is my partner, Mala."
>>131289
He looks over to Mala. Mala stands there silently, but then raises his right paw and waves to Extra Pair
"Your... Partner?"
He looks over to Mala. Mala stands there silently, but then raises his right paw and waves to Extra Pair
"Your... Partner?"
>>131288
Rolling knowledge for historical significance the Tall Sails Shipping Company: [1d20+6 = 13]
"Wow! It's just like a palace, then."
Rolling knowledge for historical significance the Tall Sails Shipping Company: [1d20+6 = 13]
"Wow! It's just like a palace, then."
>>131291
She's heard of the name before, but really she doesn't know anything else about the company. Considering how out of sight, out of mind something like international freight is, just knowing the name might be a sign of prominence. Baltimare, as Amber knows, is a manufacturing center for the region built on a natural harbor.
"Like a Palace, you could say that. Home of a King that rules over an ocean. Several oceans, really. But it's a palace no would be usurper dare disturb. Many have come this way. The Storm King's airships, the demoguage from across the sea, the anarchists in their little uprising. A petty dictator, a silver tongue and unruly mob. None dare touch this building, even if they consider it a symbol of 'international capitalism' which they hate. Just the sight reminds them of their place. They know their betters."
>>131292
"Huh" He smiles nervously, then steps forward and puts up a hoof. There's an extended awkward scene as his hoof is left out. Finally, Mala leans forward and shakes his hoof with his own paw. Neither has a firm grip, and it falls quickly.
She's heard of the name before, but really she doesn't know anything else about the company. Considering how out of sight, out of mind something like international freight is, just knowing the name might be a sign of prominence. Baltimare, as Amber knows, is a manufacturing center for the region built on a natural harbor.
"Like a Palace, you could say that. Home of a King that rules over an ocean. Several oceans, really. But it's a palace no would be usurper dare disturb. Many have come this way. The Storm King's airships, the demoguage from across the sea, the anarchists in their little uprising. A petty dictator, a silver tongue and unruly mob. None dare touch this building, even if they consider it a symbol of 'international capitalism' which they hate. Just the sight reminds them of their place. They know their betters."
>>131292
"Huh" He smiles nervously, then steps forward and puts up a hoof. There's an extended awkward scene as his hoof is left out. Finally, Mala leans forward and shakes his hoof with his own paw. Neither has a firm grip, and it falls quickly.
>>131293
"Did you find where previous occupant was sealed away when your group looked through structure?"
"Did you find where previous occupant was sealed away when your group looked through structure?"
>>131293
"Wow…" She looks at the old harbor photo curiously as she asks, "I've never heard of this place before, I'm sorry to say. Who lives here?"
"Wow…" She looks at the old harbor photo curiously as she asks, "I've never heard of this place before, I'm sorry to say. Who lives here?"
>>131295
"Err...previous owner, I should say. Joseph Curwhinny. He was in stone casket in his sleeping quarters, here in upper level."
"Err...previous owner, I should say. Joseph Curwhinny. He was in stone casket in his sleeping quarters, here in upper level."
>>131296
"Oh, no one lives here. This is commercial offices for the Tail Sails Company, and a few shared with Eclipse Gulf Insurance."
The photo seems to show crates of what look like fruit, specifically bananas, in the process of being loaded by a crew of ponies and a zebra. In the center of the photograph is a wharf, with a number of crates in the fore, and two ponies and a zebra leaning on the crates, at least pretending to be resting, but one sneaks his eyes towards the camera, which must have been placed not many feet away. To the far right is the edge of warehouse. To the left is a plank that leads up into a freight ship that mostly out of the photo to the left, with the plan extending up. Two stallions carry crates on their back on the plank. Just as the photo seems to focus on the workers. so does the plaque underneath, upon skimming it, talk about the dockyard workers of Baltimare, unionization and so forth.
"Oh, no one lives here. This is commercial offices for the Tail Sails Company, and a few shared with Eclipse Gulf Insurance."
The photo seems to show crates of what look like fruit, specifically bananas, in the process of being loaded by a crew of ponies and a zebra. In the center of the photograph is a wharf, with a number of crates in the fore, and two ponies and a zebra leaning on the crates, at least pretending to be resting, but one sneaks his eyes towards the camera, which must have been placed not many feet away. To the far right is the edge of warehouse. To the left is a plank that leads up into a freight ship that mostly out of the photo to the left, with the plan extending up. Two stallions carry crates on their back on the plank. Just as the photo seems to focus on the workers. so does the plaque underneath, upon skimming it, talk about the dockyard workers of Baltimare, unionization and so forth.
>>131302
After a couple seconds of silence, Silver shrugs, seemingly accepting the question. He looks in the direction of the corridor leading out to where Curwhinny's farm once stood.
"Have you been out in that direction yet?"
After a couple seconds of silence, Silver shrugs, seemingly accepting the question. He looks in the direction of the corridor leading out to where Curwhinny's farm once stood.
"Have you been out in that direction yet?"
>>131302
"Wow! And how many ponies work on these ships? Are there any qualities you're looking for?"
Inb4 this starts playing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmGuy0jievs
"Wow! And how many ponies work on these ships? Are there any qualities you're looking for?"
Inb4 this starts playing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmGuy0jievs
>>131306
"The current record holder for an ocean liner is Queen Marery at just under 31 knots sustained across the ocean. Of course a freighter, or even a normal passenger liner, will be much slower. But even a big sized freighter will get 17 knots."
>>131307
"Well... briefly. Only the most surface level of examination, if you could even call it that. We'd like to map this all out and record all of the various objects on the floor."
"The current record holder for an ocean liner is Queen Marery at just under 31 knots sustained across the ocean. Of course a freighter, or even a normal passenger liner, will be much slower. But even a big sized freighter will get 17 knots."
>>131307
"Well... briefly. Only the most surface level of examination, if you could even call it that. We'd like to map this all out and record all of the various objects on the floor."
>>131308
"That's impressive. How can a company keep track of so many ships and all the customs of different lands?"
"That's impressive. How can a company keep track of so many ships and all the customs of different lands?"
>>131309
"We don't know. We were supposed to be on a dig in the Snake River valley, but this is a detour. It's something like a regulation that requires an archaeological examination before construction can begin on a sight, and we were hired to do that yesterday. The site owner wants it done as soon as possible. With how much... stuff is here, I can't imagine it all being done today. Then there's - there's dead bodies here, that'll have to be interred... I don't know."
>>131310
"Heh" He smiles. "It's all done here in this building. Offices for orders, hiring, harbor dues, shipping manifests... it's all here."
"We don't know. We were supposed to be on a dig in the Snake River valley, but this is a detour. It's something like a regulation that requires an archaeological examination before construction can begin on a sight, and we were hired to do that yesterday. The site owner wants it done as soon as possible. With how much... stuff is here, I can't imagine it all being done today. Then there's - there's dead bodies here, that'll have to be interred... I don't know."
>>131310
"Heh" He smiles. "It's all done here in this building. Offices for orders, hiring, harbor dues, shipping manifests... it's all here."
She blinks. "All these offices coordinate thousands of ponies around the world?" She lets out a whistle. "That's incredible…how did it all get started?"
>>131311
"Yes. Originally, I came here because I thought there were going to be ponies here helping with gathering and interring remains, but it seems that will not happen at least for little bit."
"Yes. Originally, I came here because I thought there were going to be ponies here helping with gathering and interring remains, but it seems that will not happen at least for little bit."
>>131312
He smiles
"Come over this way"
He walks towards the first display, a painting of a small shop
"It all started back in 687, in Fillydelphia, when an enterprising young stallion named Venturing Spirit realized there were a lot of good way up north that would sell very well if brought down south. So he collected enough money to buy a sailing cog, and sailed it up to the outpost up North. When he returned he made a lot of money on the resale, and after a couple more trips he bought a few more ships, transporting grain and timber from Saint Petershoof and Trottingham, and sending paper, whiskey and finished goods back up north. Legend has it he collected that money by being a great gambler at card games, while others say he was just good at convincing ponies to loan to him. I don't know if that's true, but he gambled right on starting that company. It was all operated out of here, in a little shop on Liberty Street in Fillydelphia. Called his company 'Celestial Shippings.'"
He places a hoof next to the painting, which is a realist style depiction of a two story brick building in a line of buildings
>>131313
"Well, for remains we mostly just need to know where they were and how they died. Preferably who they were, but they still have priority to be interred. There might be some help with that, I don't know."
He smiles
"Come over this way"
He walks towards the first display, a painting of a small shop
"It all started back in 687, in Fillydelphia, when an enterprising young stallion named Venturing Spirit realized there were a lot of good way up north that would sell very well if brought down south. So he collected enough money to buy a sailing cog, and sailed it up to the outpost up North. When he returned he made a lot of money on the resale, and after a couple more trips he bought a few more ships, transporting grain and timber from Saint Petershoof and Trottingham, and sending paper, whiskey and finished goods back up north. Legend has it he collected that money by being a great gambler at card games, while others say he was just good at convincing ponies to loan to him. I don't know if that's true, but he gambled right on starting that company. It was all operated out of here, in a little shop on Liberty Street in Fillydelphia. Called his company 'Celestial Shippings.'"
He places a hoof next to the painting, which is a realist style depiction of a two story brick building in a line of buildings
>>131313
"Well, for remains we mostly just need to know where they were and how they died. Preferably who they were, but they still have priority to be interred. There might be some help with that, I don't know."
>>131314
687?
I wish I had that much success with ponies loaning to me…
"He must have been a genius. Is that shop still around today?" She gestures to the painting.
687?
I wish I had that much success with ponies loaning to me…
"He must have been a genius. Is that shop still around today?" She gestures to the painting.
>>131315
Reee
>>131317
"Me? Oh, about 40 years. Started as a deckhoof on one of those old coal power steamers. Sometime after I got married I moved into a position with the offices."
>>131318
He is silent for a moment
"Huh.... Well, at least some of them were already dead before. At least it looks like that."
Reee
>>131317
"Me? Oh, about 40 years. Started as a deckhoof on one of those old coal power steamers. Sometime after I got married I moved into a position with the offices."
>>131318
He is silent for a moment
"Huh.... Well, at least some of them were already dead before. At least it looks like that."
>>131320
"Oh it could vary, Some were strange lands with stranger creatures, some were exotic, wondrous locales with fine, exotic mares, and some were kind of poor, or ugly. But most were a brief stop before being put back on a tin can and sent across the ocean to do it again. There's an adventure to it, even though it could be hard work on a ship, keeping the engine running. Scary too at times, there were a few storms and a wicked rogue wave. I certainly don't regret doing it, but I don't regret settling down either."
>>131321
He again is silent for a moment
"You know. I didn't think necromancers were real. You know, like one of those stories ponies make up. Like a, uh, a fairy tail."
"Oh it could vary, Some were strange lands with stranger creatures, some were exotic, wondrous locales with fine, exotic mares, and some were kind of poor, or ugly. But most were a brief stop before being put back on a tin can and sent across the ocean to do it again. There's an adventure to it, even though it could be hard work on a ship, keeping the engine running. Scary too at times, there were a few storms and a wicked rogue wave. I certainly don't regret doing it, but I don't regret settling down either."
>>131321
He again is silent for a moment
"You know. I didn't think necromancers were real. You know, like one of those stories ponies make up. Like a, uh, a fairy tail."
>>131322
The yellow pony grins. "That sounds like a fine adventure, but I think I'd rather stay on land. What did you do for office work?"
The yellow pony grins. "That sounds like a fine adventure, but I think I'd rather stay on land. What did you do for office work?"
>>131323
He nods
"Most of what I did was getting ships checked into customs, and something like a paraegal for contracts and working with trade laws."
He nods
"Most of what I did was getting ships checked into customs, and something like a paraegal for contracts and working with trade laws."
>>131322
Silver nods.
"Oh, they are real. Very rare in Equestria, but real. Almost all are in Dread League in Griffonia. I would not worry about, however."
Silver nods.
"Oh, they are real. Very rare in Equestria, but real. Almost all are in Dread League in Griffonia. I would not worry about, however."
>>131324
"I don't understand any of that, I'm afraid, but working here must've been swell if you've done it so long. How long have you taken care of this museum?"
I feel like I oughta watch the Three Stooges again to get a feel for the lingo used at the time
"I don't understand any of that, I'm afraid, but working here must've been swell if you've done it so long. How long have you taken care of this museum?"
I feel like I oughta watch the Three Stooges again to get a feel for the lingo used at the time
>>131329
"I wish you were featured more in history books. You've been bringing goods from all o'er the world to folks who want them, and risking your lives while doing it. Having such a grand palace is a nice perk though, even if nopony actually lives in it. I'm guessin' it's a bit like how regional palaces are used by parliaments now even if alicorns don't live in them anymore…"
Hopefully that last sentence is correct, if not then just leave it out
"I wish you were featured more in history books. You've been bringing goods from all o'er the world to folks who want them, and risking your lives while doing it. Having such a grand palace is a nice perk though, even if nopony actually lives in it. I'm guessin' it's a bit like how regional palaces are used by parliaments now even if alicorns don't live in them anymore…"
Hopefully that last sentence is correct, if not then just leave it out
>>131329
"Heh, I suppose we have that in common. Anyways, it was nice meeting you, Extra Pair. I have to go now, but I wish you and your team good luck in your future endeavors!"
"Heh, I suppose we have that in common. Anyways, it was nice meeting you, Extra Pair. I have to go now, but I wish you and your team good luck in your future endeavors!"
>>131330
"Well, I don't know aout Parliments and alicorns. But I can tell ou we've been the backbone of this city since Curwhinny moved operations here from Fillydelphia in back in 727, and it's going to remain that way for a long time. At least, I don't expect to see it fall."
>>131331
"Uh... Okay. Thanks, you too."
Mala steps forward a step towards Extra Pair. But then he follows Silver.
"Well, I don't know aout Parliments and alicorns. But I can tell ou we've been the backbone of this city since Curwhinny moved operations here from Fillydelphia in back in 727, and it's going to remain that way for a long time. At least, I don't expect to see it fall."
>>131331
"Uh... Okay. Thanks, you too."
Mala steps forward a step towards Extra Pair. But then he follows Silver.
Amber's ears, poking out of her green headscarf, twitch forward. "Who is this Curwhinny?"
>>131332
He heads back the way he came. Along the way, he pokes his head in the library where Faucet is.
"Oh, where are are you staying while you are here in Baltimare?"
He heads back the way he came. Along the way, he pokes his head in the library where Faucet is.
"Oh, where are are you staying while you are here in Baltimare?"
>>131334
She seems to be inspecting the desk itself, and has evidently gone through the drawers. She pokes her head up, with her eyes reflecting back in the light
"Well, I had hoped to stay with a pony I knew back in grad school... but we all are at the Old Springs hotel, about a dozen blocks down."
She seems to be inspecting the desk itself, and has evidently gone through the drawers. She pokes her head up, with her eyes reflecting back in the light
"Well, I had hoped to stay with a pony I knew back in grad school... but we all are at the Old Springs hotel, about a dozen blocks down."
>>131335
He smiles at her.
"I would like to get to know you better sometime before you left, if you wanted. You seem like very nice pony."
He smiles at her.
"I would like to get to know you better sometime before you left, if you wanted. You seem like very nice pony."
>>131334
Damn it
>>131333
"Well, you see, the Tall Sails company has been a public corporation for most of its existence. I own stock myself. But although it's a public corporation its also always been something of a family company, with members of the family being CEO, or on the board, or having their opinions taken into consideration. Most of them, anyways. And, well, Venture Spirit, who was the founder as I said, he had a son named Still Water, who expanded the company a little bit to running along more of the Equestrian East Coast. He even did a little bit all the way to the Deer Land, or to the Dominion. But he didn't have a son to leave the company to. But his daughter, she fancied an employee in contracts, and he was savy enough that, well, when Still Water died of illness back in 725 and his daughter inherited the company, he was left to manage it. Now, you say Venture was a genius. Curwhinny was a genius. He found shorter sailig routes, bought faster clippers, and was good at figuring out which markets were ripe with potential. It was Curwhinny, more than any single pony, who built the company up to its modern form. It was he who moved the center of operations to Baltimare - although the Fillydelphia brach has always been strong, even if the recession of 861 almost resulted in that branch being shut down. It was he who truly made the company intercontinental, sending Equestrian finished goods across the ocean, and returning with tea from Hindia, fine wares from the Kirin lands, cotton from Maregypt, incense from Saddle Arabia, wine from Aquelia and Wingbardy, Wool from the Dominion, and furniture from Olenia. It was his ships that carried the explorers, or some of the first Equestrian explorers at least to the tombs of the lands of Sonambula. And his ships, more than probably most of any one else at least, started to build up the Dominion. Well, it wasn't a Royal Domion yet, but the colony was turned from a simple land of exiles to a land producing wool, cotton, and indigo by his line of trade. He even established an office in New Manehattan."
He moves around the room
"Now if you look over here, you won't see a portrait of him, and the information on the plaque about him is only a few lines long. He was fairly controversial, even back then, for his participation in the slave trade, sending Macaws, Minotaurs, and Zebras supplied by Colthage to many places. But that was perfectly legal back then, at least in the places he traded to. And what else could he do? He was competing against places like Skyfall, which of course were doing the same. Hate it all you want, but the profits from that paid for the riskier ventures like buying the clippers that brought tea to Manehattan, the galleons that sent wheat to Las Pegasus, or immigrants to the colony. Bad weather, piracy, and especially seizure of ships in war could wipe out capital quickly. This was a risk that plagued him and all of his followers... it still does. He was also controversial for his eccentricities in his personal life - never mind that - and for alleged smuggling operations past certain tarriffs. Equestria's Griffonian colony wasn't cheap to run, and they didn't have an income tax to pay for a bloated budget, so they imposed tariffs on items exported - not just imported from but exported to the Dominion, and some ponies - who may or may not include Curwhinny tried to get past it by smuggling. An unjust law like that is no law anyways. The Dominion still has not forgiven its motherland for that series of laws, not like they ended.
Anyways, Woodhill died, as did all of her children, and so ended the line of Venturing Spirit. But Curwhinny married again, and had a son. This son was none other than Tall Sails, who may not have been a genius like his father was, but he grew the company over its long tenure,, and renamed the company after himself since the 'celestial shipping company's' name was partly tarnished by his father's trade in slaves, harsh hiring practices, and eccentricities when he stepped away from managing the company in his later years.
And now, many of the CEOs of the company have been the direct descendants of Tall Sails, including Strong Winds II, who commissioned this skyscraper."
>>131336
She blushes, and lowers herself behind the desk until part of her face is blocked. Mala walks around closer towards her.
"You - you do?"
Damn it
>>131333
"Well, you see, the Tall Sails company has been a public corporation for most of its existence. I own stock myself. But although it's a public corporation its also always been something of a family company, with members of the family being CEO, or on the board, or having their opinions taken into consideration. Most of them, anyways. And, well, Venture Spirit, who was the founder as I said, he had a son named Still Water, who expanded the company a little bit to running along more of the Equestrian East Coast. He even did a little bit all the way to the Deer Land, or to the Dominion. But he didn't have a son to leave the company to. But his daughter, she fancied an employee in contracts, and he was savy enough that, well, when Still Water died of illness back in 725 and his daughter inherited the company, he was left to manage it. Now, you say Venture was a genius. Curwhinny was a genius. He found shorter sailig routes, bought faster clippers, and was good at figuring out which markets were ripe with potential. It was Curwhinny, more than any single pony, who built the company up to its modern form. It was he who moved the center of operations to Baltimare - although the Fillydelphia brach has always been strong, even if the recession of 861 almost resulted in that branch being shut down. It was he who truly made the company intercontinental, sending Equestrian finished goods across the ocean, and returning with tea from Hindia, fine wares from the Kirin lands, cotton from Maregypt, incense from Saddle Arabia, wine from Aquelia and Wingbardy, Wool from the Dominion, and furniture from Olenia. It was his ships that carried the explorers, or some of the first Equestrian explorers at least to the tombs of the lands of Sonambula. And his ships, more than probably most of any one else at least, started to build up the Dominion. Well, it wasn't a Royal Domion yet, but the colony was turned from a simple land of exiles to a land producing wool, cotton, and indigo by his line of trade. He even established an office in New Manehattan."
He moves around the room
"Now if you look over here, you won't see a portrait of him, and the information on the plaque about him is only a few lines long. He was fairly controversial, even back then, for his participation in the slave trade, sending Macaws, Minotaurs, and Zebras supplied by Colthage to many places. But that was perfectly legal back then, at least in the places he traded to. And what else could he do? He was competing against places like Skyfall, which of course were doing the same. Hate it all you want, but the profits from that paid for the riskier ventures like buying the clippers that brought tea to Manehattan, the galleons that sent wheat to Las Pegasus, or immigrants to the colony. Bad weather, piracy, and especially seizure of ships in war could wipe out capital quickly. This was a risk that plagued him and all of his followers... it still does. He was also controversial for his eccentricities in his personal life - never mind that - and for alleged smuggling operations past certain tarriffs. Equestria's Griffonian colony wasn't cheap to run, and they didn't have an income tax to pay for a bloated budget, so they imposed tariffs on items exported - not just imported from but exported to the Dominion, and some ponies - who may or may not include Curwhinny tried to get past it by smuggling. An unjust law like that is no law anyways. The Dominion still has not forgiven its motherland for that series of laws, not like they ended.
Anyways, Woodhill died, as did all of her children, and so ended the line of Venturing Spirit. But Curwhinny married again, and had a son. This son was none other than Tall Sails, who may not have been a genius like his father was, but he grew the company over its long tenure,, and renamed the company after himself since the 'celestial shipping company's' name was partly tarnished by his father's trade in slaves, harsh hiring practices, and eccentricities when he stepped away from managing the company in his later years.
And now, many of the CEOs of the company have been the direct descendants of Tall Sails, including Strong Winds II, who commissioned this skyscraper."
>>131336
She blushes, and lowers herself behind the desk until part of her face is blocked. Mala walks around closer towards her.
"You - you do?"
>>131337
Silver nods, and beams a warm smile in her direction.
"Yes I would. What do you think? Would you like to later, after you are done here for day?"
Silver nods, and beams a warm smile in her direction.
"Yes I would. What do you think? Would you like to later, after you are done here for day?"
>>131338
She recovers, and stands up
"Uh... Sure. You seem to have quite a bit of familiarity with this place. I could learn quite a bit about it talking with you."
She recovers, and stands up
"Uh... Sure. You seem to have quite a bit of familiarity with this place. I could learn quite a bit about it talking with you."
1337 post
Also I hope Sven joins us
>>131337
Amber blinks and tries to pick apart this condensed information. Were shipping companies highly relevant to Equestrian politics abroad in the last 200 years?
Rolling Knowledge (History): [1d20+6 = 24]
Also I hope Sven joins us
>>131337
Amber blinks and tries to pick apart this condensed information. Were shipping companies highly relevant to Equestrian politics abroad in the last 200 years?
Rolling Knowledge (History): [1d20+6 = 24]
>>131348
A few kitties need cuddling
Prior to the Twilight administration, Equestria was non-interventionist or even politically isolationist, with only a limited concern for other nations. However - save for a few territorial disputes, wars of expansion, and raids against Equestria - when Equestria did concern itself with other nations, it usually involved ships. Piracy, the slave trade, seizure of ships, searches of ships, the sinking of ships, and the denial of trade by ships is connected with many of Equestria's wars and foreign policy over the past millennium. Tariffs are a whole other issue that have generated quite a bit of dispute internally and internationally, especially with New Mareland. As for what role the shipping companies themselves played, well, they seem to have been mostly involved only incidentally, at least in most cases.
A few kitties need cuddling
Prior to the Twilight administration, Equestria was non-interventionist or even politically isolationist, with only a limited concern for other nations. However - save for a few territorial disputes, wars of expansion, and raids against Equestria - when Equestria did concern itself with other nations, it usually involved ships. Piracy, the slave trade, seizure of ships, searches of ships, the sinking of ships, and the denial of trade by ships is connected with many of Equestria's wars and foreign policy over the past millennium. Tariffs are a whole other issue that have generated quite a bit of dispute internally and internationally, especially with New Mareland. As for what role the shipping companies themselves played, well, they seem to have been mostly involved only incidentally, at least in most cases.
>>131337
"That's a lot to take in! It does take a lot of talent to navigate such a stormy sea." She thinks for a moment. "How was Curwhinny so eccentric that the name of the whole company was changed?"
"That's a lot to take in! It does take a lot of talent to navigate such a stormy sea." She thinks for a moment. "How was Curwhinny so eccentric that the name of the whole company was changed?"
>>131351
"Well, the slave trade issue and some of his decisions regarding sailors' pay and discipline at sea were really probably the biggest causes of problems with reputation. But he'd go himself to the far north of Griffonia, or to Feathesia, or to Hyenia, and he'd send for mummies from Sonambula, or artifacts from the far north. He'd keep wild animals, or a few slaves as personal attendants. The Stallion just had a few interests, and ponies thought it was weird. But the worst of it was in 771, where there was a minor revolt in Baltimare against the new taxes. There were taxes on good transferred within Equestria, you see, like cane sugar down south, goods sent over to the Dominion, or whiskey. There was a belief he was using these taxes to keep out competition while, according to a rumor that has never in a quarter of a millennium been verified, he was smuggling goods himself. There was a clash with customs and violence against him. A few sailors he had fired or whatever, or had grudges joined in, and well, Curwhinny was killed. Unfortunately it wouldn't be the last time envy lead to violence."
"Well, the slave trade issue and some of his decisions regarding sailors' pay and discipline at sea were really probably the biggest causes of problems with reputation. But he'd go himself to the far north of Griffonia, or to Feathesia, or to Hyenia, and he'd send for mummies from Sonambula, or artifacts from the far north. He'd keep wild animals, or a few slaves as personal attendants. The Stallion just had a few interests, and ponies thought it was weird. But the worst of it was in 771, where there was a minor revolt in Baltimare against the new taxes. There were taxes on good transferred within Equestria, you see, like cane sugar down south, goods sent over to the Dominion, or whiskey. There was a belief he was using these taxes to keep out competition while, according to a rumor that has never in a quarter of a millennium been verified, he was smuggling goods himself. There was a clash with customs and violence against him. A few sailors he had fired or whatever, or had grudges joined in, and well, Curwhinny was killed. Unfortunately it wouldn't be the last time envy lead to violence."
Amber grimaces. "Oh dear, I'm sorry I asked." She looks around the museum. "Well, thank you very much for telling me all about Tall Sails."
>>131353
He looks at her strangely, holding a slight grimace. Then he responds to her
"Always a pleasure, telling the truth"
The museum has other details, such as concerning the items traded, facts about ships, facts about dockyard workers and conditions about sailing ships, facts about littoral paddle wheel steamers, and about unionization in Baltimare. Models include a sailing clipper, a bag of sugar, and a paddle steamer, as well as a big portrait of Tall Sails himself
He looks at her strangely, holding a slight grimace. Then he responds to her
"Always a pleasure, telling the truth"
The museum has other details, such as concerning the items traded, facts about ships, facts about dockyard workers and conditions about sailing ships, facts about littoral paddle wheel steamers, and about unionization in Baltimare. Models include a sailing clipper, a bag of sugar, and a paddle steamer, as well as a big portrait of Tall Sails himself
>>131354
Such topics are not terribly interesting to Amber. She says goodbye to the curator and heads back to the center of the building.
Going to call it here, busy day and it feels awkward without any other players
Such topics are not terribly interesting to Amber. She says goodbye to the curator and heads back to the center of the building.
Going to call it here, busy day and it feels awkward without any other players
>>131355
Aww, okay. I can try to get other players...
He nod to her, with an expression of confidence and strength
"Come again anytime."
Aww, okay. I can try to get other players...
He nod to her, with an expression of confidence and strength
"Come again anytime."
>>131363
...fuck. Forgot to resolve that. Uhh...
I suppose Silver first goes to Grant about the sword.
...fuck. Forgot to resolve that. Uhh...
I suppose Silver first goes to Grant about the sword.
>>131364
Silver is able to walk outside to find Dr. Grant marking things on a notebook, while Feather Duster has moved into the room inside of the catacombs next to the quarry, with an electric lantern
Silver is able to walk outside to find Dr. Grant marking things on a notebook, while Feather Duster has moved into the room inside of the catacombs next to the quarry, with an electric lantern
>>131366
"Part with the sword? Like this were some sort of pawn shop, where you just trot up and buy things?"
"Part with the sword? Like this were some sort of pawn shop, where you just trot up and buy things?"
>>131368
He pulls his lips back in a sort of laugh.
"Sir, this is a historical artifact that is irreplaceable."
He pulls his lips back in a sort of laugh.
"Sir, this is a historical artifact that is irreplaceable."
>>131369
"It is also completely functional sword that can be used to save lives and protect innocent ponies. It can not do that behind glass case in museum."
"It is also completely functional sword that can be used to save lives and protect innocent ponies. It can not do that behind glass case in museum."
Oy oy oy! Good goys play dnd instead of impregnating woman.
I will return soon I promise. Just been busy. I do want to continue with the cats.
I will return soon I promise. Just been busy. I do want to continue with the cats.
>>131371
"Whatever threatens innocent lives. Bandits, monsters...even dragons, if what Professor Faucet told me about this sword is true."
"Whatever threatens innocent lives. Bandits, monsters...even dragons, if what Professor Faucet told me about this sword is true."
>>131375
"This sword belongs to order of knights from 6th century called Husaks who originally came from Earth Pony homelands and migrated south to this region. They used these swords to protect migrants in this region, chiefly from dragons, which is why this greatsword has such heft to it. It was designed to protect ponies from dragons, and every other thread beneath them."
"This sword belongs to order of knights from 6th century called Husaks who originally came from Earth Pony homelands and migrated south to this region. They used these swords to protect migrants in this region, chiefly from dragons, which is why this greatsword has such heft to it. It was designed to protect ponies from dragons, and every other thread beneath them."
>>131379
"And that's another thing. Dragons are not 'monsters to be slain.' They are noble creatures in their own right, victimized by the loss of their territory over centuries, and by more direct subjugation and oppression recently. More weapons and more bloodshed are not going to help any of that at all."
"And that's another thing. Dragons are not 'monsters to be slain.' They are noble creatures in their own right, victimized by the loss of their territory over centuries, and by more direct subjugation and oppression recently. More weapons and more bloodshed are not going to help any of that at all."
>>131380
"That is entirely different discussion in its own right. Not considering dragons, there are many, persistant threats that still affect ponykind that can only be stopped by weapons and ponies willing wield them. We are standing in aftermath in one such threat. Just few neighborhoods over, I was part of group that, two days ago, stopped dangerous Maarist cult that was actively sacrificing victims to their 'god'. To our south, in Jungles your group is going to, there is much dangerous wildlife as well as potential bandits looking for plunder."
"That is entirely different discussion in its own right. Not considering dragons, there are many, persistant threats that still affect ponykind that can only be stopped by weapons and ponies willing wield them. We are standing in aftermath in one such threat. Just few neighborhoods over, I was part of group that, two days ago, stopped dangerous Maarist cult that was actively sacrificing victims to their 'god'. To our south, in Jungles your group is going to, there is much dangerous wildlife as well as potential bandits looking for plunder."
>>131381
"Maarists?" he looks confused for a moment
"First, it looks to me like an abundance of weapons has lead to more danger in the world. Do you really think multiplying the number of weapons will help end violence? It can only perpetuate it. But this isn't really a simple 'weapon.' This is a part of history, of this region and this particular site. If you think you need a weapon for... reasons, there are many of them already out there for you to use. What is that behind you? You already have a weapon? Well, there you go."
"Maarists?" he looks confused for a moment
"First, it looks to me like an abundance of weapons has lead to more danger in the world. Do you really think multiplying the number of weapons will help end violence? It can only perpetuate it. But this isn't really a simple 'weapon.' This is a part of history, of this region and this particular site. If you think you need a weapon for... reasons, there are many of them already out there for you to use. What is that behind you? You already have a weapon? Well, there you go."
>>131382
"This is not about stopping violence, or 'multiplying weapons'. This is about protecting others. And yes, it has historical value, but if you are going to display it in museum you could just as well use replica to show others what it looks like."
"This is not about stopping violence, or 'multiplying weapons'. This is about protecting others. And yes, it has historical value, but if you are going to display it in museum you could just as well use replica to show others what it looks like."
>>131383
"Is that the sort of world you want to live in, where there are no remnants or pieces of past eras, just cheap wood, cardboard and plastic cutouts and replicas? Would you feel the same way about the castles? Is that what you would want your children, or your grandchildren to see? How would we even make a replica? We don't have an exact version of that sword. It may well be unique? And furthermore, can you not find a meta replica yourself? That would be just as good for... whatever it is you are wanting to do."
"Is that the sort of world you want to live in, where there are no remnants or pieces of past eras, just cheap wood, cardboard and plastic cutouts and replicas? Would you feel the same way about the castles? Is that what you would want your children, or your grandchildren to see? How would we even make a replica? We don't have an exact version of that sword. It may well be unique? And furthermore, can you not find a meta replica yourself? That would be just as good for... whatever it is you are wanting to do."
File (): 0E76DE5E227712D5871A2A6CB4C8C29E-31903.jpg (31.2 KB, 236x285, 69F47F93-D0C8-45F5-A2F2-2A63F18AC707.jpeg)
Ponies?
>>131393
“They’ve leased out a few undies offices to Eclipse Gulf insurance. Aside from that, and the cafe, coffee shop on post office on the first floor, this is all Tall Sails”
“They’ve leased out a few undies offices to Eclipse Gulf insurance. Aside from that, and the cafe, coffee shop on post office on the first floor, this is all Tall Sails”
>>131394
Her eyes widen in surprise. "It has to be spectacular to work for a company with ships all o'er the world and a whole palace to itself. Like working in Canterlot, almost."
Her eyes widen in surprise. "It has to be spectacular to work for a company with ships all o'er the world and a whole palace to itself. Like working in Canterlot, almost."
>>131395
“I don’t know about Canterlot. Never been there. 9 to 5, they are pretty strict on how you can have your hair or dress, not a lot of smoke breaks. Pay is so so. Very anti-union. It’s air conditioned though.”
“I don’t know about Canterlot. Never been there. 9 to 5, they are pretty strict on how you can have your hair or dress, not a lot of smoke breaks. Pay is so so. Very anti-union. It’s air conditioned though.”
>>131396
That's pretty matter of fact…
"Um, okay. Have a nice day!"
Amber starts to leave the building.
That's pretty matter of fact…
"Um, okay. Have a nice day!"
Amber starts to leave the building.
>>131397
>too matter of fact
Well that’s not encouraging...
She nods, and looks back down to whatever she was doing, seems like reading a magazine behind a raised portion of the counter.
Amber thus leaves the building, with no impediment aside from a revolving door blocking her
https://youtu.be/3bQnxlHZsjY
>too matter of fact
Well that’s not encouraging...
She nods, and looks back down to whatever she was doing, seems like reading a magazine behind a raised portion of the counter.
Amber thus leaves the building, with no impediment aside from a revolving door blocking her
https://youtu.be/3bQnxlHZsjY
>>131398
Amber has some trouble leaving through the revolving door. She spins around it a few times, attracting perplexed gazes from nearby ponies. However, she eventually succeeds and as her dizziness fades she tries to think about where she ought to go.
Up to you, GM
Amber has some trouble leaving through the revolving door. She spins around it a few times, attracting perplexed gazes from nearby ponies. However, she eventually succeeds and as her dizziness fades she tries to think about where she ought to go.
Up to you, GM
>>131399
And so Amber finds herself back on the street. She is, as Jean Paul Sartre said, “condemned to freedom,” with perhaps a world of possible directions before her, not imposing identity or purpose on her, but rather forcing her to, through her own choices, create it.
And so Amber finds herself back on the street. She is, as Jean Paul Sartre said, “condemned to freedom,” with perhaps a world of possible directions before her, not imposing identity or purpose on her, but rather forcing her to, through her own choices, create it.
Sorry GM, but it's just more fun when it's multiplayer
>>131384
Silver's expression goes blank for a few seconds as he thinks on a few points to argue. One comes up.
"You do not own this sword."
Silver's expression goes blank for a few seconds as he thinks on a few points to argue. One comes up.
"You do not own this sword."
>>131401
Don’t give up just yet. Our GM is very good at coming up with fun things to do if you give him a chance.
Don’t give up just yet. Our GM is very good at coming up with fun things to do if you give him a chance.
>>131403
“Well, we found it. So we own it, yes. And if we didn’t, well, it belongs to the regional government. Either way, it should go to the public as a part of history.”
“Well, we found it. So we own it, yes. And if we didn’t, well, it belongs to the regional government. Either way, it should go to the public as a part of history.”
>>131401
>>131406
Are you saying you want you character to meet up with another, or...
This area has several more factories, or at least what seem to be factories. They are larger brick building with fewer windows, and sometimes, but not always, smoke stacks. There are more individual buildings, or buildings separated from each other by more than just the road blocks. Dark brick buildings dominate, at is seems to be mostly apartment buildings.
>>131406
Are you saying you want you character to meet up with another, or...
This area has several more factories, or at least what seem to be factories. They are larger brick building with fewer windows, and sometimes, but not always, smoke stacks. There are more individual buildings, or buildings separated from each other by more than just the road blocks. Dark brick buildings dominate, at is seems to be mostly apartment buildings.
>>131405
"No, you do not. By that logic, I would be owner since it was my actions that led to that knight's demise."
"No, you do not. By that logic, I would be owner since it was my actions that led to that knight's demise."
File (): B5E3FC41689AE2DE76647F5282FF21F0-107735.png (105.2 KB, 508x682, 6C1955F1-4BB8-42A0-B4E7-817A1F88309F.png)
Anypony here?
File (): C8AA56C79B5F30BBE04EB72BEE134D1A-32999.png (32.2 KB, 203x110, better.png)
>>131426
He looks... unconvinced
Feather Duster, who so far has been silent, now adds in a few words of his own
“What’s wrong with a rifle?”
He looks... unconvinced
Feather Duster, who so far has been silent, now adds in a few words of his own
“What’s wrong with a rifle?”
>>131427
Silver looks at him, and actually smiles.
"Nothing at all. I am not so bad with rifle myself."
He pats his greatsword.
"It is just not what I have trained with since I was foal."
Silver looks at him, and actually smiles.
"Nothing at all. I am not so bad with rifle myself."
He pats his greatsword.
"It is just not what I have trained with since I was foal."
>>131429
He looks to the sword in question.
"I have done more helping or protecting ponies - people - in past week than I have in very long time. My companion, Mala, could attest to that, I hope. And it has nearly cost me my life more than once. Perhaps it is selfish of me, but if I hope to save any more, I will need to be stronger, be better...and have better equipment."
He looks to the sword in question.
"I have done more helping or protecting ponies - people - in past week than I have in very long time. My companion, Mala, could attest to that, I hope. And it has nearly cost me my life more than once. Perhaps it is selfish of me, but if I hope to save any more, I will need to be stronger, be better...and have better equipment."
>>131430
“Well, I can’t really say myself. I’ve never picked up a rifle or a sword. When I got my draft notice, I went to graduate school for the deferment.”
“Well, I can’t really say myself. I’ve never picked up a rifle or a sword. When I got my draft notice, I went to graduate school for the deferment.”
>>131431
"Ah. You are heading to jungles, yes? It might be good idea to practice little bit. Self-defense is always useful skill to have."
"Ah. You are heading to jungles, yes? It might be good idea to practice little bit. Self-defense is always useful skill to have."
>>131432
Feather Duster looks to be the most physically capable of all of the ponies there, being the largest and the most muscular appearing, albeit not by a very wide margin
“Nah, it’ll be fine. The Equestrian military came in and cleared the jungles maybe a year ago.”
Feather Duster looks to be the most physically capable of all of the ponies there, being the largest and the most muscular appearing, albeit not by a very wide margin
“Nah, it’ll be fine. The Equestrian military came in and cleared the jungles maybe a year ago.”
>>131433
He shrugs, and accepts the answer.
"Alright, it is your choice. I would still recommend it, however."
He shrugs, and accepts the answer.
"Alright, it is your choice. I would still recommend it, however."
>>131434
Feather Duster just gives an “eh..” and moves ever so slightly back, turning his attention to Mala. It’s Dr. Grant who announces “Oh, Dr. Faucet, you’re here now.” The small, yellow pony appears through the hole in the granite wall, with an almost curious expression
Feather Duster just gives an “eh..” and moves ever so slightly back, turning his attention to Mala. It’s Dr. Grant who announces “Oh, Dr. Faucet, you’re here now.” The small, yellow pony appears through the hole in the granite wall, with an almost curious expression
>>131436
She looks back to Silver and makes eye contact. She retains a more buyer so expression.
“Dr. Faucet? Did you examine the artifact?”
”There were a few lone pages. I believe belonging to seven books, with a very high rate of damage. Other books were re-“
“I mean the sword this gentlepony wants to claim.”
”Oh. Yes. It has the insignia of the Order of Saint George. Judging by the insignia I would estimate an origin between the fifth and seventh centuries. Swords are not my area of expertise so I can’t say much else professionally. But the thing is do shinny it must be either magic, ceremonial, or a modern forgery or replica.”
“So you would say it’s a significant artifact for the time period?”
”Well, it’s an insight into the weaponry and insignia of the militant orders of the Equestrian church at the time. It’s very expensive to produce, likely infused with magic. It would have been hooves down from generation to generation rather than replaced. Probably only a few hundred were ever made in Southeast Equestria. Each one could be unique in some regard, like insignia Maybe some more in Northern Equestria.”
“And so these are very rare?”
”They are shinny enough that no one throws them away once they have one. There a few on display, but I bet there are many in the basements of aristocratic families in Canterlot or elsewhere. I
There’s probably a dozen of these kinds of swords that are lying around in dragon hordes, in the Badlands”
She looks back to Silver and makes eye contact. She retains a more buyer so expression.
“Dr. Faucet? Did you examine the artifact?”
”There were a few lone pages. I believe belonging to seven books, with a very high rate of damage. Other books were re-“
“I mean the sword this gentlepony wants to claim.”
”Oh. Yes. It has the insignia of the Order of Saint George. Judging by the insignia I would estimate an origin between the fifth and seventh centuries. Swords are not my area of expertise so I can’t say much else professionally. But the thing is do shinny it must be either magic, ceremonial, or a modern forgery or replica.”
“So you would say it’s a significant artifact for the time period?”
”Well, it’s an insight into the weaponry and insignia of the militant orders of the Equestrian church at the time. It’s very expensive to produce, likely infused with magic. It would have been hooves down from generation to generation rather than replaced. Probably only a few hundred were ever made in Southeast Equestria. Each one could be unique in some regard, like insignia Maybe some more in Northern Equestria.”
“And so these are very rare?”
”They are shinny enough that no one throws them away once they have one. There a few on display, but I bet there are many in the basements of aristocratic families in Canterlot or elsewhere. I
There’s probably a dozen of these kinds of swords that are lying around in dragon hordes, in the Badlands”
>>131441
"I dispatched ghast who had it. I also gave all information I had on this place to Peer Review, who denied me payment."
"I dispatched ghast who had it. I also gave all information I had on this place to Peer Review, who denied me payment."
>>131442
“I don’t know what deals you made with Peer Review. Bring that up with him. But this is still an archeological sure, and you can’t just take souvenirs.”
“I don’t know what deals you made with Peer Review. Bring that up with him. But this is still an archeological sure, and you can’t just take souvenirs.”
I doubt I can make it any time this week.
is mlemmed in addition
>>131444
"Well, this place could certainly qualify!" He seems a bit riled
"But either way, a sword like this belongs on display"
>>131425
I mean... it's been a comparatively busy last few days, so thinking of new things to place in the world has been a bit meh. I don't have any landmarks in that area in mind aside from maybe two specific factories and a refinery, if those would even be considered interesting. But I also don't want there to suddenly be something interesting in that area later and everyone is left with the question "why wasn't that mentioned before?" With the Tall Sails building at least it's very briefly referenced as existing in Adrian Cloudbuster and Fantasy Play's first view of Baltimare, so when I decided "Baltimare needs a landmark visible anywhere" it at least had been already kind of set up
"Well, this place could certainly qualify!" He seems a bit riled
"But either way, a sword like this belongs on display"
>>131425
I mean... it's been a comparatively busy last few days, so thinking of new things to place in the world has been a bit meh. I don't have any landmarks in that area in mind aside from maybe two specific factories and a refinery, if those would even be considered interesting. But I also don't want there to suddenly be something interesting in that area later and everyone is left with the question "why wasn't that mentioned before?" With the Tall Sails building at least it's very briefly referenced as existing in Adrian Cloudbuster and Fantasy Play's first view of Baltimare, so when I decided "Baltimare needs a landmark visible anywhere" it at least had been already kind of set up
>>131450
Understandable. I should realize that this is Dungeons and Dragons, not City Tourist Simulator 2020™
I have an important paper to write regardless so it's probably best I don't play for the next few days.
Understandable. I should realize that this is Dungeons and Dragons, not City Tourist Simulator 2020™
I have an important paper to write regardless so it's probably best I don't play for the next few days.
>>131454
"Well, we'll see if he thinks any differently. This is an important part of the dig, and it belongs to the World as a collective part of its history. I know where I stand, as the second-most senior faculty member present, but he has final say. I doubt he'll think any differently."
He looks around, though his target is a bit unclear
"Come, ponies."
Faucet jumps out into the light, her long, wrapped tail behind her. Feather Duster turns and starts his own way a couple seconds later
"Well, we'll see if he thinks any differently. This is an important part of the dig, and it belongs to the World as a collective part of its history. I know where I stand, as the second-most senior faculty member present, but he has final say. I doubt he'll think any differently."
He looks around, though his target is a bit unclear
"Come, ponies."
Faucet jumps out into the light, her long, wrapped tail behind her. Feather Duster turns and starts his own way a couple seconds later
>>131455
Silver goes up to him once he arrives.
"I believe I have found something that would serve as compensation."
Silver goes up to him once he arrives.
"I believe I have found something that would serve as compensation."
>>131456
Peer Review is looking down at, of course, the letters, along with Loans, who is right next to him. Grant walks up with determination, while Faucet slinks behind him, and Feather Duster walks up with a smile on his face. Mala trails behind Silver, walking beside and behind Silver in a "blind spot" just beyond his peripheral vision
Peer Review looks up at Silver, through his glasses
"What do you mean?"
Grant speaks
"We found a sword. Very ornate, rather rare, belonging to the Order of Saint George, I think it was, though Dr. Faucet could tell you more. This pony here wants to take it. As a weapon, apparently."
Peer Review is looking down at, of course, the letters, along with Loans, who is right next to him. Grant walks up with determination, while Faucet slinks behind him, and Feather Duster walks up with a smile on his face. Mala trails behind Silver, walking beside and behind Silver in a "blind spot" just beyond his peripheral vision
Peer Review looks up at Silver, through his glasses
"What do you mean?"
Grant speaks
"We found a sword. Very ornate, rather rare, belonging to the Order of Saint George, I think it was, though Dr. Faucet could tell you more. This pony here wants to take it. As a weapon, apparently."
>>131457
Silver nods.
"It is not sword designed to be put up on display, but rather to protect others. And I am one of few people who know how to properly wield it."
Silver nods.
"It is not sword designed to be put up on display, but rather to protect others. And I am one of few people who know how to properly wield it."
>>131458
Peer Review Answers
"Mr.... Silver? Did you say your name was? All pieces of a dig site are clues to what happened before. They are like puzzle pieces to the past, and it's harder to tell what was there without them. They are not simple tools. I assure you there are plenty of those out there."
Peer Review Answers
"Mr.... Silver? Did you say your name was? All pieces of a dig site are clues to what happened before. They are like puzzle pieces to the past, and it's harder to tell what was there without them. They are not simple tools. I assure you there are plenty of those out there."
>>131459
Silver looks between them both.
"...so, you would both place putting it on display like trinket over having it be used as it was intended to protect innocent lives?"
Silver looks between them both.
"...so, you would both place putting it on display like trinket over having it be used as it was intended to protect innocent lives?"
>>131460
Peer Review
"There are weapons of war produced everyday, and en masse. What they are not making are more of are relics like these. Putting them on display would serve well to illustrate to the creatures of the world that the horrors of the present are not unique to our age, but were endemic in the Monarchist, older era just as surely. Lest they think the past should be any guide to our future."
Peer Review
"There are weapons of war produced everyday, and en masse. What they are not making are more of are relics like these. Putting them on display would serve well to illustrate to the creatures of the world that the horrors of the present are not unique to our age, but were endemic in the Monarchist, older era just as surely. Lest they think the past should be any guide to our future."
[1d20-1 = 11]
>>131461
Silver closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and looks again at Peer Review while trying to be as persuasive as he can.
Diplomacy: "You said you do not get much money for your work, yes? And before you were sidetracked to here, your group was to explore Tenochitlan? Perhaps we can come to agreement. I can give you extra Bits to fund this expedition in exchange for you letting me have sword unmolested. With those Bits, you could find far more artifacts of significantly more historical value than this sword."
>>131461
Silver closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and looks again at Peer Review while trying to be as persuasive as he can.
Diplomacy: "You said you do not get much money for your work, yes? And before you were sidetracked to here, your group was to explore Tenochitlan? Perhaps we can come to agreement. I can give you extra Bits to fund this expedition in exchange for you letting me have sword unmolested. With those Bits, you could find far more artifacts of significantly more historical value than this sword."
>>131462
He moves his eyebrows together
"We do not sell artifacts, they are donated to museums, remain at the university for study, or other similar fates. Donations are appreciated, to be sure, but we can't sell artifacts."
He moves his eyebrows together
"We do not sell artifacts, they are donated to museums, remain at the university for study, or other similar fates. Donations are appreciated, to be sure, but we can't sell artifacts."
>>131464
"I was just presented with this... quandary. I don't know exactly what this thing is, I couldn't even guess it's worth if it were ever sold, but I suspect this is a find from this area. And I wish to maintain the integrity of the site as far as possible"
"I was just presented with this... quandary. I don't know exactly what this thing is, I couldn't even guess it's worth if it were ever sold, but I suspect this is a find from this area. And I wish to maintain the integrity of the site as far as possible"
>>131465
"Even though you owe me for willingly providing letters to you that spell out entire history of this location, letters I risked life and limb for to acquire, without which you never would have discovered anything about site's history?"
"Even though you owe me for willingly providing letters to you that spell out entire history of this location, letters I risked life and limb for to acquire, without which you never would have discovered anything about site's history?"
>>131466
Peer Review:
"Well... I wouldn't, I wouldn't, I wouldn't say it like that, no, we could certainly find - What is it you want, exactly?"
Peer Review:
"Well... I wouldn't, I wouldn't, I wouldn't say it like that, no, we could certainly find - What is it you want, exactly?"
>>131467
Silver mutters something under his breath that to a keen listener sounds like an apology before looking at Peer Review with stern eyes.
"I want compensated for my work, like any other employee or contractor. And if I cannot have compensation, then I do not see why you are entitled to fruit of my labor."
Silver mutters something under his breath that to a keen listener sounds like an apology before looking at Peer Review with stern eyes.
"I want compensated for my work, like any other employee or contractor. And if I cannot have compensation, then I do not see why you are entitled to fruit of my labor."
>>131468
Pear Faucet mumbles something herself, while Mala, Feather Duster, and Mr. Loans listen. Dr. Grant looks as if he wishes to join the discussion, but does not interrupt.
Peer Review looks back
"Well... I would implore you to think of the common good in brining this pieces of history to light."
Pear Faucet mumbles something herself, while Mala, Feather Duster, and Mr. Loans listen. Dr. Grant looks as if he wishes to join the discussion, but does not interrupt.
Peer Review looks back
"Well... I would implore you to think of the common good in brining this pieces of history to light."
>>131469
"And I would implore you to consider that this is my livelihood. Do you ask taxi driver to give you ride and then not pay him 'for common good'? Do you stay at hotel and not pay owner 'for common good'? Is it in interest of common good to deny hard working pony compensation they deserve for work they do?"
"And I would implore you to consider that this is my livelihood. Do you ask taxi driver to give you ride and then not pay him 'for common good'? Do you stay at hotel and not pay owner 'for common good'? Is it in interest of common good to deny hard working pony compensation they deserve for work they do?"
>>131470
He blinks, and has a very serious expression. Grant drags his right forehoof along the ground. Feather Duster has a wide smile, Mr Loans winces moves his head about uneasily, Mala comes forward next to Silver, and Pear hangs back silently.
Peer Review:
"What is your bargain?"
He blinks, and has a very serious expression. Grant drags his right forehoof along the ground. Feather Duster has a wide smile, Mr Loans winces moves his head about uneasily, Mala comes forward next to Silver, and Pear hangs back silently.
Peer Review:
"What is your bargain?"
>>131470
Silver matches his expression, and trots forward to the table to be within reach of the letters.
"When I trot away from here, it will either be with sword, or it will be with letters. It is your choice, I can offer to give these letters to Tall Sails Company in exchange for payment should you so choose."
Silver matches his expression, and trots forward to the table to be within reach of the letters.
"When I trot away from here, it will either be with sword, or it will be with letters. It is your choice, I can offer to give these letters to Tall Sails Company in exchange for payment should you so choose."
>>131472
"Alright. Fine. We surrender any claim we may have to that shinny sword. That doesn't necessarily make it yours, because if it actually belongs to the Equestrian Church, or to the Successors of the Equestrian Monarchy, we can do nothing about that. But leaving these letters with us would go a great way to deciphering the history of this region."
Grant:
"You can't leave it! That's part of the site"
Peer Review raises a foreleg, and a hoof, in the direction of Dr. Grant. After a moment, Dr. Grant stops, and stops talking. After a brief glance to Grant, Peer Review returns to staring at Silver. His hoof goes down with an almost slam on top of the letters. Mala's ears go up, and he moves further forward, besides Silver. This seems to concern Mr. Loans, who moves back half a step, though a table remains between Mala and Silver and Peer Review and Loans.
"Alright. Fine. We surrender any claim we may have to that shinny sword. That doesn't necessarily make it yours, because if it actually belongs to the Equestrian Church, or to the Successors of the Equestrian Monarchy, we can do nothing about that. But leaving these letters with us would go a great way to deciphering the history of this region."
Grant:
"You can't leave it! That's part of the site"
Peer Review raises a foreleg, and a hoof, in the direction of Dr. Grant. After a moment, Dr. Grant stops, and stops talking. After a brief glance to Grant, Peer Review returns to staring at Silver. His hoof goes down with an almost slam on top of the letters. Mala's ears go up, and he moves further forward, besides Silver. This seems to concern Mr. Loans, who moves back half a step, though a table remains between Mala and Silver and Peer Review and Loans.
>>131473
Silver places a foreleg in front of Mala to keep him back, looks to Peer Review, and gives him a single, firm nod.
"Very well. I am glad we have come to understanding, and I hope you have good day."
He turns to leave the tent with the sword in his possession, motioning for Mala to follow. Pear Faucet sees him flash a brief, remorseful, apologetic look in her direction before he returns to looking forward sternly as he exits.
Silver places a foreleg in front of Mala to keep him back, looks to Peer Review, and gives him a single, firm nod.
"Very well. I am glad we have come to understanding, and I hope you have good day."
He turns to leave the tent with the sword in his possession, motioning for Mala to follow. Pear Faucet sees him flash a brief, remorseful, apologetic look in her direction before he returns to looking forward sternly as he exits.
>>131474
"And to you too" Peer Review says
And so, Silver walks away with the Saint George's Greatsword, but without the letters. Mala rushes to follow him, then evidently stops and turns around, then comes back following Silver.
"And to you too" Peer Review says
And so, Silver walks away with the Saint George's Greatsword, but without the letters. Mala rushes to follow him, then evidently stops and turns around, then comes back following Silver.
>>131475
Silver remains like he is until they leave the site of the quarry. There on the road out of the area, Mala sees him stop in front of him, shake a little, put a hoof to his forehead, and faint.
Silver remains like he is until they leave the site of the quarry. There on the road out of the area, Mala sees him stop in front of him, shake a little, put a hoof to his forehead, and faint.
>>131479
"Wha...yes, yes, I am fine, just...help me up, please."
He holds a hoof up to request assistance.
"Wha...yes, yes, I am fine, just...help me up, please."
He holds a hoof up to request assistance.
>>131480
Mala extends a paw to help Silver, and Silver can feel the soft pads, fluffy top, and trimmed nails. He pulls up Silver with what seems like little effort.
Mala extends a paw to help Silver, and Silver can feel the soft pads, fluffy top, and trimmed nails. He pulls up Silver with what seems like little effort.
>>131481
He steadies himself against Mala's body for a short time after getting up. He looks gratefully.
"I am sorry, I just have not been like that since before I retired."
He levitates the sword he acquired before the pair.
"But...it was worth it."
He steadies himself against Mala's body for a short time after getting up. He looks gratefully.
"I am sorry, I just have not been like that since before I retired."
He levitates the sword he acquired before the pair.
"But...it was worth it."
>>131482
"That is a nice sword" Mala says, looking at it, before diverting his eyes away. "You didn't even have to fight them over it." Then he turns his head "What do you mean you haven't 'been like that'?"
"That is a nice sword" Mala says, looking at it, before diverting his eyes away. "You didn't even have to fight them over it." Then he turns his head "What do you mean you haven't 'been like that'?"
>>131483
"As adventurer...there will be times when you will encounter person who will be unreasonable, or who just otherwise tries to take advantage of you when you request compensation. When that happens, you put your hoof down - or paw, in your case - even if it means not following tenants of Harmony by being selfish or unkind. I just have not been like that since I retired from adventuring, I had almost forgotten about it."
He smiles at Mala.
"I suppose since I have come out of retirement, I will have to relearn it, yes?"
"As adventurer...there will be times when you will encounter person who will be unreasonable, or who just otherwise tries to take advantage of you when you request compensation. When that happens, you put your hoof down - or paw, in your case - even if it means not following tenants of Harmony by being selfish or unkind. I just have not been like that since I retired from adventuring, I had almost forgotten about it."
He smiles at Mala.
"I suppose since I have come out of retirement, I will have to relearn it, yes?"
>>131484
"Those ponies, the black-winged one had a small rake and a gardening shovel, but none of them had any guns, any machettes, or any other weapons I could see. It looks like we could have taken these things. I hope I did my part in intimidating them."
He kind of smiles back
"I like that about you. You are old, but you choose to live a second life, like you are young again. Many creatures do not even get to live a first life, when they are young. They are denied. But you take a second one."
"Those ponies, the black-winged one had a small rake and a gardening shovel, but none of them had any guns, any machettes, or any other weapons I could see. It looks like we could have taken these things. I hope I did my part in intimidating them."
He kind of smiles back
"I like that about you. You are old, but you choose to live a second life, like you are young again. Many creatures do not even get to live a first life, when they are young. They are denied. But you take a second one."
>>131485
"Hmm, perhaps we could have. But there are ways to get what you want without violence, as you saw."
He pets Mala around the ears.
"Hmm, perhaps we could have. But there are ways to get what you want without violence, as you saw."
He pets Mala around the ears.
>>131486
Mala smiles and closes his eyes, as Silver pets around Mala's diamond shaped ears
"Like the threat of violence?"
Mala smiles and closes his eyes, as Silver pets around Mala's diamond shaped ears
"Like the threat of violence?"
>>131487
"Not exactly. Threats only have power when backed by promise of action. It is more by leveraging what other party wants against what you want that I refer to. If they will not provide what you want, then you will not provide what they want. It is simple as that. Peer Review wanted letters, and I wanted sword."
"Not exactly. Threats only have power when backed by promise of action. It is more by leveraging what other party wants against what you want that I refer to. If they will not provide what you want, then you will not provide what they want. It is simple as that. Peer Review wanted letters, and I wanted sword."
>>131488
"Well, I'm not particularly smart, or likeable, or strong willed, so I'll let you deal with that. But ponies are afraid of me, and I really can crack bone if you need me too. So I am here if you need any of that"
He sits down
"Well, I'm not particularly smart, or likeable, or strong willed, so I'll let you deal with that. But ponies are afraid of me, and I really can crack bone if you need me too. So I am here if you need any of that"
He sits down
>>131489
He chuckles and smiles at him.
"I am not so smart myself, but I appreciate that, Mala. I am glad to have you with me."
He seems to stop and think for a moment before he takes his own sheathed greatsword off of his body. He looks down at it.
"This sword was forged by my father when I turned 18 and decided to leave to become adventurer. He gave it to me, to start me off well on my new life, and I have had it ever since."
He looks up at Mala, and holds his greatsword out to him.
"And now...I want you to have it, to start you off well on your own new life as adventurer."
He chuckles and smiles at him.
"I am not so smart myself, but I appreciate that, Mala. I am glad to have you with me."
He seems to stop and think for a moment before he takes his own sheathed greatsword off of his body. He looks down at it.
"This sword was forged by my father when I turned 18 and decided to leave to become adventurer. He gave it to me, to start me off well on my new life, and I have had it ever since."
He looks up at Mala, and holds his greatsword out to him.
"And now...I want you to have it, to start you off well on your own new life as adventurer."
>>131490
He opens his jaw partly, showing his array of sharp and jagged teeth. His eyes grow big, not that it's easy to see through his pupils. His ears turn and lock onto Silver
"You really mean it?"
He opens his jaw partly, showing his array of sharp and jagged teeth. His eyes grow big, not that it's easy to see through his pupils. His ears turn and lock onto Silver
"You really mean it?"
>>131493
Silver smiles, and lets Mala take the sword.
"I can also show you how to wield this sword sometime, if you ever decided to use it."
Silver smiles, and lets Mala take the sword.
"I can also show you how to wield this sword sometime, if you ever decided to use it."
>>131494
He removes the sword from his mouth, and places it in a holding position in his paw
"I think I got this"
He reaches for his belt with his mouth, and pulls out a mouth guard, which he awkwardly moves around in his mouth. Then he takes the great sword, places it in his mouth, and swings it around, and stabs it in a few moves. It seems he has at least some familiarity with how to use swords, even if the larger sized sword is newer to him
He removes the sword from his mouth, and places it in a holding position in his paw
"I think I got this"
He reaches for his belt with his mouth, and pulls out a mouth guard, which he awkwardly moves around in his mouth. Then he takes the great sword, places it in his mouth, and swings it around, and stabs it in a few moves. It seems he has at least some familiarity with how to use swords, even if the larger sized sword is newer to him
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>>131500
Been reading about planes and am lowkey obsessed with planewalking. I played a campaign of Conquest of Elysium 4 dedicated to exploring the different planes, though I couldn't reach the Elemental Planes as infantry and elemental units (only ones Warlocks can make) are nigh-useless at fighting earth gateways.
Been reading about planes and am lowkey obsessed with planewalking. I played a campaign of Conquest of Elysium 4 dedicated to exploring the different planes, though I couldn't reach the Elemental Planes as infantry and elemental units (only ones Warlocks can make) are nigh-useless at fighting earth gateways.
>>131501
I am extremely reticent to show anything other than the direct material plane, and I think I should justify that hesitation.
It links into my theory on fantasy and magic and a common failing of the fantasy and sci fi genres. To me, an experience or a part of the world needs to fall into one of two categories, or else be boring and uninteresting. The first is that portion of the mundane world that can be studied by the natural sciences and thus comprehended by human reason. There's a beauty to the logic of it. The other is those experiences that are so far beyond the natural that they can be called mystical, and incite emotions of awe or terror as they defy human comprehension. Outside of these two extremes, experiences become familiar and mundane while not having a logical substance to it that the brain can ruminate on. This is my problem with many depictions of magic and fantasy. Often, the point of view character is familiar with the magic and [workings of the world, and thus cannot and will not react with the wonder or terror that a human of our world would, while the same magic and workings are obscure to the reader and thus do not allow the leader to understand and appreciate the intimacies of the internal logic on a rational level. If the workings of the world are unfamiliar to both the point of view character and the reader, the reader and character may both respond with awe or terror. If the workings of the world are well understood by the reader, regardless of the character's understanding, then there is an opportunity for the reader to rationally appreciate the internal workings of the world and their beauty. Outside of maybe comedy and dramatic reveals, I think it is only a downside for the point of view character to know significantly more about the world than the reader.
I honestly and sincerely believe that mystery and ambiguity are better than firm answers, especially when it comes to metaphysics and religion. The moment you have answers to this, you've stripped them of their wonder and elegance.
Another issue is that one of the themes of the campaign is or at least it really should be the diversity of competing ideologies.These different ideologies have different metaphysics, be they materialist, idealist, or anti-realist. There are also very different forms of religion, some pantheistic and mystical, some theistic, dualistic, and rational, and some are atheistic and materialistic. To definitively show 'actually, this one theory of the world is correct and everyone else is just wrong' would be to completely miss the point and undermine the theme. Sure, there are some events - like the appearance of Maar or Windigos - but they at least should admit of multiple interpretations, not definitively proving or disproving ideologies.
Having said all of that - all of it - I guess there might be some circumstances that I would be okay with plane walking. There is an H.P. Lovecraft short story that features a character finding and exploring a dimension accessible through a mirror, and two of my quests thus far have been adaptations of H.P. Lovecraft stories. But it's hard for me to justify the characters already knowing a considerable amount about the planes before encountering them.
I feel like I didn't say very much of that well... Most of my background is in various forms of non-fiction. In college I was a philosophy major, and much of my reading has been history or philosophy. In so far as I read fiction, it's mostly horror. The rule in horror is 'don't show the monster.' So I feel more comfortable obeying the rules of horror and non-fiction writing than even what is normal in fantasy or sci-fi. I am certainly willing to listen to anything you'd like to say
I am extremely reticent to show anything other than the direct material plane, and I think I should justify that hesitation.
It links into my theory on fantasy and magic and a common failing of the fantasy and sci fi genres. To me, an experience or a part of the world needs to fall into one of two categories, or else be boring and uninteresting. The first is that portion of the mundane world that can be studied by the natural sciences and thus comprehended by human reason. There's a beauty to the logic of it. The other is those experiences that are so far beyond the natural that they can be called mystical, and incite emotions of awe or terror as they defy human comprehension. Outside of these two extremes, experiences become familiar and mundane while not having a logical substance to it that the brain can ruminate on. This is my problem with many depictions of magic and fantasy. Often, the point of view character is familiar with the magic and [workings of the world, and thus cannot and will not react with the wonder or terror that a human of our world would, while the same magic and workings are obscure to the reader and thus do not allow the leader to understand and appreciate the intimacies of the internal logic on a rational level. If the workings of the world are unfamiliar to both the point of view character and the reader, the reader and character may both respond with awe or terror. If the workings of the world are well understood by the reader, regardless of the character's understanding, then there is an opportunity for the reader to rationally appreciate the internal workings of the world and their beauty. Outside of maybe comedy and dramatic reveals, I think it is only a downside for the point of view character to know significantly more about the world than the reader.
I honestly and sincerely believe that mystery and ambiguity are better than firm answers, especially when it comes to metaphysics and religion. The moment you have answers to this, you've stripped them of their wonder and elegance.
