View Full Version : [FWM] Backstage: CUT!
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-12, 09:22 AM
My Little Pony: Friendship Was Magic
In Equestria, the monsters are kept in safe places, and can be beaten off with hugs and clothing and angry stares.
In Equestria, a benevolent goddess raises the sun and the moon, and keeps the world in harmony.
In Equestria, the concept of danger is barely understood.
This is not that Equestria.
The town of Bridle Shores lies near a lake, and is one of the cities that survived the revolution. The heroic Moon Goddess, and her student, overthrew the Burning Hate of the Iron Hoof, saving Equestria from the searing, unending summer that raged for years. Even now, she tries to hold against the monsters, the literal armies of feral species that attack.
This is not the Equestria you know. Friendship has power, love may yet triumph. But evil is not just a word. Go out into the woods today, and be sure to take an axe, or make sure you have that fireball spell on a hair-trigger. If you want to keep your life... you'd better work for it.
...this is also not the Equestria you're dealing with, but it's a tad closer.
In this thread, reality and continuity are tenuous concepts at best. Mortal enemies become fierce rivals, existing tensions are eased off, to be replaced with far less serious ones, and the life-or-death struggle of life takes a backseat to idle shenanigans. This is Equestria when the cameras stop rolling and the lights go off.
This is Equestria's Backstage.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-12, 09:38 AM
[Bridle Shores, Wintertime]
Hearth's Warming Day is here!
A fresh blanket of snow covers the ground, as ponies everywhere bundle up for the cold and set out to meet friends and families, basking in the crisp scent of holly and the warm, mouth-watering aroma of baking cookies. Indeed, the dull, drab town has been transformed, draped with wreaths, candy canes, magical lights, and most importantly of all, a massive Hearth's Warming Tree set up in the town's square. Ponies from all over town mix and mingle in its shade, swapping gifts, stories, and quiet moments stolen under the mistletoe. Even the open chill of winter could not hope to freeze the spirits of these merry ponies.
Go! Go, and enjoy the season while it lasts!
***************************************
Sandy entered the square, all bundled up in a jacket, scarf, and his favorite knit, floppy-eared hat, complete with little fuzzy pom-pom. In the hustle and bustle of the town, he'd completely lost track of the rest of his crewmates. The little unicorn scanned the crowd, looking out for his friends.
"Heyyyyyy, Mr Shores. You seem lost," a friendly voice said as a forehoof wrapped itself around the smallish unicorn. :smalltongue: The good lieutenant taken to wearing a scarf of his own, a loose fitting sweater and earmuffs.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-12, 01:23 PM
"Silverpine!" Sandy yelped in surprise as he found himself suddenly pulled into a friendly side-hug. "Either this whole thing was a cover for another stealth exercise, or m'height's gotten th' better of me again." He glanced over; his own shoulder barely rose above Silverpine's knee. Returning the hug would present...severe logistical difficulties. "...yep, definitely a stealth exercise. Guess I lose!" He shrugged and chuckled good-naturedly.
Kelvin360
2013-12-12, 05:21 PM
It wasn't easy coming up with so much snow on such short notice, but fortunately, the weather team happened to have an expert on hoof. The Pegasus in question, the colors of her mane and coat blending in shockingly well with the frost around her, has spent most of the morning using her camouflage to start impromptu snowball fights in the streets, and then slink away as they come into full swing. Where exactly Snowstorm is now is hard to say, though it's a good bet that her next appearance will have the same result.
On the outskirts of the event, Dawnstrider has been trying his darndest to stay as far removed from the festivities as he can, though it's proving more difficult than he envisioned. Due to the nature of the day, he's elected to do away with his black armor, instead choosing to don a white scarf with golden trim and a black-and-green hat, two pieces of clothing that were certainly made (or at least chosen) by different individuals. However, the scarf appears hoof-knit.
After a long weekend of treating outbreaks of the sniffles in preparation for Hearth's Warming, so as to avoid anyone being sick and thus missing the festivities, the good Dr. Sunshine has finally let his mane down. Wearing a scarf much like Dawnstrider's (though this one is quite a bit older), he's putting some of his concentration into managing his radiance, so that he doesn't go around melting any snow. Beside him, Silver Streak* is clearly enjoying the festivities, taking every available opportunity to either strike up conversations with the locals or gleefully take part in 'mysterious snowball fights'.
"I'm still expecting the other to crop up somewhere." Silver notes during a lull in the excitement. "You're sure Daniel and Moonshine couldn't come along?"
"I didn't exactly press the issue." Taylor admits. "It's their first Hearth's Warming together as newlyweds. I figured it best to let them have that to themselves. As for Rigs and Flippy, well...you know how much their mad science tradition means to them."
"Mmhm. Perhaps Golden Shore can join them this year when they deliver presents to all the good colts and fillies."
"Do you know, it wouldn't surprise me at all to learn that those two are Snowy Hooves."
* - Who??
From the desk of Starbeam - remarkable profiles, cont.
Name: Silver Streak
Race: Pegasus
Title(s): Lady Sunrise, Captain Streak (former)
Physical Appearance: Has retained an athletic build from her early years. Bright green eyes. Possesses a silvery-white coat and mane.
Cutie Mark: A length of light that has been known to glow and twirl at times.
Brief History: After leaving the Wonderbolts due to political machinations beyond her control, Silver Streak joined the then-stronger Equestrian military as a low-level nurse, to avoid unnecessary recognition. There, she met Taylor, who was operating during one of his exploratory stints in combat medicine. The two were married within months, sliding into a semi-permanent retirement ended only upon her untimely death, which acted as an impetus for the formation of the Lightbringers and Taylor's own 'crusade period'.
Exceptional Qualities: Retains exceptional militaristic and athletic training from her time in the Wonderbolts, as well as above-average medical expertise courtesy of her time with Taylor. She specializes in 'hard-packing' clouds almost instantaneously, allowing her to use them as springboards rapidly during flight.
Affiliations: Posthumously associated with the Lightbringers, and while in this timeline she is an official member, she rarely becomes involved with their escapades.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-12, 05:50 PM
[Heavy Metal Ironworks]
The forge was ablaze with a merry light that winter day, filled with a wonderful warmth, and there was a pleasant scent of cinnamon and other spices in the air. The sound, however, was more a matter of personal taste.
Blades was singing loudly and cheerfully (driving Flare to stuff clay into her ears) as she worked, although instead of weapons and armour, she was making cookies. By now, there were several trays of cookies lying around, baked to perfection, decorated lovingly with white, green and red sugar, and bearing festive shapes such as reindeer, evergreen trees, merry ponies, bells, sleighs, festive hats, knives, axes, and pole-arms.
After a while, she set down her last tray and took a break to rest. "Isn't it lovely? Just like my old home." She grinned at whichever of her assistants were there that day. "We're all nice 'n warm, 'n we get to eat homemade cookies 'n watch the snow fallin' outside with some friends!"
Flare looked disdainful. "Why exactly are we being so celebratory all of a sudden?"
"'Cause of all nations bein' able to live together in harmony! 'N lots of baking keeps the place warm in the winter months."
"It just seems to me that if we wanted such festivities, we would do them when we wanted them rather than according to some mandatory schedule."
Blades laughed. "Ya really have a lot to learn 'bout life up here, Flare." She then turned back to her other assistant(s). "So what do ya think?"
[Meanwhile]
Blueshield, Commander of the Thousand and One Mareabian Knights, looked out of the window of the inn. All seemed peaceful and cheery outside. Finally, a time of celebrating peace. A period for relaxation, diversion from commonplace troubles, to enjoy one's life...
...and knowing the habits of fortune, a period that shall be terminated expeditiously.
She donned a respectable wool jacket, scarf and hat, put on sturdy boots, took her weapons, and headed out for an aerial patrol around the town. The other ponies may have thought they were safe, but in this weather, she was not letting her guard down.
[Back In Town]
Night Jewel trudged through the streets, looking rather cold and miserable. Her "fox" outfit was not quite adequate for keeping her warm, and she hadn't been able to buy or steal anything better.
Too much snow... Everypony's all cheerful, and here I am trying to avoid freezing. Why does it have to be so cold all the time here?
Hey, you're the one who left your nice warm desert to come to this place.
She sighed and pressed onward to the town square, No matter how cold she was, she wasn't going to be left out of the fun.
Kelvin360
2013-12-12, 06:26 PM
Heavy Metal
Arvadraa (and Horne, for that matter) has spent most of the day being absolutely ecstatic about the day's turn of events. Having not been able to celebrate Hearth's Warming since she was a filly, she's taken all celebratory facets of the event almost to an extreme, whether it be placing miniature hats on any animal she can find, helping to make cookies (which she takes to like a fish to water after all those muffins) or simply bursting out into song at random intervals. As it happens, being able to perform a duet with yourself is quite handy there.
Stellar, by contrast, has been relatively subdued so far. She's helped out where she's needed, and that she hasn't barricaded herself away to work on other projects speaks as to her 'willingness' to be 'social', but it feels rather like she's going to be Grinching this year.
Starbeam chose to stop by a time ago in order to visit, and apparently couldn't bring herself to depart so soon. Whether it's due to the pleasantly visceral nature of the experience or out of courtesy to Blades, neither unicorn has used any sort of magic during their campaign to assist the proprietor in making all the cookies.
"I forgot how wonderful this season was!" Arvadraa gushes. "There's snow and cookies and friends and family and...ahhh." She sighs happily. "It makes me wish the celebrations lasted longer. But! We'll make use of what time we have!"
"I was with you up until the 'make use of short periods of time' cliché." Stellar mumbles.
"As far as I'm aware, it's primarily logistical." Starbeam explains to Flare. "Placing holidays on specific dates allows individual schedules to come together more cleanly. It lets everypony know that they need to have everything in order by this specific day, so that large groups can spend more time free of worry." She turns to look at Blades. "Thank you for having me over, by the way. I find Hearth's Warming's are always better with family."
"Which...where are Mom and Dad, anyway? Don't they still live in Canterlot?"
"She's almost always busy this time of year. I did send invitations to Mythspire and Darkfang, but it's a long way by hoof."
---
Town Square
High above the snowy terraces, a lone pegasus, taking cover behind a white tuft of cloud, takes a moment to observe the festivities below. Her eyes light up upon seeing a target, and she falls through the bottom of the cloud, stopping at a hover just a few hooflengths from another pony.
The main effect of this is that Blueshield may find herself face-to-upside-down-face with Snowstorm, who greets her with a lopsided grin.
"Heya. Knight-Commander Blueshield, right?" She looks the other pegasus down and up. "That's some pretty heavy gear for a snowball fight, I'd say."
Below them, Dawnstrider begins moving ahead, set to cross paths with Night Jewel, assuming she doesn't decide to avoid him. That said, aside from his eyes, he looks quite a deal different than he normally does.
HalfTangible
2013-12-12, 06:33 PM
[Nightpage]
Starting a fire in a library without the room to see out the windows wasn't exactly a bright move. Hence why Lone Star was a leeeeettle cold every winter. And he HATED the cold. He'd asked for runes to keep the place warm, but apparently that wouldn't be much better than a fire.
The door banged open and he grinned broadly. Oh how he hated the cold, but how he loved the season.
One of these days, he thought, I need to get a jacket. Or a scarf. Or anything that could keep me warm, really.
... Lone Star was beginning to wonder if he was just stupid instead of crazy.
Don't be silly. You've got voices in your head, of course you're crazy.
Yeah, you're probably right.
Sleigh bells ring~ Are you listenin'~ He sang, walking out into the cold. Without a scarf. Or jacket.
...He's an idiot.
---
[Hay Bale]
Hay Bale wore a big pink fluffy scarf and her business suit, whistling in the cold winter air.
Trottin' in a winter wonderland~
"Silverpine!" Sandy yelped in surprise as he found himself suddenly pulled into a friendly side-hug. "Either this whole thing was a cover for another stealth exercise, or m'height's gotten th' better of me again." He glanced over; his own shoulder barely rose above Silverpine's knee. Returning the hug would present...severe logistical difficulties. "...yep, definitely a stealth exercise. Guess I lose!" He shrugged and chuckled good-naturedly.
Silverpine chuckled. "Indeed! Now let's go find where the other crewmembers might be. They shouldn't be far off! Come on now, Sandy." He let the unicorn go and trotted forward, his eyes searching around.
[Nightpage]
Starting a fire in a library without the room to see out the windows wasn't exactly a bright move. Hence why Lone Star was a leeeeettle cold every winter. And he HATED the cold. He'd asked for runes to keep the place warm, but apparently that wouldn't be much better than a fire.
The door banged open and he grinned broadly. Oh how he hated the cold, but how he loved the season.
One of these days, he thought, I need to get a jacket. Or a scarf. Or anything that could keep me warm, really.
... Lone Star was beginning to wonder if he was just stupid instead of crazy.
Don't be silly. You've got voices in your head, of course you're crazy.
Yeah, you're probably right.
Sleigh bells ring~ Are you listenin'~ He sang, walking out into the cold. Without a scarf. Or jacket.
...He's an idiot.
And his fillyfriend seems to agree. "Star, you idiot," Esmeralda said with an eyeroll. Unlike a certain one-winged pegasus, Esmeralda at least had the decency to bundle herself in proper winterwear.
"We're going to get you some decent clothes even if I have to drag you screaming and kicking to shopping." Actually, she probably was doing that now by dragging Lone Star off by the ear.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-12, 09:07 PM
Silverpine chuckled. "Indeed! Now let's go find where the other crewmembers might be. They shouldn't be far off! Come on now, Sandy." He let the unicorn go and trotted forward, his eyes searching around.
Sandy trotted dutifully by his side, his sandy head occasionally leaping above the crowds for a quick peek as they walked. Would they spot a splash of magenta and rainbow? Or would they spy a bit of xanadu and olive peeking out from under a trusty homburg?
"Thank goodness we talked th' Cap'n out of havin' our own tree aboard th' ship." Sandy remarked, looking up at the massive pine tree in the center of the square. "I'd give it...five minutes before somethin' caught it on fire. Ten if we were careful."
HalfTangible
2013-12-12, 09:08 PM
Silverpine chuckled. "Indeed! Now let's go find where the other crewmembers might be. They shouldn't be far off! Come on now, Sandy." He let the unicorn go and trotted forward, his eyes searching around.
And his fillyfriend seems to agree. "Star, you idiot," Esmeralda said with an eyeroll. Unlike a certain one-winged pegasus, Esmeralda at least had the decency to bundle herself in proper winterwear.
"We're going to get you some decent clothes even if I have to drag you screaming and kicking to shopping." Actually, she probably was doing that now by dragging Lone Star off by the ear.
OW OW OW!!!! Oh come oOWn, it's not THAT OW cold! I'd only OW wear it in OW winter anyOWway! Writers don't OW make a OW lot! Cold's bracOWing! It's just OW the metal that OW hurts! OW! Okay, okay, I'm coming, stop OW!! OW OW OW!!!... I'd settle for tugging the metal wing instead of my OW!!
(@Sandy, letting Orzel and Benson have a chance to respond first if they wanted to.)
OW OW OW!!!! Oh come oOWn, it's not THAT OW cold! I'd only OW wear it in OW winter anyOWway! Writers don't OW make a OW lot! Cold's bracOWing! It's just OW the metal that OW hurts! OW! Okay, okay, I'm coming, stop OW!! OW OW OW!!!... I'd settle for tugging the metal wing instead of my OW!!
Screaming and kicking it was. :smalltongue: Though Esmeralda relented somewhat after his last pleas, lifting the entire pony bodily with her magic and floating him along behind her as she made her way to one of Bridle Shore's boutiques!
The ice mage pushed her way through the front door, her ears perking at the soft sounds of bells tinkling in the corner, and deposited Lone Star in a bedraggled heap. "Hello?"
"Sorry, miss! But we're closed!"
"Sorry my arse. I'm not having my coltfriend freeze out there in this weather. Now show me your winterwear."
"But..."
"No buts." Esmeralda flashed him an annoyed look.
One look at the deadly serious, and slightly crazed look of the both of them, convinced the shopkeep that it was probably in the best interest to cooperate. :smalltongue: "R-Right this way, mister," he said to Lone Star, cringing slightly.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-13, 02:44 AM
Arvadraa (and Horne, for that matter) has spent most of the day being absolutely ecstatic about the day's turn of events. Having not been able to celebrate Hearth's Warming since she was a filly, she's taken all celebratory facets of the event almost to an extreme, whether it be placing miniature hats on any animal she can find, helping to make cookies (which she takes to like a fish to water after all those muffins) or simply bursting out into song at random intervals. As it happens, being able to perform a duet with yourself is quite handy there.
Stellar, by contrast, has been relatively subdued so far. She's helped out where she's needed, and that she hasn't barricaded herself away to work on other projects speaks as to her 'willingness' to be 'social', but it feels rather like she's going to be Grinching this year.
Starbeam chose to stop by a time ago in order to visit, and apparently couldn't bring herself to depart so soon. Whether it's due to the pleasantly visceral nature of the experience or out of courtesy to Blades, neither unicorn has used any sort of magic during their campaign to assist the proprietor in making all the cookies.
"I forgot how wonderful this season was!" Arvadraa gushes. "There's snow and cookies and friends and family and...ahhh." She sighs happily. "It makes me wish the celebrations lasted longer. But! We'll make use of what time we have!"
"I was with you up until the 'make use of short periods of time' cliché." Stellar mumbles.
"As far as I'm aware, it's primarily logistical." Starbeam explains to Flare. "Placing holidays on specific dates allows individual schedules to come together more cleanly. It lets everypony know that they need to have everything in order by this specific day, so that large groups can spend more time free of worry." She turns to look at Blades. "Thank you for having me over, by the way. I find Hearth's Warming's are always better with family."
"Which...where are Mom and Dad, anyway? Don't they still live in Canterlot?"
"She's almost always busy this time of year. I did send invitations to Mythspire and Darkfang, but it's a long way by hoof."
"Oh, it's a pleasure, Miss Starbeam!" Blades took a reindeer cookie and bit the head off. "The more, the merrier! It's a bit diffrent without Mother 'n Father here, but it's still nice enough, don't ya think?"
"I find these customs... unusual, to say the least."
"'N that's what makes 'em special! If ya baked holiday cookies, sang songs, 'n made merry every day, it'd mean a lot less than if ya did it a few times a year with friends! Of course, hangin' out with friends 'n family can be done any time."
"...Then I had best adapt. But I will not be able to hang out with any relatives of mine until I find out where their graves are, at the least."
High above the snowy terraces, a lone pegasus, taking cover behind a white tuft of cloud, takes a moment to observe the festivities below. Her eyes light up upon seeing a target, and she falls through the bottom of the cloud, stopping at a hover just a few hooflengths from another pony.
The main effect of this is that Blueshield may find herself face-to-upside-down-face with Snowstorm, who greets her with a lopsided grin.
"Heya. Knight-Commander Blueshield, right?" She looks the other pegasus down and up. "That's some pretty heavy gear for a snowball fight, I'd say."
Blueshield gave a glare in response. "Snowballs? I am maintaining vigilance against significantly more prodigious threats, thank you very much. In any instant, some variety of foe could decide to take advantage of our distraction to assail us unanticipated with catastrophic consequences. As you would expect, I would prefer it if any such occurrences were prevented pre-emptively."
Below them, Dawnstrider begins moving ahead, set to cross paths with Night Jewel, assuming she doesn't decide to avoid him. That said, aside from his eyes, he looks quite a deal different than he normally does.
Naturally, Night Jewel wasn't interested in avoiding him. She smiled at him despite the cold.
"Hi! Quite spectacular weather we're having! Not like what I'm used to." She paused to look around and shiver a bit. "So what have you been up to?"
Kelvin360
2013-12-13, 04:10 AM
"Oh, it's a pleasure, Miss Starbeam!" Blades took a reindeer cookie and bit the head off. "The more, the merrier! It's a bit diffrent without Mother 'n Father here, but it's still nice enough, don't ya think?"
"I find these customs... unusual, to say the least."
"'N that's what makes 'em special! If ya baked holiday cookies, sang songs, 'n made merry every day, it'd mean a lot less than if ya did it a few times a year with friends! Of course, hangin' out with friends 'n family can be done any time."
"...Then I had best adapt. But I will not be able to hang out with any relatives of mine until I find out where their graves are, at the least."
"Well, I mean, I'm not related to anypony here either, but..." A small blush creeps up Arvadraa's cheeks. "I've grown to think of most of you as family. That's what really defines it, isn't it? Especially on days like this. Who you're attached to, and who you share experiences with."
"Well geez, Brains, it's Hearth's Warming; don't go and make us all cry."
"Would that there were some eggnog to toast that with."
"Okay, yeah, dripping with sap, but nice sentiment. I guess."
Blueshield gave a glare in response. "Snowballs? I am maintaining vigilance against significantly more prodigious threats, thank you very much. In any instant, some variety of foe could decide to take advantage of our distraction to assail us unanticipated with catastrophic consequences. As you would expect, I would prefer it if any such occurrences were prevented pre-emptively."
Snowstorm actually chuckles and drops to an upright position. "Before I start, please don't take this like I'm not giving your concerns credit. I know if I was planning on an attack, I'd pretty heavily consider today. But, um, if anypony nearby was planning anything...well...discordant, the actual attack would be the least of our worries. The Wendigos would probably give us a pretty hefty forewarning, assuming getting frozen into blocks of ice doesn't stop any plots c-...uh, in their place."
She pauses to look Blueshield over, then frowns. "Please don't take any offense for my going psychoanalytical on you, but...you don't have anypony in town to spend the day with, do you?"
Naturally, Night Jewel wasn't interested in avoiding him. She smiled at him despite the cold.
"Hi! Quite spectacular weather we're having! Not like what I'm used to." She paused to look around and shiver a bit. "So what have you been up to?"
"I would imagine the shock to be disorienting, at best." He frowns in concern. "I have accomplished little of note today, and I find that fact quite refreshing. Forgive me, but you look apt to turn into a particularly adroit popsicle at any moment. Should we not speak in warmer climes?"
Benson
2013-12-13, 07:36 AM
Silverpine chuckled. "Indeed! Now let's go find where the other crewmembers might be. They shouldn't be far off! Come on now, Sandy." He let the unicorn go and trotted forward, his eyes searching around.
At least one crewmember wouldn't be too far off, as a matter of fact, Gearstride would come into view, dressed in red winter coat, dragging about a small green sack. On her head she seemed to be wearing a head band with a wire attached to it where from it...mistletoe dangled from it.
*laugh track then fade out*
She walked about her with a happy gait, ponytails bouncing, a big smile on her face as she hummed a little certain Hearthwarming tune. It would take long for her to spy her two favorite boys and happily waved at them from across the street just as a carriage passed in front of her. When it had passed she was gone.
A few seconds later she popped up behind Silverpine and Sandy and draped her forehooves over them pulling them in towards her. "Heya cutie pies, holiday greetings from Santy Gear." She grinned, glancing up, following her line of sight would show the both of them under her mistletoe. She then lightly smooched Sandy on his cheek and then planted a loud smooch on her dear Silverpine's pony lips.
"Mhuh!"
Oooooooooooooo/laugh track
HalfTangible
2013-12-13, 11:51 AM
Lone Star was taken back. Very sorry about this, but ya know how it is. Gotta listen when you're lifted bodily and carried into a clothing store. He whispered. I'll get out of your mane quick as I can. Got anything in silver?
At least one crewmember wouldn't be too far off, as a matter of fact, Gearstride would come into view, dressed in red winter coat, dragging about a small green sack. On her head she seemed to be wearing a head band with a wire attached to it where from it...mistletoe dangled from it.
*laugh track then fade out*
She walked about her with a happy gait, ponytails bouncing, a big smile on her face as she hummed a little certain Hearthwarming tune. It would take long for her to spy her two favorite boys and happily waved at them from across the street just as a carriage passed in front of her. When it had passed she was gone.
A few seconds later she popped up behind Silverpine and Sandy and draped her forehooves over them pulling them in towards her. "Heya cutie pies, holiday greetings from Santy Gear." She grinned, glancing up, following her line of sight would show the both of them under her mistletoe. She then lightly smooched Sandy on his cheek and then planted a loud smooch on her dear Silverpine's pony lips.
"Mhuh!"
Oooooooooooooo/laugh track
"Hey, Captain!" Silverpine waved with a wide grin as he spied the xanadu mare. He blinked as she suddenly disappeared... only to reappear again behind them!
"Gah!" he yelped as she pulled them close for a hug. Which turned into a surprised mmrhh with the smooch. He pulled away, flushing a little. "Captain, we're still in public."
Lone Star was taken back. Very sorry about this, but ya know how it is. Gotta listen when you're lifted bodily and carried into a clothing store. He whispered. I'll get out of your mane quick as I can. Got anything in silver?
"S-Silver? I don't think so, but you're free to take a look." He glanced nervously at Esmeralda, who narrowed her eyes at the two whispering with each other, then looked back to Lone Star. "Please make it quick... she ain't gonna cause trouble, is she?"
Didn't help Esmeralda was now casually shaping a razorsharp spiky ball in the air. :smalltongue: Nothing focuses the mind like the prospect of sharp implements.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-13, 02:12 PM
"Hey, Captain!" Silverpine waved with a wide grin as he spied the xanadu mare. He blinked as she suddenly disappeared... only to reappear again behind them!
"Gah!" he yelped as she pulled them close for a hug. Which turned into a surprised mmrhh with the smooch. He pulled away, flushing a little. "Captain, we're still in public."
Sandy yelped right alongside Silverpine, caught mid-leap as he tried to search for the Captain. He smiled and gave a little salute when he caught sight of their captor. "Happy Hearth's Warmin', Cap'n! Didn't know th' Cirrus were responsible for givin' out...th' gifts..." His eyes widened in realization as he followed her gaze. "Is that...Cap'n, wait-!"
Too little, too late. The little stallion blushed furiously at the smooch, pulling his cap's ear flappies down to protect his vulnerable cheeks from further ambushes. "Rainbow don't cotton t'sharin' her stallion much, Cap'n..." he cautioned.
Caught beneath the mistletoe with another mare; the scandal! :smalltongue:
HalfTangible
2013-12-13, 03:40 PM
"S-Silver? I don't think so, but you're free to take a look." He glanced nervously at Esmeralda, who narrowed her eyes at the two whispering with each other, then looked back to Lone Star. "Please make it quick... she ain't gonna cause trouble, is she?"
Didn't help Esmeralda was now casually shaping a razorsharp spiky ball in the air. :smalltongue: Nothing focuses the mind like the prospect of sharp implements.
... She's... probably just trying to intimidate you... But just in case, let's hurry. Lone Star looked to Es and cut a hoof across his neck, as if to say 'knock it off'.
... She's... probably just trying to intimidate you... But just in case, let's hurry. Lone Star looked to Es and cut a hoof across his neck, as if to say 'knock it off'.
Esmeralda fluttered her eyes innocently, giving Lone Star a most hurt look at his implied accusation. :smalltongue:
Which gave the shopkeeper plenty of incentive to hustle Lone Star deeper into the shop and dress him up. Cue dressing montage in which Lone Star was forced to wear several (possibly humiliating winterwear).
(Choose your outfit :smalltongue: )
HalfTangible
2013-12-14, 12:28 AM
Too stuffy...I don't think this is for pegasi... nice kimono, but this is summerwear... oooh, this one's got a hood!...and spiders. Let's just put that back... Smells like cheese...little tight...WHY AM I IN A MAID'S OUTFIT?!...Okay, let's just go with this.
Lone Star had picked out a silver jacket with a hood, thick enough for the weather by a small margin. Can we go now? I think he's about to have a heart attack... Besides... He ran a hoof along Es' barrel. I think I'd rather warm up with you than in a clothing store~
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-14, 01:07 AM
"Well, I mean, I'm not related to anypony here either, but..." A small blush creeps up Arvadraa's cheeks. "I've grown to think of most of you as family. That's what really defines it, isn't it? Especially on days like this. Who you're attached to, and who you share experiences with."
"Well geez, Brains, it's Hearth's Warming; don't go and make us all cry."
"Would that there were some eggnog to toast that with."
"Okay, yeah, dripping with sap, but nice sentiment. I guess."
"Oh, 'Vadraa..." Blades stepped over and seized her for a tight hug.
"Charming. Are sudden epiphanies part of the celebrations?"
"Ya never know! But still, 'Vadraa's right. We're all together, 'n it doesn't matter if ya're a mother, a sister, or just somepony who hangs out a lot. What matters is that ya care for each other."
"...I suppose I can consider you close enough, as you released me from an eternity of tedium. However, I am... unsure if I can relate."
"Just relax, Flare! Ya'll get into it."
Snowstorm actually chuckles and drops to an upright position. "Before I start, please don't take this like I'm not giving your concerns credit. I know if I was planning on an attack, I'd pretty heavily consider today. But, um, if anypony nearby was planning anything...well...discordant, the actual attack would be the least of our worries. The Wendigos would probably give us a pretty hefty forewarning, assuming getting frozen into blocks of ice doesn't stop any plots c-...uh, in their place."
"From my experiences-"
She pauses to look Blueshield over, then frowns. "Please don't take any offense for my going psychoanalytical on you, but...you don't have anypony in town to spend the day with, do you?"
Blueshield was stopped by this. She took a moment to consider.
"I was... not intending to associate with other individuals. My duty has always been my first priority. Therefore, the answer to your question is negative."
"I would imagine the shock to be disorienting, at best." He frowns in concern. "I have accomplished little of note today, and I find that fact quite refreshing. Forgive me, but you look apt to turn into a particularly adroit popsicle at any moment. Should we not speak in warmer climes?"
"That sounds good to me. I wanted to check out the festivities, but that'll have to wait until I can stay warm out here." Night Jewel shivered some more. "Do you have anywhere in mind?"
Kelvin360
2013-12-14, 08:47 AM
"Oh, 'Vadraa..." Blades stepped over and seized her for a tight hug.
"Charming. Are sudden epiphanies part of the celebrations?"
"Ya never know! But still, 'Vadraa's right. We're all together, 'n it doesn't matter if ya're a mother, a sister, or just somepony who hangs out a lot. What matters is that ya care for each other."
"...I suppose I can consider you close enough, as you released me from an eternity of tedium. However, I am... unsure if I can relate."
"Just relax, Flare! Ya'll get into it."
Arvadraa returns the hug with a nuzzle atop, ignoring Stellar's mock gagging motions. "I don't expect anypony in your position to make those kinds of connections overnight, Flare. It does take time. But we'll be here for you when you need us every step of the way."
Stellar smirks. "You're not getting out of having to give out presents just by charming us out of our horseshoes, you know."
Arvadraa returns the grin. "Oh, I know. Think of the good cheer like another, immaterial present."
"From my experiences-"
Blueshield was stopped by this. She took a moment to consider.
"I was... not intending to associate with other individuals. My duty has always been my first priority. Therefore, the answer to your question is negative."
"Mmhmm. I'm still not judging you, but I'm going to take this moment to point out that social exploration is one of the main prerogatives and, in fact, benefits of this particular celebration and those like it. What you're doing is important, but you're doing it so that other ponies can securely do the things you aren't, or so I assume. Another question - did you stay on the force around this time of year back home, too? Bearing in mind that there's still no judgment to be found from me."
"That sounds good to me. I wanted to check out the festivities, but that'll have to wait until I can stay warm out here." Night Jewel shivered some more. "Do you have anywhere in mind?"
"We can remain outside and still keep warm. I believe I saw..." He looks around, and then points at a pair near the tree in the town square. "My father can provide warmth and conversation, and it appears as though he and my mother are not busy, so we can presumably take him wherever we wish to go."
"Mmhmm. I'm still not judging you, but I'm going to take this moment to point out that social exploration is one of the main prerogatives and, in fact, benefits of this particular celebration and those like it. What you're doing is important, but you're doing it so that other ponies can securely do the things you aren't, or so I assume. Another question - did you stay on the force around this time of year back home, too? Bearing in mind that there's still no judgment to be found from me."
"Well, glad we're not the only one here freezing our hooves off!" Lemongrass called out cheerily, followed closely behind by a scowling Tyrol. Both were in their winter guard outfit. Which mostly consists of a thick woollen sweater underneath their guard armour, with earmuffs to protect their ears.
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "Lemongrass, we're supposed to be on duty, not talking to mares."
Lemongrass shrugged. "Capt'n said nothing about not talking to citizens now."
"Yeah well. If Stormcloak raises a fuss about this, I'm going to say it's all your fault."
The pegasus guard cheerily ignored the comments of his compatriot. "So, ladies, what are you doing out here?"
Too stuffy...I don't think this is for pegasi... nice kimono, but this is summerwear... oooh, this one's got a hood!...and spiders. Let's just put that back... Smells like cheese...little tight...WHY AM I IN A MAID'S OUTFIT?!...Okay, let's just go with this.
Lone Star had picked out a silver jacket with a hood, thick enough for the weather by a small margin. Can we go now? I think he's about to have a heart attack... Besides... He ran a hoof along Es' barrel. I think I'd rather warm up with you than in a clothing store~
Esmeralda smiled pleasantly when Lone Star returned. "Oh, excellent choice, dear." Her smile widened at his gentle touch on her foreleg. "You know I feel the same way, Star~" she whispered seductively, before catching sight of the shopkeep peeped out behind Lone Star. He warily watched the reactions of the ice blue mare. He blinked in surprise as a bag of bits was tossed his way, which he caught easily with a hoof.
"Now that we're properly dressed, let us be off. See you around, stud~" she said with a wink at the shopkeeper, who promptly flushed as Emseralda sashayed out through the door with Lone Star in tow. Once outside, she stopped to kiss him on the cheek. "Mmm, where to then, dear?"
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-14, 07:59 PM
Arvadraa returns the hug with a nuzzle atop, ignoring Stellar's mock gagging motions. "I don't expect anypony in your position to make those kinds of connections overnight, Flare. It does take time. But we'll be here for you when you need us every step of the way."
Stellar smirks. "You're not getting out of having to give out presents just by charming us out of our horseshoes, you know."
Arvadraa returns the grin. "Oh, I know. Think of the good cheer like another, immaterial present."
"See, that's what I like 'bout ya, 'Vadraa! Ya're always so kind!"
Flare was taken aback. "An... obligatory transfer of gifts?"
"Yep! It's a tradition! Ya give each other nice things to show yar genrosity! 'N it gets other ponies to show genrosity right back at ya." Blades chuckled and continued nuzzling Arvadraa.
"...I see. However, I still am unsure. Does generosity really mean as much if it is obligatory?"
"Well... Girls, can ya help out a bit?"
"Mmhmm. I'm still not judging you, but I'm going to take this moment to point out that social exploration is one of the main prerogatives and, in fact, benefits of this particular celebration and those like it. What you're doing is important, but you're doing it so that other ponies can securely do the things you aren't, or so I assume. Another question - did you stay on the force around this time of year back home, too? Bearing in mind that there's still no judgment to be found from me."
"Back home, we do not put the same emphasis on these events as you do. We appreciate our unity in quieter ways, and do not expect rogues and scoundrels to take the day off to party."
Blueshield paused for a bit, then added, "In any case, there was little else to do."
"Well, glad we're not the only one here freezing our hooves off!" Lemongrass called out cheerily, followed closely behind by a scowling Tyrol. Both were in their winter guard outfit. Which mostly consists of a thick woollen sweater underneath their guard armour, with earmuffs to protect their ears.
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "Lemongrass, we're supposed to be on duty, not talking to mares."
Lemongrass shrugged. "Capt'n said nothing about not talking to citizens now."
"Yeah well. If Stormcloak raises a fuss about this, I'm going to say it's all your fault."
The pegasus guard cheerily ignored the comments of his compatriot. "So, ladies, what are you doing out here?"
Blueshield flattened her ears at the word "citizen", seeing as it was not an apt description of her, but said nothing about it.
"The same thing as you are. Keeping watch for potential troublemakers."
"We can remain outside and still keep warm. I believe I saw..." He looks around, and then points at a pair near the tree in the town square. "My father can provide warmth and conversation, and it appears as though he and my mother are not busy, so we can presumably take him wherever we wish to go."
Night Jewel nodded. "Excellent. Normally I'd question dragging him along everywhere, but if he's got a heat spell, I'm fine with that."
She let him lead the way. She felt it would be a little awkward to ask Taylor herself, and she was still somewhat nervous around paladins.
Kelvin360
2013-12-14, 09:47 PM
"Well, glad we're not the only one here freezing our hooves off!" Lemongrass called out cheerily, followed closely behind by a scowling Tyrol. Both were in their winter guard outfit. Which mostly consists of a thick woollen sweater underneath their guard armour, with earmuffs to protect their ears.
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "Lemongrass, we're supposed to be on duty, not talking to mares."
Lemongrass shrugged. "Capt'n said nothing about not talking to citizens now."
"Yeah well. If Stormcloak raises a fuss about this, I'm going to say it's all your fault."
The pegasus guard cheerily ignored the comments of his compatriot. "So, ladies, what are you doing out here?"
"Hey, now, being cold builds character!" Snowstorm shoots back cheekily. "We were just having a chat about keeping up patrols today. I'm guessing the guard here does it too, huh?"
"See, that's what I like 'bout ya, 'Vadraa! Ya're always so kind!"
Flare was taken aback. "An... obligatory transfer of gifts?"
"Yep! It's a tradition! Ya give each other nice things to show yar genrosity! 'N it gets other ponies to show genrosity right back at ya." Blades chuckled and continued nuzzling Arvadraa.
"...I see. However, I still am unsure. Does generosity really mean as much if it is obligatory?"
"Well... Girls, can ya help out a bit?"
"Pfft. No. But are you gonna turn down free gifts just because they're mandated?"
"I wouldn't go so far as to say it's a show of generosity so much as a demonstration of how well you know a pony. A gift is, by its very nature, personalized. It wasn't always that way, of course - historically, gift-giving ceremonies have been more focused on trading necessities so that everypony has what they need at the end of the day instead of simply being a festivity - but in today's society where wants are usually covered, it's become more of a...I suppose hippopologically I would call it a bonding exercise."
"Basically you're supposed to give to show you actually care that the recipient exists. Wild stab - it's a big part of Hearth's Warming because it's supposed to be this big thing about togetherness so we don't get frozen by angry winter spirits."
"Um, I agree with Stellar's bluntness, which feels strange. It's not really the gift - it's the effort that goes into it. It's a symbol, like almost everything will be today."
"Back home, we do not put the same emphasis on these events as you do. We appreciate our unity in quieter ways, and do not expect rogues and scoundrels to take the day off to party."
Blueshield paused for a bit, then added, "In any case, there was little else to do."
Blueshield flattened her ears at the word "citizen", seeing as it was not an apt description of her, but said nothing about it.
"The same thing as you are. Keeping watch for potential troublemakers."
"I can see your point there. It makes sense to keep a close eye on things even when everypony else has a day off. I guess I just never really identified with volunteering for it. Which...thanks. All of you. It can't be easy taking time out of a holiday to look out for the rest of us, even if it isn't as big a deal."