Another issue is that one of the themes of the campaign is or at least it really should be the diversity of competing ideologies.These different ideologies have different metaphysics, be they materialist, idealist, or anti-realist. There are also very different forms of religion, some pantheistic and mystical, some theistic, dualistic, and rational, and some are atheistic and materialistic. To definitively show 'actually, this one theory of the world is correct and everyone else is just wrong' would be to completely miss the point and undermine the theme. Sure, there are some events - like the appearance of Maar or Windigos - but they at least should admit of multiple interpretations, not definitively proving or disproving ideologies.
Having said all of that - all of it - I guess there might be some circumstances that I would be okay with plane walking. There is an H.P. Lovecraft short story that features a character finding and exploring a dimension accessible through a mirror, and two of my quests thus far have been adaptations of H.P. Lovecraft stories. But it's hard for me to justify the characters already knowing a considerable amount about the planes before encountering them.
I feel like I didn't say very much of that well... Most of my background is in various forms of non-fiction. In college I was a philosophy major, and much of my reading has been history or philosophy. In so far as I read fiction, it's mostly horror. The rule in horror is 'don't show the monster.' So I feel more comfortable obeying the rules of horror and non-fiction writing than even what is normal in fantasy or sci-fi. I am certainly willing to listen to anything you'd like to say
>>131502
I understand completely. My question was half-serious if only that though I would be interested in a planewalking campaign at some point (though clearly it doesn't fit into this one).
I did a small wiki-walk the other day from demilich>Acererak>atropal>Negative Energy plane>the "Inner Planes." I've always been a fan of the bizarre and was impressed at how the elemental cosmology of Forgotten Realms can be elegantly depicted as a sphere. It's also nice how the more esoteric/bizarre planes give a basic guide of what to expect but leave it open-ended for the DM to weave a story.
Not sure if it's true or not but it seems like philosophy majors and "right-brain" thinkers favor H.P. Lovecraft's work, which makes sense. Interestingly enough Conquest of Elysium homages him with the "Cultist" class and an entire plane.
I understand completely. My question was half-serious if only that though I would be interested in a planewalking campaign at some point (though clearly it doesn't fit into this one).
I did a small wiki-walk the other day from demilich>Acererak>atropal>Negative Energy plane>the "Inner Planes." I've always been a fan of the bizarre and was impressed at how the elemental cosmology of Forgotten Realms can be elegantly depicted as a sphere. It's also nice how the more esoteric/bizarre planes give a basic guide of what to expect but leave it open-ended for the DM to weave a story.
Not sure if it's true or not but it seems like philosophy majors and "right-brain" thinkers favor H.P. Lovecraft's work, which makes sense. Interestingly enough Conquest of Elysium homages him with the "Cultist" class and an entire plane.
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>>131503
Just to be very clear, I am not saying that there could be no planes nor plane walking, only that whatever planes may be are not going to be well understood by society, a significant portion of it, or by the player characters. If it wasn't obvious, I've been going for a kind of Aristotelian cosmological model, or at least that is what is accepted. My Little Pony has mirrors that go to alternative dimensions as a part of its cannon, and there is an H.P. Lovecraft short that centers on a mirror that accesses an alternate plane. I can imagine how such a thing can be fit into the story, it's just that if there will be anything like pane walking, the experience will be more like the data log of a D-class in an SCP entry than a conventional high fantasy
Just to be very clear, I am not saying that there could be no planes nor plane walking, only that whatever planes may be are not going to be well understood by society, a significant portion of it, or by the player characters. If it wasn't obvious, I've been going for a kind of Aristotelian cosmological model, or at least that is what is accepted. My Little Pony has mirrors that go to alternative dimensions as a part of its cannon, and there is an H.P. Lovecraft short that centers on a mirror that accesses an alternate plane. I can imagine how such a thing can be fit into the story, it's just that if there will be anything like pane walking, the experience will be more like the data log of a D-class in an SCP entry than a conventional high fantasy
>>131495
Silver nods at the display.
"Indeed you do. Still, it never hurts to learn more, and if you ever dicide you want to, I would be honored."
Silver nods at the display.
"Indeed you do. Still, it never hurts to learn more, and if you ever dicide you want to, I would be honored."
>>131513
Mala turns his head, and looks at Silver with his big, brown-black eyes.
"Thmmh nimmh" he mumbles. Then he turns his head back, and practices thrusting the sword, stabbing the air in repeated maneuvers.
Looking back to Silver's new sword, he might see the branching rays of the four point sun, or any of several other symbols engraved on the sword's ricasso, between the forward quillon and the crossguard. Perhaps they are the symbols of the sword's makers, of families and ponies who owned the sword, or of certain monasteries in any case, Pear either couldn't or just didn't explain them. The blade of the sword is close to pristine, almost worryingly so, until a very close examination reveals a few small nicks on the edge and top of the blade. On the handle, Silver can see that the hilt is covered in a decaying leather, and for the first time, silver can see rust underneath this layer. There is no pommel on the end, but rather a leather cover over what seems to be a screw for a pommel. Silver still has no proper way to carry it.
Mala turns his head, and looks at Silver with his big, brown-black eyes.
"Thmmh nimmh" he mumbles. Then he turns his head back, and practices thrusting the sword, stabbing the air in repeated maneuvers.
Looking back to Silver's new sword, he might see the branching rays of the four point sun, or any of several other symbols engraved on the sword's ricasso, between the forward quillon and the crossguard. Perhaps they are the symbols of the sword's makers, of families and ponies who owned the sword, or of certain monasteries in any case, Pear either couldn't or just didn't explain them. The blade of the sword is close to pristine, almost worryingly so, until a very close examination reveals a few small nicks on the edge and top of the blade. On the handle, Silver can see that the hilt is covered in a decaying leather, and for the first time, silver can see rust underneath this layer. There is no pommel on the end, but rather a leather cover over what seems to be a screw for a pommel. Silver still has no proper way to carry it.
>>131514
He holds it across his back with his magic in liu of a way to carry it. He decides he needs to find a blacksmith soon to finish restoring the sword and find a way to carry it.
He holds it across his back with his magic in liu of a way to carry it. He decides he needs to find a blacksmith soon to finish restoring the sword and find a way to carry it.
>>131406
Trotting into the Northeast, Amber is once again in a very different kind of area. There's a section of land in an almost "L" shape that moves east, then south nearer the coastline, consisting of factories, manufactories, warehouses, mills, and other such industrial facilities built around a rail-line. Though factories are not often marked, small signs show an aircraft landing gear factory, a factory making truck parts, a textile mill that finishes uniforms, and another making parachutes. At the corner of the "L" is what appears to be some sort of oil refinery or chemical plant. Many of the factories have high fences, even barbed wire around them, and some have green uniformed guards that look like soldiers. Amber has seen these sorts of guards before, around a few prominent buildings in the city center, and they seem more common here. Not all of the factories have smoke stacks or cooling towers, but those that do are certainly making use of them, as the factories abound with activity and sounds.
By the water are a few clusters of docks and piers with warehouses beyond, though segments of the water have other buildings by them, which appear to involve fishing, and even a much older colonial style mansion on the waterfront. The northern most section of piers is roped off. The sections nearest the waterfront have the least consistency with the grid pattern, with some roads crossing diagonally, and more space between roads. In some instances this seems to be related to the larger plots used by industrial sites, and in some instances - especially the diagonal roadways - it is an inexplicable part of the city planning.
Shops congregate in a band around the city center, though they are often scattered throughout. Some are strange and almost mysterious, some are run down, some are abandoned, and some look just as proper as the ones in west town. Many are beneath larger buildings or are attached in rows, but especially towards the north and closer to the water there are more free standing buildings and shops. One building that stands out is the regional offices of the Dominion Mining Company, a twenty story beige brick office building with narrow, tall windows. It's not particularly aesthetically pleasing or tall, even by the standards of Baltimare, but it stands out as one of the few, or the only, high rises in this section of the town, well east of the center. There are a few more tall buildings, in particular what seems to be a shot tower stands out, looking almost like a castle's tower. The red brick tower is well over a hundred feet tall, and closer to the south of the city.
Residences are mostly overwhelmingly multifamily apartment buildings in blocks. Never more than five stories in height, these black, grey, brown and red tenement buildings are close to together and sometimes have external fire escapes, though that doesn't seem to be universal. Whereas the industrial buildings are mostly in functioning condition, or seem to be at least, residences display more signs of damage, with boarded up windows, shattered windows, and collapsed roofs being far from rare. Further north are more rowhouses and single family residences, though there are some near the center randomly placed, that seem to be of a much older design.
There is no parrallel to the neo-gothic cathedral of Saint Eligius in this area of the city, though there are many places of worship. Some have brick and stone with towers of the celestial design, some are similarly tall but more plain. Some are round in shape but clearly adorned with celestialist symbols, and still some others, mostly of a round design. Multiple distinct sects of the celestialist faith seem to be represented, and several religions having no origin in Equestria as well. There are several government buildings like a firestation with an automotive engine, a police post, and several school houses, which are mostly multi-story brick buildings of a design from the last century Amber has seen before.
This is an area with a very large number of non-ponies. Griffins are probably the single largest group of non-ponies, but diamond dogs and zebras are not far behind, with a few Kirin and even other groups like large, bipedal cats. Ponies are a narrow majority, but some seem to be ethnically distinct from the Equestrians Amber knows, and some speak in foreign languages or strange dialects as she passes. There are a couple ponies by themselves mumbling, or even shouting to no one at corners. Creatures here seem poorer than in the west, even when of the same race as their counterparts, but mostly they are still working class, with the attire generally being a little more functional.
>>131518
The sword is very big, and even when carried across his back diagonally sort of extends over. Its center of balance is around the ricasso, and the cross guard is very large, itself covered in that decaying leather.
Trotting into the Northeast, Amber is once again in a very different kind of area. There's a section of land in an almost "L" shape that moves east, then south nearer the coastline, consisting of factories, manufactories, warehouses, mills, and other such industrial facilities built around a rail-line. Though factories are not often marked, small signs show an aircraft landing gear factory, a factory making truck parts, a textile mill that finishes uniforms, and another making parachutes. At the corner of the "L" is what appears to be some sort of oil refinery or chemical plant. Many of the factories have high fences, even barbed wire around them, and some have green uniformed guards that look like soldiers. Amber has seen these sorts of guards before, around a few prominent buildings in the city center, and they seem more common here. Not all of the factories have smoke stacks or cooling towers, but those that do are certainly making use of them, as the factories abound with activity and sounds.
By the water are a few clusters of docks and piers with warehouses beyond, though segments of the water have other buildings by them, which appear to involve fishing, and even a much older colonial style mansion on the waterfront. The northern most section of piers is roped off. The sections nearest the waterfront have the least consistency with the grid pattern, with some roads crossing diagonally, and more space between roads. In some instances this seems to be related to the larger plots used by industrial sites, and in some instances - especially the diagonal roadways - it is an inexplicable part of the city planning.
Shops congregate in a band around the city center, though they are often scattered throughout. Some are strange and almost mysterious, some are run down, some are abandoned, and some look just as proper as the ones in west town. Many are beneath larger buildings or are attached in rows, but especially towards the north and closer to the water there are more free standing buildings and shops. One building that stands out is the regional offices of the Dominion Mining Company, a twenty story beige brick office building with narrow, tall windows. It's not particularly aesthetically pleasing or tall, even by the standards of Baltimare, but it stands out as one of the few, or the only, high rises in this section of the town, well east of the center. There are a few more tall buildings, in particular what seems to be a shot tower stands out, looking almost like a castle's tower. The red brick tower is well over a hundred feet tall, and closer to the south of the city.
Residences are mostly overwhelmingly multifamily apartment buildings in blocks. Never more than five stories in height, these black, grey, brown and red tenement buildings are close to together and sometimes have external fire escapes, though that doesn't seem to be universal. Whereas the industrial buildings are mostly in functioning condition, or seem to be at least, residences display more signs of damage, with boarded up windows, shattered windows, and collapsed roofs being far from rare. Further north are more rowhouses and single family residences, though there are some near the center randomly placed, that seem to be of a much older design.
There is no parrallel to the neo-gothic cathedral of Saint Eligius in this area of the city, though there are many places of worship. Some have brick and stone with towers of the celestial design, some are similarly tall but more plain. Some are round in shape but clearly adorned with celestialist symbols, and still some others, mostly of a round design. Multiple distinct sects of the celestialist faith seem to be represented, and several religions having no origin in Equestria as well. There are several government buildings like a firestation with an automotive engine, a police post, and several school houses, which are mostly multi-story brick buildings of a design from the last century Amber has seen before.
This is an area with a very large number of non-ponies. Griffins are probably the single largest group of non-ponies, but diamond dogs and zebras are not far behind, with a few Kirin and even other groups like large, bipedal cats. Ponies are a narrow majority, but some seem to be ethnically distinct from the Equestrians Amber knows, and some speak in foreign languages or strange dialects as she passes. There are a couple ponies by themselves mumbling, or even shouting to no one at corners. Creatures here seem poorer than in the west, even when of the same race as their counterparts, but mostly they are still working class, with the attire generally being a little more functional.
>>131518
The sword is very big, and even when carried across his back diagonally sort of extends over. Its center of balance is around the ricasso, and the cross guard is very large, itself covered in that decaying leather.
>>131519
Something to take care of later. First things first, he needs to go to a store and buy some rope.
Something to take care of later. First things first, he needs to go to a store and buy some rope.
>>131525
Popping into the first store produces no such luck, but Silver comes across a free standing store that seems to have some agricultural supplies. The stallion - a black maned hornless pony with glasses and sharp blue eyes looks with concern at the stallion with an oversized sword across his back, and an equally well armed hyena. He says nothing, but has a wincing expression with his teeth, eyes locked on the creatures as they approach.
Popping into the first store produces no such luck, but Silver comes across a free standing store that seems to have some agricultural supplies. The stallion - a black maned hornless pony with glasses and sharp blue eyes looks with concern at the stallion with an oversized sword across his back, and an equally well armed hyena. He says nothing, but has a wincing expression with his teeth, eyes locked on the creatures as they approach.
>>131526
He looks at the shopkeerer first confused, then sheepish as he realizes what's wrong.
"Oh! My apologies, friend, I have not yet found way to sheath sword, yet. I was just looking for some rope."
He looks at the shopkeerer first confused, then sheepish as he realizes what's wrong.
"Oh! My apologies, friend, I have not yet found way to sheath sword, yet. I was just looking for some rope."
>>131527
He blinks, and his eyes return to their wide open stance. He moves a hoof up
"By the wall, closer to the back" he says, motioning his hoof in that direction
He blinks, and his eyes return to their wide open stance. He moves a hoof up
"By the wall, closer to the back" he says, motioning his hoof in that direction
>>131528
"Ah, thank you!"
He goes to the directed area, speaking to Mala quietly once they get there.
"You remember what we did with Maakie, yes?"
"Ah, thank you!"
He goes to the directed area, speaking to Mala quietly once they get there.
"You remember what we did with Maakie, yes?"
>>131530
"I was going to pull him back out, and turn him into authorities for reward. I think he has has been down there long enough."
"I was going to pull him back out, and turn him into authorities for reward. I think he has has been down there long enough."
>>131534
After a couple seconds of silence, Silver places a hoof on Mala's shoulder.
"I promised you I would get you amnesty. I intend to keep that promise."
After a couple seconds of silence, Silver places a hoof on Mala's shoulder.
"I promised you I would get you amnesty. I intend to keep that promise."
>>131536
He pets Mala a little, since his head is so exposed.
"You do not have to come along if you do not want to."
He pets Mala a little, since his head is so exposed.
"You do not have to come along if you do not want to."
>>131537
He closes his eyes, and seems to smile as his head is pet.
"I think I should come. You may need help securing or carrying him."
He closes his eyes, and seems to smile as his head is pet.
"I think I should come. You may need help securing or carrying him."
>>131538
He smiles at his reaction.
"Alright, it is your choice."
He gets some strong rope, pays for it, and heads for 33 Hoebuck with Mala.
He smiles at his reaction.
"Alright, it is your choice."
He gets some strong rope, pays for it, and heads for 33 Hoebuck with Mala.
>>131539
It only costs a few bits. The stallion at the counter doesn't say anything, but rather watches the pair.
Silver and Mala are quite a ways north and a little west of 33 Hoebuck; it's a nice, long walk back down.
It only costs a few bits. The stallion at the counter doesn't say anything, but rather watches the pair.
Silver and Mala are quite a ways north and a little west of 33 Hoebuck; it's a nice, long walk back down.
>>131541
A taxi is certainly possible, even if taxis are less common in the northern town, and the pair are a bit of an awkward, or rather, unsettling sight
A taxi is certainly possible, even if taxis are less common in the northern town, and the pair are a bit of an awkward, or rather, unsettling sight
>>131543
After what seems like a taxi slowing down then driving off, a taxi piloted by a griffin picks them up to take them to 33 Hoebuck
After what seems like a taxi slowing down then driving off, a taxi piloted by a griffin picks them up to take them to 33 Hoebuck
>>131547
Makade looks over intently
Waabashki continues
"I... I can't say. Tradition tells us that the Wetiko arises when a soul is consumed by its on greed, be they Ma'iingan or pony... but the doubles... we've never seen this before. Be cautious, as we are dealing with unknowns."
Makade looks over intently
Waabashki continues
"I... I can't say. Tradition tells us that the Wetiko arises when a soul is consumed by its on greed, be they Ma'iingan or pony... but the doubles... we've never seen this before. Be cautious, as we are dealing with unknowns."
>>131548
"Hmm... well if they can't be seen in the wild, then I suppose there is no point in wandering in search for them."
"Hmm... well if they can't be seen in the wild, then I suppose there is no point in wandering in search for them."
>>131549
Non-responsive to Spark, she adds
"In some stories, being around one can cause the change..."
Non-responsive to Spark, she adds
"In some stories, being around one can cause the change..."
>>131550
"Well... we where around it for a bit before it revealed itself. Mainly it was when the bat stabbed him..."
"Well... we where around it for a bit before it revealed itself. Mainly it was when the bat stabbed him..."
>>131553
"N-..."
She turns her head to her side, towards Makade. She stops her head before turning it further, as if she was expecting him to be located a little bit closer to her side, instead of behind her. She speaks to him:
"nagaji' pakwaanaajiinh-bebezhigooganzhii?" she says to him, inflecting it like it's a question.
"Ni-nagadenim pakwaanaajiinh-bebezhigooganzhii?"
He tips his head a little to the sight, rights it, and answers
"Eniwek"
She turns her head to Spark, and answers him
"No. I have never met a 'bat' pony. Makade is at least aware of them though. What is a 'bat pony'?"
"N-..."
She turns her head to her side, towards Makade. She stops her head before turning it further, as if she was expecting him to be located a little bit closer to her side, instead of behind her. She speaks to him:
"nagaji' pakwaanaajiinh-bebezhigooganzhii?" she says to him, inflecting it like it's a question.
"Ni-nagadenim pakwaanaajiinh-bebezhigooganzhii?"
He tips his head a little to the sight, rights it, and answers
"Eniwek"
She turns her head to Spark, and answers him
"No. I have never met a 'bat' pony. Makade is at least aware of them though. What is a 'bat pony'?"
>>131554
"Well, they look a lot like us ponies, but with features you associate with bats. Different eyes, pointy ears, cravings for certain fruits, leathery wings, stuff like that."
"Well, they look a lot like us ponies, but with features you associate with bats. Different eyes, pointy ears, cravings for certain fruits, leathery wings, stuff like that."
>>131555
She tilts her head in the other direction, and looks at Spark with big yellow eyes which blink
"huh, I would not have thought there were more types of ponies than the glittering, horned, and bird-winged ones."
She tilts her head in the other direction, and looks at Spark with big yellow eyes which blink
"huh, I would not have thought there were more types of ponies than the glittering, horned, and bird-winged ones."
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Is anypony here?
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>>131258
White Sands quickly trots forwards towards Iron, and to his side. She speaks sternly into his ear
"I thought you were going to goad them lightly. Not outright threaten them?!"
>>131543
>>131544
The taxi stops out in front of the long, connected trio of buildings. The stone and brick of 33 Hoebuck looks particularly aged in the daylight, and the lot is surrounded by police tape. On the lot next to the building are carts belonging to Baltimare PD, as well as a single green light truck with the insignia of R&M.
White Sands quickly trots forwards towards Iron, and to his side. She speaks sternly into his ear
"I thought you were going to goad them lightly. Not outright threaten them?!"
>>131543
>>131544
The taxi stops out in front of the long, connected trio of buildings. The stone and brick of 33 Hoebuck looks particularly aged in the daylight, and the lot is surrounded by police tape. On the lot next to the building are carts belonging to Baltimare PD, as well as a single green light truck with the insignia of R&M.
>>131564
"Дерьмо. This will complicate things."
He looks at the R&M truck, and looks over towards Mala.
"'R&M'. What is that?"
"Дерьмо. This will complicate things."
He looks at the R&M truck, and looks over towards Mala.
"'R&M'. What is that?"
>>131566
Silver rubs his chin in thought.
"Think they would let us in since we were ones who cleared it?"
Silver rubs his chin in thought.
"Think they would let us in since we were ones who cleared it?"
>>131569
One pony seems to move from a cart into the covered loading dock by the factory building. It's the same general area where the ponies tried to break in the first time
One pony seems to move from a cart into the covered loading dock by the factory building. It's the same general area where the ponies tried to break in the first time
>>131570
"Hmm...perhaps we could try to sneak in, since there is few outside. Else we can just ask one who is outside..."
"Hmm...perhaps we could try to sneak in, since there is few outside. Else we can just ask one who is outside..."
>>131572
"I don't have a good history with police. I will leave it to you."
Silver can either try to locate another officer, or figure out how to sneak around
"I don't have a good history with police. I will leave it to you."
Silver can either try to locate another officer, or figure out how to sneak around
>>131573
"Hmm...I think I will try to find another officer. Are you coming, or will you stay outside?"
"Hmm...I think I will try to find another officer. Are you coming, or will you stay outside?"
>>131577
Mala does indeed stay close to Silver.
Silver can see that there is another officer wearing a green uniform and a cattlemare's hat by the truck, doing something there
Mala does indeed stay close to Silver.
Silver can see that there is another officer wearing a green uniform and a cattlemare's hat by the truck, doing something there
>>131578
Silver trots up to the officer in question.
"Excuse me, officer? My partner and I were part of group that cleared this location two nights ago. We need to go inside for investigation."
Silver trots up to the officer in question.
"Excuse me, officer? My partner and I were part of group that cleared this location two nights ago. We need to go inside for investigation."
>>131579
The stallion is placing something into the truck when he is surprised and turns back to Silver. The melon-orange Pegasus stallion turns back to Silver, seeming startled. He looks older, much older than many of the officers Silver has encountered. He blinks, and looks directly at Silver with his green eyes
"Aye, the fuck did you come from?"
The stallion is placing something into the truck when he is surprised and turns back to Silver. The melon-orange Pegasus stallion turns back to Silver, seeming startled. He looks older, much older than many of the officers Silver has encountered. He blinks, and looks directly at Silver with his green eyes
"Aye, the fuck did you come from?"
>>131581
"Oh great, anotha group claimin' the place. Well, carry on. Look ya just came out of a fairy tale with those things on ya back. And the fuck is wrong with your dog there? Little bastard's got a sword too, and a big one."
"Oh great, anotha group claimin' the place. Well, carry on. Look ya just came out of a fairy tale with those things on ya back. And the fuck is wrong with your dog there? Little bastard's got a sword too, and a big one."
>>131583
"Partna'" He turns his head to the side
"They do all sorts a weird shit in here, cain't say this is the weirdest thing I've seen all day. Almost makes me long for the days when all we had to worry about were fungus infected kiwis. Well I'll tell ya you might as well go on in. Damn city police officas them themselves the royal guard ova in that factory building. Must make em feel super important doing this."
"Partna'" He turns his head to the side
"They do all sorts a weird shit in here, cain't say this is the weirdest thing I've seen all day. Almost makes me long for the days when all we had to worry about were fungus infected kiwis. Well I'll tell ya you might as well go on in. Damn city police officas them themselves the royal guard ova in that factory building. Must make em feel super important doing this."
>>131584
He nods to the officer.
"Thank you."
Silver then enters the building, looking for the garbage chute room.
He nods to the officer.
"Thank you."
Silver then enters the building, looking for the garbage chute room.
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Is anypony there?
>>131586
Life has been really busy the last couple of weeks and now my internet is on the fritz. I look forward to joining later next week but I want to let you know I haven't lost interest.
Life has been really busy the last couple of weeks and now my internet is on the fritz. I look forward to joining later next week but I want to let you know I haven't lost interest.
Fantasy Play casts fatal from fatal and wins the game. Then she dances a happy horse dance with happy horse noises.
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>>131585
The officer waves a hoof, and sticks his head back in the truck, saying something to himself that is not quite distinct enough to be understood. When Silver enters, another green uniformed officer starts to flag him down with a "hey," but gives up before completing the task, saying something about the "damn police and every agency wants to get in here like it's a mare on the cover a' monthly." The first level seems to have considerable activity, with a couple officers. A glance into the old central hall shows a floor cleaned of bodies, burned robes and dropped machetes, but stained black in areas. Going down, into the access tunnels, there are no officers at all. Though dried blood still stains the floor, the bodies in the boiler room are gone. Silver enters back into the open, stonewalled, rectangular room where he first found Loputu and Jubilosa, and the garbage chute.
The officer waves a hoof, and sticks his head back in the truck, saying something to himself that is not quite distinct enough to be understood. When Silver enters, another green uniformed officer starts to flag him down with a "hey," but gives up before completing the task, saying something about the "damn police and every agency wants to get in here like it's a mare on the cover a' monthly." The first level seems to have considerable activity, with a couple officers. A glance into the old central hall shows a floor cleaned of bodies, burned robes and dropped machetes, but stained black in areas. Going down, into the access tunnels, there are no officers at all. Though dried blood still stains the floor, the bodies in the boiler room are gone. Silver enters back into the open, stonewalled, rectangular room where he first found Loputu and Jubilosa, and the garbage chute.
>>131628
"I haven't met any. Not that I really wanted to, but I mean... have you met many?"
>>131629
Immediately, he is greated with the smell, and:
"Over verdomde tijd! Get me out of here!"
Maakie is still there, evidently conscious, and tied up face down in the pile of bones. His feathers and fur are stained with dried blood, and some not so dried. His voice conveys weakness and fatigue, as surely as anger.
"I haven't met any. Not that I really wanted to, but I mean... have you met many?"
>>131629
Immediately, he is greated with the smell, and:
"Over verdomde tijd! Get me out of here!"
Maakie is still there, evidently conscious, and tied up face down in the pile of bones. His feathers and fur are stained with dried blood, and some not so dried. His voice conveys weakness and fatigue, as surely as anger.
>>131630
Oh, good, he is alive.
Silver gets the rope, and drops one end of it down the chute for Maakie to climb up on.
Oh, good, he is alive.
Silver gets the rope, and drops one end of it down the chute for Maakie to climb up on.
>>131630
"Not many. Just the one bat. He is a bit... well... impatient is one way to put it. But he got me this far. I owe him."
"Not many. Just the one bat. He is a bit... well... impatient is one way to put it. But he got me this far. I owe him."
>>131631
He yells demandingly, though hoarsely and with a trembling voice
"Get.. me out of here!"
His forelegs are tied up, as are his wings, and he is unable to get get. At least one of his hind legs, the right rear, is free and is pushing back against the rear wall, but all that can do is push his face deeper into the bones and the wall in the narrow confines of the chute
>>131632
She blinks, and her ears twitch as she looks at Spark, silent for a moment
"Does... that have anything to do with you being out here?"
He yells demandingly, though hoarsely and with a trembling voice
"Get.. me out of here!"
His forelegs are tied up, as are his wings, and he is unable to get get. At least one of his hind legs, the right rear, is free and is pushing back against the rear wall, but all that can do is push his face deeper into the bones and the wall in the narrow confines of the chute
>>131632
She blinks, and her ears twitch as she looks at Spark, silent for a moment
"Does... that have anything to do with you being out here?"
>>131633
"Oh, right."
He looks down into the chute so he can use his magic to tie the rope around Maakie. He looks back to Mala.
"Mind helping me pull?"
"Oh, right."
He looks down into the chute so he can use his magic to tie the rope around Maakie. He looks back to Mala.
"Mind helping me pull?"
>>131634
This is possible if, and only if, Silver shines a light down into the chute. When this is done, Silver sees the details of a scene more than a little ghastly in its own right. A skull with a sawed off horn, the long exposed bone remnant of the muzzle of a minotaur - maybe it was a horse, hard to tell - and a beakless skull, as well as more than a few blackened rib bones, long bones that probably belonged to a wing, and broken fragments of other, smaller bones and claws.... all of these are visible only on the edges, as the still living body Maakie is perched diagonally on top of the pile of bones in the narrow steel chute, blocking the view of most of them. His fine, formal suit is tattered, torn, sliced, blood soaked, and dirty, and his ruffled feathers and fur are in the same situation. More than a little of his blood has poured onto the bones, adding a rust color to decayed brown and charred black bones that never bleached white in the sun, giving them an all the more ghastly appearance. Maakie may have been fortunate to be so dirty and covered in clothes, as it seems to have helped the blood to clot, and saved him from shock. Maakie's head is faced down, and he can't move it much from that position. He cannot see Silver, but continues yelling things like "get me out!"
Mala nods, and pulls on the rope once it is tied, using the entrance of the chute as a sort of pulley. He pulls back on it using his weight, and holding the rope in his mouth with the same mouth guard he used for the sword. Mala pulls with a bit of strength. Maakie begins to be pulled out.
This is possible if, and only if, Silver shines a light down into the chute. When this is done, Silver sees the details of a scene more than a little ghastly in its own right. A skull with a sawed off horn, the long exposed bone remnant of the muzzle of a minotaur - maybe it was a horse, hard to tell - and a beakless skull, as well as more than a few blackened rib bones, long bones that probably belonged to a wing, and broken fragments of other, smaller bones and claws.... all of these are visible only on the edges, as the still living body Maakie is perched diagonally on top of the pile of bones in the narrow steel chute, blocking the view of most of them. His fine, formal suit is tattered, torn, sliced, blood soaked, and dirty, and his ruffled feathers and fur are in the same situation. More than a little of his blood has poured onto the bones, adding a rust color to decayed brown and charred black bones that never bleached white in the sun, giving them an all the more ghastly appearance. Maakie may have been fortunate to be so dirty and covered in clothes, as it seems to have helped the blood to clot, and saved him from shock. Maakie's head is faced down, and he can't move it much from that position. He cannot see Silver, but continues yelling things like "get me out!"
Mala nods, and pulls on the rope once it is tied, using the entrance of the chute as a sort of pulley. He pulls back on it using his weight, and holding the rope in his mouth with the same mouth guard he used for the sword. Mala pulls with a bit of strength. Maakie begins to be pulled out.
>>131633
"Yes. We are hear because we are saving some changeling foals. They were trapped in New Mareland territory, so we are being them back home."
"Yes. We are hear because we are saving some changeling foals. They were trapped in New Mareland territory, so we are being them back home."
>>131635
Silver pulls as well, splitting the effort between them and making it a far easier affair than it would be for them separately.
Silver pulls as well, splitting the effort between them and making it a far easier affair than it would be for them separately.
>>131636
She shakes her head
"I do not know what you mean about foals and merry land. But I do know that these... things from outside our home threaten our peace."
>>131637
Mala pulls, and it quickly becomes the case that the problem isn't the strength, exactly, but maneuvering Maakie through a narrow chute that barely fits a creature his size,
She shakes her head
"I do not know what you mean about foals and merry land. But I do know that these... things from outside our home threaten our peace."
>>131637
Mala pulls, and it quickly becomes the case that the problem isn't the strength, exactly, but maneuvering Maakie through a narrow chute that barely fits a creature his size,
>>131638
"The peace of the land is already broken. It just takes longer to get to some places than others."
"The peace of the land is already broken. It just takes longer to get to some places than others."
>>131638
"Shit..."
He looks down the chute, and tries to use his magic to maneuver Maakie on his way out of the chute.
"Shit..."
He looks down the chute, and tries to use his magic to maneuver Maakie on his way out of the chute.
>>131644
He is shivering on the floor, and moves his head up, moving it to face Silver. When his right eye meets Silver it locks and narrows on Silver, and instantly his whole body freezes in place, locked on Silver
"You."
>>131645
She moves up closer, and her tail moves slightly back and forth
"And that, I think, is why the spirits have brought you here."
He is shivering on the floor, and moves his head up, moving it to face Silver. When his right eye meets Silver it locks and narrows on Silver, and instantly his whole body freezes in place, locked on Silver
"You."
>>131645
She moves up closer, and her tail moves slightly back and forth
"And that, I think, is why the spirits have brought you here."
>>131646
"Yes, me. I take it you are dehydrated, yes? I think I still have water ration somewhere..."
He looks in his bags a bit before pulling one out.
"Yes, me. I take it you are dehydrated, yes? I think I still have water ration somewhere..."
He looks in his bags a bit before pulling one out.
>>131649
Silver puts a foreleg in front of Mala to halt him before looking at Maakie's admittedly pathetic display.
"You really should stop."
Silver puts a foreleg in front of Mala to halt him before looking at Maakie's admittedly pathetic display.
"You really should stop."
>>131649
"I can get you prepared in case anything should happen, while working to make sure nothing ever does."
"I can get you prepared in case anything should happen, while working to make sure nothing ever does."
>>131651
Silver opens the water ration, and offers it to Maakie by putting it up to his beak.
"Here, drink."
Silver opens the water ration, and offers it to Maakie by putting it up to his beak.
"Here, drink."
I'm finally over the worst of it so I can play again. I'll hop into sessions earlier from now on, don't worry.
>>131519
The first thing Amber notices when entering this area is the loud raucous rhythm of mysterious industrious machines. The thought occurs to her to wonder what working in a factory would be like instead, but her desire to ask–let alone look inside–is quelled by the heavy degree of security. The Dominion Mining Company building immediately catches her eye, but its plain façade and the difference between mining and sailing is certainly unromantic so she doesn't care to approach. Nonetheless, she does note its position as a useful landmark.
The run-down nature of the tenements makes even her own seem practically palatial in comparison and she breathes a sigh of relief that she found her residence where she did. She doesn't know if the ponies and creatures here are friendlier than in her new neighborhood–they certainly seem more productive–but she's glad that they're ignoring her for now. After shedding her odd dress Amber likely sticks out much less, though she may still clearly be an outsider.
Although she's initially neutral at best regarding this utilitarian district, perhaps despite the din her ears pick up the sound of surf against a seawall, or she smells salt in the air. Amber's eyes widen and she makes a beeline for those segments of the waterfront that are easily accessible, though she looks back over her withers now and then to make sure she remembers the way back. If the colonial-style mansion comes into view that will certainly be the center of interest.
I've never seen the ocean before. It's so close!
>>131519
The first thing Amber notices when entering this area is the loud raucous rhythm of mysterious industrious machines. The thought occurs to her to wonder what working in a factory would be like instead, but her desire to ask–let alone look inside–is quelled by the heavy degree of security. The Dominion Mining Company building immediately catches her eye, but its plain façade and the difference between mining and sailing is certainly unromantic so she doesn't care to approach. Nonetheless, she does note its position as a useful landmark.
The run-down nature of the tenements makes even her own seem practically palatial in comparison and she breathes a sigh of relief that she found her residence where she did. She doesn't know if the ponies and creatures here are friendlier than in her new neighborhood–they certainly seem more productive–but she's glad that they're ignoring her for now. After shedding her odd dress Amber likely sticks out much less, though she may still clearly be an outsider.
Although she's initially neutral at best regarding this utilitarian district, perhaps despite the din her ears pick up the sound of surf against a seawall, or she smells salt in the air. Amber's eyes widen and she makes a beeline for those segments of the waterfront that are easily accessible, though she looks back over her withers now and then to make sure she remembers the way back. If the colonial-style mansion comes into view that will certainly be the center of interest.
I've never seen the ocean before. It's so close!
>>131653
He looks down at the water, and then up to Silver
"I don't imagine this is poison. Too many alternatives to make that your go-to" He stares flatly at Silver. "Unless you only intend to cause pain. Tear up internal organs. Or... A truth serum, perhaps..."
>>131652
"Get us 'prepared'?"
He moves his shoulder, which brings the rifle on the sling closer to the ground. He uses his muzzle to place it there. Spark can see that it's smoothly lathed and sanded hardwood, with a long scope, no bayonet mount, and a leather five round cartridge holder on the right side of the butt. The model, though pre-war, is fairly new, and while likely designed and sold as a civilian hunting rifle, it's hard to imagine what else a sniper would use but that kind of gun.
Makade looks up and at Spark with amber eyes
"I have hunted large game since I was a pup. I have gone through your pony 'basic training' when your government directed me to fight their wars. I have lead hunting parties, and I have lead warriors into battle against these doubles - and it was the doubles who retreated. I won't tell you... I won't tell you that we are undefeatable... but uh..." His eyes search and look around. "The greatest tree in the forest may fall in a strong enough wind. So tell me, pony, what is it exactly that you can offer to 'prepare' us?"
He looks down at the water, and then up to Silver
"I don't imagine this is poison. Too many alternatives to make that your go-to" He stares flatly at Silver. "Unless you only intend to cause pain. Tear up internal organs. Or... A truth serum, perhaps..."
>>131652
"Get us 'prepared'?"
He moves his shoulder, which brings the rifle on the sling closer to the ground. He uses his muzzle to place it there. Spark can see that it's smoothly lathed and sanded hardwood, with a long scope, no bayonet mount, and a leather five round cartridge holder on the right side of the butt. The model, though pre-war, is fairly new, and while likely designed and sold as a civilian hunting rifle, it's hard to imagine what else a sniper would use but that kind of gun.
Makade looks up and at Spark with amber eyes
"I have hunted large game since I was a pup. I have gone through your pony 'basic training' when your government directed me to fight their wars. I have lead hunting parties, and I have lead warriors into battle against these doubles - and it was the doubles who retreated. I won't tell you... I won't tell you that we are undefeatable... but uh..." His eyes search and look around. "The greatest tree in the forest may fall in a strong enough wind. So tell me, pony, what is it exactly that you can offer to 'prepare' us?"
>>131655
Silver looks at him deadpan.
"Is water. Would it make you feel better if I had sip of it first?"
Silver looks at him deadpan.
"Is water. Would it make you feel better if I had sip of it first?"
>>131657
He lifts the drink up to his lips, takes an audible sip, then holds it again in front of Maakie's beak.
"There."
He lifts the drink up to his lips, takes an audible sip, then holds it again in front of Maakie's beak.
"There."
>>131658
He continues staring directly at Silver, but opens his beak to accept the water, and pulls the container closer to him with the hook of his beak. He drinks greedily, at one point pulling away and coughing. But before Silver can ask if he is 'okay,' he pulls his beak closer, and quickly drinks the remainder of the water.
He continues staring directly at Silver, but opens his beak to accept the water, and pulls the container closer to him with the hook of his beak. He drinks greedily, at one point pulling away and coughing. But before Silver can ask if he is 'okay,' he pulls his beak closer, and quickly drinks the remainder of the water.
>>131659
Silver asks him the question, "Better?", with a geniune concern in his voice despite his...dislike of the griffon in question.
Silver asks him the question, "Better?", with a geniune concern in his voice despite his...dislike of the griffon in question.
>>131658
For all its lack of ostentation, the Dominion Mining building still belongs to a style of architecture from an era where buildings had style and grace. It's stone facade is not particularly like those concrete monstrosities of the Brutalist school that look as much like prison walls as buildings. It's simply that, as a regional and not corporate headquarters, it lacks the adornment of the cathedrals of capitalism slightly west of city center.
The ponies and other creatures on the street do not say hello or wave as she passes, even as one or two ponies smiles or nod if eye contact is attempted most avoid it, and a few narrow their eyes. If Amber looks like a stranger, it seems that so does a third of the neighborhood. Many of those on the streets are creatures having no origin in Equestria, and many more are from the various cultures within Equestria, pony and non-pony alike. None of this stops Amber from getting a sense of what exactly is the 'norm,' and the local culture and custom, only it lets her know how it is being diluted. A particular style of hat and coat seems popular, with vertical stripes and grey color, even if most creatures have less clothing on than Amber.
Exactly what Amber will see or smell depends on just how far north she is relative to the district, but Amber does know this: the air has a somewhat polluted smell, with coal dust and chemical fumes. The smell of salt is light, though not wholly absent.
>>131661
And staring at him he asks
"What is it you want?"
For all its lack of ostentation, the Dominion Mining building still belongs to a style of architecture from an era where buildings had style and grace. It's stone facade is not particularly like those concrete monstrosities of the Brutalist school that look as much like prison walls as buildings. It's simply that, as a regional and not corporate headquarters, it lacks the adornment of the cathedrals of capitalism slightly west of city center.
The ponies and other creatures on the street do not say hello or wave as she passes, even as one or two ponies smiles or nod if eye contact is attempted most avoid it, and a few narrow their eyes. If Amber looks like a stranger, it seems that so does a third of the neighborhood. Many of those on the streets are creatures having no origin in Equestria, and many more are from the various cultures within Equestria, pony and non-pony alike. None of this stops Amber from getting a sense of what exactly is the 'norm,' and the local culture and custom, only it lets her know how it is being diluted. A particular style of hat and coat seems popular, with vertical stripes and grey color, even if most creatures have less clothing on than Amber.
Exactly what Amber will see or smell depends on just how far north she is relative to the district, but Amber does know this: the air has a somewhat polluted smell, with coal dust and chemical fumes. The smell of salt is light, though not wholly absent.
>>131661
And staring at him he asks
"What is it you want?"
>>131662
Well, the place is certainly not appealing to Amber, to say the very least, and she starts to question why she came here in the first place. Nonetheless, she's going to make the most of it. Would she know how to reach the sea?
Well, the place is certainly not appealing to Amber, to say the very least, and she starts to question why she came here in the first place. Nonetheless, she's going to make the most of it. Would she know how to reach the sea?
>>131671
Amber doesn't know her precise positioning either, only that she's quite a ways south of the Dominion Mining Company. However, she reasons that since Baltimare juts out into the water on the northeast end, just going east from here ought to reach the sea.
Amber doesn't know her precise positioning either, only that she's quite a ways south of the Dominion Mining Company. However, she reasons that since Baltimare juts out into the water on the northeast end, just going east from here ought to reach the sea.
[1d20-1 = 7]
>>131671
Sense Motive: "Hmm. And I do suppose that also includes putting end to your previous 'activities'?"
>>131671
Sense Motive: "Hmm. And I do suppose that also includes putting end to your previous 'activities'?"
>>131672
Going towards the water, Amber finds that the area closest to the water is dominated by industry and especially warehouses. A significant portion of the eastern waterline, maybe even as much as half, is take up by wharves of some kind or other, be they for deep water cargo, barge terminals, or liquids. Amber is able to walk around a warehouse, and to a shop that seems to be related to fishing on the waterfront, and which itself has a dock with a couple small boats tied up.
>>131673
"Ugh, you've already done that." He seems a little scared, and Silver can't really tell his level of sincerity
Going towards the water, Amber finds that the area closest to the water is dominated by industry and especially warehouses. A significant portion of the eastern waterline, maybe even as much as half, is take up by wharves of some kind or other, be they for deep water cargo, barge terminals, or liquids. Amber is able to walk around a warehouse, and to a shop that seems to be related to fishing on the waterfront, and which itself has a dock with a couple small boats tied up.
>>131673
"Ugh, you've already done that." He seems a little scared, and Silver can't really tell his level of sincerity
>>131675
I wasn't expecting to find a fisherpony's wharf among all these buildings, but maybe that's not unusual here.
Amber tentatively walks to the dock, looking at the activity (or lack thereof) around her then at the waves below.
I wasn't expecting to find a fisherpony's wharf among all these buildings, but maybe that's not unusual here.
Amber tentatively walks to the dock, looking at the activity (or lack thereof) around her then at the waves below.
>>131676
Best guess is a dock other creatures have tied up to. One motor boat of unknown purpose and a small sail boat. The waves are a green-tinted blue, and a few feet in height. It looks like high tide. There's a seawall right along the shore line, and the dock is actually a step or two down from that. There are other creatures around, but they pay her no mind
>>131677
Sense motive is a wisdom based check
"What? What I 'did here'? That was Boek's doing, not mine. I am a smuggler - was a smuggler. What do you want?"
Best guess is a dock other creatures have tied up to. One motor boat of unknown purpose and a small sail boat. The waves are a green-tinted blue, and a few feet in height. It looks like high tide. There's a seawall right along the shore line, and the dock is actually a step or two down from that. There are other creatures around, but they pay her no mind
>>131677
Sense motive is a wisdom based check
"What? What I 'did here'? That was Boek's doing, not mine. I am a smuggler - was a smuggler. What do you want?"
>>131679
She watches the waves break against the seawall for half a minute before deciding to step onto the dock. She steps down only with her forehooves at first, making sure the old wooden structure is safe before continuing onwards. She approaches the sailboat first, but not so close that it looks like she's trespassing or interfering with its operation.
She watches the waves break against the seawall for half a minute before deciding to step onto the dock. She steps down only with her forehooves at first, making sure the old wooden structure is safe before continuing onwards. She approaches the sailboat first, but not so close that it looks like she's trespassing or interfering with its operation.
>>131680
"No. No. No... We provided a service by ferrying creatures across to where they wanted to be, taking them around customs and their own governments. Of course they didn't usually have the money upfront so they would work after they arrived to pay us. 'Indentured servitude,' your people used to call it. You know how it works. But it's hard to keep track of them that long and the local gangs here didn't cooperate much on that. That's why I wanted this building. It was built for that. So I rented it out, and then I found a group of griffins wanting to travel out of the Herzland... The owner took an interest, and, well, every now and then a migrant wouldn't be able to work, or wouldn't want to work. And then later we would just start taking those who couldn't pay us back. It's a bit... slippery... but I was just a trafficker, or a sweatshop owner. There are many sweatshop owners out there. I am just a businessgriff, same as your 'legitimate' entrepreneurs. That is what you must understand..."
>>131681
The dock is perfectly solid. The sailboat is wooden, and covered in a white paint. Maybe 25 feet. It's probably a private pleasure boat, but it can definitely be used for fishing.
"No. No. No... We provided a service by ferrying creatures across to where they wanted to be, taking them around customs and their own governments. Of course they didn't usually have the money upfront so they would work after they arrived to pay us. 'Indentured servitude,' your people used to call it. You know how it works. But it's hard to keep track of them that long and the local gangs here didn't cooperate much on that. That's why I wanted this building. It was built for that. So I rented it out, and then I found a group of griffins wanting to travel out of the Herzland... The owner took an interest, and, well, every now and then a migrant wouldn't be able to work, or wouldn't want to work. And then later we would just start taking those who couldn't pay us back. It's a bit... slippery... but I was just a trafficker, or a sweatshop owner. There are many sweatshop owners out there. I am just a businessgriff, same as your 'legitimate' entrepreneurs. That is what you must understand..."
>>131681
The dock is perfectly solid. The sailboat is wooden, and covered in a white paint. Maybe 25 feet. It's probably a private pleasure boat, but it can definitely be used for fishing.
>>131682
Is there anypony on or near the sailboat who is visible or can be heard from the dock? If not Amber will go to the motorboat.
Is there anypony on or near the sailboat who is visible or can be heard from the dock? If not Amber will go to the motorboat.
>>131690
"I just do not want anything even remotely like this happening again if I let you go."
Silver inspects Maakie's wounds, while he's there.
"I just do not want anything even remotely like this happening again if I let you go."
Silver inspects Maakie's wounds, while he's there.
>>131691
He is wounded pretty badly with multiple stabs and cuts, and has lost a lot of blood. All of his wounds are covered in matter feathers, fur or clothes soaked in blood.
He is wounded pretty badly with multiple stabs and cuts, and has lost a lot of blood. All of his wounds are covered in matter feathers, fur or clothes soaked in blood.
File (): 7BAA068895EC2F91BE9828239AFA4C7C-181688.png (177.4 KB, 720x669, 2D894DAD-1A7F-46FB-96FA-DEC679C7E098.png)
Okay ponies, who is here this weekend?
>>131687
Through the tinted brown glass of the motor boat's cabin, Amber can see the face of a unicorn move up. She's a bright white, with a mane that might be some shade of orange, hard to tell through the tint, and she seems to be very young. A filly.
Through the tinted brown glass of the motor boat's cabin, Amber can see the face of a unicorn move up. She's a bright white, with a mane that might be some shade of orange, hard to tell through the tint, and she seems to be very young. A filly.
>>131727
She looks back at her with a blank, perhaps even scared expression, keeping her head in that position for a number of seconds. Then she moves her head to the side, and to where a wall blocks Amber's vision of her
She looks back at her with a blank, perhaps even scared expression, keeping her head in that position for a number of seconds. Then she moves her head to the side, and to where a wall blocks Amber's vision of her
>>131693
"Can I make it? Make where? As it is, I am likely to become infected. What do you mean 'can I make it'?"
"Can I make it? Make where? As it is, I am likely to become infected. What do you mean 'can I make it'?"
Amber frowns and puts her hoof back down. Did I scare her? She decides to wait in place for a little while to see what happens and starts to whistle a little ditty.
>>131732
Now, the Unicorn stands up, and moves to the already open door on the cabin, and pokes her head out. Her mane is burnt orange and definitely well enough groomed. Her purple eyes stare almost blankly at Amber with trimmed eye lashes. She is definitely much younger than Amber, appearing to be an adolescent.
Now, the Unicorn stands up, and moves to the already open door on the cabin, and pokes her head out. Her mane is burnt orange and definitely well enough groomed. Her purple eyes stare almost blankly at Amber with trimmed eye lashes. She is definitely much younger than Amber, appearing to be an adolescent.
>>131733
Amber stays where she is but asks, hopefully loud enough to be heard, "Is this your boat? It's really nice."
Amber stays where she is but asks, hopefully loud enough to be heard, "Is this your boat? It's really nice."
>>131734
She turns her head, looking at Amber awkwardly. She speaks to her, with a kind of quick partly afraid, partly defensive, and partly annoyed voice
“No. But I am here with the permission of the owner.”
She turns her head, looking at Amber awkwardly. She speaks to her, with a kind of quick partly afraid, partly defensive, and partly annoyed voice
“No. But I am here with the permission of the owner.”
I can't help but imagine a posh British child's accent with that use of language
>>131735
Amber is looking a bit awkward and uncertain. "Oh, I just found this dock and wanted to look at the boats. I've never been to sea myself, you see."
>>131735
Amber is looking a bit awkward and uncertain. "Oh, I just found this dock and wanted to look at the boats. I've never been to sea myself, you see."
>>131737
"Oh, I don't have a doubt about that! Don't worry though, I just wanted to look and not touch. Do you go sailing much?"
"Oh, I don't have a doubt about that! Don't worry though, I just wanted to look and not touch. Do you go sailing much?"
>>131729
"Can you make it to where you are wanting to go without dying?, or will you need medical treatment?"
"Can you make it to where you are wanting to go without dying?, or will you need medical treatment?"
>>131741
She remains standing in that position with her body sideways across the entryway
“Well” she turns her head, looking away
“Not all that pleasant. The boat rocks a lot, for one thing. Makes me feel queasy. Then there’s the smell of the sea. It was kind of tense. I like being on solid ground.”
She remains standing in that position with her body sideways across the entryway
“Well” she turns her head, looking away
“Not all that pleasant. The boat rocks a lot, for one thing. Makes me feel queasy. Then there’s the smell of the sea. It was kind of tense. I like being on solid ground.”
>>131742
Amber nods. "I agree and even heroes in adventure novels sometimes get seasick. If you don't mind my asking, how did you get your cutie mark? I've never seen anything quite like it."
Amber nods. "I agree and even heroes in adventure novels sometimes get seasick. If you don't mind my asking, how did you get your cutie mark? I've never seen anything quite like it."
>>131743
She turns her head, and looks away, then down, until her eyes fix on what seems to be a spot in the wooden planks of the pier, or perhaps past it
"I remember that day" her voice takes on a lighter tone. "There was a storm. Spun off a hurricane further south. I was with a large group of foals in a room on the lower level. It had been used for laundry, there were no windows. I ended up mixed with some of the younger foals. The wind rattled and shoo the walls. Then came the lightning. The thunder was almost constant, like a rolling barrage. When the shelling came two years later, well, it was a lot like that. There were two nuns with us in the laundry room, but there was a leak or a broken window, or something, they had to leave, and I was one of the oldest left in the room. The young colts and fillies... They couldn't really handle it, with no adults in the room. Some of them curled up in shirts and sheets and other assorted dirty clothing. That only made them feel a little better. So I went up to them, and sang to them the hymm of the Gusty the Great, then the ballad of Airy Jade. I picked up one colt, I could tell that colt, with the little brown patch around the eye, he never quite accepted that his mother wasn't coming to get him - I picked him up, and rocked him, like I saw a nun do with a younger child. He was actually too old for that kind of thing, but it was an unusual circumstance. I tried to comfort him. They all needed comforting when one of the two candles went out. Room was almost completely dark, they didn't like that. But I started to tell a story, the one about Mist Mark and the cave, and they listened as best as they could, and then eventually another colt started speaking as well, until we had something like a campfire story circle going, occasionally singing songs. Most of the younger foals didn't say anything. Some of them tried to sing but they only knew one or two lines that they kept repeating, They weren't crying any more. We older fillies and colts kept telling stories, until eventually the thunder stopped and it was just wind. Many of the foals went to sleep. Some hours later, we were able to go outside. The old oak tree had fallen over in the wind, but we were still there. I saw the light break through the clouds in the sky. It wasn't the 'eye' but I imagine it was something like that. And then Cinnamon Drop told me 'your cutie mark!' and I saw that the sun with the golden rays had appeared on my flank. And several of the foals came up to me, and huddled around me. I remember that day..."
Her face has migrated upwards, pointing towards the sky, mostly blue with some clouds. She has a tear or two in her eyes.
She turns her head, and looks away, then down, until her eyes fix on what seems to be a spot in the wooden planks of the pier, or perhaps past it
"I remember that day" her voice takes on a lighter tone. "There was a storm. Spun off a hurricane further south. I was with a large group of foals in a room on the lower level. It had been used for laundry, there were no windows. I ended up mixed with some of the younger foals. The wind rattled and shoo the walls. Then came the lightning. The thunder was almost constant, like a rolling barrage. When the shelling came two years later, well, it was a lot like that. There were two nuns with us in the laundry room, but there was a leak or a broken window, or something, they had to leave, and I was one of the oldest left in the room. The young colts and fillies... They couldn't really handle it, with no adults in the room. Some of them curled up in shirts and sheets and other assorted dirty clothing. That only made them feel a little better. So I went up to them, and sang to them the hymm of the Gusty the Great, then the ballad of Airy Jade. I picked up one colt, I could tell that colt, with the little brown patch around the eye, he never quite accepted that his mother wasn't coming to get him - I picked him up, and rocked him, like I saw a nun do with a younger child. He was actually too old for that kind of thing, but it was an unusual circumstance. I tried to comfort him. They all needed comforting when one of the two candles went out. Room was almost completely dark, they didn't like that. But I started to tell a story, the one about Mist Mark and the cave, and they listened as best as they could, and then eventually another colt started speaking as well, until we had something like a campfire story circle going, occasionally singing songs. Most of the younger foals didn't say anything. Some of them tried to sing but they only knew one or two lines that they kept repeating, They weren't crying any more. We older fillies and colts kept telling stories, until eventually the thunder stopped and it was just wind. Many of the foals went to sleep. Some hours later, we were able to go outside. The old oak tree had fallen over in the wind, but we were still there. I saw the light break through the clouds in the sky. It wasn't the 'eye' but I imagine it was something like that. And then Cinnamon Drop told me 'your cutie mark!' and I saw that the sun with the golden rays had appeared on my flank. And several of the foals came up to me, and huddled around me. I remember that day..."
Her face has migrated upwards, pointing towards the sky, mostly blue with some clouds. She has a tear or two in her eyes.
>>131740
He seriously weighs his options before looking at Maakie.
"Unless you would rather go to hospital, if you know of hiding place I can go and get medical supplies for you."
He seriously weighs his options before looking at Maakie.
"Unless you would rather go to hospital, if you know of hiding place I can go and get medical supplies for you."
>>131746
"Alright. Follow me closely, there are couple officers patrolling hallways."
Silver uses his knife to cut Maakie's bindings, helps him up, and pokes his head out into the hallway to see if the way is clear.
"Alright. Follow me closely, there are couple officers patrolling hallways."
Silver uses his knife to cut Maakie's bindings, helps him up, and pokes his head out into the hallway to see if the way is clear.
>>131747
There is indeed movement in hallways, more so upstairs, with the lower level being more or less un-patrolled.
There is indeed movement in hallways, more so upstairs, with the lower level being more or less un-patrolled.
I thought her cutie mark was a submarine which was why it caught my interest. Next time you want me to ask about a character's cutie mark just "accidentally" misspell it as something atypical.
>>131744
Amber leans forward during the monologue, nodding with interest. When the filly is done she closes her eyes and claps her hooves together. "What a great story! I can tell you definitely have a talent for telling stories, especially to cheer ponies up.
Princess Celestia's cutie mark is kind of similar, do you think she got it the same way?"
I suppose I could roll for knowledge for Celestia's cutie mark, though I dunno if it should be history or religion. I'm happy hearing from a character though
>>131744
Amber leans forward during the monologue, nodding with interest. When the filly is done she closes her eyes and claps her hooves together. "What a great story! I can tell you definitely have a talent for telling stories, especially to cheer ponies up.
Princess Celestia's cutie mark is kind of similar, do you think she got it the same way?"
I suppose I could roll for knowledge for Celestia's cutie mark, though I dunno if it should be history or religion. I'm happy hearing from a character though
>>131748
Silver decides to lead Maakie out the back way, out to the water. He keeps an eye out for patrols and lets Maakie know when it's safe to move.
Silver decides to lead Maakie out the back way, out to the water. He keeps an eye out for patrols and lets Maakie know when it's safe to move.
>>131749
Reee
“Well, I mean hers is a sun with smaller rays and a larger, well, sun. A larger sun and mine, you see, has straighter and longer rays... I always thought that Celestia always had that cutie mark. Like, I don’t think there was a moment when she was a filly and she just willed the sun to move in the sky. I can’t imagine her as a filly.”
>>131750
What kind of restraints does silver keep on Maakie?
Reee
“Well, I mean hers is a sun with smaller rays and a larger, well, sun. A larger sun and mine, you see, has straighter and longer rays... I always thought that Celestia always had that cutie mark. Like, I don’t think there was a moment when she was a filly and she just willed the sun to move in the sky. I can’t imagine her as a filly.”
>>131750
What kind of restraints does silver keep on Maakie?
>>131751
Amber nods. "I think you're right. Celestia is…well, a celestial being and I think special rules apply to her. Destiny was always something she could fulfill."
She looks over the motorboat. Is it particularly large and what color is it?
"Are you the coxswain of the ship or is it family taking you around?"
Amber nods. "I think you're right. Celestia is…well, a celestial being and I think special rules apply to her. Destiny was always something she could fulfill."
She looks over the motorboat. Is it particularly large and what color is it?
"Are you the coxswain of the ship or is it family taking you around?"
>>131752
Silver - presumably - cuts or unties the bindings on Maakie's claws. Loputu's rope was tied rather thoroughly, and prevented him from moving much at all. It unties easily with pulling the rope in the right few places.
Before this, Mala stayed very close to Maakie, above him in a rather dominating position. But as soon as the restraints are untied, Mala jumps back and away to a new position of about five to seven feet at minimum, staying closer to Silver and sometimes behind him.
Maakie stands up on his forelegs, opens and stretches his wings, and then stands up on his hindlegs when those were undone. His wings, pepper gray and white tipped, stretch to an extent, before the left wing learns that it cannot extend its full length, and he has to stop. Likewise for a hind leg that will not stretch all the way out. Even standing, he has to lean to a side, and any walk has a definite limp. He quickly looks around at his surroundings, surveying with determination and anger.
>>131753
"Not so fulfilled anymore does she. There was a colt I knew who said that she was not any kind of divine being, just a pony the others appointed princess. I think in his mind that made her even more special, because who else can say that they were so liked that everypony else basically voted for them to be princess forever? Well, to me it sounded less special. I liked to think that she never had a mom or dad, but she was kind of just alone there with her sister, and even that didn't last, so she was just kind of there all on her lonesome, and no pony in all of Equestria to call her equal or her family. But I don't know... I don't think about it too much any more."
She turns her eyes back towards Amber
"Cock what? Uh, no... it uh, well it's an aunt of mine, you see who owns it, and I was checking it for them."
Silver - presumably - cuts or unties the bindings on Maakie's claws. Loputu's rope was tied rather thoroughly, and prevented him from moving much at all. It unties easily with pulling the rope in the right few places.
Before this, Mala stayed very close to Maakie, above him in a rather dominating position. But as soon as the restraints are untied, Mala jumps back and away to a new position of about five to seven feet at minimum, staying closer to Silver and sometimes behind him.
Maakie stands up on his forelegs, opens and stretches his wings, and then stands up on his hindlegs when those were undone. His wings, pepper gray and white tipped, stretch to an extent, before the left wing learns that it cannot extend its full length, and he has to stop. Likewise for a hind leg that will not stretch all the way out. Even standing, he has to lean to a side, and any walk has a definite limp. He quickly looks around at his surroundings, surveying with determination and anger.
>>131753
"Not so fulfilled anymore does she. There was a colt I knew who said that she was not any kind of divine being, just a pony the others appointed princess. I think in his mind that made her even more special, because who else can say that they were so liked that everypony else basically voted for them to be princess forever? Well, to me it sounded less special. I liked to think that she never had a mom or dad, but she was kind of just alone there with her sister, and even that didn't last, so she was just kind of there all on her lonesome, and no pony in all of Equestria to call her equal or her family. But I don't know... I don't think about it too much any more."
She turns her eyes back towards Amber
"Cock what? Uh, no... it uh, well it's an aunt of mine, you see who owns it, and I was checking it for them."
>>131754
Amber looks curious. "Checking for what? Maybe leaks? Also, are you sure it's safe to come here alone? The neighborhood looks very, erm, unwelcoming. Is your aunt nearby?
Amber looks curious. "Checking for what? Maybe leaks? Also, are you sure it's safe to come here alone? The neighborhood looks very, erm, unwelcoming. Is your aunt nearby?
>>131755
"Well, you know... make sure everything's in order. It's not really safe alone or in groups, but I know she will protect me and keep me from coming to harm. The neighborhood can welcoming if only you are coming from any meeting the right sort of ponies. She's a few blocks away."
>>131756
Mala looks back, then drops to the side, then looks back again and drops back further, and then drops to the back with resignation. Maakie looks behind at Mala, and only then moves forward, limping.
"Well, you know... make sure everything's in order. It's not really safe alone or in groups, but I know she will protect me and keep me from coming to harm. The neighborhood can welcoming if only you are coming from any meeting the right sort of ponies. She's a few blocks away."
>>131756
Mala looks back, then drops to the side, then looks back again and drops back further, and then drops to the back with resignation. Maakie looks behind at Mala, and only then moves forward, limping.
>>131757
Silver keeps going until they reach the rear exit, keeping an eye out for patrols along the way.
Silver keeps going until they reach the rear exit, keeping an eye out for patrols along the way.
>>131758
There are no visible patrol ships at this time, at least that are deep in the harbor as opposed to the mouth of the bay
There are no visible patrol ships at this time, at least that are deep in the harbor as opposed to the mouth of the bay
>>131759
Silver motions for Maakie to follow him out along the edge of the water. He keeps going along the seawall until he feels it's safe, then he climbs up out of the water.
Silver motions for Maakie to follow him out along the edge of the water. He keeps going along the seawall until he feels it's safe, then he climbs up out of the water.
>>131760
He has an air of indignity about him, looking up at Silver and limping out. Mala keeps distance behind them
He has an air of indignity about him, looking up at Silver and limping out. Mala keeps distance behind them
>>131769
Silver's ears fold back at hearing the address mentioned.
"...going there might not be best idea..."
Silver's ears fold back at hearing the address mentioned.
"...going there might not be best idea..."
>>131775
"Ah. It is not so safehouse anymore. I do not suppose you have any other safehouses around?"
"Ah. It is not so safehouse anymore. I do not suppose you have any other safehouses around?"
>>131778
He continues staring, with narrowed eyes, turning his head back around to look back to Mala, who moves a step back
He continues staring, with narrowed eyes, turning his head back around to look back to Mala, who moves a step back
>>131779
Silver lets out a sigh.
"If I wanted you dead, I would have already killed you, or left you down there. If I wanted money, I would have turned you in. I understand why you are skeptical, but it would not make sense for me to go to all of this trouble just to kill you and rob you."
Silver lets out a sigh.
"If I wanted you dead, I would have already killed you, or left you down there. If I wanted money, I would have turned you in. I understand why you are skeptical, but it would not make sense for me to go to all of this trouble just to kill you and rob you."
>>131781
"Right now, trying to get you to safety, under hope that you have, err...well, learn lesson, for lack of better term."
"Right now, trying to get you to safety, under hope that you have, err...well, learn lesson, for lack of better term."
>>131784
"Nevermind. Its your initiative, ..." He sounds as if he was going to end that sentence with some kind of name or term, but never found the word
"Nevermind. Its your initiative, ..." He sounds as if he was going to end that sentence with some kind of name or term, but never found the word
>>131789
Silver looks to Mala, then to Maakie.
"Well...unless you would rather some officer on patrol come across us, let us go there."
Silver looks to Mala, then to Maakie.
"Well...unless you would rather some officer on patrol come across us, let us go there."
>>131757
"I think I know what you mean. You know the area much better than I do. Your aunt must really like sailing, then.
Is she an adventurer?"
"I think I know what you mean. You know the area much better than I do. Your aunt must really like sailing, then.
Is she an adventurer?"
>>131793
"Only kind of... she leaves the sailing to others most of the time, and stays on land"
>>131792
It's not a perfectly straight forward process leaving the property. Going into the room with the cage past where Mala and Zwolf were found, the cage where the gnolls were placed is now empty and open. The rowboat is still there. The area is dark, and Mala is uncomfortable about Maakie marching through a location with dim light. It's more than a little hassle to get him through the tunnel, but he can be taken out. There are no ships patrolling so close to the shore at this time, and they can move off the property easily enough. It's when they get next door that they find the next issue
Mala:
"His cuts and scars show. He might need a cloak or something to hide him."
"Only kind of... she leaves the sailing to others most of the time, and stays on land"
>>131792
It's not a perfectly straight forward process leaving the property. Going into the room with the cage past where Mala and Zwolf were found, the cage where the gnolls were placed is now empty and open. The rowboat is still there. The area is dark, and Mala is uncomfortable about Maakie marching through a location with dim light. It's more than a little hassle to get him through the tunnel, but he can be taken out. There are no ships patrolling so close to the shore at this time, and they can move off the property easily enough. It's when they get next door that they find the next issue
Mala:
"His cuts and scars show. He might need a cloak or something to hide him."
>>131794
Amber looks puzzled. "Then who goes sailing most of the time? It's too nice of a boat not to use."
Amber looks puzzled. "Then who goes sailing most of the time? It's too nice of a boat not to use."
>>131796
"He needs a coat, I think. Something to cover his injuries. Unless we had a car, or a covered cart."
"He needs a coat, I think. Something to cover his injuries. Unless we had a car, or a covered cart."
>>131797
Amber scratches at her mane under her scarf. "Hmm, well, I won't pry. What do you normally do on days like this?"
Amber scratches at her mane under her scarf. "Hmm, well, I won't pry. What do you normally do on days like this?"
>>131801
Mala places a paw on Silver
"But what if the driver sees the cuts on him. He will think there was a stabbing, or some kind of gang fight"
Mala places a paw on Silver
"But what if the driver sees the cuts on him. He will think there was a stabbing, or some kind of gang fight"
>>131800
"I mean, on ordinary weekdays assuming it's a weekday what do you do other than check on your aunt's boat?"
"I mean, on ordinary weekdays assuming it's a weekday what do you do other than check on your aunt's boat?"
>>131802
He looks back to Mala.
"It is not as if I have cloak, car, or cart. I can not see better idea, unless you have one."
He looks back to Mala.
"It is not as if I have cloak, car, or cart. I can not see better idea, unless you have one."
>>131805
Amber smiles. "That's very similar to what I'm doing, or rather what I'm going to do. I'll be working in a clothing store.
What sort of things do you sell?"
Amber smiles. "That's very similar to what I'm doing, or rather what I'm going to do. I'll be working in a clothing store.
What sort of things do you sell?"
>>131807
"I just came to town today and I hardly know anypony here. It's hard to adjust to life around here because where I'm from everypony knows everypony else."
"I just came to town today and I hardly know anypony here. It's hard to adjust to life around here because where I'm from everypony knows everypony else."
Amber looks puzzled. "How do I know who the right ponies to know are? I did meet an acolyte at St. Eligius but for the most part everypony is a little distant."
>>131811
"Saint Eligius... Yes, I've heard of them. Might have met them, I am not sure. You will know once you know them. Or maybe before. Ponies here do tend to be distant. It's not like a small town. Too big. They don't all come from the same place, and they aren't going to the same place."
"Saint Eligius... Yes, I've heard of them. Might have met them, I am not sure. You will know once you know them. Or maybe before. Ponies here do tend to be distant. It's not like a small town. Too big. They don't all come from the same place, and they aren't going to the same place."
>>131812
"Um, okay. I did notice how so much is completely different. I just came to the northeast 'ere because I wanted to know what are worthwhile places to visit…besides the sea, that is."
"Um, okay. I did notice how so much is completely different. I just came to the northeast 'ere because I wanted to know what are worthwhile places to visit…besides the sea, that is."
>>131813
"Oh yeah, there are plenty. There's Tallend Tavern, Gurando's Giros, and many other restaurants out there. Night clubs... There's the the carnival on the pier, the zoo, the old fort... many things. And that's besides the fun you can make on your own."
"Oh yeah, there are plenty. There's Tallend Tavern, Gurando's Giros, and many other restaurants out there. Night clubs... There's the the carnival on the pier, the zoo, the old fort... many things. And that's besides the fun you can make on your own."
>>131815
"Well, I've only really just come to know them, but I've learned a lot since then. I'm a quick learner."
"Well, I've only really just come to know them, but I've learned a lot since then. I'm a quick learner."
>>131816
"That's nice. You must get out a lot, then. Maybe you've even discovered shortcuts and secret passages?"
"That's nice. You must get out a lot, then. Maybe you've even discovered shortcuts and secret passages?"
>>131818
"Well, in the woods you have the main path, but you also have trails which can save a lot of time. I imagine it's the same here with roads."
"Well, in the woods you have the main path, but you also have trails which can save a lot of time. I imagine it's the same here with roads."
>>131819
"Sorta. There are some alleyways that cut through. Many of the older buildings especially have things like inner courtyards that you can go through and cut across the block. A few buildings you can cut through inside, just walking through doors, and some of them are abandoned now because of damage."
"Sorta. There are some alleyways that cut through. Many of the older buildings especially have things like inner courtyards that you can go through and cut across the block. A few buildings you can cut through inside, just walking through doors, and some of them are abandoned now because of damage."
>>131822
"I guess we're in the same boat then." She inadvertently chuckles at the unintentional wordplay. "I'm Amber, by the way. Amber Sunset."
"I guess we're in the same boat then." She inadvertently chuckles at the unintentional wordplay. "I'm Amber, by the way. Amber Sunset."
>>131823
She pauses for a moment, and then another moment, seeming to not answer.
Then she blinks
"Golden Rays"
She pauses for a moment, and then another moment, seeming to not answer.
Then she blinks
"Golden Rays"
>>131824
Amber is wearing a beaming smile. "That's such a lovely name! You're blessed to have one like that."
Amber is wearing a beaming smile. "That's such a lovely name! You're blessed to have one like that."
>>131826
Amber gestures out to sea. "Do a lot of ponies go fishing? I do know that a lot of freighters come through Baltimare."
Amber gestures out to sea. "Do a lot of ponies go fishing? I do know that a lot of freighters come through Baltimare."
>>131827
"I don't really know. I know there are some ponies around here who go fishing, and many more griffins as well, but I don't really know how many."
"I don't really know. I know there are some ponies around here who go fishing, and many more griffins as well, but I don't really know how many."
>>131828
Amber nods. "I have time to visit a couple more places before the day is up and I have to go to work tomorrow.
Is there someplace you especially recommend?
Amber nods. "I have time to visit a couple more places before the day is up and I have to go to work tomorrow.
Is there someplace you especially recommend?
>>131830
Amber blinks, frowning. "I…don't really know? Adventure? Maybe meeting other ponies, or a place with music?" She blushes slightly. "I like exploring the world, but I'm not very good at charting my own course."
Amber blinks, frowning. "I…don't really know? Adventure? Maybe meeting other ponies, or a place with music?" She blushes slightly. "I like exploring the world, but I'm not very good at charting my own course."
>>131831
"Oh yeah, there are several nice nightclubs you can go to. There's dancing, and bands play music there. There's also stallions. The Coconut Cove, for instance."
"Oh yeah, there are several nice nightclubs you can go to. There's dancing, and bands play music there. There's also stallions. The Coconut Cove, for instance."
>>131832
"Do you know how I can get there, and when they're open?" She looks at the dock's boards with mild embarrassment. "Also, I don't have any money on me."
"Do you know how I can get there, and when they're open?" She looks at the dock's boards with mild embarrassment. "Also, I don't have any money on me."
>>131833
"Well, the 'no money' thing is a problem. But they are open much of the day, and play their best music late at night. They are on Prance avenue, just a few blocks south of the public gardens.
"Well, the 'no money' thing is a problem. But they are open much of the day, and play their best music late at night. They are on Prance avenue, just a few blocks south of the public gardens.
Amber frowns when 'late at night' is mentioned. "I have to be in bed early, but I'll keep that in mind when I have more free time. What about a place where I don't have to spend money to have a good time?"
>>131835
"Haha! Oh. You're serious, well... go to a bar, I think a lot of the mares get stallions to buy their drinks for them. Actually that'll probably work at the night clubs. There isn't always an entry fee. Uh... the zoo has a low admission cost, same with other public stuff like the fort... There is some beach front as well, that's generally free."
"Haha! Oh. You're serious, well... go to a bar, I think a lot of the mares get stallions to buy their drinks for them. Actually that'll probably work at the night clubs. There isn't always an entry fee. Uh... the zoo has a low admission cost, same with other public stuff like the fort... There is some beach front as well, that's generally free."
Amber reddens a bit more. "Yes…erm, well, I don't know if I would meet the right sort of ponies in a bar and, well, it's a little late to go to the zoo today. Maybe there's an interesting landmark I could visit around here?"
>>131837
"Well, there's the mansion, the old fort, the lighthouse, the shot tower... There's the picture shows! And some of the restaurants have live music"
"Well, there's the mansion, the old fort, the lighthouse, the shot tower... There's the picture shows! And some of the restaurants have live music"
>>131838
Amber resumes her smile as she exclaims, "That's swell!" She pauses for a second before continuing: "The mansion and the old fort sound particularly interesting, what can you tell me about them?"
Amber resumes her smile as she exclaims, "That's swell!" She pauses for a second before continuing: "The mansion and the old fort sound particularly interesting, what can you tell me about them?"
>>131839
"Well, the mansion I've never been to. The fort I went to a few years ago with a school group. There's walls and cannons and an old battle and well... it's more of a colt thing. The city keeps some of these old buildings around for some reason."
"Well, the mansion I've never been to. The fort I went to a few years ago with a school group. There's walls and cannons and an old battle and well... it's more of a colt thing. The city keeps some of these old buildings around for some reason."
>>131840
"I've always liked history and I think it would be disrespectful if I didn't make an attempt to learn more about my new home. Do you how I can get to these two places?"
"I've always liked history and I think it would be disrespectful if I didn't make an attempt to learn more about my new home. Do you how I can get to these two places?"
>>131841
"Well, both are along the water here. One is just up the road, actually, and the fort is on that small peninsula down there. There are some other houses from important people, they just aren't right here on the water."
"Well, both are along the water here. One is just up the road, actually, and the fort is on that small peninsula down there. There are some other houses from important people, they just aren't right here on the water."
Amber grins. "Thank you, I hope I find something interesting. When can I find you here at the dock, if, you know, you want to meet up again sometime?"
>>131843
"Meet up somewhere...? Oh, I don't know, maybe about sunset, Or, you can come to Curio's Corner on Westhaven."
"Meet up somewhere...? Oh, I don't know, maybe about sunset, Or, you can come to Curio's Corner on Westhaven."
>>131846
"Not too far, then. Thank you, Golden, and have a great day!" Amber smiles broadly and waves goodbye, then trots to a place where she can move up the waterfront without too much obstruction. Once there she takes a swig of water from her canteen.
Alright, that's perfect timing.
"Not too far, then. Thank you, Golden, and have a great day!" Amber smiles broadly and waves goodbye, then trots to a place where she can move up the waterfront without too much obstruction. Once there she takes a swig of water from her canteen.
Alright, that's perfect timing.
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Ponies?
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Is anypony here today?
>>131856
>>131866
Hi pony!
Silver's last post is >>131810
>>131851
Yes
>>131847
A roadway follows along the waterfront. It's not directly by the waterfront, as there are plots on the water, and buildings often obscure the view of the bay, but it does follow along perhaps a hundred yards or less from the water.
>>131866
Hi pony!
Silver's last post is >>131810
>>131851
Yes
>>131847
A roadway follows along the waterfront. It's not directly by the waterfront, as there are plots on the water, and buildings often obscure the view of the bay, but it does follow along perhaps a hundred yards or less from the water.
>>131869
Silver looks over to Maakie, and speaks to him after a couple moments of silence.
"I do not suppose you could answer question for me?"
Silver looks over to Maakie, and speaks to him after a couple moments of silence.
"I do not suppose you could answer question for me?"
>>131870
Through little can be read from his beak, his eyes are slightly narrowed.
"And that question is?"
Through little can be read from his beak, his eyes are slightly narrowed.
"And that question is?"
>>131871
"Your former servant, Undertow, do you happen to know what happened to her friend when she was captured?"
"Your former servant, Undertow, do you happen to know what happened to her friend when she was captured?"
>>131873
Silver sighs sadly in response.
"I suppose that gives answer. She was with friend in college when they were ambushed and captured at night, and they were separated when they were brought here."
Silver sighs sadly in response.
"I suppose that gives answer. She was with friend in college when they were ambushed and captured at night, and they were separated when they were brought here."
>>131874
He pulls the thin lips behind his beak back in what must be a smile, and his eyes light up
"You are talking about the hippogriff, right? Red, dolphin necklace?"
He pulls the thin lips behind his beak back in what must be a smile, and his eyes light up
"You are talking about the hippogriff, right? Red, dolphin necklace?"
>>131878
He rocks slightly, back and forth, with as a big of a smile as his limited face muscles will allow. He looks a bit like a school child, filled with glee at the idea of being the sole member of a group privy to a secret.
"You have no idea who she is, do you?"
His smile has a slightly maniacal bend to it
He rocks slightly, back and forth, with as a big of a smile as his limited face muscles will allow. He looks a bit like a school child, filled with glee at the idea of being the sole member of a group privy to a secret.
"You have no idea who she is, do you?"
His smile has a slightly maniacal bend to it
>>131879
Silver seems to show only mild concern at the display of insanity in front of him.
"I suppose not, outside of what she told us. You are not going to say she is serial murdering psychopath, are you?"
Silver seems to show only mild concern at the display of insanity in front of him.
"I suppose not, outside of what she told us. You are not going to say she is serial murdering psychopath, are you?"
>>131880
Some of the feathers around his head and neck seem to stand up
"Well, that I am less sure about. It's kind of a matter of perspective, really. But no."
Some of the feathers around his head and neck seem to stand up
"Well, that I am less sure about. It's kind of a matter of perspective, really. But no."
>>131881
Silver leans against a nearby wall, if it's available. Otherwise he just stands and looks at Maakie.
"Well, you have certainly roused my interest. Please, enlighten me."
Silver leans against a nearby wall, if it's available. Otherwise he just stands and looks at Maakie.
"Well, you have certainly roused my interest. Please, enlighten me."
>>131882
The cement facade of the fishing gear shop is readily available to lean against. He slowly shakes his head
"You have no idea..." He looks past Silver
"She came after me. Tried to hunt me. To track us... to shut us down. But I was more clever. I fought her, and I won. She was from your government. Your old pony government, before the Colonials took over. Did you think that you were first hired guns the government sent after me? No... They've been after me for many years. They made a raid five years ago. Didn't think to search the walled off places, at least at first. But they became wise to me. They knew more than they would let the public know. More than they would let me know. They nearly got me, when they sent her. But... Well, I don't think even she knew I was there on that boat, when she tried to follow me. I learned quite a lot from my time fighting pirates. She didn't really have any lead over me. So we fought, claw to claw. And I won, because I was stronger. She came close to ending me that day. The closest any creature had come since a pirate spared me while I was an ensign. And like how that pirate spared me, I spared her, in a way."
The cement facade of the fishing gear shop is readily available to lean against. He slowly shakes his head
"You have no idea..." He looks past Silver
"She came after me. Tried to hunt me. To track us... to shut us down. But I was more clever. I fought her, and I won. She was from your government. Your old pony government, before the Colonials took over. Did you think that you were first hired guns the government sent after me? No... They've been after me for many years. They made a raid five years ago. Didn't think to search the walled off places, at least at first. But they became wise to me. They knew more than they would let the public know. More than they would let me know. They nearly got me, when they sent her. But... Well, I don't think even she knew I was there on that boat, when she tried to follow me. I learned quite a lot from my time fighting pirates. She didn't really have any lead over me. So we fought, claw to claw. And I won, because I was stronger. She came close to ending me that day. The closest any creature had come since a pirate spared me while I was an ensign. And like how that pirate spared me, I spared her, in a way."
>>131883
Silver's eyes widen a bit at this information.
"That would explain things, yes. So, why is it you had her tied up in your own private room in fortress?"
Silver's eyes widen a bit at this information.
"That would explain things, yes. So, why is it you had her tied up in your own private room in fortress?"
>>131884
"Yes. It was like a punishment at first, for the audacity of trying to hunt me. But I came to know her better. More... personally."
"Yes. It was like a punishment at first, for the audacity of trying to hunt me. But I came to know her better. More... personally."
>>131885
"Yes, that I had assumed as much, what with us finding her in your own private quarters. But I am curious as to what lengths your relationship went to while, if you would oblige."
"Yes, that I had assumed as much, what with us finding her in your own private quarters. But I am curious as to what lengths your relationship went to while, if you would oblige."
>>131886
"Lengths? Do you not realize? I love her. I love her in a way I have not loved any creature since grade school. I bought her the necklace, and would let her out on the streets sometimes. It hurt me so to see... to see her with you... you all."
"Lengths? Do you not realize? I love her. I love her in a way I have not loved any creature since grade school. I bought her the necklace, and would let her out on the streets sometimes. It hurt me so to see... to see her with you... you all."
>>131887
This one actually does hit Silver right in his heart.
"Oh...that is, uh..." He searches for a word to describe it, but comes up short. "...fuck."
This one actually does hit Silver right in his heart.
"Oh...that is, uh..." He searches for a word to describe it, but comes up short. "...fuck."
>>131888
He winces, and resumes staring at Silver
"She had such a charm to her..." He forms a few small tears
"And she betrays me!"
He winces, and resumes staring at Silver
"She had such a charm to her..." He forms a few small tears
"And she betrays me!"
>>131889
"She seems to have not thought same of you..."
He looks down, ears folding on his head.
"I know we put you inside that chute, but...I am sorry."
"She seems to have not thought same of you..."
He looks down, ears folding on his head.
"I know we put you inside that chute, but...I am sorry."
>>131890
A tear moves down and is absorbed into the feathers on his face. He has an unbelieving expression, and stares back at Silver
A tear moves down and is absorbed into the feathers on his face. He has an unbelieving expression, and stares back at Silver
>>131891
"I know what words I could offer are meaningless and empty to you, but they are all I can offer to you. I am sorry."
"I know what words I could offer are meaningless and empty to you, but they are all I can offer to you. I am sorry."
>>131896
"After I captured her, she told me her name was Serene Cenote. I would think later that it was a beautiful name, Serene Cenote." He looks down to the gravel between Horseman Avenue and the loading area behind the stores. "For all I know, she told her real name to you."
"After I captured her, she told me her name was Serene Cenote. I would think later that it was a beautiful name, Serene Cenote." He looks down to the gravel between Horseman Avenue and the loading area behind the stores. "For all I know, she told her real name to you."
>>131897
"It is indeed beautiful name...would you like to talk about her? What was it about her that made you fall in love?"
"It is indeed beautiful name...would you like to talk about her? What was it about her that made you fall in love?"
>>131898
"I... don't know. Can you say what it is in the griffin... uh, mare you love that makes you love them? It defies words. When she placed her claw on my cheek and looked into my eyes with her own, purple gems. The smile on her face... I even... I even came to love how close she came. How I did not even know she found me, that she was on the boat hunting me. She was smart as well as beautiful. Clever."
"I... don't know. Can you say what it is in the griffin... uh, mare you love that makes you love them? It defies words. When she placed her claw on my cheek and looked into my eyes with her own, purple gems. The smile on her face... I even... I even came to love how close she came. How I did not even know she found me, that she was on the boat hunting me. She was smart as well as beautiful. Clever."
>>131899
"...you truly did love her..."
He looks down, seriously considering looking for her and getting some answers.
"...you truly did love her..."
He looks down, seriously considering looking for her and getting some answers.
>>131903
He looks in surprise of the question.
"Get you safely to this safehouse of yours, then let you go."
He looks in surprise of the question.
"Get you safely to this safehouse of yours, then let you go."
>>131905
"Because I believe in second chances, and I am hoping, perhaps naively, that you will not be involved in anything like 33 Hoebuck again. Stick with smuggling goods, it is far more respectable profession than trafficking."
"Because I believe in second chances, and I am hoping, perhaps naively, that you will not be involved in anything like 33 Hoebuck again. Stick with smuggling goods, it is far more respectable profession than trafficking."
>>131906
"So you say. I will trust you for now..."
Mala walks back, carrying a long, black cloak
"I think this will do" he says
"So you say. I will trust you for now..."
Mala walks back, carrying a long, black cloak
"I think this will do" he says
>>131907
Silver looks over to Mala, and smiles.
"Ah, good! Give it to Maakie, he is one who will be needing it."
Silver looks over to Mala, and smiles.
"Ah, good! Give it to Maakie, he is one who will be needing it."
>>131908
Mala goes towards Maakie, but stops a little distance away. He extends out the coat hanging over his extended left foreleg, and Maakie grabs it as if snatching it with his own right claw, while Maakie stares at Mala. Maakie places the coat over himself as Mala walks backwards away from him.
Maakie:
"Shall we go now?"
Mala goes towards Maakie, but stops a little distance away. He extends out the coat hanging over his extended left foreleg, and Maakie grabs it as if snatching it with his own right claw, while Maakie stares at Mala. Maakie places the coat over himself as Mala walks backwards away from him.
Maakie:
"Shall we go now?"
>>131910
This is easy enough, as a taxi stops to pick them up. The driver says nothing about Maakie, covered in his long, black coat. Mala sits away from a Maakie, and is the one to tell the the driver the destination. It’s a location on the far side of the city
This is easy enough, as a taxi stops to pick them up. The driver says nothing about Maakie, covered in his long, black coat. Mala sits away from a Maakie, and is the one to tell the the driver the destination. It’s a location on the far side of the city
>>131911
Silver sits in silece for the ride there, unless one of the passengers was to say something.
Silver sits in silece for the ride there, unless one of the passengers was to say something.
>>131912
Mala does not. Nor does Maakie. Mala does, however, look over to Silver, never actually saying anything. It’s a surprisingly long trip, cutting through downtown, then through town houses on the southwest side, then denser and denser tree formations, then alongside a grand river, until the site is finally reached. The fare is 12 bits, which is the highest Silver has yet had
Mala does not. Nor does Maakie. Mala does, however, look over to Silver, never actually saying anything. It’s a surprisingly long trip, cutting through downtown, then through town houses on the southwest side, then denser and denser tree formations, then alongside a grand river, until the site is finally reached. The fare is 12 bits, which is the highest Silver has yet had
>>131913
He pays the fare, and asks the driver if he can wait for a minute or two since they'll need a ride elsewhere.
He pays the fare, and asks the driver if he can wait for a minute or two since they'll need a ride elsewhere.
>>131914
He obliges
Silver finds himself next to a lot with a grassy ditch, a dirt road and a culvert, and a wooden fence that goes up perhaps four feet or so feet in height and does not let you view through the other side. There is a gate with a visible lock, and over the fence the metal roof of a small house, as well as several bare-limb deciduous trees are visible. Mala steps out next to Silver
He obliges
Silver finds himself next to a lot with a grassy ditch, a dirt road and a culvert, and a wooden fence that goes up perhaps four feet or so feet in height and does not let you view through the other side. There is a gate with a visible lock, and over the fence the metal roof of a small house, as well as several bare-limb deciduous trees are visible. Mala steps out next to Silver
>>131867
Where did we last leave off? I think I had figured out that the monster threat was minimal to occur in the forest.
Where did we last leave off? I think I had figured out that the monster threat was minimal to occur in the forest.
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>>131924
"I could offer guns, food, barricades and walls, of which I'm sure we can get, but those alone won't be enough. What I offer is friendship."
"I could offer guns, food, barricades and walls, of which I'm sure we can get, but those alone won't be enough. What I offer is friendship."
>>131925
“Friendship..”
He pulls his lips back, showing sharp, white canines, and raises his head up slightly, then away down to his right, and around in a clockwise circle until his head finally comes back to Spark
“How?!”
“Friendship..”
He pulls his lips back, showing sharp, white canines, and raises his head up slightly, then away down to his right, and around in a clockwise circle until his head finally comes back to Spark
“How?!”
>>131927
"And how are you going to do that?" He asks
>>131928
As she goes down the road, she finds a set of much older buildings. Stone houses close together in a Georgian style, and a few taverns, restaurants, or even an old school house as well, with newer constructions occasionally popping up on one side of the street. It seems this is a section of the waterfront not dominated by peers, although warehouses and factories can periodically be found to either side.
"And how are you going to do that?" He asks
>>131928
As she goes down the road, she finds a set of much older buildings. Stone houses close together in a Georgian style, and a few taverns, restaurants, or even an old school house as well, with newer constructions occasionally popping up on one side of the street. It seems this is a section of the waterfront not dominated by peers, although warehouses and factories can periodically be found to either side.
>>131930
harpsicord playing in Amber's head
Amber has to control herself from smiling broadly when she enters this new–or rather, old–neighborhood. Though she looks ahead to avoid bumping into traffic on the (presumably) narrow road, she glances about to admire the old architecture and to gauge where she might be at.
harpsicord playing in Amber's head
Amber has to control herself from smiling broadly when she enters this new–or rather, old–neighborhood. Though she looks ahead to avoid bumping into traffic on the (presumably) narrow road, she glances about to admire the old architecture and to gauge where she might be at.
>>131932
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG_AZky2Xkc
For a segment near the water, Amber finds herself walking along a paved concrete street with the left, inland side lined with a cobble stone sidewalk and old, closely spaced houses with stone walls and jettied second floors, while across the wide street are fairly modern warehouses. But after traveling maybe one quarter mile, a diagonal, narrow roadway intersects with the street, and both sides narrow to a stone paved roadway, both sides lines with a taller cottages and houses that must have been fairly upscale when the city was young and the modern seaport non-existent. Amber knows she is still in the same larger neighborhood known as "Cowtown," and is in a narrow swath of older constructs between the rail line and the seaport, or perhaps even adjacent to the bay itself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG_AZky2Xkc
For a segment near the water, Amber finds herself walking along a paved concrete street with the left, inland side lined with a cobble stone sidewalk and old, closely spaced houses with stone walls and jettied second floors, while across the wide street are fairly modern warehouses. But after traveling maybe one quarter mile, a diagonal, narrow roadway intersects with the street, and both sides narrow to a stone paved roadway, both sides lines with a taller cottages and houses that must have been fairly upscale when the city was young and the modern seaport non-existent. Amber knows she is still in the same larger neighborhood known as "Cowtown," and is in a narrow swath of older constructs between the rail line and the seaport, or perhaps even adjacent to the bay itself.
>>131933
I wonder why it's called Cowtown?
Amber looks to see if the composition and demeanor of the inhabitants are any different from those down south. Meanwhile she continues trotting onwards, hooves clopping against the paving stones. For a moment on the way a fear of becoming lost arises, but she quickly pushes that down. I must still be close to the sea, as I didn't see any other routes by the waterfront.
I wonder why it's called Cowtown?
Amber looks to see if the composition and demeanor of the inhabitants are any different from those down south. Meanwhile she continues trotting onwards, hooves clopping against the paving stones. For a moment on the way a fear of becoming lost arises, but she quickly pushes that down. I must still be close to the sea, as I didn't see any other routes by the waterfront.
>>131934
It's slightly more pony, slightly older, the pace of those moving is slower, and zebra (as opposed to griffins) are the dominate non-pony ethnicity. Amber is by the sea. That much is clear, even if her view of the sea is usually blocked by buildings. The elevation of the street seems lower than the general street level.
Then she sees it. It's on a lot all of its own on the right, with a wrought iron fence surrounding the property, and a view of the ocean beyond. The property can't be any more than two acres in total, if it is even that. Amber sees a large mansion with light grey walls, a closed balcony on the second level, green shutters around large, rectangular latticed windows, and big dormer windows piercing the dark grey tile cover pitched roof. The rectangular shape, typical of the colonial style, is broken up by two smaller attached rectangles, one on each side, that are two stories tall and sort of round off the shape of the structure. There is a smaller building to the left, and another behind it by the waterline. In the fore is mowed grass, flower beds, and stone covered walkways leading up the entrance.
Then she sees it.
It's slightly more pony, slightly older, the pace of those moving is slower, and zebra (as opposed to griffins) are the dominate non-pony ethnicity. Amber is by the sea. That much is clear, even if her view of the sea is usually blocked by buildings. The elevation of the street seems lower than the general street level.
Then she sees it. It's on a lot all of its own on the right, with a wrought iron fence surrounding the property, and a view of the ocean beyond. The property can't be any more than two acres in total, if it is even that. Amber sees a large mansion with light grey walls, a closed balcony on the second level, green shutters around large, rectangular latticed windows, and big dormer windows piercing the dark grey tile cover pitched roof. The rectangular shape, typical of the colonial style, is broken up by two smaller attached rectangles, one on each side, that are two stories tall and sort of round off the shape of the structure. There is a smaller building to the left, and another behind it by the waterline. In the fore is mowed grass, flower beds, and stone covered walkways leading up the entrance.
Then she sees it.
>>131916
Mala looks back to Silver, with his head lower than his shoulder level. Maakie has his head up, and straightens the coat
Maakie:
"Indeed it is"
Mala looks back to Silver, with his head lower than his shoulder level. Maakie has his head up, and straightens the coat
Maakie:
"Indeed it is"
Amber whistles at the edifice that just a few minutes prior would have seemed like a breezy tale. It must look quite inviting in the sunlight. If the gate is open she will walk up to the entrance.
>>131938
This is possible, as the main gate is open. To either side is open grass for some feet, but closer to the house it is lined with well trimmed shrubberies and a few smaller trees. There is another cottage looking building on the same lot to the far left. The shutters on the windows are open.
>>131939
Maakie:
"Yes indeed..."
Mala looks up at Silver. The gate is locked
This is possible, as the main gate is open. To either side is open grass for some feet, but closer to the house it is lined with well trimmed shrubberies and a few smaller trees. There is another cottage looking building on the same lot to the far left. The shutters on the windows are open.
>>131939
Maakie:
"Yes indeed..."
Mala looks up at Silver. The gate is locked
>>131940
"Hmm? Oh, right."
Silver takes the keys they got off of Maakie, and looks for the one to unlock the gate.
"Hmm? Oh, right."
Silver takes the keys they got off of Maakie, and looks for the one to unlock the gate.
>>131940
Setting hoof on the property is like entering a different, more hospitable world for Amber. In many ways the house reminds her of her life back home, though it far outclasses any local residence. When Amber reached the entrance she hesitates but gives the door a firm knock with her hoof.
Setting hoof on the property is like entering a different, more hospitable world for Amber. In many ways the house reminds her of her life back home, though it far outclasses any local residence. When Amber reached the entrance she hesitates but gives the door a firm knock with her hoof.
>>131942
With a small sign on the door, Amber can see that she can enter through the door.
>>131941
Nothing, nothing, nothing... and "click." Silver opens the gate to find a lot with some high grass, a patch of dirt with flowers planted over it directly on the ground, some now bare trees further in the back, and a slightly raised small one story house with brown wooden exterior, just right of center
With a small sign on the door, Amber can see that she can enter through the door.
>>131941
Nothing, nothing, nothing... and "click." Silver opens the gate to find a lot with some high grass, a patch of dirt with flowers planted over it directly on the ground, some now bare trees further in the back, and a slightly raised small one story house with brown wooden exterior, just right of center
>>131943
Amber does so, presumably into a foyer. She looks around to see what and who are inside.
I have to leave shortly. Sorry for joining late again and I promise I'll correct this flaw.
Amber does so, presumably into a foyer. She looks around to see what and who are inside.
I have to leave shortly. Sorry for joining late again and I promise I'll correct this flaw.
>>131944
She does indeed enter a foyer, with a straight staircase going up to the second level, a chandelier above, white railing, and open doors to the left, the right, and at the far end of the foyer. Somehow... it looks less "grand" than a house of this size would imply.
There is a peacock green mare of middle age or so in a room to the left who is visible. She wears a black dress.
She does indeed enter a foyer, with a straight staircase going up to the second level, a chandelier above, white railing, and open doors to the left, the right, and at the far end of the foyer. Somehow... it looks less "grand" than a house of this size would imply.
There is a peacock green mare of middle age or so in a room to the left who is visible. She wears a black dress.
>>131946
It's rather rural, and it's hard to see what exactly defines the far end of the lot, as there are trees on the far side, and something like a creek to the left. There is also a small shed beyond the field of planted flowers
Maakie:
"Yes. Yes it is."
It's rather rural, and it's hard to see what exactly defines the far end of the lot, as there are trees on the far side, and something like a creek to the left. There is also a small shed beyond the field of planted flowers
Maakie:
"Yes. Yes it is."
>>131947
Silver stands there, looking at Maakie awkwardly and unsure of how to proceed from here.
"So..."
Silver stands there, looking at Maakie awkwardly and unsure of how to proceed from here.
"So..."
>>131948
Maakie himself walks forward towards the single floor house, while Mala stays back, close to Silver
Maakie himself walks forward towards the single floor house, while Mala stays back, close to Silver
>>131954
He takes it, and unlocks the door. Mala forces his way in first, knocking Maakie back. Maakie makes known his frustration at that act, but he can't really do anything. Inside is a full if small house it seems, with a single couch and radio in a living room that attaches to a small kitchen, and a tiny hallway leading to a bedroom and a bathroom.
He takes it, and unlocks the door. Mala forces his way in first, knocking Maakie back. Maakie makes known his frustration at that act, but he can't really do anything. Inside is a full if small house it seems, with a single couch and radio in a living room that attaches to a small kitchen, and a tiny hallway leading to a bedroom and a bathroom.
>>131956
"Such is the advantage of connection to a land holder." Maakie makes his way into the room, towards the couch. Mala is no where to be seen
"Such is the advantage of connection to a land holder." Maakie makes his way into the room, towards the couch. Mala is no where to be seen
>>131958
"Looks like he retains information after all..." Maakie's green eyes slide towards his right, in the direction of the hallway. And from there, Silver can here wood moving, confirming Mala's presence in the area of the bedroom.
"Looks like he retains information after all..." Maakie's green eyes slide towards his right, in the direction of the hallway. And from there, Silver can here wood moving, confirming Mala's presence in the area of the bedroom.
>>131960
Mala pops out of the bedroom, into the hall, and looks into the living room, only showing his head and staying close to the wall
Mala pops out of the bedroom, into the hall, and looks into the living room, only showing his head and staying close to the wall
>>131962
Mala backs up, into the hallway, perhaps into the room. Mala then moves forwards, and tries to speak into Silver's ear
"There are guns under the floorboards"
Mala backs up, into the hallway, perhaps into the room. Mala then moves forwards, and tries to speak into Silver's ear
"There are guns under the floorboards"
>>131963
Silver looks a little...surprised, at the sudden information. He whispers back.
"You really do know lot about this place."
Silver looks a little...surprised, at the sudden information. He whispers back.
"You really do know lot about this place."
>>131965
Silver gives Mala a reassuring pat.
"I figured as much. Do not worry about it."
He speaks to him in a normal tone.
"So, what is it you were here for previously?"
Silver gives Mala a reassuring pat.
"I figured as much. Do not worry about it."
He speaks to him in a normal tone.
"So, what is it you were here for previously?"
I'm available to play today if you are
>>131945
Amber's eyes follow up the balustrade and glance at the glittering chandelier before coming back down. She spots the unusually-colored mare and decides to trot to that room.
>>131945
Amber's eyes follow up the balustrade and glance at the glittering chandelier before coming back down. She spots the unusually-colored mare and decides to trot to that room.
>>131970
The ceiling is white, and meets a tiered yellow molding where it meets the walls. Several portraits hang from the walls, one of which at least is familiar. Entering into the new room - it looks like a state room, with dark wood shelves with books and fine china, and a blue ceiling that similarly meets the walls with a tiered, white molding.
The mare spots her before she closes the distance.
"Oh. Hello. Visiting?"
The ceiling is white, and meets a tiered yellow molding where it meets the walls. Several portraits hang from the walls, one of which at least is familiar. Entering into the new room - it looks like a state room, with dark wood shelves with books and fine china, and a blue ceiling that similarly meets the walls with a tiered, white molding.
The mare spots her before she closes the distance.
"Oh. Hello. Visiting?"
>>131971
Amber nods. "Your house is very pretty. I heard about it and decided to have a look for myself. Do you often have visitors?"
Amber nods. "Your house is very pretty. I heard about it and decided to have a look for myself. Do you often have visitors?"
>>131972
She smiles, and walks closer forward
"Oh, this isn't my house. This is the Tall Sails family mansion, built in 761. It's been open to the public for a decade now" She answers
She smiles, and walks closer forward
"Oh, this isn't my house. This is the Tall Sails family mansion, built in 761. It's been open to the public for a decade now" She answers
Amber's eyes widen in interest. "Wow, I was just at their headquarters earlier today. Are you the curator?"
>>131978
"I have some friends there. They helped me out a lot in the past. There is also somepony from New Mareland that we can talk to in order to make the trade deal."
"I have some friends there. They helped me out a lot in the past. There is also somepony from New Mareland that we can talk to in order to make the trade deal."
>>131980
"They are from across the ocean. Not the most gentle bunch, but they are more friendly than the changelings."
"They are from across the ocean. Not the most gentle bunch, but they are more friendly than the changelings."
>>131981
"Oh. Yes. Well, this place was built for Joseph Curwhinny in 761 and expanded for his family, built in the Georgian style. It was used afterwards by Tall Sails and his family, and then passed on from generations down. Around the turn of last century the family moved away from it starting with Wispy Wind, but it stayed in the family. It was damaged pretty hard in the Hurricane of '64, but survived as it was built ontop of a higher rocky outcropping than most of the buildings at the time. After renovations it was opened to the public back in 02."
"Oh. Yes. Well, this place was built for Joseph Curwhinny in 761 and expanded for his family, built in the Georgian style. It was used afterwards by Tall Sails and his family, and then passed on from generations down. Around the turn of last century the family moved away from it starting with Wispy Wind, but it stayed in the family. It was damaged pretty hard in the Hurricane of '64, but survived as it was built ontop of a higher rocky outcropping than most of the buildings at the time. After renovations it was opened to the public back in 02."
>>131984
"Because they have boats and they can get supplies loaded up to you. Plus East Equestria is under their control."
"Because they have boats and they can get supplies loaded up to you. Plus East Equestria is under their control."
>>131985
"And where is this 'East Equestria'? Because we have had Changelings almost walk into our village."
"And where is this 'East Equestria'? Because we have had Changelings almost walk into our village."
>>131987
"Well...." She looks away to the right, and a bit down to the ground.
"There was a built-in cupboard in the upstairs colt's room that was made a false back to hide in, at least for the colt. As for other secret passages... well, when they were renovating after the Hurricane, and moving much of the house higher so it would be above the waterline, and in-line with the new city regulations, well... they found some open spaces and a couple ladders... spaces between walls that were a little bigger than normal, maybe hidden rooms. As for ghost stories, I am not sure if there are many mansions as old as these that don't have those. There's an especially well known incident back in 894 where the Earl of Sunny Shores stayed for the night in the seaside guest room and ran screaming outside in the early morning. But it is, after all, just stories and rumors."
>>131988
He looks at Spark a little while longer
"And what would they want?"
"Well...." She looks away to the right, and a bit down to the ground.
"There was a built-in cupboard in the upstairs colt's room that was made a false back to hide in, at least for the colt. As for other secret passages... well, when they were renovating after the Hurricane, and moving much of the house higher so it would be above the waterline, and in-line with the new city regulations, well... they found some open spaces and a couple ladders... spaces between walls that were a little bigger than normal, maybe hidden rooms. As for ghost stories, I am not sure if there are many mansions as old as these that don't have those. There's an especially well known incident back in 894 where the Earl of Sunny Shores stayed for the night in the seaside guest room and ran screaming outside in the early morning. But it is, after all, just stories and rumors."
>>131988
He looks at Spark a little while longer
"And what would they want?"
>>131989
"I wouldn't expect anything else! It's a gorgeous and storied mansion, and I can't imagine how it must have been to live here."
"I wouldn't expect anything else! It's a gorgeous and storied mansion, and I can't imagine how it must have been to live here."
>>131990
"Well, I haven't lived here. It's very grand and ornate, and extremely charming... though I think it would be a bit... 'empty' at night. I would keep a few candles on. But yes, there is a great bit of history here. This stateroom here, for instance, was the site of a chess game between Admiral White Cap and then-Minister of Finance Sapphire Saddle."
"Well, I haven't lived here. It's very grand and ornate, and extremely charming... though I think it would be a bit... 'empty' at night. I would keep a few candles on. But yes, there is a great bit of history here. This stateroom here, for instance, was the site of a chess game between Admiral White Cap and then-Minister of Finance Sapphire Saddle."
>>131991
Amber blinks. "I can only imagine what kind of chess game that would be…"
Sorry for replying slowly, I'm engrossed in the Derpibooru fiasco
Amber blinks. "I can only imagine what kind of chess game that would be…"
Sorry for replying slowly, I'm engrossed in the Derpibooru fiasco
>>131992
"Oh yes! It was rather intense, and is said to have escalated to a gun being drawn but... I rather forget the whole story..."
What are they up to now? Last I heard they were also banning communism
"Oh yes! It was rather intense, and is said to have escalated to a gun being drawn but... I rather forget the whole story..."
What are they up to now? Last I heard they were also banning communism
>>131993
"I–I believe it. So many generations living under one roof, I guess you could truly call them aristocracy."
Yes. Honestly I'm glad things are falling apart, they've laid so much emphasis on banning "hateful content" that even the rule reversal would have been rule 0's handed out left and right.
"I–I believe it. So many generations living under one roof, I guess you could truly call them aristocracy."
Yes. Honestly I'm glad things are falling apart, they've laid so much emphasis on banning "hateful content" that even the rule reversal would have been rule 0's handed out left and right.
>>131994
"Oh, not in the old sense. Not traditionally... In Canterlot they insist on the difference. It's something a bit newer, based on trade and industry, and not knighthood or land ownership. 'New Money,' comparatively speaking. But it is Aristocracy in a real sense, and the best claim to aristocracy I think we have around here."
Go to discord. I want to speak to you
"Oh, not in the old sense. Not traditionally... In Canterlot they insist on the difference. It's something a bit newer, based on trade and industry, and not knighthood or land ownership. 'New Money,' comparatively speaking. But it is Aristocracy in a real sense, and the best claim to aristocracy I think we have around here."
Go to discord. I want to speak to you
>>131995
Amber scratches at her mane. "Well when everypony is so close together you have to have some means to know who's important. If adventuring and soldiering on land could get a pony nobility back in the day, I suppose sailing across the seven seas counts for somethin'."
Amber scratches at her mane. "Well when everypony is so close together you have to have some means to know who's important. If adventuring and soldiering on land could get a pony nobility back in the day, I suppose sailing across the seven seas counts for somethin'."
>>131996
"Oh, it did. Look all around you and you can see the evidence"
The room has a table, and several leather chairs, besides a styled rug, wooden floor, and shelves with various curio's and books
"Oh, it did. Look all around you and you can see the evidence"
The room has a table, and several leather chairs, besides a styled rug, wooden floor, and shelves with various curio's and books
>>131966
He is pat, closing his eyes at the contact
"We were here for..." Mala closes his mouth, winces, then opens his mouth again to speak. But he does not complete his sentence
He is pat, closing his eyes at the contact
"We were here for..." Mala closes his mouth, winces, then opens his mouth again to speak. But he does not complete his sentence
>>131998
He gives Mala a worried look.
"You do not have to say if it makes you uncomfortable. It will not change my opinion of you either way."
He gives Mala a worried look.
"You do not have to say if it makes you uncomfortable. It will not change my opinion of you either way."
>>131999
Mala looks at Silver is answers him:
"Rêwîtiyek is buried there, out in the back. Under the flowers. Among others..."
Best pony noises
Mala looks at Silver is answers him:
"Rêwîtiyek is buried there, out in the back. Under the flowers. Among others..."
Best pony noises
>>132001
Mala is hugged, Silver's leg making contact with his short and course if kind of fluffy fur. He looks up at Silver with his big, black eyes
"I told you. He was the other Kaftar. He was killed when the soldiers came in, the day before the ceasefire."
Mala is hugged, Silver's leg making contact with his short and course if kind of fluffy fur. He looks up at Silver with his big, black eyes
"I told you. He was the other Kaftar. He was killed when the soldiers came in, the day before the ceasefire."
>>132002
Silver looks back, feeling hurt for the Kaftar gnoll who lost his friend, and who likely had to bury him himself.
"Oh...I am sorry, friend."
He gives Mala a squeeze.
Silver looks back, feeling hurt for the Kaftar gnoll who lost his friend, and who likely had to bury him himself.
"Oh...I am sorry, friend."
He gives Mala a squeeze.
>>132003
Gnoll is squeezed
He feels a little fat. The air let out sounds a little like a yip. Mala doesn't say anything to the condolences for the loss of Rêwîtiyek, but instead asks:
"What are you doing with him?"
Gnoll is squeezed
He feels a little fat. The air let out sounds a little like a yip. Mala doesn't say anything to the condolences for the loss of Rêwîtiyek, but instead asks:
"What are you doing with him?"
>>132004
Silver lets out a sigh.
"It might be naïve, but...I am letting him go. I do not believe he will get involved with trafficking and Maarists again after all of this."
Silver lets out a sigh.
"It might be naïve, but...I am letting him go. I do not believe he will get involved with trafficking and Maarists again after all of this."
>>132005
Mala's eyes grow big and he moves back slightly
"But... I don't know... I don't think he would take his change in fortunes lightly"
Mala's eyes grow big and he moves back slightly
"But... I don't know... I don't think he would take his change in fortunes lightly"
>>132007
"He's.... He's very concerned with who respects him... I don't know... I am afraid of him..."
"He's.... He's very concerned with who respects him... I don't know... I am afraid of him..."
>>132008
He pets Mala to try to reassure him.
"Well, he had better not make me regret showing him trust and respect."
He pets Mala to try to reassure him.
"Well, he had better not make me regret showing him trust and respect."
>>132010
"Yes. I will admit, his offer of payment makes this slightly easier decision, if he comes through."
"Yes. I will admit, his offer of payment makes this slightly easier decision, if he comes through."
>>132012
"We will ask him about it. We did as he asked, he is in no position to deny us at this point. If he tries to stiff us, we can use what you know about what is hidden here as leverage."
"We will ask him about it. We did as he asked, he is in no position to deny us at this point. If he tries to stiff us, we can use what you know about what is hidden here as leverage."
>>132014
"He is in no state to fight or flee right now. Let us focus on this being respectful transaction for now. If things go wrong, we will handle it."
"He is in no state to fight or flee right now. Let us focus on this being respectful transaction for now. If things go wrong, we will handle it."
>>132019
Maakie is sitting on the couch, staring in the direction of the two as they enter. He stands up as they come closer
Maakie is sitting on the couch, staring in the direction of the two as they enter. He stands up as they come closer
>>132020
Silver nods to Maakie.
"Hello again. I do not mean to be rude, but we would like to settle issue of payment between us."
Silver pauses for a second as he remembers something, before pulling out both of Maakie's swords from his bags and offering them back to their original owner.
"Oh, and before I forget, I believe these belong to you."
Silver nods to Maakie.
"Hello again. I do not mean to be rude, but we would like to settle issue of payment between us."
Silver pauses for a second as he remembers something, before pulling out both of Maakie's swords from his bags and offering them back to their original owner.
"Oh, and before I forget, I believe these belong to you."
File (): AF53D9AE1FB98233C946951640B4C24E-145016.jpg (141.6 KB, 1019x662, michaeldlong.com-8769 (2).jpg)
>>132021
Maakie takes both, and holds the larger sabre out, the one that Silver took from above his bed, and looks at it for a time. He looks back up to Silver
"What do you want?"
Maakie takes both, and holds the larger sabre out, the one that Silver took from above his bed, and looks at it for a time. He looks back up to Silver
"What do you want?"
>>132022
"You promised payment for bringing you to safety instead of turning you in for bounty. It would be greatly appreciated if you would provide it."
"You promised payment for bringing you to safety instead of turning you in for bounty. It would be greatly appreciated if you would provide it."
>>132023
"I have nothing on me. You've robbed me of everything I own. I know merchants in Nova Griffonia. I can get money from then, if only you give me time."
"I have nothing on me. You've robbed me of everything I own. I know merchants in Nova Griffonia. I can get money from then, if only you give me time."
>>132024
Silver raises an eyebrow.
"That is not exactly what you said before. And it is lot of trust to ask for..."
He looks at Maakie for a couple seconds, before slowly nodding.
"...alright. I will give you that trust, if you can agree to one condition."
Silver raises an eyebrow.
"That is not exactly what you said before. And it is lot of trust to ask for..."
He looks at Maakie for a couple seconds, before slowly nodding.
"...alright. I will give you that trust, if you can agree to one condition."
>>132026
"It is lot of trust to ask for in my field of work, promising to pay at later date while going to other country. You do seem to be griffon of honor, but even still, having something, even little something, in advance would do wonders to alleviate any fears on our part of you going to Nova Griffonia and simply not sending anything back. This is safehouse, after all. It would be incredibly foolish to not have something stashed away here."
"It is lot of trust to ask for in my field of work, promising to pay at later date while going to other country. You do seem to be griffon of honor, but even still, having something, even little something, in advance would do wonders to alleviate any fears on our part of you going to Nova Griffonia and simply not sending anything back. This is safehouse, after all. It would be incredibly foolish to not have something stashed away here."
pic please
also sorry for being away
>>131997
Such opulence is overwhelming. I've read so many books with this kind of opulence, but it's hard to prepare to see it in person… Amber looks around the room and asks, "The wood looks so exotic. May I see what's on the shelves?"
also sorry for being away
>>131997
Such opulence is overwhelming. I've read so many books with this kind of opulence, but it's hard to prepare to see it in person… Amber looks around the room and asks, "The wood looks so exotic. May I see what's on the shelves?"
>>132027
"Oh there's 'something' stashed away here alright, but it's not money. Your little friend there made sure to get to it first. This place was not intended to be a safe house, in any traditional sense. It is a property belonging to Boek that we used for other purposes. It serves as a safehouse now because there is no where else to go. You burst into my office and my apartment, and took away my love. You tore through my business of six years. Judging by your reluctance to talk about the Freisan address, I assume something must have happened to make that location unavailable. So what exactly do you expect?"
>>132028
What pic?
"Oh, sure. This is not the library though"
Just from a cursory glance, Amber can see a blue colored chine plate propped up with a pattern that seems to be tea leaves, a gold or brass lined leather covered book of the "Canterlot Tales," and a marble bust of some stallion Amber can't immediately identify
"Oh there's 'something' stashed away here alright, but it's not money. Your little friend there made sure to get to it first. This place was not intended to be a safe house, in any traditional sense. It is a property belonging to Boek that we used for other purposes. It serves as a safehouse now because there is no where else to go. You burst into my office and my apartment, and took away my love. You tore through my business of six years. Judging by your reluctance to talk about the Freisan address, I assume something must have happened to make that location unavailable. So what exactly do you expect?"
>>132028
What pic?
"Oh, sure. This is not the library though"
Just from a cursory glance, Amber can see a blue colored chine plate propped up with a pattern that seems to be tea leaves, a gold or brass lined leather covered book of the "Canterlot Tales," and a marble bust of some stallion Amber can't immediately identify
>>132029
Any random pic of "Victorian living room" and the like for illustration. I like it when there are examples.
Any random pic of "Victorian living room" and the like for illustration. I like it when there are examples.
>>132031
Uh... I guess when i stop and think about the room, I am probably projecting a room in a house owned by a professor I had in law school that he would sometimes host classes in. That room was probably technically a "library." I may also have been thinking of the Hearst Manor which I visited as a child. The room wouldn't be Victorian, but an older style. Georgian era. Think of a room the purpose of which is to receive guests from the foyer, but isn't the primary library or living room. Maybe something like a smoke room, or a writing room...
>>132030
"Oh yes. A grand library, with thousands of books."
>>132032
"He found the shotguns, didn't he?"
Uh... I guess when i stop and think about the room, I am probably projecting a room in a house owned by a professor I had in law school that he would sometimes host classes in. That room was probably technically a "library." I may also have been thinking of the Hearst Manor which I visited as a child. The room wouldn't be Victorian, but an older style. Georgian era. Think of a room the purpose of which is to receive guests from the foyer, but isn't the primary library or living room. Maybe something like a smoke room, or a writing room...
>>132030
"Oh yes. A grand library, with thousands of books."
>>132032
"He found the shotguns, didn't he?"
File (): 22A06E8283D5E8C4F43C321688AC32EF-392338.jpg (383.1 KB, 1500x1000, image-asset.jpeg)
>>132037
Silver nods.
"I figured we would get permission from you, first. We are not here to rob you, after all."
Silver nods.
"I figured we would get permission from you, first. We are not here to rob you, after all."
File (): 3519AEAC6A7CB27370FB096DFB86A4E4-117397.jpg (114.6 KB, 300x377, 66f3eae8-f789-488b-af78-95769c84b106.jfif)
>>132038
"You may as well take it. What else do you want?"
>>132039
The guide takes her through a hardwood door frame nearer the end of the room that enters into a hallway with a clock on the side, a statue that seems to be a smaller model of the statue to victory in the Canterlot gardens. They pass along a very long rug covered in purple and orange dyes with designs of unicorns and other creatures, towards an open door at the end of the hall. Through open doorways, Amber can see what must be grand living rooms, a hall leading to some other stairway, and the edges of a dining table. At last, at the end of the hallway, they enter through a doorway that opens to what must be a room taking up much, perhaps all, of the smaller rectangle that attaches to the side of the main rectangular structure of the building. There are grand book shelves, small moving ladders, and a table or two beneath the high ceiling of the room
"You may as well take it. What else do you want?"
>>132039
The guide takes her through a hardwood door frame nearer the end of the room that enters into a hallway with a clock on the side, a statue that seems to be a smaller model of the statue to victory in the Canterlot gardens. They pass along a very long rug covered in purple and orange dyes with designs of unicorns and other creatures, towards an open door at the end of the hall. Through open doorways, Amber can see what must be grand living rooms, a hall leading to some other stairway, and the edges of a dining table. At last, at the end of the hallway, they enter through a doorway that opens to what must be a room taking up much, perhaps all, of the smaller rectangle that attaches to the side of the main rectangular structure of the building. There are grand book shelves, small moving ladders, and a table or two beneath the high ceiling of the room
>>132041
Session tomorrow, perhaps?
Amber is glad she wiped her hooves before she entered the house, and as she follows she glances at all these varied rooms.
When they reach the doorway to the library, however, she stands in place with her mouth hanging loosely. After a few seconds she looks back to her guide as if for confirmation this is real.
Session tomorrow, perhaps?
Amber is glad she wiped her hooves before she entered the house, and as she follows she glances at all these varied rooms.
When they reach the doorway to the library, however, she stands in place with her mouth hanging loosely. After a few seconds she looks back to her guide as if for confirmation this is real.
File (): 4A11EE53B37F62EC93CF230E2D5B5F2D-143222.jpg (139.9 KB, 851x634, 120-Lloyd-Road-Montclair-1.jpg)
>>132042
It seems to be, at least. The ceiling seems to the roof level, or near enough to it. Though there are no skylights, there are large paneled windows extending up perhaps 18 feet, and grand bookshelves, with even a second level on each end. Amber can't read the book binds at this distance, but she can see brown leather binds, green cloth binds, tan colors, white, yellow, and red. Some binds are used and bent, some brand new. Some books are small, and some are massive. It's not as big as the public library in the town center, but it is as big as a wing of the same, and there is more decoration on the ceiling and wood paneling.
More windows in the walls than in pic related
It seems to be, at least. The ceiling seems to the roof level, or near enough to it. Though there are no skylights, there are large paneled windows extending up perhaps 18 feet, and grand bookshelves, with even a second level on each end. Amber can't read the book binds at this distance, but she can see brown leather binds, green cloth binds, tan colors, white, yellow, and red. Some binds are used and bent, some brand new. Some books are small, and some are massive. It's not as big as the public library in the town center, but it is as big as a wing of the same, and there is more decoration on the ceiling and wood paneling.
More windows in the walls than in pic related
>>132041
"Well, there is one thing if you would be willing to obilge me before we part. I would like to hear your story. Why you got into Navy, how you became smuggler...what events made you into you?"
"Well, there is one thing if you would be willing to obilge me before we part. I would like to hear your story. Why you got into Navy, how you became smuggler...what events made you into you?"
>>132103
[1d3 = 3]
Makade replies
"How could they provide us, exactly? We need ammunition, mortars, medicine, or best of all peace with the Doubles."
[1d3 = 3]
Makade replies
"How could they provide us, exactly? We need ammunition, mortars, medicine, or best of all peace with the Doubles."
>>132104
"They can provide all but the last one. That last one is up to me and my friends. Wars don't end overnight. It will take some time. I think you will find the supplies worth it in the meanwhile."
"They can provide all but the last one. That last one is up to me and my friends. Wars don't end overnight. It will take some time. I think you will find the supplies worth it in the meanwhile."
>>132105
He pauses for a moment. An ear twitches, and he lowers his head
"It's worth considering... But I am still not sure I trust you, or ponies generally for that matter. I need to get back to patrol."
[1d3 = 3]
He pauses for a moment. An ear twitches, and he lowers his head
"It's worth considering... But I am still not sure I trust you, or ponies generally for that matter. I need to get back to patrol."
[1d3 = 3]
>>132106
"I think you will find ponies more trustworthy than changelings, and a better source of supplies for that matter."
Spark follows.
"I think you will find ponies more trustworthy than changelings, and a better source of supplies for that matter."
Spark follows.
>>132107
Waabashki says,
"I think I need to go back to Miskobag for lessons. I do not think he will be able to teach me much longer."
Waabashki says,
"I think I need to go back to Miskobag for lessons. I do not think he will be able to teach me much longer."
>>132108
Spark turns around.
"Oh. I'm sorry to hear that. Will he want to be alone, or may I come listen in?"
Spark turns around.
"Oh. I'm sorry to hear that. Will he want to be alone, or may I come listen in?"
>>132111
"Perhaps if you earn his trust - our trust - he may teach you something. The rights of the mediwin are secret even to the Ma'iingan... but he may be willing to teach you something yet"
"Perhaps if you earn his trust - our trust - he may teach you something. The rights of the mediwin are secret even to the Ma'iingan... but he may be willing to teach you something yet"
>>132113
"For the mediwin? That has never happened. But few wolves become mediwin. Trust for Harmony.... There have been many ponies through this land, and for a long time. Travellers, adventurers, merchants, outdoors ponies... According to legend there was even a great pony sorcerer who used magic to control the lands, and invaded ours with his troops. It was brutal, until he retreated and was sucked into his own creation. All of this before my time. But I do remember an occasion when I was younger. Not that many years ago..."
"For the mediwin? That has never happened. But few wolves become mediwin. Trust for Harmony.... There have been many ponies through this land, and for a long time. Travellers, adventurers, merchants, outdoors ponies... According to legend there was even a great pony sorcerer who used magic to control the lands, and invaded ours with his troops. It was brutal, until he retreated and was sucked into his own creation. All of this before my time. But I do remember an occasion when I was younger. Not that many years ago..."
poni is still here
File (): 239335D3E4A50535A286A4CECBCC5E27-97086.png (94.8 KB, 554x452, CheerfulTrottingAmber.png)
Good news! I managed to get Hearts of Iron 4 and by extension EaW working by changing the permissions of my folders. It runs better than expected though of course not superbly.
The weather system is borked though. In the afternoon on the 1st of January it's 23ºC in Baltimare. For reference it's basically the weather of Cuba. I know this is not intentional because going one province from Hayseed Swamps to Lesie is a drop of 15 degrees, and it's similar along the "border" of southeast Equestria. I know you're not a climate expert but I hope you have a better headcanon.
Autism incoming:
Equestria is absolutely colossal, not really the equivalent of the U.S.A. but rather all of North America combined. Even if the diarchy is somewhat minarchist other than with army and navy, how is this all coordinated with so many different cultures? At least Russia has most of its population concentrated in the West. I'm guessing that Equestria would have a great deal of autonomy for geographical sections and smaller provinces, but I'm sad this doesn't seem to be explored, and politics is more like classic enlightened despotism.
The weather system is borked though. In the afternoon on the 1st of January it's 23ºC in Baltimare. For reference it's basically the weather of Cuba. I know this is not intentional because going one province from Hayseed Swamps to Lesie is a drop of 15 degrees, and it's similar along the "border" of southeast Equestria. I know you're not a climate expert but I hope you have a better headcanon.
Autism incoming:
Equestria is absolutely colossal, not really the equivalent of the U.S.A. but rather all of North America combined. Even if the diarchy is somewhat minarchist other than with army and navy, how is this all coordinated with so many different cultures? At least Russia has most of its population concentrated in the West. I'm guessing that Equestria would have a great deal of autonomy for geographical sections and smaller provinces, but I'm sad this doesn't seem to be explored, and politics is more like classic enlightened despotism.
>>132140
Okay, so this is something I've put a decent bit of autism into.
I did a test of the size of Equestria using the speed of naval vessels (since they maintain a consistent speed) from Village Up North to the Spa Islands, and from the Spa Islands to Trotsas. I got dimensions of equestria that I cannot precisely remember, but I think it was something around nearly exactly 1000 miles wide and ~1700 miles North to South, for a land area of about 1.7 million miles for all of Equestria, Stalliongrad, and the Crystal Empire put together. I did another test using the range of aircraft (assuming that "range" listed is twice the radius of the circle appearing on the map because the planes have to make a return trip on the same fuel), and it came out to about the same numbers. Of course any test using land units gives a much higher estimate for the size of Equestria. Either it's because the land units have a much less consistent speed, or the size of the land area actually is vastly greater than the size of the naval and/or air map. I will admit that tests using land units give pretty much the estimate you give. If the 1.7 million square mile area is acccurate, then there's a population of 80 million ponies living in an area just over half the size of the continental US. The population of the US in 1940 was 120 million, so that would mean a higher population density than the US at that time. Of course if the actual size of Equestria is greater than all of North America, that's a much lower population density.
As for climate, I'm a bit less apologetic about that one. Looking at a map of Equestria, there's a large section that is clearly modeled on the US eastern seaboard, and a section south of that that includes jungles modeled on those of Mexico, and desert-like "badlands." Baltimare is located immediately next to the Hayseed swamps (which seems to be based more or less on the Louisiana swamps), and not very far at all north of dense rain-forest. To be sure, it's slightly further north, and of course ocean circulation will alter the climate significantly in one direction or the other, but I see no reason at all to assume that Baltimare isn't a subtropical coastal city like Houston or Jacksonville. Maybe not Cuba climate levels, but it seems like a location that experiences no more than a week of temperatures below freezing a year, and probably even less than that.
As for cultures, autonomy, and politics, well, I know at least what I am operating with in Occupied Equestria. In this presentation of Equestria, Equestria was formerly a confederation of culturally distinct tribes that through a long and labored process of cultural assimilation because a single, unified, nation-state with one culture, a shared language and values. (Of course, Severyana, the Tenochtitlan Basin, the Crystal Empire, and Sonambula’s homeland never underwent this process completely). Equestria has gone from many distinct tribes that were historical enemies and only reigned in by the alicorns, into a single nation with a common identity that has inertia after the loss of the Alicorn sisters. Look to France, and perhaps Spain, for a historical example of a similar set of disparate cultures that were forged into a single cultural unit over time, mostly by means of a few strong willed political leaders.
I am not sure if this is what is actually going on in the cannon. Certainly when we see the Equestria of a thousand years ago in Hearths Warming Eve, and in the episodes featuring the Pillars of Equestria, it looks more diverse and multi-cultural than the Equestria of the episodes we see based in the present. To be sure, the Equestria of the present is somewhat diverse, in the same way the United States (minus immigrant populations) is diverse – we see Ponyville, Canterlot, Manehattan, and places like the Smoky Mountains in the Hooffields and McColts – but it’s not nearly as diverse as the Japanese, Scottish, Egyptian, Greek, and Louisianan milieu we see with the Pillars, or even the French, German, and Greek inspired cultural differences we see in Hearths Warming Eve. So maybe Equestria has become more culturally homogeneous over the years in cannon. Or maybe we’re just seeing wider and further away parts of Equestria for the first time in those episodes. I don’t know.
Regardless, I’m going with a historical progression from confederation of diverse tribes to a nation-state until the graces of an absolute(?) monarch for a simple thematic reason: the history of Equestria is a gestalt for both Particularist (Nationalist) and Universalist (Globalist) schools of morality to read into what they want to read into. For the Universalists, the principles of Harmony a morality above race, cultural and history that successfully caused diverse groups to come together in harmony as one people. The current situation is no different, in that perspective, than the situation in the first Hearths Warming, and all of the races may be unified under Harmony. Under a different perspective, the principles of Harmony are hardly above culture, they are a part of culture, sometimes forced upon an unwilling populous. Though the three tribes of ponies may have succeeded in uniting as one, they were all from related cultural groups, they were all ponies, the process took the better part of a millennium, and resulted in an extinction of languages and cultures that would be lamented if it took place in the present day. Equestria’s unification isn’t a refutation of the idea of the nation, but an example of how a single nation is made, and the only lesson history provides for the current situation is that Equestria’s ponies and cultural are worth preserving.
Okay, so this is something I've put a decent bit of autism into.
I did a test of the size of Equestria using the speed of naval vessels (since they maintain a consistent speed) from Village Up North to the Spa Islands, and from the Spa Islands to Trotsas. I got dimensions of equestria that I cannot precisely remember, but I think it was something around nearly exactly 1000 miles wide and ~1700 miles North to South, for a land area of about 1.7 million miles for all of Equestria, Stalliongrad, and the Crystal Empire put together. I did another test using the range of aircraft (assuming that "range" listed is twice the radius of the circle appearing on the map because the planes have to make a return trip on the same fuel), and it came out to about the same numbers. Of course any test using land units gives a much higher estimate for the size of Equestria. Either it's because the land units have a much less consistent speed, or the size of the land area actually is vastly greater than the size of the naval and/or air map. I will admit that tests using land units give pretty much the estimate you give. If the 1.7 million square mile area is acccurate, then there's a population of 80 million ponies living in an area just over half the size of the continental US. The population of the US in 1940 was 120 million, so that would mean a higher population density than the US at that time. Of course if the actual size of Equestria is greater than all of North America, that's a much lower population density.
As for climate, I'm a bit less apologetic about that one. Looking at a map of Equestria, there's a large section that is clearly modeled on the US eastern seaboard, and a section south of that that includes jungles modeled on those of Mexico, and desert-like "badlands." Baltimare is located immediately next to the Hayseed swamps (which seems to be based more or less on the Louisiana swamps), and not very far at all north of dense rain-forest. To be sure, it's slightly further north, and of course ocean circulation will alter the climate significantly in one direction or the other, but I see no reason at all to assume that Baltimare isn't a subtropical coastal city like Houston or Jacksonville. Maybe not Cuba climate levels, but it seems like a location that experiences no more than a week of temperatures below freezing a year, and probably even less than that.
As for cultures, autonomy, and politics, well, I know at least what I am operating with in Occupied Equestria. In this presentation of Equestria, Equestria was formerly a confederation of culturally distinct tribes that through a long and labored process of cultural assimilation because a single, unified, nation-state with one culture, a shared language and values. (Of course, Severyana, the Tenochtitlan Basin, the Crystal Empire, and Sonambula’s homeland never underwent this process completely). Equestria has gone from many distinct tribes that were historical enemies and only reigned in by the alicorns, into a single nation with a common identity that has inertia after the loss of the Alicorn sisters. Look to France, and perhaps Spain, for a historical example of a similar set of disparate cultures that were forged into a single cultural unit over time, mostly by means of a few strong willed political leaders.