Night Jewel nodded. "Excellent. Normally I'd question dragging him along everywhere, but if he's got a heat spell, I'm fine with that."
She let him lead the way. She felt it would be a little awkward to ask Taylor herself, and she was still somewhat nervous around paladins.
Dawnstrider walks at a half-trot, as though he want to get a move on, but isn't overly thrilled with where he's going. Eventually, though, the end destination is unavoidable.
"-And then hit it from the sides. If I have to watch one more pony try and tackle one of those head-to-head it won't be...oh, hey!" Taylor flashes the pair a grin. "Figured you'd get tired of staying on the outskirts at some point."
"Indeed." Dawnstrider states somewhat gruffly. "We require mild succor."
"It shows." Silver notes worriedly, digging around in a saddlebag. She pulls out what looks like a towel, but made of some sort of soft material that makes it more of a blanket, and offers it to Night Jewel. "Goodness, you look chilled to the bone."
"That is unlikely, but I won't necessarily begrudge you parental hyperbole."
"Says the pony wearing next to no winterwear." The snow around Taylor's hooves begins to melt as he starts producing waves of heat, not unlike a contained and lit fireplace. "Shall we introduce ourselves?"
"Indeed. Night Jewel, you are, I believe, already familiar with Sunshine, my father. This is...my mother, Silver Streak." This spoken almost through gritted teeth.
For her part, Silver seems not to notice. She flashes Jewel a smile. "Always a pleasure to meet one of Dawn's new friends."
HalfTangible
2013-12-15, 02:29 AM
Esmeralda smiled pleasantly when Lone Star returned. "Oh, excellent choice, dear." Her smile widened at his gentle touch on her foreleg. "You know I feel the same way, Star~" she whispered seductively, before catching sight of the shopkeep peeped out behind Lone Star. He warily watched the reactions of the ice blue mare. He blinked in surprise as a bag of bits was tossed his way, which he caught easily with a hoof.
"Now that we're properly dressed, let us be off. See you around, stud~" she said with a wink at the shopkeeper, who promptly flushed as Emseralda sashayed out through the door with Lone Star in tow. Once outside, she stopped to kiss him on the cheek. "Mmm, where to then, dear?"
He grinned and put his good wing around her, kissing her back. How's some hot chocolate sound? Dinner? Dancing? We could go back to your place and turn off all the lights~
He grinned and put his good wing around her, kissing her back. How's some hot chocolate sound? Dinner? Dancing? We could go back to your place and turn off all the lights~
"Why not all of them?" Esmeralda said with a wicked smile, snuggling closer to his warmth. "Though hot chocolate sounds heavenly now~ Reminds me almost of home, this season."
"Back home, we do not put the same emphasis on these events as you do. We appreciate our unity in quieter ways, and do not expect rogues and scoundrels to take the day off to party."
Blueshield paused for a bit, then added, "In any case, there was little else to do."
Blueshield flattened her ears at the word "citizen", seeing as it was not an apt description of her, but said nothing about it.
"The same thing as you are. Keeping watch for potential troublemakers."
"Ya mean y'all don't celebrate Hearth's Warming's Eve where you come from?" Lemongrass said, looking aghast.
"I can see your point there. It makes sense to keep a close eye on things even when everypony else has a day off. I guess I just never really identified with volunteering for it. Which...thanks. All of you. It can't be easy taking time out of a holiday to look out for the rest of us, even if it isn't as big a deal."
Tyrol shrugged. "Well, it's what we're paid to do. Somepony still needs to walk the streets anyhow." He smiled a little. "It's not like we don't get the night off later anyway. I have somepony waiting for me..."
"Knock it off, Ty. Sappy just isn't you. Whatever happened to the stiff I used to know?"
Tyrol ribbed his friend. Hard. "Ponies change y'know."
Benson
2013-12-15, 04:42 PM
Gearstride, Silverpine, and Sandy Shores
"Oh Lieutenant, don't get all shy on me," She grinned lightly kissing his cheek before pulling away and standing in front of her two boys.
"Oh silly Sandy, yer gettin the wrong idea but anyways!....Guess what guess what the Cirrus will be doing for Hearthswarming!" She excitedly grinned and squeaked.
=====
Fox Trot and Icy Touch
As for Fox, the mocha stallion happily trotted over to his lady love's house, dressed in a red sweater with a pair of candy canes crossed. It was cheesy, he knew it, but he was in a good mood and feeling festive that day.
A surprise he had for Icy and he looked forward to showing her it today.
Knock Knock!
Gearstride, Silverpine, and Sandy Shores
"Oh Lieutenant, don't get all shy on me," She grinned lightly kissing his cheek before pulling away and standing in front of her two boys.
"Oh silly Sandy, yer gettin the wrong idea but anyways!....Guess what guess what the Cirrus will be doing for Hearthswarming!" She excitedly grinned and squeaked.
"Captain, I thought we all agreed not to have any trees on the Cirrus," Silverpine said, raising an eyebrow. He had a bad feeling about this.
Fox Trot and Icy Touch
As for Fox, the mocha stallion happily trotted over to his lady love's house, dressed in a red sweater with a pair of candy canes crossed. It was cheesy, he knew it, but he was in a good mood and feeling festive that day.
A surprise he had for Icy and he looked forward to showing her it today.
Knock Knock!
Icy has had a pleasant day so far, with Esmeralda out of the house (and her hair), it was as good as any time to catch up on some reading! In this case, she was quite engrossed in the Studies of Occult Magicks when the door rang. The ice mage crinkled her muzzle at the interruption. "This better not be some kid asking for candy. I thought Nightmare Night was over..." she muttered, as she placed her book aside and went to open the door...
Benson
2013-12-15, 09:41 PM
Icy has had a pleasant day so far, with Esmeralda out of the house (and her hair), it was as good as any time to catch up on some reading! In this case, she was quite engrossed in the Studies of Occult Magicks when the door rang. The ice mage crinkled her muzzle at the interruption. "This better not be some kid asking for candy. I thought Nightmare Night was over..." she muttered, as she placed her book aside and went to open the door...
....and find a kiss on her muzzle from Fox who held over their heads a piece of mistletoe. He stepped back and smiled at her. "Holiday greetings my love, looking beautiful as always."
....and find a kiss on her muzzle from Fox who held over their heads a piece of mistletoe. He stepped back and smiled at her. "Holiday greetings my love, looking beautiful as always."
The kiss took Icy by pleasant surprise, whose face immediately lit up with a smile. "Fox! And I see you brought a present~" she said, glancing up at the mistletoe with an amused smirk, then kissing him on the cheek. She waved for the stallion to step inside. "Come on in~ I'll get a pot of tea ready. Or would you like something else."
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-15, 11:24 PM
Gearstride, Silverpine, and Sandy Shores
"Oh Lieutenant, don't get all shy on me," She grinned lightly kissing his cheek before pulling away and standing in front of her two boys.
"Oh silly Sandy, yer gettin the wrong idea but anyways!"
Sandy pursed his lips fretfully, trying not to think of Rainbow's miserable, tear-stained face if she saw him lending out her dedicated smoochin' space. A stallion ought to save his cheeks for his mare; at least, he was pretty sure he was supposed to. At least he was out of immediate mistletoe range, thank Luna.
"....Guess what guess what the Cirrus will be doing for Hearthswarming!" She excitedly grinned and squeaked.
The little engineer's face brightened. "Are we finally gonna string lights all over th' Cirrus?! Land's sakes, but she'll look awful pretty flyin' through th' snowy night..." He sighed wistfully, picturing his precious ship all decked out with holiday cheer. The very thought brought an earnest grin to his face.
HalfTangible
2013-12-16, 12:01 AM
"Why not all of them?" Esmeralda said with a wicked smile, snuggling closer to his warmth. "Though hot chocolate sounds heavenly now~ Reminds me almost of home, this season."
Lone Star nuzzled her neck. Hot chocolate then. He smiled.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-16, 01:27 AM
"Pfft. No. But are you gonna turn down free gifts just because they're mandated?"
"I wouldn't go so far as to say it's a show of generosity so much as a demonstration of how well you know a pony. A gift is, by its very nature, personalized. It wasn't always that way, of course - historically, gift-giving ceremonies have been more focused on trading necessities so that everypony has what they need at the end of the day instead of simply being a festivity - but in today's society where wants are usually covered, it's become more of a...I suppose hippopologically I would call it a bonding exercise."
"Basically you're supposed to give to show you actually care that the recipient exists. Wild stab - it's a big part of Hearth's Warming because it's supposed to be this big thing about togetherness so we don't get frozen by angry winter spirits."
"Um, I agree with Stellar's bluntness, which feels strange. It's not really the gift - it's the effort that goes into it. It's a symbol, like almost everything will be today."
"And you choose this time of year, rather than just any, because of said spirits?"
"Well, it's not like this is the only time ya'll ever see ponies givin' each other nice things. But yeah, it helps keep us from gettin' too cold here."
"...Then I must think. Think about what to do for you. Excuse me." With that, Flare headed out of the shop.
Blades waved. "Hope ya find something good for us!" She then turned back to Arvadraa, Stellar and Starbeam. "Don't worry, I think she'll be fine. She's just goin' through a bit of culture shock. So, can ya girls guess what I've got for ya?"
"Ya mean y'all don't celebrate Hearth's Warming's Eve where you come from?" Lemongrass said, looking aghast.
"Not like this. Surprising as it may seem, those of us who live in exceptionally hot, dry climates are somewhat less concerned with winter and associated events."
"I can see your point there. It makes sense to keep a close eye on things even when everypony else has a day off. I guess I just never really identified with volunteering for it. Which...thanks. All of you. It can't be easy taking time out of a holiday to look out for the rest of us, even if it isn't as big a deal."
Blueshield nodded. "My business is rarely pleasant, but there are seldom alternatives."
Tyrol shrugged. "Well, it's what we're paid to do. Somepony still needs to walk the streets anyhow." He smiled a little. "It's not like we don't get the night off later anyway. I have somepony waiting for me..."
"Knock it off, Ty. Sappy just isn't you. Whatever happened to the stiff I used to know?"
Tyrol ribbed his friend. Hard. "Ponies change y'know."
"You are fortunate, then. To me, there is no 'time off'. There is, and has always been, work to be done for the protection of others. I work not for pay, but so that others do not have to." She sighed. "Like I said, it is seldom pleasant."
Dawnstrider walks at a half-trot, as though he want to get a move on, but isn't overly thrilled with where he's going. Eventually, though, the end destination is unavoidable.
"-And then hit it from the sides. If I have to watch one more pony try and tackle one of those head-to-head it won't be...oh, hey!" Taylor flashes the pair a grin. "Figured you'd get tired of staying on the outskirts at some point."
"Indeed." Dawnstrider states somewhat gruffly. "We require mild succor."
"It shows." Silver notes worriedly, digging around in a saddlebag. She pulls out what looks like a towel, but made of some sort of soft material that makes it more of a blanket, and offers it to Night Jewel. "Goodness, you look chilled to the bone."
"That is unlikely, but I won't necessarily begrudge you parental hyperbole."
"Says the pony wearing next to no winterwear." The snow around Taylor's hooves begins to melt as he starts producing waves of heat, not unlike a contained and lit fireplace. "Shall we introduce ourselves?"
"Indeed. Night Jewel, you are, I believe, already familiar with Sunshine, my father. This is...my mother, Silver Streak." This spoken almost through gritted teeth.
For her part, Silver seems not to notice. She flashes Jewel a smile. "Always a pleasure to meet one of Dawn's new friends."
"Oh! Thank you." Night Jewel quickly took the blanket and put it over herself. "Back where I came from, there wasn't much of a market for winter clothing."
She took a moment to let herself warm up, then nodded to Silver. "And a pleasure to meet you, too. I sometimes wish I had a caring mother myself."
Benson
2013-12-16, 02:13 AM
The kiss took Icy by pleasant surprise, whose face immediately lit up with a smile. "Fox! And I see you brought a present~" she said, glancing up at the mistletoe with an amused smirk, then kissing him on the cheek. She waved for the stallion to step inside. "Come on in~ I'll get a pot of tea ready. Or would you like something else."
"Well I'll take a another kiss and maybe some hot cocoa...with marshmallows, if you have them....otherwise tea will do," He closed his eyes and nuzzled her before wiping all four hooves on the welcome mat outside, wiggling off some snow off his hooves. He walked inside and plopped his cold self on the couch.
========
Gearstride, Silverpine, Sandy
Gearstride gave Silverpine a glum look and wrinkled her muzzle. "I didn't really agree....don't see why you couldn't settle for a fake one..." She grumbled with a slight pout until Sandy spoke in which she snapped out of it and returned to her original enthusiastic state.
"Well, we can do that too....but....I signed us up to be part of Bridle Shores Hearthswarming Day pageant!" She happily declared. Surely these two were just as enthusiastic about this too.
Kelvin360
2013-12-16, 03:04 AM
"And you choose this time of year, rather than just any, because of said spirits?"
"Well, it's not like this is the only time ya'll ever see ponies givin' each other nice things. But yeah, it helps keep us from gettin' too cold here."
"...Then I must think. Think about what to do for you. Excuse me." With that, Flare headed out of the shop.
Blades waved. "Hope ya find something good for us!" She then turned back to Arvadraa, Stellar and Starbeam. "Don't worry, I think she'll be fine. She's just goin' through a bit of culture shock. So, can ya girls guess what I've got for ya?"
"Is it weapons?" Stellar asks innocently, earning her an annoyed look from Arvadraa.
"I'm guessing it's constructed." She says, nibbling on a cookie. "If I had to say for sure...some kind of armor? No...I'm no expert, but doesn't guessing defeat the potential element of surprise?"
"The momentary feeling of victory is a gift in itself! Now let's see...is it a vegetable or a mineral?"
"Not like this. Surprising as it may seem, those of us who live in exceptionally hot, dry climates are somewhat less concerned with winter and associated events."
Blueshield nodded. "My business is rarely pleasant, but there are seldom alternatives."
"You are fortunate, then. To me, there is no 'time off'. There is, and has always been, work to be done for the protection of others. I work not for pay, but so that others do not have to." She sighed. "Like I said, it is seldom pleasant."
"Seldom pleasant? It is your calling though, right?"
"Oh! Thank you." Night Jewel quickly took the blanket and put it over herself. "Back where I came from, there wasn't much of a market for winter clothing."
She took a moment to let herself warm up, then nodded to Silver. "And a pleasure to meet you, too. I sometimes wish I had a caring mother myself."
Dawnstrider takes that moment to look away, subsiding into an awkward silence.
"Well I'm more than happy to make myself available to somepony who needs one. Where exactly do you come from, if you don't mind my asking? I'm picturing someplace arid."
Lycan 01
2013-12-16, 04:37 AM
[Skies Over Ponyville]
As Blueshield, Lemongrass, Tyrol, and Snowstorm chatter about Saddle Arabia, Hearthswarming Eve, and the glory of law enforcement and patriotic duty, one or more of them may notice something slowly odd about a nearby cloud that's lazily drifting along.
Specifically, the batpony lazily sprawled out on it. It would seem that Purple Prose has decided to abandon his intimidating purple and blue Lunar Guard armor in favor of a black hoodie and purple scarf. Sans helmet and with his hood down, Prose's mane is much more shaggy and loose, with a few locks hanging down to obscure the eyepatch covering his right eye. His cutie mark is also left visible - a scroll of parchment and a purple writing quill. Quite an odd image for a former Shadowbolt to have on their flank, and also the pair of items he currently has in his hooves as he looks out over the snow covered town beneath him, muttering to himself as his ears pin back and his tail gives a flick of annoyance.
"No no no, too clunky. Needs to flow better. Maybe a haiku?" he grumbles, before looking back down at the parchment and resuming his writing, oblivious to the four chatting ponies nearby.
Such an imposing guardian of the night...
"Well I'll take a another kiss and maybe some hot cocoa...with marshmallows, if you have them....otherwise tea will do," He closed his eyes and nuzzled her before wiping all four hooves on the welcome mat outside, wiggling off some snow off his hooves. He walked inside and plopped his cold self on the couch.
"Oh, I do have some hot cocoa... and I think I still have a packet of marshmallows somewhere..." Icy said, skipping inside. Already, Fox could hear the kettle boiling, and the sound of Icy humming happily as she busied herself in the kitchen.
Gearstride, Silverpine, Sandy
Gearstride gave Silverpine a glum look and wrinkled her muzzle. "I didn't really agree....don't see why you couldn't settle for a fake one..." She grumbled with a slight pout until Sandy spoke in which she snapped out of it and returned to her original enthusiastic state.
"Well, we can do that too....but....I signed us up to be part of Bridle Shores Hearthswarming Day pageant!" She happily declared. Surely these two were just as enthusiastic about this too.
Silverpine stared at Gear with a deadpan expression. "Captain. Tell me you're joking."
"Not like this. Surprising as it may seem, those of us who live in exceptionally hot, dry climates are somewhat less concerned with winter and associated events."
Blueshield nodded. "My business is rarely pleasant, but there are seldom alternatives."
"You are fortunate, then. To me, there is no 'time off'. There is, and has always been, work to be done for the protection of others. I work not for pay, but so that others do not have to." She sighed. "Like I said, it is seldom pleasant."
"Seldom pleasant? It is your calling though, right?"
"Sounds like somepony needs to relax~" Lemongrass said, laughing. "Hmm... why don't you come with us after our patrol? We could show you the best bars Bridle Shores has to offer."
"Please tell me you're not going to bring them to the Drum."
Lemongrass wrapped a foreleg around Tyrol's shoulders, gesturing dramatically. "That's the spirit, Tyrol! Never a finer establishment for alcohol, cider and atmosphere."
The sound of Tyrol facehoofing echoed into the air. Neither of the derp guards noticed Prose. :smalltongue:
Lone Star nuzzled her neck. Hot chocolate then. He smiled.
"Your place then?" Esmeralda giggled. "I was on my way there after all, when you walked like naked as your birthright. Icy's being a stiff, so it's no fun there."
Benson
2013-12-16, 01:06 PM
"Oh, I do have some hot cocoa... and I think I still have a packet of marshmallows somewhere..." Icy said, skipping inside. Already, Fox could hear the kettle boiling, and the sound of Icy humming happily as she busied herself in the kitchen.
Fox Trot just laid there, getting himself warmed up, waiting for Icy to return. he fluffed some pillows and placed them on top of himself.
"Soo...Icy, do you have any plans for today?" He asked 'casually' and was totally not trying to gauge an answer for reasons.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-16, 11:04 PM
Gearstride, Silverpine, Sandy
Gearstride gave Silverpine a glum look and wrinkled her muzzle. "I didn't really agree....don't see why you couldn't settle for a fake one..." She grumbled with a slight pout until Sandy spoke in which she snapped out of it and returned to her original enthusiastic state.
"Well, we can do that too....but....I signed us up to be part of Bridle Shores Hearthswarming Day pageant!" She happily declared. Surely these two were just as enthusiastic about this too.
Sandy's eyes...lit up brighter than the lights on a Hearth's Warming tree.
Silverpine stared at Gear with a deadpan expression. "Captain. Tell me you're joking."
"Silverpine? Y'ain't serious, are you?" The little unicorn stared at his friend with a shocked expression. "Why, this sounds right up th' alley of any good Cirrus crew! Lendin' a hoof t'th' local folk, makin' 'em smile an' laugh an' cry so hard they forget their troubles, an' most importantly..." He motioned to the massive tree behind them, and the scores of ponies cavorting and making merry in the town square. "Makin' sure that this day is as special an' magical as it ought t'be!"
He nodded determinedly, a hint of moisture gathering in his eyes. "If that ain't a duty for th' Cirrus Crew, then I don't know what is!"
(Wow. Sandy's been out of commission for so long, I forgot he's got some moxie in him.)
MCerberus
2013-12-16, 11:20 PM
Meanwhile
Staccata's grumpy. She's been grumpy for a while. The mare simply doesn't handle winter well for... reasons involving Manehatten. Plus in all the insane shopping frenzy it's even harder to find a decent replacement cloak. All the tailors are busy yet again and nopony knows when one will be available.
So the rogue is walking the streets ready to grump at somepony.
Fox Trot just laid there, getting himself warmed up, waiting for Icy to return. he fluffed some pillows and placed them on top of himself.
"Soo...Icy, do you have any plans for today?" He asked 'casually' and was totally not trying to gauge an answer for reasons.
"Well, I was planning on a quiet day of reading... but I'm guessing that is now out of the window?" Icy said, as she reappeared with a cup of hot chocolate for Fox, marshmallows piled in a bowl and a cup of tea for herself. She set the ensemble down on the coffee table, and went to snuggle him.
Sandy's eyes...lit up brighter than the lights on a Hearth's Warming tree.
"Silverpine? Y'ain't serious, are you?" The little unicorn stared at his friend with a shocked expression. "Why, this sounds right up th' alley of any good Cirrus crew! Lendin' a hoof t'th' local folk, makin' 'em smile an' laugh an' cry so hard they forget their troubles, an' most importantly..." He motioned to the massive tree behind them, and the scores of ponies cavorting and making merry in the town square. "Makin' sure that this day is as special an' magical as it ought t'be!"
He nodded determinedly, a hint of moisture gathering in his eyes. "If that ain't a duty for th' Cirrus Crew, then I don't know what is!"
(Wow. Sandy's been out of commission for so long, I forgot he's got some moxie in him.)
"I think you overestimate the skills of the Cirrus in these matters, Mr Shores," the lieutenant said good naturedly. He wasn't really saying no, but his cautious streak was making itself felt again.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-17, 03:04 AM
"Is it weapons?" Stellar asks innocently, earning her an annoyed look from Arvadraa.
"I'm guessing it's constructed." She says, nibbling on a cookie. "If I had to say for sure...some kind of armor? No...I'm no expert, but doesn't guessing defeat the potential element of surprise?"
"The momentary feeling of victory is a gift in itself! Now let's see...is it a vegetable or a mineral?"
Blades laughed. "Well, if ya can guess, it's not too surprisin' anyway. But ya're only close to one of the things. I'm gettin' something for 'Vadraa, something for Stellar, 'n something for both of ya, sort of, 'n all of 'em are made mostly of metal. Not sure what I'm doin' 'bout yar sister yet, though."
"Seldom pleasant? It is your calling though, right?"
Blueshield twitched her ears. "It was not a whim that drove me to devote my life to the protection of others, if that is what you intend to insinuate."
"Sounds like somepony needs to relax~" Lemongrass said, laughing. "Hmm... why don't you come with us after our patrol? We could show you the best bars Bridle Shores has to offer."
"Please tell me you're not going to bring them to the Drum."
Lemongrass wrapped a foreleg around Tyrol's shoulders, gesturing dramatically. "That's the spirit, Tyrol! Never a finer establishment for alcohol, cider and atmosphere."
The sound of Tyrol facepalming echoed into the air. Neither of the derp guards noticed Prose. :smalltongue:
"Bars? Alcohol?" Blueshield stared at them, looking a mixture of startled and irritated. "I hardly see any excuse for a pony of my stature to inhibit her mental functions via the consumption of intoxicants as a means of self-diversion. Alcohol is a root to all varieties of foul conduct, and I dare not partake of it."
She hesitated for a moment. When she spoke again, she seemed less sure of herself. "...Perhaps the company would do me good, however."
Dawnstrider takes that moment to look away, subsiding into an awkward silence.
"Well I'm more than happy to make myself available to somepony who needs one. Where exactly do you come from, if you don't mind my asking? I'm picturing someplace arid."
They don't seem to get along too well. Why might that be? Did something bad happen between them? I'll have to ask later.
Night Jewel nodded. "Oh, you're quite right there, Miss Silver. I'm from the Mareabic deserts. I may return someday, when I have a more stable position in life. But for now, I'm staying where the best opportunities are, even if this place can be cold and miserable at times."
Kelvin360
2013-12-17, 03:37 AM
Blades laughed. "Well, if ya can guess, it's not too surprisin' anyway. But ya're only close to one of the things. I'm gettin' something for 'Vadraa, something for Stellar, 'n something for both of ya, sort of, 'n all of 'em are made mostly of metal."
"So it IS a mineral! Let's see...does it have spots?"
"I actually can't tell whether you're still joking, and that worries me a bit."
"Does it combine with something to make something else? Does it do tricks? Is it lethal?"
"Not sure what I'm doin' 'bout yar sister yet, though."
"How about a nice book?" Again with the innocent tone, complete with batting eyelashes this time.
"Okay, now THAT was a joke."
"I could use a new read, actually. I didn't bring any materials here with me, and on the off-chance I get some free time, I can't well spend it all on calculations. Despite numbers being the foundation of the universe, spending a long time thinking about them is really dull."
Blueshield twitched her ears. "It was not a whim that drove me to devote my life to the protection of others, if that is what you intend to insinuate."
"I'm insinuating the exact opposite, actually. It's never a whim - it's something you just do. Like your whole life you've been waiting for the opportunity, and now that you can do something about it, you can't imagine doing anything else. I'll raise you one better, too. This call of ours leaves signs, marks of other types. I bet your cutie mark is as oriented towards this as you are. Something metaphorically or literally defensive, or both. Armor, shield, ward, and so on?
You don't have to answer that if you don't want to. Thing is, though - and this is where I slide into real judgment, so I apologize in advance - you strike me as the type of pony whose devotion takes the top of the list. I've seen that a couple of times, and I'll go so far to say it's a good thing, as extremes go. But I made that point earlier about what you do allowing the continuation of the lives of those around you as a reminder that it still excludes you from the race everypony else is running.
It's hard to find a balance between civilian life and guardianship, and I'm not saying you should find it. That's a choice everypony has to make on their own terms. But there's nothing wrong with putting on a smile and having a good time, either. Anyway, I'm done with my super-rant, now."
"Bars? Alcohol?" Blueshield stared at them, looking a mixture of startled and irritated. "I hardly see any excuse for a pony of my stature to inhibit her mental functions via the consumption of intoxicants as a means of self-diversion. Alcohol is a root to all varieties of foul conduct, and I dare not partake of it."
She hesitated for a moment. When she spoke again, she seemed less sure of herself. "...Perhaps the company would do me good, however."
"If the point is to get a treat, Apple Family Cider comes non-alcoholic. That stuff will change your life. And, of course, ice cream is the everpresent standby."
Night Jewel nodded. "Oh, you're quite right there, Miss Silver. I'm from the Mareabic deserts. I may return someday, when I have a more stable position in life. But for now, I'm staying where the best opportunities are, even if this place can be cold and miserable at times."
"Ahh, Mareabia." Taylor gets a far-off look in his eyes. "Still a crying shame I've never been. You'd probably consider yourself to have seen enough sand and sun to last a lifetime, but aside from all that, what's it like over there?"
HalfTangible
2013-12-17, 04:03 AM
"Your place then?" Esmeralda giggled. "I was on my way there after all, when you walked like naked as your birthright. Icy's being a stiff, so it's no fun there."
And so they went to Lone Star's place... which, considering that there was little heating, was oddly warm.
...Oh dear lord, he actually put up SO MANY BOOKS ON THE WALLS it keeps the place insulated?! How does THAT make any sense?! Where does the heat come from? Doesn't he take those down all the time to read? In fact, couldn't he just do that and-
SHUT UP! Lone Star yelled, throwing a book at the narratOW! It works, leave it alone!
Benson
2013-12-17, 07:24 AM
Sandy's eyes...lit up brighter than the lights on a Hearth's Warming tree.
"Silverpine? Y'ain't serious, are you?" The little unicorn stared at his friend with a shocked expression. "Why, this sounds right up th' alley of any good Cirrus crew! Lendin' a hoof t'th' local folk, makin' 'em smile an' laugh an' cry so hard they forget their troubles, an' most importantly..." He motioned to the massive tree behind them, and the scores of ponies cavorting and making merry in the town square. "Makin' sure that this day is as special an' magical as it ought t'be!"
He nodded determinedly, a hint of moisture gathering in his eyes. "If that ain't a duty for th' Cirrus Crew, then I don't know what is!"
"I think you overestimate the skills of the Cirrus in these matters, Mr Shores," the lieutenant said good naturedly. He wasn't really saying no, but his cautious streak was making itself felt again.
"And you're underestimating your crew, love." She nuzzled Silverpine. "Get in the holiday spirit, then your eyes will see, just how fun this could all be."
She looked at Sandy and nodded her head. "Thank you Shores, for your support. That's exactly the kind of mindset one should have!"
===
"Well, I was planning on a quiet day of reading... but I'm guessing that is now out of the window?" Icy said, as she reappeared with a cup of hot chocolate for Fox, marshmallows piled in a bowl and a cup of tea for herself. She set the ensemble down on the coffee table, and went to snuggle him.
Fox looked agasp at her response and held at her hooves length by the forelegs, and unintentionally denying her, her snuggles. He stared at her furrowing his brows with a small concerned frown.
"Were you really planning on spending today, alone, reading?....You do know what today is right?"
And so they went to Lone Star's place... which, considering that there was little heating, was oddly warm.
...Oh dear lord, he actually put up SO MANY BOOKS ON THE WALLS it keeps the place insulated?! How does THAT make any sense?! Where does the heat come from? Doesn't he take those down all the time to read? In fact, couldn't he just do that and-
SHUT UP! Lone Star yelled, throwing a book at the narratOW! It works, leave it alone!
Esmeralda blissfully missed the meta-argument that was going on the background. Instead she trotted towards one of the many stacks of books piled up high against the wall, whistling. "Star, you really do need to cut down on all these dusty tomes."
"And you're underestimating your crew, love." She nuzzled Silverpine. "Get in the holiday spirit, then your eyes will see, just how fun this could all be."
She looked at Sandy and nodded her head. "Thank you Shores, for your support. That's exactly the kind of mindset one should have!"
Silverpine chuckled, and shook his head. "I guess I should. I just... well, I guess I'm just belly-achin' for nothing." He put on a smile for the two, then looked towards the giant tree that had been put up in the square, looking just a little wistful.
Fox looked agasp at her response and held at her hooves length by the forelegs, and unintentionally denying her, her snuggles. He stared at her furrowing his brows with a small concerned frown.
"Were you really planning on spending today, alone, reading?....You do know what today is right?"
"Today is... winter?" Icy hazarded, clearly out of touch with time. :smalltongue: She also looked mildly bemused by the lack of snuggles. Usually Fox was the one who eagerly jumped for PDAs.
"Bars? Alcohol?" Blueshield stared at them, looking a mixture of startled and irritated. "I hardly see any excuse for a pony of my stature to inhibit her mental functions via the consumption of intoxicants as a means of self-diversion. Alcohol is a root to all varieties of foul conduct, and I dare not partake of it."
She hesitated for a moment. When she spoke again, she seemed less sure of herself. "...Perhaps the company would do me good, however."
"Attagal! That's the spirit!" Lemongrass said, smiling devilishly. Then he looked to Tyrol. "Twenty bits," he said, holding out his hoof expectantly.
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "Oh no. Our bet was when she drinks the cider. Not before. So you haven't won yet."
Lemongrass snorted. "What? This totally counts. Now pony up the bits."
"No uh. I know what we bet on and that's on her drinking first."
"Aw, you're such a stiff."
"I'm insinuating the exact opposite, actually. It's never a whim - it's something you just do. Like your whole life you've been waiting for the opportunity, and now that you can do something about it, you can't imagine doing anything else. I'll raise you one better, too. This call of ours leaves signs, marks of other types. I bet your cutie mark is as oriented towards this as you are. Something metaphorically or literally defensive, or both. Armor, shield, ward, and so on?
You don't have to answer that if you don't want to. Thing is, though - and this is where I slide into real judgment, so I apologize in advance - you strike me as the type of pony whose devotion takes the top of the list. I've seen that a couple of times, and I'll go so far to say it's a good thing, as extremes go. But I made that point earlier about what you do allowing the continuation of the lives of those around you as a reminder that it still excludes you from the race everypony else is running.
It's hard to find a balance between civilian life and guardianship, and I'm not saying you should find it. That's a choice everypony has to make on their own terms. But there's nothing wrong with putting on a smile and having a good time, either. Anyway, I'm done with my super-rant, now."
"If the point is to get a treat, Apple Family Cider comes non-alcoholic. That stuff will change your life. And, of course, ice cream is the everpresent standby."
"Ma'am, you sound like Harten there. No offense," Lemongrass said, tweaking his ear.
Lycan 01
2013-12-17, 02:52 PM
[Up in the Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"Nicely put."
There's a batpony hovering upside-down right above Snowstorm now, forehooves folded nonchalantly and wearing a lazy smirk, studying her with his good eye. How Purple Prose managed to get from his cloud to there without anybody's notice is- well, it's probably not that hard to believe, since nobody seemed to be paying any attention to him. And plus, Shadowbolt!
"Some ponies just want to see the world burn," he muses thoughtfully, "While others just want to do everything in their power to see that such a thing never comes to pass. Of course, they don't always bear cutie marks that reflect their passion for protection," he says with a knowing smirk, being one of those said exceptions.
The batpony gives a quick strong flap of one wing, and flips himself around right-side-up. "Anyway, I could wax philosophically and poetically on patriotic duty and guardianship and knowing how to balance between professionalism and not going overboard, buuuuuut that's boring," he shrugs. "It's the holidays. We should be talking about our favorite carols or what gifts we got our friends or something. Or food. Food is a good topic too," Prose says with a crooked grin.
Benson
2013-12-17, 06:56 PM
"Today is... winter?" Icy hazarded, clearly out of touch with time. :smalltongue: She also looked mildly bemused by the lack of snuggles. Usually Fox was the one who eagerly jumped for PDAs.
Fox sputtered. "Babe....Its Hearthswarming....OUR FIRST Hearthswarming together..." He gave her a light smooch on her muzzle. "I was hoping we could spend it together, maybe like a little family." He said as he lightly touched Icy's belly and went all sappy on her.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-17, 07:53 PM
"And you're underestimating your crew, love." She nuzzled Silverpine. "Get in the holiday spirit, then your eyes will see, just how fun this could all be."
She looked at Sandy and nodded her head. "Thank you Shores, for your support. That's exactly the kind of mindset one should have!"
"I think you overestimate the skills of the Cirrus in these matters, Mr Shores," the lieutenant said good naturedly. He wasn't really saying no, but his cautious streak was making itself felt again.
Sandy threw a sharp salute to his Captain. "Aye-aye, Cap'n! I think we can figure it out; t'ain't th' first time we've had to pick up new skills on th' run. Besides, we've got pageant...experience..."
He fell silent, flashes of a very interesting trip to Trottingham running through his mind.
"Er...I'm not gonna have t'wear a dress in this one, right?" He coughed into his hoof, trying - and failing - to hide his steaming red cheeks.
HalfTangible
2013-12-17, 07:59 PM
Esmeralda blissfully missed the meta-argument that was going on the background. Instead she trotted towards one of the many stacks of books piled up high against the wall, whistling. "Star, you really do need to cut down on all these dusty tomes."
They're how I make my living, Es. My books only make so much, I also run a library, remember. He replied. And I read a lot of them. A good book is like fine wine - ya can't let the dust on the outside fool ya.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-17, 08:40 PM
"So it IS a mineral! Let's see...does it have spots?"
"I actually can't tell whether you're still joking, and that worries me a bit."
"Does it combine with something to make something else? Does it do tricks? Is it lethal?"
"No, not necessarly, depends on what ya mean by 'tricks', 'n if ya use it right!"
"How about a nice book?" Again with the innocent tone, complete with batting eyelashes this time.
"Okay, now THAT was a joke."
"I could use a new read, actually. I didn't bring any materials here with me, and on the off-chance I get some free time, I can't well spend it all on calculations. Despite numbers being the foundation of the universe, spending a long time thinking about them is really dull."
Blades nodded. "I see! I think I can find some nice readin' for ya. Ya like stories, or do ya prefer to learn new things from yar books?"
"I'm insinuating the exact opposite, actually. It's never a whim - it's something you just do. Like your whole life you've been waiting for the opportunity, and now that you can do something about it, you can't imagine doing anything else. I'll raise you one better, too. This call of ours leaves signs, marks of other types. I bet your cutie mark is as oriented towards this as you are. Something metaphorically or literally defensive, or both. Armor, shield, ward, and so on?
Blueshield looked rather insulted. "My mark is a shield, and I am well aware of what it means. I am not some developing foal requiring instruction into my life."
You don't have to answer that if you don't want to. Thing is, though - and this is where I slide into real judgment, so I apologize in advance - you strike me as the type of pony whose devotion takes the top of the list. I've seen that a couple of times, and I'll go so far to say it's a good thing, as extremes go. But I made that point earlier about what you do allowing the continuation of the lives of those around you as a reminder that it still excludes you from the race everypony else is running.
It's hard to find a balance between civilian life and guardianship, and I'm not saying you should find it. That's a choice everypony has to make on their own terms. But there's nothing wrong with putting on a smile and having a good time, either. Anyway, I'm done with my super-rant, now."
"I did not ask for advice on my current state of affairs, either."
"If the point is to get a treat, Apple Family Cider comes non-alcoholic. That stuff will change your life. And, of course, ice cream is the everpresent standby."
For a moment, Blueshield calmed down. "I suppose those will do no harm, though..."
"Attagal! That's the spirit!" Lemongrass said, smiling devilishly. Then he looked to Tyrol. "Twenty bits," he said, holding out his hoof expectantly.
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "Oh no. Our bet was when she drinks the cider. Not before. So you haven't won yet."
Lemongrass snorted. "What? This totally counts. Now pony up the bits."
"No uh. I know what we bet on and that's on her drinking first."
"Aw, you're such a stiff."
That moment was over. The Knight Commander gritted her teeth and flattened her ears against her skull.
"I do not appreciate your treatment of my decision to partake in your activities as a source of entertainment, particularly when said entertainment involves the staking of currency upon the outcome."
"Ahh, Mareabia." Taylor gets a far-off look in his eyes. "Still a crying shame I've never been. You'd probably consider yourself to have seen enough sand and sun to last a lifetime, but aside from all that, what's it like over there?"
"It's... different from here. I'm not sure how to describe it. It's very open and free, and the sky is so clear and beautiful all the time. There aren't always a lot of resources there, though. The wandering merchants live the best there."
Kelvin360
2013-12-17, 09:47 PM
[Up in the Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"Nicely put."
There's a batpony hovering upside-down right above Snowstorm now, forehooves folded nonchalantly and wearing a lazy smirk, studying her with his good eye. How Purple Prose managed to get from his cloud to there without anybody's notice is- well, it's probably not that hard to believe, since nobody seemed to be paying any attention to him. And plus, Shadowbolt!
"Some ponies just want to see the world burn," he muses thoughtfully, "While others just want to do everything in their power to see that such a thing never comes to pass. Of course, they don't always bear cutie marks that reflect their passion for protection," he says with a knowing smirk, being one of those said exceptions.