I am not sure if this is what is actually going on in the cannon. Certainly when we see the Equestria of a thousand years ago in Hearths Warming Eve, and in the episodes featuring the Pillars of Equestria, it looks more diverse and multi-cultural than the Equestria of the episodes we see based in the present. To be sure, the Equestria of the present is somewhat diverse, in the same way the United States (minus immigrant populations) is diverse – we see Ponyville, Canterlot, Manehattan, and places like the Smoky Mountains in the Hooffields and McColts – but it’s not nearly as diverse as the Japanese, Scottish, Egyptian, Greek, and Louisianan milieu we see with the Pillars, or even the French, German, and Greek inspired cultural differences we see in Hearths Warming Eve. So maybe Equestria has become more culturally homogeneous over the years in cannon. Or maybe we’re just seeing wider and further away parts of Equestria for the first time in those episodes. I don’t know.
Regardless, I’m going with a historical progression from confederation of diverse tribes to a nation-state until the graces of an absolute(?) monarch for a simple thematic reason: the history of Equestria is a gestalt for both Particularist (Nationalist) and Universalist (Globalist) schools of morality to read into what they want to read into. For the Universalists, the principles of Harmony a morality above race, cultural and history that successfully caused diverse groups to come together in harmony as one people. The current situation is no different, in that perspective, than the situation in the first Hearths Warming, and all of the races may be unified under Harmony. Under a different perspective, the principles of Harmony are hardly above culture, they are a part of culture, sometimes forced upon an unwilling populous. Though the three tribes of ponies may have succeeded in uniting as one, they were all from related cultural groups, they were all ponies, the process took the better part of a millennium, and resulted in an extinction of languages and cultures that would be lamented if it took place in the present day. Equestria’s unification isn’t a refutation of the idea of the nation, but an example of how a single nation is made, and the only lesson history provides for the current situation is that Equestria’s ponies and cultural are worth preserving.
>>132140
Yay! More ponies that are playing EaW! Maybe we can all play one big game someday. They attempted to show that there is divide in the kingdom with Stalliongrad and if you trigger the civil war, several states are broken off that are typically rather independent or far enough away from the capital. But as far as the majority of the loyalty is concerned, the monarchs have the mane six to do PR friendship stunts, which stories of are spread across the kingdom to ensure loyalty. Then there are the different celebrations and games that take place in Equestria and the Crystal Empire. Perhaps not perfect answers, but I like to think it isn't completely unreasonable.
>>132141
Damn. I thought I knew this game well...
Yay! More ponies that are playing EaW! Maybe we can all play one big game someday. They attempted to show that there is divide in the kingdom with Stalliongrad and if you trigger the civil war, several states are broken off that are typically rather independent or far enough away from the capital. But as far as the majority of the loyalty is concerned, the monarchs have the mane six to do PR friendship stunts, which stories of are spread across the kingdom to ensure loyalty. Then there are the different celebrations and games that take place in Equestria and the Crystal Empire. Perhaps not perfect answers, but I like to think it isn't completely unreasonable.
>>132141
Damn. I thought I knew this game well...
If you don't want to tell Maakie's story, that's okay. I'd rather play and not hear his story than not play and not hear his story.
>>132047
Maakie answers:
"You want to know my story? Now? After all of this." He seems to grimace. "Heh! Very well. I shall tell you. Whether it can replace the story you've made for me in your mind, that is for you to decide. I was born second son of a cobbler. Not an aristocrat, not landed money... but a cobbler. In the city there were griffins who walks around with ivory canes, top hats and finely tailored suits. They lived in grander homes and ran with better circles, while I was left in an apartment we shared with my uncle, and I wore the half wooden clogs my father made. At least until the alcohol hindered him in my adolescent years. Already, I knew that not every griffin who achieved power or wealth achieved it from luck. Some made their own. Skyfall was always an entrepot harbor, and the fall of the Empire just added a new layer of tariffs. Some griffs made fortunes by running through those.
Back then there was a mandatory military service for the Republic. I suppose there still is, but it was known to be quite easy to get out of. Those attending college, those who paid a fee, took a government job, or who apprenticed in a certain trade, for instance, never had to serve. But I did not have the money for college or for some deferment fee, and I did not care to follow in my father’s wooden clogs. Not that he was in much of a position to take an apprentice then anyways. No, I had a great grandfather who achieved distinction in the Imperial Navy. I wanted to follow him. So I joined the Republican Navy. Now, I did not want to stay holed up in harbor in grand, aging Imperial battleship. I knew where I wanted to be. I requested assignment with a frigate, and I was granted it. I spent years as an ensign chasing the wake of Hauklander corsairs. One night we disguised ourselves as a merchant ship, and a corsair vessel was foolish enough to approach. We boarded, and I fought in that battle. In that fight I distinguished myself, and not long after was made non-commissioned officer. A year passed, and another night we boarded a merchant vessel for inspection. We were set upon by corsairs, and the ship was overrun. I myself was kept at sword point by a Hauklander pirate, but he decided to leave me be. That moment never left me, and the Navy accepted my request to go to the naval school. It was hardly a true “Academy” experience, but after a couple years I was accepted as a navigator and commissioned officer on ships that patrol for pirates in the Feathesian Indies, or for slavers outside Colthage.
Now, I knew why I joined the Navy, and it wasn’t to hunt down pirates, or to become some great captain. No, I made careful note of every practice I saw among the merchant ships, how the corsairs disguised themselves as trawlers to hide from us in broad daylight. I talked to every captain I could in Sicameon, Colthage, and the Indies. More than one captured sailor was spared designation as “pirate,” because I felt they were more use alive than hanged.” He stops to smile at this point.
“I was not promoted, my commission ran out and I was discharged. I got to work immediately with a contact I made in Fereza, and then moved to shipping exotic freight from Equestria to Skyfall. This earned me wealth and let me carry the ivory cane, before being shut down. But it was what I learned from the traders in Colthage that became my greatest success. Creatures will pay greatly to move from one point to another, and where they don’t have money, will gladly sell themselves into indentured servitude. I won’t bother you with the full details, suffice it to say my success attracted the attention of more than one government. I left Skyfall for good and set up in Fereza and Nova Griffonia. But Equestria… Equestria is so desired as an end point for creatures, but it can be a hard environment to work with. Organized crime has so much of a hold over labor in the cities, and unions and city councils do where they do not. It can be hard to keep indentured servants in Equestrian cities… until I found a location nearly built for the purpose, here in Baltimare. And of my trials and troubles since then… well, you know at least the basics of that.”
He looks up at Silver with an almost smug smile. His wings – black and smoky tips ending long, white feathers – are halfway folded.
Maakie answers:
"You want to know my story? Now? After all of this." He seems to grimace. "Heh! Very well. I shall tell you. Whether it can replace the story you've made for me in your mind, that is for you to decide. I was born second son of a cobbler. Not an aristocrat, not landed money... but a cobbler. In the city there were griffins who walks around with ivory canes, top hats and finely tailored suits. They lived in grander homes and ran with better circles, while I was left in an apartment we shared with my uncle, and I wore the half wooden clogs my father made. At least until the alcohol hindered him in my adolescent years. Already, I knew that not every griffin who achieved power or wealth achieved it from luck. Some made their own. Skyfall was always an entrepot harbor, and the fall of the Empire just added a new layer of tariffs. Some griffs made fortunes by running through those.
Back then there was a mandatory military service for the Republic. I suppose there still is, but it was known to be quite easy to get out of. Those attending college, those who paid a fee, took a government job, or who apprenticed in a certain trade, for instance, never had to serve. But I did not have the money for college or for some deferment fee, and I did not care to follow in my father’s wooden clogs. Not that he was in much of a position to take an apprentice then anyways. No, I had a great grandfather who achieved distinction in the Imperial Navy. I wanted to follow him. So I joined the Republican Navy. Now, I did not want to stay holed up in harbor in grand, aging Imperial battleship. I knew where I wanted to be. I requested assignment with a frigate, and I was granted it. I spent years as an ensign chasing the wake of Hauklander corsairs. One night we disguised ourselves as a merchant ship, and a corsair vessel was foolish enough to approach. We boarded, and I fought in that battle. In that fight I distinguished myself, and not long after was made non-commissioned officer. A year passed, and another night we boarded a merchant vessel for inspection. We were set upon by corsairs, and the ship was overrun. I myself was kept at sword point by a Hauklander pirate, but he decided to leave me be. That moment never left me, and the Navy accepted my request to go to the naval school. It was hardly a true “Academy” experience, but after a couple years I was accepted as a navigator and commissioned officer on ships that patrol for pirates in the Feathesian Indies, or for slavers outside Colthage.
Now, I knew why I joined the Navy, and it wasn’t to hunt down pirates, or to become some great captain. No, I made careful note of every practice I saw among the merchant ships, how the corsairs disguised themselves as trawlers to hide from us in broad daylight. I talked to every captain I could in Sicameon, Colthage, and the Indies. More than one captured sailor was spared designation as “pirate,” because I felt they were more use alive than hanged.” He stops to smile at this point.
“I was not promoted, my commission ran out and I was discharged. I got to work immediately with a contact I made in Fereza, and then moved to shipping exotic freight from Equestria to Skyfall. This earned me wealth and let me carry the ivory cane, before being shut down. But it was what I learned from the traders in Colthage that became my greatest success. Creatures will pay greatly to move from one point to another, and where they don’t have money, will gladly sell themselves into indentured servitude. I won’t bother you with the full details, suffice it to say my success attracted the attention of more than one government. I left Skyfall for good and set up in Fereza and Nova Griffonia. But Equestria… Equestria is so desired as an end point for creatures, but it can be a hard environment to work with. Organized crime has so much of a hold over labor in the cities, and unions and city councils do where they do not. It can be hard to keep indentured servants in Equestrian cities… until I found a location nearly built for the purpose, here in Baltimare. And of my trials and troubles since then… well, you know at least the basics of that.”
He looks up at Silver with an almost smug smile. His wings – black and smoky tips ending long, white feathers – are halfway folded.
>>132122
Waabishki does a small nod, and answers
"Yes. When I was an adolescent. The ponies came in south of our lands, in forests we used to hunt, and tore out the ground with machines. They tore down trees, removed the soil, and piled dirt high, so that when it rained the dirt flowed into the lakes and streams and killed the fish. This caused the forest great pain and angered the spirits. So we retaliated, and started to skirmish with the ponies. Some huts and and cabins were burned. My father had to go further north to hunt because there were fewer fish in the lakes here, and was kicked in the face by a moose. This was very bad, as he could no longer hunt or even eat well.
That is when they came. It was two mares only, unarmed. They came into the village to talk. I could not understand them well, but I do remember the yellow one. She walked up to me and looked at me. Then she turned her hoof upside down, and a butterfly landed on it. She moved her hoof to my snout, and the butterfly moved onto my snout. I stared at the butterfly on the end of my nose, and the bluejays joined in chorus. It was incredible to see a pony in tune with nature in that way. My father was impressed by them in a different way. They offered to give him false teeth, made of metal, that would let him continue to eat. He was very grateful, and he told our band that he had learned something new from the ponies. He said that their way of using technology was good, because it allowed creatures to live in a way that is less harsh than what nature alone could provide. It was not against nature, but a new way of living in harmony with it. And to the extent that it is not in harmony with nature, the benefits it provides to our lives is worth it. That is what he said, anyways.
The ponies never stopped tearing down forest or ripping up the soil. But the orange pony helped move the dirt, and built berms so that the rains would not wash it into the river. The fish came back, and my father decided for closer cooperation with the ponies. The ponies sent us more medicine, and he decided to provide a tutor for me to learn ponish. Miskobag took a part time job helping to build houses in the pony town south of here, and my father even brought in a wolf who was raised in a pony school and family to be his replacement as captain of the hunt. That is how things were with the ponies, until the doubles came."
Waabishki does a small nod, and answers
"Yes. When I was an adolescent. The ponies came in south of our lands, in forests we used to hunt, and tore out the ground with machines. They tore down trees, removed the soil, and piled dirt high, so that when it rained the dirt flowed into the lakes and streams and killed the fish. This caused the forest great pain and angered the spirits. So we retaliated, and started to skirmish with the ponies. Some huts and and cabins were burned. My father had to go further north to hunt because there were fewer fish in the lakes here, and was kicked in the face by a moose. This was very bad, as he could no longer hunt or even eat well.
That is when they came. It was two mares only, unarmed. They came into the village to talk. I could not understand them well, but I do remember the yellow one. She walked up to me and looked at me. Then she turned her hoof upside down, and a butterfly landed on it. She moved her hoof to my snout, and the butterfly moved onto my snout. I stared at the butterfly on the end of my nose, and the bluejays joined in chorus. It was incredible to see a pony in tune with nature in that way. My father was impressed by them in a different way. They offered to give him false teeth, made of metal, that would let him continue to eat. He was very grateful, and he told our band that he had learned something new from the ponies. He said that their way of using technology was good, because it allowed creatures to live in a way that is less harsh than what nature alone could provide. It was not against nature, but a new way of living in harmony with it. And to the extent that it is not in harmony with nature, the benefits it provides to our lives is worth it. That is what he said, anyways.
The ponies never stopped tearing down forest or ripping up the soil. But the orange pony helped move the dirt, and built berms so that the rains would not wash it into the river. The fish came back, and my father decided for closer cooperation with the ponies. The ponies sent us more medicine, and he decided to provide a tutor for me to learn ponish. Miskobag took a part time job helping to build houses in the pony town south of here, and my father even brought in a wolf who was raised in a pony school and family to be his replacement as captain of the hunt. That is how things were with the ponies, until the doubles came."
>>132154
Silver nods after being quiet during Maakie's story, only speaking once he's done.
"I suppose I know basics, yes. I can see why you would become smuggler and trafficker. I do wonder, is there anything you have done before you regret? Choices made, paths left untravelled?"
Silver nods after being quiet during Maakie's story, only speaking once he's done.
"I suppose I know basics, yes. I can see why you would become smuggler and trafficker. I do wonder, is there anything you have done before you regret? Choices made, paths left untravelled?"
>>132155
"The relationship with changelings will not be as smooth as with ponies I am afraid. I will have my work cut out for me."
"The relationship with changelings will not be as smooth as with ponies I am afraid. I will have my work cut out for me."
>>132157
"So it is. I am not so sure about the path my father took with the ponies. To me it seems the pony way of life brings as many pains as comforts. I do not think the sickness that is consuming Miskobag came from the forest, and he is too young to be as ill as he is. It seems the Iron and metal of the ponies has not improved their lot, as they have fallen to the doubles all the same, why we who live with and in the forest have evaded them. My father has set up as his apparent successor a wolf who is clever, strong willed and a natural leader,"
She comes a little closer and tries to whisper the next part. She speaks through her rows of teeth
"but who has little knowledge of or respect for our people, our customs and culture, and who was selected mostly for exogamy"
She resumes speaking normally, pulling a little further away
"But that is how it is now."
>>132156
"Yes. I should have never tried to moor the Kleine Terreur outside the Prachtig Bos mangroves. I should have shot Klaus Grindel when I had the chance, and should have never trusted that damned accountant. I should have seen to it myself that that the work tables were secure that day in '07, I should have remained in Weter and let that she-hyena take care of things in Baltimare, and I am wondering if the deal I made with Anhänger Altewege was ever worth it. So many things, big and small. Those are only the beginning.
But in another sort of way, I do not regret anything. Those of us not born fortunate have to roll the dice ourselves. You take an action, and you learn the consequences later. Sometimes you don't even know what the consequences mean. I poured my heart into two different grifs, and even now I do not know if that was good or bad. I don't think I could have known how things would end before I acted. Not really anyways. And life only ever ends in death, whatever choices you make."
"So it is. I am not so sure about the path my father took with the ponies. To me it seems the pony way of life brings as many pains as comforts. I do not think the sickness that is consuming Miskobag came from the forest, and he is too young to be as ill as he is. It seems the Iron and metal of the ponies has not improved their lot, as they have fallen to the doubles all the same, why we who live with and in the forest have evaded them. My father has set up as his apparent successor a wolf who is clever, strong willed and a natural leader,"
She comes a little closer and tries to whisper the next part. She speaks through her rows of teeth
"but who has little knowledge of or respect for our people, our customs and culture, and who was selected mostly for exogamy"
She resumes speaking normally, pulling a little further away
"But that is how it is now."
>>132156
"Yes. I should have never tried to moor the Kleine Terreur outside the Prachtig Bos mangroves. I should have shot Klaus Grindel when I had the chance, and should have never trusted that damned accountant. I should have seen to it myself that that the work tables were secure that day in '07, I should have remained in Weter and let that she-hyena take care of things in Baltimare, and I am wondering if the deal I made with Anhänger Altewege was ever worth it. So many things, big and small. Those are only the beginning.
But in another sort of way, I do not regret anything. Those of us not born fortunate have to roll the dice ourselves. You take an action, and you learn the consequences later. Sometimes you don't even know what the consequences mean. I poured my heart into two different grifs, and even now I do not know if that was good or bad. I don't think I could have known how things would end before I acted. Not really anyways. And life only ever ends in death, whatever choices you make."
>>132158
"Hmm... perhaps you can fix both problems however. If your father is treated for his illness, then he could change the appointed successor, or at least the successor can be taught to respect your ways."
"Hmm... perhaps you can fix both problems however. If your father is treated for his illness, then he could change the appointed successor, or at least the successor can be taught to respect your ways."
>>132161
"I should go now, but that was quite enlightening."
He offers Maakie a hoofshake.
"I wish you best of luck in your future endeavours. Perhaps next time we meet, we shall meet as aquintances rather than as enemies."
"I should go now, but that was quite enlightening."
He offers Maakie a hoofshake.
"I wish you best of luck in your future endeavours. Perhaps next time we meet, we shall meet as aquintances rather than as enemies."
Brie stands erect at first, but upon verifying the stature, bends into a deep and maybe a little over the top bow, upon (so far) confirming that this is in fact a/the queen.
He stays low, waiting for her to gesture or call him up. Surely that's how they do things, right?
He stays low, waiting for her to gesture or call him up. Surely that's how they do things, right?
>>132164
And she speaks to him first, standing a bit further out than the drone behind her.
She speaks to him in non-accented ponish
"You are the 'crazy bat' I have heard about? Who wants help in inflitration? Is that right?"
And she speaks to him first, standing a bit further out than the drone behind her.
She speaks to him in non-accented ponish
"You are the 'crazy bat' I have heard about? Who wants help in inflitration? Is that right?"
>>132162
"We have tried... I assure you, we have tried"
She looks down
"And he was the medicinewolf himself."
>>132163
"Perhaps. You are not the first to conquer me nor to spare me. But one more thing... There is a location in the mangrove near the mouth, about 300 meters east of the end of Sicamore street. 10 meters due north of the willow tree, there is a case in the water."
"We have tried... I assure you, we have tried"
She looks down
"And he was the medicinewolf himself."
>>132163
"Perhaps. You are not the first to conquer me nor to spare me. But one more thing... There is a location in the mangrove near the mouth, about 300 meters east of the end of Sicamore street. 10 meters due north of the willow tree, there is a case in the water."
>>132165
"Clever bat," he corrects. "Its simple mistake. I was certain to specify, but it's easily lost in translation. Please spare your subordinates." He dips politely. "But yes. I'm pleased you have heard of me. Mayhaps I not be about to be executed?" He asks, peaning a bit to the right
"Clever bat," he corrects. "Its simple mistake. I was certain to specify, but it's easily lost in translation. Please spare your subordinates." He dips politely. "But yes. I'm pleased you have heard of me. Mayhaps I not be about to be executed?" He asks, peaning a bit to the right
>>132167
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6OifhQ64EM
From behind Brie, a big black dog walks up. It's one of the two dogs Brie first saw at Roosevelt back in Bales, and has since seen follwing behind the cart, or on the porch in the cabin in the woods, and here at the mine. The big black dog - looks like a Labrador - walks up towards the queen. Then, with a glow of green light, the dog shifts forms, though his appearance changes only so much as it becomes a lean changeling drone, already wearing a brown uniform and a blue cap.
The drone stands off to the side and the queen says to him,
"Lavren? Your report?"
The drone responds in a heavy accent
"The bat has travelled here directly from the border crossing at Bales, stopping in North Eastern Boulderfield where he encountered a bugbear and a group of deserters. He came here and interrogated the leadership. He seems to have in the span of twelve hours successfully routed out not one, but three gendarme troops infected with some kind of local curse or whatever, with no collateral damage. This was a situation the local garrison had hidden for months."
The queen looks back to Brie with a smile
"Alright. We can stay your execution."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6OifhQ64EM
From behind Brie, a big black dog walks up. It's one of the two dogs Brie first saw at Roosevelt back in Bales, and has since seen follwing behind the cart, or on the porch in the cabin in the woods, and here at the mine. The big black dog - looks like a Labrador - walks up towards the queen. Then, with a glow of green light, the dog shifts forms, though his appearance changes only so much as it becomes a lean changeling drone, already wearing a brown uniform and a blue cap.
The drone stands off to the side and the queen says to him,
"Lavren? Your report?"
The drone responds in a heavy accent
"The bat has travelled here directly from the border crossing at Bales, stopping in North Eastern Boulderfield where he encountered a bugbear and a group of deserters. He came here and interrogated the leadership. He seems to have in the span of twelve hours successfully routed out not one, but three gendarme troops infected with some kind of local curse or whatever, with no collateral damage. This was a situation the local garrison had hidden for months."
The queen looks back to Brie with a smile
"Alright. We can stay your execution."
>>132168
"Splendid! Then, to the infiltration!" He forgets himself and animatedly springs into a gaunt posture. "Ivw heard alot about you, and I feel that I can be advantageous to your operations, and that by doing so you might have a vested interest in mine." He says with a bit of a flourish, bowing his head.
"You've heard, I assume, of the jungetiere?" He says, tipping up enough to meet her gaze with a bit of,... something on his mind that gives him confidence.
"Splendid! Then, to the infiltration!" He forgets himself and animatedly springs into a gaunt posture. "Ivw heard alot about you, and I feel that I can be advantageous to your operations, and that by doing so you might have a vested interest in mine." He says with a bit of a flourish, bowing his head.
"You've heard, I assume, of the jungetiere?" He says, tipping up enough to meet her gaze with a bit of,... something on his mind that gives him confidence.
>>132169
"The young ones? No, I have not."
Wesley and Kerr walk up towards Brie, looking in fascination at the large queen
"The young ones? No, I have not."
Wesley and Kerr walk up towards Brie, looking in fascination at the large queen
>>132170
His voice grows soft. "Hier jungetiere. Dies ist die Königin, die wir gesucht haben. Bitte präsentieren Sie sich ihr." And he bows lowest and most deferrentially to the lings.
His voice grows soft. "Hier jungetiere. Dies ist die Königin, die wir gesucht haben. Bitte präsentieren Sie sich ihr." And he bows lowest and most deferrentially to the lings.
>>132171
Kerr is the first to drop his disguise, running up towards the queen
"Unsere Königin? Ich bin es, 'Kerr.'"
Wesley is only a second behind
"Mutter?"
He drops his own disguise, and runs in a hop towards the queen. She picks them up with a glow of blue magic, and holds them both close to her with a half smile. She speaks to them
"Kleine Kinder? Bist du verloren gegangen?"
She starts to pat them with magic
Kerr:
"Ja. Wir sind jetzt seit Monaten in Ponyland gefangen."
Queen:
"Das klingt schrecklich. Wie ist es passiert?"
Wesley:
"Ponys haben uns aus unserer Kolonie in Tall Tales entführt?"
Queen:
"Haben sie dich verletzt?"
Wesley:
"Ja. Sehr viel. Ich würde lieber nicht sagen wie. Diese Fledermaus hat uns gerettet."
A look of sheer hatred comes across her face. She uses her magic to move both nymphs to her her shoulders, and past eye contact.
Queen:
"Ihr armen armen Dinger. Keine Sorge. Alle deine Schmerzen sollen gerächt werden."
Kerr:
"Nun, lass sie leiden wie wir"
Queen:
"Wie bist du hierher zurückgekommen?"
Wesley:
"Die Fledermaus hat uns mitgenommen"
Her face looks more inquisitive at the moment, and she looks back to Brie, pondering the words
Queen:
"Bist du jetzt okay?"
Wesley:
"Ja. Die Fledermaus half uns zu füttern."
Kerr:
"Es ist jetzt besser, dass wir bei dir sind"
She seems to pet them, and speaks more softly
"Mach dir keine Sorgen, Kleine. Dir geht es jetzt gut"
She looks back to Brie, and says to him,
"I have lost many of my own drones. Far too many. And all of Changelingia has lost too many drones. To have these two back is a splendid suprise
Wesley
"Du bist unsere Mutter, richtig? Lacinia?
The queen speaks to Brie instead
"I thank you for saving them"
Kerr is the first to drop his disguise, running up towards the queen
"Unsere Königin? Ich bin es, 'Kerr.'"
Wesley is only a second behind
"Mutter?"
He drops his own disguise, and runs in a hop towards the queen. She picks them up with a glow of blue magic, and holds them both close to her with a half smile. She speaks to them
"Kleine Kinder? Bist du verloren gegangen?"
She starts to pat them with magic
Kerr:
"Ja. Wir sind jetzt seit Monaten in Ponyland gefangen."
Queen:
"Das klingt schrecklich. Wie ist es passiert?"
Wesley:
"Ponys haben uns aus unserer Kolonie in Tall Tales entführt?"
Queen:
"Haben sie dich verletzt?"
Wesley:
"Ja. Sehr viel. Ich würde lieber nicht sagen wie. Diese Fledermaus hat uns gerettet."
A look of sheer hatred comes across her face. She uses her magic to move both nymphs to her her shoulders, and past eye contact.
Queen:
"Ihr armen armen Dinger. Keine Sorge. Alle deine Schmerzen sollen gerächt werden."
Kerr:
"Nun, lass sie leiden wie wir"
Queen:
"Wie bist du hierher zurückgekommen?"
Wesley:
"Die Fledermaus hat uns mitgenommen"
Her face looks more inquisitive at the moment, and she looks back to Brie, pondering the words
Queen:
"Bist du jetzt okay?"
Wesley:
"Ja. Die Fledermaus half uns zu füttern."
Kerr:
"Es ist jetzt besser, dass wir bei dir sind"
She seems to pet them, and speaks more softly
"Mach dir keine Sorgen, Kleine. Dir geht es jetzt gut"
She looks back to Brie, and says to him,
"I have lost many of my own drones. Far too many. And all of Changelingia has lost too many drones. To have these two back is a splendid suprise
Wesley
"Du bist unsere Mutter, richtig? Lacinia?
The queen speaks to Brie instead
"I thank you for saving them"
>>132172
He looks to them. "It was my pleasure. And it is their displeasure that bids me to journey to speak with you." He turns to her, bowing slightly as he does so "There are many things wrong with pony society. The sort of thing I understand that changelings neither tolerate nor are merciful toward." He glances again to the lings "Predations, of a perverse and purely gratifying and non-substantial nature." He says as though the mention bitters his mouth. "And many of them enjoy positions of power, esteem, and influence."
He spins to face her directly, his forelegs outstretched. "I would see them routed and replaced by changelings,
Operating with otherwise legitimacy against a rogue and underground element. Me."
He looks to them. "It was my pleasure. And it is their displeasure that bids me to journey to speak with you." He turns to her, bowing slightly as he does so "There are many things wrong with pony society. The sort of thing I understand that changelings neither tolerate nor are merciful toward." He glances again to the lings "Predations, of a perverse and purely gratifying and non-substantial nature." He says as though the mention bitters his mouth. "And many of them enjoy positions of power, esteem, and influence."
He spins to face her directly, his forelegs outstretched. "I would see them routed and replaced by changelings,
Operating with otherwise legitimacy against a rogue and underground element. Me."
>>132173
"They become erstwhile heroes of ponykind in baltimare, while I rule in the shadows, with covert coordination between the two groups."
"They become erstwhile heroes of ponykind in baltimare, while I rule in the shadows, with covert coordination between the two groups."
>>132175
"I play the rogueish deviant - a bit out of character for me to be honest but I can manage - and they play the dutiful protagonists, righting wrongs and all that. I cut my way with their assistance to the bottom of the underground, and they with my hand work their way to the top of baltimare establishment."
"I play the rogueish deviant - a bit out of character for me to be honest but I can manage - and they play the dutiful protagonists, righting wrongs and all that. I cut my way with their assistance to the bottom of the underground, and they with my hand work their way to the top of baltimare establishment."
>>132173
>>132176
>>132177
She nods almost sternly, with a still angry expression across her face. The two nymphs take up a position on her back, with Wesley hugging her neck, and Kerr sitting upright. She's much larger than any pony mare, about the size of one of the smaller alicorns. Her thorax is translucent blue and bulging, with the outlines of what appear to be eggs visible inside her. Her wings are blue and close to her side. She wears a plain tiara over her matted blue hair that lacks any sort of intricacy.
"As they should be replaced. The only predation in the Changeling order is that of Changelings over their natural prey. And even that predation is carefully ordered, measured, and calculated to be as merciful to the prey and as sustainable for Changeling kind as conditions will allow. Equestria has allowed far too much rot to build over the years. And it must be cleansed before it spills over onto our shores. But first, you understand that there is an official peace between Pony Equestria and Changeling Equestria, and that any act of violence of that nature would be considered a violation of the treaty, do you not?"
>>132174
"And I will accept your apology"
He gives Silver a claw shake. His shake is very firm.
>>132176
>>132177
She nods almost sternly, with a still angry expression across her face. The two nymphs take up a position on her back, with Wesley hugging her neck, and Kerr sitting upright. She's much larger than any pony mare, about the size of one of the smaller alicorns. Her thorax is translucent blue and bulging, with the outlines of what appear to be eggs visible inside her. Her wings are blue and close to her side. She wears a plain tiara over her matted blue hair that lacks any sort of intricacy.
"As they should be replaced. The only predation in the Changeling order is that of Changelings over their natural prey. And even that predation is carefully ordered, measured, and calculated to be as merciful to the prey and as sustainable for Changeling kind as conditions will allow. Equestria has allowed far too much rot to build over the years. And it must be cleansed before it spills over onto our shores. But first, you understand that there is an official peace between Pony Equestria and Changeling Equestria, and that any act of violence of that nature would be considered a violation of the treaty, do you not?"
>>132174
"And I will accept your apology"
He gives Silver a claw shake. His shake is very firm.
>>132178
"Indeed, and any transgressions against such a treaty would be easily and readily levied against a NOT-clever bat, should there be any in thg e periphery." He says glancing around exaggeratingly, before meeting her gaze subtly, as if to say "I know the score, and if I fail, I can be a resource one way or another."
"Indeed, and any transgressions against such a treaty would be easily and readily levied against a NOT-clever bat, should there be any in thg e periphery." He says glancing around exaggeratingly, before meeting her gaze subtly, as if to say "I know the score, and if I fail, I can be a resource one way or another."
>>132178
Silver's is similarly firm, and he appears grateful for the amicable farewell and show of trust from Maakie. He puts his hoof down after the hoof/clawshake, and looks to Mala.
"Are you ready?"
Silver's is similarly firm, and he appears grateful for the amicable farewell and show of trust from Maakie. He puts his hoof down after the hoof/clawshake, and looks to Mala.
"Are you ready?"
>>132179
She forms a malign grin
"Indeed. It sounds like you understand your role. Let me enlighten you as to mine. Tell me, what do you know about the previous attempts to infiltrate Equestria? Before the War, that is."
She tilts her head, looking over to Brie truly eager in anticipation
>>132180
Mala nods, and answers "Yes." He has a couple guns on his back
She forms a malign grin
"Indeed. It sounds like you understand your role. Let me enlighten you as to mine. Tell me, what do you know about the previous attempts to infiltrate Equestria? Before the War, that is."
She tilts her head, looking over to Brie truly eager in anticipation
>>132180
Mala nods, and answers "Yes." He has a couple guns on his back
>>132181
Silver nods, gives Maakie one last farewell, and heads out to a hopefully still-waiting taxi.
Silver nods, gives Maakie one last farewell, and heads out to a hopefully still-waiting taxi.
>>132183
Silver gives the driver directions from his map for...whatever place where he can get the reward for the Hoebuck job.
Silver gives the driver directions from his map for...whatever place where he can get the reward for the Hoebuck job.
>>132185
Delighted, the queen looks over to Brie, not always making eye contact but sometimes looking up, around, or past him
"I shall tell you. Our last effort was Gotterdamerung, just over six years ago now. The plan was to replace all of the princesses and the elements all at once. Install ourselves as rulers of Equetsria without the ponies even knowing. But it failed. And Queen Chrysalis decided after the failure of Gotterdamerung that our armed forces would focus on conventional attacks over deep infiltration.
Tell me? Do you know how Gotterdamerung failed? I don’t need to hear your answer, because I know you don’t know how it failed. No one knows, or appreciates just how close we came to success. No one knows, save for me. I was there. I was the Changeling chosen to take the place of The Queen of the Crystal Empire, Princess “Mi Amore Cadenza.” That’s the exact same role that Queen Chrysalis herself took in Operation Nos Separaverit just four years before. I was ready. Our infiltrator in the Royal Guard supplied us with great information. We neutralized the guards, set up sound suppressing barriers in the rooms, and caught the Princess and her Captain of the Guard consort as they slept. We knocked them out and I placed on a disguise. We had the cart outside waiting. Everything was going perfectly. Do you know why it failed?”
She grits her sharpened teeth in anger
“Because of a single orange unicorn. He showed up that night to take take care of the baby, or something. Oh, we knew he was there. We sent a detachment of guards to his room to take care of him. But he wasn’t there. Do you know why? because he got up to go to the bathroom and wasn’t in his room. He must have not understood that the closest bathroom was only two doors down, because he went the opposite direction. I was passing by with a group of drones and the two capitives, unconscious and on our backs. He popped out of that door and saw us. When he adjusted his glasses, he saw what was going on, and he turned to run away. I sent a powerful bolt to hold him from my own horn, but do you know what happened then? His shoe fell off. He had it poorly nailed in. He fell and the bolt missed. It gave him enough time to yell and shoot out a bolt of his own. Oh, it hit no where near us, it went in the opposite direction in fact. But it hit a window, and caused an explosion. That explosion was noticed by a passing mare – what she was doing wondering about at 3 AM I have no idea – who notified the remaining guard, and who eventually notified the guard in Canterlot and Ponyville, whose respective operations were otherwise successful. That is why Gotterdamerung failed. Because of a series of stupid happenstances that we could never have prepared for, and which were unlikely to happen to begin with.
But is that the message Chrysalis got from it? No. She couldn’t be angry at my failure. After all, she failed to do exactly the same thing herself a few years before. But the whole situation persuaded her to abandon the gift The Great Mother gave us – our one natural way of dealing with enemies – and to pursue a more… “head on” approach, as she put it. No more infiltration – no more infiltration as the primary strategy, anyways. The take over of Equestria would be accomplished by sheer force. There’s “fewer moving parts,” “more simplicity,” and “less that can go wrong.” So her advisers told her. The conquest of Equestria would be accomplished by Iron and blood in ‘Schwarm aus Stahl’.”
She directs her eyes over the mining machinery, and then up to the train that moves past
“So very much iron, and so very much blood. So very, very much blood and iron.”
She looks back to Brie
“But it succeeded, barely, so the strategy is ‘vindicated.’ Never mind how successfully infiltration was used in support of operations, like securing the bridgeheads at Acornage, or reducing the fortifications at the Shire, or even how well it has worked in the occupation at taking out the crime syndicates in Las Pegasus. No. Because infiltration failed twice before, it is assumed to always fail. I do not think so. And that is why I want you. To prove that it can."
Delighted, the queen looks over to Brie, not always making eye contact but sometimes looking up, around, or past him
"I shall tell you. Our last effort was Gotterdamerung, just over six years ago now. The plan was to replace all of the princesses and the elements all at once. Install ourselves as rulers of Equetsria without the ponies even knowing. But it failed. And Queen Chrysalis decided after the failure of Gotterdamerung that our armed forces would focus on conventional attacks over deep infiltration.
Tell me? Do you know how Gotterdamerung failed? I don’t need to hear your answer, because I know you don’t know how it failed. No one knows, or appreciates just how close we came to success. No one knows, save for me. I was there. I was the Changeling chosen to take the place of The Queen of the Crystal Empire, Princess “Mi Amore Cadenza.” That’s the exact same role that Queen Chrysalis herself took in Operation Nos Separaverit just four years before. I was ready. Our infiltrator in the Royal Guard supplied us with great information. We neutralized the guards, set up sound suppressing barriers in the rooms, and caught the Princess and her Captain of the Guard consort as they slept. We knocked them out and I placed on a disguise. We had the cart outside waiting. Everything was going perfectly. Do you know why it failed?”
She grits her sharpened teeth in anger
“Because of a single orange unicorn. He showed up that night to take take care of the baby, or something. Oh, we knew he was there. We sent a detachment of guards to his room to take care of him. But he wasn’t there. Do you know why? because he got up to go to the bathroom and wasn’t in his room. He must have not understood that the closest bathroom was only two doors down, because he went the opposite direction. I was passing by with a group of drones and the two capitives, unconscious and on our backs. He popped out of that door and saw us. When he adjusted his glasses, he saw what was going on, and he turned to run away. I sent a powerful bolt to hold him from my own horn, but do you know what happened then? His shoe fell off. He had it poorly nailed in. He fell and the bolt missed. It gave him enough time to yell and shoot out a bolt of his own. Oh, it hit no where near us, it went in the opposite direction in fact. But it hit a window, and caused an explosion. That explosion was noticed by a passing mare – what she was doing wondering about at 3 AM I have no idea – who notified the remaining guard, and who eventually notified the guard in Canterlot and Ponyville, whose respective operations were otherwise successful. That is why Gotterdamerung failed. Because of a series of stupid happenstances that we could never have prepared for, and which were unlikely to happen to begin with.
But is that the message Chrysalis got from it? No. She couldn’t be angry at my failure. After all, she failed to do exactly the same thing herself a few years before. But the whole situation persuaded her to abandon the gift The Great Mother gave us – our one natural way of dealing with enemies – and to pursue a more… “head on” approach, as she put it. No more infiltration – no more infiltration as the primary strategy, anyways. The take over of Equestria would be accomplished by sheer force. There’s “fewer moving parts,” “more simplicity,” and “less that can go wrong.” So her advisers told her. The conquest of Equestria would be accomplished by Iron and blood in ‘Schwarm aus Stahl’.”
She directs her eyes over the mining machinery, and then up to the train that moves past
“So very much iron, and so very much blood. So very, very much blood and iron.”
She looks back to Brie
“But it succeeded, barely, so the strategy is ‘vindicated.’ Never mind how successfully infiltration was used in support of operations, like securing the bridgeheads at Acornage, or reducing the fortifications at the Shire, or even how well it has worked in the occupation at taking out the crime syndicates in Las Pegasus. No. Because infiltration failed twice before, it is assumed to always fail. I do not think so. And that is why I want you. To prove that it can."
>>132186
Brie thinks long and hard about her explanation. "You do me an unnecessary service in relaying this, but it is beneficial. I can intuit from your descriptions a number of possible countermeasures to avoid detection. If you prefer I shall detail them, but if you'll pardon me saying its the sort of thing best illustrated through action. I will still detail, if you prefer spoilers." He says, waving a hoof passively and mostly reservedly.
Brie thinks long and hard about her explanation. "You do me an unnecessary service in relaying this, but it is beneficial. I can intuit from your descriptions a number of possible countermeasures to avoid detection. If you prefer I shall detail them, but if you'll pardon me saying its the sort of thing best illustrated through action. I will still detail, if you prefer spoilers." He says, waving a hoof passively and mostly reservedly.
>>132187
No need to explain to me. Explain to the workers who will be sent along with you on your journey and who will meet you there. Only so many resources can be spared, both because of cost and because of the risk of violating the treaty. You accomplish something, especially if it yields love extraction, and more may be sent your way. I do not take the risk to my children lightly. I value them far more than any pony, and I have far too many children in the Equestrian clay. But neither are my children cowards. They know that every Changeling is a part of the hive, and angling who dies for the sake of the hive dies not truly die, for they live on in their brothers and sisters.”
No need to explain to me. Explain to the workers who will be sent along with you on your journey and who will meet you there. Only so many resources can be spared, both because of cost and because of the risk of violating the treaty. You accomplish something, especially if it yields love extraction, and more may be sent your way. I do not take the risk to my children lightly. I value them far more than any pony, and I have far too many children in the Equestrian clay. But neither are my children cowards. They know that every Changeling is a part of the hive, and angling who dies for the sake of the hive dies not truly die, for they live on in their brothers and sisters.”
>>132187
Glancing about slightly, Brie takes the silence as opportunity to pack a small pipe full of tobacco. "Your pardon, your majesty" he says, tipping the pipe as though for permission.
Glancing about slightly, Brie takes the silence as opportunity to pack a small pipe full of tobacco. "Your pardon, your majesty" he says, tipping the pipe as though for permission.
>>132188
Puffing deeply on the pipe, Brie smiles and glances at Kerr and Wesley says. "Oh," and after a short pause turns again to smile, looking directly into her eyes. Her solid round, but also oddly hexagonal eyes. Just the tiniest slit divides an otherwise unbroken sphere. Its kinda hot, he thinks to himself, but this is business. "There is no doubt that your people are warriors. I would not be here otherwise."
Puffing deeply on the pipe, Brie smiles and glances at Kerr and Wesley says. "Oh," and after a short pause turns again to smile, looking directly into her eyes. Her solid round, but also oddly hexagonal eyes. Just the tiniest slit divides an otherwise unbroken sphere. Its kinda hot, he thinks to himself, but this is business. "There is no doubt that your people are warriors. I would not be here otherwise."
"But neither will there be deaths. Not by my will nor by my means."
And as he says this, his eyes widen a bit at emphasis of will and means.
And as he says this, his eyes widen a bit at emphasis of will and means.
>>132189
She moves her mouth about slightly, unsure how to respond, but then caries on
“We have a few assets there already, most likely. Love harvesters are not seen as treaty violations under secret provision 2a. They are still vulnerable to being hunted. A punitive expedition to hunt down Changeling slavers will be enough cover on my end for any such operation. But I think you already know how important it is to not be caught.”
>>132191
“Good. And I hope your experience here shows you how we deal with traitors and ineffectual subordinates. I will be sending along one of my political officers, Lavren here. He was there in the hallway that night. He knows what this is for. I trust him, and he knows how to maintain discretion even in capture.”
She moves her mouth about slightly, unsure how to respond, but then caries on
“We have a few assets there already, most likely. Love harvesters are not seen as treaty violations under secret provision 2a. They are still vulnerable to being hunted. A punitive expedition to hunt down Changeling slavers will be enough cover on my end for any such operation. But I think you already know how important it is to not be caught.”
>>132191
“Good. And I hope your experience here shows you how we deal with traitors and ineffectual subordinates. I will be sending along one of my political officers, Lavren here. He was there in the hallway that night. He knows what this is for. I trust him, and he knows how to maintain discretion even in capture.”
[1d20+4 = 5]
>>132193
Brie smiles and nods at Lavren as though to say "Let's not have to kill each other okay?" But with the nonchalance as though it was a long and appraising glance.
Bluff check, if desired or necessary
>>132193
Brie smiles and nods at Lavren as though to say "Let's not have to kill each other okay?" But with the nonchalance as though it was a long and appraising glance.
Bluff check, if desired or necessary
>>132197
She looks at him directly, with a bit of a smirk
“I hope you understand my purposes and conditions. Tell me, what else do you need, and need to know?”
She looks at him directly, with a bit of a smirk
“I hope you understand my purposes and conditions. Tell me, what else do you need, and need to know?”
>>132201
Mala looks up at Silver, his black, fuzzy snout coming fairly close to Silver.
"I think so" he answers
Mala looks up at Silver, his black, fuzzy snout coming fairly close to Silver.
"I think so" he answers
>>132203
"As far as I can tell, I have all I will need. That is, assuming you will permit me to continue the jungetiere's 'training'".
"As far as I can tell, I have all I will need. That is, assuming you will permit me to continue the jungetiere's 'training'".
>>132204
"And the vagabonds, they have done me good service,... after a bit of a beating but they seem proper enough."
"And the vagabonds, they have done me good service,... after a bit of a beating but they seem proper enough."
>>132204
>>132205
>>132203
Her eyes widen as she gives a wider smile, one that shows off her teeth and fangs
"Excellent. Lavren shall go with you. You can stay with the two nymphs here. They will help you identify their perpetrator, and their 'rescue' is the nominal goal of the mission. Those two deserters may go with you as well."
Lavren speak up
"They should be shot."
The queen shakes her head as if to brush the concern off
"Keep a close eye and do not trust them with much, but I only am able or willing to devote so many assets to this cause. If those two are lost, there is not much loss to the empire, and they can be credibly dismissed as rogue elements. Any fanciful stories they come up with can be dismissed as fabrications to earn the good grace of the ponies. The ponies have enough sense to understand this themselves, and will take what they say with caution."
>>132205
>>132203
Her eyes widen as she gives a wider smile, one that shows off her teeth and fangs
"Excellent. Lavren shall go with you. You can stay with the two nymphs here. They will help you identify their perpetrator, and their 'rescue' is the nominal goal of the mission. Those two deserters may go with you as well."
Lavren speak up
"They should be shot."
The queen shakes her head as if to brush the concern off
"Keep a close eye and do not trust them with much, but I only am able or willing to devote so many assets to this cause. If those two are lost, there is not much loss to the empire, and they can be credibly dismissed as rogue elements. Any fanciful stories they come up with can be dismissed as fabrications to earn the good grace of the ponies. The ponies have enough sense to understand this themselves, and will take what they say with caution."
>>132202
He gives his fuzzy friend a side hug, wrapping a foreleg around him.
"That is good to hear."
Unless Mala has more to talk about, Silver will remain silent for the rest of the ride.
He gives his fuzzy friend a side hug, wrapping a foreleg around him.
"That is good to hear."
Unless Mala has more to talk about, Silver will remain silent for the rest of the ride.
>>132207
The fluffy hyena is hugged, and Silver can feel both the long hair on his back, and the fat and muscle underneath. Mala closes his eyes for a moment, pleased. Then he says to Silver
"What did you think of all of that?"
The fluffy hyena is hugged, and Silver can feel both the long hair on his back, and the fat and muscle underneath. Mala closes his eyes for a moment, pleased. Then he says to Silver
"What did you think of all of that?"
File (): 6793430347D3A85B16436CABEA78819D-401574.jpg (392.2 KB, 1323x1043, EquusNorthAmericaComparison.jpg)
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1/2
>>132141
Good points. Still it's amazing how absolutely T H I C C Equus and Equestria are. I didn't go by your measurements but I overlaid North America over the continent. Going by north/south extremes with the top of Pingland corresponding with Ellesmere, North America is absolutely dwarfed. The second picture is as far as I would scale up NA, where the northmost of Equus corresponds with the edge of contiguous Canada and the southernmost point with southern Mexico. The second picture seems more reasonable because Equestria is roughly the size of the U.S. and Mexico combined, which is what Equestria is rather than just the U.S. Interestingly Baltimare DOES fall on the same latitude as Jacksonville.
Although this is an alternate explanation you're likely also right, though that makes the latitude scaling bonkers unless if the planet itself is significantly smaller than Earth. Or maybe everything is more south and closer to the equator; even the "arctic" regions of the far north reach balmy temperatures in summer. Maybe I should stop reading so much into the geography of a little girls' show and realize the mod developers had limited room to work with in map design for Equestria.
Going back to the whole regionalism discussion, I tried to map out (pic #5) what I think the major regions of Equestria would be how do you hide units?, trying to follow terrain and existing province borders as much as possible. I could see Equestria having a multi-layered system of federalism, with local, provincial, and regional governments have different amounts of autonomy under a central government. Also except for "The Heartland" and the north-central region (if that should be its own region at all, but you can militia units explicitly from there) the regions would be relatively "new" additions to Equestria composed of new cities, settlements and colonies. Over a thousand years ponies would have slowly (by human civilization standards, but not by Tolkien's) settled progressively more distant regions. Ignore that Ponyville is less than a hundred years old despite being a stone's throw from the capital. Or it could be that those regions were previously settled (definitely in the case of Tenochtitlan) and were gradually annexed under the flag of Equestria.
Also keep in mind that Stalliongrad is not all of Severyana (which is north of the off-white line). A good part of it (going by Stalliongrad's claims and the names of the provinces) still belongs to Equestria. Or maybe it's the case where these provinces are similar but different like how Belarus and Ukraine are related to Russia.
>>132145
I was worried that I wouldn't be able to play HOI4 (I just wanted to get it to run to look at maps) but my computer can run it at 3 or even 4 speed quite well so long as I turn my AC down all the way. A multiplayer game might actually be possible though my internet might prove to be a bottleneck. Do you recommend getting any of the DLCs? La Resistance looks quite with intelligence agencies and vroom vroom.
Now to be narcissistic, let me tell you a bit about my game as Equestria on recruit difficulty. This is the first time I've played HOI4 so I've had to learn everything, in a mod which is deliberately designed to be harder/unpredictable than the base game. I solved the batpony question with Luna and only had to reload after failing once (yes, I cheated and looked on the wiki but I had the right idea). I focused exclusively on enhancing research and building infrastructure/civilian factories in the eastern part of Equestria but by the time war broke out in early 1011 I still had only my original 17 mil factories. Needless to say I had trouble supplying everything except for the most basic equipment until well after the end of the war.
I absolutely thought I was going to lose to the Changelings. They declared war on me when I was only halfway through "The Twilight Project" (I was trying to get good tanks so I had no armored force to speak of) focus so I got Urgent War Committee late. Also I told my entire army group at once to man the entire fallback line and was wondering why all my divisions were moving around and leaving Las Pegasus open. I hadn't built airbases so once I lost the ones near the Changeling border I couldn't get air superiority. A few things saved me: the enemy didn't press the attack south of Las Pegasus which would have made defense impossible, despite having a few thousand planes they couldn't wrest air superiority from my few hundred Hurricanes and Spitfires (maybe not having airbases in the northwest was a 4D chess move), all the militia I called in somehow managed to hold the line while I built a proper army, and I managed to get Wildcats (Medium 1 TDs) to my Onhooves divisions to counter enemy tanks. Also the Crystal Empire after breaking away from me managed to modernize and fought a far more aggressive war than I could, taking more casualties (nearly a million) than me but eventually conquering the enemy hives. Pic #3 is as far as the Changelings managed to get and that line lasted for over a year, and I took that screenshot when I saw the enemy was about to collapse. By the time Stalliongrad joined the Changelings were already on the defensive. Victory was less dramatic than I thought it would be though, and in the peace deal I puppeted the Changelings but the Polar Bears somehow took all their territory, leaving the Changelings as a government-in-exile which capitulates as soon as you call them into a war. At least Olenia got released and I grabbed some border territory.
>>132141
Good points. Still it's amazing how absolutely T H I C C Equus and Equestria are. I didn't go by your measurements but I overlaid North America over the continent. Going by north/south extremes with the top of Pingland corresponding with Ellesmere, North America is absolutely dwarfed. The second picture is as far as I would scale up NA, where the northmost of Equus corresponds with the edge of contiguous Canada and the southernmost point with southern Mexico. The second picture seems more reasonable because Equestria is roughly the size of the U.S. and Mexico combined, which is what Equestria is rather than just the U.S. Interestingly Baltimare DOES fall on the same latitude as Jacksonville.
Although this is an alternate explanation you're likely also right, though that makes the latitude scaling bonkers unless if the planet itself is significantly smaller than Earth. Or maybe everything is more south and closer to the equator; even the "arctic" regions of the far north reach balmy temperatures in summer. Maybe I should stop reading so much into the geography of a little girls' show and realize the mod developers had limited room to work with in map design for Equestria.
Going back to the whole regionalism discussion, I tried to map out (pic #5) what I think the major regions of Equestria would be how do you hide units?, trying to follow terrain and existing province borders as much as possible. I could see Equestria having a multi-layered system of federalism, with local, provincial, and regional governments have different amounts of autonomy under a central government. Also except for "The Heartland" and the north-central region (if that should be its own region at all, but you can militia units explicitly from there) the regions would be relatively "new" additions to Equestria composed of new cities, settlements and colonies. Over a thousand years ponies would have slowly (by human civilization standards, but not by Tolkien's) settled progressively more distant regions. Ignore that Ponyville is less than a hundred years old despite being a stone's throw from the capital. Or it could be that those regions were previously settled (definitely in the case of Tenochtitlan) and were gradually annexed under the flag of Equestria.
Also keep in mind that Stalliongrad is not all of Severyana (which is north of the off-white line). A good part of it (going by Stalliongrad's claims and the names of the provinces) still belongs to Equestria. Or maybe it's the case where these provinces are similar but different like how Belarus and Ukraine are related to Russia.
>>132145
I was worried that I wouldn't be able to play HOI4 (I just wanted to get it to run to look at maps) but my computer can run it at 3 or even 4 speed quite well so long as I turn my AC down all the way. A multiplayer game might actually be possible though my internet might prove to be a bottleneck. Do you recommend getting any of the DLCs? La Resistance looks quite with intelligence agencies and vroom vroom.
Now to be narcissistic, let me tell you a bit about my game as Equestria on recruit difficulty. This is the first time I've played HOI4 so I've had to learn everything, in a mod which is deliberately designed to be harder/unpredictable than the base game. I solved the batpony question with Luna and only had to reload after failing once (yes, I cheated and looked on the wiki but I had the right idea). I focused exclusively on enhancing research and building infrastructure/civilian factories in the eastern part of Equestria but by the time war broke out in early 1011 I still had only my original 17 mil factories. Needless to say I had trouble supplying everything except for the most basic equipment until well after the end of the war.
I absolutely thought I was going to lose to the Changelings. They declared war on me when I was only halfway through "The Twilight Project" (I was trying to get good tanks so I had no armored force to speak of) focus so I got Urgent War Committee late. Also I told my entire army group at once to man the entire fallback line and was wondering why all my divisions were moving around and leaving Las Pegasus open. I hadn't built airbases so once I lost the ones near the Changeling border I couldn't get air superiority. A few things saved me: the enemy didn't press the attack south of Las Pegasus which would have made defense impossible, despite having a few thousand planes they couldn't wrest air superiority from my few hundred Hurricanes and Spitfires (maybe not having airbases in the northwest was a 4D chess move), all the militia I called in somehow managed to hold the line while I built a proper army, and I managed to get Wildcats (Medium 1 TDs) to my Onhooves divisions to counter enemy tanks. Also the Crystal Empire after breaking away from me managed to modernize and fought a far more aggressive war than I could, taking more casualties (nearly a million) than me but eventually conquering the enemy hives. Pic #3 is as far as the Changelings managed to get and that line lasted for over a year, and I took that screenshot when I saw the enemy was about to collapse. By the time Stalliongrad joined the Changelings were already on the defensive. Victory was less dramatic than I thought it would be though, and in the peace deal I puppeted the Changelings but the Polar Bears somehow took all their territory, leaving the Changelings as a government-in-exile which capitulates as soon as you call them into a war. At least Olenia got released and I grabbed some border territory.
2/2
While I was rebuilding, the Griffonian Empire under the Archonate decided to declare war on everyone and was close to taking Skyfall. I sent over Pinkie, two 40-width infantry (not motorized or mechanized, but with artillery, TDs and full support companies) and a heavy tank division (with mechanized and SPGs as well) with the result that they absolutely walloped the Griffon Empire. "Ghost Division" was playing in the background as I smashed enemy armor and kept making encirclements. Eventually the Empire collapse but the Kingdom of Wingbardy, taking most of its territory, assumed the title itself.
In 1016 the Karthinian Pact declared war on New Mareland and I promptly sent the better part of my army as an expeditionary force. Unfortunately that doesn't make the AI use forces more intelligently, as it will launch attacks bound to fail rather than wait for the enemy to attack entrenched positions. As a result it has incurred over three million casualties, roughly split between New Mareland and myself (the new Griffonian Empire has taken only half as many). The line is stable but there's not enough supply for the dozens of divisions, and New Mareland didn't build enough airbases to have the capacity for air superiority. I can't land troops I can control because there's "not enough naval intel" and I can't get green seas though I have sunk quite a few battlecruisers. I haven't expanded my fleet or docks at all because there weren't any fun naval engagements with the Changelings. I think the only way I can turn this around is by getting several new fleets. I have researched nuclear bombs but I don't think air superiority is likely. Still, the game is a lot of fun though I have much to learn. I have 5 research slots and +60% research speed but I'm still behind on some research, likely because I'm going down so many trees. Although production shortfalls aren't so bad anymore I'm still producing arguably wasteful things, like 16km/h light tank divisions, medium 3 TDs and superheavy tanks for superheavy "breakthrough" divisions. Funnily enough, I was spending all my civ factories buying all the steel in the world (I was legitimately struggling to find anyone with steel left to export) without realizing that if I changed my economic policy away from free trade, I had hundreds left in surplus. I wanted to invade Stalliongrad but I don't think that's diplomatically possible. Still, nothing I can’t enjoy while munching on blue Stilton with some Sauvignon Blanc.
I think, other than the mess with the Karthinian pact, this game has been how the Changeling Invasion would "canonically" go down. Rather than have Celestia implement LBJ-esque legislation, Luna tests her leadership abilities and manages to accomplish good ends without coercion or turning into Nightmare Moon. The entire policy of Equestria revolves around peaceful development. Changelings overwhelm the brave but ill-equipped defense and quickly conquer a quarter of Equestria. The Sisters implement martial law but do not implement censorship. Volunteer militia as well as a new professional army manage to hold the line practically within sight of Canterlot until new technology, training and tanks break the stalemate. After the war there were calls for democracy (completely scripted, because I had 80% stability WITH the debuff and 100% war support) and though these were defeated there were changes like a diet of nobles. I couldn't ask for a better first game and I'm looking forward to when the Bread League attacks.
I don't know if it has anything to do with the difficulty setting but there seems to be a lot of artificial stupidity. When I assign an army to defend an army cautiously units will still move to "peninsulas" where they can be easily cut off and I have to maintain careful watch to make sure I don't get encircled. On the flip side when I tell an army to advance to an offensive line they just sit there, even when set to be aggressive. Also hotkeys will take me a while to master.
While I was rebuilding, the Griffonian Empire under the Archonate decided to declare war on everyone and was close to taking Skyfall. I sent over Pinkie, two 40-width infantry (not motorized or mechanized, but with artillery, TDs and full support companies) and a heavy tank division (with mechanized and SPGs as well) with the result that they absolutely walloped the Griffon Empire. "Ghost Division" was playing in the background as I smashed enemy armor and kept making encirclements. Eventually the Empire collapse but the Kingdom of Wingbardy, taking most of its territory, assumed the title itself.
In 1016 the Karthinian Pact declared war on New Mareland and I promptly sent the better part of my army as an expeditionary force. Unfortunately that doesn't make the AI use forces more intelligently, as it will launch attacks bound to fail rather than wait for the enemy to attack entrenched positions. As a result it has incurred over three million casualties, roughly split between New Mareland and myself (the new Griffonian Empire has taken only half as many). The line is stable but there's not enough supply for the dozens of divisions, and New Mareland didn't build enough airbases to have the capacity for air superiority. I can't land troops I can control because there's "not enough naval intel" and I can't get green seas though I have sunk quite a few battlecruisers. I haven't expanded my fleet or docks at all because there weren't any fun naval engagements with the Changelings. I think the only way I can turn this around is by getting several new fleets. I have researched nuclear bombs but I don't think air superiority is likely. Still, the game is a lot of fun though I have much to learn. I have 5 research slots and +60% research speed but I'm still behind on some research, likely because I'm going down so many trees. Although production shortfalls aren't so bad anymore I'm still producing arguably wasteful things, like 16km/h light tank divisions, medium 3 TDs and superheavy tanks for superheavy "breakthrough" divisions. Funnily enough, I was spending all my civ factories buying all the steel in the world (I was legitimately struggling to find anyone with steel left to export) without realizing that if I changed my economic policy away from free trade, I had hundreds left in surplus. I wanted to invade Stalliongrad but I don't think that's diplomatically possible. Still, nothing I can’t enjoy while munching on blue Stilton with some Sauvignon Blanc.
I think, other than the mess with the Karthinian pact, this game has been how the Changeling Invasion would "canonically" go down. Rather than have Celestia implement LBJ-esque legislation, Luna tests her leadership abilities and manages to accomplish good ends without coercion or turning into Nightmare Moon. The entire policy of Equestria revolves around peaceful development. Changelings overwhelm the brave but ill-equipped defense and quickly conquer a quarter of Equestria. The Sisters implement martial law but do not implement censorship. Volunteer militia as well as a new professional army manage to hold the line practically within sight of Canterlot until new technology, training and tanks break the stalemate. After the war there were calls for democracy (completely scripted, because I had 80% stability WITH the debuff and 100% war support) and though these were defeated there were changes like a diet of nobles. I couldn't ask for a better first game and I'm looking forward to when the Bread League attacks.
I don't know if it has anything to do with the difficulty setting but there seems to be a lot of artificial stupidity. When I assign an army to defend an army cautiously units will still move to "peninsulas" where they can be easily cut off and I have to maintain careful watch to make sure I don't get encircled. On the flip side when I tell an army to advance to an offensive line they just sit there, even when set to be aggressive. Also hotkeys will take me a while to master.
>>132208
"Hmm...little bit of what I expected, little bit of not. I did not think it would go in this direction when I set out today."
"Hmm...little bit of what I expected, little bit of not. I did not think it would go in this direction when I set out today."
>>132209
>pic 4
Oh, and that's the location Amber Sunset would be from. And yes, I'm available to play today, I just need to catch up with the posts real quick.
>pic 4
Oh, and that's the location Amber Sunset would be from. And yes, I'm available to play today, I just need to catch up with the posts real quick.
>>132206
"They should be, and perhaps they will be, but for now they are useful to me." Brie smiles and glancing sidelong gives Lavren a one-eyed smile.
"They should be, and perhaps they will be, but for now they are useful to me." Brie smiles and glancing sidelong gives Lavren a one-eyed smile.
>>132209
When you use that method of calculation it looks like Equestria really is bigger than North America. As I said before, the Naval map has the seas around Equestria as much smaller than that, and I am less sure but I think the air map does too. That does not mean the maps are consistent with each other.
I'm still going for a portrayal of Equestria as steadily centralizing its power as time progresses. If you look to the river coalition, the various nations there remained completely separated, and only recently formed a decent coalition. In the griffin lands, there was an attempt to unify all of griffindom, but it fell apart after ~250 years. According to leaks, Saddle Arabia will have a similar story of trying to reclaim a lost empire. So I am going with Equestria having a similar attempt, but actually succeeding (except for Severyana and a few other places) because of Alicorn immortality/longevity. Of course by the time of the setting of the campaign, East Equestria has been completely divided into separate autonomies or even separate protectorate countries.
>>132210
I've played three different games as New Mareland since the Husky update. I could relate some of what happened here if desired.
>>132212
Yes. Please do read the posts that have happened since, as I like some of the ones I have written.
The last post for Amber Sunset was >>132043
>>132211
He tilts his head
"How did you expect it would go?"
>>132213
"Well, unless you have more questions, you may proceed. You may use my Stork. It will take you to the Whinnyapolis airport. A larger plane will be waiting for you there."
When you use that method of calculation it looks like Equestria really is bigger than North America. As I said before, the Naval map has the seas around Equestria as much smaller than that, and I am less sure but I think the air map does too. That does not mean the maps are consistent with each other.
I'm still going for a portrayal of Equestria as steadily centralizing its power as time progresses. If you look to the river coalition, the various nations there remained completely separated, and only recently formed a decent coalition. In the griffin lands, there was an attempt to unify all of griffindom, but it fell apart after ~250 years. According to leaks, Saddle Arabia will have a similar story of trying to reclaim a lost empire. So I am going with Equestria having a similar attempt, but actually succeeding (except for Severyana and a few other places) because of Alicorn immortality/longevity. Of course by the time of the setting of the campaign, East Equestria has been completely divided into separate autonomies or even separate protectorate countries.
>>132210
I've played three different games as New Mareland since the Husky update. I could relate some of what happened here if desired.
>>132212
Yes. Please do read the posts that have happened since, as I like some of the ones I have written.
The last post for Amber Sunset was >>132043
>>132211
He tilts his head
"How did you expect it would go?"
>>132213
"Well, unless you have more questions, you may proceed. You may use my Stork. It will take you to the Whinnyapolis airport. A larger plane will be waiting for you there."
>>132213
"Don't worry, Im sure we'll have time to exponentiate as we travel." He winks finally to Lavren.
"It is good that her majesty is pleased then." Brie says formally. "Any last favors or objectives I should be aware of?" He says slyly, his eyes almost squinting, a shit-eating grin on his face, one fang peeking out.
"Don't worry, Im sure we'll have time to exponentiate as we travel." He winks finally to Lavren.
"It is good that her majesty is pleased then." Brie says formally. "Any last favors or objectives I should be aware of?" He says slyly, his eyes almost squinting, a shit-eating grin on his face, one fang peeking out.
>>132214
"We would take him in for reward, but seeing him after we pulled him out made me decide otherwise."
"We would take him in for reward, but seeing him after we pulled him out made me decide otherwise."
>>132215
She answers:
"The objective is to ensure Changelingia is safe from ponies who would raid our lands and capture our nymphs. Any expansion to that objective will occur after the situation on the ground in Baltimare has been assessed and reevaluated. Good luck. You'll have more time to talk on the planes."
Lavren stares at Brie, saying nothing. The whole set of changelings is packed into a pair of small monoplanes - Lavren, Seb, Fun, Wesley, Kerr, the Queen, and the very sharply dressed military officer drone who accompanied her here. Brie may speak to to the above while in the planes, prior to boarding, or in the Tarmac at Whinnysota. It's a long ride to Baltimare.
>>132217
"Why is that?" Mala asks
She answers:
"The objective is to ensure Changelingia is safe from ponies who would raid our lands and capture our nymphs. Any expansion to that objective will occur after the situation on the ground in Baltimare has been assessed and reevaluated. Good luck. You'll have more time to talk on the planes."
Lavren stares at Brie, saying nothing. The whole set of changelings is packed into a pair of small monoplanes - Lavren, Seb, Fun, Wesley, Kerr, the Queen, and the very sharply dressed military officer drone who accompanied her here. Brie may speak to to the above while in the planes, prior to boarding, or in the Tarmac at Whinnysota. It's a long ride to Baltimare.
>>132217
"Why is that?" Mala asks
>>132219
Curses, I don't have the energy to try and seduce the queen right now ;_;
Can we
- \ \ | I To Be Continued at the boarding of the plane?
Curses, I don't have the energy to try and seduce the queen right now ;_;
Can we
- \ \ | I To Be Continued at the boarding of the plane?
>>132043
Amber drinks in her surroundings. "It's like a rainbow in its own way," she murmurs. "Quite a few generations of the same family have read together in this room, I reckon…"
Amber carefully walks on the carpet, as if afraid to break anything, and takes a look over the different titles on the shelves.
The StuG III is the most underrated German AFV. This is coming out of left-field, but that was my thinking when I was mass-producing medium tank destroyers, and it worked.
Amber drinks in her surroundings. "It's like a rainbow in its own way," she murmurs. "Quite a few generations of the same family have read together in this room, I reckon…"
Amber carefully walks on the carpet, as if afraid to break anything, and takes a look over the different titles on the shelves.
The StuG III is the most underrated German AFV. This is coming out of left-field, but that was my thinking when I was mass-producing medium tank destroyers, and it worked.
>>132224
"I do not know," Mala looks away, and out the window
"I am afraid of him still. I kind of feel like he should be shot, if there is anyone who should be. But I also know that all the same reasons would apply to me, and I want to be free."
>>132225
The Canterlot Tales, Maregyar Folklore, On Music and the Harmony of the Spheres, Ars Magna et Ultima, Selected Works by Alfred Hinnyson, Blackwater. Among so many others
She answers
"Oh yes. Several owners here have collected books over the years. Some are rare, first editions, And some were read to there foals at night."
Some of the books are significantly older than the house, and some are much newer
"I do not know," Mala looks away, and out the window
"I am afraid of him still. I kind of feel like he should be shot, if there is anyone who should be. But I also know that all the same reasons would apply to me, and I want to be free."
>>132225
The Canterlot Tales, Maregyar Folklore, On Music and the Harmony of the Spheres, Ars Magna et Ultima, Selected Works by Alfred Hinnyson, Blackwater. Among so many others
She answers
"Oh yes. Several owners here have collected books over the years. Some are rare, first editions, And some were read to there foals at night."
Some of the books are significantly older than the house, and some are much newer
>>132226
Amber sucks in a breath, then peers over at her guide. "These books could have a museum all of their own! Some of these I've wanted to read for a while. Do you read books here?"
Amber sucks in a breath, then peers over at her guide. "These books could have a museum all of their own! Some of these I've wanted to read for a while. Do you read books here?"
>>132226
Silver nods to Mala.
"Indeed, it is moral conundrum. Perhaps there was no 'good and evil' to choose between, but rather between compassion and ruthlessness."
He pats Mala on top of his head.
"Between those two, I would rather be compassionate."
Silver nods to Mala.
"Indeed, it is moral conundrum. Perhaps there was no 'good and evil' to choose between, but rather between compassion and ruthlessness."
He pats Mala on top of his head.
"Between those two, I would rather be compassionate."
>>132227
She answers,
"Well... I don't read them myself... But there are tables here for reading, yes."
She answers,
"Well... I don't read them myself... But there are tables here for reading, yes."
>>132228
"Maybe..." Mala has an uncertain and unsatisfied expression. He closes his eyes and smiles, however, when silver pats him. His diamond ears part over to the side, making room for the hoof.
The taxi arrives at a tan colored building with narrow windows perhaps five or so stories tall near the center of the city.
"Maybe..." Mala has an uncertain and unsatisfied expression. He closes his eyes and smiles, however, when silver pats him. His diamond ears part over to the side, making room for the hoof.
The taxi arrives at a tan colored building with narrow windows perhaps five or so stories tall near the center of the city.
>>132230
The pair get out and pay the driver for the trip. Silver looks up at the tall structure and whistles before going inside.
The pair get out and pay the driver for the trip. Silver looks up at the tall structure and whistles before going inside.
>>132231
"Well... we try to keep most of the books preserved. But maybe some of them, you can touch.
>>132232
The building isn't the tallest in the area, but it's much larger than most of the buildings in Baltimare. Going inside through the front door, there is an off-white colored mare waiting at the reception desk. Mala seems unsure as to whether he should or should not enter.
"Well... we try to keep most of the books preserved. But maybe some of them, you can touch.
>>132232
The building isn't the tallest in the area, but it's much larger than most of the buildings in Baltimare. Going inside through the front door, there is an off-white colored mare waiting at the reception desk. Mala seems unsure as to whether he should or should not enter.
>>132233
Silver smiles at the receptionist, before looking back at Mala and motioning with a hoof for him to follow.
Silver smiles at the receptionist, before looking back at Mala and motioning with a hoof for him to follow.
>>132233
"I'm surprised they aren't behind glass like in Canterlot. Which books are safe to touch? Though it's probably rude of me to ask, because I haven't seen the rest of the house yet."
"I'm surprised they aren't behind glass like in Canterlot. Which books are safe to touch? Though it's probably rude of me to ask, because I haven't seen the rest of the house yet."
>>132236
"It is okay, Mala. Do not worry."
He trots up to the receptionist desk.
"Excuse me, I am Silver Sword. Is this where I can pick up reward for illegals captured during raid on 33 Hoebuck?"
"It is okay, Mala. Do not worry."
He trots up to the receptionist desk.
"Excuse me, I am Silver Sword. Is this where I can pick up reward for illegals captured during raid on 33 Hoebuck?"
>>132239
Her eyes become very wide
“Uh.... I think you are looking for R&M. Third floor, you can take the stairs or the elevator, down the hall and to the left.”
Her eyes become very wide
“Uh.... I think you are looking for R&M. Third floor, you can take the stairs or the elevator, down the hall and to the left.”
>>132240
He smiles and nods to her, seemingly unaware of the nature behind her reaction.
"Ah, thank you very much!"
He heads for the elevator, but not immediately getting inside. Instead Silver stands in front of it looking unsure and excited at the same time.
"I do not believe I have been in elevator before, if memory serves."
He smiles and nods to her, seemingly unaware of the nature behind her reaction.
"Ah, thank you very much!"
He heads for the elevator, but not immediately getting inside. Instead Silver stands in front of it looking unsure and excited at the same time.
"I do not believe I have been in elevator before, if memory serves."
>>132241
Silver walks down the hall to find a more open area with marble floors, a pinkish colored wall, and a metal door just a little too dull in color to be stainless steel. This must be the fabled elevator, with a black button to the right of the metal door frame. Mala follows, and says nothing, looking curiously at the metal door.
>>132242
"Oh, some of these are likely as old as Equestria, and many are over five hundred years. But those are on the higher shelves, out of the way. The lower levels have books stocked here from the beginning of the ninth century by Frequent Wind."
Silver walks down the hall to find a more open area with marble floors, a pinkish colored wall, and a metal door just a little too dull in color to be stainless steel. This must be the fabled elevator, with a black button to the right of the metal door frame. Mala follows, and says nothing, looking curiously at the metal door.
>>132242
"Oh, some of these are likely as old as Equestria, and many are over five hundred years. But those are on the higher shelves, out of the way. The lower levels have books stocked here from the beginning of the ninth century by Frequent Wind."
>>132243
"That is incredible. I can't imagine such history imbued in this place, where even the youngest books are a century old."
"That is incredible. I can't imagine such history imbued in this place, where even the youngest books are a century old."
>>132244
>>132243
Wait. No. Recalculating.
At the end of the open area is an open door with a brass door frame over head. Looking inside is a carpet floor, hardwood walls, but most importantly a brown colt sitting next to a lever, looking over at the two creatures.
>>132245
"There have been some new additions since then. The current owner wants to keep pace with advances in science and the newest literature. The biggest contributions were simply at the begging of the last century, but we have Hummingway and Joy, as well as Jazz Age and Stagbuck."
>>132243
Wait. No. Recalculating.
At the end of the open area is an open door with a brass door frame over head. Looking inside is a carpet floor, hardwood walls, but most importantly a brown colt sitting next to a lever, looking over at the two creatures.
>>132245
"There have been some new additions since then. The current owner wants to keep pace with advances in science and the newest literature. The biggest contributions were simply at the begging of the last century, but we have Hummingway and Joy, as well as Jazz Age and Stagbuck."
>>132249
Silver steps in, and Mala joins cautiously afterwards
"Sure can" the colt answers
Entering the small room, he presses a button that closes first the brass door on the first floor, and then a folding grille metal sliding door closes from the inside, securing the car but making it possible to see out of the car at the door. With his hoof, the pegasus colt presses the lever forward, and the elevator moves upward with the sound of an electric traction motor. Mala is startled by the movement, and moves his legs out wider to remain stable. The elevator moves up and lets the creatures see the door pass below them, then the wall between floors, then the door of the second floor, and finally to the door on the third floor, which opens to the left, and is followed by the metal grille door opening.
"Third floor"
Silver steps in, and Mala joins cautiously afterwards
"Sure can" the colt answers
Entering the small room, he presses a button that closes first the brass door on the first floor, and then a folding grille metal sliding door closes from the inside, securing the car but making it possible to see out of the car at the door. With his hoof, the pegasus colt presses the lever forward, and the elevator moves upward with the sound of an electric traction motor. Mala is startled by the movement, and moves his legs out wider to remain stable. The elevator moves up and lets the creatures see the door pass below them, then the wall between floors, then the door of the second floor, and finally to the door on the third floor, which opens to the left, and is followed by the metal grille door opening.
"Third floor"
>>132251
"Well, it hasn't been lived in over the past decade. At least, it hasn't been the primary residence. The current owners have another house further inland they use. They will sometimes stay here on some weekends, but they've opened this house up for historical viewing. That is why it is open like this."
"Well, it hasn't been lived in over the past decade. At least, it hasn't been the primary residence. The current owners have another house further inland they use. They will sometimes stay here on some weekends, but they've opened this house up for historical viewing. That is why it is open like this."
Okay, I has to sleep now. I hope I'll see you tomorrow, poners
>>132256
“Thank you!” He says. To the left is a longer hallway, but to the right is another area, looks like a waiting room, with the words “Revenue and Migration Service” on the wall. There’s a white unicorn mare at the reception area, who is typing on a type writer
“Thank you!” He says. To the left is a longer hallway, but to the right is another area, looks like a waiting room, with the words “Revenue and Migration Service” on the wall. There’s a white unicorn mare at the reception area, who is typing on a type writer
>>132257
He trots up to the receptionist.
"Hello there. I am Silver Sword, and this is my partner Mala. We were part of group that cleared 33 Hoebuck and captured group of illegals there, and were wondering if this is where we can pick up reward."
He trots up to the receptionist.
"Hello there. I am Silver Sword, and this is my partner Mala. We were part of group that cleared 33 Hoebuck and captured group of illegals there, and were wondering if this is where we can pick up reward."
>>132258
She looks up and smiles
"Oy, your with that? Parade Pass is handling that. He just came back in the office. Let me fetch him."
She turns around and yells
"Hey! Parade Pass! Somepony is here for you!"
She looks back to Silver, then stands up and walks back into the hall. It's a solid minute, but the familiar yellow pegasus in a green uniform walks out. He looks to Silver and smiles, saying to SIlver
"Well fuck me, it's you again! What'chu comin' ova here for?"
The white mare answers for Parade Pass
"He said something about a 'reward.'"
He responds
"Oh a, a reward. Well, let me see here. Come to my office"
She looks up and smiles
"Oy, your with that? Parade Pass is handling that. He just came back in the office. Let me fetch him."
She turns around and yells
"Hey! Parade Pass! Somepony is here for you!"
She looks back to Silver, then stands up and walks back into the hall. It's a solid minute, but the familiar yellow pegasus in a green uniform walks out. He looks to Silver and smiles, saying to SIlver
"Well fuck me, it's you again! What'chu comin' ova here for?"
The white mare answers for Parade Pass
"He said something about a 'reward.'"
He responds
"Oh a, a reward. Well, let me see here. Come to my office"
>>132260
He walks down a white hallway, and then opens an unremarkable wooden door. This leads into a small halllway that splits off to the left, and goes past a door and a few interior windows on what seem to be offices or conference rooms, and then enters into a larger area with a few cubicles, a couple of which have ponies in them at typewriters. At least one of the ponies is missing a leg. He keeps his pace before reaching a wall lined with offices. He finds one that he opens the door on
"Aight, you can come on in"
He opens the narrow door into the office. On top of one shelf is a single framed picture of what looks to be Parade Pass and a mare in a dress. This is the lone element of personalization in an office that has no creature comforts or other efforts at personalization. Indeed, with cardboard boxes on the ground and papers haphazardly strewn across the desk, it looks more like a storage room than an office worker's office
Parade Pass sits down at the desk and starts flipping threw pages
"Let me just... There was an official tally here somewhere. I think it was 30 captured non-citizens? Let me.."
He looks through the papers. There is one chair before the desk
He walks down a white hallway, and then opens an unremarkable wooden door. This leads into a small halllway that splits off to the left, and goes past a door and a few interior windows on what seem to be offices or conference rooms, and then enters into a larger area with a few cubicles, a couple of which have ponies in them at typewriters. At least one of the ponies is missing a leg. He keeps his pace before reaching a wall lined with offices. He finds one that he opens the door on
"Aight, you can come on in"
He opens the narrow door into the office. On top of one shelf is a single framed picture of what looks to be Parade Pass and a mare in a dress. This is the lone element of personalization in an office that has no creature comforts or other efforts at personalization. Indeed, with cardboard boxes on the ground and papers haphazardly strewn across the desk, it looks more like a storage room than an office worker's office
Parade Pass sits down at the desk and starts flipping threw pages
"Let me just... There was an official tally here somewhere. I think it was 30 captured non-citizens? Let me.."
He looks through the papers. There is one chair before the desk
>>132262
Mala sits down next to Silver. Parade Pass looks over at Mala, as if not certain why he is there, and then goes back to looking at the papers
"So uh... it says here the reward is 150 bits for each alien turned in. There's 30 turned in total, so that's uh.... 4500 bits for ya."
Mala sits down next to Silver. Parade Pass looks over at Mala, as if not certain why he is there, and then goes back to looking at the papers
"So uh... it says here the reward is 150 bits for each alien turned in. There's 30 turned in total, so that's uh.... 4500 bits for ya."
>>132264
"Well uh, this is for the lot of ya. You're gonna have to share it. We're not holding the pot for ya. But you really left a mess in there. Burning, stabbed, a zebra torn open. There was a stag and a stallion who had to have surgery. There were cut open or somethin'. I never seen anything like it."
"Well uh, this is for the lot of ya. You're gonna have to share it. We're not holding the pot for ya. But you really left a mess in there. Burning, stabbed, a zebra torn open. There was a stag and a stallion who had to have surgery. There were cut open or somethin'. I never seen anything like it."
>>132265
"Yes, they were making sacrifices. It was...not pretty. Still, even split between members of party, that is still significant amount."
"Yes, they were making sacrifices. It was...not pretty. Still, even split between members of party, that is still significant amount."
>>132266
"Aight, well that's fucked. Good thing they're taken out. We'd love to have the smugglers who were working the business, or their ship captains."
"Aight, well that's fucked. Good thing they're taken out. We'd love to have the smugglers who were working the business, or their ship captains."
>>132267
"We would have too, for extra reward if nothing else. Ah well, what we got is still impressive. I believe there five core members of our group? Myself, Mala, Iron, Dark Star, and Midnight. I do not know if I am forgetting anyone else..."
"We would have too, for extra reward if nothing else. Ah well, what we got is still impressive. I believe there five core members of our group? Myself, Mala, Iron, Dark Star, and Midnight. I do not know if I am forgetting anyone else..."
>>132268
"Heh. I don't know. You'll have to figure that out amongst yourselves. I'm not sure how long you've stopped the traffickers. They have a way of coming back, if you don't sever the head."
"Heh. I don't know. You'll have to figure that out amongst yourselves. I'm not sure how long you've stopped the traffickers. They have a way of coming back, if you don't sever the head."
>>132269
"Ah, that I know. Perhaps there is more to this trafficking operation in Manehattan, since I remember in dossier that Manehattan was primary stop for this group. Either way, I will make sure others get their rewards fairly."
"Ah, that I know. Perhaps there is more to this trafficking operation in Manehattan, since I remember in dossier that Manehattan was primary stop for this group. Either way, I will make sure others get their rewards fairly."
>>132270
"Oh Manehattan is doing their own thing. There's far more R&M officers there, we just sort of guarding the flanks. Also uh, I think you might have pissed off some of the locals by killing that rich landowner. He was someone important to them."
"Oh Manehattan is doing their own thing. There's far more R&M officers there, we just sort of guarding the flanks. Also uh, I think you might have pissed off some of the locals by killing that rich landowner. He was someone important to them."
>>132271
"Oh, thank you for heads up. I suppose most of angry ones would not believe he was head cultist?"
"Oh, thank you for heads up. I suppose most of angry ones would not believe he was head cultist?"
>>132272
He blinks
"Even now I barely believe it, and I was there, sort of.
Then he adds:
"You didn't come across any of the head traffickers, the shipping lines they used, or their documents by any chance, did you?"
He blinks
"Even now I barely believe it, and I was there, sort of.
Then he adds:
"You didn't come across any of the head traffickers, the shipping lines they used, or their documents by any chance, did you?"
>>132273
"Hmm...I did pick up some documents from safe that was in Maakie's own office, as well as some blackmail photographs."
He pulls said documents and the photographs out and offers them to Parade Pass.
"Hmm...I did pick up some documents from safe that was in Maakie's own office, as well as some blackmail photographs."
He pulls said documents and the photographs out and offers them to Parade Pass.
>>132274
He looks at the photos
"Oh look. Ponies fucking. And some others shaking hooves... I don't know who these ponies are, but I know the locals know."
Then he looks at some of the other documents
"Oy! Contracts. Now this is something the analysts can make use of, I think"
He looks at the photos
"Oh look. Ponies fucking. And some others shaking hooves... I don't know who these ponies are, but I know the locals know."
Then he looks at some of the other documents
"Oy! Contracts. Now this is something the analysts can make use of, I think"
>>132275
"Other than photos and documents, all we found was name of steam ship they were using as transport. I think I have it written down here somewhere...ah, here!"
He gives over a piece of paper they used to mark down the name of the steam ship.
"Other than photos and documents, all we found was name of steam ship they were using as transport. I think I have it written down here somewhere...ah, here!"
He gives over a piece of paper they used to mark down the name of the steam ship.
>>132277
"Well, a few of the upper bedrooms are closed because they are used, sometimes, and of course a few of the spaces used for the remodeling are closed. But yes, the house is open to the public most days."
"Well, a few of the upper bedrooms are closed because they are used, sometimes, and of course a few of the spaces used for the remodeling are closed. But yes, the house is open to the public most days."
hopes to play again
Is there an official Equestria at War thread? If not I'll give a small update here. It just turned to the year 1021 and a stalemate still exists, albeit we pushed the enemy back into their own territory minus some occupied islands I plan to retake. The actual problem we had was not the number of troops but rather the poor supply of New Mareland; however the AI's been actually competent and been building infrastructure and buildings that help so the situation is better. Total losses are 8 million on our side compared with 4 million on theirs.
I hadn't noticed a naval invasion in my northeast and the new Griffonian Empire managed to take a stretch of territory from Manehattan to Albion. Fortunately I saw it in time and my tanks mopped up that whole army really well. Otherwise I'm mostly a participant in the naval and air game. Thanks to better airports we can now put up a good fight and the airspace over the entire New Mareland theater is contested but slightly in our favor. The enemy took that northeast island off my coast and stuck a bunch of planes there, but that makes it easy for me to train my wings up to veteran. I've also learned how to actually patrol water zones so we're in decent shape there. However, I was messing with task force composition and I've run into a serious issue where even though I explicitly merge task forces, and there's space in the task force for that ship, it will immediately split off and reenter the reserve fleet. As a result neither of my carriers will join my main strike force and can only patrol virtually alone, and because this has happened to my destroyers as well I have a shortage of screens and patrol forces.
The enemy has been edging ahead of me in terms of planes and has a lot of jet fighter Is, so I decided to leapfrog and go for jet fighter IIs while using my ample air experience to make the ultimate propeller fighters in the meantime. On the ground side I disbanded my heavy tanks and replaced my mediums with modern tanks. There are some teething issues, though: my production had been barely keeping up in terms of both planes and tanks, and because of this drastic switch I'm quickly running out of actually good fighters while I wait for jet wings, and my 13 modern tanks per week probably won't ever cover the 4.4k shortfall I have in my divisions (and that's AFTER I disbanded my non-frontline tank divisions). Funnily enough though I stopped production I still have a surplus of a couple hundred super-heavy tanks. I'm building more factories but I'm reaching the point where, even with limited exports, I can't get enough steel. The entire world is likely to be running out of steel as I've resorted to squeezing out a few more units from trade partners.
It's pretty funny how this war has ended up in a perpetual stalemate unlikely to end until the end of the game itself, whenever that is. Wartime conditions have become the new normal for the ponies of Equestria (for context, Flurry Heart became the ruler of the Crystal Empire). One operation I plan to employ once I get more jet fighters is to nuke Talouse and use my pegasi divisions to capitulate them, then using this on Wingbardy. I was considering getting missiles but I've read they're fairly useless for strategic bombing and jet bombers are far better. I'm betting that the Dread League going on the warpath will break the stalemate, as they border the Griffonian Empire.
I hadn't noticed a naval invasion in my northeast and the new Griffonian Empire managed to take a stretch of territory from Manehattan to Albion. Fortunately I saw it in time and my tanks mopped up that whole army really well. Otherwise I'm mostly a participant in the naval and air game. Thanks to better airports we can now put up a good fight and the airspace over the entire New Mareland theater is contested but slightly in our favor. The enemy took that northeast island off my coast and stuck a bunch of planes there, but that makes it easy for me to train my wings up to veteran. I've also learned how to actually patrol water zones so we're in decent shape there. However, I was messing with task force composition and I've run into a serious issue where even though I explicitly merge task forces, and there's space in the task force for that ship, it will immediately split off and reenter the reserve fleet. As a result neither of my carriers will join my main strike force and can only patrol virtually alone, and because this has happened to my destroyers as well I have a shortage of screens and patrol forces.
The enemy has been edging ahead of me in terms of planes and has a lot of jet fighter Is, so I decided to leapfrog and go for jet fighter IIs while using my ample air experience to make the ultimate propeller fighters in the meantime. On the ground side I disbanded my heavy tanks and replaced my mediums with modern tanks. There are some teething issues, though: my production had been barely keeping up in terms of both planes and tanks, and because of this drastic switch I'm quickly running out of actually good fighters while I wait for jet wings, and my 13 modern tanks per week probably won't ever cover the 4.4k shortfall I have in my divisions (and that's AFTER I disbanded my non-frontline tank divisions). Funnily enough though I stopped production I still have a surplus of a couple hundred super-heavy tanks. I'm building more factories but I'm reaching the point where, even with limited exports, I can't get enough steel. The entire world is likely to be running out of steel as I've resorted to squeezing out a few more units from trade partners.
It's pretty funny how this war has ended up in a perpetual stalemate unlikely to end until the end of the game itself, whenever that is. Wartime conditions have become the new normal for the ponies of Equestria (for context, Flurry Heart became the ruler of the Crystal Empire). One operation I plan to employ once I get more jet fighters is to nuke Talouse and use my pegasi divisions to capitulate them, then using this on Wingbardy. I was considering getting missiles but I've read they're fairly useless for strategic bombing and jet bombers are far better. I'm betting that the Dread League going on the warpath will break the stalemate, as they border the Griffonian Empire.
>>132283
This game is just to see how things turn out, what the cut-off point is, and to play around with features. I'm glad the colonial war happened because otherwise as Equestria I would probably be just sitting around on speed 5. Although the mod has late events it's clear at least some countries aren't intended to be played for so long, because I've been on continuous focuses for five years and don't have anything to spend political power on. Also Hearts of Iron 4 is notorious for getting laggy in the late-game due to so many divisions.
This game is just to see how things turn out, what the cut-off point is, and to play around with features. I'm glad the colonial war happened because otherwise as Equestria I would probably be just sitting around on speed 5. Although the mod has late events it's clear at least some countries aren't intended to be played for so long, because I've been on continuous focuses for five years and don't have anything to spend political power on. Also Hearts of Iron 4 is notorious for getting laggy in the late-game due to so many divisions.
Rolls around in the lush grass looking extremely snuggable and cuddly.
Does anypony think they can play today or this weekend?
>>132286
Fantasy Play has a Manticore exhibit to break into
>>132276
He looks at it
“Now this’ll help at least a little bit. Always report ships, captains, and shipping lines that have been hauling contraband and aliens.”
>>132292
The last reply to Amber was >>132278
>>132291
It’s basically Brie’s initiative. I have a cinematic for everything on the trip back to Baltimare unless Brie wants to do something
Fantasy Play has a Manticore exhibit to break into
>>132276
He looks at it
“Now this’ll help at least a little bit. Always report ships, captains, and shipping lines that have been hauling contraband and aliens.”
>>132292
The last reply to Amber was >>132278
>>132291
It’s basically Brie’s initiative. I have a cinematic for everything on the trip back to Baltimare unless Brie wants to do something
>>132278
"Well, there's only so much daylight in a day and I did promise myself I would explore as much as possible." She quickly clarifies, "This is my first day in Baltimare and its history is truly impressive. Do you mind showing me the rest of the house, please?"
"Well, there's only so much daylight in a day and I did promise myself I would explore as much as possible." She quickly clarifies, "This is my first day in Baltimare and its history is truly impressive. Do you mind showing me the rest of the house, please?"
>>132297
He leaves for several minutes. But when he walks back, he tosses a roll of bank notes on the desk
“Well today’s ya lucky day. Analyst says these are traceable contracts. They’re willin’ to add anotha fifteen hundred to to the pot. Er’ ya go. Six thousand. That’s a lot of money I tell ya.”
He leaves for several minutes. But when he walks back, he tosses a roll of bank notes on the desk
“Well today’s ya lucky day. Analyst says these are traceable contracts. They’re willin’ to add anotha fifteen hundred to to the pot. Er’ ya go. Six thousand. That’s a lot of money I tell ya.”
>>132299
Silver's eyes go just a bit wider at the mention of the amount.
"Very nice, very nice!"
He takes the roll of money, stands up, and offers Parade Pass a hoofshake.
"It has been pleasure."
Silver's eyes go just a bit wider at the mention of the amount.
"Very nice, very nice!"
He takes the roll of money, stands up, and offers Parade Pass a hoofshake.
"It has been pleasure."
>>132300
“Aye, well it’s been a weird as shit time for me uh... it’s been a pleasure”
He shakes Silver’s hoof. His shake is looser, but he moves his hoof up and down faster than normal, and wears iron horseshoes nailed-in. He has a smile on his face
“Aye, well it’s been a weird as shit time for me uh... it’s been a pleasure”
He shakes Silver’s hoof. His shake is looser, but he moves his hoof up and down faster than normal, and wears iron horseshoes nailed-in. He has a smile on his face
>>132301
Silver smiles back and releases the hoofshake.
"Heh, I cannot blame you. Is not everyday you put down sacrificial cult. Ah well. Have good day, Parade. Perhaps we will meet for more business in future."
Silver smiles back and releases the hoofshake.
"Heh, I cannot blame you. Is not everyday you put down sacrificial cult. Ah well. Have good day, Parade. Perhaps we will meet for more business in future."
>>132302
“Well hell I’d take you out for a beer. That’s some impressive shut back there. As for business you’re a bit messy but you captured more aliens than a full sized raiding party in a night.”
“Well hell I’d take you out for a beer. That’s some impressive shut back there. As for business you’re a bit messy but you captured more aliens than a full sized raiding party in a night.”
>>132303
"It was more messy than I would have liked, too. I am just glad we got through it all without loosing anyone. Maybe I will take you up on that beer sometime, though. Goodbye, Parade."
"It was more messy than I would have liked, too. I am just glad we got through it all without loosing anyone. Maybe I will take you up on that beer sometime, though. Goodbye, Parade."
>>132305
Silver gives Parade a sheepish smile before gathering those up as well. He then turns back, goes down the elevator (giving the colt another 5 Bits for operating it), and then back outside.
Silver gives Parade a sheepish smile before gathering those up as well. He then turns back, goes down the elevator (giving the colt another 5 Bits for operating it), and then back outside.
>>132307
A large amount that just might get larger. Silver pulls out his map of Baltimare and locates Sicamore Street. He then calls a taxi for him and Mala and gives the driver the street they're going to.
A large amount that just might get larger. Silver pulls out his map of Baltimare and locates Sicamore Street. He then calls a taxi for him and Mala and gives the driver the street they're going to.
>>132309
Aw, thanks!
By the by, although not relevant to Baltimare specifically this stream goes over towns built by industrialists in this sort of setting and may be good for worldbuilding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyMybF3kILc
Aw, thanks!
By the by, although not relevant to Baltimare specifically this stream goes over towns built by industrialists in this sort of setting and may be good for worldbuilding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyMybF3kILc
>>132316
is a cute pony
>>132308
A taxi comes, and takes them that way. The taxi takes them through the city center, through the central plaza, down south through south town, then further east. The trip begins with skyscrapers lining the streets, then apartment blocks with shops at the bottom, then lines of department stores and restaurants, then apartment buildings and schools, then lines of older row houses. More modern constructions are replaced with a style of an older Equestria, with two story building cramped together with high roofs and occasional jettying. Then the street lines up against the river. The river is a hundred feet wide at the very least, and to either side is a hundred feet of grass, and a concrete wall of twelve feet or more. To one side the river opens up, with land lining either side before eventually seeing the bay. To the other, the river snakes through deeper through the city. A trestle bridge crosses it, and so too does the taxi, going over to a side with more spaces between houses and commercial buildings. Crossing over, there are more single family homes, but several factories, mills, and tanneries as well. It's after crossing down one of the main avenues, then off to a side street, that eventually the group comes to Sicamore street.
Sicamore street is a small street in a semi-rural area east of the main city, evidently in the southern part of Horseshoe bay. On every side of the road is forest of deciduous trees, bare-limbed in January. Singe family homes - single floored and often old - frequently break up the forest. Towards the end is a single home to the right with a fence around it, and the end of the paved road, with gravel road proceeding a little further into the brush and forest.
>>132294
"Why, yes. I guess I can show you the State room or the dining hall"
is a cute pony
>>132308
A taxi comes, and takes them that way. The taxi takes them through the city center, through the central plaza, down south through south town, then further east. The trip begins with skyscrapers lining the streets, then apartment blocks with shops at the bottom, then lines of department stores and restaurants, then apartment buildings and schools, then lines of older row houses. More modern constructions are replaced with a style of an older Equestria, with two story building cramped together with high roofs and occasional jettying. Then the street lines up against the river. The river is a hundred feet wide at the very least, and to either side is a hundred feet of grass, and a concrete wall of twelve feet or more. To one side the river opens up, with land lining either side before eventually seeing the bay. To the other, the river snakes through deeper through the city. A trestle bridge crosses it, and so too does the taxi, going over to a side with more spaces between houses and commercial buildings. Crossing over, there are more single family homes, but several factories, mills, and tanneries as well. It's after crossing down one of the main avenues, then off to a side street, that eventually the group comes to Sicamore street.
Sicamore street is a small street in a semi-rural area east of the main city, evidently in the southern part of Horseshoe bay. On every side of the road is forest of deciduous trees, bare-limbed in January. Singe family homes - single floored and often old - frequently break up the forest. Towards the end is a single home to the right with a fence around it, and the end of the paved road, with gravel road proceeding a little further into the brush and forest.
>>132294
"Why, yes. I guess I can show you the State room or the dining hall"
>>132319
Silver pays the driver, and gets out with Mala. He looks at his map to get a sense of direction.
"Alright, he said to trot 300 meters east, so...that direction."
Silver heads in the direction Maakie indicated.
Silver pays the driver, and gets out with Mala. He looks at his map to get a sense of direction.
"Alright, he said to trot 300 meters east, so...that direction."
Silver heads in the direction Maakie indicated.
>>132320
The map only gives so much help, as it lacks a bit of detail in the wilder areas south of the city. What Silver can guess from the map is that there is a small mangrove swamp that connects to the bay just beyond the end of the street, with a stream or small river feeding it.
The dirt road continues some feet, before being over taken by tall grass, brush, and willow trees
The map only gives so much help, as it lacks a bit of detail in the wilder areas south of the city. What Silver can guess from the map is that there is a small mangrove swamp that connects to the bay just beyond the end of the street, with a stream or small river feeding it.
The dirt road continues some feet, before being over taken by tall grass, brush, and willow trees
>>132321
Silver hopes he's keeping track of distance as he trots. It's potentially easy to get lost in this terrain.
Silver hopes he's keeping track of distance as he trots. It's potentially easy to get lost in this terrain.
>>132327
Silver trots forward, and swiftly he is surrounded on all sides by trees, brush, and grass. The bare-limbed deciduous trees give way to more subtropical broad leafed trees and willows. The trees sway in the breeze, and birds chirp alongside the sounds of various insects. The dirt road is enveloped by the grass, and no sign of any road, house, nor other artificial structure is visible. Only a few empty soda cans, bleached in the sun, provide any sign of civilized life. But Silver does not make the full 300 meters before he meets the water. The water is stained-black water in some areas, and diluted seawater in others, with the two merging. Trees pop out of the water, forming a swamp. In some areas dense balls of roots stick out of the water, while in others there are small islands of clay and dirt.
Silver trots forward, and swiftly he is surrounded on all sides by trees, brush, and grass. The bare-limbed deciduous trees give way to more subtropical broad leafed trees and willows. The trees sway in the breeze, and birds chirp alongside the sounds of various insects. The dirt road is enveloped by the grass, and no sign of any road, house, nor other artificial structure is visible. Only a few empty soda cans, bleached in the sun, provide any sign of civilized life. But Silver does not make the full 300 meters before he meets the water. The water is stained-black water in some areas, and diluted seawater in others, with the two merging. Trees pop out of the water, forming a swamp. In some areas dense balls of roots stick out of the water, while in others there are small islands of clay and dirt.
>>132328
"This looks like place he was describing."
He keeps going until he's reached 300 or so meters, and then looks for the willow tree.
"This looks like place he was describing."
He keeps going until he's reached 300 or so meters, and then looks for the willow tree.
>>132329
Silver sees it. It's a graceful, very old tree (well over a century), sitting on an island in the mangrove near where the swamp exits to the bay, its roots peaking out from the mud and dipping into the water. Its branches are larger and heavier towards the south, and its canopy is both wider than the tree is tall, and larger than the small mud island it sprang from. The location must be in the water
Silver sees it. It's a graceful, very old tree (well over a century), sitting on an island in the mangrove near where the swamp exits to the bay, its roots peaking out from the mud and dipping into the water. Its branches are larger and heavier towards the south, and its canopy is both wider than the tree is tall, and larger than the small mud island it sprang from. The location must be in the water
>>132330
Silver appreciates the gorgeous tree for a moment, before travelling north from the tree's position for about 10 meters, feeling the bottom of the water for anything.
Silver appreciates the gorgeous tree for a moment, before travelling north from the tree's position for about 10 meters, feeling the bottom of the water for anything.
>>132331
And now here is the hard part - searching the water for anything. Mala gets in the water, a little reticent, trying to keep himself mostly above the water, and is uneasy where his paws meet soft mud
And now here is the hard part - searching the water for anything. Mala gets in the water, a little reticent, trying to keep himself mostly above the water, and is uneasy where his paws meet soft mud
>>132332
If I need to roll, let me know.
Silver continues to feel along the bottom with his hooves.
"I do hope it is not buried."
If I need to roll, let me know.
Silver continues to feel along the bottom with his hooves.
"I do hope it is not buried."
>>132335
Silver thinks he sees a glimmer in the water, through the mud. Further up the mangrove, a splash and movement
Silver thinks he sees a glimmer in the water, through the mud. Further up the mangrove, a splash and movement
>>132336
"I think I found it! Mala, keep lookout while I bring it up."
Silver digs through the mud around the glimmering object with his hooves.
"I think I found it! Mala, keep lookout while I bring it up."
Silver digs through the mud around the glimmering object with his hooves.
>>132337
"Oh, okay." Mala looks around, and backs up. Feeling down into the water, Silver can feel the edges of a rectangular tin box. It's almost like a lunch box, underneath a little debris and largely in the mud. The disrupted mud makes it hard to see in the water.
"Oh, okay." Mala looks around, and backs up. Feeling down into the water, Silver can feel the edges of a rectangular tin box. It's almost like a lunch box, underneath a little debris and largely in the mud. The disrupted mud makes it hard to see in the water.
>>132338
Feeling for its location and dimensions with his hooves, Silver uses his telekinesis to pull it out of the water.
Feeling for its location and dimensions with his hooves, Silver uses his telekinesis to pull it out of the water.
>>132339
It's a bit harder to get a grasp of an object that cannot be seen and is surrounded by water and sand, but he gets a grasp eventually, tugging on a side which then slips, and gains a hold on a different corner, pulling it closer up
"Uh, Silver?!"
It's a bit harder to get a grasp of an object that cannot be seen and is surrounded by water and sand, but he gets a grasp eventually, tugging on a side which then slips, and gains a hold on a different corner, pulling it closer up
"Uh, Silver?!"
>>132341
"Alright"
She takes her down to a door on the right, and passes through into another hallway. But the two do not walk far at all before coming to a large door already partly open and taking them through. Amber enters into another large room with a ceiling of maybe 15 feet, and large latticed windows on the far side that allow a view of the bay. The walls have a reddish color, and there are several lavish couches, a fireplace, tables and models of ships. There is also a radio in the corner
"Here is the stateroom" she says
>>132342
"There's a... there's a thing in the water!"
Something large is moving in the water in the direction of Silver. Mala has pulled back with his rear paws on the island, facing the water
"Alright"
She takes her down to a door on the right, and passes through into another hallway. But the two do not walk far at all before coming to a large door already partly open and taking them through. Amber enters into another large room with a ceiling of maybe 15 feet, and large latticed windows on the far side that allow a view of the bay. The walls have a reddish color, and there are several lavish couches, a fireplace, tables and models of ships. There is also a radio in the corner
"Here is the stateroom" she says
>>132342
"There's a... there's a thing in the water!"
Something large is moving in the water in the direction of Silver. Mala has pulled back with his rear paws on the island, facing the water
File (): 4E663A5AC0FB35BCFB1BAA54BBD05B21-193406.jpg (188.9 KB, 961x815, a9e5dd582f03ec138fdca167ecc22bf2.jpg)
>>132348
Pic related isn't exactly accurate, as this location would have larger windows to take advantage of the location
Looking outside, Amber can see the two sides of Horseshoe bay with hills on the North/left side, and forests on the South/right, along with a glimpse of the fortress at Locust Promontory and the passenger terminals below it, the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, the carnival pier at the base of the peninsula, besides waves, freighter ships, a small patrol ship, a couple fishing trawlers and sail boats. Or so she could see. Mostly, she can see the water, the white wave caps, and the cloud studded skies
>>132349
Roll for Initiative
[1d20+1 = 6]
Pic related isn't exactly accurate, as this location would have larger windows to take advantage of the location
Looking outside, Amber can see the two sides of Horseshoe bay with hills on the North/left side, and forests on the South/right, along with a glimpse of the fortress at Locust Promontory and the passenger terminals below it, the lighthouse at the end of the peninsula, the carnival pier at the base of the peninsula, besides waves, freighter ships, a small patrol ship, a couple fishing trawlers and sail boats. Or so she could see. Mostly, she can see the water, the white wave caps, and the cloud studded skies
>>132349
Roll for Initiative
[1d20+1 = 6]
>>132351
Silver is unfortunate, as a giant mouth rushes forth out of the water, charging at him
[1d20+6 = 11]
Silver is unfortunate, as a giant mouth rushes forth out of the water, charging at him
[1d20+6 = 11]
>>132350
She stares at the enviable view, mouth slightly agape, as she tries to discern the details of the many buildings along the coast. "This room must have seen so much history, tell me more! I reckon there must've been quite a few artists who painted here."
She stares at the enviable view, mouth slightly agape, as she tries to discern the details of the many buildings along the coast. "This room must have seen so much history, tell me more! I reckon there must've been quite a few artists who painted here."
>>132352
As I believe Silver is wearing his armor, even with as much damage as it has taken and with him being caught flat-hoofed, it still blocks the bite.
As I believe Silver is wearing his armor, even with as much damage as it has taken and with him being caught flat-hoofed, it still blocks the bite.
>>132353
"Well, Ephemeral Essence painted the view somewhere around this property sometime in the 820s. It's disputed as to where exactly he stood, though, but he was a guest here at the time. Sea Wonderer painted the landscape here shortly after his successful solo trip across the ocean in a sailboat in 903. Sea Wanderer isn't exactly known mostly for his art though. There's a good chance that Curwhinny's orginal portraits were painted here, in this room, though the room would have been very different at the time. As for history, I think the most significant event was Crisp Currency starting his campaign as mayor of Baltimare here in 910."
>>132354
It's the mouth and head of a large crocodile-like reptile. It nips the end of Silver's chest armor, but never gets a firm hold.
Silver's turn
"Well, Ephemeral Essence painted the view somewhere around this property sometime in the 820s. It's disputed as to where exactly he stood, though, but he was a guest here at the time. Sea Wonderer painted the landscape here shortly after his successful solo trip across the ocean in a sailboat in 903. Sea Wanderer isn't exactly known mostly for his art though. There's a good chance that Curwhinny's orginal portraits were painted here, in this room, though the room would have been very different at the time. As for history, I think the most significant event was Crisp Currency starting his campaign as mayor of Baltimare here in 910."
>>132354
It's the mouth and head of a large crocodile-like reptile. It nips the end of Silver's chest armor, but never gets a firm hold.
Silver's turn
>>132355
Amber blinks. "How do you start a political campaign in such a small room?" She looks unsure.
Amber blinks. "How do you start a political campaign in such a small room?" She looks unsure.
>>132356
"Announce it to a few of the wealthy and the press, then afterwards move to the ballroom of the Grand Baltimare Hotel for a more public statement. The Tall Sails Company was of course one the main instigators for his campaign, hence why he announced here." she answers
"Announce it to a few of the wealthy and the press, then afterwards move to the ballroom of the Grand Baltimare Hotel for a more public statement. The Tall Sails Company was of course one the main instigators for his campaign, hence why he announced here." she answers
>>132357
"Oh..." Amber still looks confused but decides to move on. "How many fireplaces are in this house? I saw a lot of chimneys."
"Oh..." Amber still looks confused but decides to move on. "How many fireplaces are in this house? I saw a lot of chimneys."
>>132358
"Well, this one links to one upstairs. There is another in the parlor room, and one over in the south side. About four, in total."
"Well, this one links to one upstairs. There is another in the parlor room, and one over in the south side. About four, in total."
>>132362
"Does it ever get cold here on the coast? You'd probably be worried about storms, I think. How oftern do those come?"
"Does it ever get cold here on the coast? You'd probably be worried about storms, I think. How oftern do those come?"
>>132365
"It doesn't get especially cold often, but it can sometimes. The fireplaces are as much for aesthetic purposes as for actual heating. The big mansions up north in Canterlot and Bales have fireplaces, so it was expected that the home of a wealthy stallion would here too. As for storms... Yes. they can get pretty bad. There was the big one back in 34' that leveled much of the city and made them raise the elevation of the coastal homes. This home survived because it was a little higher, on a rocky outcropping. But it had to be raised as well and was renovated in the process. Even before then, the Hurricane of 884' did a number on the house, and forced changes to the structure."
>>132366
Silver runs it through the head. It had already stopped moving, but with another bloody stab, the creature is definitively dead. Mala runs over, holding Silver's old greatsword
"It doesn't get especially cold often, but it can sometimes. The fireplaces are as much for aesthetic purposes as for actual heating. The big mansions up north in Canterlot and Bales have fireplaces, so it was expected that the home of a wealthy stallion would here too. As for storms... Yes. they can get pretty bad. There was the big one back in 34' that leveled much of the city and made them raise the elevation of the coastal homes. This home survived because it was a little higher, on a rocky outcropping. But it had to be raised as well and was renovated in the process. Even before then, the Hurricane of 884' did a number on the house, and forced changes to the structure."
>>132366
Silver runs it through the head. It had already stopped moving, but with another bloody stab, the creature is definitively dead. Mala runs over, holding Silver's old greatsword
>>132369
Mala breathes hard, and takes a moment to place the sword into the ground. He stares at the dead crocogator, not acknowledging Silver
Mala breathes hard, and takes a moment to place the sword into the ground. He stares at the dead crocogator, not acknowledging Silver
>>132368
Amber frowns. "Seems hard to not be afraid of the sea. The Rime of the Ancient Marener doesn't make it look too inviting."
Amber frowns. "Seems hard to not be afraid of the sea. The Rime of the Ancient Marener doesn't make it look too inviting."
>>132372
"Well, so long as the sea does not come to me, I am fine with it. I live further inland, away from the sea."
"Well, so long as the sea does not come to me, I am fine with it. I live further inland, away from the sea."
>>132374
"No, but thank you for asking. It got caught on my armor."
He looks down at this crocogator.
"Hmm...tell me, have you ever eaten crocogator meat before?"
"No, but thank you for asking. It got caught on my armor."
He looks down at this crocogator.
"Hmm...tell me, have you ever eaten crocogator meat before?"
>>132375
"Many will go swimming at the beach. Some will go out on yachts or sailboats. The Tall Sails family has had a private yacht of one form or another for much of its history"
>>132376
He looks down at it
"I don't think so? I am not sure. My mother would not always tell me what it was she brought home was. But I have can't remember eating anything like that before."
"Many will go swimming at the beach. Some will go out on yachts or sailboats. The Tall Sails family has had a private yacht of one form or another for much of its history"
>>132376
He looks down at it
"I don't think so? I am not sure. My mother would not always tell me what it was she brought home was. But I have can't remember eating anything like that before."
>>132377
"Well, it would be shame to leave it here to decompose. Perhaps we can bring it, or at least some of its meat, back?"
"Well, it would be shame to leave it here to decompose. Perhaps we can bring it, or at least some of its meat, back?"
>>132377
She mulls this over. "Do you happen to know if there's an aquarium in Baltimare? I've heard of those and I've always wanted to see."
Yes they existed at this time, just uncommon
She mulls this over. "Do you happen to know if there's an aquarium in Baltimare? I've heard of those and I've always wanted to see."
Yes they existed at this time, just uncommon
>>132380
Silver decides to see how heavy the crocogator is, and decide what to do with it from there.
Silver decides to see how heavy the crocogator is, and decide what to do with it from there.
>>132383
He quickly ceases his attempt before he tires himself out.
"Alright, that is not going to work...wish me luck, Mala. I have never skinned crocogator before, but I am going to try."
Silver pulls out his knife, and attempts to skin the crocogator. He hopes to be able to use the creature's hide as a way to carry and hold the meat on the journey home.
He quickly ceases his attempt before he tires himself out.
"Alright, that is not going to work...wish me luck, Mala. I have never skinned crocogator before, but I am going to try."
Silver pulls out his knife, and attempts to skin the crocogator. He hopes to be able to use the creature's hide as a way to carry and hold the meat on the journey home.
>>132386
Silver looks up from what he's doing when he sees Mala cutting away.
"Going to taste test, I assume?"
Silver looks up from what he's doing when he sees Mala cutting away.
"Going to taste test, I assume?"
>>132388
He smiles awkwardly at Mala.
"Oh, uh...sorry. Thank you."
Silver resumes carving the crocogator.
He smiles awkwardly at Mala.
"Oh, uh...sorry. Thank you."
Silver resumes carving the crocogator.
>>132389
"Oh, mysteries, murders and such. A detective who tries to uncover crimes. I haven't exactly read them all. To be honest, I liked Whinnying Heights more. Mostly I just talk about other mares at the meetings."
>>132390
It's quite a large quantity of meat and skin. Having a boat here would be very helpful.
"Oh, mysteries, murders and such. A detective who tries to uncover crimes. I haven't exactly read them all. To be honest, I liked Whinnying Heights more. Mostly I just talk about other mares at the meetings."
>>132390
It's quite a large quantity of meat and skin. Having a boat here would be very helpful.
It's a good opportunity to meet other ponies…
"I haven't read many detective stories but it does sound interesting. The meeting, I mean."
"I haven't read many detective stories but it does sound interesting. The meeting, I mean."
>>132391
Indeed, it's something to keep in mind for the future if they ever decide to hunt for crocogator. Silver just hopes what they've gathered is still manageable for them to carry.
Indeed, it's something to keep in mind for the future if they ever decide to hunt for crocogator. Silver just hopes what they've gathered is still manageable for them to carry.
>>132394
"No offense, but do you know of something similar for ponies closer to my age? I...think I would feel out of place."
"No offense, but do you know of something similar for ponies closer to my age? I...think I would feel out of place."
>>132398
"Well...I suppose we carry it. I do not have anything else to bring it in with, unless you have idea."
"Well...I suppose we carry it. I do not have anything else to bring it in with, unless you have idea."
>>132403
"Hmm...true. Well, we went to all this trouble for this meat. I suppose either we will have to trot all way back home, or find boat rental."
"Hmm...true. Well, we went to all this trouble for this meat. I suppose either we will have to trot all way back home, or find boat rental."
>>132405
"That, too. Let me look in this case and get all of this meat and hide strapped up, then we will go see."
Silver grabs the case, and goes to open it.
"That, too. Let me look in this case and get all of this meat and hide strapped up, then we will go see."
Silver grabs the case, and goes to open it.
>>132408
crack
The lock breaks right open, opening the box to the inside.
Silver sees its contents: jewelry
There’s a golden chain necklace, a stop watch. A wedding bracelet fit for a pony. A heart locket. Several earrings.
crack
The lock breaks right open, opening the box to the inside.
Silver sees its contents: jewelry
There’s a golden chain necklace, a stop watch. A wedding bracelet fit for a pony. A heart locket. Several earrings.
>>132409
"Not bad. We will have to find fence for all of this, but not bad."
Silver closes the case, and puts it in his bags. He then starts to prepare the meat and hide for carrying.
"Ready Mala?"
"Not bad. We will have to find fence for all of this, but not bad."
Silver closes the case, and puts it in his bags. He then starts to prepare the meat and hide for carrying.
"Ready Mala?"
>>132410
>I was out petting stray cats
I would have expected that response from Sven, but not from you
"Well, yes. At the University of Baltimare, or James Haykins. There are many young mares your age, and many stallions too."
>>132411
The hide is easily rolled up. Carrying the meat is just a little harder, but it can be placed across the back
"Sure."
Mala carries much of the meat himself
>I was out petting stray cats
I would have expected that response from Sven, but not from you
"Well, yes. At the University of Baltimare, or James Haykins. There are many young mares your age, and many stallions too."
>>132411
The hide is easily rolled up. Carrying the meat is just a little harder, but it can be placed across the back
"Sure."
Mala carries much of the meat himself
>>132412
What he can't carry, Silver carries himself.
"Let us head back into town way we came. Perhaps we will find somepony who will take us in their truck?"
What he can't carry, Silver carries himself.
"Let us head back into town way we came. Perhaps we will find somepony who will take us in their truck?"
>>132416
"Yes...let us hurry. I do not want to have to deal with another crocogator."
Silver heads first, backtracking to Sycamore Street.
"Yes...let us hurry. I do not want to have to deal with another crocogator."
Silver heads first, backtracking to Sycamore Street.
>>132417
The area is too urban and developed to have to deal with Manticore or Hydras... probably. Snakes and bees... that's another story. They make it across the water by wading through it, and through to the dirt road on the other side of the brush, which connects with Sicamore street
>>132418
"Oh of course. Over on the other side of here is the writing room"
She takes her across the hallway, and into a room that connects to the library, with a grand chair, a hardwood and leather-topped desk, a couple book shelves, a globe, and walls covered in nautical maps of the world.
The area is too urban and developed to have to deal with Manticore or Hydras... probably. Snakes and bees... that's another story. They make it across the water by wading through it, and through to the dirt road on the other side of the brush, which connects with Sicamore street
>>132418
"Oh of course. Over on the other side of here is the writing room"
She takes her across the hallway, and into a room that connects to the library, with a grand chair, a hardwood and leather-topped desk, a couple book shelves, a globe, and walls covered in nautical maps of the world.
>>132419
"Is it called the writing room because the family would write books here? It's a good place to do it."
"Is it called the writing room because the family would write books here? It's a good place to do it."
>>132420
"Well, you certainly could write a book here. Mostly its for writing letters of correspondence."
"Well, you certainly could write a book here. Mostly its for writing letters of correspondence."
>>132424
And now Silver is walking down a rural road south east of Baltimare, a decent way away from the city
And now Silver is walking down a rural road south east of Baltimare, a decent way away from the city
>>132426
Some books new and old. How to Win Friends and Influence Ponies, The Princess, The Decline of Faustian Civilization... mostly political/philosophical-esque, with a tendency towards newer titles.
Some books new and old. How to Win Friends and Influence Ponies, The Princess, The Decline of Faustian Civilization... mostly political/philosophical-esque, with a tendency towards newer titles.
>>132425
And Silver trots along it, hoping against hope that they come across someone driving a truck.
And Silver trots along it, hoping against hope that they come across someone driving a truck.
>>132428
"For me..." She looks down. "Probably the conservatory... but that's not really part of the house. If not the library or stateroom, then the dining hall. Or perhaps the master bedroom upstairs, or the long gallery. The south-side drawing room has its charms as well"
"For me..." She looks down. "Probably the conservatory... but that's not really part of the house. If not the library or stateroom, then the dining hall. Or perhaps the master bedroom upstairs, or the long gallery. The south-side drawing room has its charms as well"
>>132430
"I think it's best you show me. It's such a gorgeous house I want to see as much of it as I can."
"I think it's best you show me. It's such a gorgeous house I want to see as much of it as I can."
>>132432
She takes her further down the hall to the far end, opening into a room. This one has a high ceiling, wooden floors, a grand piano, and a fireplace a phonograph and a radio. Part of the floor is lower than the remainder, accessed by a small stairs, and this large open area is covered in wood and looks like it is intended as a dance floor. It's maybe half the width of the stateroom, but the same length. Likewise, it has a view out to the bay, especially of a small boat house.
"Here is the south side drawing room"
She takes her further down the hall to the far end, opening into a room. This one has a high ceiling, wooden floors, a grand piano, and a fireplace a phonograph and a radio. Part of the floor is lower than the remainder, accessed by a small stairs, and this large open area is covered in wood and looks like it is intended as a dance floor. It's maybe half the width of the stateroom, but the same length. Likewise, it has a view out to the bay, especially of a small boat house.
"Here is the south side drawing room"
Amber looks around. "I can only imagine the functions that took place here."
>>132434
“Well, mostly it’s for dancing an casual music playing. Guests can be entertained here as well though.”
“Well, mostly it’s for dancing an casual music playing. Guests can be entertained here as well though.”
>>132436
Sure enough, a stallion observes the two from the end of what must be a private driveway as they walk past
Sure enough, a stallion observes the two from the end of what must be a private driveway as they walk past
>>132438
“Well, yes. It’s all a part of being a socialite; you often receive guests from elsewhere in Baltimare or all around Equestria. However, generally guests would first come into the parlor room, or the great state room. They wouldn’t generally make their way to this room until they had been... loosen up with wine, or gin. Once they are here, that is when musical revelry begins.”
“Well, yes. It’s all a part of being a socialite; you often receive guests from elsewhere in Baltimare or all around Equestria. However, generally guests would first come into the parlor room, or the great state room. They wouldn’t generally make their way to this room until they had been... loosen up with wine, or gin. Once they are here, that is when musical revelry begins.”
>>132440
He blinks, and doesn’t immediately address the question
“What are you folks doin’ out here? You seem kind of lost”
He blinks, and doesn’t immediately address the question
“What are you folks doin’ out here? You seem kind of lost”
>>132441
"Not really lost...we went out hunting crocogators and forgot to bring transportation out of swamp. We could use ride back home if you did not mind. We are willing to pay you."
"Not really lost...we went out hunting crocogators and forgot to bring transportation out of swamp. We could use ride back home if you did not mind. We are willing to pay you."
Okay... I has to sleep now
>>132446
"Of course. All of the spirits may help in healing through the inter-connectivity of nature. Believe me, we've tried."
She closes her eyes, and lowers her head. She remains silent in that position for some seconds, and then opens her eyes and resumes speaking. Her eyes look down, and her head remains down.
"We've done every ritual. Prayer, dance. We've burned the tobacco, the sage, cedar, and sweetgrass. Breathed in the fumes, and nothing has healed him so far."
She looks up to spark now, with a couple small tears coming from her golden eyes
"I don't think anything in nature can help him because I do not believe his illness came from nature. That's the thing. I don't think his illness is natural. Wolves can get swelling late in life but... this is different."
"Of course. All of the spirits may help in healing through the inter-connectivity of nature. Believe me, we've tried."
She closes her eyes, and lowers her head. She remains silent in that position for some seconds, and then opens her eyes and resumes speaking. Her eyes look down, and her head remains down.
"We've done every ritual. Prayer, dance. We've burned the tobacco, the sage, cedar, and sweetgrass. Breathed in the fumes, and nothing has healed him so far."
She looks up to spark now, with a couple small tears coming from her golden eyes
"I don't think anything in nature can help him because I do not believe his illness came from nature. That's the thing. I don't think his illness is natural. Wolves can get swelling late in life but... this is different."
>>132448
She blinks, then quickly shakes her head
"No. I think either the digging did it, or it was when he was working in the town, but... I don't know... Is the digging not magical? I don't think it was intentional. I think the ponies do not understand what they are messing with when they deviate from nature's course. That, or they do not care. I think it is a rot brought on by this deviation. But I do not know. It may be a curse. If it is, our spells have not healed it."
She blinks, then quickly shakes her head
"No. I think either the digging did it, or it was when he was working in the town, but... I don't know... Is the digging not magical? I don't think it was intentional. I think the ponies do not understand what they are messing with when they deviate from nature's course. That, or they do not care. I think it is a rot brought on by this deviation. But I do not know. It may be a curse. If it is, our spells have not healed it."
>>132449
"Perhaps it is something in the ground... do you remember what they were digging for and where?"
"Perhaps it is something in the ground... do you remember what they were digging for and where?"
>>132450
"South of here. I think it was for metal. They would pick up the dirt and put it into piles, and sometimes that would wash into the river and the lakes."
"South of here. I think it was for metal. They would pick up the dirt and put it into piles, and sometimes that would wash into the river and the lakes."
>>132451
Would ponies know about radioactive materials? Their nukes are made of crystal magic tech, so would they have Geiger counters or anything?
"Do you mind if I take a look there?"
Would ponies know about radioactive materials? Their nukes are made of crystal magic tech, so would they have Geiger counters or anything?
"Do you mind if I take a look there?"
>>132463
She again tilts her head, with her left ear coming down horizontally, while her right ear remains vertical
“What can you do?” She asks
She again tilts her head, with her left ear coming down horizontally, while her right ear remains vertical
“What can you do?” She asks
>>132466
She pauses for a moment, placing her right paw up, bending her foreleg
"Maybe. I can show you where the dirt was piled. That should not be too close to the doubles."
>>132442
He comes a little closer, and inspects the two
"Looks like you got a nice hide there" He comes closer
"Ain't an elegant way of carrying meat" He has a slight disgust at this
"And what's up with your dog here?"
She pauses for a moment, placing her right paw up, bending her foreleg
"Maybe. I can show you where the dirt was piled. That should not be too close to the doubles."
>>132442
He comes a little closer, and inspects the two
"Looks like you got a nice hide there" He comes closer
"Ain't an elegant way of carrying meat" He has a slight disgust at this
"And what's up with your dog here?"
>>132468
"Huh" He looks over to Silver
"You look like you got yourselves a good aligator there.... might even be a saltwater crocodile. Hard to tell when it's all cut up. Yeah, I can give y'all a ride"
"Huh" He looks over to Silver
"You look like you got yourselves a good aligator there.... might even be a saltwater crocodile. Hard to tell when it's all cut up. Yeah, I can give y'all a ride"
>>132469
Silver smiles at the stallion.
"Thank you. I realize we have not given each other our names. I am Silver Sword."
Silver smiles at the stallion.
"Thank you. I realize we have not given each other our names. I am Silver Sword."
>>132470
“Nice to meet ya” the stallion - light brown, earth pony, wearing a cap - extends a hoof. “I’m Chipper Will”
“Nice to meet ya” the stallion - light brown, earth pony, wearing a cap - extends a hoof. “I’m Chipper Will”
>>132292
>>132293
The shuttle shakes and tremble. Fantasy Play's hooves hold the steering wheel firmly as her eyes stare at the black hole in space sucking everything towards her.
The buzzing of static is heard and then a voice.
"Fantasy! Fantasy! Fantasy! Do you copy?" a feminine voice.
Fantasy's lips turn downwards adn her eyebrows form a roof.
"I'm here, Amber," she whisper back.
"Where are you? Are you still at the station? The reality breaker is gone. Y-you don't have it do you? Please, say you don't," the voiced quaked on the other end.
A tear ran down Fantasy's eye and made her cheek glistened and she smiled.
"Heh, nothing goes by you unotice, does it, Amber?"
"This is no laughing matter? Where are you right now?"
"Well, near our great galaxy's center. Andromeda's black hole."
"What?! No. Please... W-we can still fix this. I'm sure there's something else we can do about the reality breaker. Just- Just- Just. Come back."
Fantasy grinned.
"Tell the others that I regret not spending more time with them. I'm sure we would have lots of fun and I'm sure we will in ponyheaven."
"Please, Fantasy!"
"Thanks you for your support Amber. Your enthusiastic autistic ramblings about dnd in ponyland always managed to cheer me up." She wiped away one of her tears with her hoof.
"Don't-"
Amber's vocie was cut off as Fantasy turn the volume wheel down on the radio.
"This is Sargent Fantasy Play signing off one last time," she said and shut off the radio.
Warning! Incomming special reductions. Level:Deadly.
She brought together her hooves in a paryer.
GM, I'm sorry about not playing when you took so much effort in including me.
The shuttle boomed and Fantasy was shaken in her cockpit like there was an earthquake. She saw how the tip of her space shuttle got elongated into a line straight into the blackness ahead of her.
She grinned a melancholic smile.
"Oy vey." she could feel her face and hoof getting pulled towards the abyss in fornt of her. "It's like another shoah."
Then her ship disappeared in the darkness.
One of these days I'll play again.
>>132293
The shuttle shakes and tremble. Fantasy Play's hooves hold the steering wheel firmly as her eyes stare at the black hole in space sucking everything towards her.
The buzzing of static is heard and then a voice.
"Fantasy! Fantasy! Fantasy! Do you copy?" a feminine voice.
Fantasy's lips turn downwards adn her eyebrows form a roof.
"I'm here, Amber," she whisper back.
"Where are you? Are you still at the station? The reality breaker is gone. Y-you don't have it do you? Please, say you don't," the voiced quaked on the other end.
A tear ran down Fantasy's eye and made her cheek glistened and she smiled.
"Heh, nothing goes by you unotice, does it, Amber?"
"This is no laughing matter? Where are you right now?"
"Well, near our great galaxy's center. Andromeda's black hole."
"What?! No. Please... W-we can still fix this. I'm sure there's something else we can do about the reality breaker. Just- Just- Just. Come back."
Fantasy grinned.
"Tell the others that I regret not spending more time with them. I'm sure we would have lots of fun and I'm sure we will in ponyheaven."
"Please, Fantasy!"
"Thanks you for your support Amber. Your enthusiastic autistic ramblings about dnd in ponyland always managed to cheer me up." She wiped away one of her tears with her hoof.
"Don't-"
Amber's vocie was cut off as Fantasy turn the volume wheel down on the radio.
"This is Sargent Fantasy Play signing off one last time," she said and shut off the radio.
Warning! Incomming special reductions. Level:Deadly.
She brought together her hooves in a paryer.
GM, I'm sorry about not playing when you took so much effort in including me.
The shuttle boomed and Fantasy was shaken in her cockpit like there was an earthquake. She saw how the tip of her space shuttle got elongated into a line straight into the blackness ahead of her.
She grinned a melancholic smile.
"Oy vey." she could feel her face and hoof getting pulled towards the abyss in fornt of her. "It's like another shoah."
Then her ship disappeared in the darkness.
One of these days I'll play again.
>>132474
https://youtu.be/iYYRH4apXDo
Aww. Well I hope you join us again soon. Feel free to jump in any time
>>132476
Fairly firm. He breaks away a little early though. Like Parade Pass, he wears nailed-in iron shoes. “Alright, just uh.. come on back here
>>132475
She smiles
“I can guide you. Perhaps Makade may want to come along if you need more serious protection.”
https://youtu.be/iYYRH4apXDo
Aww. Well I hope you join us again soon. Feel free to jump in any time
>>132476
Fairly firm. He breaks away a little early though. Like Parade Pass, he wears nailed-in iron shoes. “Alright, just uh.. come on back here
>>132475
She smiles
“I can guide you. Perhaps Makade may want to come along if you need more serious protection.”
File (): 1C20A4342EB63ACA454402A70DE2696C-7479835.png (7.1 MB, 3000x3000, 16756.png)
File (): 15755F1FC8C17B1ED45319CBCF330B59-29633.jpg (28.9 KB, 400x258, 1936 chevrolet open express 1.jpg)
>>132480
Have a pony
>>132479
"I think you have more of a way with him..."
>>132481
Chipperwill takes Silver down the dirt driveway, past a barren limbed tree, around grass, and to a pickup truck parked in the dirt and gravel next to a raised 1 story tin-roofed ranch house. The truck's red paint is starting to chip and is covered in dirt; the wheels in mud. These are the only blemishes on an otherwise excellent looking pick up truck.
Have a pony
>>132479
"I think you have more of a way with him..."
>>132481
Chipperwill takes Silver down the dirt driveway, past a barren limbed tree, around grass, and to a pickup truck parked in the dirt and gravel next to a raised 1 story tin-roofed ranch house. The truck's red paint is starting to chip and is covered in dirt; the wheels in mud. These are the only blemishes on an otherwise excellent looking pick up truck.
>>132482
"Automobiles have come long way since they were first invented. So, you want us in pickup bed, I assume?"
"Automobiles have come long way since they were first invented. So, you want us in pickup bed, I assume?"
>>132487
"Sure. Toss your skin, your lunch box, your... 'partner,' and your uh... meat into the bed." He pauses "Should probably get a cooler or something to put all that it."
"Sure. Toss your skin, your lunch box, your... 'partner,' and your uh... meat into the bed." He pauses "Should probably get a cooler or something to put all that it."
>>132488
Silver rubs the back of his neck.
"Yes, we, uh...forgot to bring one. Something to remember for next time. Think we can make quick stop at store to get one?"
Silver rubs the back of his neck.
"Yes, we, uh...forgot to bring one. Something to remember for next time. Think we can make quick stop at store to get one?"
>>132491
"Thank you, Chipper."
Silver helps Mala get everything in the truck bed, then gets in the truck himself.
"Thank you, Chipper."
Silver helps Mala get everything in the truck bed, then gets in the truck himself.
>>132492
Mala hops up into the bed, evidently having done this before. Keeping the meat on a clean surface is a little challenging, but at least it can be washed off later. There's some dirt and especially dead leaves in the bed. Chipper Will pulls the choke, and starts up the engine.