The batpony gives a quick strong flap of one wing, and flips himself around right-side-up. "Anyway, I could wax philosophically and poetically on patriotic duty and guardianship and knowing how to balance between professionalism and not going overboard, buuuuuut that's boring," he shrugs. "It's the holidays. We should be talking about our favorite carols or what gifts we got our friends or something. Or food. Food is a good topic too," Prose says with a crooked grin.
"I never got burning things." She says nonchalantly. "I mean, sure, I could see it being mildly pretty, waves of scorching and destruction notwithstanding, but after it's all over you need to wipe up the ashes and rebuild what you need. That and it's easy to singe yourself when you play with matches.
What do you usually do around the holidays? Are Shadowbolt present exchanges classified?" She grins and winks at him.
"No, not necessarly, depends on what ya mean by 'tricks', 'n if ya use it right!"
"Soooo...Swiss Army Knife?"
"It doesn't necessarily have to be a knife..."
"So what, a Swiss Army Llama?"
"I can say that I know for sure those do not exist. Which is a shame. You can do a lot with Llamas."
Blades nodded. "I see! I think I can find some nice readin' for ya. Ya like stories, or do ya prefer to learn new things from yar books?"
"Hmm...I like to think that good stories accomplish both. But if I had to choose one of those recreationally, I'd prefer to be entertained."
Blueshield looked rather insulted. "My mark is a shield, and I am well aware of what it means. I am not some developing foal requiring instruction into my life."
"I did not ask for advice on my current state of affairs, either."
Snowstorm nods and put on the kind of smile one displays when they've achieved a goal but aren't happy about it. It's more a halfway point between reassuring expression and a grimace. "I knew two of those three. But I'm still flying blind. I barely know anything about you, but I'm going about trying to fix that. So I'm sorry. Try to keep in mind there's an underlying intent here that isn't malevolent, though - so if I end up saying something offensive again, it's not because I'm trying to, and I'm sorry again in advance. And also because I didn't really open with that intent. There's a lot of things I should've mentioned to start with, now that I think on it."
That moment was over. The Knight Commander gritted her teeth and flattened her ears against her skull.
"I do not appreciate your treatment of my decision to partake in your activities as a source of entertainment, particularly when said entertainment involves the staking of currency upon the outcome."
Cue deadpan expression. "That being said, there's this thing called tact, you two. Outside of the movies, you're usually supposed to hedge bets when whoever you're betting on isn't actually right there."
"It's... different from here. I'm not sure how to describe it. It's very open and free, and the sky is so clear and beautiful all the time. There aren't always a lot of resources there, though. The wandering merchants live the best there."
"Do those merchants stay between cities, or is there a decent tradeway between, say, there and Equestria?"
They're how I make my living, Es. My books only make so much, I also run a library, remember. He replied. And I read a lot of them. A good book is like fine wine - ya can't let the dust on the outside fool ya.
"Really? Icy found that interesting. I don't quite see why," Esmeralda said with a bored tone, lifting a book off the shelves to flip idly through it. Truly, her other "twin" was of opposite inclination to the original.
For a moment, Blueshield calmed down. "I suppose those will do no harm, though..."
That moment was over. The Knight Commander gritted her teeth and flattened her ears against her skull.
"I do not appreciate your treatment of my decision to partake in your activities as a source of entertainment, particularly when said entertainment involves the staking of currency upon the outcome."
Cue deadpan expression. "That being said, there's this thing called tact, you two. Outside of the movies, you're usually supposed to hedge bets when whoever you're betting on isn't actually right there."
Even Lemongrass, naturally oblivious as he was, could suddenly feel the weight of disapproval being heaped on the pair. Tyrol quickly stepped in to retrieve the situation. "My apologies, Miss Blueshield. Lemongrass here likes to bet on anything and everything. It's nothing personal. If we have offended you, then my most sincere apologies. I'm sure loudmouth here would be more than happy to buy us all a round of cider."
"But--"
Tyrol coughed loudly. "I said, loudmouth here would be more than happy to buy us a round of cider."
Lemongrass looked at Blueshield. Then at Snowstorm. Then sighed, ears folding in defeat. "... fine."
Fox sputtered. "Babe....Its Hearthswarming....OUR FIRST Hearthswarming together..." He gave her a light smooch on her muzzle. "I was hoping we could spend it together, maybe like a little family." He said as he lightly touched Icy's belly and went all sappy on her.
"... oh, is it Hearth's Warming already? I could've swore that was a week off," Icy said, blinking. Silly mare could be so nerdy at times. She had to chuckle at the sap Fox was practically exuding, nuzzling him. "Yes... I suppose we better make it a special occasion then."
Sandy threw a sharp salute to his Captain. "Aye-aye, Cap'n! I think we can figure it out; t'ain't th' first time we've had to pick up new skills on th' run. Besides, we've got pageant...experience..."
He fell silent, flashes of a very interesting trip to Trottingham running through his mind.
"Er...I'm not gonna have t'wear a dress in this one, right?" He coughed into his hoof, trying - and failing - to hide his steaming red cheeks.
"... No, Mr Shores. I'm sure we don't need to repeat that particular experience," Silverpine said with a deadpan.
Lycan 01
2013-12-18, 02:57 AM
"I never got burning things." She says nonchalantly. "I mean, sure, I could see it being mildly pretty, waves of scorching and destruction notwithstanding, but after it's all over you need to wipe up the ashes and rebuild what you need. That and it's easy to singe yourself when you play with matches.
What do you usually do around the holidays? Are Shadowbolt present exchanges classified?" She grins and winks at him.
"I personally enjoy my downtime, watch a few Hearthswarming Eve plays and pageants, attend a party or two, and indulge in a variety of festive snacks, hot cocoas, and coffees," Purple Prose observes aloofly.
His expression then goes flat. "And I can neither confirm or deny the holiday gift-giving tendencies of Her Majesty's Shadowbolts," he deadpans, before giving a small, playful wink.
He opts to stay out of the small conflict between Blueshield and the other ponies. Not really his business or place to get involved there...
Benson
2013-12-18, 07:21 AM
Sandy threw a sharp salute to his Captain. "Aye-aye, Cap'n! I think we can figure it out; t'ain't th' first time we've had to pick up new skills on th' run. Besides, we've got pageant...experience..."
He fell silent, flashes of a very interesting trip to Trottingham running through his mind.
"Er...I'm not gonna have t'wear a dress in this one, right?" He coughed into his hoof, trying - and failing - to hide his steaming red cheeks.
"... No, Mr Shores. I'm sure we don't need to repeat that particular experience," Silverpine said with a deadpan.
"Not that kind of pageant Shores, two different things....but...you'll only have to wear a dress if you really want to," She grinned.
"Anyways, the Civic Center is sorta the host, gonna be in the town park, other venues were too pricey or something."
"... oh, is it Hearth's Warming already? I could've swore that was a week off," Icy said, blinking. Silly mare could be so nerdy at times. She had to chuckle at the sap Fox was practically exuding, nuzzling him. "Yes... I suppose we better make it a special occasion then."
"Oh Icy..." He chuckled at her response about not knowing it was Hearthswarming. Another light nuzzle for his nerdy lady. "Anyways...I was thinking....something a little winter wonderland.....Oh!.....maybe we can get some festive decorations for your...spartan house......and then winter wonderland date stuffs." He looked around the livingroom and took the moment to also take a sip from his cocoa on the coffee table.
HalfTangible
2013-12-18, 09:11 PM
"Really? Icy found that interesting. I don't quite see why," Esmeralda said with a bored tone, lifting a book off the shelves to flip idly through it. Truly, her other "twin" was of opposite inclination to the original.
Lone Star shrugged as he went to make hot chocolate. I've got voices in my head. Nopony's perfect.
Es had grabbed a book entitled Whole Ruins by White Swan. From her brief glances, it seemed a sci-fi action story about three armies clashing for control of a powerful artifact. The perspective shifted between the three factions - a race of various anthromorphic animals with powerful technology, a hive-minded race of psychics, and a single squad of super soldiers.
... Apparently this was not one of the 'wine bottles' Lone Star was talking about.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-19, 05:00 AM
"Soooo...Swiss Army Knife?"
"It doesn't necessarily have to be a knife..."
"So what, a Swiss Army Llama?"
"I can say that I know for sure those do not exist. Which is a shame. You can do a lot with Llamas."
"It's a lil' hard to get llamas up here. Not even parts of 'em. It's not a llama, at any rate. I spose it's got a part with a knife-like quality, though..."
"Hmm...I like to think that good stories accomplish both. But if I had to choose one of those recreationally, I'd prefer to be entertained."
Blades grinned. "Great! Just workin' 'n tryin' to think all the time is a lil' tirin' sometimes. I'll see what I've got for ya in a bit, then. I think I've got a couple of adventure books by Long Story that I haven't read in a while."
Snowstorm nods and put on the kind of smile one displays when they've achieved a goal but aren't happy about it. It's more a halfway point between reassuring expression and a grimace. "I knew two of those three. But I'm still flying blind. I barely know anything about you, but I'm going about trying to fix that. So I'm sorry. Try to keep in mind there's an underlying intent here that isn't malevolent, though - so if I end up saying something offensive again, it's not because I'm trying to, and I'm sorry again in advance. And also because I didn't really open with that intent. There's a lot of things I should've mentioned to start with, now that I think on it."
"...I suppose your intentions were acceptable, although your methods were a little lacking. I suggest an alternative method for acquiring familiarity. Normal introductions should not involve the complete dissection of another pony's personal matters."
Cue deadpan expression. "That being said, there's this thing called tact, you two. Outside of the movies, you're usually supposed to hedge bets when whoever you're betting on isn't actually right there."
Even Lemongrass, naturally oblivious as he was, could suddenly feel the weight of disapproval being heaped on the pair. Tyrol quickly stepped in to retrieve the situation. "My apologies, Miss Blueshield. Lemongrass here likes to bet on anything and everything. It's nothing personal. If we have offended you, then my most sincere apologies. I'm sure loudmouth here would be more than happy to buy us all a round of cider."
"But--"
Tyrol coughed loudly. "I said, loudmouth here would be more than happy to buy us a round of cider."
Lemongrass looked at Blueshield. Then at Snowstorm. Then sighed, ears folding in defeat. "... fine."
Blueshield calmed down again. "Better. Thank you." She gave a nod. "Your respect is appreciated. Now, where would your bar happen to be?"
"Do those merchants stay between cities, or is there a decent tradeway between, say, there and Equestria?"
"Naturally! The trade routes between here and there are less active than they once were due to some foals trying to earn banditry cutie marks by pillaging them, but they're becoming more active. Without the merchants, I don't know how I'd have come here. It's a lot harder to trek all the way across the desert on foot by yourself than it is to stow away in a caravan-"
Night Jewel stopped herself, but too late. Way to go, girl. At this rate, you'll be confessing your whole history to the paladin soon enough. How are you going to explain this?
"...You remember Daniel's joke about sneaking into caravans, don't you?" It's kind of like that, only not a joke, she added internally.
Kelvin360
2013-12-19, 06:49 AM
"I personally enjoy my downtime, watch a few Hearthswarming Eve plays and pageants, attend a party or two, and indulge in a variety of festive snacks, hot cocoas, and coffees," Purple Prose observes aloofly.
His expression then goes flat. "And I can neither confirm or deny the holiday gift-giving tendencies of Her Majesty's Shadowbolts," he deadpans, before giving a small, playful wink.
He opts to stay out of the small conflict between Blueshield and the other ponies. Not really his business or place to get involved there...
"Well now you've gone and piqued my curiosity. What's everypony think; five makes a party for the bar scene?"
"It's a lil' hard to get llamas up here. Not even parts of 'em. It's not a llama, at any rate. I spose it's got a part with a knife-like quality, though..."
"Hey Brains, got any llamas in your posse?"
"Mm, no. I've seen one or two, but they don't stay around for very long. Though I think a conversation with one would be fascinating."
"What would they even have to talk about? Different ways to chew grass?"
"No, no - cows have much more to say on that subject."
"There are multiple theses on the subject."
"I'm not sure what bugs me more. That theses about that are a thing or that you two would probably read them."
"Apparently you can burn up to five times the calories if you work certain muscles during the process."
"I've heard it was more like seven. Of course, it wasn't from a really reliable source..."
"Eight is theoretically possible, but the physical dynamics get sketchier the closer you draw to an order of magnitude."
"Okay. I'm vetoing this conversation right now."
Blades grinned. "Great! Just workin' 'n tryin' to think all the time is a lil' tirin' sometimes. I'll see what I've got for ya in a bit, then. I think I've got a couple of adventure books by Long Story that I haven't read in a while."
"Mm, really? I haven't had the pleasure, but I've read astounding reviews."
"Woah woah woah. Woah. Woah. Wait. There are reviews on books? As in, literally reading about reading a book? Are there reviews of reviews? How deep does it go?"
"Any commentary on original subject matter composed by another individual is technically a review. Therefore, a review of a review of a review of a review is quite common during, for examples, debates on debates, which-"
Starbeam finds herself suddenly unable to speak thanks to the cookie that now inhabits her mouth. "Not a serious question. Let the moment pass."
"...I suppose your intentions were acceptable, although your methods were a little lacking. I suggest an alternative method for acquiring familiarity. Normal introductions should not involve the complete dissection of another pony's personal matters."
"Natural progress, huh?" This time, her smile is the normal kind. "I can do that."
"Naturally! The trade routes between here and there are less active than they once were due to some foals trying to earn banditry cutie marks by pillaging them, but they're becoming more active. Without the merchants, I don't know how I'd have come here. It's a lot harder to trek all the way across the desert on foot by yourself than it is to stow away in a caravan-"
Night Jewel stopped herself, but too late. Way to go, girl. At this rate, you'll be confessing your whole history to the paladin soon enough. How are you going to explain this?
"...You remember Daniel's joke about sneaking into caravans, don't you?" It's kind of like that, only not a joke, she added internally.
"Huh?" Taylor shakes his head at her final question. "Sorry, you lost me back at 'banditry cutie marks'. Is...that a recent thing?"
Silver smirks. "Hmm. I can already tell the next thing out of your mouth is going to involve the phrase 'back in my day...'."
Taylor puts a hoof on his chest in mock protest. "Hey, I'm old. Cut me some slack."
"Unfortunately for you, dear, I'm old, too." She chuckles and gives him a quick nuzzle.
"Is the state of the roads a reflection on the political makeup of the general area?" Dawnstrider asks interestedly. "Or is it simply a matter of international borders lacking certain protections?"
Lone Star shrugged as he went to make hot chocolate. I've got voices in my head. Nopony's perfect.
Es had grabbed a book entitled Whole Ruins by White Swan. From her brief glances, it seemed a sci-fi action story about three armies clashing for control of a powerful artifact. The perspective shifted between the three factions - a race of various anthromorphic animals with powerful technology, a hive-minded race of psychics, and a single squad of super soldiers.
... Apparently this was not one of the 'wine bottles' Lone Star was talking about.
Quite so. But the title piqued Esmeralda enough that she took the book down and started reading the first chapter. :smalltongue:
"Not that kind of pageant Shores, two different things....but...you'll only have to wear a dress if you really want to," She grinned.
"Anyways, the Civic Center is sorta the host, gonna be in the town park, other venues were too pricey or something."
"I assume all the logistics would be handled by the town, instead by the crew?" Silverpine asked.
[/SIZE]
"Oh Icy..." He chuckled at her response about not knowing it was Hearthswarming. Another light nuzzle for his nerdy lady. "Anyways...I was thinking....something a little winter wonderland.....Oh!.....maybe we can get some festive decorations for your...spartan house......and then winter wonderland date stuffs." He looked around the livingroom and took the moment to also take a sip from his cocoa on the coffee table.
Spartan? Yes. That would still describe her house at this particular moment. Aside from the normal furniture, there's not so much as a single piece of decoration, decorative items or any sort of momento that adorned the room. Efficiency at its best. Icy never really did see the need for such superfluous items, preferring instead to save her bits for functional goods.
"Winter... wonderland date stuff?" Icy repeated doubtfully, tilting her head. "Are you absolutely sure this is necessary, Fox?"
"...I suppose your intentions were acceptable, although your methods were a little lacking. I suggest an alternative method for acquiring familiarity. Normal introductions should not involve the complete dissection of another pony's personal matters."
Blueshield calmed down again. "Better. Thank you." She gave a nod. "Your respect is appreciated. Now, where would your bar happen to be?"
"Natural progress, huh?" This time, her smile is the normal kind. "I can do that."
"The bar's just around the corner, three blocks down. Though... uh... we should probably get back on patrol before Captain rounds us up for dereliction of duty." The wince on Tyrol's face probably told the rest how seriously the Captain took the matter. "Maybe in an hour time?"
"Is the batpony coming too?"
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "No idea. Why don't you ask him, smarty pants?"
"... so you coming too?" One smooth talker, Lemongrass was.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-19, 11:19 AM
"... No, Mr Shores. I'm sure we don't need to repeat that particular experience," Silverpine said with a deadpan.
"Not that kind of pageant Shores, two different things....but...you'll only have to wear a dress if you really want to," She grinned.
"Anyways, the Civic Center is sorta the host, gonna be in the town park, other venues were too pricey or something."
"Oh thank Luna," Sandy breathed a sigh of relief. "I can only take so much in th' line of duty..." He made a mental note to not drink anything offered by the Cap'n, just in case.
"I assume all the logistics would be handled by the town, instead by the crew?" Silverpine asked.
"An' when do we start?" Sandy chimed in eagerly.
Lycan 01
2013-12-19, 04:10 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"Well now you've gone and piqued my curiosity. What's everypony think; five makes a party for the bar scene?"
"The bar's just around the corner, three blocks down. Though... uh... we should probably get back on patrol before Captain rounds us up for dereliction of duty." The wince on Tyrol's face probably told the rest how seriously the Captain took the matter. "Maybe in an hour time?"
"Is the batpony coming too?"
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "No idea. Why don't you ask him, smarty pants?"
"... so you coming too?" One smooth talker, Lemongrass was.
Purple Prose shrugs, flashing a lazy smirk. "Eh, sure, I'll tag along. I'm curious to see this bar, now that you lot have been talkin' about it so much."
Benson
2013-12-19, 09:56 PM
"Oh thank Luna," Sandy breathed a sigh of relief. "I can only take so much in th' line of duty..." He made a mental note to not drink anything offered by the Cap'n, just in case.
"An' when do we start?" Sandy chimed in eagerly.
"I assume all the logistics would be handled by the town, instead by the crew?" Silverpine asked.
"We start or rather we're to head over to the Civic Center as soon as possible, and yes, Silverpine, that stuff will be handled by the town, or rather the producers, directors...them. We get the easy-er-ish tasks."
Spartan? Yes. That would still describe her house at this particular moment. Aside from the normal furniture, there's not so much as a single piece of decoration, decorative items or any sort of momento that adorned the room. Efficiency at its best. Icy never really did see the need for such superfluous items, preferring instead to save her bits for functional goods.
"Winter... wonderland date stuff?" Icy repeated doubtfully, tilting her head. "Are you absolutely sure this is necessary, Fox?"
Fox looked at her with disbelief. "...Well yea...how could you suggest otherwise?...Icy....babe...." He shook his head and then placed his hoof against his forehead and woefully sighed.
"You hate Hearthswarming...sniffle.." He melodramatically said and threw himself backwards on the couch. He was being silly, but he was going to put his acting chops into hammying it up, his cutie mark wasn't what it was for no reason.
"Oh my woes....the love of my life hates my favorite holiday...clearly she does by her words...oh bloo...bloo...."
HalfTangible
2013-12-19, 10:06 PM
Quite so. But the title piqued Esmeralda enough that she took the book down and started reading the first chapter. :smalltongue:
The first chapter was from the point of the small squad of super soldiers. They were already entrenched as the psions and animal-people came in...
---
Lone Star came back with hot chocolate, smirking a bit that Es was apparently engrossed in the thing she'd been belittling moments ago.
Until he saw the title.
I'd facehoof if i had the hoof.
"We start or rather we're to head over to the Civic Center as soon as possible, and yes, Silverpine, that stuff will be handled by the town, or rather the producers, directors...them. We get the easy-er-ish tasks."
Silverpine raised an eyebrow. "You mean the most publicly visible task, yes?" he says with a faint smile. "Have they decided what exactly they have planned for the big day? It'll be good if we could get in a rehearsal or two before hoof."
Fox looked at her with disbelief. "...Well yea...how could you suggest otherwise?...Icy....babe...." He shook his head and then placed his hoof against his forehead and woefully sighed.
"You hate Hearthswarming...sniffle.." He melodramatically said and threw himself backwards on the couch. He was being silly, but he was going to put his acting chops into hammying it up, his cutie mark wasn't what it was for no reason.
"Oh my woes....the love of my life hates my favorite holiday...clearly she does by her words...oh bloo...bloo...."
Icy was at a loss for words. She wasn't sure if she had offended Fox truly, or this was part of his hammy mock-reactions. "Oh... ummm... I'm sorry, dear. Umm... Hearth's Warming... doesn't quite resonate with me as it should..." she stammered, her ears flattening against her head.
The first chapter was from the point of the small squad of super soldiers. They were already entrenched as the psions and animal-people came in...
---
Lone Star came back with hot chocolate, smirking a bit that Es was apparently engrossed in the thing she'd been belittling moments ago.
Until he saw the title.
I'd facehoof if i had the hoof.
Just the type of trashy pulp sci-fi Esmeralda enjoyed! The ice mage almost didn't notice Lone Star walking in with their drinks. She looked up with a smile. "Oh! You're back. I didn't know you stock such books. A far cry from the boring magic textbooks Icy had in volumes at home." She held up the book for Lone Star to see.
HalfTangible
2013-12-20, 02:18 AM
Just the type of trashy pulp sci-fi Esmeralda enjoyed! The ice mage almost didn't notice Lone Star walking in with their drinks. She looked up with a smile. "Oh! You're back. I didn't know you stock such books. A far cry from the boring magic textbooks Icy had in volumes at home." She held up the book for Lone Star to see.
He looked over the book, not bothering to mention he'd read it twice. Not exactly the fine wine I was talking about, but yeah. Lone Star smiled as he set their drinks down. Yeah, fiction is a lot more fun than textbooks. White Swan's got a real talent for this pulp-sci-fi stuff, especially crossovers.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-20, 04:59 AM
"The bar's just around the corner, three blocks down. Though... uh... we should probably get back on patrol before Captain rounds us up for dereliction of duty." The wince on Tyrol's face probably told the rest how seriously the Captain took the matter. "Maybe in an hour time?"
"Is the batpony coming too?"
Tyrol rolled his eyes. "No idea. Why don't you ask him, smarty pants?"
"... so you coming too?" One smooth talker, Lemongrass was.
"Well now you've gone and piqued my curiosity. What's everypony think; five makes a party for the bar scene?"
Purple Prose shrugs, flashing a lazy smirk. "Eh, sure, I'll tag along. I'm curious to see this bar, now that you lot have been talkin' about it so much."
Blueshield nodded to the guards. "It is good to see you take some things seriously, at any rate. I shall see you when the time comes, then."
She then noticed Purple Prose. "Ah, yes. I know you. You are welcome to accompany me if you so desire, so long as you behave properly. Given your status and my personal knowledge, I expect you to."
"Natural progress, huh?" This time, her smile is the normal kind. "I can do that."
"Good. Keep it unintrusive."
She turned away then. "I shall continue my watch now. Follow if you wish."
"Hey Brains, got any llamas in your posse?"
"Mm, no. I've seen one or two, but they don't stay around for very long. Though I think a conversation with one would be fascinating."
"What would they even have to talk about? Different ways to chew grass?"
"No, no - cows have much more to say on that subject."
"There are multiple theses on the subject."
"I'm not sure what bugs me more. That theses about that are a thing or that you two would probably read them."
"Apparently you can burn up to five times the calories if you work certain muscles during the process."
"I've heard it was more like seven. Of course, it wasn't from a really reliable source..."
"Eight is theoretically possible, but the physical dynamics get sketchier the closer you draw to an order of magnitude."
"Okay. I'm vetoing this conversation right now."
Blades started to look rather overwhelmed.
"Mm, really? I haven't had the pleasure, but I've read astounding reviews."
"Woah woah woah. Woah. Woah. Wait. There are reviews on books? As in, literally reading about reading a book? Are there reviews of reviews? How deep does it go?"
"Any commentary on original subject matter composed by another individual is technically a review. Therefore, a review of a review of a review of a review is quite common during, for examples, debates on debates, which-"
Starbeam finds herself suddenly unable to speak thanks to the cookie that now inhabits her mouth. "Not a serious question. Let the moment pass."
"Ah, thanks, Stellar. That was gettin' me dizzy."
Blades nodded. "Well, it's good to know what ya're readin' 'fore ya read it. I remember one time I found this book which I thought was 'bout immortals, but... Eh, never mind! Let's just find a good book."
With that, Blades headed into the back of the shop, remained there for a while, and finally came out with a rectangular package in wrapping paper. "Here ya go! Hope ya like it! It's a bit magic-heavy, but still a fun story!"
"Huh?" Taylor shakes his head at her final question. "Sorry, you lost me back at 'banditry cutie marks'. Is...that a recent thing?"
Silver smirks. "Hmm. I can already tell the next thing out of your mouth is going to involve the phrase 'back in my day...'."
Taylor puts a hoof on his chest in mock protest. "Hey, I'm old. Cut me some slack."
"Unfortunately for you, dear, I'm old, too." She chuckles and gives him a quick nuzzle.
"Is the state of the roads a reflection on the political makeup of the general area?" Dawnstrider asks interestedly. "Or is it simply a matter of international borders lacking certain protections?"
Night Jewel laughed. "Oh, it was many years ago, back when the Knights weren't exactly competent and several villages on your side of the border trained their foals from a ridiculously young age to fight." She shook her head. "It was kind of silly, really. I guess ponies here didn't really see it as noteworthy.
"Anyway, what happened was one unicorn found her talent by plundering wagons, and that inspired others who lived nearby to do the same. The raids went on for months. Eventually, most of the troublemakers were caught and arrested, most of them not even getting their cutie marks in the process, but the unicorn who started it all vanished into the Blue Mountains. It's still unknown what became of her after that.
"Times have changed now. Training from birth in combat arts is discouraged, and the leadership of the Knights has become more organized. Still, trade ceased completely for a while, and while it's been getting stronger since then, there are still fewer caravans to your lands then in the years before, and they're all heavily protected. Some ponies have long memories."
Well, the subject's off you for now, so that's good. But don't blame me if you get your mind adjusted, okay?
Benson
2013-12-20, 07:56 AM
Icy was at a loss for words. She wasn't sure if she had offended Fox truly, or this was part of his hammy mock-reactions. "Oh... ummm... I'm sorry, dear. Umm... Hearth's Warming... doesn't quite resonate with me as it should..." she stammered, her ears flattening against her head.
This prompted a real frown as he sat up and moved his hoof to cup her cheek. "Maybe...it didn't resonate with you...because you didn't have anyone to spend it with before?" He gave her another smooch. "But that doesn't have to be the case anymore." He smiled.
This prompted a real frown as he sat up and moved his hoof to cup her cheek. "Maybe...it didn't resonate with you...because you didn't have anyone to spend it with before?" He gave her another smooch. "But that doesn't have to be the case anymore." He smiled.
The small gesture prompted another shy smile from Icy. "I... suppose. I have gotten used to spending time alone that... I just didn't think of partaking in festivities..." A flicker of sadness appeared in her eyes, before disappearing again. "Thank you, Fox."
He looked over the book, not bothering to mention he'd read it twice. Not exactly the fine wine I was talking about, but yeah. Lone Star smiled as he set their drinks down. Yeah, fiction is a lot more fun than textbooks. White Swan's got a real talent for this pulp-sci-fi stuff, especially crossovers.
"Oho? You sound like a fan," Esmeralda said with a teasing smile. She sauntered over to Lone Star's side with the book and plopped down beside him. Then with one hoof idly teasing his good wing, she picked up one of the mugs and sipped. "Mmm~ Just what I needed. So, what kind of fine wine are you talking about then?"
Blueshield nodded to the guards. "It is good to see you take some things seriously, at any rate. I shall see you when the time comes, then."
She then noticed Purple Prose. "Ah, yes. I know you. You are welcome to accompany me if you so desire, so long as you behave properly. Given your status and my personal knowledge, I expect you to."
"Good. Keep it unintrusive."
She turned away then. "I shall continue my watch now. Follow if you wish."
Tyrol snapped off a brief salute, then hustled Lemongrass along. The latter was still grumbling mildly about having to pay for drinks and how he planned to get revenge. :smalltongue: The pair soon disappeared into the bustling streets.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-20, 10:23 AM
"We start or rather we're to head over to the Civic Center as soon as possible, and yes, Silverpine, that stuff will be handled by the town, or rather the producers, directors...them. We get the easy-er-ish tasks."
"Well, what're we waitin' for?" Sandy threw a neat and tidy salute, ear-flaps flapping heroically in the chill breeze. "Sargent Shores, ready t'deploy t'play duty, ma'am Cap'n ma'am!"
HalfTangible
2013-12-20, 11:34 AM
"Oho? You sound like a fan," Esmeralda said with a teasing smile. She sauntered over to Lone Star's side with the book and plopped down beside him. Then with one hoof idly teasing his good wing, she picked up one of the mugs and sipped. "Mmm~ Just what I needed. So, what kind of fine wine are you talking about then?"
More recently, Nightfall. Grid. Fallen Alicorns. The Calamity, maybe? For older classics there's White Whale, a Warming Carol, Whimsy and Trap, Glitter Ain't Gold. He shrugged, idly running his hoof along her neck.
Kelvin360
2013-12-20, 04:11 PM
"Ah, thanks, Stellar. That was gettin' me dizzy."
Blades nodded. "Well, it's good to know what ya're readin' 'fore ya read it. I remember one time I found this book which I thought was 'bout immortals, but... Eh, never mind! Let's just find a good book."
With that, Blades headed into the back of the shop, remained there for a while, and finally came out with a rectangular package in wrapping paper. "Here ya go! Hope ya like it! It's a bit magic-heavy, but still a fun story!"
"Thank you, I'm certain I'll enjoy it." She tucks the package under her cloak, which in this case gives the illusion of it disappearing. "I'll open it later today when everypony else does; I'm something of a traditionalist that way."
"That actually makes you exactly a traditionalist. And a conformist, unless you were doing it before it was cool."
"Conformity isn't a bad thing - just ask ants."
"You mean the mindless army of hunter/killer scavengers that tend to decimate anything in their path?"
"Yes, exactly."
"Admittedly, that doesn't sound all bad..."
"Will the four of you be exchanging gifts under the tree in the town square later tonight?"
Night Jewel laughed. "Oh, it was many years ago, back when the Knights weren't exactly competent and several villages on your side of the border trained their foals from a ridiculously young age to fight." She shook her head. "It was kind of silly, really. I guess ponies here didn't really see it as noteworthy.
"Anyway, what happened was one unicorn found her talent by plundering wagons, and that inspired others who lived nearby to do the same. The raids went on for months. Eventually, most of the troublemakers were caught and arrested, most of them not even getting their cutie marks in the process, but the unicorn who started it all vanished into the Blue Mountains. It's still unknown what became of her after that.
"Times have changed now. Training from birth in combat arts is discouraged, and the leadership of the Knights has become more organized. Still, trade ceased completely for a while, and while it's been getting stronger since then, there are still fewer caravans to your lands then in the years before, and they're all heavily protected. Some ponies have long memories."
Truth be told, I don't know much about the Knights. Hey Dawn, are they an Order?"
"I do not think the main collection is, but they could easily sanction one."
"I imagine they cracked down on more than just border intrusions. Was there a lot of resistance to their other policies?"
Benson
2013-12-20, 05:22 PM
The small gesture prompted another shy smile from Icy. "I... suppose. I have gotten used to spending time alone that... I just didn't think of partaking in festivities..." A flicker of sadness appeared in her eyes, before disappearing again. "Thank you, Fox."
"You're welcomed." He looked her in the eyes and broadened his smile and then moved in to nuzzle her cheek with his. He then pulled back and nodded his head. "Alright then...how about....we finish our drinks and then you go get your pretty self ready and then we can go out?" He was quite glad he was able to convince her on this....he had a number of things planned and reserved that he wouldn't have gotten refunded for had she decided to not go. His inner Fox Trot sweat dropped in relief. (:smalltongue:)
=============
Silverpine raised an eyebrow. "You mean the most publicly visible task, yes?" he says with a faint smile. "Have they decided what exactly they have planned for the big day? It'll be good if we could get in a rehearsal or two before hoof."
"Oh...we're probably not going to play any big roles...if that's what yer thinking....hahah...that wouldn't make sense, though, I will admit, I would probably play a fantastic Chancellor Puddinghead, and you my Smart Cookie." She winked. "You'll probably just be part of small crowd scenes, play a starving earth pony farmer hahah..ahem."
"Well, what're we waitin' for?" Sandy threw a neat and tidy salute, ear-flaps flapping heroically in the chill breeze. "Sargent Shores, ready t'deploy t'play duty, ma'am Cap'n ma'am!"
Gearstride smiled at him and returned the salute. "At ease Sergent Shores, but yes, we should head off now." She abruptly turned about face, somehow with her sack returned to her as she marched off.
More recently, Nightfall. Grid. Fallen Alicorns. The Calamity, maybe? For older classics there's White Whale, a Warming Carol, Whimsy and Trap, Glitter Ain't Gold. He shrugged, idly running his hoof along her neck.
Esmeralda sighed, and laid her head against Lone Star's shoulders, taking another sip from her hot chocolate. "They all sound lovely... Hmm, do you think there's any you think would suit a Hearth's Warming holiday mood?"
"You're welcomed." He looked her in the eyes and broadened his smile and then moved in to nuzzle her cheek with his. He then pulled back and nodded his head. "Alright then...how about....we finish our drinks and then you go get your pretty self ready and then we can go out?" He was quite glad he was able to convince her on this....he had a number of things planned and reserved that he wouldn't have gotten refunded for had she decided to not go. His inner Fox Trot sweat dropped in relief. (:smalltongue:)
Icy chuckled, her eyes now twinkling with mirth. "Very well, Fox. Allow me a few minutes to get myself presentable. Hardly fitting for a mare like me to go out like this hm?" she said with a gentle toss of her mane. She sipped her tea, then laid down her half-finished drink and sashayed towards the stairwell leading to her bedroom.
Soon enough, Icy reappeared in her winterwear, a matching set of snow-white parka and hoofshods.
"Oh...we're probably not going to play any big roles...if that's what yer thinking....hahah...that wouldn't make sense, though, I will admit, I would probably play a fantastic Chancellor Puddinghead, and you my Smart Cookie." She winked. "You'll probably just be part of small crowd scenes, play a starving earth pony farmer hahah..ahem."
Gearstride smiled at him and returned the salute. "At ease Sergent Shores, but yes, we should head off now." She abruptly turned about face, somehow with her sack returned to her as she marched off.
"Aha. That sounds more reasonable," Silverpine said, as he trotted off after Gear. :smalltongue:
HalfTangible
2013-12-21, 12:43 AM
Esmeralda sighed, and laid her head against Lone Star's shoulders, taking another sip from her hot chocolate. "They all sound lovely... Hmm, do you think there's any you think would suit a Hearth's Warming holiday mood?"
He smiled and petted her mane. Could you hoof me that red one right there? A Warming Carol.* Classic.
---
*A Christmas Carol. In case that wasn't as laughably obvious as I thought it was.
He smiled and petted her mane. Could you hoof me that red one right there? A Warming Carol.* Classic.
---
*A Christmas Carol. In case that wasn't as laughably obvious as I thought it was.
(I had to do a double take first, so there's that. :smalltongue: )
Esmeralda picked out the red book and floated it over to Lone Star, taking a curious look at the cover. "A Warming Carol, eh? Sounds like a song."
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-21, 02:05 AM
"Thank you, I'm certain I'll enjoy it." She tucks the package under her cloak, which in this case gives the illusion of it disappearing. "I'll open it later today when everypony else does; I'm something of a traditionalist that way."
"That actually makes you exactly a traditionalist. And a conformist, unless you were doing it before it was cool."
"Conformity isn't a bad thing - just ask ants."
"You mean the mindless army of hunter/killer scavengers that tend to decimate anything in their path?"
"Yes, exactly."
"Admittedly, that doesn't sound all bad..."
"Will the four of you be exchanging gifts under the tree in the town square later tonight?"
"Well, it's not like ya should give up the fun traditions! If they were borin', that might be a problem, but I like surprises!" Blades grinned. "Of course I'll be doin' it, if I can get ya to join in."
Truth be told, I don't know much about the Knights. Hey Dawn, are they an Order?"
"I do not think the main collection is, but they could easily sanction one."
"I imagine they cracked down on more than just border intrusions. Was there a lot of resistance to their other policies?"
"Well, they got more aggressive about preventing crime. They also were more watchful of young ponies. It... wasn't all taken well, but most ponies didn't object." Of course, their competence made more trouble for me, but at least violence went down.
Night Jewel put a hoof to her chin and thought a bit. "What exactly do you mean by 'order', in this case?"
HalfTangible
2013-12-21, 02:32 AM
(I had to do a double take first, so there's that. :smalltongue: )
Esmeralda picked out the red book and floated it over to Lone Star, taking a curious look at the cover. "A Warming Carol, eh? Sounds like a song."
He opened the book, smiling. A bit, yeah. 's a character piece about an old banker who is a monumental dirtbag.
Kelvin360
2013-12-21, 04:00 AM
"Well, it's not like ya should give up the fun traditions! If they were borin', that might be a problem, but I like surprises!" Blades grinned. "Of course I'll be doin' it, if I can get ya to join in."
"Eh, sure, why not. We've got this thing planned anyway."
"What thing?"
"We decided an evening fireworks display would be festive."
"Also I really need to blow something up. You can join in too, Boss; didn't we talk about 'works one time?"
"Well, they got more aggressive about preventing crime. They also were more watchful of young ponies. It... wasn't all taken well, but most ponies didn't object." Of course, their competence made more trouble for me, but at least violence went down.
Night Jewel put a hoof to her chin and thought a bit. "What exactly do you mean by 'order', in this case?"
"In this context, we refer to an order of paladins akin to the Sun Spirit or Fallen Star." Dawnstrider explains.
Silver mulls this over, turning to her husband. "Sun Spirit...there's a name I haven't heard in a long time. Taylor, weren't you...?"
"In an Order?" Taylor shakes his head. "Nah. I thought about it at one point, and they're probably still waiting for me to tell them my official decision, but...well, honestly, if I'm going to help ponies, I'd rather not be bound to a Code. I don't begrudge those who do at all, it's a matter of temperament. I'm just not the type."
An ironic smile plays upon Silver's features briefly. "That sounds familiar..."