"Alright. I'll take you up towards the general store" he says
Mala hops up into the bed, evidently having done this before. Keeping the meat on a clean surface is a little challenging, but at least it can be washed off later. There's some dirt and especially dead leaves in the bed. Chipper Will pulls the choke, and starts up the engine.
"Alright. I'll take you up towards the general store" he says
>>132494
He starts up the truck and backs out, and they start on their way down the road. Mala sits quietly towards the center, as the truck pulls them around and up Sicamore street
He starts up the truck and backs out, and they start on their way down the road. Mala sits quietly towards the center, as the truck pulls them around and up Sicamore street
>>132496
The rear window opens up
"Better question is, how long has Baltimare been over me? I've been in these parts all my life." he answers
The rear window opens up
"Better question is, how long has Baltimare been over me? I've been in these parts all my life." he answers
>>132497
"Impressive that you have lived all way out here for long time, right next to gator-infested swamps."
"Impressive that you have lived all way out here for long time, right next to gator-infested swamps."
>>132499
"That makes sense. Hard to do with so much water and so little land though. I think I will have to buy boat."
"That makes sense. Hard to do with so much water and so little land though. I think I will have to buy boat."
>>132500
"There's plenty of ponies with boats. Know what you want to do with your boat first. If you want to go into rivers and marshes, you want a flat bottomed boat with a motor close to the waterline. If you want to go out into the bay, get something with a deeper draft it will be more stable in the waves."
"There's plenty of ponies with boats. Know what you want to do with your boat first. If you want to go into rivers and marshes, you want a flat bottomed boat with a motor close to the waterline. If you want to go out into the bay, get something with a deeper draft it will be more stable in the waves."
>>132505
"Thank you, I will be right back."
Silver gets out of the truck and into the store, looking for a cooler large enough to hold all of their meat.
"Thank you, I will be right back."
Silver gets out of the truck and into the store, looking for a cooler large enough to hold all of their meat.
>>132506
It's a bit larger than a general store, and seems to focus on fishing supplies. Silver seems a metal cooler, evidently designed to carry fish in
It's a bit larger than a general store, and seems to focus on fishing supplies. Silver seems a metal cooler, evidently designed to carry fish in
>>132507
"That will work."
Silver buys it at the counter, and takes it back to the truck to put the meat in.
"That will work."
Silver buys it at the counter, and takes it back to the truck to put the meat in.
>>132508
It's kind of expensive - 30 bits - but Silver gets it. It looks to be non-corrosive, at least. Mala helps to place the meat into the cooler, until the container is overflowing
It's kind of expensive - 30 bits - but Silver gets it. It looks to be non-corrosive, at least. Mala helps to place the meat into the cooler, until the container is overflowing
>>132511
"Damn...hang on just sec..."
Silver, silently cursing to himself, goes in, buys another, and splits the meat between the two containers.
"Damn...hang on just sec..."
Silver, silently cursing to himself, goes in, buys another, and splits the meat between the two containers.
>>132513
Once finished, Silver gets back in the truck, and lets out a sigh.
"There we go. Alright, we are ready to head home now."
He gives Chipper the home address.
Once finished, Silver gets back in the truck, and lets out a sigh.
"There we go. Alright, we are ready to head home now."
He gives Chipper the home address.
>>132516
He looks back to Silver for a moment. Then he turns around and says, “well, onto Cherry Hill then” and pulls out onto the street, on their way
He looks back to Silver for a moment. Then he turns around and says, “well, onto Cherry Hill then” and pulls out onto the street, on their way
>>132518
Well, Silver is presumably in the bed with Mala (he could sit in the front passenger seat, though, if he wants). The remainder of this trip is fairly familiar by now. They go back along the avenue across the bridge, then onto a an avenue that takes them to Horseman avenue in Red Heart, then through Red Heart, Cowtown, and Cherry Hill along the water back to the beach house
Well, Silver is presumably in the bed with Mala (he could sit in the front passenger seat, though, if he wants). The remainder of this trip is fairly familiar by now. They go back along the avenue across the bridge, then onto a an avenue that takes them to Horseman avenue in Red Heart, then through Red Heart, Cowtown, and Cherry Hill along the water back to the beach house
>>132521
"You too!"
Silver waves goodbye at him before Mala and him take the meat containers, hide, and the lockbox of jewelry and head inside the house.
"You too!"
Silver waves goodbye at him before Mala and him take the meat containers, hide, and the lockbox of jewelry and head inside the house.
>>132523
"Well, no. We are going to see if these fit in refrigerator, first. If not, we will need to remember to buy bags for after we clean meat."
"Well, no. We are going to see if these fit in refrigerator, first. If not, we will need to remember to buy bags for after we clean meat."
>>132524
"Uh, okay"
When Silver goes up the stairs through the front door, he can see Jubilosa is in the living room
"Uh, okay"
When Silver goes up the stairs through the front door, he can see Jubilosa is in the living room
>>132527
Silver drops what he's carrying so he can hug her back, though he's careful to not dirty her too much in the process.
"It feels good to return home to this."
Silver drops what he's carrying so he can hug her back, though he's careful to not dirty her too much in the process.
"It feels good to return home to this."
>>132528
D'aww
He's muddy and covered in blood though, so only so much can be helped in that regard. She pulls away, and loos up to Silver, smiling
D'aww
He's muddy and covered in blood though, so only so much can be helped in that regard. She pulls away, and loos up to Silver, smiling
>>132529
He smiles back warmly at the griffon in front of him.
"I am sorry about mud and blood. We got attacked by crocogator while checking out rumor of buried treasure in swamp. On bright side, we now have some meat after we clean it, and we actually found treasure."
He levitates the lockbox up, and opens it to show the jewelry to Jubilosa.
He smiles back warmly at the griffon in front of him.
"I am sorry about mud and blood. We got attacked by crocogator while checking out rumor of buried treasure in swamp. On bright side, we now have some meat after we clean it, and we actually found treasure."
He levitates the lockbox up, and opens it to show the jewelry to Jubilosa.
>>132530
"Crocogator?" She's kind of confused. Then she looks down at the jewelry in the box
"What is this." She says, astonished
"Crocogator?" She's kind of confused. Then she looks down at the jewelry in the box
"What is this." She says, astonished
>>132531
"It is treasure we found, lots of jewelry. Would you like to take look, see if anything catches your eye?"
"It is treasure we found, lots of jewelry. Would you like to take look, see if anything catches your eye?"
>>132532
She looks down into the box, and starts to move aside a bracelet, and a necklace with her claw
She looks down into the box, and starts to move aside a bracelet, and a necklace with her claw
>>132533
Silver first comments on the bracelet.
"Hmm. It looks like pony wedding bracelet. I wonder where its mate went."
He then comments on the necklace.
"It is beautiful...though it surely pales to your own beauty."
Silver first comments on the bracelet.
"Hmm. It looks like pony wedding bracelet. I wonder where its mate went."
He then comments on the necklace.
"It is beautiful...though it surely pales to your own beauty."
>>132534
She keeps looking down, and twists her mouth in concern at the "mate" of the wedding bracelet. But at the "beauty" remark, she moves back and looks up at Silver. Her feathers on her neck stand up somewhat. She smiles awkwadly
"heheh"
She keeps looking down, and twists her mouth in concern at the "mate" of the wedding bracelet. But at the "beauty" remark, she moves back and looks up at Silver. Her feathers on her neck stand up somewhat. She smiles awkwadly
"heheh"
>>132536
"Well. I guess... I could. Maybe."
She stretches her neck out, and moves her head closer towards Silver, smiling coquettishly.
"Well. I guess... I could. Maybe."
She stretches her neck out, and moves her head closer towards Silver, smiling coquettishly.
>>132538
She smiles again, and looks down
"Hehehehe"
Her smile fades quickly to a neutral expression, and then back to a smile
She smiles again, and looks down
"Hehehehe"
Her smile fades quickly to a neutral expression, and then back to a smile
>>132539
He gives Jubilosa a brief kiss.
"It looks gorgeous on you, Jubilosa. Now, I've got to go help Mala with storing meat, then I will go take shower."
He gives Jubilosa a brief kiss.
"It looks gorgeous on you, Jubilosa. Now, I've got to go help Mala with storing meat, then I will go take shower."
>>132491
"Well, you might consider this part of a patrol, just moving out a bit further than usual. I need to check something out at the mine. I think there might be a poison in the ground there, and if I find out what it is, I might be able to save Miskobag."
"Well, you might consider this part of a patrol, just moving out a bit further than usual. I need to check something out at the mine. I think there might be a poison in the ground there, and if I find out what it is, I might be able to save Miskobag."
>>132546
He shakes his head
“Nothing can save that old dog”
Then he looks back
“And if you are taken there, will you then make peace with the doubles?”
He shakes his head
“Nothing can save that old dog”
Then he looks back
“And if you are taken there, will you then make peace with the doubles?”
>>132548
Mala tried to force aside items in the freezer, although it’s packed in pretty tight. Mala moves aside fish and tries to pack it in
“My stomach could fit half of this...” Mala remarks.
At the very least, most can directly fit into the freezer, although cooking at least some of it or the fish that night might be necessary. The refrigerator has plenty of room.
Mala tried to force aside items in the freezer, although it’s packed in pretty tight. Mala moves aside fish and tries to pack it in
“My stomach could fit half of this...” Mala remarks.
At the very least, most can directly fit into the freezer, although cooking at least some of it or the fish that night might be necessary. The refrigerator has plenty of room.
>>132549
Silver helps to arrange some of the food items to making everything fit better.
"We will come some of it later, so you will have your chance. Maybe cooked crocogator will taste good."
Silver helps to arrange some of the food items to making everything fit better.
"We will come some of it later, so you will have your chance. Maybe cooked crocogator will taste good."
>>132550
The problem is primarily that it is not designed to fit so much food in there. Mala does speaks while looking ahead
“I just mean there are other ways to store it”
But then he looks up at Silver, and smiles
The problem is primarily that it is not designed to fit so much food in there. Mala does speaks while looking ahead
“I just mean there are other ways to store it”
But then he looks up at Silver, and smiles
>>132551
Dammit. I meant cook, not come.
Silver gives Mala some headpat, smiling back.
"So, how would you want it cooked later? We could pan fry it, or if we bought grill and charcoal we could grill it or even turn it into kebabs."
Dammit. I meant cook, not come.
Silver gives Mala some headpat, smiling back.
"So, how would you want it cooked later? We could pan fry it, or if we bought grill and charcoal we could grill it or even turn it into kebabs."
>>132552
“I’ve always eaten meat raw. Except pork and griffin sometimes. We would cook those if we were afraid of the trichinosis. I don’t think it tasted as good then.” He pauses “but I will try it”
“I’ve always eaten meat raw. Except pork and griffin sometimes. We would cook those if we were afraid of the trichinosis. I don’t think it tasted as good then.” He pauses “but I will try it”
>>132554
She is not. Mala, closer to the refrigerator and facing over towards the bar and dining area, is oriented to have a view of what’s in that area. It’s possible she could be in the living room, which is just a little further away. Come to think of it, Silver didn’t see Khoi at all when he came back.
She is not. Mala, closer to the refrigerator and facing over towards the bar and dining area, is oriented to have a view of what’s in that area. It’s possible she could be in the living room, which is just a little further away. Come to think of it, Silver didn’t see Khoi at all when he came back.
>>132555
I wonder where she went...
Silver turns to Mala.
"I personally prefer my meat cooked. I've heard it is more, eh...what is word...ah, 'nutritious' when cooked, and you can do much more with cooked meat than you can raw."
I wonder where she went...
Silver turns to Mala.
"I personally prefer my meat cooked. I've heard it is more, eh...what is word...ah, 'nutritious' when cooked, and you can do much more with cooked meat than you can raw."
>>132556
Mala tilts his head, and a single ear flops halfway down
“Maybe I should... We only ever cooked meat to kill tapeworms and I think they would over cook it... but a few times frozen meat would be heated up and it tasted good... whatever you think. I want to try to be more like a pony, anyways.”
Mala tilts his head, and a single ear flops halfway down
“Maybe I should... We only ever cooked meat to kill tapeworms and I think they would over cook it... but a few times frozen meat would be heated up and it tasted good... whatever you think. I want to try to be more like a pony, anyways.”
>>132547
"Peace isn't something I can make happen in the blink of an eye. I need a plan and the ability to talk to the right changelings."
"Peace isn't something I can make happen in the blink of an eye. I need a plan and the ability to talk to the right changelings."
>>132557
Silver pats Mala some more.
"It is your choice. If you want to try it cooked, I will try my best to make it tastiest meal you have ever had."
Silver pats Mala some more.
"It is your choice. If you want to try it cooked, I will try my best to make it tastiest meal you have ever had."
>>132562
"Sounds good. We will check there first."
Spark is excited to adventure with new friends, even if they are not as much.
"Sounds good. We will check there first."
Spark is excited to adventure with new friends, even if they are not as much.
>>132563
Waabishki pulls ahead. Maakade says something to another wolf, evidently signalling him to go somewhere, then he looks around following behind the two cautiously
[1d3 = 2]
Waabishki pulls ahead. Maakade says something to another wolf, evidently signalling him to go somewhere, then he looks around following behind the two cautiously
[1d3 = 2]
>>132562
Mala's reaction warms Silver's heart.
"I am going to take shower to get this mud and blood off of me. When I am done, would you want to go out with me to get things we need?"
Mala's reaction warms Silver's heart.
"I am going to take shower to get this mud and blood off of me. When I am done, would you want to go out with me to get things we need?"
>>132566
Silver smiles even wider before going up to take a shower. Once he's cleaned himself and he's back to his usual, fluffed self, he heads back down into the living room.
Silver smiles even wider before going up to take a shower. Once he's cleaned himself and he's back to his usual, fluffed self, he heads back down into the living room.
>>132567
And so, silver washes off blood, dirty water, sweat, dust, and little pieces of mummified flesh. All in all not the dirtiest he's been that week. The end result leaves him nice and fluffy. Silver returns to see Khoi and Jubilosa on the couches
And so, silver washes off blood, dirty water, sweat, dust, and little pieces of mummified flesh. All in all not the dirtiest he's been that week. The end result leaves him nice and fluffy. Silver returns to see Khoi and Jubilosa on the couches
>>132569
They walk into the forest, deeper. Sometimes brush obscures the passage, sometimes it is clear. The pine trees are tall and dense, but the morning sun shines through in most areas. Waabashki occassionally stops, looks through the canopy, or holds her nose to the ground and sniffs, before pointing and leading the way. Makade stays behind, to the side, or further ahead. He has a faster walking pace, and so quickly moves from point to point. He stops to look at tracks more than once, or will say something in the language of the wolves that gets Waabishki to stop, while he lays down, and looks through the scope of his rifle at something more distant. He also stops not long after their trip began to sit down, and howl lowdly into the sky. The howl is replied to by another wolf further north, and they continue on their way.
Eventually the pony and wolves come to a clearing with a lake that reflects the sky. Waabishki says to spark "here it is" Then with one of her long, untrimmed claws extending from the end of her paw, she point out what looks like a hill, or almost like a hill, on the other end of the lake, past the edge. "There is one of the places they left the dirt. One of many."
They walk into the forest, deeper. Sometimes brush obscures the passage, sometimes it is clear. The pine trees are tall and dense, but the morning sun shines through in most areas. Waabashki occassionally stops, looks through the canopy, or holds her nose to the ground and sniffs, before pointing and leading the way. Makade stays behind, to the side, or further ahead. He has a faster walking pace, and so quickly moves from point to point. He stops to look at tracks more than once, or will say something in the language of the wolves that gets Waabishki to stop, while he lays down, and looks through the scope of his rifle at something more distant. He also stops not long after their trip began to sit down, and howl lowdly into the sky. The howl is replied to by another wolf further north, and they continue on their way.
Eventually the pony and wolves come to a clearing with a lake that reflects the sky. Waabishki says to spark "here it is" Then with one of her long, untrimmed claws extending from the end of her paw, she point out what looks like a hill, or almost like a hill, on the other end of the lake, past the edge. "There is one of the places they left the dirt. One of many."
>>132572
Silver sits down in an empty couch seat.
"Did either of you do anything interesting while Mala and I were gone?"
Silver sits down in an empty couch seat.
"Did either of you do anything interesting while Mala and I were gone?"
>>132573
Jubilosa:
“Oh, walked around the beach. Walked around the town a little. Lovely neighborhood. Wish there were more griffins though. Trimmed my claws...”
Khoi:
“I started job as cook”
Jubilosa:
“Oh, walked around the beach. Walked around the town a little. Lovely neighborhood. Wish there were more griffins though. Trimmed my claws...”
Khoi:
“I started job as cook”
>>132574
To Jubilosa:
"It is first time I have lived in neighborhood since I was colt. I suppose I should do that as well sometime."
To Khoi:
"That is great! Where are you working at?"
To Jubilosa:
"It is first time I have lived in neighborhood since I was colt. I suppose I should do that as well sometime."
To Khoi:
"That is great! Where are you working at?"
>>132575
Makade
"I will maintain a vigil around the lake. This is great place to be attacked, whether by predators or by doubles"
Waabishki and spark go futher, towards the berms. Spark can see that they are in fact covered in grass
Waabishki
"The ponies covered these in soil after my father asked them too. Not before so much of them leached into the water. And they dumped more nearby afterwards anyways. But it is buried. It almost looks like one of our burial mounds; the perversion of it." She says, with a little disgust at the end of that
>>132576
Jubilosa:
"Oh yes. Much more tightly packed than where I grew up as a chick. But more closely nit than the city. If I were a pony they might even be friendly."
Khoi:
"A zebra restaurant, of all places. Further south, and in town."
Makade
"I will maintain a vigil around the lake. This is great place to be attacked, whether by predators or by doubles"
Waabishki and spark go futher, towards the berms. Spark can see that they are in fact covered in grass
Waabishki
"The ponies covered these in soil after my father asked them too. Not before so much of them leached into the water. And they dumped more nearby afterwards anyways. But it is buried. It almost looks like one of our burial mounds; the perversion of it." She says, with a little disgust at the end of that
>>132576
Jubilosa:
"Oh yes. Much more tightly packed than where I grew up as a chick. But more closely nit than the city. If I were a pony they might even be friendly."
Khoi:
"A zebra restaurant, of all places. Further south, and in town."
>>132577
To Jubilosa:
"I hope it is just that we are new arrivals. They would be depriving themselves of knowing wonderful person for foalish reasons if it was because you are griffon."
To Khoi:
"Really? Would zebra mare named Black Cauldron happen to work there as well?"
To Jubilosa:
"I hope it is just that we are new arrivals. They would be depriving themselves of knowing wonderful person for foalish reasons if it was because you are griffon."
To Khoi:
"Really? Would zebra mare named Black Cauldron happen to work there as well?"
>>132579
He smiles at Jubilosa.
"I hope they can see same beauty inside you that I see."
He turns and nods to Khoi.
"Yes, he introduced me to her as potion maker and seller. She is good person."
He smiles at Jubilosa.
"I hope they can see same beauty inside you that I see."
He turns and nods to Khoi.
"Yes, he introduced me to her as potion maker and seller. She is good person."
>>132580
Jubilosa blushes, moves her wings up so that they partly open out, and moves her head back somewhat, extending her neck
Khoi
"I hope to see that good side someday"
Jubilosa blushes, moves her wings up so that they partly open out, and moves her head back somewhat, extending her neck
Khoi
"I hope to see that good side someday"
>>132581
His smile gets a little wider and brighter at Jubilosa's reaction.
"I imagine you will once you get to know her. I only know little bit, but what I saw suggests she has good heart."
His smile gets a little wider and brighter at Jubilosa's reaction.
"I imagine you will once you get to know her. I only know little bit, but what I saw suggests she has good heart."
>>132585
When Silver sees this, he's not sure whether he should wake Mala up or let him sleep. He ultimately desides to give Mala a shake.
When Silver sees this, he's not sure whether he should wake Mala up or let him sleep. He ultimately desides to give Mala a shake.
>>132586
Okay. I hope we can play again soon
https://youtu.be/Mi57d50pCUw
>>132587
Mala is already up, evidently partly on his old, ragged blanket. Interestingly, Mala’s fur is fluffed up in a way that makes it look like he washed recently as well.
“Yes, Silver Sword?”
Okay. I hope we can play again soon
https://youtu.be/Mi57d50pCUw
>>132587
Mala is already up, evidently partly on his old, ragged blanket. Interestingly, Mala’s fur is fluffed up in a way that makes it look like he washed recently as well.
“Yes, Silver Sword?”
>>132590
Silver nods, and leads the way back into the common area. He waves the Khoi and Jubilosa.
"We are heading out again to get some shopping done. Do either of you need anything?"
Silver nods, and leads the way back into the common area. He waves the Khoi and Jubilosa.
"We are heading out again to get some shopping done. Do either of you need anything?"
>>132591
Khoi:
“Maybe some mane ties”
Jubilosa
“We don’t have a TV here. Do we need a TV? I don’t know. Maybe some more wine or alcohol. Well... I guess we are fine as we are.”
Khoi:
“Maybe some mane ties”
Jubilosa
“We don’t have a TV here. Do we need a TV? I don’t know. Maybe some more wine or alcohol. Well... I guess we are fine as we are.”
>>132592
Silver nods at both of their requests, silently wonders to himself "What is TV?", then heads out. He hooks himself up to his smaller cart, and heads first for a store where he can get saddlebags.
Silver nods at both of their requests, silently wonders to himself "What is TV?", then heads out. He hooks himself up to his smaller cart, and heads first for a store where he can get saddlebags.
>>132592
TV in this era was extremely uncommon particularly with wartime shortages and in our timeline didn't become common until the late 40's at the earliest (https://www.nyu.edu/classes/stephens/History%20of%20Television%20page.htm). Jubilosa asking this question is equivalent to a modern-day poor immigrant who just escaped human trafficking asking "Do we need a VR setup?"
TV in this era was extremely uncommon particularly with wartime shortages and in our timeline didn't become common until the late 40's at the earliest (https://www.nyu.edu/classes/stephens/History%20of%20Television%20page.htm). Jubilosa asking this question is equivalent to a modern-day poor immigrant who just escaped human trafficking asking "Do we need a VR setup?"
I hope we can continue tomorrow! Silver is so close to being set up and ready to move onto the next adventure.
>>132594
Jubilosa is asking about televisions and expensive alcohol because she is materialistic, hedonistic, looking forward an escape from negative emotions and generally thinks that she has a real chance at living the high life through means of a sugar daddy. Televisions have been described in rooms twice before. Once in the master bedroom apartment of Comte Burgher - a prominent politician living in a gated community, and in Maakie’s apartment in Hoebuck. That latter apartment and connected offices also included a full jacuzzi, a coat made out of the hide of a pony, a magically enchanted naval officer’s saber, a taxidermied manticore, a love potion and thousands in cash and diamond, and a slave. If a television is rare, unusual, or fantastical, it’s hardly the only fantastical or rare item in that apartment. The beachfront stilt house in Cherry Hill is a two story, prime location, three bedroom home that has a stuffed leopard, another taxidermied specimen of a then-extinct animal, a boat (admittedly basically just a stolen lifeboat), a phonograph, but not a television. Black Cauldron’s apartment, Blue Skies hotel room, the hotel room suite at Hotel Indigo, the cabin in the woods, and the ranch house Maakie was left in, all lack televisions. They are rare here. Yes, Jubilosa is basically asking for a VR-set after being rescued. She’s pushing her luck with her sugar daddy, and she’s pushing it so hard she retracts the question almost immediately after she asks it. That’s just who she is.
Jubilosa is asking about televisions and expensive alcohol because she is materialistic, hedonistic, looking forward an escape from negative emotions and generally thinks that she has a real chance at living the high life through means of a sugar daddy. Televisions have been described in rooms twice before. Once in the master bedroom apartment of Comte Burgher - a prominent politician living in a gated community, and in Maakie’s apartment in Hoebuck. That latter apartment and connected offices also included a full jacuzzi, a coat made out of the hide of a pony, a magically enchanted naval officer’s saber, a taxidermied manticore, a love potion and thousands in cash and diamond, and a slave. If a television is rare, unusual, or fantastical, it’s hardly the only fantastical or rare item in that apartment. The beachfront stilt house in Cherry Hill is a two story, prime location, three bedroom home that has a stuffed leopard, another taxidermied specimen of a then-extinct animal, a boat (admittedly basically just a stolen lifeboat), a phonograph, but not a television. Black Cauldron’s apartment, Blue Skies hotel room, the hotel room suite at Hotel Indigo, the cabin in the woods, and the ranch house Maakie was left in, all lack televisions. They are rare here. Yes, Jubilosa is basically asking for a VR-set after being rescued. She’s pushing her luck with her sugar daddy, and she’s pushing it so hard she retracts the question almost immediately after she asks it. That’s just who she is.
>>132631
Time slipped away from me again today. We will play again though. I really want to see what happens next.
Time slipped away from me again today. We will play again though. I really want to see what happens next.
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Are my little ponies still around?
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hopes to play soon
>>132658
The mounds are like small hills rising next to the lake. Maybe 20 feet tall, sometimes wider at the top, and two of them with a "valley" between. They are all covered in short, brown grass or especially snow. There are a couple saplings on some of them, but these are small.
The mounds are like small hills rising next to the lake. Maybe 20 feet tall, sometimes wider at the top, and two of them with a "valley" between. They are all covered in short, brown grass or especially snow. There are a couple saplings on some of them, but these are small.
>>132660
Some of the edges of the lake appear to have ice on them. The center of the lake does not seem to be covered in ice. It's kind of hard to see into the lake, but it is more opaque with the blue tint. It is approximately oval in shape, with the tailing berms on the southern end
Some of the edges of the lake appear to have ice on them. The center of the lake does not seem to be covered in ice. It's kind of hard to see into the lake, but it is more opaque with the blue tint. It is approximately oval in shape, with the tailing berms on the southern end
>>132661
Well... not exactly the clues I was hoping for. How do I progress from here? Seeing as saplings are growing, I think that can rule out radiation. Nothing else of note?
Well... not exactly the clues I was hoping for. How do I progress from here? Seeing as saplings are growing, I think that can rule out radiation. Nothing else of note?
>>132662
Waabishki:
"This is where they dumped it. Under the grass, the snow, the water and the ice. But it's there."
Waabishki:
"This is where they dumped it. Under the grass, the snow, the water and the ice. But it's there."
>>132657
Silver leaves his cart outside as he and Mala go inside the store.
"Let us get you some saddlebags, Mala."
Silver leaves his cart outside as he and Mala go inside the store.
"Let us get you some saddlebags, Mala."
>>132664
"It's a rock, Kindof like a crystal. Finely ground. It used to fog the water. Grey or yellow sometimes. The fish did not like it. The dust could be stirred into the air by the wind sometimes. It has settled now, I think. I hope. But it's there. Under the grass, and on the lake and river beds."
>>132665
"A saddle bag?"
Mala tilts his head
"Like what kind?"
"It's a rock, Kindof like a crystal. Finely ground. It used to fog the water. Grey or yellow sometimes. The fish did not like it. The dust could be stirred into the air by the wind sometimes. It has settled now, I think. I hope. But it's there. Under the grass, and on the lake and river beds."
>>132665
"A saddle bag?"
Mala tilts his head
"Like what kind?"
>>132666
"Whatever catches your eye, I suppose. Only requirement is that you can store items inside of it, and that it fits you."
"Whatever catches your eye, I suppose. Only requirement is that you can store items inside of it, and that it fits you."
>>132669
Mala looks around at the set of bags. Mostly a lighter color leather, they have them in many sizes. Mala looks around, puts his nose up to some of them, and even touches one.
"This one... has a few small pockets, and a big pouch, too."
>>132670
Spark finds the process of forming a magic shovel to evenly apply pressure a bit difficult, mostly based upon the consistent application of pressure across the magic field. Forming a "spear" to pierce through the grass is actually easier than thereafter moving large amounts of it.
Waabishki walks over, and holds up a paw to Spark. Her claws are long, black, and not particularly trimmed.
"Unlike Maakade, I don't cut back my claws."
She lowers her claws, and assumes a stance over an area. Then, she starts digging with her forepaws, throwing up grass and then dirt behind her. Once the grass is disturbed, the soil is easier for Spark to remove himself with his magic. There's a layer of essentially sand that is maybe a couple inches, before the ground becomes grey colored, or even yellow in some areas.
Mala looks around at the set of bags. Mostly a lighter color leather, they have them in many sizes. Mala looks around, puts his nose up to some of them, and even touches one.
"This one... has a few small pockets, and a big pouch, too."
>>132670
Spark finds the process of forming a magic shovel to evenly apply pressure a bit difficult, mostly based upon the consistent application of pressure across the magic field. Forming a "spear" to pierce through the grass is actually easier than thereafter moving large amounts of it.
Waabishki walks over, and holds up a paw to Spark. Her claws are long, black, and not particularly trimmed.
"Unlike Maakade, I don't cut back my claws."
She lowers her claws, and assumes a stance over an area. Then, she starts digging with her forepaws, throwing up grass and then dirt behind her. Once the grass is disturbed, the soil is easier for Spark to remove himself with his magic. There's a layer of essentially sand that is maybe a couple inches, before the ground becomes grey colored, or even yellow in some areas.
>>132672
It's many small crystalline rocks. Yellowish, brownish, or white in color. Sometimes it looks nearly fibrous, other times it looks similar to quartz.
It's many small crystalline rocks. Yellowish, brownish, or white in color. Sometimes it looks nearly fibrous, other times it looks similar to quartz.
>>132681
"Do you like to go dancing occasionally? I'm not sure where there's a good place to do it in town, but it's always a good way to meet ponies you haven't seen before."
"Do you like to go dancing occasionally? I'm not sure where there's a good place to do it in town, but it's always a good way to meet ponies you haven't seen before."
>>132681
"Perhaps we can take a sample of this stuff and show it to somepony. Maybe there is a know cure."
"Perhaps we can take a sample of this stuff and show it to somepony. Maybe there is a know cure."
>>132687
Amber's face lights up. "Would you be interested in going? I've never been to a dance hall before, but it sounds like a swell time."
Amber's face lights up. "Would you be interested in going? I've never been to a dance hall before, but it sounds like a swell time."
>>132689
Amber blushes red, looking to the side. "I don't know...I mean, maybe...I don't know anypony around and I feel like I need friends."
Amber blushes red, looking to the side. "I don't know...I mean, maybe...I don't know anypony around and I feel like I need friends."
>>132690
“Well, around here, dancing isn’t just for finding stallions, but it’s common enough that many ponies will assume that’s what you are trying to do. You can find friends in these places too, sometimes. That’s why I do the book club.”
“Well, around here, dancing isn’t just for finding stallions, but it’s common enough that many ponies will assume that’s what you are trying to do. You can find friends in these places too, sometimes. That’s why I do the book club.”
She smiles. "Thank you. I suppose I have a lot of options so I'll be trying different ones. Hopefully there's enough free time..."
>>132696
“I think...”
He opens one of the pockets, then another, then looks at the band between the two sides.
“I think it will do”
“I think...”
He opens one of the pockets, then another, then looks at the band between the two sides.
“I think it will do”
>>132695
Amber blinks in surprise. "Me? Oh, no, I'm not.
I'm sort of getting to the age where I need to think 'bout it, but…I hardly have met any stallion at all. I never gave it much thought..." She shifts uneasily on her hooves.
Amber blinks in surprise. "Me? Oh, no, I'm not.
I'm sort of getting to the age where I need to think 'bout it, but…I hardly have met any stallion at all. I never gave it much thought..." She shifts uneasily on her hooves.
>>132699
"I–I guess I thought knowing all this stuff would come automatically as I got older…or maybe my parents thought so.
In reality, it's…completely unexplored territory for me."
"I–I guess I thought knowing all this stuff would come automatically as I got older…or maybe my parents thought so.
In reality, it's…completely unexplored territory for me."
>>132697
Silver nods, and grabs one to purchase. He also looks for one for himself, something sturdy with lots of room.
Silver nods, and grabs one to purchase. He also looks for one for himself, something sturdy with lots of room.
>>132706
Mala walks on, at first cautiously, then more quickly. The two go over towards ab area with many sweaters (mostly wool). Mala takes interest, looking around
Mala walks on, at first cautiously, then more quickly. The two go over towards ab area with many sweaters (mostly wool). Mala takes interest, looking around
>>132703
She shakes her head slowly. "Where I'm from the parents would find a partner for you, that's how my sister got hitched."
My flag isn't totally irrelevant
She shakes her head slowly. "Where I'm from the parents would find a partner for you, that's how my sister got hitched."
My flag isn't totally irrelevant
>>132710
I’ve been wondering why you use the sane VPN proxy
She blinks
“Did they not find one for you?”
I’ve been wondering why you use the sane VPN proxy
She blinks
“Did they not find one for you?”
>>132711
Amber shakes her head again. "Everypony has been more concerned with just having enough food to eat, especially after last year's drought....That's actually why I'm here in Baltimare."
I use whatever works.
Amber shakes her head again. "Everypony has been more concerned with just having enough food to eat, especially after last year's drought....That's actually why I'm here in Baltimare."
I use whatever works.
>>132713
Mala looks over to Silver, and smiles
He pulls down one that is blue with silver bands at the bottom, and another that has a rainbow at the bottom of a largely maroon sweater
Mala looks over to Silver, and smiles
He pulls down one that is blue with silver bands at the bottom, and another that has a rainbow at the bottom of a largely maroon sweater
>>132714
Amber nods, her spirits suddenly dampened. "My father is…unable to work so my mother and I have been tending the farm. Last year rain came too late, and even then too little, so we had to make a choice…if I work here I can send enough bits back to help."
Amber nods, her spirits suddenly dampened. "My father is…unable to work so my mother and I have been tending the farm. Last year rain came too late, and even then too little, so we had to make a choice…if I work here I can send enough bits back to help."
>>132715
"Good choices. We can get you both if you so desire. That way you can choose what you want to wear."
"Good choices. We can get you both if you so desire. That way you can choose what you want to wear."
>>132718
Silver smiles at him.
"Unless you can think of anything else, I have everything I need to buy here."
Silver smiles at him.
"Unless you can think of anything else, I have everything I need to buy here."
>>132718
"I don't know yet. I'll probably go back at some point, but city life is so bright and…different I have to give this place a chance."
"I don't know yet. I'll probably go back at some point, but city life is so bright and…different I have to give this place a chance."
>>132719
Mala takes the sweaters and the bag, and wants to buy them
>>132720
"Well... I will tell you to be very careful with stallions. A good one can be a partner, a friend, and a father for the rest of your life. And a bad one... well, there are lots of ways a stallion can go very bad. It's the most important question you face at this stage of your life."
Mala takes the sweaters and the bag, and wants to buy them
>>132720
"Well... I will tell you to be very careful with stallions. A good one can be a partner, a friend, and a father for the rest of your life. And a bad one... well, there are lots of ways a stallion can go very bad. It's the most important question you face at this stage of your life."
>>132721
"And that reminds me..."
Silver pulls out the large wad of Bits they got from the Hoebuck job, counts out 1,200 worth of them, and gives them to Mala.
"There is your cut for job. Your very first payment as adventurer."
"And that reminds me..."
Silver pulls out the large wad of Bits they got from the Hoebuck job, counts out 1,200 worth of them, and gives them to Mala.
"There is your cut for job. Your very first payment as adventurer."
>>132727
Looking back, I don't think so
"Alright, follow me"
She takes Amber down a hall with marble floors, and towards a side opposite that of the music room they left. They enter a room with lower ceilings that is long and comparatively thin. The walls are white, with squares formed by lines of gilding, and inlaid with gilded relief impressions of floral patterns: roses and lilies, made of gold. Different colors, especially the red of copper, help to form a forest scene along the longer right wall. Art hangs from parts of the walls. A few portraits, and a few scenes like manticore hunts. Judging by the realism based style the paintings may be slightly older than the house itself. A few small tables near the walls host candelabras, empty bowls, or small clocks. And there in the center is a very long wooded table, ornate enough to be at home in a palace, but long and practical enough to be serve an old Olenian mead hall. The table is lined with place mats, forks and spoons gilded at the ends, and white porcelain plates with patterns engraved on the edges.
"Here is the dining room"
Looking back, I don't think so
"Alright, follow me"
She takes Amber down a hall with marble floors, and towards a side opposite that of the music room they left. They enter a room with lower ceilings that is long and comparatively thin. The walls are white, with squares formed by lines of gilding, and inlaid with gilded relief impressions of floral patterns: roses and lilies, made of gold. Different colors, especially the red of copper, help to form a forest scene along the longer right wall. Art hangs from parts of the walls. A few portraits, and a few scenes like manticore hunts. Judging by the realism based style the paintings may be slightly older than the house itself. A few small tables near the walls host candelabras, empty bowls, or small clocks. And there in the center is a very long wooded table, ornate enough to be at home in a palace, but long and practical enough to be serve an old Olenian mead hall. The table is lined with place mats, forks and spoons gilded at the ends, and white porcelain plates with patterns engraved on the edges.
"Here is the dining room"
>>132728
Amber is wordless at such an ornate and opulent display. She stares at the colossal table with all its implements and decorations.
Amber is wordless at such an ornate and opulent display. She stares at the colossal table with all its implements and decorations.
The wood has a reddish hue and retains its natural color, mostly, u see the lacquer. It seems to be thicker in the center than at the edges, with a kind of inverted parabolic shape under the table. There are three candle fixtures on top of the table, with the one at the very center being the most ornate. It’s three brass pieces next to each other, varying in height in a manner similar to the tall sails skyscraper: the one in the center is tallest, and each on the side has a different height.
>>132730
"I could never imagine eating in a place like this.
Just being here makes you feel like you're on display, not the food."
"I could never imagine eating in a place like this.
Just being here makes you feel like you're on display, not the food."
>>132731
“Well, when you’re a socialite, or the head of a large international shipping company, you kind of are.”
“Well, when you’re a socialite, or the head of a large international shipping company, you kind of are.”
>>132732
She frowns. "I guess I will never understand that kind of life..." Looking around, Amber asks, "Did they play music during meals?"
She frowns. "I guess I will never understand that kind of life..." Looking around, Amber asks, "Did they play music during meals?"
>>132733
“The room isn’t really optimal for that, like the last room. But if you wanted a violinist or even a small band to play during dinner, you certainly can. There were a couple owners who would do that at least some of the time.“
“The room isn’t really optimal for that, like the last room. But if you wanted a violinist or even a small band to play during dinner, you certainly can. There were a couple owners who would do that at least some of the time.“
Alright, I have to go to sleep now (even though we basically just started playing)
>>132724
Silver smiles back.
"You did plenty. You joined us near very beginning of job, you served as our guide and helped us to find various secrets we otherwise would not have, you jumped right into combat alongside us, and you even saved my life in that final room when we were attacked by those shadow dogs. You deserve cut of reward like any of rest of us."
Silver smiles back.
"You did plenty. You joined us near very beginning of job, you served as our guide and helped us to find various secrets we otherwise would not have, you jumped right into combat alongside us, and you even saved my life in that final room when we were attacked by those shadow dogs. You deserve cut of reward like any of rest of us."
Maybe tomorrow we can continue the adventure in Shimmering Spark and the Kingdom of the Crystal Powder. Though maybe saying I am the adventurous professor is a bit of an oversell seeing how I rolled for Int there...
>>132734
"I guess you're right…the room IS an art gallery.
I can't imagine the attention that went into making it so magnificent." She turns to the nearest painting on the wall.
"I guess you're right…the room IS an art gallery.
I can't imagine the attention that went into making it so magnificent." She turns to the nearest painting on the wall.
>>132750
The painting has a unicorn stallion in the attire of some yesteryear wearing a hat with a feather in it, looking at the viewer with a single wooden table behind him. The background fades into shadows and dark greys, placing all the attention on the unicorn, who must have been a noble in an earlier era.
"What you're looking at is a painting by Hammerswoon Ridge, probably around about 670. Tail Sails himself acquired it and placed it here when he built the house. But the decorated walls and impressions came later, about 50 years later, and were installed by Full Sails."
The painting has a unicorn stallion in the attire of some yesteryear wearing a hat with a feather in it, looking at the viewer with a single wooden table behind him. The background fades into shadows and dark greys, placing all the attention on the unicorn, who must have been a noble in an earlier era.
"What you're looking at is a painting by Hammerswoon Ridge, probably around about 670. Tail Sails himself acquired it and placed it here when he built the house. But the decorated walls and impressions came later, about 50 years later, and were installed by Full Sails."
>>132751
Amber stares at the painting curiously. "The whole family must've had a deep appreciation for art if they've acquired so many old and priceless works."
Amber stares at the painting curiously. "The whole family must've had a deep appreciation for art if they've acquired so many old and priceless works."
>>132761
“Well, it varied from pony to pony. Tall Sails himself had a definite appreciate for art, though his son couldn’t care less. Silver Seashore even contributed a collection to the Baltimare museum... but Delicate Decor, the wife of Full Sails, expanded the art collection the most... though many of those works ended up in Silver Seashore’s donated collection. Even when members of the family didn’t understand painting techniques or have a taste for them, they understood and appreciated the status patronage of the arts brings with it.”
“Well, it varied from pony to pony. Tall Sails himself had a definite appreciate for art, though his son couldn’t care less. Silver Seashore even contributed a collection to the Baltimare museum... but Delicate Decor, the wife of Full Sails, expanded the art collection the most... though many of those works ended up in Silver Seashore’s donated collection. Even when members of the family didn’t understand painting techniques or have a taste for them, they understood and appreciated the status patronage of the arts brings with it.”
>>132684
The only thing is, I don't know what to do next. Would there be a hospital in the town?
"Now I just have to find a pony healer..."
The only thing is, I don't know what to do next. Would there be a hospital in the town?
"Now I just have to find a pony healer..."
I can play today, woohoo!
>>132762
"It sounds like everypony felt like he had an obligation to be highfalutin with the amount of money the family had, as if to make up for the lack of a landed title." She mulls this over. "But was this something they thought of themselves or did the company they keep expect them to be this way?"
>>132762
"It sounds like everypony felt like he had an obligation to be highfalutin with the amount of money the family had, as if to make up for the lack of a landed title." She mulls this over. "But was this something they thought of themselves or did the company they keep expect them to be this way?"
>>132773
Well, if Spark wants to find a pony healer he can certainly try. Or he can see what else the wolves want.
>>132774
She is silent for a moment, and blinks
“Yeah... that sounds about right. And whether it was their idea or someone else’s... well, I suppose when you are new money, there’s a certain stand you are expected to keep to, if you want to be considered the equal of a minor noble.”
Well, if Spark wants to find a pony healer he can certainly try. Or he can see what else the wolves want.
>>132774
She is silent for a moment, and blinks
“Yeah... that sounds about right. And whether it was their idea or someone else’s... well, I suppose when you are new money, there’s a certain stand you are expected to keep to, if you want to be considered the equal of a minor noble.”
>>132776
Amber still looks perplexed about something, so she only nods as she wordlessly looks at the next work of art.
Amber still looks perplexed about something, so she only nods as she wordlessly looks at the next work of art.
>>132777
>trips
I suppose that takes care of the need for a dice roll.
Looking around town, Spark can see a small building labeled as a clinic. There is a desk at the front, with room for a receptionist, but there is no receptionist. There is a white door over to the right. Entering into the small building - wooden floors, a table and a pair of couches for what must be a combined reception area and waiting room - the door is unlocked.
>>132778
The next scene is.... well, running over to the left is a running steam. You can call it a river if you’re being generous. To the right is a pair of stallions running over to the left and further away from the viewer. A forest covers all, denser and darker in shade on the left, brighter and less dense on the right, with the ponies evidently coming from a grassy clearing. Into the buses and forest on the left, dives a red fox, whose orange and red coat contrasts against the light and dark shades of green the dominate the painting. The two stallions - both are naked, for whatever that’s worth - are white and yellow, standing out against the bright grass, as they chase the fix deeper into the forest
>trips
I suppose that takes care of the need for a dice roll.
Looking around town, Spark can see a small building labeled as a clinic. There is a desk at the front, with room for a receptionist, but there is no receptionist. There is a white door over to the right. Entering into the small building - wooden floors, a table and a pair of couches for what must be a combined reception area and waiting room - the door is unlocked.
>>132778
The next scene is.... well, running over to the left is a running steam. You can call it a river if you’re being generous. To the right is a pair of stallions running over to the left and further away from the viewer. A forest covers all, denser and darker in shade on the left, brighter and less dense on the right, with the ponies evidently coming from a grassy clearing. Into the buses and forest on the left, dives a red fox, whose orange and red coat contrasts against the light and dark shades of green the dominate the painting. The two stallions - both are naked, for whatever that’s worth - are white and yellow, standing out against the bright grass, as they chase the fix deeper into the forest
>>132779
Amber seems delighted by this latest work as she takes it in. "I like this one even if it's not as historically important.
Why are the stallions running after the fox?"
Amber seems delighted by this latest work as she takes it in. "I like this one even if it's not as historically important.
Why are the stallions running after the fox?"
>>132780
“Well, the first suggestion would be that they are hunting the fox. But that doesn’t really fit, as they aren’t wearing saddle bags are traditional clothing, and there are no dogs. It’s more likely the subjects are commoners, not dressed as nobles. Maybe they want to imitate a noble’s fox hunt? Maybe they have some gevuance against the fox? Maybe it’s just play, to imitate youth? Any which way, it’s leading them from the light of the clearing into the darkness of the forest undergrowth.”
“Well, the first suggestion would be that they are hunting the fox. But that doesn’t really fit, as they aren’t wearing saddle bags are traditional clothing, and there are no dogs. It’s more likely the subjects are commoners, not dressed as nobles. Maybe they want to imitate a noble’s fox hunt? Maybe they have some gevuance against the fox? Maybe it’s just play, to imitate youth? Any which way, it’s leading them from the light of the clearing into the darkness of the forest undergrowth.”
>>132782
No immediate response or reaction. There is no receptionist. The room is heated above the outdoor temperature.
No immediate response or reaction. There is no receptionist. The room is heated above the outdoor temperature.
>>132781
"...I think I'll go with the last one. This had to be painted somewhere in Equestria, but I don't have a clue if it was near Baltimare."
"...I think I'll go with the last one. This had to be painted somewhere in Equestria, but I don't have a clue if it was near Baltimare."
>>132786
Amber looks at the guide with some surprise. "That far away? The family must have been searching all across Equestria for art to collect."
Amber looks at the guide with some surprise. "That far away? The family must have been searching all across Equestria for art to collect."
>>132787
“Canterlot was the cultural heart of Equestria back then. More than it is now. Artists from all around Equestria would go there and live there. Or at least, when they sold their art, of often ended up there. This piece was purchased by Silver Shores, either himself while on a trip, or by a specially hired art dealer who went to Canterlot.”
“Canterlot was the cultural heart of Equestria back then. More than it is now. Artists from all around Equestria would go there and live there. Or at least, when they sold their art, of often ended up there. This piece was purchased by Silver Shores, either himself while on a trip, or by a specially hired art dealer who went to Canterlot.”
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>>132788
"It's the same as it was for music, then." Amber turns and walks back to the lavishly decorated table which looks ready for a candlelight supper. "What kind of food did they eat when they had company over?"
"It's the same as it was for music, then." Amber turns and walks back to the lavishly decorated table which looks ready for a candlelight supper. "What kind of food did they eat when they had company over?"
>>132789
The white door in the back vibrates, as if a door deeper inside has been closed
>>132790
“Oh, well that could vary over the years. It depended on the company, and the pony. But of course you could expect fruits that were harder to come by in those days, gourmet pastries, marked barely, chocolate and spices. They had at least one chef on staff at all times.”
The white door in the back vibrates, as if a door deeper inside has been closed
>>132790
“Oh, well that could vary over the years. It depended on the company, and the pony. But of course you could expect fruits that were harder to come by in those days, gourmet pastries, marked barely, chocolate and spices. They had at least one chef on staff at all times.”
>>132791
"I can't imagine how nice it must be to enjoy such delicious food and never have to cook any of it yourself."
"I can't imagine how nice it must be to enjoy such delicious food and never have to cook any of it yourself."
>>132793
“Heh. Neither can I. Unless you can go to one of those fancier restaurants. Not like a diner, but one of the ones you have to make reservations for.”
“Heh. Neither can I. Unless you can go to one of those fancier restaurants. Not like a diner, but one of the ones you have to make reservations for.”
>>132794
"I've only read those in books as a backdrop for scenes, like when a countessa meets somepony important.
I've never actually been in a restaurant like that…though it sounds nice."
"I've only read those in books as a backdrop for scenes, like when a countessa meets somepony important.
I've never actually been in a restaurant like that…though it sounds nice."
>>132798
"I keep forgetting that this house is still very lived in.
It all feels frozen in time, like the museums in Canterlot. You must know the family personally, then."
"I keep forgetting that this house is still very lived in.
It all feels frozen in time, like the museums in Canterlot. You must know the family personally, then."
>>132799
“Mostly they live in another location west of town that’s a little more modern and a little smaller. I do know them, yes. I’ve seen and talked to Strong Winds junior fairly often, and his daughter, Even Keel.”
“Mostly they live in another location west of town that’s a little more modern and a little smaller. I do know them, yes. I’ve seen and talked to Strong Winds junior fairly often, and his daughter, Even Keel.”
>>132802
"I've heard so much about their family that it would be nice to maybe meet them sometime. But it's a bit silly to say that, I'm just a farm filly after all."
"I've heard so much about their family that it would be nice to maybe meet them sometime. But it's a bit silly to say that, I'm just a farm filly after all."
>>132803
“Who knows. They make fairly public appearances sometimes. I think they’ve been trying to stay out of the limelight with many of the recent... changes. But Even Keel has tried to lead projects like cleaning up the bay.”
“Who knows. They make fairly public appearances sometimes. I think they’ve been trying to stay out of the limelight with many of the recent... changes. But Even Keel has tried to lead projects like cleaning up the bay.”
>>132804
Amber nods. "Charity looks to run in the family. They're phil...phil...what's the term again?"
Amber nods. "Charity looks to run in the family. They're phil...phil...what's the term again?"
>>132805
"Philanthropists. Or they try to be. The family has picked up charity work, especially under Strong Winds II. I think he's most concerned about the political climate. But he's helped especially to provide temporary housing for those who have lost homes to the war, or even to personal catastrophes like fires."
"Philanthropists. Or they try to be. The family has picked up charity work, especially under Strong Winds II. I think he's most concerned about the political climate. But he's helped especially to provide temporary housing for those who have lost homes to the war, or even to personal catastrophes like fires."
>>132806
"I think we're all concerned...it's just nice that ponies are looking out for each other, even now." Amber looks around the room in case there is anything else of especial interest.
"I think we're all concerned...it's just nice that ponies are looking out for each other, even now." Amber looks around the room in case there is anything else of especial interest.
>>132807
A vase whose reflectivity and patterns of colored spots look more like marble than porcelin. Another vase imitating - or perhaps actually being - an amphora of Nimbusian origin. a couple more paintings. She's still standing there in front of Amber
"At least there is some good in the current situation" she responds
A vase whose reflectivity and patterns of colored spots look more like marble than porcelin. Another vase imitating - or perhaps actually being - an amphora of Nimbusian origin. a couple more paintings. She's still standing there in front of Amber
"At least there is some good in the current situation" she responds
>>132808
Amber trots on over to where the unusual vases are on display. "I've never seen anything quite like these!" she exclaims.
Amber trots on over to where the unusual vases are on display. "I've never seen anything quite like these!" she exclaims.
>>132809
“Oh. Yes. That one is of foreign make, I think. The other is a more modern design from a studio in Fillydelphia.”
“Oh. Yes. That one is of foreign make, I think. The other is a more modern design from a studio in Fillydelphia.”
>>132810
"I really know nothing about pottery. What other wonders are in this house?" Amber grins eagerly.
"I really know nothing about pottery. What other wonders are in this house?" Amber grins eagerly.
>>132811
"Well, there are a few original edition books, a special chest set, a couple suits of armor, old naval clocks... you've seen some of the paintings, and the antique grand piano already..."
"Well, there are a few original edition books, a special chest set, a couple suits of armor, old naval clocks... you've seen some of the paintings, and the antique grand piano already..."
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>>132817
"They have a few, mostly in halls on the second floor. They're mostly of Equestrian origin."
"They have a few, mostly in halls on the second floor. They're mostly of Equestrian origin."
>>132818
"May I see them? I've read of so many great paladins ponydins who brought justice to the land, but to see what they actually wore is another thing."
"May I see them? I've read of so many great paladins ponydins who brought justice to the land, but to see what they actually wore is another thing."
>>132821
She starts off, out of the room, down the hallway, and over to a staircase on the right. The landing of the staircase is marble, as are the stairs themselves; indeed the staircase doesn't seem like it would be out of place in more public building. The staircase meets a landing and turns in on itself, with a painting of a white beagle with a big red spot off to the side, and a singular vase. Going up the stairs and into the hallway, at the far end is a window, and there are a couple tables. But going further down the mostly tile-floored hallway, Amber sees the first set. It's a silver-ish colored set in a display case next to the wall, looking more or less like what she expects the armor of the Royal Guard to look like
She starts off, out of the room, down the hallway, and over to a staircase on the right. The landing of the staircase is marble, as are the stairs themselves; indeed the staircase doesn't seem like it would be out of place in more public building. The staircase meets a landing and turns in on itself, with a painting of a white beagle with a big red spot off to the side, and a singular vase. Going up the stairs and into the hallway, at the far end is a window, and there are a couple tables. But going further down the mostly tile-floored hallway, Amber sees the first set. It's a silver-ish colored set in a display case next to the wall, looking more or less like what she expects the armor of the Royal Guard to look like
Amber carefully trots up the glistening, cold marble stair. The painting with the dog catches her eye but she continues to follow her guide, sticking to the middle of the hall lest she bump into or disturb something. Amber slowly approaches the argent armor, taking key notice of its features and trying to remember how the armor of the Royal Guards looked when she saw them in person.
>>132823
It's a set of armor for the back, the neck, and the helmet, held up by rods. The main set is a lamallar semi-plate, held together in a way that lets the user move under it. The belly is not protected, but the back and neck are, and the helmet protects the top of the muzzle and head, if not the chin. The helmet has an opening in the back to channel the mane upwards, and the armor has holes for wings to fit through, if only barely
It's a set of armor for the back, the neck, and the helmet, held up by rods. The main set is a lamallar semi-plate, held together in a way that lets the user move under it. The belly is not protected, but the back and neck are, and the helmet protects the top of the muzzle and head, if not the chin. The helmet has an opening in the back to channel the mane upwards, and the armor has holes for wings to fit through, if only barely
>>132826
The image of this prim old mare in a set of armor suddenly pops into Amber's mind and she can't help but bust out laughing. When she calms down a bit, she quickly apologizes, "I'm…I'm sorry, I just realized how silly my question must have sounded."
The image of this prim old mare in a set of armor suddenly pops into Amber's mind and she can't help but bust out laughing. When she calms down a bit, she quickly apologizes, "I'm…I'm sorry, I just realized how silly my question must have sounded."
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>>132827
Putting a mare in armor - or at least, a relatively small one like her - would be like putting a kid in a cage. Who would do that?
She smiles
“No worries”
Also, she’s supposed to be pretty young, not more than a decade older than Amber
Putting a mare in armor - or at least, a relatively small one like her - would be like putting a kid in a cage. Who would do that?
She smiles
“No worries”
Also, she’s supposed to be pretty young, not more than a decade older than Amber
>>132828
We've been in the house so long I've forgotten a lot of key details. I'm going to have to go back and note all this down.
"It just occurred to me we've toured this entire house and haven't been properly introduced. I'm Amber Sunset, I'm from west of here." She smiles and extends a hoof.
We've been in the house so long I've forgotten a lot of key details. I'm going to have to go back and note all this down.
"It just occurred to me we've toured this entire house and haven't been properly introduced. I'm Amber Sunset, I'm from west of here." She smiles and extends a hoof.
>>132829
She pulls her lips back in an awkward smile,
“I don’t suppose we have. My name is Wispy Withers.”
She extends a hoof
She pulls her lips back in an awkward smile,
“I don’t suppose we have. My name is Wispy Withers.”
She extends a hoof
>>132830
Then they both shake hooves in the way ponies do it.
"I like that name, it just rolls off the tongue." Amber continues and asks, "How did you decide to work here and how did you get chosen? I bet a lot of ponies applied for this."
Then they both shake hooves in the way ponies do it.
"I like that name, it just rolls off the tongue." Amber continues and asks, "How did you decide to work here and how did you get chosen? I bet a lot of ponies applied for this."
>>132831
She shakes hooves. Her shake is fairly weak, slow, and lasts a while.
“I was a maid at a few private homes, and went to work as a cleaning lady at the current office building of Tall Sails in downtown. I saw several of the family members while working there, and several members of the board of directors as well. One day after a meeting Wave Breaker, the son of Strong Winds, talked to me for a while. Sometime after that, they hired me on in their private residence, especially after I told them about my experience as a caretaker of a large townhouse in the riots. When they moved out of the waterfront, they trained me as a guide or curator of sorts, so I took in that role as well. It was rather natural for me, since I like history and all.”
She shakes hooves. Her shake is fairly weak, slow, and lasts a while.
“I was a maid at a few private homes, and went to work as a cleaning lady at the current office building of Tall Sails in downtown. I saw several of the family members while working there, and several members of the board of directors as well. One day after a meeting Wave Breaker, the son of Strong Winds, talked to me for a while. Sometime after that, they hired me on in their private residence, especially after I told them about my experience as a caretaker of a large townhouse in the riots. When they moved out of the waterfront, they trained me as a guide or curator of sorts, so I took in that role as well. It was rather natural for me, since I like history and all.”
"That was very lucky, but working similar jobs sure did help. Rather nice of them to hire you on as well. Do you think I should apply to be a maid too?" she asks curiously.
>>132833
She smiles, and moves her head down
"Heh, you can. If not with this family, then with another in Baltimare. They might like how young you are."
She smiles, and moves her head down
"Heh, you can. If not with this family, then with another in Baltimare. They might like how young you are."
Amber seems perplexed by this. "I'm not sure why that would be advantageous at all, I'd think that an older mare would be better experienced and could handle responsibilities better, or at least other ponies would think so."
>>132835
She smiles
"Maybe it wouldn't be. If it's a mare leading the household, or at least who has most say in the hiring, they may want an older mare."
She smiles
"Maybe it wouldn't be. If it's a mare leading the household, or at least who has most say in the hiring, they may want an older mare."
>>132836
Amber's confusion only grows. "Well, if you say so. Say, how much does being a maid earn?
I've already got a job as a store clerk, but I agreed without looking at all my options…not that I want to let down the kind old mare who hired me, but what happened with you sounds really nice." She balances the tip of one forehoof on the tiled floor, looking a bit nervous.
Amber's confusion only grows. "Well, if you say so. Say, how much does being a maid earn?
I've already got a job as a store clerk, but I agreed without looking at all my options…not that I want to let down the kind old mare who hired me, but what happened with you sounds really nice." She balances the tip of one forehoof on the tiled floor, looking a bit nervous.
>>132837
"Well uh... I'm at 18 an hour, and sometimes more when working extra hours. But that isn't from being a maid, that's from giving guided tours and keeping the house in order. Actually working as just a maid is perhaps half of that."
"Well uh... I'm at 18 an hour, and sometimes more when working extra hours. But that isn't from being a maid, that's from giving guided tours and keeping the house in order. Actually working as just a maid is perhaps half of that."
>>132838
Amber knits her brow in thought for just a moment then her eyes light up in surprise. "That's still almost twice as much as my current job! Do you know who I should ask about a job, do you know anyone hiring a maid, do you know what I need to know for it, do you know how I should present myself, do you know…" Questions keep tumbling out of her mouth.
Amber knits her brow in thought for just a moment then her eyes light up in surprise. "That's still almost twice as much as my current job! Do you know who I should ask about a job, do you know anyone hiring a maid, do you know what I need to know for it, do you know how I should present myself, do you know…" Questions keep tumbling out of her mouth.
>>132839
"In your position? You can just ask a family if they are looking to hire a housekeeper with no experience."
"In your position? You can just ask a family if they are looking to hire a housekeeper with no experience."
>>132840
Frowning, she replies, "But I don't know anypony here. Even if I knocked on ponies' doors and asked, I don't know where to start."
Frowning, she replies, "But I don't know anypony here. Even if I knocked on ponies' doors and asked, I don't know where to start."
>>132841
"You can also apply to work in an office building, or certain apartment buildings as a cleaner. I started just working for families I knew."
"You can also apply to work in an office building, or certain apartment buildings as a cleaner. I started just working for families I knew."
Amber looks slightly disappointed but nods. "I'd rather not, even in storybooks cleaners of big buildings don't get to strike a conversation. I think I'll stay with my current job for now and maybe once I get to know some other ponies I can weigh my options." She gently smiles and continues, "Thank you for the advice, Ms. Withers."
"Well, I'm glad you let me know of these opportunities. I hope you don't mind, but there's still so much of the city to see and I have time for at least one other big attraction." If Wispy Wither starts heading back to the house entrance Amber will follow.
>>132845
“Thank you for coming by. I hope you enjoyed this little bit of Baltimare history.” She says, and takes Amber towards the door.
“Thank you for coming by. I hope you enjoyed this little bit of Baltimare history.” She says, and takes Amber towards the door.
>>132846
"I loved it! Thank you again for sharing such wonderful history. I'll remember this tour for the rest of my life!"
"I loved it! Thank you again for sharing such wonderful history. I'll remember this tour for the rest of my life!"
>>132847
She gives a big grin
“You’re very welcome feel free to come back any time to see the bedrooms and other parts.”
She gives a big grin
“You’re very welcome feel free to come back any time to see the bedrooms and other parts.”
>>132848
"Oh, I will!" Amber says with a grin and wave before heading off.
She remembers that there's a fort a ways up the coast and decides to trot over there, if she can remember the way.
"Oh, I will!" Amber says with a grin and wave before heading off.
She remembers that there's a fort a ways up the coast and decides to trot over there, if she can remember the way.
>>132849
While she doesn’t know precisely where it is located, she has seen it. It’s in the harbor, a little south of the main part of the bay, on a small, low lying peninsula that juts out into the bay
While she doesn’t know precisely where it is located, she has seen it. It’s in the harbor, a little south of the main part of the bay, on a small, low lying peninsula that juts out into the bay
>>132850
She heads in the general direction until she's in the approximate locale, then. Does anything happen on the way?
She heads in the general direction until she's in the approximate locale, then. Does anything happen on the way?
>>132861
Hello
>>132853
Without having any actual idea where the fortress is located, Amber can tell that all she has to do is to walk south along the water. And do she does, passing warehouses, townhouses, shops, a large sectioned off brick building, and other assorted buildings. When the waterline becomes further away, Amber may walk down a road diagonal to her left, taking her past quaint apartments with shops on the lower level, past a school house and a clock tower. The road merged to another, and with another left turn, Amber knows she is going East, into the bay. On either side are shops, often nicer than the ones she has passed so far, before the left side is dominated by large buildings. First they are soft, white walled buildings approachable from the street, but then they are brick, and sectioned off by walls. It’s past this that Amber gets her first glimpse of what can only be a gunpowder age fortress - a large, concrete or stone fortress with large, triangular sections jutting our from a center in pattern.
Hello
>>132853
Without having any actual idea where the fortress is located, Amber can tell that all she has to do is to walk south along the water. And do she does, passing warehouses, townhouses, shops, a large sectioned off brick building, and other assorted buildings. When the waterline becomes further away, Amber may walk down a road diagonal to her left, taking her past quaint apartments with shops on the lower level, past a school house and a clock tower. The road merged to another, and with another left turn, Amber knows she is going East, into the bay. On either side are shops, often nicer than the ones she has passed so far, before the left side is dominated by large buildings. First they are soft, white walled buildings approachable from the street, but then they are brick, and sectioned off by walls. It’s past this that Amber gets her first glimpse of what can only be a gunpowder age fortress - a large, concrete or stone fortress with large, triangular sections jutting our from a center in pattern.
>>132862
I hope I know how to get back...
She's pleased by the pleasant aesthetic of the waterline but the large, harsh fortress is jarring, as things of war tend to be. Nonetheless, there is history in those wars and she trots forward, determined to find an entrance.
I hope I know how to get back...
She's pleased by the pleasant aesthetic of the waterline but the large, harsh fortress is jarring, as things of war tend to be. Nonetheless, there is history in those wars and she trots forward, determined to find an entrance.
>>132863
As Amber comes closer, she can notice a few things about the fort. The first is that the fort is located on an area of land that is lower, and closer to the water than everywhere else Amber has been. The second thing is the fortress is some sort of geometric shape, with squares jutting out from a central pentagonal (perhaps hexagonal?) shape. The shape continues outwards from the fort itself, with the land around the fort extending 50 or so feet and possessing the same shape, with concrete on the waterline. The walls of the fortress, which begin at an elevation below that of the town and only a few feet above the water, are angular, sloped stone, perhaps only 35 feet at the tallest. In the center of the fortress, Amber can see a flag flying atop a flag pole, admittedly not one she is familiar with.
As Amber comes closer, she can notice a few things about the fort. The first is that the fort is located on an area of land that is lower, and closer to the water than everywhere else Amber has been. The second thing is the fortress is some sort of geometric shape, with squares jutting out from a central pentagonal (perhaps hexagonal?) shape. The shape continues outwards from the fort itself, with the land around the fort extending 50 or so feet and possessing the same shape, with concrete on the waterline. The walls of the fortress, which begin at an elevation below that of the town and only a few feet above the water, are angular, sloped stone, perhaps only 35 feet at the tallest. In the center of the fortress, Amber can see a flag flying atop a flag pole, admittedly not one she is familiar with.
File (): 9A1689816BCD15673C40412C0262A91E-287494.jpg (280.8 KB, 1600x920, SZ8F5IO.jpg)
"What an odd place, it looks easy to lose your bearings with all these sharp angles…" she mutters to herself.
Amber goes through the iron door and looks around as best she can.
Amber goes through the iron door and looks around as best she can.
>>132867
Entering through the door, and Amber can see that the door seems to be cut through the stone, Amber sees a square shaped building of perhaps two stories in the center. The building is the same dull grey as the remainder of the fort, with a flag pole above it, and a few windows. On each side of the geometric walls, rooms and other structures are built into it, with flat roofs on top and a series of arches hanging over the entrances. Further away on one such roof top, is a railed off section and an instrument of war that looks a little out of place. There are several ponies around.
Entering through the door, and Amber can see that the door seems to be cut through the stone, Amber sees a square shaped building of perhaps two stories in the center. The building is the same dull grey as the remainder of the fort, with a flag pole above it, and a few windows. On each side of the geometric walls, rooms and other structures are built into it, with flat roofs on top and a series of arches hanging over the entrances. Further away on one such roof top, is a railed off section and an instrument of war that looks a little out of place. There are several ponies around.
>>132871
The pony is a black stallion, he answers:
"Oh this is Fort Flash Prance. They just opened it back up a couple weeks ago."
The pony is a black stallion, he answers:
"Oh this is Fort Flash Prance. They just opened it back up a couple weeks ago."