Dawnstrider, however, seems more than a little surprised by this news. "You considered this path at one point? You...never mentioned it." He even sounds slightly betrayed.
Taylor shrugs. "I didn't want to steal your thunder. Early on, you seemed so...fulfilled by The Code. Still do. But knowing that I turned it down might have given you doubts simply because it was me, and well, I wanted it to be your choice, not based on my past."
Dawnstrider nods slowly. "I can understand, I think. Your suspicions have merit, given what I know about myself." He glances down and double-takes at seeing Night Jewel still present. A small blush creeps up his face, past the tinge already present due to the chill. "But I think our choice of topic has turned to the exclusionary. Night Jewel, you expressed interest in Paladinhood previously, correct? I do not believe we have had the opportunity to speak in-depth about the subject."
Benson
2013-12-21, 09:06 AM
Icy chuckled, her eyes now twinkling with mirth. "Very well, Fox. Allow me a few minutes to get myself presentable. Hardly fitting for a mare like me to go out like this hm?" she said with a gentle toss of her mane. She sipped her tea, then laid down her half-finished drink and sashayed towards the stairwell leading to her bedroom.
Soon enough, Icy reappeared in her winterwear, a matching set of snow-white parka and hoofshods.
Fox had finished his cocoa by the time Icy returned. His gaze fell upon her, his smile broadening. "You look so beautiful and elegant. Oh my ice queen...how I am not worthy of your presence that I ask you make an exception this one time." He said hammily and playfully bowed.
Lycan 01
2013-12-21, 09:35 AM
[Clouds Over Bridle Shores]
"Well now you've gone and piqued my curiosity. What's everypony think; five makes a party for the bar scene?"
Blueshield nodded to the guards. "It is good to see you take some things seriously, at any rate. I shall see you when the time comes, then."
She then noticed Purple Prose. "Ah, yes. I know you. You are welcome to accompany me if you so desire, so long as you behave properly. Given your status and my personal knowledge, I expect you to."
She turned away then. "I shall continue my watch now. Follow if you wish."
Prose smiles cheekily at the bar invitation. "Yeah sure I'll tag along. Sounds like fun, and I'm curious to see what coffees they have."
When he's addressed by Blueshield, the batpony flashes a crooked, fang-revealing grin, a mischievous glint in his amber, snake-iris eye. "Behave properly? Madame, you clearly know nothing about me. Why, I-"
He slumps back a bit, hanging lazily in the air. "Am a lazy son of a mule," he smirks nonchalantly. "Seriously, I'm not one for causing trouble. Anyone who says otherwise is either an idiot, or one of those frumpy nobles from Canterlot who didn't like me too much," he says, narrowing his eye as his voice takes on a slightly bitter tone, despite his continued smirking.
The batpony then hovers over to plop down on a cloud near Blueshield. "Anyway, yeah sure, I'll tag along for the watch. Where all do you have left to lookie-loo at?"
He opened the book, smiling. A bit, yeah. 's a character piece about an old banker who is a monumental dirtbag.
(Cue montage? :smalltongue: )
And thus a saccharine montage of Lone Star and Es ensued, the ice mare oooohs and aaaahs at the appropriate moments of the story as they read it together. Somehow, Esmeralda managed to inch closer and cuddle Lone Star tightly as the day dragged on. :smallwink:
Fox had finished his cocoa by the time Icy returned. His gaze fell upon her, his smile broadening. "You look so beautiful and elegant. Oh my ice queen...how I am not worthy of your presence that I ask you make an exception this one time." He said hammily and playfully bowed.
Icy giggled, holding a hoof to her lips in mock contemplation. "Well. This queen might allow you a brief stay in order to gaze upon her beauty so that you may appreciate it better."
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-21, 10:08 AM
Gearstride smiled at him and returned the salute. "At ease Sergent Shores, but yes, we should head off now." She abruptly turned about face, somehow with her sack returned to her as she marched off.
Sandy marched in step behind her, chatting excitedly with Silverpine over their play prospects.
(Hmm. Should we skip ahead to them in costume, or some other point?)
HalfTangible
2013-12-21, 04:39 PM
(Cue montage? :smalltongue: )
And thus a saccharine montage of Lone Star and Es ensued, the ice mare oooohs and aaaahs at the appropriate moments of the story as they read it together. Somehow, Esmeralda managed to inch closer and cuddle Lone Star tightly as the day dragged on. :smallwink:
"-and Luna blessus everyone." Lone Star finished, shutting the book and returning the cuddles, patting her flank. Well? He kissed her neck.
MCerberus
2013-12-22, 12:28 AM
Streets
With Tyrol and Lemongrass running around town, they may run into Staccata. Walking around amidst everypony else being happy in the cold hasn't done much to lighten her mood. She's so visibly grump that one of the bands in town that provide backup music in case a song breaks out (this time of year is big on that sort of thing) is following her around waiting for some long monologue/song to happen.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-22, 03:51 AM
Prose smiles cheekily at the bar invitation. "Yeah sure I'll tag along. Sounds like fun, and I'm curious to see what coffees they have."
When he's addressed by Blueshield, the batpony flashes a crooked, fang-revealing grin, a mischievous glint in his amber, snake-iris eye. "Behave properly? Madame, you clearly know nothing about me. Why, I-"
He slumps back a bit, hanging lazily in the air. "Am a lazy son of a mule," he smirks nonchalantly. "Seriously, I'm not one for causing trouble. Anyone who says otherwise is either an idiot, or one of those frumpy nobles from Canterlot who didn't like me too much," he says, narrowing his eye as his voice takes on a slightly bitter tone, despite his continued smirking.
The batpony then hovers over to plop down on a cloud near Blueshield. "Anyway, yeah sure, I'll tag along for the watch. Where all do you have left to lookie-loo at?"
"It does not seem significantly probable to me that you are the offspring of a generally-sterile hybrid creature, nor do I suspect that any such creatures would be pleased to hear such usage of them in a metaphorical statement. However, I do comprehend that you do not intend to be actively troublesome. The only issue to avoid of accidental, passive misconduct."
Blueshield seemed unamused by the overly informal inquiry as to her current activity. In addition, her way of talking seemed to be infecting the narration. "I have only begun my observations. I intend to examine the entirety of the region. No potential hazards shall escape my gaze."
"Eh, sure, why not. We've got this thing planned anyway."
"What thing?"
"We decided an evening fireworks display would be festive."
"Also I really need to blow something up. You can join in too, Boss; didn't we talk about 'works one time?"
Blades laughed. "Brilliant! Now that's something worth seein'! Get a lil' action in the celebrations! I reckon Flare'd like that, too - she seems like a showy type."
[Meanwhile]
"Ciona has noticed... something interesting."
"Oui? What ees eet, my lady?"
"The mortals are acting unusual. She does not know what they are doing. They are doing... something with lights and other decorations."
"Oh! My lady, zey are seemply doing ze Hearz Warming Eve celebrations."
"She is most interested! Perhaps Precious could investigate for her? She will watch through her and see how they are."
"As you weesh, my lady. I weel geet ready immediately."
[Wait, No, Wrong Scene. Let's Try This Again]
Flare roamed about the town, looking for an adequate gift for the ponies she had been lodging with.
"Candy? But they have enough already. Gemstones? But they are already have as much wealth as they need. A large castle near the town? No, the guards would object... What could I get for them?"
"In this context, we refer to an order of paladins akin to the Sun Spirit or Fallen Star." Dawnstrider explains.
"Oh! Well, not exactly. While their cause is similar, they don't use paladin magic or anything. They're more like glorified law enforcement in some ways."
Silver mulls this over, turning to her husband. "Sun Spirit...there's a name I haven't heard in a long time. Taylor, weren't you...?"
"In an Order?" Taylor shakes his head. "Nah. I thought about it at one point, and they're probably still waiting for me to tell them my official decision, but...well, honestly, if I'm going to help ponies, I'd rather not be bound to a Code. I don't begrudge those who do at all, it's a matter of temperament. I'm just not the type."
An ironic smile plays upon Silver's features briefly. "That sounds familiar..."
Dawnstrider, however, seems more than a little surprised by this news. "You considered this path at one point? You...never mentioned it." He even sounds slightly betrayed.
Taylor shrugs. "I didn't want to steal your thunder. Early on, you seemed so...fulfilled by The Code. Still do. But knowing that I turned it down might have given you doubts simply because it was me, and well, I wanted it to be your choice, not based on my past."
Dawnstrider nods slowly. "I can understand, I think. Your suspicions have merit, given what I know about myself." He glances down and double-takes at seeing Night Jewel still present. A small blush creeps up his face, past the tinge already present due to the chill. "But I think our choice of topic has turned to the exclusionary. Night Jewel, you expressed interest in Paladinhood previously, correct? I do not believe we have had the opportunity to speak in-depth about the subject."
"Oh, that." Night Jewel began to get concerned again. "I wasn't entirely sure about that..."
Oh, Dark Mother, how am I going to do this? I can't very well tell them why I'm not up to it and expect to get off easily.
"...I don't know if I can devote myself to a code like that. There's so much I want to do, and I'm a little worried that a paladin's duties would interfere with it."
Good enough for now. I just hope he doesn't press further.
Kelvin360
2013-12-22, 04:29 AM
[Clouds Over Bridle Shores]
Prose smiles cheekily at the bar invitation. "Yeah sure I'll tag along. Sounds like fun, and I'm curious to see what coffees they have."
When he's addressed by Blueshield, the batpony flashes a crooked, fang-revealing grin, a mischievous glint in his amber, snake-iris eye. "Behave properly? Madame, you clearly know nothing about me. Why, I-"
He slumps back a bit, hanging lazily in the air. "Am a lazy son of a mule," he smirks nonchalantly. "Seriously, I'm not one for causing trouble. Anyone who says otherwise is either an idiot, or one of those frumpy nobles from Canterlot who didn't like me too much," he says, narrowing his eye as his voice takes on a slightly bitter tone, despite his continued smirking.
The batpony then hovers over to plop down on a cloud near Blueshield. "Anyway, yeah sure, I'll tag along for the watch. Where all do you have left to lookie-loo at?"
"It does not seem significantly probable to me that you are the offspring of a generally-sterile hybrid creature, nor do I suspect that any such creatures would be pleased to hear such usage of them in a metaphorical statement. However, I do comprehend that you do not intend to be actively troublesome. The only issue to avoid of accidental, passive misconduct."
Blueshield seemed unamused by the overly informal inquiry as to her current activity. In addition, her way of talking seemed to be infecting the narration. "I have only begun my observations. I intend to examine the entirety of the region. No potential hazards shall escape my gaze."
Snowstorm glances up at the cloud cover above them, already, it seems, making an attempt to determine how best to abet their task. "Are you going for a bird's-eye view or something closer to the ground?"
Blades laughed. "Brilliant! Now that's something worth seein'! Get a lil' action in the celebrations! I reckon Flare'd like that, too - she seems like a showy type."
Starbeam taps her chin with a hoof. "Hmm. I hadn't thought of that. But there are plenty of mineral combinations that can be, mm, shall we say volatile when put together the right way. I'm sure we can figure out a display from all of that."
Stellar inhales deeply and sighs. "I can smell the sulfur already."
"Oh! Well, not exactly. While their cause is similar, they don't use paladin magic or anything. They're more like glorified law enforcement in some ways."
Silver furrows her eyebrows. She appears...worried? "Glorified? How so?"
Taylor, of course, has different lines of query based purely in the realm of curiosity. "Would you say they're held to the same general standard?"
"Oh, that." Night Jewel began to get concerned again. "I wasn't entirely sure about that..."
Oh, Dark Mother, how am I going to do this? I can't very well tell them why I'm not up to it and expect to get off easily.
"...I don't know if I can devote myself to a code like that. There's so much I want to do, and I'm a little worried that a paladin's duties would interfere with it."
Good enough for now. I just hope he doesn't press further.
Dawnstrider nods. "I am impressed by your display of wisdom. It is a matter that requires no small amount of deliberation."
Taylor waves a hoof airily. "Not to mention that you have years and years to decide whether that's what you want to do with your life or not."
"Regardless of whether you feel it is your chosen path, feel free to inquire with the intent of forming an understanding, if you so desire." He seems a little like somepony fishing. Much like a scholar giving a lecture on their own book, it looks like he wants to sate a curiosity in somepony else, as opposed to getting to an actual point.
Taylor murmurs assent. "Mm. Ironically, for a system that's based on black and white morality, they're not as cut and dry as one might think." His comment is matter-of-fact, a bit of data passed off-hoofedly down a generation.
Silver gives Dawnstrider an aside glance and smiles. "Also, it gives Dawn a chance to express his undying love for Sword Saint."
"Mmph. I prefer 'healthy respect'." Would that be the cold weather again, or another blush?
Lycan 01
2013-12-22, 05:10 AM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose pulls another scroll of parchment and a writing quill out of his hoodie, and starts to scribble on the paper as he idle hovers along after Blueshield, lazily flapping his wings to propel his cloud forward and keep up with her. "Uh huh. I admire you dedication to duty and professionalism. But I gotta wonder, how often do you go on these patrols?" he casually inquires. "Do you always do your rounds on a regular basis, at around the same times, to keep a 'proper' pattern?"
Streets
With Tyrol and Lemongrass running around town, they may run into Staccata. Walking around amidst everypony else being happy in the cold hasn't done much to lighten her mood. She's so visibly grump that one of the bands in town that provide backup music in case a song breaks out (this time of year is big on that sort of thing) is following her around waiting for some long monologue/song to happen.
They did eventually run into her. Sort of. Well, more like Lemongrass did. Literally. The two somehow managed to butt heads into each other, sending the pegasus reeling back. "Owowowowow!"
Tyrol quickly stepped in to apologise. "Very sorry Miss... Staccata? Why are you here?" he said, blinking.
"-and Luna blessus everyone." Lone Star finished, shutting the book and returning the cuddles, patting her flank. Well? He kissed her neck.
Esmeralda looked thoughtful for a moment. "... I just found it curious the banker thought hoarding money was so fun. I mean, how does one leave their life alone like that? Oh, and something, something about spirits from the past, present and future. That was novel." Well, at least she didn't miss the message entirely? :smalltongue:
Sandy marched in step behind her, chatting excitedly with Silverpine over their play prospects.
(Hmm. Should we skip ahead to them in costume, or some other point?)
(I'm a little too tired to decide, so I'll leave it to you two to set the scene. :smalltongue: )
HalfTangible
2013-12-22, 12:50 PM
Esmeralda looked thoughtful for a moment. "... I just found it curious the banker thought hoarding money was so fun. I mean, how does one leave their life alone like that? Oh, and something, something about spirits from the past, present and future. That was novel." Well, at least she didn't miss the message entirely? :smalltongue:
He chuckled. Yeah... Lone Star decided not to point out she'd missed the point.
MCerberus
2013-12-22, 12:57 PM
They did eventually run into her. Sort of. Well, more like Lemongrass did. Literally. The two somehow managed to butt heads into each other, sending the pegasus reeling back. "Owowowowow!"
Tyrol quickly stepped in to apologise. "Very sorry Miss... Staccata? Why are you here?" he said, blinking.
Staccata definitely 'oof's as she's run into. The fact of the matter is she's not exactly paying the most attention to every single little detail like normal. She gives a short glare at Lemongrass before replying.
"I'm trying to make it through all this," she replies waving a hoof at a pair of ponies in a ball of violence fighting over the last "Cake Industries Super Sampler 4500" being sold at a stall. "Without going insane."
The mare doesn't seem very 'in' to the season.
He chuckled. Yeah... Lone Star decided not to point out she'd missed the point.
Esmeralda giggled, then nuzzling into Lone Star's neck. "Mmmmm, so what now...?" she asked, a hint of teasing promise in her voice.
Staccata definitely 'oof's as she's run into. The fact of the matter is she's not exactly paying the most attention to every single little detail like normal. She gives a short glare at Lemongrass before replying.
"I'm trying to make it through all this," she replies waving a hoof at a pair of ponies in a ball of violence fighting over the last "Cake Industries Super Sampler 4500" being sold at a stall. "Without going insane."
The mare doesn't seem very 'in' to the season.
"Huh. You don't like the crowds?" Tyrol asked, blinking. He might be a little too literal minded to get the hint. :smalltongue:
MCerberus
2013-12-22, 10:41 PM
"Huh. You don't like the crowds?" Tyrol asked, blinking. He might be a little too literal minded to get the hint. :smalltongue:
Staccata keeps a sourpuss grimace on after that remark. Meanwhile ponies around town are going crazy... er... than normal pony. Meanwhile, the band senses its moment and starts up. (A Hearth's Warming without needless music numbers doesn't seem right)
At least it isn't going to grate on the ears, Staccata is a trained and cutie-marked singer. Anypony around is always welcome to add in a verse or duet or back-and-forth during this, of course.
"It's a magical season, so everpony says.
When the nights are chilly and it snows on most days.
We laugh and celebrate and help all those in need."
Staccata slides over to the shopping ponies and takes hold of the object of their desire, calming them momentarily.
"And then... we throw it all away, to slake our endless greeeeeeeed."
The mare tosses it back at the ponies and they begin fighting again. There's going to be a lot of cutaways to areas that illustrate the lyrics, so Tyrol and Lemongrass better keep up.
"Ponies maul each other to save a coin or two.
They greet and wish you well, until they turn on you.
All of this money on lights but what the hay,
It's better than only seeing the sky's sickly tone of grey.
You see hidden misery just beneath your sight.
No wonder the season causes everyone to fight.
Every sin is present from wrath to gluttony.
And everypony's happy but me."
Benson
2013-12-23, 12:02 AM
Icy giggled, holding a hoof to her lips in mock contemplation. "Well. This queen might allow you a brief stay in order to gaze upon her beauty so that you may appreciate it better."
"Oh my gracious lady, I thank ye for thine gift of your presence. Now...if I may make a request....I would like to smooch the muzzle of my queen.." He smirked and bowed his head, glancing up at her.
As these shenanigans happened, there was a knock at Icy's door.
================================
That Park in the Middle of Town with small pony made lake
Twas a winter wonderland as the trio made that fifteen or so minute walk through to town. It was cold, so Gearstride stuck by Silverpine, playfully rubbing up against him once in a while if only to also get a rise out of her dear lieutenant.
There was a stage set up, constructed from scratch, a gathering of ponies around, most on stage with the painted sets in the back ground. There was one pony, a mare with a director's cap, yelling at one of the stage hands about something, something about blown fuses and the unicorn who was supposed to do the effects for the windigos had come down with a cold. The windigos were to be made out of actual snow!
Staccata keeps a sourpuss grimace on after that remark. Meanwhile ponies around town are going crazy... er... than normal pony. Meanwhile, the band senses its moment and starts up. (A Hearth's Warming without needless music numbers doesn't seem right)
At least it isn't going to grate on the ears, Staccata is a trained and cutie-marked singer. Anypony around is always welcome to add in a verse or duet or back-and-forth during this, of course.
"It's a magical season, so everpony says.
When the nights are chilly and it snows on most days.
We laugh and celebrate and help all those in need."
Staccata slides over to the shopping ponies and takes hold of the object of their desire, calming them momentarily.
"And then... we throw it all away, to slake our endless greeeeeeeed."
The mare tosses it back at the ponies and they begin fighting again. There's going to be a lot of cutaways to areas that illustrate the lyrics, so Tyrol and Lemongrass better keep up.
"Ponies maul each other to save a coin or two.
They greet and wish you well, until they turn on you.
All of this money on lights but what the hay,
It's better than only seeing the sky's sickly tone of grey.
You see hidden misery just beneath your sight.
No wonder the season causes everyone to fight.
Every sin is present from wrath to gluttony.
And everypony's happy but me."
(Oh boy, a song. My one weakness. I must answer this with one of my own! But I need time x.x )
"Oh my gracious lady, I thank ye for thine gift of your presence. Now...if I may make a request....I would like to smooch the muzzle of my queen.." He smirked and bowed his head, glancing up at her.
As these shenanigans happened, there was a knock at Icy's door.
Icy held out a white shod hoof to beckon Fox over. "Yes, I might just allow th—" The knock on the door interrupted her monologue before it had even begun. :smalltongue:
"Who is it?" Icy snapped, a little irritated.
That Park in the Middle of Town with small pony made lake
Twas a winter wonderland as the trio made that fifteen or so minute walk through to town. It was cold, so Gearstride stuck by Silverpine, playfully rubbing up against him once in a while if only to also get a rise out of her dear lieutenant.
There was a stage set up, constructed from scratch, a gathering of ponies around, most on stage with the painted sets in the back ground. There was one pony, a mare with a director's cap, yelling at one of the stage hands about something, something about blown fuses and the unicorn who was supposed to do the effects for the windigos had come down with a cold. The windigos were to be made out of actual snow!
That might explain why the lieutenant seemed hot and bothered by the time they reached the set, Silverpine frantically gesturing at Gearstride to stop teasing him!
When they reached the set, the lieutenant paused to take in the sights. Then he turned to Gear with a helpless expression. "Um... so who do we talk to?"
Benson
2013-12-23, 11:09 AM
Icy held out a white shod hoof to beckon Fox over. "Yes, I might just allow th—" The knock on the door interrupted her monologue before it had even begun. :smalltongue:
"Who is it?" Icy snapped, a little irritated.
The moment the question dripped out of her mouth, the door jiggled and then slammed opened as a stallion dressed up in a Santa Hooves suit grandly stepped in.
"Oh ho ho ho to the young couple!" Twas Balboa...dressed in mentioned suit, carrying a red sack over his back. Behind him stood Astrid who was scribbling down something on her note pad. She was dressed as an elven pony complete with a green jingling hat. She had a neutral expression on her face as she then stared at Icy and Fox.
Fox's jaw fell as he stared all agasp, his face turning red in sputtering anger.
"Hahah oh ho...Oh Foxy! My son...Happy Hearthswarming! Don't look so red, tis not a season for such things hahah oh ho ho!"
HalfTangible
2013-12-23, 11:20 AM
Esmeralda giggled, then nuzzling into Lone Star's neck. "Mmmmm, so what now...?" she asked, a hint of teasing promise in her voice.
I wonder~ He purred, petting the mare's mane.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-24, 12:33 AM
That Park in the Middle of Town with small pony made lake
Twas a winter wonderland as the trio made that fifteen or so minute walk through to town. It was cold, so Gearstride stuck by Silverpine, playfully rubbing up against him once in a while if only to also get a rise out of her dear lieutenant.
There was a stage set up, constructed from scratch, a gathering of ponies around, most on stage with the painted sets in the back ground. There was one pony, a mare with a director's cap, yelling at one of the stage hands about something, something about blown fuses and the unicorn who was supposed to do the effects for the windigos had come down with a cold. The windigos were to be made out of actual snow!
That might explain why the lieutenant seemed hot and bothered by the time they reached the set, Silverpine frantically gesturing at Gearstride to stop teasing him!
When they reached the set, the lieutenant paused to take in the sights. Then he turned to Gear with a helpless expression. "Um... so who do we talk to?"
Sandy, true to form, remained blissfully unaware of his dear friend's predicament.
"I'd wager it's that pony over there. Th' one givin' out all th' orders?" Sandy offered, pointing to the mare in the impressive-looking hat. "Y'sure th' cold ain't gettin' t'you, Silverpine? Your cheeks are lookin' awful red," he added with concern. "Maybe y'ought t'find someplace t'warm up once we get our parts?"
Sandy, ever the dutiful volunteer, trotted on ahead to the director and threw her a tidy salute. "Three more volunteers for your production, ma'am, courtesy of th' good ship Cirrus! Ready an' willin' t'help any way we can!"
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-24, 02:18 AM
Snowstorm glances up at the cloud cover above them, already, it seems, making an attempt to determine how best to abet their task. "Are you going for a bird's-eye view or something closer to the ground?"
"Aerial positioning allows greater visibility in all directions. One's area of vision from the ground is only half that from the air, and one should always be prepared for attacks from above. I know better than to think in only two dimensions."
Prose pulls another scroll of parchment and a writing quill out of his hoodie, and starts to scribble on the paper as he idle hovers along after Blueshield, lazily flapping his wings to propel his cloud forward and keep up with her. "Uh huh. I admire you dedication to duty and professionalism. But I gotta wonder, how often do you go on these patrols?" he casually inquires. "Do you always do your rounds on a regular basis, at around the same times, to keep a 'proper' pattern?"
"Usually once or twice a day. I prefer to do so in the mornings or evenings, or when I simply feel restless."
Starbeam taps her chin with a hoof. "Hmm. I hadn't thought of that. But there are plenty of mineral combinations that can be, mm, shall we say volatile when put together the right way. I'm sure we can figure out a display from all of that."
Stellar inhales deeply and sighs. "I can smell the sulfur already."
Blades thought for a bit. "Smell... Hey, girls! I just had a thought! What if ya put some spices or something into 'em? Then it'll be a blast 'n fill the air with a nice scent, too!"
Silver furrows her eyebrows. She appears...worried? "Glorified? How so?"
Taylor, of course, has different lines of query based purely in the realm of curiosity. "Would you say they're held to the same general standard?"
"They're supposed to be held to the same standard. In practice, they're pretty much called in to deal with particularly troublesome criminals and left to do whatever they want the rest of the time."
Dawnstrider nods. "I am impressed by your display of wisdom. It is a matter that requires no small amount of deliberation."
Taylor waves a hoof airily. "Not to mention that you have years and years to decide whether that's what you want to do with your life or not."
"Regardless of whether you feel it is your chosen path, feel free to inquire with the intent of forming an understanding, if you so desire." He seems a little like somepony fishing. Much like a scholar giving a lecture on their own book, it looks like he wants to sate a curiosity in somepony else, as opposed to getting to an actual point.
Taylor murmurs assent. "Mm. Ironically, for a system that's based on black and white morality, they're not as cut and dry as one might think." His comment is matter-of-fact, a bit of data passed off-hoofedly down a generation.
Silver gives Dawnstrider an aside glance and smiles. "Also, it gives Dawn a chance to express his undying love for Sword Saint."
"Mmph. I prefer 'healthy respect'." Would that be the cold weather again, or another blush?
"Well... I'll ask a little later. I'm interested in learning more, but I'd rather have a bit more privacy to discuss it." Night Jewel gave a meaningful glance to Dawnstrider.
"So, are we going to see the festivities now?"
Kelvin360
2013-12-24, 03:41 AM
"Aerial positioning allows greater visibility in all directions. One's area of vision from the ground is only half that from the air, and one should always be prepared for attacks from above. I know better than to think in only two dimensions."
"I was actually asking how high you planned on going, and where you wanted this cloud cover in relation to that."
Blades thought for a bit. "Smell... Hey, girls! I just had a thought! What if ya put some spices or something into 'em? Then it'll be a blast 'n fill the air with a nice scent, too!"
"My first instinct it to stick 'em full of pure capsaicin, but..."
"But that might hurt the crowd."
"Right, that too."
"Well, they used to call certain types of fireworks Army Candles. Why not make actual candles?"
"The phrase 'volatile candle wax' just jumped into my head and it didn't exactly fill me with confidence."
"Scented beeswax could easily be coated in nitroglycerin. All you need to do is tap it from a certain distance."
"..."
"..."
"Okay, in fariness, none of that was from me. What's napoglyceride?"
"Point is, there's plenty of ways to do this."
"We could each do it a different way and use the results in tandem."
"They're supposed to be held to the same standard. In practice, they're pretty much called in to deal with particularly troublesome criminals and left to do whatever they want the rest of the time."
"This is starting to get ominous. Who sends them in? Do they answer to a higher authority?"
"Well... I'll ask a little later. I'm interested in learning more, but I'd rather have a bit more privacy to discuss it." Night Jewel gave a meaningful glance to Dawnstrider.
"So, are we going to see the festivities now?"
"I don't think I'd be adverse to a nice stroll."
"I heard rumors of some sort of pageant. Is it the Hearth's Warming Story?"
"Possibly. We'll need to get Star and Sovereign watching that at some point."
"Stellar."
"Right, sorry."
"Also, I think somepony is singing an existentialist carol about the dangers of capitalism."
"Already? Wow, this town is on the ball."
Staccata keeps a sourpuss grimace on after that remark. Meanwhile ponies around town are going crazy... er... than normal pony. Meanwhile, the band senses its moment and starts up. (A Hearth's Warming without needless music numbers doesn't seem right)
At least it isn't going to grate on the ears, Staccata is a trained and cutie-marked singer. Anypony around is always welcome to add in a verse or duet or back-and-forth during this, of course.
"It's a magical season, so everpony says.
When the nights are chilly and it snows on most days.
We laugh and celebrate and help all those in need."
Tyrol blinked, a little confused by the sudden outburst of song. Lemongrass chuckled and added his voice to the rejoinder.
"Tis' indeed a magical season.
For Hearth's Warming's here.
To celebrate those dark days long past~"
Staccata slides over to the shopping ponies and takes hold of the object of their desire, calming them momentarily.
"And then... we throw it all away, to slake our endless greeeeeeeed."
The pair stared at the scene, momentarily transfixed by the item that she was holding.
The mare tosses it back at the ponies and they begin fighting again. There's going to be a lot of cutaways to areas that illustrate the lyrics, so Tyrol and Lemongrass better keep up.
"Ponies maul each other to save a coin or two.
They greet and wish you well, until they turn on you.
All of this money on lights but what the hay,
It's better than only seeing the sky's sickly tone of grey.
You see hidden misery just beneath your sight.
No wonder the season causes everyone to fight.
Every sin is present from wrath to gluttony.
And everypony's happy but me."
Then they promptly was overrun by the mob as they started chasing after it.
It took some time before Tyrol and Lemongrass managed to crawl out of the melee, and threw themselves onto the ground next to Staccata. Then Tyrol picked himself up, and turned to hold Staccata's hoof.
"... Staccata, really now..." he said softly, letting his soft green eyes drink in her features. The music band, somehow sensing the song, changed their tune (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8qMISasndg).
When I close my eyes
All I do is think of you
And I wonder if you feel the same way too
Will tonight be the night
That everything will be just right?
Beneath the wreaths of green
I see it in my dreams
We're all finding our way
Through another holiday
Wrapping hopes and dreams
In angel's wings tonight
Time to give and receive
But the only gift I need
Is to share this day and every day with you
On my Hearth's Warming list
There's a wish I hope will come true
That this holiday brings me one step closer to you
Let tonight be the night
That every star's a diamond light
The smile in your eye's
A beautiful surprise
We're all finding our way
Through another holiday
Wrapping hopes and dreams
In angel's wings tonight
Time to give and receive
But the only gift I need
Is to share this day and every day with you
What do I see (What do I see)
In the morning light
My yuletide dream became reality
We're all finding our way
It's the greatest holiday
Cathching hopes and dreams
On angel's wings tonight
You're my heart, you're my home
You're the hope I've always known
When I share this day and every day with you
(Joy to the world)
We're all finding our way
It's the greatest holiday
Flying high on my angel's wing tonight
You're my heart, you're my home
You're the hope I've always known
When I share this day and every day with you
(Joy to the world)
Share this day
(Joy to the world)
Day with you
Share this day
Day with you
(Joy to the world)
Share the day
Just me and you
(Joy to the world)
Me and you
(Joy to the world)
Share this day
(Yes, unabashedly stolen. I really can't make up lyrics to save my life.)
[/SIZE]
The moment the question dripped out of her mouth, the door jiggled and then slammed opened as a stallion dressed up in a Santa Hooves suit grandly stepped in.
"Oh ho ho ho to the young couple!" Twas Balboa...dressed in mentioned suit, carrying a red sack over his back. Behind him stood Astrid who was scribbling down something on her note pad. She was dressed as an elven pony complete with a green jingling hat. She had a neutral expression on her face as she then stared at Icy and Fox.
Fox's jaw fell as he stared all agasp, his face turning red in sputtering anger.
"Hahah oh ho...Oh Foxy! My son...Happy Hearthswarming! Don't look so red, tis not a season for such things hahah oh ho ho!"
Icy scowled at the intruding presence. "Mr Balboa. I must insist you step out of my house this instant! This is private property!" She gestured at the stallion towards the door.
I wonder~ He purred, petting the mare's mane.
Esemralda giggled, then turned to nibble at his ears. It was something she liked to do. :smalltongue: "So coy, my dear Star? It's been awhile..."
MCerberus
2013-12-24, 03:09 PM
Tyrol blinked, a little confused by the sudden outburst of song. Lemongrass chuckled and added his voice to the rejoinder.
"Tis' indeed a magical season.
For Hearth's Warming's here.
To celebrate those dark days long past~"
The pair stared at the scene, momentarily transfixed by the item that she was holding.
Then they promptly was overrun by the mob as they started chasing after it.
It took some time before Tyrol and Lemongrass managed to crawl out of the melee, and threw themselves onto the ground next to Staccata. Then Tyrol picked himself up, and turned to hold Staccata's hoof.
"... Staccata, really now..." he said softly, letting his soft green eyes drink in her features. The music band, somehow sensing the song, changed their tune (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8qMISasndg).
When I close my eyes
All I do is think of you
And I wonder if you feel the same way too
Will tonight be the night
That everything will be just right?
Beneath the wreaths of green
I see it in my dreams
We're all finding our way
Through another holiday
Wrapping hopes and dreams
In angel's wings tonight
Time to give and receive
But the only gift I need
Is to share this day and every day with you
On my Hearth's Warming list
There's a wish I hope will come true
That this holiday brings me one step closer to you
Let tonight be the night
That every star's a diamond light
The smile in your eye's
A beautiful surprise
We're all finding our way
Through another holiday
Wrapping hopes and dreams
In angel's wings tonight
Time to give and receive
But the only gift I need
Is to share this day and every day with you
What do I see (What do I see)
In the morning light
My yuletide dream became reality
We're all finding our way
It's the greatest holiday
Cathching hopes and dreams
On angel's wings tonight
You're my heart, you're my home
You're the hope I've always known
When I share this day and every day with you
(Joy to the world)
We're all finding our way
It's the greatest holiday
Flying high on my angel's wing tonight
You're my heart, you're my home
You're the hope I've always known
When I share this day and every day with you
(Joy to the world)
Share this day
(Joy to the world)
Day with you
Share this day
Day with you
(Joy to the world)
Share the day
Just me and you
(Joy to the world)
Me and you
(Joy to the world)
Share this day
And so the song ends, and ponies on the street throw some bits the way of the backup-music band. Then the musicians run off presumably because somepony is about to start talking about the importance of family or something.
Staccata meanwhile is getting a little misty-eyed. She walks up to Taylor and gives him a little nuzzle. "Can we just go home right now?"
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-26, 02:47 AM
"I was actually asking how high you planned on going, and where you wanted this cloud cover in relation to that."
"It is not a necessity that you make drastic adjustments to the local environment. The weather can be what it was going to be. The risk of missing additional threats is not severe, and the damage from interfering with local weather would most likely be more extreme in any case."
"My first instinct it to stick 'em full of pure capsaicin, but..."
"But that might hurt the crowd."
"Right, that too."
"Well, they used to call certain types of fireworks Army Candles. Why not make actual candles?"
"The phrase 'volatile candle wax' just jumped into my head and it didn't exactly fill me with confidence."
"Scented beeswax could easily be coated in nitroglycerin. All you need to do is tap it from a certain distance."
"..."
"..."
"Okay, in fariness, none of that was from me. What's napoglyceride?"
"Point is, there's plenty of ways to do this."
"We could each do it a different way and use the results in tandem."
"Ni-tro-glysrin?" Blades cocked her head, thought for a bit, then nodded. "Think I've heard of it. It could go off if ya drop it too hard. Might make nice fireworks if ya could get it 'n keep 'em from goin' off too early..."
And if there was nothing else to discuss, they would set about making some good explosives. Blades wasn't too concerned about safety, but Arvadraa and Starbeam could probably help keep her from killing anyone indirectly, at least.
"This is starting to get ominous. Who sends them in? Do they answer to a higher authority?"
"They have their own hierarchy. I'm not an expert, but I think it's devotion to their cause and general skill that helps them rise in rank. Of course, the only active duty I've seen has been pretty much entirely directed by a certain commander, so the higher-ups don't seem to meddle much."
"I don't think I'd be adverse to a nice stroll."
"I heard rumors of some sort of pageant. Is it the Hearth's Warming Story?"
"Possibly. We'll need to get Star and Sovereign watching that at some point."
"Stellar."
"Right, sorry."
"Also, I think somepony is singing an existentialist carol about the dangers of capitalism."
"Already? Wow, this town is on the ball."
"Ooh, a play! I haven't seen one of those in a while!" Night Jewel hopped a bit in place. "I'd love to see it! I wonder when and where it will be?"
Kelvin360
2013-12-26, 11:43 AM
"It is not a necessity that you make drastic adjustments to the local environment. The weather can be what it was going to be. The risk of missing additional threats is not severe, and the damage from interfering with local weather would most likely be more extreme in any case."
"I'm not sure if it's different where you come from, which is why I'm asking, but here in Equestria, pegasi dictate the weather. Most of today's cover is nimbostratus that I brought in, myself."
"Ni-tro-glysrin?" Blades cocked her head, thought for a bit, then nodded. "Think I've heard of it. It could go off if ya drop it too hard. Might make nice fireworks if ya could get it 'n keep 'em from goin' off too early..."
And if there was nothing else to discuss, they would set about making some good explosives. Blades wasn't too concerned about safety, but Arvadraa and Starbeam could probably help keep her from killing anyone indirectly, at least.
And, in fact, Starbeam is keeping a force shield in hair trigger. The two mares seem to have come to the unspoken agreement that Arvadraa keeps and eye on Blades while Star concentrates on Stellar. Unsurprisingly, the youngest of the group appears to be shooting for elegance in simplicity - her device is little more than a miniature forcecage with as many color augmentations and concussive detonation spells as she can cram in.
Arvadraa is slowly but surely working on her own suggestion. The scented beeswax is easy for her to come by, and Horne is more than willing to add his chemistry degree to the mix for a little dynamite.
Starbeam appears to be formulating the most complicated mix of technology and magic she possibly can. Her firework already has seven shifting parts and three sources of detonation. This mix is kept inside a glowing purple force field not unlike Stellar's, except this one is shaped into the form of an arrow instead of a lump of folded mass.
"They have their own hierarchy. I'm not an expert, but I think it's devotion to their cause and general skill that helps them rise in rank. Of course, the only active duty I've seen has been pretty much entirely directed by a certain commander, so the higher-ups don't seem to meddle much."
"Devotion, huh? I'll reserve judgment but note that such a practice could end up being very good or very bad."
"You're still going to want to visit, aren't you."
"Sure! We can bring the whole crew. Take a vacation."
"Historically, our vacations tend to end badly. Also, I elect myself to be the first to negotiate Daniel's way out of jail if Moonshine does not manage to restrain him first."
"Don't worry about you, worry about the other inmates. I guarantee he cheats at poker."
"I'm sure he'd be tickled that neither of you are batting an eyelash as to the prospect of his winding up in prison."
"It's Daniel in what sounds like law central."
"Even if he finds no crimes to put a stop to, it is likely he will end up insulting the wrong pony in a bar or undergo similar unfortunate circumstances."
"Ooh, a play! I haven't seen one of those in a while!" Night Jewel hopped a bit in place. "I'd love to see it! I wonder when and where it will be?"
"Well...let's see...ah." He strolls over to a random nearby pony, in this case one of the patients from the clinic that was discharged after having a bone reset earlier the previous day. "Morning, Dande. Nice to see that leg's still holding up well. You and Poppy going to go see the play at some point? We're all trying to decide on it; think it depends on the when and where."
Benson
2013-12-26, 12:26 PM
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride playfully elbowed Silverpine after Sandy happily trotted off and grinned. "I do agree with Shores...about you finding someplace warm later hahah heh." She gave him a wink and trotted on after Sandy looking back once at Silverpine and sticking her tongue out at him.
--
"Oh goody, the cirrus crew~" The director changed her tune as Sandy approached. She then woefully sighed and shook her head. "And not a moment to too soon...so many issues on the day of the play I felt close to shutting all production down, le siiiigh."
"Well, not too worry ma'am, we're here, willing to lend a hoof wherever we can, however we can!" Gearstride enthusiastically, if a little hammily exclaimed.
"Right, well wonderful...well, I'm Miss Soliloquy, director AND producer of Bridle Shores' Hearthswarming pageant," She gave a short bow.
=====
Icy's Place
"Oh ho ho...lovely to see you too Miss Icy Touch, lovely as ever, like a ice sculpture," He winked and seemed to ignore her 'warnings'.
"Tsk tsk....please...you two...I mean no ill will to either of you...I am simply here on a truce.....call it the holiday spirit deeply instilled in me....I simply desire to spend it with family~" He cheerfully smiled and helped himself inside as Astrid shut the door behind them.
"What game are you playing at?" Fox narrowed his eyes and lowered his head, ears straight up, tail swishing.
"I play no games, save for any family board games hahah...but seriously...I come here with an offering of peace, that at least for today we can put aside our...differences," He said, his eyes going wide, looking sincere, his muzzle forming a small frown.
HalfTangible
2013-12-26, 12:49 PM
Esemralda giggled, then turned to nibble at his ears. It was something she liked to do. :smalltongue: "So coy, my dear Star? It's been awhile..."
Lone Star chuckled and snuggled up closer as she nibbled his ear. Too long for my taste~
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-26, 05:13 PM
"Well...let's see...ah." He strolls over to a random nearby pony, in this case one of the patients from the clinic that was discharged after having a bone reset earlier the previous day. "Morning, Dande. Nice to see that leg's still holding up well. You and Poppy going to go see the play at some point? We're all trying to decide on it; think it depends on the when and where."
The pony in question - a golden yellow stallion with a green mane - nodded approvingly. "We're sure planning on it; Poppy's got the oven fired up for some in-show snacks and I'm off to see about drinks. The show's tonight, by the lake in the park. If you can, you should take your family out to see it, Doc. I hear it's a real class production this year; magical special effects, a hoof-crafted stage, and all run from ponies in-town. If you do go, I'm sure Poppy wouldn't mind making some extra food for you and yours." The stallion smiled appreciatively. "It's the least we can do after that miracle you worked on my leg."
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride playfully elbowed Silverpine after Sandy happily trotted off and grinned. "I do agree with Shores...about you finding someplace warm later hahah heh." She gave him a wink and trotted on after Sandy looking back once at Silverpine and sticking her tongue out at him.
--
"Oh goody, the cirrus crew~" The director changed her tune as Sandy approached. She then woefully sighed and shook her head. "And not a moment to too soon...so many issues on the day of the play I felt close to shutting all production down, le siiiigh."
"Well, not too worry ma'am, we're here, willing to lend a hoof wherever we can, however we can!" Gearstride enthusiastically, if a little hammily exclaimed.
"Right, well wonderful...well, I'm Miss Soliloquy, director AND producer of Bridle Shores' Hearthswarming pageant," She gave a short bow.
"G'afternoon an' Merry Hearth's Warmin', Miss Soliloquy. Sargent Sandy Shores, reportin' for duty," Sandy introduced himself, bowing politely in return. "I overheard y'needin' a unicorn? An' somepony t'mess with th' fuses? I ain't th' most clever with spellweavin', but I reckon I know m'way around electrics an' such. I'd be ready an' willin' t'give both m'best."
And so the song ends, and ponies on the street throw some bits the way of the backup-music band. Then the musicians run off presumably because somepony is about to start talking about the importance of family or something.
Staccata meanwhile is getting a little misty-eyed. She walks up to Taylor Tyrol and gives him a little nuzzle. "Can we just go home right now?"
Tyrol returned the nuzzle gently. "After this patrol, okay? Hey, maybe you can walk with me..."
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride playfully elbowed Silverpine after Sandy happily trotted off and grinned. "I do agree with Shores...about you finding someplace warm later hahah heh." She gave him a wink and trotted on after Sandy looking back once at Silverpine and sticking her tongue out at him.
Silverpine couldn't help but redden further at that cheeky comment.
"Oh goody, the cirrus crew~" The director changed her tune as Sandy approached. She then woefully sighed and shook her head. "And not a moment to too soon...so many issues on the day of the play I felt close to shutting all production down, le siiiigh."
"Well, not too worry ma'am, we're here, willing to lend a hoof wherever we can, however we can!" Gearstride enthusiastically, if a little hammily exclaimed.
"Right, well wonderful...well, I'm Miss Soliloquy, director AND producer of Bridle Shores' Hearthswarming pageant," She gave a short bow.
Fortunately, the director provided some welcome distraction. Silverpine quickly cleared his throat. "Pleased to meet you, Miss Soliloquy. I'm Lieutenant Silverpine, and this here is Captain Adventura Gearstride of the good ship Cirrus."
Icy's Place
"Oh ho ho...lovely to see you too Miss Icy Touch, lovely as ever, like a ice sculpture," He winked and seemed to ignore her 'warnings'.
"Tsk tsk....please...you two...I mean no ill will to either of you...I am simply here on a truce.....call it the holiday spirit deeply instilled in me....I simply desire to spend it with family~" He cheerfully smiled and helped himself inside as Astrid shut the door behind them.
"What game are you playing at?" Fox narrowed his eyes and lowered his head, ears straight up, tail swishing.
"I play no games, save for any family board games hahah...but seriously...I come here with an offering of peace, that at least for today we can put aside our...differences," He said, his eyes going wide, looking sincere, his muzzle forming a small frown.
"... just what exactly you're suggesting, Mr Balboa?" Icy said, her eyes narrowing. The air seemed to be getting noticeably frosty as well.
Lone Star chuckled and snuggled up closer as she nibbled his ear. Too long for my taste~
"Aha. Why don't we make it... a special Hearth's Warming? Just you and I?" Esmeralda whispered sultrily, her voice dripping with promise, her nibbles growing ever more intimate, with one hoof caressing his good wing lightly.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-26, 11:31 PM
"I'm not sure if it's different where you come from, which is why I'm asking, but here in Equestria, pegasi dictate the weather. Most of today's cover is nimbostratus that I brought in, myself."
"I am well aware of the capacities of different varieties of ponies. They are merely... less relevant. Strange as it may seem to you, in climates where there is seldom enough water for precipitation, managing rain and snow is not exactly a frequent activity." Blueshield shook her head.
"At any rate, I assume you have made prior arrangements. If so, do not alter them. If not, then you should have to ensure that the job got done properly."
And, in fact, Starbeam is keeping a force shield in hair trigger. The two mares seem to have come to the unspoken agreement that Arvadraa keeps and eye on Blades while Star concentrates on Stellar. Unsurprisingly, the youngest of the group appears to be shooting for elegance in simplicity - her device is little more than a miniature forcecage with as many color augmentations and concussive detonation spells as she can cram in.
Arvadraa is slowly but surely working on her own suggestion. The scented beeswax is easy for her to come by, and Horne is more than willing to add his chemistry degree to the mix for a little dynamite.
Starbeam appears to be formulating the most complicated mix of technology and magic she possibly can. Her firework already has seven shifting parts and three sources of detonation. This mix is kept inside a glowing purple force field not unlike Stellar's, except this one is shaped into the form of an arrow instead of a lump of folded mass.
Blades, naturally, was making a variety of completely non-magical fireworks and explosives. Some were elegantly shaped and aerodynamic, others were rather clunky-looking, but packed with as many explosives as possible.
"Devotion, huh? I'll reserve judgment but note that such a practice could end up being very good or very bad."
"You're still going to want to visit, aren't you."
"Sure! We can bring the whole crew. Take a vacation."
"Historically, our vacations tend to end badly. Also, I elect myself to be the first to negotiate Daniel's way out of jail if Moonshine does not manage to restrain him first."
"Don't worry about you, worry about the other inmates. I guarantee he cheats at poker."
"I'm sure he'd be tickled that neither of you are batting an eyelash as to the prospect of his winding up in prison."
"It's Daniel in what sounds like law central."
"Even if he finds no crimes to put a stop to, it is likely he will end up insulting the wrong pony in a bar or undergo similar unfortunate circumstances."
Night Jewel laughed. "Oh, it's not that hard to stay out of trouble. If it were, I wouldn't have survived this long. You can get away with all kinds of things if you know what you're doing..."
Hello, girl? You're talking to a paladin here!
"...Well, I don't think they'll really bother you if you're not a dedicated criminal, at any rate."
Kelvin360
2013-12-27, 01:24 AM
The pony in question - a golden yellow stallion with a green mane - nodded approvingly. "We're sure planning on it; Poppy's got the oven fired up for some in-show snacks and I'm off to see about drinks. The show's tonight, by the lake in the park. If you can, you should take your family out to see it, Doc. I hear it's a real class production this year; magical special effects, a hoof-crafted stage, and all run from ponies in-town. If you do go, I'm sure Poppy wouldn't mind making some extra food for you and yours." The stallion smiled appreciatively. "It's the least we can do after that miracle you worked on my leg."
Taylor grins. "With so much going into it, how can I not? We'll certainly appreciate an extra meal, but don't feel either of you have to go out of your way just for me if it's a bother. Oh! And make sure to warm up the snow-water a bit before using it for your holly patch. They may be evergreen, but they don't like cold fluids too much. With the exception of a hot summer day or a nice lager, they're a lot like us in that regard."
"I am well aware of the capacities of different varieties of ponies. They are merely... less relevant. Strange as it may seem to you, in climates where there is seldom enough water for precipitation, managing rain and snow is not exactly a frequent activity." Blueshield shook her head.
"At any rate, I assume you have made prior arrangements. If so, do not alter them. If not, then you should have to ensure that the job got done properly."
Snowstorm tilts her head and raises an eyebrow. "Huh. Okay. Lemme show you something." She points a hoof above their heads. "Look around at them. Notice three things. One, there are two layers of clouds, perpendicular to each other, but vertically. Two, they're a uniform shade of gray. Three..." She reaches out and taps a nearby cloud, the force of which causes a spark of electricity to shoot from it to her hoof. "They're charged.
What that means is, there is a layer sitting above us that acts as cover, a maze, and a trap, depending on what we need at the time. I didn't spend all morning pushing these things around for snowfall, that was just a bonus. It's a mobile and contained battlefield. And before the point gets raised that they could be used against us, note those gaps in the lower layer every so often. They're hard to see because of the color similarities, so look close. I memorized those when I set them in - if the cluster shifts, I know about it. If the clouds lose their static, I know about it. They lighten when they aren't spinning with a rough ton of pent-up electrons.
Long story short - you're hovering in my domain. One that's been purposefully set up for exactly what you're trying to do for, oh, six hours? Now, I can rearrange the entire thing to bring down a separate layer you can use. Problem is, I don't know your play aside from 'fly around at this height for a while and see if anything tries to kill me', and even that's guessing. I've been putting my faith on the marker that you know what you're doing, and putting forth more suggestions on that principle. Because you know what? A pony doesn't get to your position if they don't know what they're doing. I respect that, and you, and trust in your actions. But you're making it harder than it has to be when you operate under the assumption that an ally is an amateur just because they aren't as openly hardline as you are."
She pauses, glances upwards, and continues in the casual tone she's been using for the past three paragraphs. "Did I miss anything?"
Blades, naturally, was making a variety of completely non-magical fireworks and explosives. Some were elegantly shaped and aerodynamic, others were rather clunky-looking, but packed with as many explosives as possible.
"We got any saltpeter?"
"Well we have salt..."
"Are you mixing smokepowder?"
"Sort of. If this gets too big, it's going to go in on itself, and I want an EXplosion, not an IMplosion."
"So your solution is to mix more in?"
"More explosions are the answer to everything."
"...Try mixing the power into different sets and closing them off. You won't lose any energy and the device will release itself multiple times."
Night Jewel laughed. "Oh, it's not that hard to stay out of trouble. If it were, I wouldn't have survived this long. You can get away with all kinds of things if you know what you're doing..."
Hello, girl? You're talking to a paladin here!
"...Well, I don't think they'll really bother you if you're not a dedicated criminal, at any rate."
Silver and Dawnstrider lock eyes and then the subject is very awkwardly changed. "Do you have any family back home?"
Dawnstrider suddenly looks like he's trying to avoid facehoofing.
HalfTangible
2013-12-27, 01:59 AM
"Aha. Why don't we make it... a special Hearth's Warming? Just you and I?" Esmeralda whispered sultrily, her voice dripping with promise, her nibbles growing ever more intimate, with one hoof caressing his good wing lightly.
It's already special with you here~ Lone Star grinned, wrapping his hooves around her. But let's see if we can make it even moreso, eh~?
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-27, 03:44 AM
Snowstorm tilts her head and raises an eyebrow. "Huh. Okay. Lemme show you something." She points a hoof above their heads. "Look around at them. Notice three things. One, there are two layers of clouds, perpendicular to each other, but vertically. Two, they're a uniform shade of gray. Three..." She reaches out and taps a nearby cloud, the force of which causes a spark of electricity to shoot from it to her hoof. "They're charged.
What that means is, there is a layer sitting above us that acts as cover, a maze, and a trap, depending on what we need at the time. I didn't spend all morning pushing these things around for snowfall, that was just a bonus. It's a mobile and contained battlefield. And before the point gets raised that they could be used against us, note those gaps in the lower layer every so often. They're hard to see because of the color similarities, so look close. I memorized those when I set them in - if the cluster shifts, I know about it. If the clouds lose their static, I know about it. They lighten when they aren't spinning with a rough ton of pent-up electrons.
Long story short - you're hovering in my domain. One that's been purposefully set up for exactly what you're trying to do for, oh, six hours? Now, I can rearrange the entire thing to bring down a separate layer you can use. Problem is, I don't know your play aside from 'fly around at this height for a while and see if anything tries to kill me', and even that's guessing. I've been putting my faith on the marker that you know what you're doing, and putting forth more suggestions on that principle. Because you know what? A pony doesn't get to your position if they don't know what they're doing. I respect that, and you, and trust in your actions. But you're making it harder than it has to be when you operate under the assumption that an ally is an amateur just because they aren't as openly hardline as you are."
She pauses, glances upwards, and continues in the casual tone she's been using for the past three paragraphs. "Did I miss anything?"
Blueshield paused. It seemed this had actually got through to her.
"...Your arrangements are beyond adequate" She looked around carefully, possibly to admire the set-up. "I suppose I need not elevate myself higher than necessary to see beyond ground-level obstacles, and you need not make adjustments.
"Now, my plan was to employ these." She retrieved from her quiver a quarrel with an unusual-looking head. "When sufficiently disturbed, they produce significant amounts of light and sound, partially as a signal and partially to disable the senses of whatever triggered them. They also mark the subject with colour and scent temporarily, making identification easier. Thus, they make excellent alarms, whether prepared in advance or fired immediately.
"I intend to scout for threats. If I locate a minor adversary that I could easily dispatch personally, I will deal with it immediately. If a major adversary, I will shoot it with one of the devices mounted on the quarrels. If there is potential for danger, but no immediate threat, I will place an alarm for safety purposes. Do you have other suggestions?"
((Achievement Unlocked: Impress Blueshield))
"We got any saltpeter?"
"Well we have salt..."
"Are you mixing smokepowder?"
"Sort of. If this gets too big, it's going to go in on itself, and I want an EXplosion, not an IMplosion."
"So your solution is to mix more in?"
"More explosions are the answer to everything."
"...Try mixing the power into different sets and closing them off. You won't lose any energy and the device will release itself multiple times."
"It's in the lil' jar behind the mushrooms."
Blades nodded. "Sometimes ya get more if ya don't use it all at once. Make 'em go bang a few times. I think I heard once that the griffons were makin' a rocket that went off more than once 'n could fly further. I wonder if they're still tryin'? Did they get it right? Did they give up?"
Silver and Dawnstrider lock eyes and then the subject is very awkwardly changed. "Do you have any family back home?"
Dawnstrider suddenly looks like he's trying to avoid facehoofing.Taylor grins.
"Oh!" Night Jewel took a moment to consider. "I'm not sure if I do. I never knew my parents. I suspect they died, but it's also possible that they're alive and just abandoned me because they wanted to get rid of me and didn't care for me at all. You know, it's kind of funny... Them being dead might be the better possibility." She forced a laugh at her little quips, then shook her head.
The pony in question - a golden yellow stallion with a green mane - nodded approvingly. "We're sure planning on it; Poppy's got the oven fired up for some in-show snacks and I'm off to see about drinks. The show's tonight, by the lake in the park. If you can, you should take your family out to see it, Doc. I hear it's a real class production this year; magical special effects, a hoof-crafted stage, and all run from ponies in-town. If you do go, I'm sure Poppy wouldn't mind making some extra food for you and yours." The stallion smiled appreciatively. "It's the least we can do after that miracle you worked on my leg."
"Oh, nice! I'll definitely be there, then." Night Jewel smiled at this other pony. "Do you know if there's anything I could help with? I'd love to get involved, and I'd get to see how it's being done."
Lycan 01
2013-12-27, 05:57 AM
[Skies Above Bridle Shores]
Purple Prose listens to Blueshield and Snowstorm's back and forth with a stoic, placid expression. His good eye idly shifts gaze from one mare to the other as they take turns speaking and exchanging jabs and information. He knows not to interject, especially as the two mares detail their (very impressive) talents and abilities.
Not wanting to be left out of the discussion or be completely outshined by the two mares, though, the batpony gives a small shrug. "I can see in the dark," he aloofly adds, flashing a relaxed, pleasant smile at his two conversational companions.
He also knows more than five ways to kill a griffon with a tin can, but disturbing Shadowbolt stuff like that isn't really appropriate for polite company like this.
"Oh, and impressive flashbangs," he suddenly adds, nodding to the quarrel of strange projectiles Blueshield has. "And yes, I have a suggestion. If you encounter the threat that poses no immediate danger, might I suggest firing one of the bolts up and past them, so it lands in the distance, and you're able to study and analyze how to respond to suspicious sounds or perceived threats? How perceptive they are, how organized they are, how tactical they are, how prudent they are, so on and so forth. Putting your target into artificial circumstances so you can study how they respond to perceived situations is always a very informative exercise..." he muses thoughtfully.
MCerberus
2013-12-28, 02:11 AM
Tyrol returned the nuzzle gently. "After this patrol, okay? Hey, maybe you can walk with me..."
"Is it going to take long?" the mare asks while they presumably all go to insert their faces into somepony else's business.
It's already special with you here~ Lone Star grinned, wrapping his hooves around her. But let's see if we can make it even moreso, eh~?
"Oho, I like the way you think~" Esmeralda purred, before flicking the camera away with a burst of her magic. :smalltongue:
"Is it going to take long?" the mare asks while they presumably all go to insert their faces into somepony else's business.
"Not really. An hour at most-- Cripe, I was supposed to show that uptight Knight-Commander fella the Drum."
Lemongrass shrugged. "Eh, just stick around for a cider then say you want the night off."
"Really? Don't know how they'll take to that..."
MCerberus
2013-12-29, 12:17 AM
"Not really. An hour at most-- Cripe, I was supposed to show that uptight Knight-Commander fella the Drum."
Lemongrass shrugged. "Eh, just stick around for a cider then say you want the night off."
"Really? Don't know how they'll take to that..."
"I can actually use a drink, assuming it isn't too... whatever you want to describe this mess as," Staccata states acting the part of being somewhat back to normal.
Speaking of which, a stallion managed to claim the sampler pack and declares himself 'king of the season' on top of his defeated shopper opponents. During all the noise a young-adult mare lifts and sneaks off with the prize (after paying for it of course).
HalfTangible
2013-12-29, 12:44 AM
"Oho, I like the way you think~" Esmeralda purred, before flicking the camera away with a burst of her magic. :smalltongue:
After applying to be part of the robot apocalypse (and be rejected for being too psychotic) the camera returned to find Lone Star giving Es a massage. Heh heh~ Delightful~
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-30, 10:25 AM
Taylor grins. "With so much going into it, how can I not? We'll certainly appreciate an extra meal, but don't feel either of you have to go out of your way just for me if it's a bother. Oh! And make sure to warm up the snow-water a bit before using it for your holly patch. They may be evergreen, but they don't like cold fluids too much. With the exception of a hot summer day or a nice lager, they're a lot like us in that regard."
"Doc, it would've been more of a bother to spend Hearth's Warming in the hospital with my leg nearly split in two. Poppy's making you extra grub, and ten armies couldn't stop her." He chuckled nervously. "Believe me; she's lethal with a serving spoon."
EDIT:
"Oh, nice! I'll definitely be there, then." Night Jewel smiled at this other pony. "Do you know if there's anything I could help with? I'd love to get involved, and I'd get to see how it's being done."[/QUOTE]
The pony scratched his chin. "Now that y'mention it, I think there might be. I hear talk that a lot of the labor is volunteer-run, so I'm sure they could always use an extra pair of hooves. Besides, with all the fancy effects they're trying to pull off, I'm sure they could use a pony clever with magic." He nods to her horn. "If you want to help, just look for somepony in charge and volunteer yourself; I'm sure they can find something for willing hooves to help with."
"Though on that, I ought to be off. Groceries won't buy themselves, y'know. I'll keep that snow-water tip in mind, Doc! And Happy Hearth's Warming, all!" He waved to the group, and, unless stopped by further questions, trotted off whistling a merry tune.
Benson
2013-12-30, 12:00 PM
Bridle Shores Park
Soliloquy nodded her head at Silverpine and Gearstride with a polite smile.
She wanly smiled at Sandy and tilted her head. "Yes...we're having some electrical problems with some of the lights and not to mention dang problems with the light control box itself. Habitually controls the wrong set of lights."
======
Icy's Place
Balboa shivered a little and made a low raspberry sound with his pony lips. "Tis getting cold in here, hot cocoa me Miss Astrid."
"Yes sir," Astrid said dryly as she whipped out a steaming cup of hot cocoa from her saddle bag....somehow and even tossed in a small shot of brandy into the mix. And then offered to Balboa.
"Hmmm...delicious." He hummed and sipped and made himself comfortable on Icy's couch. Fox was still stuck in perma-flabbergasted mode.
"My dear Miss Icy Touch, you're a smart beautiful lass, surely you understand what I'm suggesting. Though I am curious at what you assume I'm suggesting." He ho hummed and took a sip of his cocoa.
Kelvin360
2013-12-30, 12:52 PM
Blueshield paused. It seemed this had actually got through to her.
"...Your arrangements are beyond adequate" She looked around carefully, possibly to admire the set-up. "I suppose I need not elevate myself higher than necessary to see beyond ground-level obstacles, and you need not make adjustments.
"Now, my plan was to employ these." She retrieved from her quiver a quarrel with an unusual-looking head. "When sufficiently disturbed, they produce significant amounts of light and sound, partially as a signal and partially to disable the senses of whatever triggered them. They also mark the subject with colour and scent temporarily, making identification easier. Thus, they make excellent alarms, whether prepared in advance or fired immediately.
"I intend to scout for threats. If I locate a minor adversary that I could easily dispatch personally, I will deal with it immediately. If a major adversary, I will shoot it with one of the devices mounted on the quarrels. If there is potential for danger, but no immediate threat, I will place an alarm for safety purposes. Do you have other suggestions?"
[Skies Above Bridle Shores]
Purple Prose listens to Blueshield and Snowstorm's back and forth with a stoic, placid expression. His good eye idly shifts gaze from one mare to the other as they take turns speaking and exchanging jabs and information. He knows not to interject, especially as the two mares detail their (very impressive) talents and abilities.
Not wanting to be left out of the discussion or be completely outshined by the two mares, though, the batpony gives a small shrug. "I can see in the dark," he aloofly adds, flashing a relaxed, pleasant smile at his two conversational companions.
He also knows more than five ways to kill a griffon with a tin can, but disturbing Shadowbolt stuff like that isn't really appropriate for polite company like this.
"Oh, and impressive flashbangs," he suddenly adds, nodding to the quarrel of strange projectiles Blueshield has. "And yes, I have a suggestion. If you encounter the threat that poses no immediate danger, might I suggest firing one of the bolts up and past them, so it lands in the distance, and you're able to study and analyze how to respond to suspicious sounds or perceived threats? How perceptive they are, how organized they are, how tactical they are, how prudent they are, so on and so forth. Putting your target into artificial circumstances so you can study how they respond to perceived situations is always a very informative exercise..." he muses thoughtfully.
Snowstorm grins. "I like how you two think. I do think we should reserve those particular bolts to mark targets, though. I'll be up high enough to where it'll be difficult to tell whether the bolt is a distraction or a legitimate warning. Do we have anything else on hoof that could be used to gather intel, like Prose said?"
"It's in the lil' jar behind the mushrooms."
Blades nodded. "Sometimes ya get more if ya don't use it all at once. Make 'em go bang a few times. I think I heard once that the griffons were makin' a rocket that went off more than once 'n could fly further. I wonder if they're still tryin'? Did they get it right? Did they give up?"
"Oh, you know Equestria. They probably tried, our dear nation thought it was a declaration of war, went in, dismantled everything. Can you imagine if Zebrica had tried something like that? That'd be like the end of the world."
"What would be the point of that, I wonder? Long-ranged engagements? It isn't like they could attack Canterlot with it; somepony would notice."
"What's a rocket?"
"Oh!" Night Jewel took a moment to consider. "I'm not sure if I do. I never knew my parents. I suspect they died, but it's also possible that they're alive and just abandoned me because they wanted to get rid of me and didn't care for me at all. You know, it's kind of funny... Them being dead might be the better possibility." She forced a laugh at her little quips, then shook her head.
At that, Silver looks quietly horrified and Dawnstrider adopts an expression that indicates if he wasn't trying to hide it, he would appear beyond rage.
"Doc, it would've been more of a bother to spend Hearth's Warming in the hospital with my leg nearly split in two. Poppy's making you extra grub, and ten armies couldn't stop her." He chuckled nervously. "Believe me; she's lethal with a serving spoon."
The pony scratched his chin. "Now that y'mention it, I think there might be. I hear talk that a lot of the labor is volunteer-run, so I'm sure they could always use an extra pair of hooves. Besides, with all the fancy effects they're trying to pull off, I'm sure they could use a pony clever with magic." He nods to her horn. "If you want to help, just look for somepony in charge and volunteer yourself; I'm sure they can find something for willing hooves to help with."
"Though on that, I ought to be off. Groceries won't buy themselves, y'know. I'll keep that snow-water tip in mind, Doc! And Happy Hearth's Warming, all!" Provided he wasn't stopped, the pony waved jovially to Taylor's whole group, and trotted off whistling a merry holiday tune.
"And a sunny new year." Taylor returns the farewell and walks back over to the tree, as well as his thunderstruck family. "Sounds to me like you got yourself a quest, Nigh-...What's up? You two look like somepony got hit by the train."
"We..." Silver mops her eyes with a hoof and glances at Night Jewel, to see if she wants to repeat herself or would rather continue on.
Bridle Shores Park
Soliloquy nodded her head at Silverpine and Gearstride with a polite smile.
She wanly smiled at Sandy and tilted her head. "Yes...we're having some electrical problems with some of the lights and not to mention dang problems with the light control box itself. Habitually controls the wrong set of lights."
"Ha, why don't you take a look at that, Mr Shores? Your mechanical skills will come handy," Silverpine said, glancing towards Sandy with a smirk.
Icy's Place
Balboa shivered a little and made a low raspberry sound with his pony lips. "Tis getting cold in here, hot cocoa me Miss Astrid."
"Yes sir," Astrid said dryly as she whipped out a steaming cup of hot cocoa from her saddle bag....somehow and even tossed in a small shot of brandy into the mix. And then offered to Balboa.
"Hmmm...delicious." He hummed and sipped and made himself comfortable on Icy's couch. Fox was still stuck in perma-flabbergasted mode.
"My dear Miss Icy Touch, you're a smart beautiful lass, surely you understand what I'm suggesting. Though I am curious at what you assume I'm suggesting." He ho hummed and took a sip of his cocoa.
"With you, Mr Balboa, I prefer not to take any chances in assuming anything. So why don't you either say what you want, or leave immediately," Icy said with a huff, looking more and more annoyed at the casual way Balboa was treating this as his home.
After applying to be part of the robot apocalypse (and be rejected for being too psychotic) the camera returned to find Lone Star giving Es a massage. Heh heh~ Delightful~
Esmeralda appeared to be enjoying the massage very much. :smalltongue: "Ooooh, yessssss.... Right there," she hissed, closing her eyes.
"I can actually use a drink, assuming it isn't too... whatever you want to describe this mess as," Staccata states acting the part of being somewhat back to normal.
Speaking of which, a stallion managed to claim the sampler pack and declares himself 'king of the season' on top of his defeated shopper opponents. During all the noise a young-adult mare lifts and sneaks off with the prize (after paying for it of course).
"The Drum's alright. Just... well, the alcohol can flow a little too freely at times," Tyrol said with a shrug, walking ahead now that the commotion is over.
"Is that why you think they order cider by the ton?" Lemongrass mused.
TheAmishPirate
2013-12-30, 08:42 PM
Bridle Shores Park
Soliloquy nodded her head at Silverpine and Gearstride with a polite smile.
She wanly smiled at Sandy and tilted her head. "Yes...we're having some electrical problems with some of the lights and not to mention dang problems with the light control box itself. Habitually controls the wrong set of lights."
"Ha, why don't you take a look at that, Mr Shores? Your mechanical skills will come handy," Silverpine said, glancing towards Sandy with a smirk.
Sandy needed no further bidding. With a precise burst of magic, he flipped out his wire strippers from some hidden pocket and expertly caught them in his mouth. "Ma'am, if you can just point me t'your light box, I'll have th' pesky thing behavin' properly in no time." A momentary glint of sunlight glimmered off his tools. "Or I ain't th' engineer of th' Cirrus!"
He turned to his crewmates and gave a sheepish grin. "Heh...I, uh, figured it might be a good idea t'bring my tools along. Y'know, just in case th' Cap'n needed me t'do some emergency repairs on somethin'."
MCerberus
2013-12-30, 09:15 PM
"The Drum's alright. Just... well, the alcohol can flow a little too freely at times," Tyrol said with a shrug, walking ahead now that the commotion is over.
"Is that why you think they order cider by the ton?" Lemongrass mused.
And so the three would likely fast forward to the bar where Staccata would do her best to not tell either of them of the seedy network of informants and ne'er-do-wells. That would be bad for the free exchange of information.
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-30, 09:21 PM
Purple Prose listens to Blueshield and Snowstorm's back and forth with a stoic, placid expression. His good eye idly shifts gaze from one mare to the other as they take turns speaking and exchanging jabs and information. He knows not to interject, especially as the two mares detail their (very impressive) talents and abilities.
Not wanting to be left out of the discussion or be completely outshined by the two mares, though, the batpony gives a small shrug. "I can see in the dark," he aloofly adds, flashing a relaxed, pleasant smile at his two conversational companions.
He also knows more than five ways to kill a griffon with a tin can, but disturbing Shadowbolt stuff like that isn't really appropriate for polite company like this.
"Most impressive," remarked Blueshield, looking pointedly at the brightly-lit clouds above. "I shall make certain to inform you should it come to pass that the sun set exceptionally early and every lantern in town be stolen by some rascal."
"Oh, and impressive flashbangs," he suddenly adds, nodding to the quarrel of strange projectiles Blueshield has. "And yes, I have a suggestion. If you encounter the threat that poses no immediate danger, might I suggest firing one of the bolts up and past them, so it lands in the distance, and you're able to study and analyze how to respond to suspicious sounds or perceived threats? How perceptive they are, how organized they are, how tactical they are, how prudent they are, so on and so forth. Putting your target into artificial circumstances so you can study how they respond to perceived situations is always a very informative exercise..." he muses thoughtfully.
Snowstorm grins. "I like how you two think. I do think we should reserve those particular bolts to mark targets, though. I'll be up high enough to where it'll be difficult to tell whether the bolt is a distraction or a legitimate warning. Do we have anything else on hoof that could be used to gather intel, like Prose said?"
Blueshield put a hoof to her chin. "Such observations would be quite beneficial should a less immediate threat be encountered, but difficult to arrange. It is not exactly the easiest task in Equestria to acquire a device capable of transmitting valid intelligence about such enemies, so the most practical method would probably be employing a pony especially alert and stealthy to..."
After a moment, her ears perked up.
"...Inquisitor Prose, it appears that I have a task for you."
"Oh, you know Equestria. They probably tried, our dear nation thought it was a declaration of war, went in, dismantled everything. Can you imagine if Zebrica had tried something like that? That'd be like the end of the world."
"What would be the point of that, I wonder? Long-ranged engagements? It isn't like they could attack Canterlot with it; somepony would notice."
"What's a rocket?"
"Oh, 'Vadraa..." Blades gave a soft chuckle. "It's a thing that flies by burnin' what's inside it! I think ya'd know that by now.
"Right. That could be what happened. A whole lotta cool things don't get made or allowed 'cause of politics. Which sucks, 'cause... Well, there's a lot ya can do with a rocket like that. Of course, ya wouldn't get to watch the blast if ya made it explode at those distances... Probly would make a nice ride if ya could work it out, though!"
"Doc, it would've been more of a bother to spend Hearth's Warming in the hospital with my leg nearly split in two. Poppy's making you extra grub, and ten armies couldn't stop her." He chuckled nervously. "Believe me; she's lethal with a serving spoon."
The pony scratched his chin. "Now that y'mention it, I think there might be. I hear talk that a lot of the labor is volunteer-run, so I'm sure they could always use an extra pair of hooves. Besides, with all the fancy effects they're trying to pull off, I'm sure they could use a pony clever with magic." He nods to her horn. "If you want to help, just look for somepony in charge and volunteer yourself; I'm sure they can find something for willing hooves to help with."
"Though on that, I ought to be off. Groceries won't buy themselves, y'know. I'll keep that snow-water tip in mind, Doc! And Happy Hearth's Warming, all!" He waved to the group, and, unless stopped by further questions, trotted off whistling a merry tune.
"All right. I'll be sure to look around. Thank you! Have a great day!"
I'm not actually sure if my magic would be any use, but maybe I could make little sparkles of light to work as snow or something. Or I could just help get scenery set up and such.
At that, Silver looks quietly horrified and Dawnstrider adopts an expression that indicates if he wasn't trying to hide it, he would appear beyond rage.
"And a sunny new year." Taylor returns the farewell and walks back over to the tree, as well as his thunderstruck family. "What's up? You two look like somepony got hit by the train."
"We..." Silver mops her eyes with a hoof and glances at Night Jewel, to see if she wants to repeat herself or would rather continue on.
"They asked about my family. I told them I never knew them, but I'm certain any relatives of note either never wanted me or are dead."
Night Jewel hung her head and went silent, letting the others react before continuing.
"...But that doesn't matter right now," she said, perking up a bit. "We still have some time before the play. Why don't we look for something to do?"
Lycan 01
2013-12-31, 08:43 AM
[Skies Above Bridle Shores]
Purple Prose's ear flicks a bit, as he frowns uncertainly. A task? I should have stuck with the poetry...
"Uh, sure?" he replies back a bit cautiously, tilting his head a bit to observe her with his good eye. "Whatcha got for me?"
"Also," he lowers his voice, smiling meekly, "Ixnay on the Inquisitor thing. I'm retired, Captain. 'Officially' at least. You can just call me Prose; no need for formalities," he informs her, smile turning more pleasant.
"Plus, uh," he mutters, looking down at the town below with a bit of bemusement, "Talk of Inquisitors and such kinda spooks ponies. I'd rather the townsfolk not think that my Hearthswarming Eve present to them is a trip to visit the royal dungeons or some other silly paranoia of that sort..."
Kelvin360
2013-12-31, 01:56 PM
Blueshield put a hoof to her chin. "Such observations would be quite beneficial should a less immediate threat be encountered, but difficult to arrange. It is not exactly the easiest task in Equestria to acquire a device capable of transmitting valid intelligence about such enemies, so the most practical method would probably be employing a pony especially alert and stealthy to..."
After a moment, her ears perked up.
"...Inquisitor Prose, it appears that I have a task for you."
[Skies Above Bridle Shores]
Purple Prose's ear flicks a bit, as he frowns uncertainly. A task? I should have stuck with the poetry...
"Uh, sure?" he replies back a bit cautiously, tilting his head a bit to observe her with his good eye. "Whatcha got for me?"
"Also," he lowers his voice, smiling meekly, "Ixnay on the Inquisitor thing. I'm retired, Captain. 'Officially' at least. You can just call me Prose; no need for formalities," he informs her, smile turning more pleasant.
"Plus, uh," he mutters, looking down at the town below with a bit of bemusement, "Talk of Inquisitors and such kinda spooks ponies. I'd rather the townsfolk not think that my Hearthswarming Eve present to them is a trip to visit the royal dungeons or some other silly paranoia of that sort..."
"Well, darn. No trips to the royal dungeons? Way to crush my hopes and dreams, Prose." Snowstorm shakes her head and throws a playful grin at the batpony.
"Oh, 'Vadraa..." Blades gave a soft chuckle. "It's a thing that flies by burnin' what's inside it! I think ya'd know that by now.
"Right. That could be what happened. A whole lotta cool things don't get made or allowed 'cause of politics. Which sucks, 'cause... Well, there's a lot ya can do with a rocket like that. Of course, ya wouldn't get to watch the blast if ya made it explode at those distances... Probly would make a nice ride if ya could work it out, though!"
"I guess that depends on whether it's a war rocket or a science rocket. I wouldn't really want to take a ride inside of a giant exploding death machine."
"Why the hay not?"
"...Some may disagree."
"They asked about my family. I told them I never knew them, but I'm certain any relatives of note either never wanted me or are dead."
Night Jewel hung her head and went silent, letting the others react before continuing.