>>132873
"No," he answers "I mean they are letting the public back in after it was closed for a year."
"No," he answers "I mean they are letting the public back in after it was closed for a year."
>>132874
"Oh, I see. May I have a look around?"
I promise this will be a shorter tour than the one of the house
"Oh, I see. May I have a look around?"
I promise this will be a shorter tour than the one of the house
>>132875
Eh, what's been keeping me has been laziness and spending nights going out.
"Oh, uh, you can try. I'm actually here with my foals"
Eh, what's been keeping me has been laziness and spending nights going out.
"Oh, uh, you can try. I'm actually here with my foals"
>>132877
"Uh, I guess look around. There are several things here, like old cannons or the weapons collection, or the old barracks"
"Uh, I guess look around. There are several things here, like old cannons or the weapons collection, or the old barracks"
>>132879
The building in the center, as well as rooms attached to the walls on the far side, are larger than normal
The building in the center, as well as rooms attached to the walls on the far side, are larger than normal
>>132881
A small hallway that opens to several more doors, including a display case in one and beds in another. There is an old stallion in a full green uniform, with a beige cap. He stands up straight, wrinkled and old, with a hind leg that seems to be supported with a metal splint
A small hallway that opens to several more doors, including a display case in one and beds in another. There is an old stallion in a full green uniform, with a beige cap. He stands up straight, wrinkled and old, with a hind leg that seems to be supported with a metal splint
>>132882
He looks almost like a statue. And is his hat supposed to be mismatched? She deferentially approaches the venerable veteran and asks, "Hello, sir, do you work here?"
He looks almost like a statue. And is his hat supposed to be mismatched? She deferentially approaches the venerable veteran and asks, "Hello, sir, do you work here?"
>>132885
"A little bit about it? Ma'am, there are hundreds of years of history in these walls. This is Fort Flash Prance. A bastion or "star" fort built as Fort Flash Magnus under Governor Hoebuck to secure the outlet of the Delamare River into Horseshoe Bay, it's the location of Flash Prance's Last Stand against the Dragon Horde, and was bombarded by Griffons and Corsairs, among other history."
"A little bit about it? Ma'am, there are hundreds of years of history in these walls. This is Fort Flash Prance. A bastion or "star" fort built as Fort Flash Magnus under Governor Hoebuck to secure the outlet of the Delamare River into Horseshoe Bay, it's the location of Flash Prance's Last Stand against the Dragon Horde, and was bombarded by Griffons and Corsairs, among other history."
Amber blinks. "THIS is where the Last Stand took place? I'm sorry sir, I didn't realize." She looks around at the old masonry with a newfound reverence.
>>132887
"Mhmm" He nods. "Back in the summer of 732. May 6th. A new Firelord was crowned in down in the dragon lands. 'Quarrier' he was called, or at least that is the name survivors understood."
He moves his hoof around, over the ground. If he were over a fire, one could imagine that he were manipulating magic, to make the image appear in the flames. No such flames nor magic exists, but he moves his hooves all the same, as if to conjure forth his story into pictures.
"Now, skirmishes against dragons had gone on for centuries or longer, in the forests and swamps further south. The dragons could always be chased back to their caves and mountain tops. But 'the Quarrier'... he had it in mind to launch a crusade against ponykind. An organized horde, striking far into Pony lands. And that is what he did. They went to the Badlands first. Gathered up their forces. Then they flew out into the forests, burning cottages, villages, farm houses. In the swamps, in the grass lands above..."
He shakes his head
"Not many ponies got away. Of course those settlers always knew they were on lands disputed with the dragons. But this... They didn't stop there. They came to the fortress monestary of Saint George outside Hayseed. That was contingent of well trained dragon slayers. Well equipped, and experienced too. But they didn't have the forces to hold it... The dragons surrounded it, and left some of their forces behind. They kept on, down the river, scorching anything in their path. They were headed straight towards Baltimare. The main contingent of the Royal Guard was aware of the threat. They went to meet the horde south of the city... They didn't know what they were getting into. But it gave the town time to go on high alert. To seek shelter, or start to. There were three forts at that time. Fort Flash Magnus, as it was called back then, was the only true fortress. Built to withstand repeated bombardment from naval cannons. What remained of the garrison took up there. Flash Prance had been just a Sargent in the garrison before then, the second in command. But the lieutenant colonel was killed in battle. So Flash Prance took command.
Fort Hoebuck, inside the town... it wasn't really built to withstand a siege. More like a customs house with strong stone walls to protect a garrison there in the event of a rebellion, than a proper fort built to withstand bombardment from the sea. Half of its structure was wood at the time. So when a hundred towns ponies and part of the garrison held up there, it didn't go well... The wooden customs house was burned down quickly. The stone walls were never pierced, but the ceiling over the courtyard was normally open, and was only hastily covered up.... that, the dragons burned through. Fort Prance... or Fort Magnus, was built on a sandbar alluvial deposit at the end of the river, surrounded by water on three sides. Every side has strong stone walls. And attacking from above was more risky because of how many cannons could be turned on the walls. So for three full weeks, Flash Prance, his garrison, and ponies from the town holed up in this fortress. In this building, in the walls, and below. Flash Prance himself took flight to fight the dragons with shield and halberd, and he directed cannons more than once, battering the dragons back, and returning slash with slash, fire with fire. At the end of second week, the flow of fresh water in the river started to lessen, and brine seeped into what water they could scrounge. Flash Prance did not worry, and instead undertook to evacuate the civilians in the storage rooms under the fort late at night, risking himself for a diversion, while civilians were taken across in rafts across the river at midnight, and later taken to the smaller Fort Keriskai at the mouth of the harbor. With fewer ponies, the water held out longer, and so Flash Prance held out longer."
He looks down, and sighs
"But it could not last. As the Dragons did with the fortress monastery of Saint George, so too did they come to realize they could do with Fort Magnus. The Quarrier would leave some of his forces at Fort Magnus, at the mouth of the Delemare, and send the reminder to attack the last pony holdouts on the peninsula and at Fort Keriskai. As the dragons came in, the ponies went east to water. Fort Magnus, and to lesser extent, even Hoebuck, slowed down and distracted the dragons long enough to let the ponies escape to the water. And so that is where they waited. Waiting for the Equestrian Navy to arrive with reinforcements from the North. Quarrier knew this, and was intent on wiping out the remaining ponies in Horseshoe Bay before rescue came.
But Flash Prance knew this too. When Quarrier left his rearguard, Flash Prance did something that would have made no sense to the dragon lord. The weak left his walls to challenge the strong. Flash Prance lead most of his garrison in a head-long attack against the dragon forces, attacking them, and forcing the Dragon Lord to focus all of his forces to stop him. Witnesses on the walls of Fort Keriskai could see the fires over the mud flats, and could hear the howls crying late into the night.
When the horde finally came to Fort Kerinskai after no short delay, the townsponies had long since secreted themselves away, and the fort held, for what attacked it was but a shadow of that dark cloud that fell upon Baltimare three weeks before. Only a few days passed before the frigates of the royal navy and the Wonderbolts vanguard came and dispersed what was left, giving chase to the remainder. They found Fort Magnus blackened and charred stone melted, but surrounded by dead dragons. And when they opened the doors to the inner most storage rooms, they found thirteen ponies, mostly servants, the craftsponies and the surgeon, but a couple members of the guard as well, still shaking, and still alive in the twenty-seventh day after the siege began. All could recount how Flash Prance had saved all of their lives that night, rushing into the fire..."
"Mhmm" He nods. "Back in the summer of 732. May 6th. A new Firelord was crowned in down in the dragon lands. 'Quarrier' he was called, or at least that is the name survivors understood."
He moves his hoof around, over the ground. If he were over a fire, one could imagine that he were manipulating magic, to make the image appear in the flames. No such flames nor magic exists, but he moves his hooves all the same, as if to conjure forth his story into pictures.
"Now, skirmishes against dragons had gone on for centuries or longer, in the forests and swamps further south. The dragons could always be chased back to their caves and mountain tops. But 'the Quarrier'... he had it in mind to launch a crusade against ponykind. An organized horde, striking far into Pony lands. And that is what he did. They went to the Badlands first. Gathered up their forces. Then they flew out into the forests, burning cottages, villages, farm houses. In the swamps, in the grass lands above..."
He shakes his head
"Not many ponies got away. Of course those settlers always knew they were on lands disputed with the dragons. But this... They didn't stop there. They came to the fortress monestary of Saint George outside Hayseed. That was contingent of well trained dragon slayers. Well equipped, and experienced too. But they didn't have the forces to hold it... The dragons surrounded it, and left some of their forces behind. They kept on, down the river, scorching anything in their path. They were headed straight towards Baltimare. The main contingent of the Royal Guard was aware of the threat. They went to meet the horde south of the city... They didn't know what they were getting into. But it gave the town time to go on high alert. To seek shelter, or start to. There were three forts at that time. Fort Flash Magnus, as it was called back then, was the only true fortress. Built to withstand repeated bombardment from naval cannons. What remained of the garrison took up there. Flash Prance had been just a Sargent in the garrison before then, the second in command. But the lieutenant colonel was killed in battle. So Flash Prance took command.
Fort Hoebuck, inside the town... it wasn't really built to withstand a siege. More like a customs house with strong stone walls to protect a garrison there in the event of a rebellion, than a proper fort built to withstand bombardment from the sea. Half of its structure was wood at the time. So when a hundred towns ponies and part of the garrison held up there, it didn't go well... The wooden customs house was burned down quickly. The stone walls were never pierced, but the ceiling over the courtyard was normally open, and was only hastily covered up.... that, the dragons burned through. Fort Prance... or Fort Magnus, was built on a sandbar alluvial deposit at the end of the river, surrounded by water on three sides. Every side has strong stone walls. And attacking from above was more risky because of how many cannons could be turned on the walls. So for three full weeks, Flash Prance, his garrison, and ponies from the town holed up in this fortress. In this building, in the walls, and below. Flash Prance himself took flight to fight the dragons with shield and halberd, and he directed cannons more than once, battering the dragons back, and returning slash with slash, fire with fire. At the end of second week, the flow of fresh water in the river started to lessen, and brine seeped into what water they could scrounge. Flash Prance did not worry, and instead undertook to evacuate the civilians in the storage rooms under the fort late at night, risking himself for a diversion, while civilians were taken across in rafts across the river at midnight, and later taken to the smaller Fort Keriskai at the mouth of the harbor. With fewer ponies, the water held out longer, and so Flash Prance held out longer."
He looks down, and sighs
"But it could not last. As the Dragons did with the fortress monastery of Saint George, so too did they come to realize they could do with Fort Magnus. The Quarrier would leave some of his forces at Fort Magnus, at the mouth of the Delemare, and send the reminder to attack the last pony holdouts on the peninsula and at Fort Keriskai. As the dragons came in, the ponies went east to water. Fort Magnus, and to lesser extent, even Hoebuck, slowed down and distracted the dragons long enough to let the ponies escape to the water. And so that is where they waited. Waiting for the Equestrian Navy to arrive with reinforcements from the North. Quarrier knew this, and was intent on wiping out the remaining ponies in Horseshoe Bay before rescue came.
But Flash Prance knew this too. When Quarrier left his rearguard, Flash Prance did something that would have made no sense to the dragon lord. The weak left his walls to challenge the strong. Flash Prance lead most of his garrison in a head-long attack against the dragon forces, attacking them, and forcing the Dragon Lord to focus all of his forces to stop him. Witnesses on the walls of Fort Keriskai could see the fires over the mud flats, and could hear the howls crying late into the night.
When the horde finally came to Fort Kerinskai after no short delay, the townsponies had long since secreted themselves away, and the fort held, for what attacked it was but a shadow of that dark cloud that fell upon Baltimare three weeks before. Only a few days passed before the frigates of the royal navy and the Wonderbolts vanguard came and dispersed what was left, giving chase to the remainder. They found Fort Magnus blackened and charred stone melted, but surrounded by dead dragons. And when they opened the doors to the inner most storage rooms, they found thirteen ponies, mostly servants, the craftsponies and the surgeon, but a couple members of the guard as well, still shaking, and still alive in the twenty-seventh day after the siege began. All could recount how Flash Prance had saved all of their lives that night, rushing into the fire..."
>>132888
Amber listens to the old soldier evoke the spirits of the past through story, as entranced by his spell as a young filly at a campfire. Amazement builds along with concern as the recounting of the story continues, and Amber's eyes widen as if what was before her wasn't a pony but old Quarrier himself. She winces when hearing the fate of those who took shelter at Fort Hoebuck, but leans forward eagerly to hear how Flash Prance proves himself, and she twitches her ears, flaps her tail, and biting her lip as the tension of battle builds. A breath of air gets sucked in with astonishment when Flash Prance sallies forth, and after the story is concluded Amber is left breathing hurriedly, her indigo eyes glistening.
"I…I never imagined it to be so desperate. Everything resting on the withers of one pony like that, and knowing he saved of so many at the cost of himself, feels…indescribable." She sniffs. "I'm sorry sir, something's come over me, I need a moment…"
A+ story-telling
>>132906
Yes, please!
Amber listens to the old soldier evoke the spirits of the past through story, as entranced by his spell as a young filly at a campfire. Amazement builds along with concern as the recounting of the story continues, and Amber's eyes widen as if what was before her wasn't a pony but old Quarrier himself. She winces when hearing the fate of those who took shelter at Fort Hoebuck, but leans forward eagerly to hear how Flash Prance proves himself, and she twitches her ears, flaps her tail, and biting her lip as the tension of battle builds. A breath of air gets sucked in with astonishment when Flash Prance sallies forth, and after the story is concluded Amber is left breathing hurriedly, her indigo eyes glistening.
"I…I never imagined it to be so desperate. Everything resting on the withers of one pony like that, and knowing he saved of so many at the cost of himself, feels…indescribable." She sniffs. "I'm sorry sir, something's come over me, I need a moment…"
A+ story-telling
>>132906
Yes, please!
>>132932
He gives a curt nod, blinks, and remains silent for a moment, reserving that time to Amber. Then he says
"It wasn't the first time a pony was willing to run into the fire for the good of another. There's a reason this fort first bore the name of Flash Magnus. Nor was it the last. The spirit of courage inhabits the heart of every pony, to a greater or lesser extent. It only takes the right moment to set it free again, or the right inspiration from those around us. And that is why we commemorate Flash Prance here to this day. So that we may learn from his example, and his sacrifice may ennoble all of us. When he went into that fire, his heart glowed like fine steel. May ours shimmer with even a fraction of the intensity."
>>132792
Spark can hear something on the other side
>>132906
psst: >>132748
He gives a curt nod, blinks, and remains silent for a moment, reserving that time to Amber. Then he says
"It wasn't the first time a pony was willing to run into the fire for the good of another. There's a reason this fort first bore the name of Flash Magnus. Nor was it the last. The spirit of courage inhabits the heart of every pony, to a greater or lesser extent. It only takes the right moment to set it free again, or the right inspiration from those around us. And that is why we commemorate Flash Prance here to this day. So that we may learn from his example, and his sacrifice may ennoble all of us. When he went into that fire, his heart glowed like fine steel. May ours shimmer with even a fraction of the intensity."
>>132792
Spark can hear something on the other side
>>132906
psst: >>132748
>>132933
Amber mulls over these words a bit, then says, "I think I understand what you mean. We ought to celebrate such sacrifice from anypony, even if it is personally quite painful." She wears a sad yet strangely serene smile.
Amber mulls over these words a bit, then says, "I think I understand what you mean. We ought to celebrate such sacrifice from anypony, even if it is personally quite painful." She wears a sad yet strangely serene smile.
>>132936
He nods, a somewhat firm expression on his face
"Indeed"
>>132935
"Sure!"
Mala rushes forth, goes to the counter, and tries to purchase it with the new money, the colt at the counter seeming almost suprised by the enthusiasm
>>132934
It's hard to tell exactly what it going on, but Spark can definitely hear rushed footsteps clopping along a tile floor
He nods, a somewhat firm expression on his face
"Indeed"
>>132935
"Sure!"
Mala rushes forth, goes to the counter, and tries to purchase it with the new money, the colt at the counter seeming almost suprised by the enthusiasm
>>132934
It's hard to tell exactly what it going on, but Spark can definitely hear rushed footsteps clopping along a tile floor
>>132938
He nods.
"In my time. Skirmishes on the Changeling border, skirmishes with Yaks. I was deployed after that Stalliongrad debacle, and in the Snootdan. I was a non-commissioner officer at the time of the Wedding Incursion, and in the Storm King's invasion."
>>132939
Mala puts on the sweater, and then the pack. Both reveal how different Mala's anatomy is from a pony, with slimmer shoulders, a more arched back, a mane that doesn't stop until reaches his tail, a rib cage and barrel that's thinner but taller, and a belly that's fatter than normal, giving his barrel a slightly tear drop shaped cross section.
The colors of the sweater look garish against his coat, but the pack blends better, even if it's looser near the top. Mala looks pleased. Silver is next, and finds the total does not exceed 40 bits.
>>132940
The door, almost strangely, opens to show a hallway with a tile floor, an open door, and above all a red unicorn with brown mane looking over at Spark, rather nervously
He nods.
"In my time. Skirmishes on the Changeling border, skirmishes with Yaks. I was deployed after that Stalliongrad debacle, and in the Snootdan. I was a non-commissioner officer at the time of the Wedding Incursion, and in the Storm King's invasion."
>>132939
Mala puts on the sweater, and then the pack. Both reveal how different Mala's anatomy is from a pony, with slimmer shoulders, a more arched back, a mane that doesn't stop until reaches his tail, a rib cage and barrel that's thinner but taller, and a belly that's fatter than normal, giving his barrel a slightly tear drop shaped cross section.
The colors of the sweater look garish against his coat, but the pack blends better, even if it's looser near the top. Mala looks pleased. Silver is next, and finds the total does not exceed 40 bits.
>>132940
The door, almost strangely, opens to show a hallway with a tile floor, an open door, and above all a red unicorn with brown mane looking over at Spark, rather nervously
>>132942
The unicorn steps out into the hall. From his white coat, it's clear that this pony is a physician of some kind. His eyes are wide, and he staggers as he moves out into the hall, then slightly back to the door well.
"Yes?" He says nervously
>>132943
"I was a professional solider much of my life, up to the Marehdi campaign. After that I retired. But I volunteered when the Storm King came in, and I was called to serve in the Great War. Yes, I was an Instructor."
The unicorn steps out into the hall. From his white coat, it's clear that this pony is a physician of some kind. His eyes are wide, and he staggers as he moves out into the hall, then slightly back to the door well.
"Yes?" He says nervously
>>132943
"I was a professional solider much of my life, up to the Marehdi campaign. After that I retired. But I volunteered when the Storm King came in, and I was called to serve in the Great War. Yes, I was an Instructor."
>>132941
Silver pays for his purchase, and heads out of the store with Mala. At the cart, he turns to his friend:
"So...do you know what TV is?"
Silver pays for his purchase, and heads out of the store with Mala. At the cart, he turns to his friend:
"So...do you know what TV is?"
>>132950
"Brief? You may. Most sections are open to the public now. It's been opened as a museum, of sorts."
"Brief? You may. Most sections are open to the public now. It's been opened as a museum, of sorts."
>>132949
"What, like TB? No, I do not think Jubilosa meant that...ah, we will ask next shopkeeper. I need to buy lockbox or chest of some sort."
"What, like TB? No, I do not think Jubilosa meant that...ah, we will ask next shopkeeper. I need to buy lockbox or chest of some sort."
>>132951
Amber nods, thanks the dog-faced pony soldier and goes off on her way. She trots around the fort, breathing in the atmosphere and taking note of anything especially important.
Amber nods, thanks the dog-faced pony soldier and goes off on her way. She trots around the fort, breathing in the atmosphere and taking note of anything especially important.
>>132949
"I have a sick friend. I think he was poisoned by this strange dust."
Spark reveals the sample of dust he collected.
"I have a sick friend. I think he was poisoned by this strange dust."
Spark reveals the sample of dust he collected.
>>132952
Mala adds:
"Oh... well, yes. Safes and lockboxes. Probably a larger freezer, too. A much larger one."
>>132953
There's a few things. A wall of pole arms, especially halberds, in display cases. A sectioned off roof top, containing a much more modern gun. An area of wall further down that is damaged and broken to pieces. And several rooms of various purposes.
>>132954
"I haven't seen that dust. I had nothing to do with it. I didn't poison anyone with dust." He says
Mala adds:
"Oh... well, yes. Safes and lockboxes. Probably a larger freezer, too. A much larger one."
>>132953
There's a few things. A wall of pole arms, especially halberds, in display cases. A sectioned off roof top, containing a much more modern gun. An area of wall further down that is damaged and broken to pieces. And several rooms of various purposes.
>>132954
"I haven't seen that dust. I had nothing to do with it. I didn't poison anyone with dust." He says
>>132959
"Is there any way you can help me figure out what this stuff is and if there is a cure if you are poisoned by it?"
"Is there any way you can help me figure out what this stuff is and if there is a cure if you are poisoned by it?"
>>132960
"Uh..." he looks at the dust
"Maybe. You may need a mineralogist or an assayer, though, to figure out what this is."
"Uh..." he looks at the dust
"Maybe. You may need a mineralogist or an assayer, though, to figure out what this is."
>>132967
"No, I might have if circumstances were different, but for now, I'm on my own to help anypony that needs it."
"No, I might have if circumstances were different, but for now, I'm on my own to help anypony that needs it."
>>132969
Looking over the top, and into the water, it looks like there are distinguishable marks. Some gashes in the wall are smooth, with no corresponding debris. One area in particular is more heavily damaged, with stone pushed aside, and there is jagged stone debris on the sand and grass below
>>132968
"Uh, oh. Okay."
He takes a closer look at the dust
"I don't think it's arsenic..."
He takes it into the room, and looks at it with a magnifying glass with his yellow magic.
"It looks like rocks. Finely ground rocks. I don't know what it is specifically. It''s kind of crystaline, like quartz. Some of these pieces are a bit like fiber, rather long. I don't know if its poisonous. Maybe if it is swallowed, or inhaled, some of the longer pieces could get caught, or irritate tissue. I couldn't tell you about heavy metal poisoning or anything like that. I don't know."
>>132970
There are a couple. Mostly small, and for residential purposes. There are some though that are commercial grade
Looking over the top, and into the water, it looks like there are distinguishable marks. Some gashes in the wall are smooth, with no corresponding debris. One area in particular is more heavily damaged, with stone pushed aside, and there is jagged stone debris on the sand and grass below
>>132968
"Uh, oh. Okay."
He takes a closer look at the dust
"I don't think it's arsenic..."
He takes it into the room, and looks at it with a magnifying glass with his yellow magic.
"It looks like rocks. Finely ground rocks. I don't know what it is specifically. It''s kind of crystaline, like quartz. Some of these pieces are a bit like fiber, rather long. I don't know if its poisonous. Maybe if it is swallowed, or inhaled, some of the longer pieces could get caught, or irritate tissue. I couldn't tell you about heavy metal poisoning or anything like that. I don't know."
>>132970
There are a couple. Mostly small, and for residential purposes. There are some though that are commercial grade
>>132972
If you mean is it possible to move outside of the walls, the walls cannot be climbed.... well, they are rough enough and angled that scaling them could be possible (if difficult), but it would probably get her kicked out. Going around to view the ground, however, may be possible
If you mean is it possible to move outside of the walls, the walls cannot be climbed.... well, they are rough enough and angled that scaling them could be possible (if difficult), but it would probably get her kicked out. Going around to view the ground, however, may be possible
>>132973
Amber won't risk it just to look at some rocks. As historic as an old fortress can be, there's only so much to see so she decides to move on. Not knowing precisely where she is, she decides to retrace her steps and keep an eye out for anything notable.
Amber won't risk it just to look at some rocks. As historic as an old fortress can be, there's only so much to see so she decides to move on. Not knowing precisely where she is, she decides to retrace her steps and keep an eye out for anything notable.
>>132974
I could definitely add quite a few sights, or she could move along
Amber can see where she is from atop the walls - on the end of a small peninsula that sticks out into the bay, almost exactly at sea level, with the mouth of the river to the right and most of the harbor to the left.
I could definitely add quite a few sights, or she could move along
Amber can see where she is from atop the walls - on the end of a small peninsula that sticks out into the bay, almost exactly at sea level, with the mouth of the river to the right and most of the harbor to the left.
>>132976
From her position on the position of the star that sticks furthest into the water, she can see the two sides of the bay. Houses line both sides, with a hill to the left on the peninsula, a lighthouse at the end, a larger manner on the top of the hill and another larger building on the top midway. There are so many little houses lining around the coast, which seems to have sandy beaches. Near where the coast turns south, a few piers stretch out into the water, and there is a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. Moving closer into the city, this area is better viewed from a more northerly point of the star. Amber can see a number of piers and warehouses - one of which is sectioned off - as well as many factories. Further down still is the Manor Amber visited before, a large brick building, and many smaller buildings that appear to be shops, or belong to fishing vessels. She can even see the small pier she was on earlier. Coming closer, there are a few houses and a clock tower, before the land turns to the peninsula is located. The buildings on the peninsula are only really visible from the north-western point of the star. From there, Amber can see a dock with an ocean going passenger liner docked next to it, a steam, and then closer to the fort (almost next to it,) a set of brown buildings with a walled off area, nearly like a prison. Going around the star to the other side, to the South Western point, Amber can see down the river. There's a large arched bridge that crosses it around where the the peninsula meets the land. The mouth is wider, and the river becomes narrower the further up you look. On the northern side, the seawall continues, though there is land between the river bank and the sea wall, forming a strip of grass next to the river bank that is unoccupied. It looks like there is a walking path there. The Southern side has a seawall at points as well, though not consisently, and there are areas that are grassy and marshy. On both sides, past the seawall, are many two and three story buildings, mostly shops, townhouses, and a single family residences. But Amber can see more than one taller hotel looking building, a couple mills, including an older water will mill, a small factory, and much further down, a cylindrical brick tower, and a rather large brown brick building. The buildings in this area look older than those Amber has seen in many other locations. Going to the south-east point of the star, Amber can see the southern side of the bay, which curves around not far past the end of the river. There is a large factory looking building and a pier with a number of fishing trawlers next to it, and past that, singular houses interspersed with trees. But there are also what appear to be private docks with yachts. Past these, the land is more wild at points, with trees and what looks like swamps. Past these are the outlets of small streams, and the great smoke towers of an industrial building that is larger than any single other. Past these are the outlines of still more trees and some buildings. And then the exit of the bay. Returning to the eastern point of the star, Amber can see a concrete wall below her in the water that seems to be part of the fort, and she can see trawlers and a couple freight ships in the water of the bay. A few clouds pass overhead, darker in color
From her position on the position of the star that sticks furthest into the water, she can see the two sides of the bay. Houses line both sides, with a hill to the left on the peninsula, a lighthouse at the end, a larger manner on the top of the hill and another larger building on the top midway. There are so many little houses lining around the coast, which seems to have sandy beaches. Near where the coast turns south, a few piers stretch out into the water, and there is a Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. Moving closer into the city, this area is better viewed from a more northerly point of the star. Amber can see a number of piers and warehouses - one of which is sectioned off - as well as many factories. Further down still is the Manor Amber visited before, a large brick building, and many smaller buildings that appear to be shops, or belong to fishing vessels. She can even see the small pier she was on earlier. Coming closer, there are a few houses and a clock tower, before the land turns to the peninsula is located. The buildings on the peninsula are only really visible from the north-western point of the star. From there, Amber can see a dock with an ocean going passenger liner docked next to it, a steam, and then closer to the fort (almost next to it,) a set of brown buildings with a walled off area, nearly like a prison. Going around the star to the other side, to the South Western point, Amber can see down the river. There's a large arched bridge that crosses it around where the the peninsula meets the land. The mouth is wider, and the river becomes narrower the further up you look. On the northern side, the seawall continues, though there is land between the river bank and the sea wall, forming a strip of grass next to the river bank that is unoccupied. It looks like there is a walking path there. The Southern side has a seawall at points as well, though not consisently, and there are areas that are grassy and marshy. On both sides, past the seawall, are many two and three story buildings, mostly shops, townhouses, and a single family residences. But Amber can see more than one taller hotel looking building, a couple mills, including an older water will mill, a small factory, and much further down, a cylindrical brick tower, and a rather large brown brick building. The buildings in this area look older than those Amber has seen in many other locations. Going to the south-east point of the star, Amber can see the southern side of the bay, which curves around not far past the end of the river. There is a large factory looking building and a pier with a number of fishing trawlers next to it, and past that, singular houses interspersed with trees. But there are also what appear to be private docks with yachts. Past these, the land is more wild at points, with trees and what looks like swamps. Past these are the outlets of small streams, and the great smoke towers of an industrial building that is larger than any single other. Past these are the outlines of still more trees and some buildings. And then the exit of the bay. Returning to the eastern point of the star, Amber can see a concrete wall below her in the water that seems to be part of the fort, and she can see trawlers and a couple freight ships in the water of the bay. A few clouds pass overhead, darker in color
Amber is glad she took the time to have a look. The view is quite unlike anything one could get inland, as despite being on sea level it is possible to view a whole cross-section of the city. Her eyes widen at the unexpected sight of an amusement park and it takes a good amount of self-control to not set off immediately.
Impressed by the age of the buildings to the south, she decides to visit that area at a later date.
For now, however, Amber will be going to the north. Her plan to to trot first to the brown buildings to see what they are, then the ocean liner dock, and finally along the coast where the piers and warehouses are. Still full of energy and more used to the unknown, she sets out with eagerness.
Impressed by the age of the buildings to the south, she decides to visit that area at a later date.
For now, however, Amber will be going to the north. Her plan to to trot first to the brown buildings to see what they are, then the ocean liner dock, and finally along the coast where the piers and warehouses are. Still full of energy and more used to the unknown, she sets out with eagerness.
>>132981
The buildings to the west, still on the peninsula, are several in number, with the largest three stories tall. There's a section that has high fences. But in front of one of buildings, there is a sign.
Locust Promontory Immigration Facility
The buildings to the west, still on the peninsula, are several in number, with the largest three stories tall. There's a section that has high fences. But in front of one of buildings, there is a sign.
Locust Promontory Immigration Facility
>>132986
Entering through, there is an open hall, and further down, rooms to either side. Amber can see a couple ponies in green uniforms, as well as a griffin moving around
Entering through, there is an open hall, and further down, rooms to either side. Amber can see a couple ponies in green uniforms, as well as a griffin moving around
>>132987
She approaches the nearest uniformed pony and asks, "Hello sir, may I ask what this place is?"
She approaches the nearest uniformed pony and asks, "Hello sir, may I ask what this place is?"
>>132988
He tenses his eyebrows, and answers in an accent not of the countryside:
"This is the reception area for foreign creatures attempting to enter the Baltimare Autonomy."
He tenses his eyebrows, and answers in an accent not of the countryside:
"This is the reception area for foreign creatures attempting to enter the Baltimare Autonomy."
Well I have to go do stuff early tomorrow, so I am out for the night
Right now my day and night cycle intersects with the times you often play on. Meaning, I'm up late. There are other reasons for why I'm up late as of late but why not combine it with the opportunity to play along with you guy?
Dm, could we reset my character's timeline. I actually would for her to join the black hooves or whatever. I also wold like to aplogize for how my character basically criticised the setting and the semi-unpleasent tone I gave off while tallking to Seabreeze and I thank you for you patience.
I can tell you what I want from this gaming sessions now. I want to do missions but i don't want to dick around wiht mundane activities in the world. I don't wanna think about my economy for example in similar fashion that I do in real life. Please, help me fix it so the only economy that I need to think about is how much the material components of my speels and items costs and other mission orianted things, not the renting cost of my stay. I know this hasn't really been a problem at all so far, just giving you a heads up on the fact, that I don't care about that.
My character's reasoning towards joing the black hooves goes basically like this: While she might not be completely sure of how their version of history is correct, they are the best alternative right now for the future of ponies. She is sympathetioc towards teh ELF though and wouldn't like to move against them. This is something that seabreeze knows explicitly, suspects, or haven't even realized yet. Whatever you choose. All this is of course if you would agree to reset back to the that point. Because you know being a crimminal isn't really taking part of the larger story which would be more intresting to me as a player.
I would also like to meet up with other players. I don't know what Amber is currently doing but it would be nice to play along with somebody as well.
Of course, with me having a history of being afk, we would need a way for this to function when or f I'm not playing. So I would give the carte blanche to play that character in those situations that really called for it or just move my character off.screen.
For that I should probably give you a list of her attributes, which is intresting since I have literallly no idea who this character is myself. I have just been trying different ideas to find this character and therefore it has been ridculously inconsitent. Like, seriously, she first tries to join a quasi-police force and later the same fucking day, she decides to become a theif. Wtf?!
But I'll give you a list of traits that she has and some backstory in spoilers, so anyone who doesn't want to be spoiled on this can avoid it, before the next time I play.
Can this be arranged?
Dm, could we reset my character's timeline. I actually would for her to join the black hooves or whatever. I also wold like to aplogize for how my character basically criticised the setting and the semi-unpleasent tone I gave off while tallking to Seabreeze and I thank you for you patience.
I can tell you what I want from this gaming sessions now. I want to do missions but i don't want to dick around wiht mundane activities in the world. I don't wanna think about my economy for example in similar fashion that I do in real life. Please, help me fix it so the only economy that I need to think about is how much the material components of my speels and items costs and other mission orianted things, not the renting cost of my stay. I know this hasn't really been a problem at all so far, just giving you a heads up on the fact, that I don't care about that.
My character's reasoning towards joing the black hooves goes basically like this: While she might not be completely sure of how their version of history is correct, they are the best alternative right now for the future of ponies. She is sympathetioc towards teh ELF though and wouldn't like to move against them. This is something that seabreeze knows explicitly, suspects, or haven't even realized yet. Whatever you choose. All this is of course if you would agree to reset back to the that point. Because you know being a crimminal isn't really taking part of the larger story which would be more intresting to me as a player.
I would also like to meet up with other players. I don't know what Amber is currently doing but it would be nice to play along with somebody as well.
Of course, with me having a history of being afk, we would need a way for this to function when or f I'm not playing. So I would give the carte blanche to play that character in those situations that really called for it or just move my character off.screen.
For that I should probably give you a list of her attributes, which is intresting since I have literallly no idea who this character is myself. I have just been trying different ideas to find this character and therefore it has been ridculously inconsitent. Like, seriously, she first tries to join a quasi-police force and later the same fucking day, she decides to become a theif. Wtf?!
But I'll give you a list of traits that she has and some backstory in spoilers, so anyone who doesn't want to be spoiled on this can avoid it, before the next time I play.
Can this be arranged?
Also, dm, never prepare anything for my sessions. There's never any security that I will actually be there so you should just improvise whenever I actually join for missions and such, if you don't got any ready. I hope that I haven't made you make a manticore enclousre for my sake. That would suck.
>>132998
>Right now my day and night cycle intersects with the times you often play on. Meaning, I'm up late. There are other reasons for why I'm up late as of late but why not combine it with the opportunity to play along with you guy?
Ironically it's much easier when online friends have opposite timezones rather than the right-angle that Europe poses for both the DM and me. Would be great to have you around, though!
>I want to do missions but i don't want to dick around wiht mundane activities in the world. I don't wanna think about my economy for example in similar fashion that I do in real life.
>I don't know what Amber is currently doing but it would be nice to play along with somebody as well.
Ironically that's precisely what Amber's been doing. ICly the only thing she's focused on is working, paying off her debt and sending money back to her parents, though she does love music and adventure. The whole time she's been in Baltimare, aside from that business, she's basically been a tourist, though I don't think it's for naught as this "boring" part has helped build atmosphere and let me get a feel for Amber's character. She may seek out the unexpected but doesn't actively do so for danger, but I have confidence in the DM's ability to show how the two are intertwined.
And yes, absolutely I think our characters should pair up, and not just because I feel guilty that the DM's been writing two or three words for every one of my own in essentially single-player. Although their goals and personalities contrast I think they can ultimately complement each other. Have you ever seen the tv show The Persuaders, or its comedy equivalent The Odd Couple? I would really enjoy a duo like that even before we join the "main" party. Also I don't mind doing the dreary economic stuff for you.
>Of course, with me having a history of being afk, we would need a way for this to function when or f I'm not playing.
Although auto-pilot helps keep the game rolling it's not easy for the DM to do if the PC-but-at-the-moment-a-NPC is to remain interesting. Before doing that I recommend playing for a bit of time so we know not just her macro-goals but also her micro-interactions. Of course the more complex or quirky a character is the longer this takes. Amber could probably be put on autopilot but she's fairly simple and I laid bare most of her details to the DM already, but even I have trouble role-playing her sometimes because she's supposed to have rural West Virginia mannerisms and I'm not good at that.
But really, worry less and just play.
>Right now my day and night cycle intersects with the times you often play on. Meaning, I'm up late. There are other reasons for why I'm up late as of late but why not combine it with the opportunity to play along with you guy?
Ironically it's much easier when online friends have opposite timezones rather than the right-angle that Europe poses for both the DM and me. Would be great to have you around, though!
>I want to do missions but i don't want to dick around wiht mundane activities in the world. I don't wanna think about my economy for example in similar fashion that I do in real life.
>I don't know what Amber is currently doing but it would be nice to play along with somebody as well.
Ironically that's precisely what Amber's been doing. ICly the only thing she's focused on is working, paying off her debt and sending money back to her parents, though she does love music and adventure. The whole time she's been in Baltimare, aside from that business, she's basically been a tourist, though I don't think it's for naught as this "boring" part has helped build atmosphere and let me get a feel for Amber's character. She may seek out the unexpected but doesn't actively do so for danger, but I have confidence in the DM's ability to show how the two are intertwined.
And yes, absolutely I think our characters should pair up, and not just because I feel guilty that the DM's been writing two or three words for every one of my own in essentially single-player. Although their goals and personalities contrast I think they can ultimately complement each other. Have you ever seen the tv show The Persuaders, or its comedy equivalent The Odd Couple? I would really enjoy a duo like that even before we join the "main" party. Also I don't mind doing the dreary economic stuff for you.
>Of course, with me having a history of being afk, we would need a way for this to function when or f I'm not playing.
Although auto-pilot helps keep the game rolling it's not easy for the DM to do if the PC-but-at-the-moment-a-NPC is to remain interesting. Before doing that I recommend playing for a bit of time so we know not just her macro-goals but also her micro-interactions. Of course the more complex or quirky a character is the longer this takes. Amber could probably be put on autopilot but she's fairly simple and I laid bare most of her details to the DM already, but even I have trouble role-playing her sometimes because she's supposed to have rural West Virginia mannerisms and I'm not good at that.
But really, worry less and just play.
Drove into the city to go to court this morning. Client denied that his name was his name, and told me his name was "God." One of many reasons I filed a motion to withdraw
>>132998
Hello again!
You can reset your character's timeline if you like, but you can also continue playing with the current mission to break into the zoo to steal a Manticore's toenails, which ever you prefer. There's no offense taken on setting or factions. It's fine to have a character who is very young and kind of immature, or who has ideological or political preferences that would make her opposed to any given faction. It's true that at that time I didn't want to have characters supporting opposing factions, but really Brie and his posse have been supporting an entirely different and opposing faction for quite some time now.
We can skip whatever parts of the economy you would rather not deal with, and we can get into missions. Please tell me what kinds of missions you would find most interesting (stealth? Infiltration? Theft? How much killing?)
It would be great to have you play. I think Amber is available. Probably
>Who this character is
Well, I understand her as a young girl who is rather immature, who loves cats, and who very much hates Changelings being in her country.
>>132998
Hello again!
You can reset your character's timeline if you like, but you can also continue playing with the current mission to break into the zoo to steal a Manticore's toenails, which ever you prefer. There's no offense taken on setting or factions. It's fine to have a character who is very young and kind of immature, or who has ideological or political preferences that would make her opposed to any given faction. It's true that at that time I didn't want to have characters supporting opposing factions, but really Brie and his posse have been supporting an entirely different and opposing faction for quite some time now.
We can skip whatever parts of the economy you would rather not deal with, and we can get into missions. Please tell me what kinds of missions you would find most interesting (stealth? Infiltration? Theft? How much killing?)
It would be great to have you play. I think Amber is available. Probably
>Who this character is
Well, I understand her as a young girl who is rather immature, who loves cats, and who very much hates Changelings being in her country.
>>132971
It doesn't need to be big or fancy. A residential grade one will work. He looks for an associate to help him with his purchases, and to ask what a "TV" is.
It doesn't need to be big or fancy. A residential grade one will work. He looks for an associate to help him with his purchases, and to ask what a "TV" is.
>>133042
A small safe is easily obtained. A bigger one, that seems to be able to fit long guns, is available for more money, though it would of course be harder to hide.
A mare associate answers
"Oh, well aren't you fancy. We have televisions on the second floor. Baltimare programming allows as many as three channels."
A small safe is easily obtained. A bigger one, that seems to be able to fit long guns, is available for more money, though it would of course be harder to hide.
A mare associate answers
"Oh, well aren't you fancy. We have televisions on the second floor. Baltimare programming allows as many as three channels."
>>133043
He's fine with a small safe. He tilts his head at the associate.
"Fancy? So, what is it? What do they do?"
He's fine with a small safe. He tilts his head at the associate.
"Fancy? So, what is it? What do they do?"
>>133044
"Well, they film a live picture on a stage, send that film through the airwaves, and then it displays on the screen of a box, like the cinema but smaller."
"Well, they film a live picture on a stage, send that film through the airwaves, and then it displays on the screen of a box, like the cinema but smaller."
>>133045
Silver's eyes widen at the description.
"It does for pictures what radio does for sound? What technological wonders we have made in such short amount of time..."
Silver's eyes widen at the description.
"It does for pictures what radio does for sound? What technological wonders we have made in such short amount of time..."
>>133046
"Yes. They've had the ability for a few years now, it's just what you can watch on it that's lagging behind."
"Yes. They've had the ability for a few years now, it's just what you can watch on it that's lagging behind."
>>133047
"Really? I did not know we had this technology. Thank you for assistance."
Silver goes up to look at the TVs.
"Really? I did not know we had this technology. Thank you for assistance."
Silver goes up to look at the TVs.
File (): 7B0EC29F8A4D008F398ABD167454DEE2-66506.jpg (64.9 KB, 600x600, kdobbqpsmc3x3fu7lirg.jfif)
>>133048
The brown wooden box has a rounded square grey screen in the center, and knobs at the bottom, sort of like a radio
The brown wooden box has a rounded square grey screen in the center, and knobs at the bottom, sort of like a radio
>>133056
"Hmm. Well, I suppose we shall see."
Silver goes to find the associate to help him with his final purchase.
"Hmm. Well, I suppose we shall see."
Silver goes to find the associate to help him with his final purchase.
>>133057
The associate helps him, and a couple colts and Mala help to carry the safe, the refrigerator, and the Television. It's about 800 bits in total (less if cheaper units are used for the refrigerator and safe), and a pony shows silver how to set up the television at the house to receive analog signal.
The associate helps him, and a couple colts and Mala help to carry the safe, the refrigerator, and the Television. It's about 800 bits in total (less if cheaper units are used for the refrigerator and safe), and a pony shows silver how to set up the television at the house to receive analog signal.
>>133058
He pays for it all, and pays close attention to the what the pony shows him. He gives him his thanks afterwards, and hitches himself to the cart with the new appliances.
He pays for it all, and pays close attention to the what the pony shows him. He gives him his thanks afterwards, and hitches himself to the cart with the new appliances.
>>133060
That he does. He looks to Mala.
"Alright, next is groceries, then home. I have couple of other little things I need to do, but you do not have to come along."
That he does. He looks to Mala.
"Alright, next is groceries, then home. I have couple of other little things I need to do, but you do not have to come along."
>>133062
Silver heads for a grocery store to stock up on the essentials: milk, sugar, eggs, bread, flour, some fruit, etc. He also stocks up on the ingredients to make dinner for the house tonight. Egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, an onion, a couple cans of mushrooms, and sour cream.
Silver heads for a grocery store to stock up on the essentials: milk, sugar, eggs, bread, flour, some fruit, etc. He also stocks up on the ingredients to make dinner for the house tonight. Egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, an onion, a couple cans of mushrooms, and sour cream.
I've been lurking a while and was debating playing. It's too late now but I can join tomorrow if that's okay.
>>133063
There's a corner grocery store just down the street. Sugar is available again - albeit at a premium - and some fruits, like mangos and strawberries, are missing, but bread, flour, milk, apples, bananas, and many other items are also available. Eggs are trickier to obtain, but they can be found.
>>133064
That's okay. I have court in the morning anyways
There's a corner grocery store just down the street. Sugar is available again - albeit at a premium - and some fruits, like mangos and strawberries, are missing, but bread, flour, milk, apples, bananas, and many other items are also available. Eggs are trickier to obtain, but they can be found.
>>133064
That's okay. I have court in the morning anyways
>>133063
Egg noodles and cream of mushroom soup, unlike onions, but like eggs, require traveling a little further down the peninsula, to an even larger grocery store with more options.
Egg noodles and cream of mushroom soup, unlike onions, but like eggs, require traveling a little further down the peninsula, to an even larger grocery store with more options.
If today's not possible, whenever convenient will do.
>>133069
"Sure" Mala says, calmly. He uses a belt to help wrap under the refrigerator and over his shoulders, helping to carry it up the stairs, though he comments
"Will we have room in the Kitchen for this thing? Also, where does the Tel... the box thing go?"
He likewise is able to help pull the safe in, and up the flight up stairs inside.
"Sure" Mala says, calmly. He uses a belt to help wrap under the refrigerator and over his shoulders, helping to carry it up the stairs, though he comments
"Will we have room in the Kitchen for this thing? Also, where does the Tel... the box thing go?"
He likewise is able to help pull the safe in, and up the flight up stairs inside.
*cough cough*
>>132990
If Amber is not interrupted she'll leave the immigration building and find herself back on the street, unless if Discord did something wonky. She'll be moving back up north, keeping an eye out for the landmarks she saw earlier. She definitely will check out the ocean liner.
>>132990
If Amber is not interrupted she'll leave the immigration building and find herself back on the street, unless if Discord did something wonky. She'll be moving back up north, keeping an eye out for the landmarks she saw earlier. She definitely will check out the ocean liner.
>>133083
The ocean liner is immediately down on a dock on the same small peninsula, evidently unmoving at its mooring
The ocean liner is immediately down on a dock on the same small peninsula, evidently unmoving at its mooring
>>133084
Amber trots down to the ocean liner and looks up, impressed at how high the ship rises out of the water–and the dock.
How do ponies get all the way up there? she wonders to herself.
Amber trots down to the ocean liner and looks up, impressed at how high the ship rises out of the water–and the dock.
How do ponies get all the way up there? she wonders to herself.
>>133082
"I am hoping we have space, or we will have to find way to set it up outside. And we will set up TV in living room."
Silver, for his part, handles the TV.
"I am hoping we have space, or we will have to find way to set it up outside. And we will set up TV in living room."
Silver, for his part, handles the TV.
>>133096
It’s kind of big, and it looks like it’ll require moving the phonograph and the stuffed leopard
Mala nods
It’s kind of big, and it looks like it’ll require moving the phonograph and the stuffed leopard
Mala nods
>>133097
Silver rearranges the mentioned furniture to make room for the TV, and then sets it up as he was shown.
Silver rearranges the mentioned furniture to make room for the TV, and then sets it up as he was shown.
>>133107
hopes
>>133108
Silver really has to push things aside, placing the phonograph partly into the dining area and pushing the taxidermied creature aside. But it fits. Jubilosa patters around across the floor, her claws making a definite tapping noise, as she moves back and forth looking at the new marvel. She says things like "I'd heard of these but never seen one" and "how does it work?"
Eventually, Silver thinks he has it set up to where it can play
hopes
>>133108
Silver really has to push things aside, placing the phonograph partly into the dining area and pushing the taxidermied creature aside. But it fits. Jubilosa patters around across the floor, her claws making a definite tapping noise, as she moves back and forth looking at the new marvel. She says things like "I'd heard of these but never seen one" and "how does it work?"
Eventually, Silver thinks he has it set up to where it can play
>>133109
"Had I known that was TV in Maakie's office, I would have nabbed it. I had not heard of TVs before, I must have been really out of loop."
Silver turns it on, and turns to dial to one of the channels offered.
"Had I known that was TV in Maakie's office, I would have nabbed it. I had not heard of TVs before, I must have been really out of loop."
Silver turns it on, and turns to dial to one of the channels offered.
>>133110
https://youtu.be/9wOvdeViZxM?t=31
>>133117
Aww... Hopefully
Unless I have to deal with a hurricane...
https://youtu.be/9wOvdeViZxM?t=31
>>133117
Aww... Hopefully
Unless I have to deal with a hurricane...
>>133118
Silver looks rather entranced by the television, like a foal seeing something amazing for the first time.
Silver looks rather entranced by the television, like a foal seeing something amazing for the first time.
>>133125
>>133110
Turning on the screen, Silver sees a black and white display of an orchestra: ponies playing violins, the piano and the trombone. It’s a song Silver recognizes from his young adulthood, with an upbeat tune. Jubilosa seems enraptured by the site, and Mala moves over to watch the screen as well.
>>133110
Turning on the screen, Silver sees a black and white display of an orchestra: ponies playing violins, the piano and the trombone. It’s a song Silver recognizes from his young adulthood, with an upbeat tune. Jubilosa seems enraptured by the site, and Mala moves over to watch the screen as well.
>>133126
Silver sits down on the couch, content to sit and enjoy a moment of peaceful nostalgia. He scoots closer to Jubilosa and puts a foreleg around her in a side hug.
Silver sits down on the couch, content to sit and enjoy a moment of peaceful nostalgia. He scoots closer to Jubilosa and puts a foreleg around her in a side hug.
>>133127
She moves her head back and towards Silver, startled by the sudden movement. But she turns her head back forward, lays it on his shoulder, and watches the band play.
https://youtu.be/m0hlzE4MaZQ
>>133128
“Uh... alright.” He smiles awkwardly
Spark doesn’t know where the mining building is, but it turns out to not be a problem at all. The mining company building is near the police station on the top of the hill in Blackwood, and is one of the few buildings to have multiple floors. Entering inside an alleged green unicorn pony stands next to the door holding a Equestrian-style carbine and wearing the big fluffy white coats of the garrison. He watches Spark enter, saying nothing. There is a receptionist at the desk, who asks Spark “can I help you?”
She moves her head back and towards Silver, startled by the sudden movement. But she turns her head back forward, lays it on his shoulder, and watches the band play.
https://youtu.be/m0hlzE4MaZQ
>>133128
“Uh... alright.” He smiles awkwardly
Spark doesn’t know where the mining building is, but it turns out to not be a problem at all. The mining company building is near the police station on the top of the hill in Blackwood, and is one of the few buildings to have multiple floors. Entering inside an alleged green unicorn pony stands next to the door holding a Equestrian-style carbine and wearing the big fluffy white coats of the garrison. He watches Spark enter, saying nothing. There is a receptionist at the desk, who asks Spark “can I help you?”
>>133129
As does Silver, closing his eyes as he listens to the music from before the world turned upside down, while cuddling with the beautiful griffon by his side.
As does Silver, closing his eyes as he listens to the music from before the world turned upside down, while cuddling with the beautiful griffon by his side.
Fantasy is currently shilling the griffins.
I might have time today.
I might have time today.
File (): 6AAE80A408308003375498B0D1AA1F07-130949.jpg (127.9 KB, 1920x1152, 1920px-SS_Albert_Ballin.1923.jpg)
>>133085
>>133130
Amber is able to get a pretty good view of the ship as it is moored next to the dock. It's a medium sized passenger liner with a black color scheme on the bottom of the hull, and a white strip along the top of the hull, as well as on the structures above the hull. It's structure rises several stories above the hull, and there are at least two smoke stacks and four masts. The ship, marked as the Griffwallen of the Feathesian-Equestrian Line, doesn't appear to be occupied by any one.
>>133133
Huzzah! Where do you want to start now?
>>133131
The song played predates the occupation, the war, the other wars and invasions, the elements, the birth of Jubilosa, or Khoi, or Mala or Silver's children for that matter. It predates Silver's move to Manehattan, and even his earliest dates with Storm Waring... not that it was absent from those, mind you. The sound quality isn't quite as good as a phonograph, and it's certainly no live band, but Silver can tell there are more instruments playing, and a more professional band playing this old song, than what he heard in the park at Ponyville all those years ago. The feathers leaning next to Silver are new - he couldn't feel that before - as is the couch. But the sound is old, belonging to a time when SIlver was young.
>>133132
"What?" She looks skeptical "No one has been poisoned."
>>133130
Amber is able to get a pretty good view of the ship as it is moored next to the dock. It's a medium sized passenger liner with a black color scheme on the bottom of the hull, and a white strip along the top of the hull, as well as on the structures above the hull. It's structure rises several stories above the hull, and there are at least two smoke stacks and four masts. The ship, marked as the Griffwallen of the Feathesian-Equestrian Line, doesn't appear to be occupied by any one.
>>133133
Huzzah! Where do you want to start now?
>>133131
The song played predates the occupation, the war, the other wars and invasions, the elements, the birth of Jubilosa, or Khoi, or Mala or Silver's children for that matter. It predates Silver's move to Manehattan, and even his earliest dates with Storm Waring... not that it was absent from those, mind you. The sound quality isn't quite as good as a phonograph, and it's certainly no live band, but Silver can tell there are more instruments playing, and a more professional band playing this old song, than what he heard in the park at Ponyville all those years ago. The feathers leaning next to Silver are new - he couldn't feel that before - as is the couch. But the sound is old, belonging to a time when SIlver was young.
>>133132
"What?" She looks skeptical "No one has been poisoned."
>>133139
>>133138
There is a gangway plank (exactly one) up to the ship. The gangplank has a rope across it to signify that the ship is not open, although the rope clearly wouldn't and couldn't stop someone determined to ignore it
>>133140
Griffin is squeezed
She seems to like the affection. When the Orchestra is finished with the song, they play a different melody. This new melody, much, much older in its origins, is among those recognized as a "classic"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6u-2NDsEgA
>>133138
There is a gangway plank (exactly one) up to the ship. The gangplank has a rope across it to signify that the ship is not open, although the rope clearly wouldn't and couldn't stop someone determined to ignore it
>>133140
Griffin is squeezed
She seems to like the affection. When the Orchestra is finished with the song, they play a different melody. This new melody, much, much older in its origins, is among those recognized as a "classic"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6u-2NDsEgA
>>133141
Hopefully the gangway has railings, because Amber has already made her mind up. She ducks under the rope and tentatively goes up.
>>133129
>>133141
For the proper experience watch in 144p, though even that is probably too good for TVs of the time.
>>133134
Aww, I'm still looking forward to you joining.
Hopefully the gangway has railings, because Amber has already made her mind up. She ducks under the rope and tentatively goes up.
>>133129
>>133141
For the proper experience watch in 144p, though even that is probably too good for TVs of the time.
>>133134
Aww, I'm still looking forward to you joining.
File (): 70B89F0CF6B78C3E7EDB37E0808D6577-466614.png (455.7 KB, 675x867, ce7a1a090dbf77fad3f243aa5f762609.png)
>>133134
We hope you'll join us
>>133142
And Amber moves under the rope. (Yes, it does have railings). It takes Amber up a level to a covered walk way on the first floor of the structure above the hull. There are any number of portals and windows to the side.
>>133143
"This is very nice... I never had anything like this back home"
We hope you'll join us
>>133142
And Amber moves under the rope. (Yes, it does have railings). It takes Amber up a level to a covered walk way on the first floor of the structure above the hull. There are any number of portals and windows to the side.
>>133143
"This is very nice... I never had anything like this back home"
>>133144
Ponies have to steer a ship at the front to see where they're going, right?
She trots over to the bow deck of the ship.
Ponies have to steer a ship at the front to see where they're going, right?
She trots over to the bow deck of the ship.
>>133144
"I have to agree, it is very nice. But this moment is what I am truly relishing most about this TV."
"I have to agree, it is very nice. But this moment is what I am truly relishing most about this TV."
>>133147
The camera switches, showing a close up of a unicorn playing the violin, crossing the string back and forth.
"Huh?"
Jubilosa doesn't seem to understand, but she goes back to watching, still laying her head on Silver
The camera switches, showing a close up of a unicorn playing the violin, crossing the string back and forth.
"Huh?"
Jubilosa doesn't seem to understand, but she goes back to watching, still laying her head on Silver
>>133146
Now Amber is obviously not very knowledgeable about modern ship layout, but she knows that upstairs is probably the best place to look around, so she goes up.
Now Amber is obviously not very knowledgeable about modern ship layout, but she knows that upstairs is probably the best place to look around, so she goes up.
>>133135
Spark holds up the sample.
"It may have been an accident, but my friend is really sick. I believe this is what might have caused it."
Spark holds up the sample.
"It may have been an accident, but my friend is really sick. I believe this is what might have caused it."
>>133149
It looks like there isn't an external stairs to go up to the next level. There are a couple doors, however, to go into the structure. From Where amber is, she can see the bridge, the white superstructure, and the forward mast.
>>133150
She shakes her head
"What is that supposed to be?"
[1d3 = 1]
It looks like there isn't an external stairs to go up to the next level. There are a couple doors, however, to go into the structure. From Where amber is, she can see the bridge, the white superstructure, and the forward mast.
>>133150
She shakes her head
"What is that supposed to be?"
[1d3 = 1]
>>133148
Silver smiles, turns his head, and plants a kiss on the top of Jubilosa's.
"Never you mind, Jubilosa. Let us just enjoy this moment."
Silver smiles, turns his head, and plants a kiss on the top of Jubilosa's.
"Never you mind, Jubilosa. Let us just enjoy this moment."
>>133155
She frowns. Maybe I shouldn't be here in the first place. This was awfully foalish of me. She anxious walks back to where the gangplank should be.
She frowns. Maybe I shouldn't be here in the first place. This was awfully foalish of me. She anxious walks back to where the gangplank should be.
>>133161
Amber is surprised by the appearance of the creature to the point she takes a step back. "Er…I didn't realize at-at the time. I'm, um, I mean I was just having a look around."
Amber is surprised by the appearance of the creature to the point she takes a step back. "Er…I didn't realize at-at the time. I'm, um, I mean I was just having a look around."
>>133163
The griffin comes closer. He blocks Amber's only known path out of the ship
"The ship is closed at the moment. You can't be here kid"
He looks like he is wearing the uniform of some company. His facial expression is stern and not really friendly. He has a definite accent, so strong it's hard to understand him. What that accent is, Amber can't really say, but it's different than that of the griffins she encountered earlier
>>133162
"Uh... let me check"
She moves back, and looks down the hallway, and then comes back
"Sure. He's up the stairs, second door on the left. Go there, and only there."
The griffin comes closer. He blocks Amber's only known path out of the ship
"The ship is closed at the moment. You can't be here kid"
He looks like he is wearing the uniform of some company. His facial expression is stern and not really friendly. He has a definite accent, so strong it's hard to understand him. What that accent is, Amber can't really say, but it's different than that of the griffins she encountered earlier
>>133162
"Uh... let me check"
She moves back, and looks down the hallway, and then comes back
"Sure. He's up the stairs, second door on the left. Go there, and only there."
>>133164
Amber tries to smile but her expression winds up looking more like a grimace. "I'm…I'm sorry sir, I was just curious about this boat…."
Amber tries to smile but her expression winds up looking more like a grimace. "I'm…I'm sorry sir, I was just curious about this boat…."
>>133165
"Well be curious at a distance. We're supposed to sail this week and we don't need stowaways or vandals damaging things"
>>133166
Into the hallway with tile floors, and up the wooden stairs, Spark knocks on the door to a "come in," and opens to see a lab with metal tables, beakers, a microscope, and a dark green pony who glistens in multiple shades.
"Well be curious at a distance. We're supposed to sail this week and we don't need stowaways or vandals damaging things"
>>133166
Into the hallway with tile floors, and up the wooden stairs, Spark knocks on the door to a "come in," and opens to see a lab with metal tables, beakers, a microscope, and a dark green pony who glistens in multiple shades.
>>133158
Silver smiles at Mala, and looks over to Khoi.
"So, if none of us have seen TV before, am I safe to assume that also applies to you?"
Silver smiles at Mala, and looks over to Khoi.
"So, if none of us have seen TV before, am I safe to assume that also applies to you?"
>>133169
"Back to Rottendam. This ship has been holed up in harbor for three months, for fear even a ship under nuetral flag is not safe. But we've wrestled her from the colonial customs, and the Republican Navy is all smashed to pieces as of a week ago. She is set to leave again in a few days."
>>133170
He looks at Spark, literally shining as he smiles
>>133168
Khoi:
"What is TV"
Mala:
"I could see it playing in Maakie's room"
"What do you need?"
"Back to Rottendam. This ship has been holed up in harbor for three months, for fear even a ship under nuetral flag is not safe. But we've wrestled her from the colonial customs, and the Republican Navy is all smashed to pieces as of a week ago. She is set to leave again in a few days."
>>133170
He looks at Spark, literally shining as he smiles
>>133168
Khoi:
"What is TV"
Mala:
"I could see it playing in Maakie's room"
"What do you need?"
>>133171
"I have a friend who is very sick and I think that this might be why, but I have no idea what it is.."
Spark reveals the sample.
"I have a friend who is very sick and I think that this might be why, but I have no idea what it is.."
Spark reveals the sample.
>>133174
"Oh. Right." She squeezes by, a stupid expression on her face. I didn't know we were at war with Skyfall. Or maybe Feathisia is. Hopefully whenever I can afford a newspaper I won't be making an ass out of myself.
"Oh. Right." She squeezes by, a stupid expression on her face. I didn't know we were at war with Skyfall. Or maybe Feathisia is. Hopefully whenever I can afford a newspaper I won't be making an ass out of myself.
>>133178
He looks at the rock dust under a microscope
"This is cummingtonite. It's a crystal, almost fibrous, made of iron and silica. It occurs right alongside the Magnetite we mine in the same rocks. It's produced as a waste in tailing. It's not directly poisonous... But I wouldn't recommend eating it."
>>133177
Khoi sits down on the couch, looking almost like she's waiting for something as she watches the television. Mala seems to have zoned out, but looks content. Jubilosa is unambiguously enjoying the moment.
A Stallion stands before the screen, evidently the conductor:
"Alright, that was Symphony B from Beathooven by the Baltimare Symphony Orchestra. Now, for Starlight's Walz."
He looks at the rock dust under a microscope
"This is cummingtonite. It's a crystal, almost fibrous, made of iron and silica. It occurs right alongside the Magnetite we mine in the same rocks. It's produced as a waste in tailing. It's not directly poisonous... But I wouldn't recommend eating it."
>>133177
Khoi sits down on the couch, looking almost like she's waiting for something as she watches the television. Mala seems to have zoned out, but looks content. Jubilosa is unambiguously enjoying the moment.
A Stallion stands before the screen, evidently the conductor:
"Alright, that was Symphony B from Beathooven by the Baltimare Symphony Orchestra. Now, for Starlight's Walz."
>>133180
Silver, for his part, is enjoying the nice, peaceful moment spent in good company, as well as the calming music from a bygone era.
Silver, for his part, is enjoying the nice, peaceful moment spent in good company, as well as the calming music from a bygone era.
>>133181
"I don't know. It's normally iron and silicate, but sometimes its Manganese. It's forms crystalline structures that are sometimes fibrous, almost like asbestos... I couldn't tell you what happens if you inhale or drink it. There are not usually heavy metals. Maybe Calcium or Sodium, but mostly silicate rocks."
>>133179
He lets her by, watching her the whole way with a skeptical look
"I don't know. It's normally iron and silicate, but sometimes its Manganese. It's forms crystalline structures that are sometimes fibrous, almost like asbestos... I couldn't tell you what happens if you inhale or drink it. There are not usually heavy metals. Maybe Calcium or Sodium, but mostly silicate rocks."
>>133179
He lets her by, watching her the whole way with a skeptical look
>>133182
Silver is able to continue this for a while, with the orchestra playing more songs as time progresses. Jubilosa doesn't seem to want to move, and Khoi doesn't seem to know what else to do.
Silver is able to continue this for a while, with the orchestra playing more songs as time progresses. Jubilosa doesn't seem to want to move, and Khoi doesn't seem to know what else to do.
>>133183
Amber gives one last apologetic glance back before descending the gangplank as quickly as possible without risking tripping.
Amber gives one last apologetic glance back before descending the gangplank as quickly as possible without risking tripping.
>>133185
He shrugs
"I don't know how it would make you sick. But I'm not a doctor. I don't think it's metal poisoning, though"
>>133186
He stands at the top, and watches her go.
Amber passes several relatively higher end shops on the small peninsula, and then onto a diagonal road with a clocktower, a school, and multiple apartment buildings along it
Okay, now I see the joke
He shrugs
"I don't know how it would make you sick. But I'm not a doctor. I don't think it's metal poisoning, though"
>>133186
He stands at the top, and watches her go.
Amber passes several relatively higher end shops on the small peninsula, and then onto a diagonal road with a clocktower, a school, and multiple apartment buildings along it
Okay, now I see the joke
>>133184
Silver looks over at Khoi, noticing her lack of interaction.
"What is wrong? You have been quiet."
Silver looks over at Khoi, noticing her lack of interaction.
"What is wrong? You have been quiet."
>>133188
What's the size of the clock tower and how do the school/apartment buildings compare to her "home" neighborhood? Also what kind of school is it?
What's the size of the clock tower and how do the school/apartment buildings compare to her "home" neighborhood? Also what kind of school is it?
>>133191
The clock tower is maybe only 65 feet in height, taller than most buildings but hardly towering over the city as a whole, and noticeably lower than the cranes of the docks or smoke towers. The apartment buildings are largely three stories tall, occasionally with small shops on the first level. The facade on the buildings and the bricks looks slightly nicer than what Amber has. The clock tower is next to a small plaza on the right side of the street, and the plaza contains an open air market. The school seems to be a secondary school.
>>133192
"No, it is fine. I am a bit unfamiliar."
The clock tower is maybe only 65 feet in height, taller than most buildings but hardly towering over the city as a whole, and noticeably lower than the cranes of the docks or smoke towers. The apartment buildings are largely three stories tall, occasionally with small shops on the first level. The facade on the buildings and the bricks looks slightly nicer than what Amber has. The clock tower is next to a small plaza on the right side of the street, and the plaza contains an open air market. The school seems to be a secondary school.
>>133192
"No, it is fine. I am a bit unfamiliar."
>>133193
"Well, alright, as long as you are fine. I suppose you are just supposed to relax and enjoy as orchestra plays music.".
"Well, alright, as long as you are fine. I suppose you are just supposed to relax and enjoy as orchestra plays music.".