"Hmm. You know, this is probably the point at which one with more experience than I in heartwarming monologues would offer up an inspiring tale that acts as a direct comparison between their life and yours. Buck that. I haven't lived your life, I don't even know what you're thinking now. So, instead, I'll just make a statement.
Family is what you make of it. A stable unit isn't necessarily bound by blood so much as trust and shared experience. It's easier with relatives, but they aren't end-alls. It isn't for some, mind you - a more solitary life can be appealing. But - and I'm about to completely oversimplify, so bear with me - if you feel like you want a family that's, well, better than the one life dealt you, make one."
He pauses and glances around. "Musical number? No? Okay, I think that's it. Now, if I'm not much mistaken, you just got yourself a quest. Let's all go see a pony about a play, shall we?"
PurityIcekiller
2013-12-31, 08:46 PM
Purple Prose's ear flicks a bit, as he frowns uncertainly. A task? I should have stuck with the poetry...
"Uh, sure?" he replies back a bit cautiously, tilting his head a bit to observe her with his good eye. "Whatcha got for me?"
"Also," he lowers his voice, smiling meekly, "Ixnay on the Inquisitor thing. I'm retired, Captain. 'Officially' at least. You can just call me Prose; no need for formalities," he informs her, smile turning more pleasant.
"Plus, uh," he mutters, looking down at the town below with a bit of bemusement, "Talk of Inquisitors and such kinda spooks ponies. I'd rather the townsfolk not think that my Hearthswarming Eve present to them is a trip to visit the royal dungeons or some other silly paranoia of that sort..."
"Very well, Mr. Prose. And you mean Commander, not Captain. When I use formalities, I at least make sure to use appropriate ones.
"Anyway, your assignment is this: If anything appears that is not an urgent threat, but may become one, you are to watch it while avoiding notice yourself. If you learn anything potentially useful, inform us immediately. Is that acceptable?"
"Well, darn. No trips to the royal dungeons? Way to crush my hopes and dreams, Prose." Snowstorm shakes her head and throws a playful grin at the batpony.
"You wouldn't want to go. As dungeons go, I have heard that yours are not as good as you like to think. Where I come from, places of incarceration are tended by decent interior decorators, and the service is far faster."
After a moment of silence, Blueshield added, "That was a joke."
"I guess that depends on whether it's a war rocket or a science rocket. I wouldn't really want to take a ride inside of a giant exploding death machine."
"Why the hay not?"
"...Some may disagree."
"Well, it might not have been made to explode when it hit something... Never really had a lot of details on it. The griffs weren't talkin' a whole lot 'bout it with us. A pity, 'cause they're smart creatures, 'n they can do a whole lot of stuff without magic."
"Hmm. You know, this is probably the point at which one with more experience than I in heartwarming monologues would offer up an inspiring tale that acts as a direct comparison between their life and yours. Buck that. I haven't lived your life, I don't even know what you're thinking now. So, instead, I'll just make a statement.
Family is what you make of it. A stable unit isn't necessarily bound by blood so much as trust and shared experience. It's easier with relatives, but they aren't end-alls. It isn't for some, mind you - a more solitary life can be appealing. But - and I'm about to completely oversimplify, so bear with me - if you feel like you want a family that's, well, better than the one life dealt you, make one."
Funny. I thought I'd be killed by a paladin.
Night Jewel listened intently until he had finished, then nodded.
"You're right. I can find my own, just like I've always done." She stepped forward to hug Taylor. "Thank you."
He pauses and glances around. "Musical number? No? Okay, I think that's it. Now, if I'm not much mistaken, you just got yourself a quest. Let's all go see a pony about a play, shall we?"
"Naam. That sounds good." She quickly let go of Taylor again. "It'll be a while before the play, but it's best to start helping them out early so they don't get surprised. Let's go!"
Kelvin360
2014-01-02, 04:06 PM
"You wouldn't want to go. As dungeons go, I have heard that yours are not as good as you like to think. Where I come from, places of incarceration are tended by decent interior decorators, and the service is far faster."
After a moment of silence, Blueshield added, "That was a joke."
Snowstorm chuckles. "Preaching to the choir. There's only so much they can do with 'flat gray'. They don't even go so far as to advertise it as 'flat gray...with torches!'. They need better PR. Maybe Prose could come up with something catchy."
"Well, it might not have been made to explode when it hit something... Never really had a lot of details on it. The griffs weren't talkin' a whole lot 'bout it with us. A pity, 'cause they're smart creatures, 'n they can do a whole lot of stuff without magic."
"They made something that runs on explosions but it wasn't designed to explode? Griffons are weird."
"I wonder if they would be willing to explore internationally-funded projects. I know more than a few professors at the SGU would love exploration of the topic, particularly a face-to-face with the technologically savvy."
Night Jewel listened intently until he had finished, then nodded.
"You're right. I can find my own, just like I've always done." She stepped forward to hug Taylor. "Thank you."
He returns the embrace, one leg draped over Jewel's side, his lips formed into a half-smile. "You're welcome."
"Naam. That sounds good." She quickly let go of Taylor again. "It'll be a while before the play, but it's best to start helping them out early so they don't get surprised. Let's go!"
The trio follow her lead, Taylor taking up a position close behind so that the heat he's projecting won't go to waste. Dawnstrider and Silver are at the very back, the former looking most everywhere but at the latter, who seems more than content with simply admiring Taylor's, shall we say, 'stride'.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-02, 09:41 PM
"They made something that runs on explosions but it wasn't designed to explode? Griffons are weird."
"I wonder if they would be willing to explore internationally-funded projects. I know more than a few professors at the SGU would love exploration of the topic, particularly a face-to-face with the technologically savvy."
"That's an idea! Workin' with 'em on some kinda science project... Of course, that's a bit of a big idea, but maybe we can do it next Hearth's Warmin'. After all, just 'cause the griffs are diffrent-lookin' doesn't mean we should leave 'em out!"
He returns the embrace, one leg draped over Jewel's side, his lips formed into a half-smile. "You're welcome."
The trio follow her lead, Taylor taking up a position close behind so that the heat he's projecting won't go to waste. Dawnstrider and Silver are at the very back, the former looking most everywhere but at the latter, who seems more than content with simply admiring Taylor's, shall we say, 'stride'.
Night Jewel looked around for any ponies that seemed to be part of the pageant, or at least doing something interesting.
What could be between those two? she wondered along the way. Whatever it is, it probably can't be worse than my situation.
[ElseWhere]
Near the square, there now appeared to be a stand that most ponies were certain hadn't been there before, with an unfamiliar-looking red mare tending to it.
"Ornaments! Decorations! Add a bit of light and dazzle to your holiday!" The stranger waved to a passer-by. "You! You look like you have prospects. What can I do for you?"
Said passer-by happened to be Flare. "Oh, good day. Maybe you can help, maybe you cannot... I am confused."
"Well, let me help you figure it out, then. Could you tell me what is confusing you?"
"It is... complicated." Flare sighed, then began explaining her difficulty understanding the present culture.
Lycan 01
2014-01-03, 03:07 AM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose smiles lazily at the "orders" from Blueshield. "Oh, so, my standard tactics of advanced recon and sating my morbid curiosity. Easy enough."
He then snickers a bit as the two mares banter about dungeons and interior design. "Tell ya what, ladies. If I ever have to drag either of you back to Canterlot for a criminal trial or information rendering, I'll make sure you get put in the good dungeons. I hear they're very fancy and full of... fung shei or whatever you call it," he muses with a roll of his eye.
Benson
2014-01-03, 04:27 PM
Icy's Pad
"Gasp...its like you don't trust me..." Balboa dramatically swoon-sighed bringing his hoof to his head whilst bringing his drink with his other hoof to his mouth and sipping the cocoa. "Its as I said, I just want..." He face dropped into a somber expression, his eyes downcast. "To spend one holiday with my only kin and his loved ones, the way it should be. Sometimes I just tire of extravagant sunny vacations in the Bah-llamas, it only reminds me of how lonely I really am."
Behind Balboa, Astrid was playing the world's tiniest violin.
===
===
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride chuckled at Sandy's preparedness and gave him a friendly noogie. "What a Sandy-ism." She lopsidedly grinned.
"Very well...I shall have someone take you to the box.." She said as she looked around and then plucked somepony who was walking along with a plate of cookies she was looking forward to devour but they flew into the air as she was yoinked over. "You..yes you..take these fine ponies to broken lights box."
The mare wrinkled her muzzle, saddened by the loss of her cookies. "Sigh, ahem, very well Miss Soliloquy, if you three would come with me." She gestured with a friendly smile. "My name is Prompter...I am a prompter...funny...heh...I wonder if mother knew this would be my fate...makes me glad I wasn't named Trash Collector or something hah..heh..right. ahem, sorry, just thinking aloud." She sheepishly smiled.
Th
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-03, 06:24 PM
Snowstorm chuckles. "Preaching to the choir. There's only so much they can do with 'flat gray'. They don't even go so far as to advertise it as 'flat gray...with torches!'. They need better PR. Maybe Prose could come up with something catchy."
"There is not much you can do if you just stick to torches. Candelabras can be more elegant, and a nice, tasteful tapestry here and there will liven the place up a bit."
Prose smiles lazily at the "orders" from Blueshield. "Oh, so, my standard tactics of advanced recon and sating my morbid curiosity. Easy enough."
"Naturally. What else would you expect? I certainly wouldn't order you to put on an elaborate dance routine for their viewing pleasure."
He then snickers a bit as the two mares banter about dungeons and interior design. "Tell ya what, ladies. If I ever have to drag either of you back to Canterlot for a criminal trial or information rendering, I'll make sure you get put in the good dungeons. I hear they're very fancy and full of... fung shei or whatever you call it," he muses with a roll of his eye.
Blueshield shook her head. "If I were ever to commit a crime that required such attention from higher authorities, you would have far more serious matters to deal with than which part of the dungeons I would be incarcerated in. Either I would have gone mad, or our current government would have slipped out of control and I would be part of the revolution."
Kelvin360
2014-01-03, 07:17 PM
"That's an idea! Workin' with 'em on some kinda science project... Of course, that's a bit of a big idea, but maybe we can do it next Hearth's Warmin'. After all, just 'cause the griffs are diffrent-lookin' doesn't mean we should leave 'em out!"
"We kind of have to get over that whole 'war' thing, too."
"Oh, I can't imagine something that happened so long ago would still contribute to some kind of grudge."
"Brains. Really. You're our little conscience, and we love you, but please become less naive."
Night Jewel looked around for any ponies that seemed to be part of the pageant, or at least doing something interesting.
What could be between those two? she wondered along the way. Whatever it is, it probably can't be worse than my situation.
"Looks like we're not the only ones with this idea." Taylor says, indicating the Cirrus crew. "Good to see Sandy out and about. Want to see if they can get you on the roster faster? Seems like they know what they're doing."
"There is not much you can do if you just stick to torches. Candelabras can be more elegant, and a nice, tasteful tapestry here and there will liven the place up a bit."
"Oh, that sounds practically homey. Toss in a nice rug here and there...hay, maybe even a chandelier at the front entrance. If you set up the lighting right, the refractions are gorgeous."
"Naturally. What else would you expect? I certainly wouldn't order you to put on an elaborate dance routine for their viewing pleasure."
"For the record, I'd watch that. Twice."
Blueshield shook her head. "If I were ever to commit a crime that required such attention from higher authorities, you would have far more serious matters to deal with than which part of the dungeons I would be incarcerated in. Either I would have gone mad, or our current government would have slipped out of control and I would be part of the revolution."
"Ironically we're only a generation or so removed from being able to do just that."
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose smiles lazily at the "orders" from Blueshield. "Oh, so, my standard tactics of advanced recon and sating my morbid curiosity. Easy enough."
He then snickers a bit as the two mares banter about dungeons and interior design. "Tell ya what, ladies. If I ever have to drag either of you back to Canterlot for a criminal trial or information rendering, I'll make sure you get put in the good dungeons. I hear they're very fancy and full of... fung shei or whatever you call it," he muses with a roll of his eye.
"Aww, how sweet. It's nice to know I've got a VIP pass if I ever decide to become a crime boss."
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-04, 12:12 AM
"We kind of have to get over that whole 'war' thing, too."
"Oh, I can't imagine something that happened so long ago would still contribute to some kind of grudge."
"Brains. Really. You're our little conscience, and we love you, but please become less naive."
Blades laughed. "Hey, maybe they just need to learn to take it. Just 'cause some ponies 'n griffons killed each other doesn't mean we can't be friends, right? I mean, I don't start hatin' a pony just 'cause they've killed one or two other ponies. Everypony kills now 'n then... Well, 'cept for 'Vadraa, I think."
"Looks like we're not the only ones with this idea." Taylor says, indicating the Cirrus crew. "Good to see Sandy out and about. Want to see if they can get you on the roster faster? Seems like they know what they're doing."
Night Jewel perked up her ears. "Absolutely!"
She trotted over toward the group with Prompter. "Hi! Do you need any more help here?"
"Oh, that sounds practically homey. Toss in a nice rug here and there...hay, maybe even a chandelier at the front entrance. If you set up the lighting right, the refractions are gorgeous."
"Good thinking. It surprises me that you would have such concern for the well-being of possible criminals, but any pony has their rights. Besides, better prison conditions could help reduce the number of ponies resisting arrest."
"Ironically we're only a generation or so removed from being able to do just that."
Blueshield got a thoughtful look. "That must have been why your country was training foals from birth in combat. Had I been in my current position then, I may have assisted in your uprising, assuming I was not too occupied with juvenile bandits."
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-04, 10:04 PM
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride chuckled at Sandy's preparedness and gave him a friendly noogie. "What a Sandy-ism." She lopsidedly grinned.
"I-i-it could happen!" Sandy meekly protested, wincing as his poor mane was ruthlessly noogie'd. "And...I guess it just did, now that I think about it. I would've had t'run all th' way back to th' ship t'get my-ah! Oooh! Tickles!" The little engineer squirmed out of Gear's grasp before she could abuse her authority over his mane any further. :smalltongue:
"Very well...I shall have someone take you to the box.." She said as she looked around and then plucked somepony who was walking along with a plate of cookies she was looking forward to devour but they flew into the air as she was yoinked over. "You..yes you..take these fine ponies to broken lights box."
The mare wrinkled her muzzle, saddened by the loss of her cookies. "Sigh, ahem, very well Miss Soliloquy, if you three would come with me." She gestured with a friendly smile. "My name is Prompter...I am a prompter...funny...heh...I wonder if mother knew this would be my fate...makes me glad I wasn't named Trash Collector or something hah..heh..right. ahem, sorry, just thinking aloud." She sheepishly smiled.
"S'alright Miss Prompter; m'folks named me Sandy Shores, but y'don't see me cleanin' up beaches." He smiled jovially as he trotted alongside her, happy to be of service. "Now then, what all seems t'be the trouble with the lights? Miss Soliloquy mentioned something about lights not respondin' to th' switches right. Have ya'll tested it out, or is it just happening all random-like?"
(Other ponies arriving at the park would likely see Soliloquy as the pony in charge with a little effort.)
Icy's Pad
"Gasp...its like you don't trust me..." Balboa dramatically swoon-sighed bringing his hoof to his head whilst bringing his drink with his other hoof to his mouth and sipping the cocoa. "Its as I said, I just want..." He face dropped into a somber expression, his eyes downcast. "To spend one holiday with my only kin and his loved ones, the way it should be. Sometimes I just tire of extravagant sunny vacations in the Bah-llamas, it only reminds me of how lonely I really am."
Behind Balboa, Astrid was playing the world's tiniest violin.
Icy just gave Balboa another eye-roll. "Please. If you wanted to spend time with us... you could have just... asked? Instead of barging into my home like you owned this place." Well, at least Icy wasn't actively freezing Balboa in his seat, so that was something.
Bridle Shores Park
Gearstride chuckled at Sandy's preparedness and gave him a friendly noogie. "What a Sandy-ism." She lopsidedly grinned.
"Very well...I shall have someone take you to the box.." She said as she looked around and then plucked somepony who was walking along with a plate of cookies she was looking forward to devour but they flew into the air as she was yoinked over. "You..yes you..take these fine ponies to broken lights box."
The mare wrinkled her muzzle, saddened by the loss of her cookies. "Sigh, ahem, very well Miss Soliloquy, if you three would come with me." She gestured with a friendly smile. "My name is Prompter...I am a prompter...funny...heh...I wonder if mother knew this would be my fate...makes me glad I wasn't named Trash Collector or something hah..heh..right. ahem, sorry, just thinking aloud." She sheepishly smiled.
"I heard worse names," Silverpine replied good-naturedly, following the mare along.
And so the three would likely fast forward to the bar where Staccata would do her best to not tell either of them of the seedy network of informants and ne'er-do-wells. That would be bad for the free exchange of information.
(Will be waiting for the other group to finish up before we continue.)
Kelvin360
2014-01-05, 04:06 AM
Blades laughed. "Hey, maybe they just need to learn to take it. Just 'cause some ponies 'n griffons killed each other doesn't mean we can't be friends, right? I mean, I don't start hatin' a pony just 'cause they've killed one or two other ponies. Everypony kills now 'n then... Well, 'cept for 'Vadraa, I think."
"I'm pretty sure the only two ponies we know who have never killed anypony with malicious intent are in this room and share the same body."
"Um...you...?" Starbeam doesn't seem like she can finish that sentence without exploding from the discomfort she's already projecting in excess.
"Tell you later. Anyway, it depends on how important the dead are or maybe even how they died. But while they're generally warlike, Griffs don't strike me as the type to get worked up too bad over a war. So I guess it's a toss-up."
You've never killed anypony??
Oh come now, are you still hung up on the theory that I am a complete psychopath? I'll have you know that I only lost some of my sanity over the years.
"Good thinking. It surprises me that you would have such concern for the well-being of possible criminals, but any pony has their rights. Besides, better prison conditions could help reduce the number of ponies resisting arrest."
"The way I see it, the law is there to keep ponies safe and comfortable. So where you end up when you break it should remind you of that, not give you a reason to hate on the system."
Blueshield got a thoughtful look. "That must have been why your country was training foals from birth in combat. Had I been in my current position then, I may have assisted in your uprising, assuming I was not too occupied with juvenile bandits."
"Wait, really? That was a thing? I figured only my family was super paranoid like that."
Benson
2014-01-06, 04:40 AM
Icy's Place
"Better to ask forgiveness then to ask permission eh?" Balboa faked a sheepish smile. "But seriously...you and I both know that initial asking just wasn't going to be a working thing, we're both smart enough to know that my dear." The stallion faintly smiled and sipped his cocoa.
"As for Fox....well....sometimes intelligence can take a back seat hahah." He ribbed his slack jawed son and winked. Fox's eye briefly twitched as he began to regain his senses.
"You're not serious about this right? You really think I want to spend my Hearthswarming Day with you?" Fox managed to ask, his tone dripping with hostility.
"Yes."
===
Bridle Shores Park
Prompter stiffly smiled and softly sighed. "Yea...we did test it all but nothing is corresponding to the switches and buttons pushed. Trying to turn on the spot light had the spotlight light casting colorful disco lighting...why..I don't even...ack." She would lead them to behind the stage where just all sorts of wires were running this way and that. It was typical in backstage appearance, just outdoors and with a canvas stretched high above at same height as the height of the actual stage. She took them to a panel that resembled a fuse box with wires running above it against the post it was set upon.
At this point, for Silverpine at least, he would have took noticed that Gearstride wasn't with them. Probably walked off into the scurrying crowd of ponies bustling about.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-06, 11:07 PM
Bridle Shores Park
Prompter stiffly smiled and softly sighed. "Yea...we did test it all but nothing is corresponding to the switches and buttons pushed. Trying to turn on the spot light had the spotlight light casting colorful disco lighting...why..I don't even...ack." She would lead them to behind the stage where just all sorts of wires were running this way and that. It was typical in backstage appearance, just outdoors and with a canvas stretched high above at same height as the height of the actual stage. She took them to a panel that resembled a fuse box with wires running above it against the post it was set upon.
Sandy gave a low whistle as they approached the contraption somepony once called a fuse box. "Land's sakes alive, you're lucky th' lights are even turnin' on. How long's it been since anypony tinkered with this old mess?" As he chatted, he dug out his screwdriver and went to work on removing the front panel. "Easy does it, old miss. Just gonna take a look see under your hood...there's gotta a first time for everythin', y'know. Don't get too shocked on me, alright?" he muttered to the fuse box.
HalfTangible
2014-01-07, 12:19 AM
Esmeralda appeared to be enjoying the massage very much. :smalltongue: "Ooooh, yessssss.... Right there," she hissed, closing her eyes.
Presumably they did something else at some point. :smallamused::smalltongue:
Icy's Place
"Better to ask forgiveness then to ask permission eh?" Balboa faked a sheepish smile. "But seriously...you and I both know that initial asking just wasn't going to be a working thing, we're both smart enough to know that my dear." The stallion faintly smiled and sipped his cocoa.
"As for Fox....well....sometimes intelligence can take a back seat hahah." He ribbed his slack jawed son and winked. Fox's eye briefly twitched as he began to regain his senses.
"You're not serious about this right? You really think I want to spend my Hearths Warming Day with you?" Fox managed to ask, his tone dripping with hostility.
"Yes."
Icy eyed the older stallion uncertainly, biting her lip. "Well..." Then she looked to Fox helplessly. "He seems sincere enough... for his standards."
Bridle Shores Park[/B]
Prompter stiffly smiled and softly sighed. "Yea...we did test it all but nothing is corresponding to the switches and buttons pushed. Trying to turn on the spot light had the spotlight light casting colorful disco lighting...why..I don't even...ack." She would lead them to behind the stage where just all sorts of wires were running this way and that. It was typical in backstage appearance, just outdoors and with a canvas stretched high above at same height as the height of the actual stage. She took them to a panel that resembled a fuse box with wires running above it against the post it was set upon.
At this point, for Silverpine at least, he would have took noticed that Gearstride wasn't with them. Probably walked off into the scurrying crowd of ponies bustling about.
Silverpine indeed noticed, as the Captain suddenly made herself conspicuous by her absence. "Mr Shores, stay here while I go and retrieve the Captain," he told the engineer, before disappearing into the crowds as well, in search of a certain xanadu pony and possibly saving the set from an unnecessary disaster. :smalltongue:
Presumably they did something else at some point. :smallamused::smalltongue:
Highly likely. :smalltongue: Though at this point, it might be better to cut to a few hours ahead where they finally got back to making a new round of hot chocolate and possibly contemplating dinner.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-07, 04:13 AM
"I'm pretty sure the only two ponies we know who have never killed anypony with malicious intent are in this room and share the same body."
"Um...you...?" Starbeam doesn't seem like she can finish that sentence without exploding from the discomfort she's already projecting in excess.
"Tell you later. Anyway, it depends on how important the dead are or maybe even how they died. But while they're generally warlike, Griffs don't strike me as the type to get worked up too bad over a war. So I guess it's a toss-up."
"Ya'd think we'd know if any big important griffs got killed, wouldn't we? If they cared that much, that is."
Blades put away a finished firework. "Well, one thing's for sure: Havin' 'em killin' ponies 'cause ponies kill 'em 'n havin' ponies kill 'em cause they kill ponies just doesn't end. Revenge just recurses!"
"The way I see it, the law is there to keep ponies safe and comfortable. So where you end up when you break it should remind you of that, not give you a reason to hate on the system."
Blueshield nodded. "Indeed. Although some ponies refuse to accept it, laws do not exist with the intent to punish. They exist to protect. We should not be making enemies with lawbreakers, as it only encourages them."
Come to think of it, this was probably where I went wrong with Night Jewel.
"Wait, really? That was a thing? I figured only my family was super paranoid like that."
"Like you wouldn't believe. There were, in descending order of sensibility, those who wanted their offspring protected, those who wanted as many rebels to fight Iron Hoof as possible, and those who had a fanatical devotion to their 'warrior's heritage'." Blueshield shook her head. "Many of these young fighters weren't taught responsibility. Such a perfect recipe for militaristic thugs."
[Meanwhile]
"That wasn't very respectful, was it?" Night Jewel shook her head, disappointed at how her offer of help had been so rudely ignored.
After a few moments, she came up with a way to turn this to her advantage. A few moments after that, she realized a critical flaw in that idea as well: She was working with paladins.
"...Would you three mind if I went backstage to look on my own? I promise I'll just look around and help out."
Benson
2014-01-07, 12:48 PM
Icy's Pad
"See Fox my boy, your beautiful, smart, gal here believes me, well sorta, anyways, you don't have to spend the whole day..together...I just want to spend a little with my son and his loved ones." Balboa said as he employed puppy dog eyes in which Fox's face contorted as he let out an 'eeegh'.
"Sir, may I suggest the gifts," Astrid whispered from behind, edging the big sack Balboa was carrying towards him.
"Oh right!..Yes..yes...ahem...if you'll accept them, I have gifts for the...two and a half of you," He winked briefly looking at Icy's belly.
================
================
The Park of-
"Last year's Hearthswarming pageant?" Prompter replied sheepishly with a little visible blush and made a bashful squeak. "Its not so bad is it?..." It was.
Prompter then blinked in surprise at Night Jewel and puffed her cheeks for a moment. "Oh...uh...I'm sorry....I didn't notice your presence there heh..uhm...sorry..Uhm...are you with him?" She gestured to Sandy who would be gifted with a spark from that herp derp contraction they called a Light box. Zap!
----
It wouldn't take long for Silverpine to find Gearstride, near the crafts service table, munching on cookies and engaging happily in conversation with some ponies.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-07, 01:58 PM
"Last year's Hearthswarming pageant?" Prompter replied sheepishly with a little visible blush and made a bashful squeak. "Its not so bad is it?..." It was.
Sandy's whole face softened and melted away with a warming smile. "Aw, don't you worry about it none, Miss Prompter. I'll have her fixed up an' behavin' right in time for th' pageant." He drew a cross over his little uniformed chest and tapped his badge. "Cirrus' honor, I will."
His vow made, Sandy returned his attention to the front panel and its frozen, half-rusted screws.
Silverpine indeed noticed, as the Captain suddenly made herself conspicuous by her absence. "Mr Shores, stay here while I go and retrieve the Captain," he told the engineer, before disappearing into the crowds as well, in search of a certain xanadu pony and possibly saving the set from an unnecessary disaster. :smalltongue:
Sandy nodded distractedly, already fixated on the challenging mass of wires and metal before him. "Aye-aye, Silverpine sir. I'll be right here if y'need me." He grunted, his horn aching as his TK'd screwdriver failed to budge the stubborn screws. What law of physics dictated that all old electronics be old, cantankerous beasties? Rearing up, he leveraged his whole weight on the screwdriver. He felt the screw jerk, then start to budge...
Prompter then blinked in surprise at Night Jewel and puffed her cheeks for a moment. "Oh...uh...I'm sorry....I didn't notice your presence there heh..uhm...sorry..Uhm...are you with him?" She gestured to Sandy who would be gifted with a spark from that herp derp contraction they called a Light box. Zap!
(My mental mapping of this scene has Sandy over by the fuse box, with Prompter and Night Jewel talking a few paces away.)
...and then reward his efforts with a sharp spark.
Sandy yelped and gingerly sucked on his lightly crisped hoof. "Nghhh...you're a real biter, ain't you? You best just simmer yourself down now; today's not a day t'be givin' lip." He carefully TK'd the screwdriver back into place, mindful of any more errant sparks.
To Night Jewel, it would seem that this particular theater troupe had employed a thin, dorky-looking colt about her age as their electrician. :smalltongue:
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-07, 03:16 PM
Prompter then blinked in surprise at Night Jewel and puffed her cheeks for a moment. "Oh...uh...I'm sorry....I didn't notice your presence there heh..uhm...sorry..Uhm...are you with him?" She gestured to Sandy who would be gifted with a spark from that herp derp contraction they called a Light box. Zap!
"Oh!" Night Jewel took a moment to think of a not-untruthful way to say the right thing, then smiled. "Well, you could say that. We both work for the same pony." She made sure not to mention that "working for the same pony" meant making things for her and not actually being a member of the crew. "We've got some similar skills."
She stepped closer to Sandy and waved at him. "Hey, cutie! Need a hoof? Maybe a bit of oil to loosen up the rusty bits?"
Kelvin360
2014-01-07, 06:31 PM
"Ya'd think we'd know if any big important griffs got killed, wouldn't we? If they cared that much, that is."
Blades put away a finished firework. "Well, one thing's for sure: Havin' 'em killin' ponies 'cause ponies kill 'em 'n havin' ponies kill 'em cause they kill ponies just doesn't end. Revenge just recurses!"
"So, what, cut it out entirely? Revenge is like, one of three reasons anything gets done."
"Four. Revenge, incentive, power and love."
"Did you really turn The Artisan's Blade into a romance novel?"
"Did you really turn it into a political encyclopedia?"
"Well I don't know about important figures, but I assume the griffons don't want war with us no matter what we do. They're not prosperous enough after last time."
Blueshield nodded. "Indeed. Although some ponies refuse to accept it, laws do not exist with the intent to punish. They exist to protect. We should not be making enemies with lawbreakers, as it only encourages them."
"I wouldn't say it encourages them so much as drains their resolve. I mean, if you've got a choice between a cave and a lake, but the cave is on fire, you'll go for the lake, even though you'll drown eventually. And if you think there's nothing the right side of the law could possibly offer you, or that road's been stripped entirely, well, what's the point of trying?"
[COLOR="Blue"]"Like you wouldn't believe. There were, in descending order of sensibility, those who wanted their offspring protected, those who wanted as many rebels to fight Iron Hoof as possible, and those who had a fanatical devotion to their 'warrior's heritage'." Blueshield shook her head. "Many of these young fighters weren't taught responsibility. Such a perfect recipe for militaristic thugs."
"And here I thought most of the stories about the Summer were hyperbole. How'd you guys find out about it? Did it lash back on to your territory?"
[Meanwhile]
"That wasn't very respectful, was it?" Night Jewel shook her head, disappointed at how her offer of help had been so rudely ignored.
After a few moments, she came up with a way to turn this to her advantage. A few moments after that, she realized a critical flaw in that idea as well: She was working with paladins.
"...Would you three mind if I went backstage to look on my own? I promise I'll just look around and help out."
"Where you walk isn't quite up to us, I'd say." The cleric remarks.
"I'm sure they don't mean for you to take any offense, though." The monk assures her. "From what I gather, they're under some stress."
"If all else fails, I can glow and shout to get their attention for you." The paladin says, injecting just enough irony into his tone to make the statement a joke.
Lycan 01
2014-01-08, 02:54 AM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose doesn't seem to have much to add to all this talk of the Summer and rebels and other unsavory things. In fact, he seems to have a faint frown on his face, his gaze distant as he stares up at the passing clouds, as if lost in thought or purposefully ignoring the current discussion. There's probably not much he can add, anyway. Either due to classified intel, or because he simply doesn't like to share such things.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-08, 04:09 AM
"So, what, cut it out entirely? Revenge is like, one of three reasons anything gets done."
"Four. Revenge, incentive, power and love."
"Did you really turn The Artisan's Blade into a romance novel?"
"Did you really turn it into a political encyclopedia?"
"Well I don't know about important figures, but I assume the griffons don't want war with us no matter what we do. They're not prosperous enough after last time."
Blades looked confused. "Aren't revenge 'n power 'n love all sort of incentives? So they kind of overlap with that bit..."
"And so is obligation." A familiar brown unicorn stepped into the shoppe, carrying some kind of box with her.
"Oh! Flare's back! What happened out there?"
"I did not have some epiphany about holiday spirit or anything, if that is what you wish to know." Flare shook her head. "All I managed to do was purchase something that might be of interest to you."
"I wouldn't say it encourages them so much as drains their resolve. I mean, if you've got a choice between a cave and a lake, but the cave is on fire, you'll go for the lake, even though you'll drown eventually. And if you think there's nothing the right side of the law could possibly offer you, or that road's been stripped entirely, well, what's the point of trying?"
"If that's the case, the crime rates among seaponies must be tremendous."
Blueshield paused for a moment to see the reaction, then carried on. "In all seriousness, I understand. It is necessary to make sure there are alternatives to an unlawful life presented. However, we must still make sure those who choose crime regret it. The difficulty comes with the distinction."
"And here I thought most of the stories about the Summer were hyperbole. How'd you guys find out about it? Did it lash back on to your territory?"
Blueshield nodded "It is my recollection that I made a reference to juvenile bandits. The warrior fillies and colts from your land sought glory, power and wealth via assault upon our caravans. According to my father, it took the entire Knight force to terminate their activities.
"Fortunately, the main troublesome youngster I have had to deal with is not a violent one. There may be progress in the world."
Prose doesn't seem to have much to add to all this talk of the Summer and rebels and other unsavory things. In fact, he seems to have a faint frown on his face, his gaze distant as he stares up at the passing clouds, as if lost in thought or purposefully ignoring the current discussion. There's probably not much he can add, anyway. Either due to classified intel, or because he simply doesn't like to share such things.
"...Mr. Prose, are you distressed?"
"Where you walk isn't quite up to us, I'd say." The cleric remarks.
"I'm sure they don't mean for you to take any offense, though." The monk assures her. "From what I gather, they're under some stress."
"If all else fails, I can glow and shout to get their attention for you." The paladin says, injecting just enough irony into his tone to make the statement a joke.
Night Jewel turned back briefly. "Don't worry, it's sorted out. I guess I'm just so good at avoiding attention that I forget how to draw it." She laughed and waved. "I'll see you when I'm done! Don't eat all the food while I'm busy, okay?"
Icy's Pad
"See Fox my boy, your beautiful, smart, gal here believes me, well sorta, anyways, you don't have to spend the whole day..together...I just want to spend a little with my son and his loved ones." Balboa said as he employed puppy dog eyes in which Fox's face contorted as he let out an 'eeegh'.
"Sir, may I suggest the gifts," Astrid whispered from behind, edging the big sack Balboa was carrying towards him.
"Oh right!..Yes..yes...ahem...if you'll accept them, I have gifts for the...two and a half of you," He winked briefly looking at Icy's belly.
"Well... I guess no harm seeing what your father brought us," Icy said, sidling towards Fox to lean against him. Hopefully it might calm him down a little.
The Park of-
"Last year's Hearthswarming pageant?" Prompter replied sheepishly with a little visible blush and made a bashful squeak. "Its not so bad is it?..." It was.
Prompter then blinked in surprise at Night Jewel and puffed her cheeks for a moment. "Oh...uh...I'm sorry....I didn't notice your presence there heh..uhm...sorry..Uhm...are you with him?" She gestured to Sandy who would be gifted with a spark from that herp derp contraction they called a Light box. Zap!
----
It wouldn't take long for Silverpine to find Gearstride, near the crafts service table, munching on cookies and engaging happily in conversation with some ponies.
"Oh there you are, Captain. For a moment there, we thought we lost you," Silverpine called, trotting towards Gear and whoever she was conversing with. "Good day to you. Name's Silverpine," he said in way of greeting.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-08, 09:25 PM
"Oh!" Night Jewel took a moment to think of a not-untruthful way to say the right thing, then smiled. "Well, you could say that. We both work for the same pony." She made sure not to mention that "working for the same pony" meant making things for her and not actually being a member of the crew. "We've got some similar skills."
She stepped closer to Sandy and waved at him. "Hey, cutie! Need a hoof? Maybe a bit of oil to loosen up the rusty bits?"
Sandy's screwdriver made a high-pitched screech as it scraped across the metal panel, suddenly loose of its purchase. "Whu-bluh?" The little stallion looked blankly at the little filly, then checked behind him to see who she was talking to. "M-me?" He pointed to himself incredulously.
Somewhere, a disconnect in the universe had inspired this young filly to refer to him as "cutie", instead of "Mister", "Sandy", or "hey chumpface." The whole of Sandy's mental prowess threw itself upon this problem, leaving his social faculties hopelessly understaffed. "What? I...uh, oil loosens up stucks...yes?" Behind him, the screwdriver tapped and spun away a good few inches away from its intended target. "Helpful? Yes?"
An incredibly effective confusion tactic. Although Night Jewel might note that this colt's voice sounded a hair lower than she'd imagined...
Kelvin360
2014-01-08, 11:08 PM
Blades looked confused. "Aren't revenge 'n power 'n love all sort of incentives? So they kind of overlap with that bit..."
"In this context, incentive just means an offer you can't refuse. Or 'an offer you can't refuse'. Also, the metaphor is from a fairy tail."
"...Do they have tails? And why-?"
"And so is obligation." A familiar brown unicorn stepped into the shoppe, carrying some kind of box with her.
"Oh! Flare's back! What happened out there?"
"I did not have some epiphany about holiday spirit or anything, if that is what you wish to know." Flare shook her head. "All I managed to do was purchase something that might be of interest to you."
"About time somepony put their hoof town on Hearth's Warming. No hearts growing three sizes or any of that. Rock on, Terra."
"Well, somepony can take time to think without deciding on anything, or changing what they think. That's fine. Did you have a nice time while you were out?"
"If that's the case, the crime rates among seaponies must be tremendous."
"Geez, I hope not. That'd make all of my brothers hardened criminals. I'd rather have a holdout."
Blueshield nodded "It is my recollection that I made a reference to juvenile bandits. The warrior fillies and colts from your land sought glory, power and wealth via assault upon our caravans. According to my father, it took the entire Knight force to terminate their activities.
"Fortunately, the main troublesome youngster I have had to deal with is not a violent one. There may be progress in the world."
"Part of me wants to say something patriotic about Equestria churning out great bandits, but...it's hard to really put humor into something so awful. I guess an 'I'm sorry' from me doesn't really cover that, huh?"
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose doesn't seem to have much to add to all this talk of the Summer and rebels and other unsavory things. In fact, he seems to have a faint frown on his face, his gaze distant as he stares up at the passing clouds, as if lost in thought or purposefully ignoring the current discussion. There's probably not much he can add, anyway. Either due to classified intel, or because he simply doesn't like to share such things.
"...Mr. Prose, are you distressed?"
"Cadance in blue." Snowstorm mutters. "I'm sorry, Prose. I know that topic can bring back some bad memories for the 'Bolts..."
Night Jewel turned back briefly. "Don't worry, it's sorted out. I guess I'm just so good at avoiding attention that I forget how to draw it." She laughed and waved. "I'll see you when I'm done! Don't eat all the food while I'm busy, okay?"
The trio return the wave farewell, Dawn somewhat awkwardly.
Silver turns a bit and pokes Taylor in the side. "I'll have to contradict her, actually. You need to eat more."
He laughs and mocks batting away her hoof. "Hey, now. I subsist on sunrays, remember? Also, mind over matter and all that. I haven't overdone on the healing enough today to need too many calories." He pauses at her unconvinced expression. "...Then again, I could use a sandwich. And perhaps a drink."
They trot back off into town, while Dawnstrider remains behind to do what comes naturally. Patrol the area.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-09, 01:05 AM
"In this context, incentive just means an offer you can't refuse. Or 'an offer you can't refuse'. Also, the metaphor is from a fairy tail."
"...Do they have tails? And why-?"
Elsewhere, Ciona sneezed, causing her to sprout several extra tails.
~
"Right. Maybe find a better word for it?"
"About time somepony put their hoof town on Hearth's Warming. No hearts growing three sizes or any of that. Rock on, Terra."
"Well, somepony can take time to think without deciding on anything, or changing what they think. That's fine. Did you have a nice time while you were out?"
"Wouldn't a pony's heart increasing in size significantly cause health compli-"
"Not litrally, Flare!"
"Right. Not literal."
Flare had to think about how to answer Arvadraa's question. "It was not exciting. To be in the snow again was... strangely relaxing, but I was not entertained through most of it."
"Geez, I hope not. That'd make all of my brothers hardened criminals. I'd rather have a holdout."
Blueshield raised an eyebrow. "You have seapony brothers?"
"Part of me wants to say something patriotic about Equestria churning out great bandits, but...it's hard to really put humor into something so awful. I guess an 'I'm sorry' from me doesn't really cover that, huh?"
"I do not expect you to apologize. The incident in question was never within your ability to influence. What you can do is ensure that such incidents never happen again."
Sandy's screwdriver made a high-pitched screech as it scraped across the metal panel, suddenly loose of its purchase. "Whu-bluh?" The little stallion looked blankly at the little filly, then checked behind him to see who she was talking to. "M-me?" He pointed to himself incredulously.
Somewhere, a disconnect in the universe had inspired this young filly to refer to him as "cutie", instead of "Mister", "Sandy", or "hey chumpface." The whole of Sandy's mental prowess threw itself upon this problem, leaving his social faculties hopelessly understaffed. "What? I...uh, oil loosens up stucks...yes?" Behind him, the screwdriver tapped and spun away a good few inches away from its intended target. "Helpful? Yes?"
An incredibly effective confusion tactic. Although Night Jewel might note that this colt's voice sounded a hair lower than she'd imagined...
"Easily shocked, Sandy? You might want to be careful with the device, then." Night Jewel chuckled. This was getting fun already.
She stepped forward, retrieved a small container of oil from her mane, and began carefully applying it to the rusty parts. A few sparks singed her hooves as she did so..
"Ow! Say, is there a way to turn this thing's power off for a bit? It's easier to work with electrical stuff when it's not zapping you all the time."
Lycan 01
2014-01-10, 09:52 AM
[Clouds Over Bridle Shores]
"...Mr. Prose, are you distressed?"
"Cadance in blue." Snowstorm mutters. "I'm sorry, Prose. I know that topic can bring back some bad memories for the 'Bolts..."
The batpony tilts his head a bit to the two mares, and gives a small, aloof shrug. "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori," Prose observes with poetic thoughtfulness, before cracking a small, wry smile. "Granted, none of my unit would have mori'd for our patria thanks to a few idiot marauders with no real training, even if they did have vastly superior numbers." He quips, before pausing to ponder a moment.
"Of course, it's a moot point, since those frumpy nobles in Canterlot would pitch a fit over such a 'waste of valuable military resources' if Shadowbolts were used against 'common thugs,' regardless of the actual threat they posed to the citizens of our great nation or our allies. So because of political idiocy, my squadron was never sent to purge a stronghold of rag-tag bandits, or to assassinate their leaders and throw them into disarray, or to do recon and leak strategic intel on marauder activities to, say, the Saddle Arabians for their benefit."
His smile fades into a faint, sly smirk. "Officially, at least."
Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori
"It is sweet and fitting to die for your country."
Benson
2014-01-10, 01:38 PM
Icy's Place
Balboa flashed Icy a warm smile. "Well ahem..." He nodded at Astrid who began to dig around the bag and pulled out a small white jewelery box and hoofed it over to Icy. She then dug around and pulled out a a yellow envelope and pushed it over to Fox.
Fox quirked a brow and opened up the envelope as his eyes bulged a little after reading a paper from it. "Bhwuh..wha...a..two weeks all paid expense vacation in the Bahllamas?...Wait...honeymoon vacation?"
"Yes, honeymoon. You do plan on making an honest mare out of her don't you son? Considering..." Balboa raised a brow and glanced at Icy's belly. "Ooh, also, I will bequeath use of my private airship yacht during your vacation, state of the art in luxury." He nodded.
Fox turned to Icy and flushed and sputtered and generally sported a derp expression.
====
The Park
"Sorry...got distracted..plus..didn't think I was neccessary with the whole light box bit hehe...mmm...here babe, try these cookies...they are diviiine~" Gearstride grinned and picked up a cookie with her teeth and gave it to Silverpine with a wink. The other ponies around smiled and greeted Silverpine, ignoring Gearstride's flirtations with the silver and orange stallion.
----
"Eeek..ah..sorry....I should have taken care of that before-hoof.." Prompter sheepishly smiled and flipped off the small switch on the side of the light-panel box.
Kelvin360
2014-01-10, 08:52 PM
Elsewhere, Ciona sneezed, causing her to sprout several extra tails.
~
"Right. Maybe find a better word for it?"
"Yeah, and then we can track down the author, pull royalties."
"Bearing in mind that Helping Hoof is an actual spy and assassin..."
"Really? That's so cool!"
"Hm. Mmhmm. Apparently the word is correct, it's just one of those words with...'relatively inscrutable context'. Uhm, 'encouragement', maybe?"
"Wouldn't a pony's heart increasing in size significantly cause health compli-"
"Not litrally, Flare!"
"Right. Not literal."
Flare had to think about how to answer Arvadraa's question. "It was not exciting. To be in the snow again was... strangely relaxing, but I was not entertained through most of it."
"What does excite you, anyway? Poetry, theater, chess, muffins? Everypony needs a hobby."
"A hobby aside from fantasizing about fighting everything, since this is Stellar talking."
"That's my day job, not my hobby."
Blueshield raised an eyebrow. "You have seapony brothers?"
"Just one. He was raised by dolphins, though." She pauses. "Yeah, my family is weird."
"I do not expect you to apologize. The incident in question was never within your ability to influence. What you can do is ensure that such incidents never happen again."
"I'll put a hoof in if another war starts to break out, sure."
[Clouds Over Bridle Shores]
The batpony tilts his head a bit to the two mares, and gives a small, aloof shrug. "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori," Prose observes with poetic thoughtfulness, before cracking a small, wry smile. "Granted, none of my unit would have mori'd for our patria thanks to a few idiot marauders with no real training, even if they did have vastly superior numbers." He quips, before pausing to ponder a moment.
"Of course, it's a moot point, since those frumpy nobles in Canterlot would pitch a fit over such a 'waste of valuable military resources' if Shadowbolts were used against 'common thugs,' regardless of the actual threat they posed to the citizens of our great nation or our allies. So because of political idiocy, my squadron was never sent to purge a stronghold of rag-tag bandits, or to assassinate their leaders and throw them into disarray, or to do recon and leak strategic intel on marauder activities to, say, the Saddle Arabians for their benefit."
His smile fades into a faint, sly smirk. "Officially, at least."
"Someone should tell said frumpy nobles that helping ponies in a crisis is never a waste. In fact, I'm sure somepony did. Off the record, maybe."
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-10, 09:03 PM
"Easily shocked, Sandy? You might want to be careful with the device, then." Night Jewel chuckled. This was getting fun already.
She stepped forward, retrieved a small container of oil from her mane, and began carefully applying it to the rusty parts. A few sparks singed her hooves as she did so..
"Ow! Say, is there a way to turn this thing's power off for a bit? It's easier to work with electrical stuff when it's not zapping you all the time."
"Eeek..ah..sorry....I should have taken care of that before-hoof.." Prompter sheepishly smiled and flipped off the small switch on the side of the light-panel box.
Fact: This strange filly was lending a helping hoof.
Fact: This strange filly prevented (some) of the inevitable shocks coming his way.
Conclusion: Maintain holding pattern. Continue with task at hoof. Await the return of the 'ol brainpan.
"Right. Right. Thankee muchly." Sandy blankly recited to empty space between the two fillies. With stiff, mechanical movements, he manuevered the screwdriver in place and went to work on the rusted old screws. With the addition of Night Jewel's oil, the job went by quickly, and soon they'd reached the first moment of truth. "Ya'll might want t'up back...er, left to the right devices...clear the deck-battened-hatches...stand somewhere that ain't right here." Shaking off his twisted tongue, Sandy gingerly pried off the casing and lifted it free...
Icy's Place
Balboa flashed Icy a warm smile. "Well ahem..." He nodded at Astrid who began to dig around the bag and pulled out a small white jewelery box and hoofed it over to Icy. She then dug around and pulled out a a yellow envelope and pushed it over to Fox.
Fox quirked a brow and opened up the envelope as his eyes bulged a little after reading a paper from it. "Bhwuh..wha...a..two weeks all paid expense vacation in the Bahllamas?...Wait...honeymoon vacation?"
"Yes, honeymoon. You do plan on making an honest mare out of her don't you son? Considering..." Balboa raised a brow and glanced at Icy's belly. "Ooh, also, I will bequeath use of my private airship yacht during your vacation, state of the art in luxury." He nodded.
Fox turned to Icy and flushed and sputtered and generally sported a derp expression.
Icy could only offer a helpless shrug, though she shot Balboa a grateful smile. "That's.... quite generous of you, Mr Balboa. Considering the airship expense to the islands at this time of the year." She leaned in to give Fox a small kiss on the cheek and nuzzled. "Fox, dear. I think your father means well..."
Then, she remembered she had her own gift and opened it.
The Park
"Sorry...got distracted..plus..didn't think I was neccessary with the whole light box bit hehe...mmm...here babe, try these cookies...they are diviiine~" Gearstride grinned and picked up a cookie with her teeth and gave it to Silverpine with a wink. The other ponies around smiled and greeted Silverpine, ignoring Gearstride's flirtations with the silver and orange stallion.
"Huh, wha..." Silverpine accepted the cookie with widened eyes of surprise, blushing a little as he chewed and swallowed. "... they're good, Captain. Thanks."
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-11, 04:03 AM
"Yeah, and then we can track down the author, pull royalties."
"Bearing in mind that Helping Hoof is an actual spy and assassin..."
"Really? That's so cool!"
"Hm. Mmhmm. Apparently the word is correct, it's just one of those words with...'relatively inscrutable context'. Uhm, 'encouragement', maybe?"
"Better... Wait, an assassin? Are they good at it?"
"What does excite you, anyway? Poetry, theater, chess, muffins? Everypony needs a hobby."
"A hobby aside from fantasizing about fighting everything, since this is Stellar talking."
"That's my day job, not my hobby."
Blades got a strange gleam in her eyes, but said nothing.
"I am... unsure." Flare thought some more, than smiled. "But perhaps now is a good time to experiment. I should try to experience some of those things and see how they are."
"Well, I know one of 'em that ya'll get a chance to try!"
"Just one. He was raised by dolphins, though." She pauses. "Yeah, my family is weird."
Given what I know of dolphin psychology, it is probable that seaponies raised by dolphins would have stronger criminal inclinations than most other ponies.
"...Should I inquire as to the diversity of your heritage, or is it for the better if I remain uninformed?"
"I'll put a hoof in if another war starts to break out, sure."
"Good. No matter where you are from, your first duty is always to righteousness."
The batpony tilts his head a bit to the two mares, and gives a small, aloof shrug. "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori," Prose observes with poetic thoughtfulness, before cracking a small, wry smile. "Granted, none of my unit would have mori'd for our patria thanks to a few idiot marauders with no real training, even if they did have vastly superior numbers." He quips, before pausing to ponder a moment.
"Of course, it's a moot point, since those frumpy nobles in Canterlot would pitch a fit over such a 'waste of valuable military resources' if Shadowbolts were used against 'common thugs,' regardless of the actual threat they posed to the citizens of our great nation or our allies. So because of political idiocy, my squadron was never sent to purge a stronghold of rag-tag bandits, or to assassinate their leaders and throw them into disarray, or to do recon and leak strategic intel on marauder activities to, say, the Saddle Arabians for their benefit."
His smile fades into a faint, sly smirk. "Officially, at least."
"You are correct. They were young and reckless, so a concentrated effort against them early on could have dispersed them easily." Blueshield sighed. "So naturally, they were left alone to be dealt with 'later', rather than stopped before they became a threat. They were not treated as a serious issue, so they became one.
"Of course, I must question whether, had you and your companions been permitted to act against these crimes, you would be capable of harming a foal."
"Someone should tell said frumpy nobles that helping ponies in a crisis is never a waste. In fact, I'm sure somepony did. Off the record, maybe."
Blueshield nodded. "Had I the capability, I would provide the majority of the upper classes with a stern lecture on the importance of maintaining high quality of life for all ponies rather than merely power for themselves. It is only good fortune that the nobility of my homeland does not seem particularly interested in interfering with such affairs."
"Eeek..ah..sorry....I should have taken care of that before-hoof.." Prompter sheepishly smiled and flipped off the small switch on the side of the light-panel box.
"Ah, that's much better. Thanks."
Fact: This strange filly was lending a helping hoof.
Fact: This strange filly prevented (some) of the inevitable shocks coming his way.
Conclusion: Maintain holding pattern. Continue with task at hoof. Await the return of the 'ol brainpan.
"Right. Right. Thankee muchly." Sandy blankly recited to empty space between the two fillies. With stiff, mechanical movements, he manuevered the screwdriver in place and went to work on the rusted old screws. With the addition of Night Jewel's oil, the job went by quickly, and soon they'd reached the first moment of truth. "Ya'll might want t'up back...er, left to the right devices...clear the deck-battened-hatches...stand somewhere that ain't right here." Shaking off his twisted tongue, Sandy gingerly pried off the casing and lifted it free...
"You're welcome! So you think you can do this on your own, Sandy? This will be fun to watch."
Night Jewel stepped out of his way, although not too far back - if something went wrong, she wanted to be ready to step in again.
Lycan 01
2014-01-11, 11:08 AM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"You are correct. They were young and reckless, so a concentrated effort against them early on could have dispersed them easily." Blueshield sighed. "So naturally, they were left alone to be dealt with 'later', rather than stopped before they became a threat. They were not treated as a serious issue, so they became one.
"Of course, I must question whether, had you and your companions been permitted to act against these crimes, you would be capable of harming a foal."
Prose tilts his head slightly to give Blueshield a knowing look with his good eye, his expression a bit wry. "Ah, but I never said anything about foals. Ponies of all ages can turn to crime or unsavory activities under certain circumstances. And while the bandits your country had to deal with were on the younger spectrum, I can assure you, they don't represent the majority of the marauder spectrum. If I had to make a tactical assessment, I'd say the younger ones expanded outwards towards the frontiers and borders because of three reasons. One, less competition from older, more established bandits. Two, less organized resistance due to frontier towns being less established and fortified. And three, a youthful thirst for glory and adventure," he muses. "Meanwhile, back in the Equestrian heartland, we had the older, slightly better trained and equipped brigands to deal with."
He then smirks lazily. "As for my unit hurting foals, the answer is no. Well, as long as 'inflicting a permanent fear of the dark' doesn't count as hurting. Doesn't matter how many ponies they've robbed or how shiny that sword they have is, if a kid - and many an adult - thinks the night itself is out to get them, whatever courage they have snuffs out like a candle in a hurricane."
Blueshield nodded. "Had I the capability, I would provide the majority of the upper classes with a stern lecture on the importance of maintaining high quality of life for all ponies rather than merely power for themselves. It is only good fortune that the nobility of my homeland does not seem particularly interested in interfering with such affairs."
"Someone should tell said frumpy nobles that helping ponies in a crisis is never a waste. In fact, I'm sure somepony did. Off the record, maybe."
Purple Prose tilts his head back and laughs heartily. "Oh believe me, there were plenty of times where I had to refrain from saying or doing things to 'help' an aristocrat or two see reason and logic. But alas, I had to mollify myself with passive aggression and social swordplay. The benefits of being a communications expert is that it's very easy to turn words against ponies, and make a horrendous insult sound like a flowery compliment," the batpony says with a cheeky, fang-baring grin.
He then sighs. "Granted, that's part of why I had to retire. My comrades and Princess Luna may have enjoyed my linguistic wit, but the powers that be did not. And once the poncy aristocrats and nobles running the show decide they don't like you... well..." he shrugs. "Doesn't really matter how effective you are as a soldier and a leader in the field, when there's politics involved."
Kelvin360
2014-01-11, 02:23 PM
"Better... Wait, an assassin? Are they good at it?"
"Nopony really knows. But The Artisan's Blade is a story about a wrongfully imprisoned noble escaping and seeking bloody revenge in addition to being a thesis on the tenets of societal manipulation. The leading theory is that it's an autobiography. Personally, I'm inclined to believe it; certain events are too realistic and detailed to be entirely fictional."
Blades got a strange gleam in her eyes, but said nothing.
"I am... unsure." Flare thought some more, than smiled. "But perhaps now is a good time to experiment. I should try to experience some of those things and see how they are."
"Well, I know one of 'em that ya'll get a chance to try!"
"Take Brains with you. She needs to see way more of the world."
"Um, could I get away with a mention of how this is my home and I'm needless of anything else?"
"Cute, but nope."
"...Should I inquire as to the diversity of your heritage, or is it for the better if I remain uninformed?"
"My father would tell you that he has 'excellent interponitial charisma'. Us Spawn of Sunshine would just tell you he's gotten super good at playing a Castle-Nova card."
Blueshield nodded. "Had I the capability, I would provide the majority of the upper classes with a stern lecture on the importance of maintaining high quality of life for all ponies rather than merely power for themselves. It is only good fortune that the nobility of my homeland does not seem particularly interested in interfering with such affairs."
Purple Prose tilts his head back and laughs heartily. "Oh believe me, there were plenty of times where I had to refrain from saying or doing things to 'help' an aristocrat or two see reason and logic. But alas, I had to mollify myself with passive aggression and social swordplay. The benefits of being a communications expert is that it's very easy to turn words against ponies, and make a horrendous insult sound like a flowery compliment," the batpony says with a cheeky, fang-baring grin.
He then sighs. "Granted, that's part of why I had to retire. My comrades and Princess Luna may have enjoyed my linguistic wit, but the powers that be did not. And once the poncy aristocrats and nobles running the show decide they don't like you... well..." he shrugs. "Doesn't really matter how effective you are as a soldier and a leader in the field, when there's politics involved."
"I suppose this is the moment to advocate the adventuring setup. I don't think idiotic political machinations have gotten in the way of my job for a solid decade."
Benson
2014-01-12, 12:16 AM
"It seems more like he's trying to bribe me off..." Fox whispered, glancing at Balboa. Despite Fox's whispering, Balboa would have heard it anyway, but the older stallion said nothing in comment.
When Icy opened up the box she would come to see a silver and gold hoof bracelet with a series of beautiful marquise cut gems of if an ice blue color. Icy would recognize this as the Heart of Valhalla, or Ice Stone, a rare gem that was only found in the mountains of Valhalla. A gem thought to have been destroyed by Iron Hoove's strike against Valhalla. It held a novel property of being cold to the touch.
======
Dat Park
Gearstride smiled and nuzzled at her beau. "Them here's Mason, Rafter, and Purlin." Two stallions and a mare respectfully. "They helped built the stage, and a couple of the set pieces." Gearstride introduced as 'heys' were given in tow.
----
Sandy would easily remove the casing over the totally not a re-purposed fuse box. Sandy, along with Night Jewel and Prompter would see an odd looking fuzzy...black fuzz ball just nestled there in the corner inside.....
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-12, 03:30 AM
"Nopony really knows. But The Artisan's Blade is a story about a wrongfully imprisoned noble escaping and seeking bloody revenge in addition to being a thesis on the tenets of societal manipulation. The leading theory is that it's an autobiography. Personally, I'm inclined to believe it; certain events are too realistic and detailed to be entirely fictional."
"Seems like an intriguin' hypothsis. 'N some books are awful precise 'bout things that most ponies don't know 'bout, so maybe they're actually doin' that kind of thing!"
Flare flicked an ear. "Or they could have simply done their research. Does that still happen these days?"
"But that's not as fun! 'N 'round here, we get mostly what's excitin' over what's ordnary."
"Take Brains with you. She needs to see way more of the world."
"Um, could I get away with a mention of how this is my home and I'm needless of anything else?"
"Cute, but nope."
Blades laughed. "Ya know, we could all go together! A lil' bondin' 'sperience for all of us!"
"As much as a bondin' sperience- bonding experience might appeal, the small one has a point. It might be best if we allowed ourselves to be exposed to more influences."
"Well, we can't all be gettin' cooped up in here all the time. It gets borin'! What do ya say, girls? Shall we have a lil' outing?"
"My father would tell you that he has 'excellent interponitial charisma'. Us Spawn of Sunshine would just tell you he's gotten super good at playing a Castle-Nova card."
"Then I shall employ caution should I encounter him. I do not possess any desires to become a harem filly."
Prose tilts his head slightly to give Blueshield a knowing look with his good eye, his expression a bit wry. "Ah, but I never said anything about foals. Ponies of all ages can turn to crime or unsavory activities under certain circumstances. And while the bandits your country had to deal with were on the younger spectrum, I can assure you, they don't represent the majority of the marauder spectrum. If I had to make a tactical assessment, I'd say the younger ones expanded outwards towards the frontiers and borders because of three reasons. One, less competition from older, more established bandits. Two, less organized resistance due to frontier towns being less established and fortified. And three, a youthful thirst for glory and adventure," he muses. "Meanwhile, back in the Equestrian heartland, we had the older, slightly better trained and equipped brigands to deal with."
"A most astute assessment. Another factor may have been the number of attractive targets due to our more prodigious reliance on trade."
He then smirks lazily. "As for my unit hurting foals, the answer is no. Well, as long as 'inflicting a permanent fear of the dark' doesn't count as hurting. Doesn't matter how many ponies they've robbed or how shiny that sword they have is, if a kid - and many an adult - thinks the night itself is out to get them, whatever courage they have snuffs out like a candle in a hurricane."
Blueshield got a thoughtful look. "Fear... That could have been a way to disperse them. However, some ponies are too imbecilic to have fear, and some are too desperate to let it stop them."
Purple Prose tilts his head back and laughs heartily. "Oh believe me, there were plenty of times where I had to refrain from saying or doing things to 'help' an aristocrat or two see reason and logic. But alas, I had to mollify myself with passive aggression and social swordplay. The benefits of being a communications expert is that it's very easy to turn words against ponies, and make a horrendous insult sound like a flowery compliment," the batpony says with a cheeky, fang-baring grin.
He then sighs. "Granted, that's part of why I had to retire. My comrades and Princess Luna may have enjoyed my linguistic wit, but the powers that be did not. And once the poncy aristocrats and nobles running the show decide they don't like you... well..." he shrugs. "Doesn't really matter how effective you are as a soldier and a leader in the field, when there's politics involved."
Blueshield actually seemed to smile briefly. "There is exquisite gratification in denigrating conceited individuals in manners they cannot comprehend. Unfortunately, their reactions do tend toward the petty. Depriving a pony of their career out of spite is not exactly a quality I approve of."
"I suppose this is the moment to advocate the adventuring setup. I don't think idiotic political machinations have gotten in the way of my job for a solid decade."
"A life as a wandering mercenary? Tempting, but disconnecting from the system costs you influence over it."
HalfTangible
2014-01-12, 03:35 AM
Highly likely. :smalltongue: Though at this point, it might be better to cut to a few hours ahead where they finally got back to making a new round of hot chocolate and possibly contemplating dinner.
-And I kid you not, he asked 'so it's bad?' Lone Star facehoofed before setting down their mugs. I mean c'mon, he don't gotta tell ya it's bad when the bone is sticking out! Good news: his wing was fine. Bad news: the doctor's wasn't.
Kelvin360
2014-01-12, 05:40 AM
"Seems like an intriguin' hypothsis. 'N some books are awful precise 'bout things that most ponies don't know 'bout, so maybe they're actually doin' that kind of thing!"
Flare flicked an ear. "Or they could have simply done their research. Does that still happen these days?"
"But that's not as fun! 'N 'round here, we get mostly what's excitin' over what's ordnary."
"It's possible, but difficult. You can't simply walk into an assassin school and ask for tips. Well, wait. Actually, you technically can, it just requires a specific political leaning."
Blades laughed. "Ya know, we could all go together! A lil' bondin' 'sperience for all of us!"
"As much as a bondin' sperience- bonding experience might appeal, the small one has a point. It might be best if we allowed ourselves to be exposed to more influences."
"Well, we can't all be gettin' cooped up in here all the time. It gets borin'! What do ya say, girls? Shall we have a lil' outing?"
"We could split up, maybe. Get the best of both worlds. Brains and Terra get worldly, and you and me can party it up."
At that moment, Arvadraa and Starbeam exchange a series of rapid expressions before falling back to their standards. While brief, the gist of it is essentially:
Please don't let them burn down the town.
I'm not going to let them burn down the town.
"Can I come with you?" Her tone indicates she's prepared to present a ten-page essay on the whys of her decision, but isn't sure it's necessary yet.
"Then I shall employ caution should I encounter him. I do not possess any desires to become a harem filly."
"I might as well stick up for him. He's not forceful and he's monogamous. You don't have anything to worry about. Unless you actually decide to make a move. I don't recommend that one; he has this thing about accumulating enemies and dangerous circumstances and his love interests have the life expectancy of goldfish." The last sentence comes out sharper than a blade, like someone trying too hard to make it sound like the words aren't causing them pain.
"A life as a wandering mercenary? Tempting, but disconnecting from the system costs you influence over it."
"You don't need to influence it if you and the ones you deal with are outside of it, though. In the case of events that take place outside of civilization, a badge won't do you much good anyway. For those that do...does it matter so much where the help comes from, as long as it's there?"
Lycan 01
2014-01-12, 07:14 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"I suppose this is the moment to advocate the adventuring setup. I don't think idiotic political machinations have gotten in the way of my job for a solid decade."
Prose smirks wryly. "Perhaps. I'm not exactly tied down to this town, per se. And it always helps to have 'Inquisitorial backing' on misadventures," he winks.
"A most astute assessment. Another factor may have been the number of attractive targets due to our more prodigious reliance on trade."
Blueshield got a thoughtful look. "Fear... That could have been a way to disperse them. However, some ponies are too imbecilic to have fear, and some are too desperate to let it stop them."
The batpony shrugs. "In those cases, my non-lethal combat training comes in handy. A chokehold or well-placed kick can lay out many a combatant, especially those who don't know how to be a proper combatant."
Blueshield actually seemed to smile briefly. "There is exquisite gratification in denigrating conceited individuals in manners they cannot comprehend. Unfortunately, their reactions do tend toward the petty. Depriving a pony of their career out of spite is not exactly a quality I approve of."
Prose smirks slyly. "Ah, but who said they deprived me of my career entirely?" he asks with a mischievous little twinkle in his eye. "When a noble hears a Shadowbolt retired, they think that's the end of that. They don't bother to ask questions about what retirement for Shadowbolts actually entails..."
"A life as a wandering mercenary? Tempting, but disconnecting from the system costs you influence over it."
"You don't need to influence it if you and the ones you deal with are outside of it, though. In the case of events that take place outside of civilization, a badge won't do you much good anyway. For those that do...does it matter so much where the help comes from, as long as it's there?"
"Of course, it certain does help for an adventuring group to have some authority and powerful backing behind it. Or within it," Prose muses aloofly. "Once can operate outside a system and still draw power and influence from the system to aid in your operations. Assistance, intel, resources, so on and so forth."
-And I kid you not, he asked 'so it's bad?' Lone Star facehoofed before setting down their mugs. I mean c'mon, he don't gotta tell ya it's bad when the bone is sticking out! Good news: his wing was fine. Bad news: the doctor's wasn't.
Esmeralda giggled with the story, her indigo eyes twinkling with mirth. "Sounds like somepony just failed a critical common sense check," she said with glee. As soon as Lone Star set the mugs down, she lifted a mug into the air and started sipping carefully. After a few moments, she spoke again, this time in a more sombre tone, "Star. Do you ever have... I mean, have you ever thought of... hmm... have you ever stopped to reconsider our relationship?"
"It seems more like he's trying to bribe me off..." Fox whispered, glancing at Balboa. Despite Fox's whispering, Balboa would have heard it anyway, but the older stallion said nothing in comment.
When Icy opened up the box she would come to see a silver and gold hoof bracelet with a series of beautiful marquise cut gems of if an ice blue color. Icy would recognize this as the Heart of Valhalla, or Ice Stone, a rare gem that was only found in the mountains of Valhalla. A gem thought to have been destroyed by Iron Hoove's strike against Valhalla. It held a novel property of being cold to the touch.
Not only that. It was also prized as a magical ingredient in certain powerful spells. But that was a tale for another time.
As soon as Icy glimpsed the contents of the box, the trio could hear her breath catching in her throat, a hoof raised to cover her mouth as her own eyes widened with surprise and wonder. There she stared at the box wordlessly for several long moments. Then, without a word, she got to her hooves, and rushed over to Balbao to capture him in a great big hug, the box following along in midair. "... thank you..." she whispered softly.
Dat Park
Gearstride smiled and nuzzled at her beau. "Them here's Mason, Rafter, and Purlin." Two stallions and a mare respectfully. "They helped built the stage, and a couple of the set pieces." Gearstride introduced as 'heys' were given in tow.
Silverpine had to fake smoothing down his uniform to regain his composure, before nodding at the three. "Pleasure to meet y'all. I s'pose most of the work has already done?"
HalfTangible
2014-01-13, 12:07 PM
Esmeralda giggled with the story, her indigo eyes twinkling with mirth. "Sounds like somepony just failed a critical common sense check," she said with glee. As soon as Lone Star set the mugs down, she lifted a mug into the air and started sipping carefully. After a few moments, she spoke again, this time in a more sombre tone, "Star. Do you ever have... I mean, have you ever thought of... hmm... have you ever stopped to reconsider our relationship?"Lone Star stared at her for a few moments before tilting his head. ...I don't follow.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-13, 10:42 PM
Sandy would easily remove the casing over the totally not a re-purposed fuse box. Sandy, along with Night Jewel and Prompter would see an odd looking fuzzy...black fuzz ball just nestled there in the corner inside.....
Sandy thrust back the panel and winced as he felt...absolutely nothing. No storm of static electricity, no ancient curses sleeping in the panel awakened by their foalish tampering, no nothing. "Huh. Now that don't seem right..." He frowned and scratched his chin. Carefully, he hovered up a stick off the ground and lightly poked the fuzzball.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-13, 11:21 PM
"It's possible, but difficult. You can't simply walk into an assassin school and ask for tips. Well, wait. Actually, you technically can, it just requires a specific political leaning."
"That is assuming that there are no books published on the subject. I do not think there are many illiterate authors, so they could have read it from some book."
"Do assassins really just write their tips 'n tricks down in books?"
"If they do not, then this book was clearly not by an actual assassin anyway."
"We could split up, maybe. Get the best of both worlds. Brains and Terra get worldly, and you and me can party it up."
At that moment, Arvadraa and Starbeam exchange a series of rapid expressions before falling back to their standards. While brief, the gist of it is essentially:
Please don't let them burn down the town.
I'm not going to let them burn down the town.
"Can I come with you?" Her tone indicates she's prepared to present a ten-page essay on the whys of her decision, but isn't sure it's necessary yet.
Blades laughed. "Of course! I'm not keepin' ya from yar sister! Just as long as ya don't get too... well... magic-y in what ya're talkin' 'bout, okay?"
She then looked over Arvadraa carefully. "Make sure ya're warm enough, 'Vadraa! I don't want to find ya as an ice sculpture out there."
"If she needed warmth, I could draw up magma and-"
"If ya burn her, I'll make yar ribs into silverware."
"...Got it."
And so, after a bit of time for preparation, the two groups would go their separate ways.
"I might as well stick up for him. He's not forceful and he's monogamous. You don't have anything to worry about. Unless you actually decide to make a move. I don't recommend that one; he has this thing about accumulating enemies and dangerous circumstances and his love interests have the life expectancy of goldfish." The last sentence comes out sharper than a blade, like someone trying too hard to make it sound like the words aren't causing them pain.
"A dead harem, then. Unpleasant for both sides of the arrangement." Blueshield grimaced. "And he is still trying? After a time, one might expect a pony of such misfortune would either find an exception or give up upon realizing none exists."
The batpony shrugs. "In those cases, my non-lethal combat training comes in handy. A chokehold or well-placed kick can lay out many a combatant, especially those who don't know how to be a proper combatant."
Blueshield nodded. "Exquisite. It is always useful to have means of subduing instead of slaying. I often use sedatives or electrified bodkins for that purpose."
Prose smirks slyly. "Ah, but who said they deprived me of my career entirely?" he asks with a mischievous little twinkle in his eye. "When a noble hears a Shadowbolt retired, they think that's the end of that. They don't bother to ask questions about what retirement for Shadowbolts actually entails..."
"And what exactly does it entail?"
"You don't need to influence it if you and the ones you deal with are outside of it, though. In the case of events that take place outside of civilization, a badge won't do you much good anyway. For those that do...does it matter so much where the help comes from, as long as it's there?"
"Of course, it certain does help for an adventuring group to have some authority and powerful backing behind it. Or within it," Prose muses aloofly. "Once can operate outside a system and still draw power and influence from the system to aid in your operations. Assistance, intel, resources, so on and so forth."
"True. However, when it is necessary to correct issues within the system, you either work within the system to correct it or take it down and replace it with a new one. The former requires influence. The latter requires open revolt."
Sandy would easily remove the casing over the totally not a re-purposed fuse box. Sandy, along with Night Jewel and Prompter would see an odd looking fuzzy...black fuzz ball just nestled there in the corner inside.....
Night Jewel looked intrigued. "Wow! What is that thing? Is it alive? A lot of animals would die stuck inside this kind of thing, but if it were adaptable enough... I hope it's a rat. They're such nice creatures."
Sandy thrust back the panel and winced as he felt...absolutely nothing. No storm of static electricity, no ancient curses sleeping in the panel awakened by their foalish tampering, no nothing. "Huh. Now that don't seem right..." He frowned and scratched his chin. Carefully, he hovered up a stick off the ground and lightly poked the fuzzball.
"Careful! You don't want it to explode or something!"
Night Jewel chuckled a bit, then shook her head. "Oh well, carry on. That's pretty much what I wanted to do anyway."
Kelvin360
2014-01-14, 12:14 AM
Blades laughed. "Of course! I'm not keepin' ya from yar sister! Just as long as ya don't get too... well... magic-y in what ya're talkin' 'bout, okay?"
She then looked over Arvadraa carefully. "Make sure ya're warm enough, 'Vadraa! I don't want to find ya as an ice sculpture out there."
"If she needed warmth, I could draw up magma and-"
"If ya burn her, I'll make yar ribs into silverware."
"...Got it."
And so, after a bit of time for preparation, the two groups would go their separate ways.
"You don't have to worry." Arvadraa assures them. "According to Horne, the insulation my shadowskin provides should work on cold as well as heat. Whatever that means. I think it means snow won't give me hypothermia as easily. I wouldn't know."
As they part, Stellar decides to default to the opener that she finds the most interesting. "...What kind of silverware? I mean, I could see spoons, knives, maybe even forks, but could you pull plates, too? Ooh, or maybe a cutting board!"
Meanwhile, Arvadraa and Flare are joined by Seeker for their trip, the owl having picked up a miniature scarf at some point when we was wherever forgotten animal companions go. "It's nice, I think. The snow. I don't think I've ever seen it like this before. In the forest, it's mostly the aftereffects of whatever a weather team makes, so it's not as well-kept."
"A dead harem, then. Unpleasant for both sides of the arrangement." Blueshield grimaced. "And he is still trying? After a time, one might expect a pony of such misfortune would either find an exception or give up upon realizing none exists."
"He's gotten better. I think he even has a speech prepared. Something like an oath of service, but more along the lines of 'if you want to stay near me, know what you're getting into'. I just...I don't know. After all he's been through, I'd say he deserves to be happy. But life doesn't leave some of us alone, you know? I'd say he needs to work with what he knows he has, but none of us now can really offer that specific kind of companionship.
I'm getting off track, though. We're not exactly up here to listen to me whine about the universe supposedly conspiring against my dad."
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores] "Of course, it certain does help for an adventuring group to have some authority and powerful backing behind it. Or within it," Prose muses aloofly. "Once can operate outside a system and still draw power and influence from the system to aid in your operations. Assistance, intel, resources, so on and so forth."
"That makes sense. At the least it explains why Rigmund and Moonshine operate like that even when they complain about it so much."
"True. However, when it is necessary to correct issues within the system, you either work within the system to correct it or take it down and replace it with a new one. The former requires influence. The latter requires open revolt."
"I'd go so far as to say the real problem is that we're pretty much incapable of making a flawless balance between tyranny and anarchy. Most governments straddle a middle ground, but it's like a toss-up between which one you're most comfortable with."
Benson
2014-01-14, 12:33 PM
Icy's Pad
Balboa sported a startled look at the hug, something he did not account for. For all the things Balboa accounted for, with back up plan after back up plan throughout his life, a hug from this mare was not one of them. He didn't know what to do at first but then soon he just went with it and returned the hug. At the moment, Fox's face was frozen in herp derp confusion.
=====
The Bridle Shores Park
"Indeed mister....on a little short break right, afterwards do some final inspections, but I'm 100 percent sure in our craftmanship, why, with names like ours, its almost a guarantee in itself hahah." The stallion named Rafter chuckled.
"So, what are you folks doing here anyway? From what Miss Gearstride told us, yer part of some airship crew?" The mare, Purlin asked.
--
As Sandy touched the fuzzball, it suddenly shifted as hundreds upon hundreds of daddy longlegs scrambled in a mini explosion of scurrying!
"Eeek!" Prompter yelped and jumped backwards.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-14, 02:00 PM
Night Jewel looked intrigued. "Wow! What is that thing? Is it alive? A lot of animals would die stuck inside this kind of thing, but if it were adaptable enough... I hope it's a rat. They're such nice creatures."
"Careful! You don't want it to explode or something!"
Night Jewel chuckled a bit, then shook her head. "Oh well, carry on. That's pretty much what I wanted to do anyway."
"Wouldn't surprise me if it did..." Sandy muttered as he poked it one last time...
As Sandy touched the fuzzball, it suddenly shifted as hundreds upon hundreds of daddy longlegs scrambled in a mini explosion of scurrying!
"Eeek!" Prompter yelped and jumped backwards.
"Ack! Ain't a rat, it ain't a rat!" Sandy beat at the spidery horde with his stick, frantically trying to corral them away from the other ponies and towards the park proper. "Stay back! Everythin's under control!" he called to Night Jewel and Prompter, his magic kicking up some sand - secreted away in his pack, of course - to buffet the spiders.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-15, 03:21 AM
"You don't have to worry." Arvadraa assures them. "According to Horne, the insulation my shadowskin provides should work on cold as well as heat. Whatever that means. I think it means snow won't give me hypothermia as easily. I wouldn't know."