>>133193
Although has certainly seen taller buildings in the city the clocktower, in comparison with the earth-hugging buildings and cottages Amber is used to, is positively monumental when viewed from the street. She doesn't take too much time to admire its features though and so you don't spend hours writing descriptions for minor landmarks, but sniffs to get an initial impression of what's sold at the market. She does glance at the secondary school and think to herself, it's hard to imagine that ponies my age might still be studying in there.
Although has certainly seen taller buildings in the city the clocktower, in comparison with the earth-hugging buildings and cottages Amber is used to, is positively monumental when viewed from the street. She doesn't take too much time to admire its features though and so you don't spend hours writing descriptions for minor landmarks, but sniffs to get an initial impression of what's sold at the market. She does glance at the secondary school and think to herself, it's hard to imagine that ponies my age might still be studying in there.
>>133196
Spark goes back down to the clinic, and is able to find the doctor again after knocking on the door. He looks past Spark
"Oh good, there's only one of you"
>>133197
She tries to lean back in the couch, and lies partly on her back
>>133198
Just looking, there are cantaloupes and purse bags at thee market. It looks mostly to be ponies, and those, mostly with longer fur. Amber can smell fruit and also cabbages.
The clock tower has tan colored bricks and stone, while the school is two stories with red brick.
Spark goes back down to the clinic, and is able to find the doctor again after knocking on the door. He looks past Spark
"Oh good, there's only one of you"
>>133197
She tries to lean back in the couch, and lies partly on her back
>>133198
Just looking, there are cantaloupes and purse bags at thee market. It looks mostly to be ponies, and those, mostly with longer fur. Amber can smell fruit and also cabbages.
The clock tower has tan colored bricks and stone, while the school is two stories with red brick.
>>133199
This might be a good place to buy groceries…
Amber ventures into the market to see the variety of goods and their prices. She also tries to calculate the distance between this market and her apartment. Should I roll for this?
This might be a good place to buy groceries…
Amber ventures into the market to see the variety of goods and their prices. She also tries to calculate the distance between this market and her apartment. Should I roll for this?
>>133202
It's a bit late now but maybe moving to this area would have been better. The atmosphere is definitely much better. She asks around what the prices of the cheapest apartments in the area are.
Gather information: [1d20+2 = 4]
It's a bit late now but maybe moving to this area would have been better. The atmosphere is definitely much better. She asks around what the prices of the cheapest apartments in the area are.
Gather information: [1d20+2 = 4]
>>133199
Silver smiles at her. He looks around at the gathered household.
"I would like to make an announcement, if you would listen."
Silver smiles at her. He looks around at the gathered household.
"I would like to make an announcement, if you would listen."
>>133207
Shucks, that's a disappointment. Amber will have to stick to the humble life. She resumes her way north, keeping an eye out for anything particularly interesting.
Shucks, that's a disappointment. Amber will have to stick to the humble life. She resumes her way north, keeping an eye out for anything particularly interesting.
>>133207
"I asked you all if you wished to come here to live. As I see it, that makes me responsible to ensure this household is provided for. So, starting now, I am going to be keeping portion of my reward for jobs I do away in safe that is going in master bedroom, for our household's use."
"I asked you all if you wished to come here to live. As I see it, that makes me responsible to ensure this household is provided for. So, starting now, I am going to be keeping portion of my reward for jobs I do away in safe that is going in master bedroom, for our household's use."
>>133208
The street merges diagonally with a main line road, and its a clear line of demarcation past it. Further north the road is more clearly inland, and to either side are older apartment buildings, may of which have trash that is not picked up, or have boarded up windows. A few buildings are even partly collapsed. To the right are mostly warehouses. Amber goes North
>>133209
Jubilosa's beak opens in part as she smiles at the news. Khoi's mouth, likewise opens in part, as her pupils become much wider, and her eyes fold back ever so slightly
The street merges diagonally with a main line road, and its a clear line of demarcation past it. Further north the road is more clearly inland, and to either side are older apartment buildings, may of which have trash that is not picked up, or have boarded up windows. A few buildings are even partly collapsed. To the right are mostly warehouses. Amber goes North
>>133209
Jubilosa's beak opens in part as she smiles at the news. Khoi's mouth, likewise opens in part, as her pupils become much wider, and her eyes fold back ever so slightly
>>133210
Amber picks up her pace into a steady trot, not quite liking the appearance–or the smell–of this neighborhood. She remains watchful, however.
Amber picks up her pace into a steady trot, not quite liking the appearance–or the smell–of this neighborhood. She remains watchful, however.
>>133210
"I will work on safe combination later, but I reason it would be irresponsible of me to not ensure you have Bits to spend when I am gone on job."
"I will work on safe combination later, but I reason it would be irresponsible of me to not ensure you have Bits to spend when I am gone on job."
Well, I remember how I read the dnd rule book and understood it. I don't remember anymore.
So Fantasy timetravel back into the past and then a small step into an alternate future where she has just signed on with the black hoofs. Duturu!
So Fantasy timetravel back into the past and then a small step into an alternate future where she has just signed on with the black hoofs. Duturu!
I am writing something else while keeping taps on the progress in this thread if you ever wonder why some responses take time.
>>133211
Further north, and off an a road to the right/east, there is a large brick building with a few police carts in front of it, and it doesn't look like a police station or jailhouse. Well, maybe it does. What does a jail look like?
>>133212
Khoi stands up, clearly astonished. Jubilosa seems half expecting it, but still pleased, and Mala just sits there.
>>133213
>>133214
*Poof*
Seabreeze nods
"Alright, I'll send her in"
He presses a button on his desk, and a Blue Pegasus enters the room - a light blue, almost white coat, and a medium dark blue mane. She wears a black uniform. After entering the room she sits in a seat across from Fantasy Play, staring at her with a strange, almost malicious smile.
"This is Blue Skies. She has some experience with training and guiding voluntary assistants."
Further north, and off an a road to the right/east, there is a large brick building with a few police carts in front of it, and it doesn't look like a police station or jailhouse. Well, maybe it does. What does a jail look like?
>>133212
Khoi stands up, clearly astonished. Jubilosa seems half expecting it, but still pleased, and Mala just sits there.
>>133213
>>133214
*Poof*
Seabreeze nods
"Alright, I'll send her in"
He presses a button on his desk, and a Blue Pegasus enters the room - a light blue, almost white coat, and a medium dark blue mane. She wears a black uniform. After entering the room she sits in a seat across from Fantasy Play, staring at her with a strange, almost malicious smile.
"This is Blue Skies. She has some experience with training and guiding voluntary assistants."
>>133215
Silver looks to Khoi, raising an eyebrow in surprise. He looks concerningly at her.
"Is everything okay?"
Silver looks to Khoi, raising an eyebrow in surprise. He looks concerningly at her.
"Is everything okay?"
>>133215
Odd place for a jail. But then again, it might just be the best place for it, not that I would know.
Amber approaches the ominous building curiously.
Odd place for a jail. But then again, it might just be the best place for it, not that I would know.
Amber approaches the ominous building curiously.
>>133218
She leans back in the chair
"So" she says. "What brings you here?"
>>133216
"Yes..." she says
>>133217
It's hard to determine precisely what the building is, but it's made of yellow-tan stone, or at least that is the facade. It has both police carts and those labelled as belonging to "R&M" outside of it, parked in a way that suggests this is not normal
She leans back in the chair
"So" she says. "What brings you here?"
>>133216
"Yes..." she says
>>133217
It's hard to determine precisely what the building is, but it's made of yellow-tan stone, or at least that is the facade. It has both police carts and those labelled as belonging to "R&M" outside of it, parked in a way that suggests this is not normal
Fantasy opens her smiling mouth and is about ot say something when she closes it again. She sighs as she realizes that she has to be serious for a second.
"You're the best alternative to get ponies their lands back."
"You're the best alternative to get ponies their lands back."
>>133219
Silver nods after a couple seconds of contemplation.
"Alright then. You know you are free to tell me whatever is on your mind when you want to, yes?"
Silver nods after a couple seconds of contemplation.
"Alright then. You know you are free to tell me whatever is on your mind when you want to, yes?"
>>133220
She answers
"Oh, so this is about West Equestria. For that, you may want to join the Army. In the SSA, our focus is on keeping the land we have. The Anarchists and the Communists want to try to rip away Baltimare and form their own Non-State, or join it in a larger "Equestrian Socialist Republic." Opposing these measures may seem less important, but without stable supply lines and lines of communication here, the larger empire cannot prevail deeper inland in Equestria,"
>>133221
"Well, it's just... why are you doing this?"
She answers
"Oh, so this is about West Equestria. For that, you may want to join the Army. In the SSA, our focus is on keeping the land we have. The Anarchists and the Communists want to try to rip away Baltimare and form their own Non-State, or join it in a larger "Equestrian Socialist Republic." Opposing these measures may seem less important, but without stable supply lines and lines of communication here, the larger empire cannot prevail deeper inland in Equestria,"
>>133221
"Well, it's just... why are you doing this?"
>>133222
"Oh! Well, I feel it is right thing to do, providing for household. It is worth it if I can improve quality of life for you."
"Oh! Well, I feel it is right thing to do, providing for household. It is worth it if I can improve quality of life for you."
>>133223
She looks up at him, and her tail seems to move down to a more relaxed position
"And I am part of household as a stranger?"
She looks up at him, and her tail seems to move down to a more relaxed position
"And I am part of household as a stranger?"
>>133222
Out of game:
So our the army fighting against the changelings or are they up fighting griffins? If they are fighting griffins why is she talking about west Equestria for? How are they more related to these issues than these guys. None ofthem seem to be fighting on that front anyway. I'm just asking. Not trying to be like mean or anything. I truly just don't get it and is more curious than anything.
I will try to make up a reason for staying in this place since I meet up with Amber.
Out of game:
So our the army fighting against the changelings or are they up fighting griffins? If they are fighting griffins why is she talking about west Equestria for? How are they more related to these issues than these guys. None ofthem seem to be fighting on that front anyway. I'm just asking. Not trying to be like mean or anything. I truly just don't get it and is more curious than anything.
I will try to make up a reason for staying in this place since I meet up with Amber.
our*
are
are
>>133224
Silver smiles at her, and nods.
"Of course you are Khoi. I would like to move past us being strangers, however."
Silver smiles at her, and nods.
"Of course you are Khoi. I would like to move past us being strangers, however."
>>133225
That faction is actively fighting griffins on a different continent, and has a truce with the Changelings. The truce with the Changelings isn't really expected to last very long, which is why she talks about it like it's an active war. Fantasy Play is much more likely to encounter changelings right there in Baltimare with the Blackhooves than in the Army.
Fantasy could probably also just leave and go find Amber
>>133227
"SSA" is the name of the branch, "Black Hooves" is the name of the political party. The blackhooves and the SSA are the same thing, she's just being more formal
That faction is actively fighting griffins on a different continent, and has a truce with the Changelings. The truce with the Changelings isn't really expected to last very long, which is why she talks about it like it's an active war. Fantasy Play is much more likely to encounter changelings right there in Baltimare with the Blackhooves than in the Army.
Fantasy could probably also just leave and go find Amber
>>133227
"SSA" is the name of the branch, "Black Hooves" is the name of the political party. The blackhooves and the SSA are the same thing, she's just being more formal
>>133228
She smiles
"Well, thank you. I am only just learning this new Equestrian version of Friendship."
She smiles
"Well, thank you. I am only just learning this new Equestrian version of Friendship."
>>133231
Well, then I'll keep to this city because I'll try to meet her after I'm done becoming a member of this SSA.
>>133222
"Eh, can't I just join them later when they start fighting on the west front again? I don't really care for where I help so long as I help and ponies who ldevote themselves to communism in this point in time can literally go fuck themselves," Fantasy says while waving her hood away dismissively at the end. "Besides, I don't wanna travel even more." She grins sheepishly and scratches the back of her head.
.
Well, then I'll keep to this city because I'll try to meet her after I'm done becoming a member of this SSA.
>>133222
"Eh, can't I just join them later when they start fighting on the west front again? I don't really care for where I help so long as I help and ponies who ldevote themselves to communism in this point in time can literally go fuck themselves," Fantasy says while waving her hood away dismissively at the end. "Besides, I don't wanna travel even more." She grins sheepishly and scratches the back of her head.
.
>>133233
"I assure you, if war breaks out with the Hegemony, the Army will be looking for recruits."
She smiles at the "go fuck themselves" part
"Don't worry. You're needed right here in Baltimare. Especially with so many agents transferred over to Manehattan."
"I assure you, if war breaks out with the Hegemony, the Army will be looking for recruits."
She smiles at the "go fuck themselves" part
"Don't worry. You're needed right here in Baltimare. Especially with so many agents transferred over to Manehattan."
>>133235
"The Hegemony? Is that what the changling nation... thing-" She rolls her hoof in the air. "-Is called? Regardless, I'm glad. I can conjure about illusions and sneak around, that's about it on me."
"The Hegemony? Is that what the changling nation... thing-" She rolls her hoof in the air. "-Is called? Regardless, I'm glad. I can conjure about illusions and sneak around, that's about it on me."
>>133239
"Oh, I was thinking of fixing stroganoff tonight for dinner. What do you all think of idea?"
"Oh, I was thinking of fixing stroganoff tonight for dinner. What do you all think of idea?"
>>133240
Khoi:
"What is Storganoff?"
Jubilosa:
"Uh, sure"
Mala just looks up at Silver
>>133241
She maintains thee slightly mischievous smile
"In a way. 'Anti-Partisan' is what our work is called. I collect information, work with informants, and look for faults in loyalty of local allies. Search and destroy, assassination, and Counter-espionage can be a part of the job, but are less common."
Khoi:
"What is Storganoff?"
Jubilosa:
"Uh, sure"
Mala just looks up at Silver
>>133241
She maintains thee slightly mischievous smile
"In a way. 'Anti-Partisan' is what our work is called. I collect information, work with informants, and look for faults in loyalty of local allies. Search and destroy, assassination, and Counter-espionage can be a part of the job, but are less common."
>>133242
"It is casarole native to my homeland. It has egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, mushrooms, and sour cream. I can also try my hooves at making meat option for you, Mala, so you can eat."
"It is casarole native to my homeland. It has egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, mushrooms, and sour cream. I can also try my hooves at making meat option for you, Mala, so you can eat."
>>133242
"Hmm," Fantasy mumbles and nods." I hope we can all can become friends. "She makes a quick nod owards Seabreeze. "I must warn you though, my mother, Diligeant Cookie, have told me that I'm annoying and immature. She used to say that I, `Put the wit in twit.´ The point is, I will evenutally prank both of you. It is just unevitable."
"Hmm," Fantasy mumbles and nods." I hope we can all can become friends. "She makes a quick nod owards Seabreeze. "I must warn you though, my mother, Diligeant Cookie, have told me that I'm annoying and immature. She used to say that I, `Put the wit in twit.´ The point is, I will evenutally prank both of you. It is just unevitable."
>>133243
Jubilosa and Mala nod at the description of the stroganoff. Khoi twists her mouth a little more skeptically
Mala pulls his lips back in an awkward smile that shows off his yellowed, sharp, jagged teeth
"I don't need meat in every meal..."
>>133244
Blue Skies scrunches
Sea Breeze smiles
"Well, I'll let Ms. Skies cut you into shape. I'm sure she an find a use for you."
Jubilosa and Mala nod at the description of the stroganoff. Khoi twists her mouth a little more skeptically
Mala pulls his lips back in an awkward smile that shows off his yellowed, sharp, jagged teeth
"I don't need meat in every meal..."
>>133244
Blue Skies scrunches
Sea Breeze smiles
"Well, I'll let Ms. Skies cut you into shape. I'm sure she an find a use for you."
>>133246
>Blue Skies scrunches
What is this feel?
"That sounds great. So now I have a senior shadowmare to follow. I'll not let you down master Blue Spies," Fantasy does a salute.
>Blue Skies scrunches
What is this feel?
"That sounds great. So now I have a senior shadowmare to follow. I'll not let you down master Blue Spies," Fantasy does a salute.
>>133247
A little unamused at being be the subject of a future prank
She twists her mouth in uncertainty at the pun of her name.
"Yes. Now you can help in intelligence gathering."
A little unamused at being be the subject of a future prank
She twists her mouth in uncertainty at the pun of her name.
"Yes. Now you can help in intelligence gathering."
>>133249
She tells Fantasy
"Well, we have an active patrol searching looking for the location of a hidden printing press. You can either join that now, or come back later."
She tells Fantasy
"Well, we have an active patrol searching looking for the location of a hidden printing press. You can either join that now, or come back later."
>>133250
Fantasy brings a hoof up to her chin for a moment before nodding.
"Ehh, let's do it. But i need material components for my spells. Can we buy them on the way?"
Fantasy brings a hoof up to her chin for a moment before nodding.
"Ehh, let's do it. But i need material components for my spells. Can we buy them on the way?"
>>133246
Silver smiles reassuringly to Khoi.
"It is good, I would recommend trying it at least."
He then turns to Mala.
"It is your choice, but I do not mind."
Silver smiles reassuringly to Khoi.
"It is good, I would recommend trying it at least."
He then turns to Mala.
"It is your choice, but I do not mind."
>>133252
"Well, they are mostly ordinary and weak illusion spells. My most powerfullest spells are invisbility and minor illusion. If we pass by the hotel I'm staying at we can pick up my cat familiar, he is my guru when it come to sneaking and I sneak better with him withh me, believe it or not," Fantasy says.
Spells:
0-level(6 known):
Prestidigitation
Dancing Lights
Ghost Sound
Open/Close
Mage Hand
Read Magic
1-level(4 known):
Disguise Self
Nystul’s Magic Aura
Silent Image
Ventriloquism
2-level (2 known):
Minor Image
Invisibility
So on my need to buy list:
A small quare of silk.
A parchment rolled up into a small cone.
A bit of fleece.
A clear crystal or mineral prism.
A short piece of copper wire.
A bit of wool or a small lump of wax.
An eyelash encased in a bit of gum arabic
"Well, they are mostly ordinary and weak illusion spells. My most powerfullest spells are invisbility and minor illusion. If we pass by the hotel I'm staying at we can pick up my cat familiar, he is my guru when it come to sneaking and I sneak better with him withh me, believe it or not," Fantasy says.
Spells:
0-level(6 known):
Prestidigitation
Dancing Lights
Ghost Sound
Open/Close
Mage Hand
Read Magic
1-level(4 known):
Disguise Self
Nystul’s Magic Aura
Silent Image
Ventriloquism
2-level (2 known):
Minor Image
Invisibility
So on my need to buy list:
A small quare of silk.
A parchment rolled up into a small cone.
A bit of fleece.
A clear crystal or mineral prism.
A short piece of copper wire.
A bit of wool or a small lump of wax.
An eyelash encased in a bit of gum arabic
>>133255
"Huh... Well those could be rather useful"
Unless there is some desire to play out the acquisition of the components, or the acquisition of components was just a cover for some other activity, let's assume that over a period of an hour or less Fantasy Play acquired all of the required components and Mr. Snuggles I think that's the cat's name. Blue Skies often watches over Fantasy's shoulders, observing her actions as if not trusting her. But she also disappears for a period of time, only later showing up on the street.
>>133256
Silver does so
"Huh... Well those could be rather useful"
Unless there is some desire to play out the acquisition of the components, or the acquisition of components was just a cover for some other activity, let's assume that over a period of an hour or less Fantasy Play acquired all of the required components and Mr. Snuggles I think that's the cat's name. Blue Skies often watches over Fantasy's shoulders, observing her actions as if not trusting her. But she also disappears for a period of time, only later showing up on the street.
>>133256
Silver does so
>>133257
That sounds fine. The cat's anme was Slogo but Mr. Snuggles sounds better, or more fitting in this universe, so we retcon it to be his name.
"Master Blue skies. Where were you?" Fantasy asks the reappearing pony she meets onthe street. Is this fine?
That sounds fine. The cat's anme was Slogo but Mr. Snuggles sounds better, or more fitting in this universe, so we retcon it to be his name.
"Master Blue skies. Where were you?" Fantasy asks the reappearing pony she meets onthe street. Is this fine?
>>133258
She pulls back, spreads her wings out in part. and then stands up straight moving her head forward. She is not wearing her uniform, or anything else.
"Are you ready?" She asks
She pulls back, spreads her wings out in part. and then stands up straight moving her head forward. She is not wearing her uniform, or anything else.
"Are you ready?" She asks
>>133259
"Ehh, why are you n-nude?" she ask while pretending to be nervous and with a smile on her lips.
"Ehh, why are you n-nude?" she ask while pretending to be nervous and with a smile on her lips.
>>133260
She looks down and over herself, then back to Fantasy Play, smiling
"I can't wear a marked uniform. That would defeat the point. Thus I wear nothing. I don't think the stallions we meet will mind."
She looks down and over herself, then back to Fantasy Play, smiling
"I can't wear a marked uniform. That would defeat the point. Thus I wear nothing. I don't think the stallions we meet will mind."
>>133261
"Say no more, say no more. Wink wink nudge nudge," Fantasy says and winks at the pegasus. She begains to follow the mare.
Fantasy has a brown cloak on though and like a bag or something with belongings. Snuggles is snggling ontop her back.
"Say no more, say no more. Wink wink nudge nudge," Fantasy says and winks at the pegasus. She begains to follow the mare.
Fantasy has a brown cloak on though and like a bag or something with belongings. Snuggles is snggling ontop her back.
>>133262
"Now, what we're trying to do, is to locate a printing press being used to spread dissent. An informant showed us a paper printed by one, and it contained many statements that shouldn't be spread, like details about the uprising in Manehattan, and anti-government propaganda. We believe the printing press is being operated by the Anarchists, but it doesn't really matter who is operating it because it needs to be shut down regardless. We can shut it down ourselves, or just note the location so a raid can take it down later."
"Now, what we're trying to do, is to locate a printing press being used to spread dissent. An informant showed us a paper printed by one, and it contained many statements that shouldn't be spread, like details about the uprising in Manehattan, and anti-government propaganda. We believe the printing press is being operated by the Anarchists, but it doesn't really matter who is operating it because it needs to be shut down regardless. We can shut it down ourselves, or just note the location so a raid can take it down later."
>>133264
>Sherlock Pones
Okay, that's a pretty great one
"Well, we know it was sold on twenty eighth and Laffter street. Do you mean like where the ink was acquired from, or the paper?"
>Sherlock Pones
Okay, that's a pretty great one
"Well, we know it was sold on twenty eighth and Laffter street. Do you mean like where the ink was acquired from, or the paper?"
>>133265
Thanks!
"Really anything. But really, I'm no detective so giving me teh information would be a waste of time. Just tell me what to do and I'll do it, Master Blue Skies."
Thanks!
"Really anything. But really, I'm no detective so giving me teh information would be a waste of time. Just tell me what to do and I'll do it, Master Blue Skies."
>>133266
"It's hard to say exactly how to do it, and really, there isn't just one right way to do it. But remember that the anarchists don't know that you aren't one of them. You can just talk to them, ask them who does what, say you were a paper girl when you were younger, ask some questions like if they need help with ink supplies or distribution, or anything like that, and soon you could get much closer. I get by usually with just lies, but since you have magic, well, you can probably do even more."
"It's hard to say exactly how to do it, and really, there isn't just one right way to do it. But remember that the anarchists don't know that you aren't one of them. You can just talk to them, ask them who does what, say you were a paper girl when you were younger, ask some questions like if they need help with ink supplies or distribution, or anything like that, and soon you could get much closer. I get by usually with just lies, but since you have magic, well, you can probably do even more."
>>133219
I thought the session cut out abruptly, turns out my VPN needed to be updated abruptly. Just as well because I've slept the entire interval.
Amber frowns and looks for an entrance to the odd structure, or at least a policepony standing around.
I thought the session cut out abruptly, turns out my VPN needed to be updated abruptly. Just as well because I've slept the entire interval.
Amber frowns and looks for an entrance to the odd structure, or at least a policepony standing around.
>>133269
Amber approaches the uniformed pony and politely asks, "Excuse me mister, but is this a local jail? I'm new to this part of town and this building just feels…off, somehow."
Amber approaches the uniformed pony and politely asks, "Excuse me mister, but is this a local jail? I'm new to this part of town and this building just feels…off, somehow."
>>133270
She blinks
"What? No? Well, sort of. It used to be the old debtors prison, more than a century ago. But it isn't now. Right now it is a crime scene. Some sort of cult or something, and these foreigners and their mercenaries weren't very delicate in putting it down."
She blinks
"What? No? Well, sort of. It used to be the old debtors prison, more than a century ago. But it isn't now. Right now it is a crime scene. Some sort of cult or something, and these foreigners and their mercenaries weren't very delicate in putting it down."
Okay, I have to sleep for tonight, but I hope everypony comes back to play soon. Post here when you can
Fantasy Play. The mare. The myth. The legend.
Tonight on Adventurers Extra we'll look into the story of Fantasy Play and hopw se went from being a nopony illusionist from Nuzzleville to becomning the greatest pony that has ever live!!!1111
Right after these messages.
Tonight on Adventurers Extra we'll look into the story of Fantasy Play and hopw se went from being a nopony illusionist from Nuzzleville to becomning the greatest pony that has ever live!!!1111
Right after these messages.
>>133267
Fantasy looks upwards while she walks.
"Then we have to find some anarchists in the first place," Fantasy says.
Fantasy looks upwards while she walks.
"Then we have to find some anarchists in the first place," Fantasy says.
>>133297
"Well, that should be pretty straight forward. Our informant told us there is a mane parlor at that location where the pamphlet was acquired."
"Well, that should be pretty straight forward. Our informant told us there is a mane parlor at that location where the pamphlet was acquired."
>>133300
Fantasy bites her underlip.
"Well, my ideas are bit crazy. The least crazy idea I have is to find one anarchist with pamhplets and then tail them," Fantasy says.
Fantasy bites her underlip.
"Well, my ideas are bit crazy. The least crazy idea I have is to find one anarchist with pamhplets and then tail them," Fantasy says.
>>133305
Amber blinks and folds her ears back in shock. "That's…that's horrible! How could ponies have such evil intentions toward each other?"
She looks away for a second and back to the policemare. "You said customs agents…do you mean like at the immigration building near the fort?"
Amber blinks and folds her ears back in shock. "That's…that's horrible! How could ponies have such evil intentions toward each other?"
She looks away for a second and back to the policemare. "You said customs agents…do you mean like at the immigration building near the fort?"
>>133305
"Mm." Fantsy brings up a hoof to her chin. "Truth be told, Master Sky, I don't think I'll make a very convincing anarchist. I just can't fathom why a pony now of all times would do something so detrimental to themselves and other ponies. All I can imagne is that they base their view entirely on misconceptions and misinformation but if I'm wrong and play up a strawpony version of their beliefs they could use this to set us up or something,"
"Mm." Fantsy brings up a hoof to her chin. "Truth be told, Master Sky, I don't think I'll make a very convincing anarchist. I just can't fathom why a pony now of all times would do something so detrimental to themselves and other ponies. All I can imagne is that they base their view entirely on misconceptions and misinformation but if I'm wrong and play up a strawpony version of their beliefs they could use this to set us up or something,"
>>133306
"Mhmm, it's terrible what creatures can do to each other. Well, sort of like that place. These 'customs' agents are mostly from across the sea, and their hired help."
>>133307
"Then it sounds to me like it isn't your style to pose as an anarchist. Maybe there's another way for you to accomplish the same. We know that there is a building somewhere in this city that has a printing press in the basement or the lower floor printing banned reports out of the Manehattan District. We have a few of their pamplets. What we don't know is which building it is."
"Mhmm, it's terrible what creatures can do to each other. Well, sort of like that place. These 'customs' agents are mostly from across the sea, and their hired help."
>>133307
"Then it sounds to me like it isn't your style to pose as an anarchist. Maybe there's another way for you to accomplish the same. We know that there is a building somewhere in this city that has a printing press in the basement or the lower floor printing banned reports out of the Manehattan District. We have a few of their pamplets. What we don't know is which building it is."
>>133313
She nods, maintaining eye contact
"Yes. Them. And they have a very rough approach to smuggling. Left quite a few of them dead."
She nods, maintaining eye contact
"Yes. Them. And they have a very rough approach to smuggling. Left quite a few of them dead."
>>133308
"Are you sugguesting we should sneak into supicious lookin' builings and check them? Because that sounds like something I would be good at," Fantasy says pushes out her chest.
"Are you sugguesting we should sneak into supicious lookin' builings and check them? Because that sounds like something I would be good at," Fantasy says pushes out her chest.
>>133317
She smiles back
"If only. But there are too many suspicious buildings in the city to check them all. You have no idea how many block owners are too poor to fix explosion damage... or are missing altogether. First, to narrow down the number of buildings to search."
She smiles back
"If only. But there are too many suspicious buildings in the city to check them all. You have no idea how many block owners are too poor to fix explosion damage... or are missing altogether. First, to narrow down the number of buildings to search."
>>133316
Amber winces. "And I don't think there can be much done about it, if they're the ones who did it." Frowning, she adds, "Is there no more justice in this land anymore?"
Amber winces. "And I don't think there can be much done about it, if they're the ones who did it." Frowning, she adds, "Is there no more justice in this land anymore?"
>>133320
"I'm sorry to bother you like this, ma'am. It must be a plain awful thing to have to deal with."
"I'm sorry to bother you like this, ma'am. It must be a plain awful thing to have to deal with."
>>133321
"Normally they don't have to do anything with our normal work. We deal with actual crime, after all. It's just on rare occasions like these, they want to claim jurisdiction over what is clearly a criminal matter."
"Normally they don't have to do anything with our normal work. We deal with actual crime, after all. It's just on rare occasions like these, they want to claim jurisdiction over what is clearly a criminal matter."
>>133322
Nodding, Amber replies, "I knew ponies didn't like them, but I didn't know they would do things like this…"
Nodding, Amber replies, "I knew ponies didn't like them, but I didn't know they would do things like this…"
>>133323
"You have no idea what it was like inside when we found it. It was nothing less than a massacre"
"You have no idea what it was like inside when we found it. It was nothing less than a massacre"
>>133318
Fantasy rolls her lips in and out of her mouth.
"Well, I can try talking to those anarchists if ytou want. I guess it wouldn't hurt. Though, I do wonder how you get around. Don't these ponies communicate with each other? Wouldn't they notice you after while?"
Fantasy rolls her lips in and out of her mouth.
"Well, I can try talking to those anarchists if ytou want. I guess it wouldn't hurt. Though, I do wonder how you get around. Don't these ponies communicate with each other? Wouldn't they notice you after while?"
>>133325
She shakes her head
"They don't have much care for the refugees, and it didn't help that the smugglers were a little... rough themselves."
>>133326
She smiles in a mischievous way
"I have my ways... The key is to just never let them connect you with the misfortunes in their lives. Don't be there when things turn sour. But our informant suggest he got it from the ponies at the mane parlor."
>>133326
She shakes her head
"They don't have much care for the refugees, and it didn't help that the smugglers were a little... rough themselves."
>>133326
She smiles in a mischievous way
"I have my ways... The key is to just never let them connect you with the misfortunes in their lives. Don't be there when things turn sour. But our informant suggest he got it from the ponies at the mane parlor."
>>133326
>>133328
"I can understand that. Baltimare has been comparatively peaceful. Maybe not as peaceful as Vanhoover or Canterlot, but more so than Manehattan. I don't like it spreading here. Gang violence especially."
"I can understand that. Baltimare has been comparatively peaceful. Maybe not as peaceful as Vanhoover or Canterlot, but more so than Manehattan. I don't like it spreading here. Gang violence especially."
>>133330
"I don't know what books you read, but they are very real here. Organized crime syndicates running crime like a business. When they clash, it can be like wars."
"I don't know what books you read, but they are very real here. Organized crime syndicates running crime like a business. When they clash, it can be like wars."
>>133327
Fantasy scratches her mane.
"Sure, I'm ready to go there but the more I think about this the more I wonder if this will work. It feels like only a few high up ponies would be in on the location of the printers and they would probably keep low profile with their views in public. A mission like this is more of a longer undercover infiltartion mission were one would have to rise in the ranks to even gain valueable clues or I'm I overestimating them?"
Fantasy scratches her mane.
"Sure, I'm ready to go there but the more I think about this the more I wonder if this will work. It feels like only a few high up ponies would be in on the location of the printers and they would probably keep low profile with their views in public. A mission like this is more of a longer undercover infiltartion mission were one would have to rise in the ranks to even gain valueable clues or I'm I overestimating them?"
>>133331
"Old books where everypony is poor and ponies try to take advantage of each other. I always thought it was exaggerated, or at least happened a long time ago…" She continues, "I hadn't seen any signs of gangs before around here, not that I've been around very long."
Who's the pony version of Dickens?
"Old books where everypony is poor and ponies try to take advantage of each other. I always thought it was exaggerated, or at least happened a long time ago…" She continues, "I hadn't seen any signs of gangs before around here, not that I've been around very long."
Who's the pony version of Dickens?
>>133332
"Possible, yes, but i think you over estimate how organized the Anarchists are. These printing presses are kind of hard to acquire and to stock with paper and ink. Radios to gain the information from across the continent are just as hard. Just start asking about ink and soon enough you'll find somepony who wants help stocking more. Or track down whoever is distributing the papers and find out who they get it from. If we were dealing with communists, you could expect more secrecy and discretion."
>>133333
If only I knew...
"No, it's definitely hear in the city, preying on the poor and downtrodden. But it's been less violent."
"Possible, yes, but i think you over estimate how organized the Anarchists are. These printing presses are kind of hard to acquire and to stock with paper and ink. Radios to gain the information from across the continent are just as hard. Just start asking about ink and soon enough you'll find somepony who wants help stocking more. Or track down whoever is distributing the papers and find out who they get it from. If we were dealing with communists, you could expect more secrecy and discretion."
>>133333
If only I knew...
"No, it's definitely hear in the city, preying on the poor and downtrodden. But it's been less violent."
>>133334
Fantasy nods.
"Let's go to that Mane parlor, then. But I wanted t discuss something before we did."
Fantasy nods.
"Let's go to that Mane parlor, then. But I wanted t discuss something before we did."
>>133336
Fantasy scratches the side of her neck and looks away.
"While I might act tough, I have never killed a pony. If such a situation would arise, I'm not sure what to do."
Fantasy scratches the side of her neck and looks away.
"While I might act tough, I have never killed a pony. If such a situation would arise, I'm not sure what to do."
>>133346
Now her grin is more playful
"And you shall not have to kill a pony. We are only dealing with Anarchists here."
Then she drops her smile for a more serious expression
"Our employer prefers that no one dies. Not even in self defense, and especially that we do shoot first. But if you have to, I think you'll know what to do. And if you still don't, I do."
>>133337
She sighs
"These ones don't target just new comers, but immigrants. Creatures who the government doesn't even know were ever here."
Now her grin is more playful
"And you shall not have to kill a pony. We are only dealing with Anarchists here."
Then she drops her smile for a more serious expression
"Our employer prefers that no one dies. Not even in self defense, and especially that we do shoot first. But if you have to, I think you'll know what to do. And if you still don't, I do."
>>133337
She sighs
"These ones don't target just new comers, but immigrants. Creatures who the government doesn't even know were ever here."
>>133347
"Sounds plumb awful to be in a position like that, wher ponies don't even know you're there."
"Sounds plumb awful to be in a position like that, wher ponies don't even know you're there."
>>133347
Fantasy hangs her head but peers upwards towards Skies as she talks. She nods at the end.
"Well, then lead the way, Master Sky."
Fantasy hangs her head but peers upwards towards Skies as she talks. She nods at the end.
"Well, then lead the way, Master Sky."
>>133348
She nods
"And easy to exploit like that. Very vulnerable. But that's the position they often find themselves in when they enter the city."
>>133349
She takes the two to twenty-eighth street, and then to where it intersects with Laffter street. There, they find "Merrily Minted Manes," a barber shop or beauty parlor of sorts on the first floor of what seems to be a two story building. The glass allows some ability to see inside, and it looks to be open.
Skies takes a special note of a piece of cloth, and words written on a piece of cardboard displayed in the window over to the left
"The red and black flag... 'We support the Unions and the right to organize'"
She nods
"And easy to exploit like that. Very vulnerable. But that's the position they often find themselves in when they enter the city."
>>133349
She takes the two to twenty-eighth street, and then to where it intersects with Laffter street. There, they find "Merrily Minted Manes," a barber shop or beauty parlor of sorts on the first floor of what seems to be a two story building. The glass allows some ability to see inside, and it looks to be open.
Skies takes a special note of a piece of cloth, and words written on a piece of cardboard displayed in the window over to the left
"The red and black flag... 'We support the Unions and the right to organize'"
>>133350
Amber frowns. "It has to be very difficult to see all this still going on when your job is to stop it."
Amber frowns. "It has to be very difficult to see all this still going on when your job is to stop it."
"We can pray that justice will be done. Thank you for trying to make things better."
If the officer has nothing else to say, Amber will slowly head off.
If the officer has nothing else to say, Amber will slowly head off.
>>133350
"Well, I guess I could go for a new mane style," Fantasy
Play says playfully and drags a hoof through her thick brown hair which bangs reaches down equally far down on all sides of her head while remaining above her nose's level.
"Well, I guess I could go for a new mane style," Fantasy
Play says playfully and drags a hoof through her thick brown hair which bangs reaches down equally far down on all sides of her head while remaining above her nose's level.
>>133357
"Ain't quite right? Shit's pretty fucked here. There's some strange cultist shit here, let me tell you. Moon cultists got nothin' on it. You shoulda' seen it when we first got here."
>>133358
No receptionist. She is clearly a barber, cutting the hair of a zebra stallion. She looks over to the two entering mares. As to where there is anypony else in there...
[1d2 = 2]
"
"Ain't quite right? Shit's pretty fucked here. There's some strange cultist shit here, let me tell you. Moon cultists got nothin' on it. You shoulda' seen it when we first got here."
>>133358
No receptionist. She is clearly a barber, cutting the hair of a zebra stallion. She looks over to the two entering mares. As to where there is anypony else in there...
[1d2 = 2]
"
>>133360
Amber's ears flip back at the use of such rough speech–at least she instinctively senses its vulgarity. However, curiosity gets the better of her. "What do you mean, sir? I thought it was about smugglers and customs agents."
Amber's ears flip back at the use of such rough speech–at least she instinctively senses its vulgarity. However, curiosity gets the better of her. "What do you mean, sir? I thought it was about smugglers and customs agents."
>>133362
"Smugglers and customs? Ha! These hook beaked wanker were doing some weird equine sacrifice kind of ritual. Would you like to see what remains? They cleaned up all the bodies but you can still see most of the blood. There were some wicked shit in their, like a meat market."
>>133364
She smiles, with her light blue mane elegantly moving over to the side.
"Oh, I'm almost done here if you want to wait. But you can make an appointment if you like" Her voice is kind of soft
[1d3 = 2]
"Smugglers and customs? Ha! These hook beaked wanker were doing some weird equine sacrifice kind of ritual. Would you like to see what remains? They cleaned up all the bodies but you can still see most of the blood. There were some wicked shit in their, like a meat market."
>>133364
She smiles, with her light blue mane elegantly moving over to the side.
"Oh, I'm almost done here if you want to wait. But you can make an appointment if you like" Her voice is kind of soft
[1d3 = 2]
>>133365
"We can wait," Fantasy says, smiles back, and looks around for some stols to sit on while waiting.
"We can wait," Fantasy says, smiles back, and looks around for some stols to sit on while waiting.
>>133365
Amber strongly grimaces. "Um, er, n-no…I–I really think–I beg your pardon for this–but I think it must have been something else. C-cults are from stories–good st-stories I might add–but nopony actually believes in them." She looks around in a perturbed fashion.
Amber strongly grimaces. "Um, er, n-no…I–I really think–I beg your pardon for this–but I think it must have been something else. C-cults are from stories–good st-stories I might add–but nopony actually believes in them." She looks around in a perturbed fashion.
>>133366
There's a few simple chairs near the entrance for Fantasy, unless she wants to commandeer a barber's chair.
It's only a few more cuts, and maybe three minutes before she is done with the stallion. He looks at her and smiles, says "thank you minty," and she smiles to him and says "see you on the line," and he raises his hoof to her. No exchange of money takes place there before he leaves. She looks over to Fantasy with dark blue eyes and says. "Well young filly, I do believe you're next." She smiles in a charming enough way.
>>133367
"Oh well this'll make a believer out of ya. There were wearing robes in a heated building and were all gathered around this old stallion that got stabbed to death or something, and let me tell you they had this altar in the center of like an old chapel. And they had a stallion on a slab cut from his neck down to his junk. And this stallion was still alive, like some back woods surgery shit going on here, but there was no surgery or doctor. And they did the same thing to a deer. I'd never seen a deer before but fuck me, they had one on a slab like it's a damn nightmare night treat offering."
There's a few simple chairs near the entrance for Fantasy, unless she wants to commandeer a barber's chair.
It's only a few more cuts, and maybe three minutes before she is done with the stallion. He looks at her and smiles, says "thank you minty," and she smiles to him and says "see you on the line," and he raises his hoof to her. No exchange of money takes place there before he leaves. She looks over to Fantasy with dark blue eyes and says. "Well young filly, I do believe you're next." She smiles in a charming enough way.
>>133367
"Oh well this'll make a believer out of ya. There were wearing robes in a heated building and were all gathered around this old stallion that got stabbed to death or something, and let me tell you they had this altar in the center of like an old chapel. And they had a stallion on a slab cut from his neck down to his junk. And this stallion was still alive, like some back woods surgery shit going on here, but there was no surgery or doctor. And they did the same thing to a deer. I'd never seen a deer before but fuck me, they had one on a slab like it's a damn nightmare night treat offering."
>>133368
Amber initially says nothing but remains still with a fearful expression, her eye twitching. See >pic related
Eventually she meekly inquires, "But…but what about the mercenaries? What did they have to do with it?"
Amber initially says nothing but remains still with a fearful expression, her eye twitching. See >pic related
Eventually she meekly inquires, "But…but what about the mercenaries? What did they have to do with it?"
>>133368
Fantasy walks to a barber stol and sits down. She looks into the mirror and shakes her head a bit so her mane's fringe falls forward and actually cover her eyes.
Now she can't see.
"What do you think? My friend over there have been moaning on me to get a hair-cut but I don't see what the problem is?"
Fantasy walks to a barber stol and sits down. She looks into the mirror and shakes her head a bit so her mane's fringe falls forward and actually cover her eyes.
Now she can't see.
"What do you think? My friend over there have been moaning on me to get a hair-cut but I don't see what the problem is?"
>>133369
"Aye. Half the office is over up in Manehattan huntin' snipe or something and the other half's chekin' fruit crates in the harbor, so the agency pawns off handlin' smugglers to the anti-partisans, who just promise we'll pay them for every live alien they turn in. Heheheh, didn't do a very good job at that. You shoulda seen the main hall. One of them poor hook nosed bastards was roasted like a chicken that got caught in the electric fence. There was blood and oil everywhere on the floor. Did somethin' similar in the chapel. You shoulda seen the ones they tied down and captured. They were scared shitless."
>>133370
"Hehe" she smiles, and pulls aside her mane with her hoof
"Let's get this cut to something a little more... stylish. Just a little. And a little more practical."
"Aye. Half the office is over up in Manehattan huntin' snipe or something and the other half's chekin' fruit crates in the harbor, so the agency pawns off handlin' smugglers to the anti-partisans, who just promise we'll pay them for every live alien they turn in. Heheheh, didn't do a very good job at that. You shoulda seen the main hall. One of them poor hook nosed bastards was roasted like a chicken that got caught in the electric fence. There was blood and oil everywhere on the floor. Did somethin' similar in the chapel. You shoulda seen the ones they tied down and captured. They were scared shitless."
>>133370
"Hehe" she smiles, and pulls aside her mane with her hoof
"Let's get this cut to something a little more... stylish. Just a little. And a little more practical."
>>133371
Amber is obviously not very comfortable and starts edging away. "I see. I'm glad I wasn't allowed in after all…"
Amber is obviously not very comfortable and starts edging away. "I see. I'm glad I wasn't allowed in after all…"
>>133372
"Well don't you worry, little filly"
He actually reaches out and touches her, patting the top of her head
"Because now you won't have to worry about being kidnapped and dragged in, like at least one colt was."
"Well don't you worry, little filly"
He actually reaches out and touches her, patting the top of her head
"Because now you won't have to worry about being kidnapped and dragged in, like at least one colt was."
>>133373
She lowers her head after the fact, looking up at him with a plaintive expression. "K-k-kidnapped?"
Autistic note: the term from the show is "foalnapped"
She lowers her head after the fact, looking up at him with a plaintive expression. "K-k-kidnapped?"
Autistic note: the term from the show is "foalnapped"
>>133371
"I used to sing sonbird's serenade's songs when I was filly so I got a similar cut. Well, something that cover your eyes when you want but a bowl cut isn't really the same her layered bangs."
"I used to sing sonbird's serenade's songs when I was filly so I got a similar cut. Well, something that cover your eyes when you want but a bowl cut isn't really the same her layered bangs."
>>133375
"Well, Songbird Serande's old style it to have set of bangs forward over the eyes, and then move the hair that normally would fall to the side into two sets that move forward in another layer. So two larger layers of bangs facing forward. And that isn't quite what you've got going here..." She says, looking at the bowl cut with an almost concerned expression
>>133374
"Aye. He witnessed a murder or something, so they foalnappened him, right off the street. He was rescued though, thank Celestia. Sent back to his mum."
"Well, Songbird Serande's old style it to have set of bangs forward over the eyes, and then move the hair that normally would fall to the side into two sets that move forward in another layer. So two larger layers of bangs facing forward. And that isn't quite what you've got going here..." She says, looking at the bowl cut with an almost concerned expression
>>133374
"Aye. He witnessed a murder or something, so they foalnappened him, right off the street. He was rescued though, thank Celestia. Sent back to his mum."
Next time on, "The Adventures of Fantasy Play and some other guys:" Fantasy Play and Amber Sunset go to the My chemical Romance concert but in for a big surprize.
>>133379
That was just so bizarre! Was he pulling my hoof?
But then, how could he make up things like that…
Disoriented and brooding over what just transpired, Amber doesn't have anywhere specific to go. Perhaps her legs will lead her someplace without her realizing it, or perhaps she'll get a nudge from an unlikely source.
It's too early to go home–and I don't want to go home with that fresh on my mind–and too late to be exploring a whole other part of the city…
>>133378
Nice title, poor music taste. Then again, I don't know the 1940's equivalent of MCR either.
That was just so bizarre! Was he pulling my hoof?
But then, how could he make up things like that…
Disoriented and brooding over what just transpired, Amber doesn't have anywhere specific to go. Perhaps her legs will lead her someplace without her realizing it, or perhaps she'll get a nudge from an unlikely source.
It's too early to go home–and I don't want to go home with that fresh on my mind–and too late to be exploring a whole other part of the city…
>>133378
Nice title, poor music taste. Then again, I don't know the 1940's equivalent of MCR either.
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>>133376
"Hey. Don't be mean," Fantasy Says but with still a playfull smile on her face. "Dad was a simple blacksmith in a village and I had a lot of siblings. He didn't wanna waste the money on getting us fancy mane-cuts so my mom did the best she could."
"Hey. Don't be mean," Fantasy Says but with still a playfull smile on her face. "Dad was a simple blacksmith in a village and I had a lot of siblings. He didn't wanna waste the money on getting us fancy mane-cuts so my mom did the best she could."
>>133424
>>133423
She scrunches for a moment, but then has a look on her face like she is genuinely sorry for the statement.
"I see. There are often not many options for families. Well, you're here in the chair right now, so I assume you want a change. So tell me, are you trying to impress a stallion? Trying to fit some idea of 'professional' for a new job? Do you just want to change how you look? Or are you tired of running into lampposts?"
>>133423
She scrunches for a moment, but then has a look on her face like she is genuinely sorry for the statement.
"I see. There are often not many options for families. Well, you're here in the chair right now, so I assume you want a change. So tell me, are you trying to impress a stallion? Trying to fit some idea of 'professional' for a new job? Do you just want to change how you look? Or are you tired of running into lampposts?"
>>133426
Fantasy giggles and puts a hoof to her mouth. Then she pushes her lips together.
"Mmm... I guess I just want a new look," Fantasy says and taps her cheek as she ponders. "But I guess this board spread of hair-" Fantasy brings her hooves up to her hair and then spread tehm over the her mane. "-is so tightly connected with my own idenity by this point that I don't want to change it too much. Mmm... Would it be possible to get Songbird Serande's old look-" Fantasy lookas a bit away as she says this and a blush appears on her cheek. "-but maybe a bit shorter so that I don't need to move my mane out of the way all the time?"
Fantasy giggles and puts a hoof to her mouth. Then she pushes her lips together.
"Mmm... I guess I just want a new look," Fantasy says and taps her cheek as she ponders. "But I guess this board spread of hair-" Fantasy brings her hooves up to her hair and then spread tehm over the her mane. "-is so tightly connected with my own idenity by this point that I don't want to change it too much. Mmm... Would it be possible to get Songbird Serande's old look-" Fantasy lookas a bit away as she says this and a blush appears on her cheek. "-but maybe a bit shorter so that I don't need to move my mane out of the way all the time?"
>board
A wooden one to be specific.
A wooden one to be specific.
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>>133430
The pony rears up on her hind legs and holds herself there, standing behind and over Fantasy as both look into the mirror. She places her forehooves on each side of Fantasy’s head.
“Yes, though keeping it that way is going to require maintenance. We just pull this up here” she pulls some of Fantasy’s mane around her ears up and forward “layer it, cut the first layer, and maybe pulls some of the mane back here up and over” she pulls on a section of Fahtasy’s mane further back. “And we cut it all short enough so you can see, walking forward.” Of course fantasy can’t necessarily see what she is doing, but she can feel it.
The pony rears up on her hind legs and holds herself there, standing behind and over Fantasy as both look into the mirror. She places her forehooves on each side of Fantasy’s head.
“Yes, though keeping it that way is going to require maintenance. We just pull this up here” she pulls some of Fantasy’s mane around her ears up and forward “layer it, cut the first layer, and maybe pulls some of the mane back here up and over” she pulls on a section of Fahtasy’s mane further back. “And we cut it all short enough so you can see, walking forward.” Of course fantasy can’t necessarily see what she is doing, but she can feel it.
>>133433
"That actually sounds great! I guess if I should go for full cosplay I need to get large pink bowtie as well." Her head turns towards where Blue Skies is. "What do you think, Cloudy? You think it would look cute on me?"
"That actually sounds great! I guess if I should go for full cosplay I need to get large pink bowtie as well." Her head turns towards where Blue Skies is. "What do you think, Cloudy? You think it would look cute on me?"
>>133434
Blue Skies:
“If you’re dressing up for the concert in Fillydelphia, you can certainly try. You’re missing the wings though, so you won’t quite look like her.” She smiles back
Blue Skies:
“If you’re dressing up for the concert in Fillydelphia, you can certainly try. You’re missing the wings though, so you won’t quite look like her.” She smiles back
>>133435
Fantasy chuckles and smirks after that.
"I guess I'll have to cutout some wings from cardboards and attach. Mmm. Yeah, I think I'll go with it actually."
Fantasy chuckles and smirks after that.
"I guess I'll have to cutout some wings from cardboards and attach. Mmm. Yeah, I think I'll go with it actually."
>>133437
This makes the earth mare chuckle
“Now let’s get started”
She pulls up fantasy’s mane, and motions to cut it
This makes the earth mare chuckle
“Now let’s get started”
She pulls up fantasy’s mane, and motions to cut it
>>133439
"I'm Broomstick by the way," Fantasy says. "But you can call me Broomie. Uh, I'm sorry perhaps you can't focus when somepony is talking?"
"I'm Broomstick by the way," Fantasy says. "But you can call me Broomie. Uh, I'm sorry perhaps you can't focus when somepony is talking?"
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>>133439
>>133440
The mare pushes her bangs down, cuts it straight across, and then gathers a set of hair that normally falls to the side in two separate bunches, cutting them straight across and making them fall forward. Then she moves on to a third layer. Fantasy can swiftly tell that her ears do much of the work in keeping the mane in place, as much of it would want to fall to the side. She doesn’t do a bad job at imitating Songbird’s style, but it seems to be missing something with the front layer of the bangs cut above the mane.
Fantasy has plenty of time to talk or ask questions as this process is going on
>>133441
“Well hello Broomstick. That’s a pretty neat name. My name is Minty Mane, the owner of this shop.” She takes another piece of hair. “No, I can talk”
>>133440
The mare pushes her bangs down, cuts it straight across, and then gathers a set of hair that normally falls to the side in two separate bunches, cutting them straight across and making them fall forward. Then she moves on to a third layer. Fantasy can swiftly tell that her ears do much of the work in keeping the mane in place, as much of it would want to fall to the side. She doesn’t do a bad job at imitating Songbird’s style, but it seems to be missing something with the front layer of the bangs cut above the mane.
Fantasy has plenty of time to talk or ask questions as this process is going on
>>133441
“Well hello Broomstick. That’s a pretty neat name. My name is Minty Mane, the owner of this shop.” She takes another piece of hair. “No, I can talk”
>>133446
"Well, Maybe for another day. I'm not sure if I'm ready for that yet and besides, if I colored my mane in black and yellow, then everypony would know who I was imitating and I would be could be a bit embarrassing. Anwyay, you said this mane would require maintenance."
"Well, Maybe for another day. I'm not sure if I'm ready for that yet and besides, if I colored my mane in black and yellow, then everypony would know who I was imitating and I would be could be a bit embarrassing. Anwyay, you said this mane would require maintenance."
>>133447
“I can understand that. A mane is an essential part of a mare’s identity, and you want it to reflect both who inspires you but also a bit of yourself. As for maintenance, it’s not that complicated, but you’ll need to carefully comb the layered segments and keep it between your ears and facing forward. Otherwise, it will just fall down to the sides.”
“I can understand that. A mane is an essential part of a mare’s identity, and you want it to reflect both who inspires you but also a bit of yourself. As for maintenance, it’s not that complicated, but you’ll need to carefully comb the layered segments and keep it between your ears and facing forward. Otherwise, it will just fall down to the sides.”
Fantasy mumbled, "Mm-mm!" in agreement as the mare talked about a mare's mane being important for her identity.
"Mmm, could you show me later, just a little bit how I would go about doing that?" Fantasy asks.
"Mmm, could you show me later, just a little bit how I would go about doing that?" Fantasy asks.
>>133452
“Of course. I can do it right now.” She positions a comb in her hoof, partly in the frog and partly on a steel horseshoe. She places it against Fantasy’s mane. “Just pull those up like so” she pulls a set of hair, and then another set. “Nestle it like so.” She places it between her ears. “Do the same for the other side... And there you go” she pulls away, showing the somewhat Songbird-like hair
“Of course. I can do it right now.” She positions a comb in her hoof, partly in the frog and partly on a steel horseshoe. She places it against Fantasy’s mane. “Just pull those up like so” she pulls a set of hair, and then another set. “Nestle it like so.” She places it between her ears. “Do the same for the other side... And there you go” she pulls away, showing the somewhat Songbird-like hair
>>133455
Fantasy's eyes widens a bit as she follows the mare's hooves working in her hair in the mirror.
She smiles when it is done and claps her hooves together.
"Oh, how nice well. I will practice that when I get home. It looked pretty easy. I never got it liike that no matter how I." tried."
Fantasy's eyes widens a bit as she follows the mare's hooves working in her hair in the mirror.
She smiles when it is done and claps her hooves together.
"Oh, how nice well. I will practice that when I get home. It looked pretty easy. I never got it liike that no matter how I." tried."
>>133459
Whether we skip to her being finished or not is basically a matter of whether Fantasy engages in more conversation before then.
Whether we skip to her being finished or not is basically a matter of whether Fantasy engages in more conversation before then.
>>133460
Well, good. Then we haven't skipped forward yet, right?
>>133458
"Oh, thank you. It looks great. Well you were right, Cloudburst. this was a nice shop," Fantasy says as she turns her head towards Blue Skies. "You know?" Fantasy leans her head backwards a bit as she speaks to the earth-pony mare. "Since Cloudy had been nagging me for a while now to get a mane-cut, I brought her with me out to look for one. It was actually her that picked this shop out. Though... She said she never been here before... Hmm... What does that flag mean?" Fantasy waves a hoof towards the flag in the window.
Well, good. Then we haven't skipped forward yet, right?
>>133458
"Oh, thank you. It looks great. Well you were right, Cloudburst. this was a nice shop," Fantasy says as she turns her head towards Blue Skies. "You know?" Fantasy leans her head backwards a bit as she speaks to the earth-pony mare. "Since Cloudy had been nagging me for a while now to get a mane-cut, I brought her with me out to look for one. It was actually her that picked this shop out. Though... She said she never been here before... Hmm... What does that flag mean?" Fantasy waves a hoof towards the flag in the window.
>>133461
There is no skipping forward unless desired
“It’s nice to see you two ponies here. One of the best parts of operating a shop is meeting new creatures and talking to them. Hearing their stories...
Oh that? That’s the red and black. They call it Anarcho-Syndicalism, but that’s a more theoretical way of looking at it. Really, it’s about equality, rejection of hierarchy, the unity of all creatures, and freedom of the self while being part of a larger community.”
>>133462
It’s a square piece of cloth that was most likely intended to be a large bandana, but it could be used as a flag
There is no skipping forward unless desired
“It’s nice to see you two ponies here. One of the best parts of operating a shop is meeting new creatures and talking to them. Hearing their stories...
Oh that? That’s the red and black. They call it Anarcho-Syndicalism, but that’s a more theoretical way of looking at it. Really, it’s about equality, rejection of hierarchy, the unity of all creatures, and freedom of the self while being part of a larger community.”
>>133462
It’s a square piece of cloth that was most likely intended to be a large bandana, but it could be used as a flag
"Oh, so its like political stuff then," Fantasy says a bit downtrodden. She looks down into her lap and shifts a bit in her seat. "I'm not too big on poltitical stuff. Ponies just argue."
>>133464
“Well... that makes sense. Mostly I just have it up because the Fascists banned the workers right to organize and bargain for their wages. And that’s not right. It’s to show solidarity with the workers who live around here and who are my customers.”
“Well... that makes sense. Mostly I just have it up because the Fascists banned the workers right to organize and bargain for their wages. And that’s not right. It’s to show solidarity with the workers who live around here and who are my customers.”
"As to cheer them up? Well, that's very nice of you," Fantasy says.
>>133466
“Well, you know, to show that I support them and stand with them, and with the non-pony creatures of the city against the Fasvist occupiers.”
“Well, you know, to show that I support them and stand with them, and with the non-pony creatures of the city against the Fasvist occupiers.”
>>133468
Fantasy begins to nods so that if the barber cuts at that moment she misses.
"That's brave," Fantasy says.
Fantasy begins to nods so that if the barber cuts at that moment she misses.
"That's brave," Fantasy says.
>>133469
She smiles, and doesn’t even seem to notice her scissors clipping air And thankfully not Fantasy’s ear
“Bravery is needed in these hard times.”
She smiles, and doesn’t even seem to notice her scissors clipping air And thankfully not Fantasy’s ear
“Bravery is needed in these hard times.”
>>133470
Fantasy is silent for a bit and chews her own lips.
"Do you have like something that I could read about this on? Uh, like, you know, I have seen political ponies give out papers with their thoughts on before. Do you have something like that?"
Fantasy is silent for a bit and chews her own lips.
"Do you have like something that I could read about this on? Uh, like, you know, I have seen political ponies give out papers with their thoughts on before. Do you have something like that?"
>>133471
“Well....” she moves back, pulling away from Fantasy's mane
“Have you wondered what’s been going on in Manehattan since the new governor took over?”
“Well....” she moves back, pulling away from Fantasy's mane
“Have you wondered what’s been going on in Manehattan since the new governor took over?”
>>133473
"Well, no. I kinda moved here recently so I don't even know that a new governor has taken over," Fantasy says.
"Well, no. I kinda moved here recently so I don't even know that a new governor has taken over," Fantasy says.
>>133478
"i mean I know I should probably read the newspaper but you might have a better sugguestion where to start."
"i mean I know I should probably read the newspaper but you might have a better sugguestion where to start."
>>133478
>>133479
She shakes her head
“The newspapers the big publish companies print are censored by the fascist government. They don’t tell you everything that’s going on about uprisings, riots, and The War. And then there’s what’s been going on with the unions. That’s not banned, exactly, but the newspapers don’t cover it.”
>>133479
She shakes her head
“The newspapers the big publish companies print are censored by the fascist government. They don’t tell you everything that’s going on about uprisings, riots, and The War. And then there’s what’s been going on with the unions. That’s not banned, exactly, but the newspapers don’t cover it.”
>>133480
Fantasy gasps and her eyes go wide. She tiltes her head back and peers up at the mare.
"So they are not telling the truth?"
Fantasy gasps and her eyes go wide. She tiltes her head back and peers up at the mare.
"So they are not telling the truth?"
>>133481
“No”
She shakes her head
“Not all of it. It’s a very different world away from the smaller towns. One with great struggles. But it’ll effect the small towns too, where it doesn’t already.”
“No”
She shakes her head
“Not all of it. It’s a very different world away from the smaller towns. One with great struggles. But it’ll effect the small towns too, where it doesn’t already.”
>>133483
"Well, yes. The Fascists want to centralize power. The Communists too, but that's a different story. They are helping the landowners slowly to aggregate land for themselves, and leave the rest in the countryside too. And as things industrialize it gets worse. All of the smaller crafts businesses and shops get pushed out by the bigger ones, until eventually it will just be those who own things and those who don't. It's happening slowly, but its been going on for a long time. And the Fascists want to divide the creatures by nations, and place one nation against the other. In this way they drain even more resources that we make for them."
"Well, yes. The Fascists want to centralize power. The Communists too, but that's a different story. They are helping the landowners slowly to aggregate land for themselves, and leave the rest in the countryside too. And as things industrialize it gets worse. All of the smaller crafts businesses and shops get pushed out by the bigger ones, until eventually it will just be those who own things and those who don't. It's happening slowly, but its been going on for a long time. And the Fascists want to divide the creatures by nations, and place one nation against the other. In this way they drain even more resources that we make for them."
>>133484
Fantasy seems to mull over this. She shakes her head.
"To be honest I didn't get all of that. It was a bit complicated but I don't like the thought of having dad's blacksmith be closed down for a bigger factory."
Fantasy won't make anymore moves towards having this mare give her some of those pamphlets or lead the converstaion into more polticial topics. The mare will be the one to take that initative now or nothing will happen.
While I don't think you need to hury up, I'm kinda done with this scene. Is was a fun scene but since this "going in for the kill" >>133471 missed, I have lost my enthusiam.
Do what you want, I'll still play but as fast as the topic changes to a none-political topic I want the scene to play on autopilot with Fantasy speaking about mundane things in cherry or pleasent tone of voice with this mare before finishing the cut and leaving.
Also, where is Mr. Snuggles in this scene? Is he outside at the entrence or what has happened to him? We never specify this. Is Fantasy's cat dead or alive right now? Well, the only way is to check. Heh heh, I'm so funny.
Fantasy seems to mull over this. She shakes her head.
"To be honest I didn't get all of that. It was a bit complicated but I don't like the thought of having dad's blacksmith be closed down for a bigger factory."
Fantasy won't make anymore moves towards having this mare give her some of those pamphlets or lead the converstaion into more polticial topics. The mare will be the one to take that initative now or nothing will happen.
While I don't think you need to hury up, I'm kinda done with this scene. Is was a fun scene but since this "going in for the kill" >>133471 missed, I have lost my enthusiam.
Do what you want, I'll still play but as fast as the topic changes to a none-political topic I want the scene to play on autopilot with Fantasy speaking about mundane things in cherry or pleasent tone of voice with this mare before finishing the cut and leaving.
Also, where is Mr. Snuggles in this scene? Is he outside at the entrence or what has happened to him? We never specify this. Is Fantasy's cat dead or alive right now? Well, the only way is to check. Heh heh, I'm so funny.
>>133485
Mr. Snuggles is back withShrodinger in Blue Skies' lap. Not that the two particularly get along, but she keeps a hold of him.
It doesn't necessarily miss just because she wants to talk more after the question...
"Yes... It's very hard to live through... I have a few pamphlets somewhere that summarize most of this. They are very informative. But they don't really tell you much you don't see living in the city. It's like they clarify your thoughts, or show you the wider world."
Mr. Snuggles is back with
It doesn't necessarily miss just because she wants to talk more after the question...
"Yes... It's very hard to live through... I have a few pamphlets somewhere that summarize most of this. They are very informative. But they don't really tell you much you don't see living in the city. It's like they clarify your thoughts, or show you the wider world."
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>>133490
If you really want to carry this on I can, otherwise I'll be there for the next session, hopefully while being more timely.
If you really want to carry this on I can, otherwise I'll be there for the next session, hopefully while being more timely.
>>133491
Um... Unless you know what you want to do with Amber I do not know what to do. I know there was hope to meet up with Fantasy but that looks a little difficult at the moment
Um... Unless you know what you want to do with Amber I do not know what to do. I know there was hope to meet up with Fantasy but that looks a little difficult at the moment
>>133492
Honestly I am just as uncertain as you are which is why I'm leaving it in the hands of the DM. All the sight-searching's been done and it was great, but now it's on to the next part. Whatever you come up with I'll play along.
Honestly I am just as uncertain as you are which is why I'm leaving it in the hands of the DM. All the sight-searching's been done and it was great, but now it's on to the next part. Whatever you come up with I'll play along.
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>>133497
Well ill leave it up to you. But i think dark star would have just finished bringing the colts from the orphanage on a trip to see the docks and get ice cream.
Well ill leave it up to you. But i think dark star would have just finished bringing the colts from the orphanage on a trip to see the docks and get ice cream.
>>133498
Waking up the next morning, Dark Star finds he's woken up late, with Blue Skies long since gone. But the blankets are thick, making him cozy in the otherwise cold room, and sleeping in is well welcome. Dark Star easily catches a taxi to the orphanage, where after careful negotiation, Sister Marery lets the two colts out early to go to the docks with Dark Star (their lessons were halfway done by this point anyways). Dark Star's experience on the pier into Horseshoe Bay, and then later by the banks of the Delamare River, is quite enjoyable to say the least, helping him bond with the foals. But they have to be sent back eventually. This is where we meet Dark Star (or even the next day).
Waking up the next morning, Dark Star finds he's woken up late, with Blue Skies long since gone. But the blankets are thick, making him cozy in the otherwise cold room, and sleeping in is well welcome. Dark Star easily catches a taxi to the orphanage, where after careful negotiation, Sister Marery lets the two colts out early to go to the docks with Dark Star (their lessons were halfway done by this point anyways). Dark Star's experience on the pier into Horseshoe Bay, and then later by the banks of the Delamare River, is quite enjoyable to say the least, helping him bond with the foals. But they have to be sent back eventually. This is where we meet Dark Star (or even the next day).
>>133501
White Orchid waves back, then goes in, and Mint Marine smiles
What does Dark Star want to do next?
White Orchid waves back, then goes in, and Mint Marine smiles
What does Dark Star want to do next?