"Good. Just makin' sure. See ya!"
As they part, Stellar decides to default to the opener that she finds the most interesting. "...What kind of silverware? I mean, I could see spoons, knives, maybe even forks, but could you pull plates, too? Ooh, or maybe a cutting board!"
Blades put a hoof to her chin. "Depends. It's kind of harder to put more on bones than to carve off 'em, so ya've gotta work with their shapes if ya don't want to waste as much. For a lot of bones, ya get long, thin shapes, but skulls give rounder shapes like bowls or cups..."
Meanwhile, Arvadraa and Flare are joined by Seeker for their trip, the owl having picked up a miniature scarf at some point when we was wherever forgotten animal companions go. "It's nice, I think. The snow. I don't think I've ever seen it like this before. In the forest, it's mostly the aftereffects of whatever a weather team makes, so it's not as well-kept."
"I see. It must not have been pleasant having to live off of the leftovers of others even when it comes to weather. Still, you did get some snow, which is more than can be said of me." Flare chuckled a bit. "For some reason, weather does not happen much a thousand... some unit of distance... below the ground."
"He's gotten better. I think he even has a speech prepared. Something like an oath of service, but more along the lines of 'if you want to stay near me, know what you're getting into'. I just...I don't know. After all he's been through, I'd say he deserves to be happy. But life doesn't leave some of us alone, you know? I'd say he needs to work with what he knows he has, but none of us now can really offer that specific kind of companionship.
"Some ponies are simply not permitted to make the connections they desire." Blueshield sighed and shook her head. "It is difficult to make do with what you can get, but it is also a tragedy to keep reaching for the impossible."
I'm getting off track, though. We're not exactly up here to listen to me whine about the universe supposedly conspiring against my dad."
"If you would prefer, I could whinge about my own familial situation."
"I'd go so far as to say the real problem is that we're pretty much incapable of making a flawless balance between tyranny and anarchy. Most governments straddle a middle ground, but it's like a toss-up between which one you're most comfortable with."
"It is indeed impossible to achieve perfection, with all given power and punishment exactly as they deserve it. But we must always improve. Eventually, it is possible to achieve adequacy, if not flawlessness. Unfortunately, what is good enough for one pony is not good enough for all."
As Sandy touched the fuzzball, it suddenly shifted as hundreds upon hundreds of daddy longlegs scrambled in a mini explosion of scurrying!
"Eeek!" Prompter yelped and jumped backwards.
"Wouldn't surprise me if it did..." Sandy muttered as he poked it one last time...
"Ack! Ain't a rat, it ain't a rat!" Sandy beat at the spidery horde with his stick, frantically trying to corral them away from the other ponies and towards the park proper. "Stay back! Everythin's under control!" he called to Night Jewel and Prompter, his magic kicking up some sand - secreted away in his pack, of course - to buffet the spiders.
Night Jewel recoiled in alarm. "Yah! Well, at least it's not scorpions..."
After a moment to collect herself, she took out a pouch to try to catch as many stray technically-not-spiders as she could.
Lycan 01
2014-01-15, 12:38 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
"And what exactly does it entail?"
Purple Prose merely gives her a sly look, smirking a bit. "Sorry, that's classified."
He then leans back a bit, listening to the discussions of political systems and family situations. In regards to the latter, he merely gives an aloof shrug. "Eh, mine's boring."
Kelvin360
2014-01-15, 07:06 PM
Blades put a hoof to her chin. "Depends. It's kind of harder to put more on bones than to carve off 'em, so ya've gotta work with their shapes if ya don't want to waste as much. For a lot of bones, ya get long, thin shapes, but skulls give rounder shapes like bowls or cups..."
"Come to think of it, a pony skull is shaped kind of like a bellows, isn't it? Or is that a stretch?"
"If you're considering mausoleum chic - and I cringe as I say this - cutting smaller bones in half, replacing the marrow with wax, and connecting most with adhesive, plus a few chains, makes a surprisingly stable chandelier. Which, as we all know, doubles as a trap. Just...if you must be collecting bones, I suggest a graveyard. The margins aren't much, but it is less likely to end badly."
"Jeez, since when do you have a dark mind?"
"This isn't original. I once had a necromancer put me in a forcecage only to give me an hour-long speech about how gravedigging and interior decorating were closely interconnected."
"I see. It must not have been pleasant having to live off of the leftovers of others even when it comes to weather. Still, you did get some snow, which is more than can be said of me." Flare chuckled a bit. "For some reason, weather does not happen much a thousand... some unit of distance... below the ground."
Arvadraa frowns. "I'm sorry. I didn't want to remind you about that place. Some memories are better left in the past, too easy to dwell on. I've had to spend some time connecting things to new things, so that they don't remind me of what I don't have, but what I do. If that makes any sense. Like...maybe now you'll associate snow with walking, or talking, or searching, or even me. And if not, it's still something to work on."
"Some ponies are simply not permitted to make the connections they desire." Blueshield sighed and shook her head. "It is difficult to make do with what you can get, but it is also a tragedy to keep reaching for the impossible."
"If you would prefer, I could whinge about my own familial situation."
"I wouldn't mind if you did. But that's only if you really want to."
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Purple Prose merely gives her a sly look, smirking a bit. "Sorry, that's classified."
"I'm gonna take a wild stab and say that SB retirement is 90% trolling us civilians and 10% kicking back and grinning when they start making conspiracy theories." She sticks out her tongue playfully at him.
He then leans back a bit, listening to the discussions of political systems and family situations. In regards to the latter, he merely gives an aloof shrug. "Eh, mine's boring."
"That must be a relief. Even the declassified stuff you deal with has got to provide more than enough trouble, I'll bet."
Icy's Pad
Balboa sported a startled look at the hug, something he did not account for. For all the things Balboa accounted for, with back up plan after back up plan throughout his life, a hug from this mare was not one of them. He didn't know what to do at first but then soon he just went with it and returned the hug. At the moment, Fox's face was frozen in herp derp confusion.
The mare stayed wrapped around Balboa's shoulders for a few more moments, before finally releasing her hold, stepping back to wipe dab back some tears that had mysteriously appeared. "It's... quite precious, Mr. Balbao. Thank you," she said, taking a deep breath. "May I ask how did you manage to obtain so many? Its... value, it's incalculable."
The Bridle Shores Park
"Indeed mister....on a little short break right, afterwards do some final inspections, but I'm 100 percent sure in our craftmanship, why, with names like ours, its almost a guarantee in itself hahah." The stallion named Rafter chuckled.
"So, what are you folks doing here anyway? From what Miss Gearstride told us, yer part of some airship crew?" The mare, Purlin asked.
Silverpine nodded. "Aye. The good ship Cirrus. We... ah... have stopped for an extended stay, apparently."
Lone Star stared at her for a few moments before tilting his head. ...I don't follow.
"Well..." Esmeralda seemed uncharacteristically apprehensive. "... this holiday... it reminds me. What it was like to be alone." Mare really had a tendency to have her moods swing wildly. :smalltongue:
HalfTangible
2014-01-16, 10:51 AM
"Well..." Esmeralda seemed uncharacteristically apprehensive. "... this holiday... it reminds me. What it was like to be alone." Mare really had a tendency to have her moods swing wildly. :smalltongue:
Lone Star smiled at her. Well, you're not alone anymore, are you? You have me. Icy. Fox Trot or Hay Bale, in a pinch.
Lone Star smiled at her. Well, you're not alone anymore, are you? You have me. Icy. Fox Trot or Hay Bale, in a pinch.
"... yes. I suppose." Esmeralda blinked, then facehoofed, shaking her head. "I just... I guess I'm being silly now. Or maybe I just need to get out more."
HalfTangible
2014-01-16, 06:13 PM
"... yes. I suppose." Esmeralda blinked, then facehoofed, shaking her head. "I just... I guess I'm being silly now. Or maybe I just need to get out more."
Lone Star chuckled. We can go out now, if you like.
Lone Star chuckled. We can go out now, if you like.
Esmeralda giggled, and then kissed Lone Star on the cheek. "You're such a dear. Very well, I suppose we had had enough 'private' fun for the day. Any suggestions?"
HalfTangible
2014-01-18, 02:53 AM
Esmeralda giggled, and then kissed Lone Star on the cheek. "You're such a dear. Very well, I suppose we had had enough 'private' fun for the day. Any suggestions?"
Dinner, dancing, brawling, orgy, snowball fight, we could go steal Wrench's giant robot?
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-18, 02:56 AM
"Come to think of it, a pony skull is shaped kind of like a bellows, isn't it? Or is that a stretch?"
"If you're considering mausoleum chic - and I cringe as I say this - cutting smaller bones in half, replacing the marrow with wax, and connecting most with adhesive, plus a few chains, makes a surprisingly stable chandelier. Which, as we all know, doubles as a trap. Just...if you must be collecting bones, I suggest a graveyard. The margins aren't much, but it is less likely to end badly."
"Jeez, since when do you have a dark mind?"
"This isn't original. I once had a necromancer put me in a forcecage only to give me an hour-long speech about how gravedigging and interior decorating were closely interconnected."
Somehow, a lot of discussions in this town seemed to end up on the subject of interior decoration sooner or later.
"Huh! Never thought of that! Bones are amazin'. A lil' wax could help stick things too."
Blades shook her head. "It's strange how ponies don't seem to like necromancers. As magic-types go, they're not that bad. 'N yet a lot of ponies get scared 'cause they don't waste perfectly good bones. Mind, the nasty gloaty ones are no fun, but some of 'em are nice... Say, what happened to that necromancer?"
Arvadraa frowns. "I'm sorry. I didn't want to remind you about that place. Some memories are better left in the past, too easy to dwell on. I've had to spend some time connecting things to new things, so that they don't remind me of what I don't have, but what I do. If that makes any sense. Like...maybe now you'll associate snow with walking, or talking, or searching, or even me. And if not, it's still something to work on."
Flare laughed softly. "I am not troubled, young one. I prefer to use my time of imprisonment as a reminder to control my power, and my new liberty feels so much more... liberated. But I suppose we had both best focus on what is here and now."
She paused for a long time, unsure of how to continue. Finally, she said, "So... This snow is nice, but what can we do with it?"
Purple Prose merely gives her a sly look, smirking a bit. "Sorry, that's classified."
"I'm gonna take a wild stab and say that SB retirement is 90% trolling us civilians and 10% kicking back and grinning when they start making conspiracy theories." She sticks out her tongue playfully at him.
"Well, I simply cannot be allowed to find out if that's the case. After all, with such vital information, it would be trivial for a dangerous foreigner such as me to conquer your entire civilization and subject your population to an eternity of tyrannical rule." Blueshield seemed to smirk briefly.
"I wouldn't mind if you did. But that's only if you really want to."
He then leans back a bit, listening to the discussions of political systems and family situations. In regards to the latter, he merely gives an aloof shrug. "Eh, mine's boring."
"That must be a relief. Even the declassified stuff you deal with has got to provide more than enough trouble, I'll bet."
"That was intended as a joke." Blueshield flicked her ears. "To be brief, my parents had conflicting expectations of me, and I made a futile endeavour to satisfy both."
Dinner, dancing, brawling, orgy, snowball fight, we could go steal Wrench's giant robot?
"... giant robot?" That last one certainly has Es piqued. :smalltongue: "Where in Equestria would such a thing be kept?"
HalfTangible
2014-01-18, 03:21 AM
"... giant robot?" That last one certainly has Es piqued. :smalltongue: "Where in Equestria would such a thing be kept?"
Lone Star grinned and draped his still-organic wing around his lady love. Sounds like a plan, my dear. Shall we go?
Benson
2014-01-18, 04:32 AM
"Wouldn't surprise me if it did..." Sandy muttered as he poked it one last time...
"Ack! Ain't a rat, it ain't a rat!" Sandy beat at the spidery horde with his stick, frantically trying to corral them away from the other ponies and towards the park proper. "Stay back! Everythin's under control!" he called to Night Jewel and Prompter, his magic kicking up some sand - secreted away in his pack, of course - to buffet the spiders.
Night Jewel recoiled in alarm. "Yah! Well, at least it's not scorpions..."
After a moment to collect herself, she took out a pouch to try to catch as many stray technically-not-spiders as she could.
A few ponies nearby, four to five, who caught sight of the not really dangerous but still scary as all get out sight of hundreds upon hundreds of daddy long legs scurry about yelped and ran about. One mare fainted, hoof over forehead. Twas Prompter.
Fortunately, a moment after buffeting and catching, the rush of the long legs would soon disperse.
Silverpine nodded. "Aye. The good ship Cirrus. We... ah... have stopped for an extended stay, apparently."
"Very extended." Gearstride added with a small smile.
"OOh..well...hopefully, ol' Bridle Shores has been quite welcoming....even if things have been....very....unfortunate these past couple months." Mason commented with a grim smile.
"Flip side....plenty of construction work to be had," Purlin half heartedly smiled.
The mare stayed wrapped around Balboa's shoulders for a few more moments, before finally releasing her hold, stepping back to wipe dab back some tears that had mysteriously appeared. "It's... quite precious, Mr. Balboa. Thank you," she said, taking a deep breath. "May I ask how did you manage to obtain so many? Its... value, it's incalculable."
"My dear....I make it my duty to get what I want, be it rare gems to majority stock on another's company. Connections, and well lots of money." Balboa replied with a sagely nod.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-18, 09:31 AM
A few ponies nearby, four to five, who caught sight of the not really dangerous but still scary as all get out sight of hundreds upon hundreds of daddy long legs scurry about yelped and ran about. One mare fainted, hoof over forehead. Twas Prompter.
Fortunately, a moment after buffeting and catching, the rush of the long legs would soon disperse.
Sandy stood, twitching and shaking with adrenaline, waiting for any last stragglers to dare show their faces in his presence. One second...five seconds...ten seconds...nothing. He breathed a sigh of relief, then turned to his companions. "E-everypony alri-Miss Prompter!" Dropping his stick, the little stallion dashed to her side. "Miss Prompter? Can y'hear me? Are y'alright? Miss Prompter?!" Biting his lip in worry, he checked her pulse and gently nudged her with his muzzle.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-18, 05:24 PM
A few ponies nearby, four to five, who caught sight of the not really dangerous but still scary as all get out sight of hundreds upon hundreds of daddy long legs scurry about yelped and ran about. One mare fainted, hoof over forehead. Twas Prompter.
Fortunately, a moment after buffeting and catching, the rush of the long legs would soon disperse.
Sandy stood, twitching and shaking with adrenaline, waiting for any last stragglers to dare show their faces in his presence. One second...five seconds...ten seconds...nothing. He breathed a sigh of relief, then turned to his companions. "E-everypony alri-Miss Prompter!" Dropping his stick, the little stallion dashed to her side. "Miss Prompter? Can y'hear me? Are y'alright? Miss Prompter?!" Biting his lip in worry, he checked her pulse and gently nudged her with his muzzle.
Night Jewel stowed away the pouch carefully, planning to release the little creatures somewhere where they won't bother anypony. With that out of the way, she turned her attention back to the other ponies.
"...Yikes, that's some sensitivity. I wonder if she carries smelling salts with her in case something like this happens." She scurried over to Prompter and began searching the fallen mare for valuables something to wake her up.
Lone Star grinned and draped his still-organic wing around his lady love. Sounds like a plan, my dear. Shall we go?
"But, of course, Star dear. You'd have to show me how to drive, wouldn't you?" Esmeralda replied with a cheeky smile, peeking him on the cheek, before rising to her hooves.
"Very extended." Gearstride added with a small smile.
"OOh..well...hopefully, ol' Bridle Shores has been quite welcoming....even if things have been....very....unfortunate these past couple months." Mason commented with a grim smile.
"Flip side....plenty of construction work to be had," Purlin half heartedly smiled.
"Well, at least we're having a peaceful Hearth's Warming, yes?" Silverpine offered with a warm smile. "Speaking of which... I still don't really know what our roles are."
"My dear....I make it my duty to get what I want, be it rare gems to majority stock on another's company. Connections, and well lots of money." Balboa replied with a sagely nod.
"I... see." Icy resumed her normal frosty tone, somewhat. Though even Balboa would see that this memory of her home affected her deeply. Then she bowed her head again. "I must thank you for this most generous gift."
Benson
2014-01-21, 02:59 AM
Das Park
Night Jewel would find her wallet, which held two Bits, and a card that read her as a member of the Lone Star book club.
"Bhuwh...." The mare bhwuhed, her eyes underping. "Oof....a-are...are they gone?...I don't like spiders very much..." The mare wrinkled her muzzle and stared up blankly at Sandy and Night Jewel whose own faces were probably in close proximity.
------
"Uhm....well, we're probably not the right folks to ask about that....best to talk to Miss Soliloquy, were just the construction guys," Purlin smiled.
======
Icy's Pad
"Why do I feel like you're just trying to buy us over, Balboa?" Fox asked with a look of suspicion on his face.
"You can call me 'dad'," Balboa said to Fox.
"How about you just be happy I don't call you worse?"
Balboa wrinkled his muzzle and rolled his eyes. "Well anyways...I am not trying to buy you two over....why it is quite insulting for you to insinuate such a thing, hmmph!....I am simply trying to make amends and engage in the holiday spirit." He frowned and slumped his shoulders, Astrid resumed playing her tony violin in the background.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-21, 05:53 AM
Night Jewel would find her wallet, which held two Bits, and a card that read her as a member of the Lone Star book club.
"Bhuwh...." The mare bhwuhed, her eyes underping. "Oof....a-are...are they gone?...I don't like spiders very much..." The mare wrinkled her muzzle and stared up blankly at Sandy and Night Jewel whose own faces were probably in close proximity.
Night Jewel took a quick look in the wallet. She's not rich enough. It'd be wrong to steal from her. Besides, I don't want to be known as a two-bit criminal, puns or no puns. She almost immediately put it back. Maybe I could look into that book club, though.
"Ah, good, you're awake!" She gave the mare a warm smile. "Yes, they're dealt with. I'm not that afraid of spiders, myself; compared to scorpions, they're hardly worth worrying about."
HalfTangible
2014-01-21, 02:07 PM
"But, of course, Star dear. You'd have to show me how to drive, wouldn't you?" Esmeralda replied with a cheeky smile, peeking him on the cheek, before rising to her hooves.
Lone Star grinned at his lady love. Who says I know how to drive it? He laughed, nuzzling her as they walked out the door.
---
[Wrench's home]
Lone Star's method of knocking looked suspiciously like breaking in.
Kelvin360
2014-01-21, 05:39 PM
Somehow, a lot of discussions in this town seemed to end up on the subject of interior decoration sooner or later.
"Huh! Never thought of that! Bones are amazin'. A lil' wax could help stick things too."
Blades shook her head. "It's strange how ponies don't seem to like necromancers. As magic-types go, they're not that bad. 'N yet a lot of ponies get scared 'cause they don't waste perfectly good bones. Mind, the nasty gloaty ones are no fun, but some of 'em are nice... Say, what happened to that necromancer?"
"Well, regardless of how advanced society is, certain biases will remain from ancient times. I don't think our culture will shift away from the idea that the 'living' dead are anything but abominable for some time. There are also lines one shouldn't cross. Binding spirits from beyond the veil, so to speak, is a good deal more reprehensible than slavery established over the living.
As for the necromancer, he's in construction now. Apparently a horde of very strong, tireless, mass-produced workers tend to get the jobs finished that much more quickly. Of course, he prefers to work outside city limits, due to the aforementioned cultural biases."
"Wait, you let him go? Didn't he try to kill you?"
"No, just imprison me. He wanted one of my dissertations before it was finished. If it makes the story any more tolerable, Moonshine was having a bad day and put him in a coma for half a week when she and Feathergrin came to get me."
"Just a little bit more tolerable."
Flare laughed softly. "I am not troubled, young one. I prefer to use my time of imprisonment as a reminder to control my power, and my new liberty feels so much more... liberated. But I suppose we had both best focus on what is here and now."
She paused for a long time, unsure of how to continue. Finally, she said, "So... This snow is nice, but what can we do with it?"
"Well...it's malleable, if you don't mind the cold. I think there's this ritual where ponies take some and use it to make a sort of statue of another pony. I'm not sure why. Bonding exercise, maybe?"
"That was intended as a joke." Blueshield flicked her ears. "To be brief, my parents had conflicting expectations of me, and I made a futile endeavour to satisfy both."
"Did you end up choosing your own way? Whatever you did, it seems like it worked out pretty well."
"Uhm....well, we're probably not the right folks to ask about that....best to talk to Miss Soliloquy, were just the construction guys," Purlin smiled.
"Well... umm..." Silverpine glanced back at the minor scene that had erupted with Sandy and co. "I think she's a little pre-occupied at the moment."
Icy's Pad
"Why do I feel like you're just trying to buy us over, Balboa?" Fox asked with a look of suspicion on his face.
"You can call me 'dad'," Balboa said to Fox.
"How about you just be happy I don't call you worse?"
Balboa wrinkled his muzzle and rolled his eyes. "Well anyways...I am not trying to buy you two over....why it is quite insulting for you to insinuate such a thing, hmmph!....I am simply trying to make amends and engage in the holiday spirit." He frowned and slumped his shoulders, Astrid resumed playing her tony violin in the background.
"Fox!" Icy hissed sharply, a hoof poking his ribs. "The least we could do is be civil. Now do behave." Then she turned to Balboa with a small smile. "Mr Balboa, I do apologise for this. Would you mind staying for dinner?"
Lone Star grinned at his lady love. Who says I know how to drive it? He laughed, nuzzling her as they walked out the door.
---
[Wrench's home]
Lone Star's method of knocking looked suspiciously like breaking in.
Not that Esmeralda was one to judge. In fact, she's probably helping most enthusiastically. :smalltongue: "Star, you are sure that pulling off the door knob is absolutely necessary?"
HalfTangible
2014-01-22, 01:49 PM
Not that Esmeralda was one to judge. In fact, she's probably helping most enthusiastically. :smalltongue: "Star, you are sure that pulling off the door knob is absolutely necessary?"
It's not my fault he hid his spare FoFID tag in the doorknob. Lone Star smirked as the knob came off.
Benson
2014-01-23, 02:18 AM
Night Jewel took a quick look in the wallet. She's not rich enough. It'd be wrong to steal from her. Besides, I don't want to be known as a two-bit criminal, puns or no puns. She almost immediately put it back. Maybe I could look into that book club, though.
"Ah, good, you're awake!" She gave the mare a warm smile. "Yes, they're dealt with. I'm not that afraid of spiders, myself; compared to scorpions, they're hardly worth worrying about."
Prompter would not have noticed Night Jewel slipping back her wallet, lucky for the purple mare. "Wait....there's not surprise scorpions right? I mean well...err uh...I'm being dumb. Mmm...sorry about my fainting, unprofessional." She sat herself up and sputtered.
"Oh right! The light box...if err you Mister Sandy can...maybe continue with that?"
=======
"Well... umm..." Silverpine glanced back at the minor scene that had erupted with Sandy and co. "I think she's a little pre-occupied at the moment."
Indeed, Miss Soliloquy was pre-occupied, dealing with the actors on stage as they went through a quick rehearsal. Something something about Princess Platinum's crown missing was mentioned along the way.
"Fox!" Icy hissed sharply, a hoof poking his ribs. "The least we could do is be civil. Now do behave." Then she turned to Balboa with a small smile. "Mr Balboa, I do apologise for this. Would you mind staying for dinner?"
Fox scowled but obeyed Icy, sometimes, ya just had to listen to yer ol' lady if ya knew what was good for ya.
Balboa glanced at Fox with a frown and then smiled at Icy's words. The corners of his eyes began to swell up with a wetness. He grabbed one of her hooves and held it between both his forehooves.
"I would love to, thank you Miss Touch."
It's not my fault he hid his spare FoFID tag in the doorknob. Lone Star smirked as the knob came off.
"It's indeed an ingenious place, if I may say so," Esmeralda commented, as she held the knob for Lone Star. "Still, I hope he wouldn't miss us borrowing his machine." For a given of "borrow" anyway. :smalltongue:
Indeed, Miss Soliloquy was pre-occupied, dealing with the actors on stage as they went through a quick rehearsal. Something something about Princess Platinum's crown missing was mentioned along the way.
"So... anyway. Gear, I presume you at least have an inkling on what we're doing?" Silverpine turned to the erstwhile probably leering captain instead. :smalltongue:
Fox scowled but obeyed Icy, sometimes, ya just had to listen to yer ol' lady if ya knew what was good for ya.
Balboa glanced at Fox with a frown and then smiled at Icy's words. The corners of his eyes began to swell up with a wetness. He grabbed one of her hooves and held it between both his forehooves.
"I would love to, thank you Miss Touch."
Icy didn't seem to mind the hoof-grab, focused as she was on Fox's scowl. This was perhaps something he and she would have to discuss in private. "Icy, if you don't mind. Miss Touch simply invites too many innuendoes," she correctly absently. "Though now the age-old problem of where to have our dinner comes to mind. Any suggestions, Fox?" she said, tilting her head at Fox.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-23, 11:27 AM
Prompter would not have noticed Night Jewel slipping back her wallet, lucky for the purple mare. "Wait....there's not surprise scorpions right? I mean well...err uh...I'm being dumb. Mmm...sorry about my fainting, unprofessional." She sat herself up and sputtered.
"Oh right! The light box...if err you Mister Sandy can...maybe continue with that?"
Sandy - ever prepared - rummaged through his saddlebags, pulled out a military-style canteen, and hoofed it to the frazzled mare. "Here; sit tight an' have a few sips of this. A lil' breather an' some hot cocoa'll have you right as rain in no time. I'll take care of th' light box, don't you worry." Should she partake of the hot drink, she'll enjoy some steaming, rich chocolate goodness. The little stallion certainly knew how to brew a good mug of cocoa.
With a determined straightening of his uniform, Sandy marched back over to the fusebox. Now that the panel and the immediate surprises were out of the way, perhaps they could start making some headway. Flickering his horn back to life, he started to inspect the mess of dust and wires.
HalfTangible
2014-01-23, 01:00 PM
"It's indeed an ingenious place, if I may say so," Esmeralda commented, as she held the knob for Lone Star. "Still, I hope he wouldn't miss us borrowing his machine." For a given of "borrow" anyway. :smalltongue:
It's a thirty foot robot. It's not like we'll lose/total it. Put this on. He tossed her a necklace that had been inside the knob. The turret's'll ignore you if you wear that. My wing already does that, fortunately. They walked into the home.
Lycan 01
2014-01-23, 01:56 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose raises an eyebrow at Blueshield. "Oh? I know you mentioned your father was part of your nation's armed forces. I'm guessing your mother was something more civilian, and they both wanted you to follow in their respective footsteps?"
The batpony gives a shrug. "My parents thought I should try out for the Guard just to have something to fall back on while I tried to hit it off as a poet. They never expected me to actually, y'know, apply myself and earn rank pins, let alone get selected for Shadowbolt Training. Needless to say, they were rather proud."
He frowns a bit. "Not so happy about the early retirement, of course."
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-24, 01:29 AM
"Well, regardless of how advanced society is, certain biases will remain from ancient times. I don't think our culture will shift away from the idea that the 'living' dead are anything but abominable for some time. There are also lines one shouldn't cross. Binding spirits from beyond the veil, so to speak, is a good deal more reprehensible than slavery established over the living.
As for the necromancer, he's in construction now. Apparently a horde of very strong, tireless, mass-produced workers tend to get the jobs finished that much more quickly. Of course, he prefers to work outside city limits, due to the aforementioned cultural biases."
"Wait, you let him go? Didn't he try to kill you?"
"No, just imprison me. He wanted one of my dissertations before it was finished. If it makes the story any more tolerable, Moonshine was having a bad day and put him in a coma for half a week when she and Feathergrin came to get me."
"Just a little bit more tolerable."
Blades smiled. "Well, he'll be welcome if he comes 'round here! Sounds like a nice enough fellow. I don't really mind undead, myself. They're a lil' hard to kill, but that just makes it more excitin'."
She gave a curious look to Starbeam. "Say, what other kinds of adventures have ya had? Ya sound like the kind who has 'em a lot."
"Well...it's malleable, if you don't mind the cold. I think there's this ritual where ponies take some and use it to make a sort of statue of another pony. I'm not sure why. Bonding exercise, maybe?"
"Snow sculptures?" Flare looked around. "I suppose the only way to learn is to experiment. There does seem to be sufficient snow, and shaping it cannot be too difficult."
She picked up some snow and tried to mould it. After a bit of effort, she managed to form a large blobby shape about half the size of the average pony.
"...Perhaps I need some practice."
Prose raises an eyebrow at Blueshield. "Oh? I know you mentioned your father was part of your nation's armed forces. I'm guessing your mother was something more civilian, and they both wanted you to follow in their respective footsteps?"
Blueshield gave Prose a nod. "That is accurate. It seems you are attentive. My father was a Knight of high standing, and intended his eldest child to follow a similar path. My mother, being a scholar, preferred that I devote myself more to intellectual pursuits."
"Did you end up choosing your own way? Whatever you did, it seems like it worked out pretty well."
"I did make my own choice, to some extent. I had no desire to be either secluded in study or an ignorant brute, so while I did not select an unmentioned possibility, I made the decision to combine the optimal characteristics of both propositions. I did not succeed in completely satisfying either parent, but I feel it was the best choice I could have made."
The batpony gives a shrug. "My parents thought I should try out for the Guard just to have something to fall back on while I tried to hit it off as a poet. They never expected me to actually, y'know, apply myself and earn rank pins, let alone get selected for Shadowbolt Training. Needless to say, they were rather proud."
He frowns a bit. "Not so happy about the early retirement, of course."
Blueshield briefly got an amused look. "So you were not taken seriously even then? That might be considered an accomplishment. I suppose when others' expectations are lowered, they're easier to succeed. In any case, you proved them wrong in the end."
Then her expression hardened. "That said, I do not intend to give the impression that I encourage shirking to lower the standards you are held to. I expect consistent competence, and occasional flashes of brilliance will not make up for general laziness."
Prompter would not have noticed Night Jewel slipping back her wallet, lucky for the purple mare. "Wait....there's not surprise scorpions right? I mean well...err uh...I'm being dumb. Mmm...sorry about my fainting, unprofessional." She sat herself up and sputtered.
"Oh, don't worry about that. I'm not one for stuffy professionalism anyway."
"Oh right! The light box...if err you Mister Sandy can...maybe continue with that?"
Sandy - ever prepared - rummaged through his saddlebags, pulled out a military-style canteen, and hoofed it to the frazzled mare. "Here; sit tight an' have a few sips of this. A lil' breather an' some hot cocoa'll have you right as rain in no time. I'll take care of th' light box, don't you worry." Should she partake of the hot drink, she'll enjoy some steaming, rich chocolate goodness. The little stallion certainly knew how to brew a good mug of cocoa.
With a determined straightening of his uniform, Sandy marched back over to the fusebox. Now that the panel and the immediate surprises were out of the way, perhaps they could start making some headway. Flickering his horn back to life, he started to inspect the mess of dust and wires.
"Right. Back to work."
Night Jewel stepped forward, partly to get a better look at the box and partly to get close to Sandy. She then focused her magic, trying to get a feel for the inside with it.
Kelvin360
2014-01-24, 01:59 AM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Prose raises an eyebrow at Blueshield. "Oh? I know you mentioned your father was part of your nation's armed forces. I'm guessing your mother was something more civilian, and they both wanted you to follow in their respective footsteps?"
The batpony gives a shrug. "My parents thought I should try out for the Guard just to have something to fall back on while I tried to hit it off as a poet. They never expected me to actually, y'know, apply myself and earn rank pins, let alone get selected for Shadowbolt Training. Needless to say, they were rather proud."
He frowns a bit. "Not so happy about the early retirement, of course."
"Apply yourself, huh? Kind of strikes me as a gig that's more important to you than you let on. I'm not sure I'd call that laziness as much as a really strict set of priorities. Which...I'm not sure how I feel about that."
Blades smiled. "Well, he'll be welcome if he comes 'round here! Sounds like a nice enough fellow. I don't really mind undead, myself. They're a lil' hard to kill, but that just makes it more excitin'."
She gave a curious look to Starbeam. "Say, what other kinds of adventures have ya had? Ya sound like the kind who has 'em a lot."
"I'd like to think I've lived a fairly full life. Of course, I'd rather have filled it with more time studying as opposed to running and screaming and almost dying. Most of what the Lightbringers deal with is largely unsubstantiated - threats you wouldn't have heard of otherwise, which is the point. The dark ones are an example of what happens when we miss something or simply aren't prepared to deal with it."
"Hey, speaking of dark ones, didn't you kill spiky armor guy once? Tell us about that."
Starbeam purses her lips and considers the request. "I...all right. I suppose it bears mentioning. It's not as dramatic as you might think, though."
"Snow sculptures?" Flare looked around. "I suppose the only way to learn is to experiment. There does seem to be sufficient snow, and shaping it cannot be too difficult."
She picked up some snow and tried to mould it. After a bit of effort, she managed to form a large blobby shape about half the size of the average pony.
"...Perhaps I need some practice."
"Well...it's the shapes that will take the most time. Our hooves are flat, but not bendy. So we can smooth out rough edges..." She demonstrates by scraping off excess snow, turning the upper half of the lump into a more reasonable spherical form. "But it's getting the edges that's hard. So...I think the easiest way is to make a huge pile and then cut and smooth pieces where we need to."
"I did make my own choice, to some extent. I had no desire to be either secluded in study or an ignorant brute, so while I did not select an unmentioned possibility, I made the decision to combine the optimal characteristics of both propositions. I did not succeed in completely satisfying either parent, but I feel it was the best choice I could have made."
"I don't know a lot of ponies sensible enough to go for the middle ground. Extremes seem more appealing, I think. But they don't always do as much."
Benson
2014-01-25, 02:48 AM
"So... anyway. Gear, I presume you at least have an inkling on what we're doing?" Silverpine turned to the erstwhile probably leering captain instead. :smalltongue:
"Well of course....put on some costumes, put on some make up....none of that is gonna happen with us standing here!" She yoinked at his jacket sleeve. "We gotta go take the iniative and talk to that Soliloquy!"
Icy didn't seem to mind the hoof-grab, focused as she was on Fox's scowl. This was perhaps something he and she would have to discuss in private. "Icy, if you don't mind. Miss Touch simply invites too many innuendoes," she correctly absently. "Though now the age-old problem of where to have our dinner comes to mind. Any suggestions, Fox?" she said, tilting her head at Fox.
"Fair enough my dear," Balboa said to Icy and also let go of her hoof.
Fox's scowl softened a tiny microscopic bit. He had wanted to have dinner with just him and Icy, though now it seemed he was stuck bringing his father and his assistant along.
"I suppose...hmmph...well there is a nice restaurant along Rein and Derby Streets, on the upscale side, though probably not to your standards, Balboa."
"Dad. Anyways, sounds lovely already, I would love to just eat there, with you two." Balboa said keeping an even tone and polite-ness.
=======
"Oh, don't worry about that. I'm not one for stuffy professionalism anyway."
"Right. Back to work."
Night Jewel stepped forward, partly to get a better look at the box and partly to get close to Sandy. She then focused her magic, trying to get a feel for the inside with it.
Sandy - ever prepared - rummaged through his saddlebags, pulled out a military-style canteen, and hoofed it to the frazzled mare. "Here; sit tight an' have a few sips of this. A lil' breather an' some hot cocoa'll have you right as rain in no time. I'll take care of th' light box, don't you worry." Should she partake of the hot drink, she'll enjoy some steaming, rich chocolate goodness. The little stallion certainly knew how to brew a good mug of cocoa.
With a determined straightening of his uniform, Sandy marched back over to the fusebox. Now that the panel and the immediate surprises were out of the way, perhaps they could start making some headway. Flickering his horn back to life, he started to inspect the mess of dust and wires.
She thanked him and happily took to drinking the hot cocoa, she favored coffee, but this was good too.
Looking at the fusebox turned light box, they would see the mess of wires that it was this...thing's. Studying it, it was more than likely that the wires were switched, not connected to where they should be going to.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-25, 10:57 AM
"Right. Back to work."
Night Jewel stepped forward, partly to get a better look at the box and partly to get close to Sandy. She then focused her magic, trying to get a feel for the inside with it.
She thanked him and happily took to drinking the hot cocoa, she favored coffee, but this was good too.
Looking at the fusebox turned light box, they would see the mess of wires that it was this...thing's. Studying it, it was more than likely that the wires were switched, not connected to where they should be going to.
Sandy failed to notice the rapidly shrinking proximity to Night Jewel, and why should he? She was just a little pony, after all. :smalltongue:
"Hmmmm, so y'ain't right in th' head after all..." The little engineer mused to himself as he traced some wires with his hoof. "I'd stake my shirt on it; somepony's gone and wired her up all bonkers. It'll be a bit of work t'fix, but it ain't such a hard job." He pointed out the board of light-switches with his own horn-light. "Here; can you go over there an' tell me which of these here input wires go t'which light? I'll stay here an' wire 'em up to th' lights they ought t'go to, an' toss out any extra bits while I'm at it."
"Well of course....put on some costumes, put on some make up....none of that is gonna happen with us standing here!" She yoinked at his jacket sleeve. "We gotta go take the iniative and talk to that Soliloquy!"
"Hwuh?" Silverpine could only say before he got yoinked away and dragged towards Soliloquy. :smalltongue:
"Fair enough my dear," Balboa said to Icy and also let go of her hoof.
Fox's scowl softened a tiny microscopic bit. He had wanted to have dinner with just him and Icy, though now it seemed he was stuck bringing his father and his assistant along.
"I suppose...hmmph...well there is a nice restaurant along Rein and Derby Streets, on the upscale side, though probably not to your standards, Balboa."
"Dad. Anyways, sounds lovely already, I would love to just eat there, with you two." Balboa said keeping an even tone and polite-ness.
Icy shot another sharp look at Fox, before shaking her head. "Well, I guess that's settled then. Shall we?" she said, trotting over towards the door, having already dressed anyway.
Lycan 01
2014-01-25, 11:14 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]
Blueshield gave Prose a nod. "That is accurate. It seems you are attentive. My father was a Knight of high standing, and intended his eldest child to follow a similar path. My mother, being a scholar, preferred that I devote myself more to intellectual pursuits."
"I did make my own choice, to some extent. I had no desire to be either secluded in study or an ignorant brute, so while I did not select an unmentioned possibility, I made the decision to combine the optimal characteristics of both propositions. I did not succeed in completely satisfying either parent, but I feel it was the best choice I could have made."
"And both of them told you to be what you truly wanted to be, how might that have turned out?" Prose inquires idly, flashing an aloof smile.
Blueshield briefly got an amused look. "So you were not taken seriously even then? That might be considered an accomplishment. I suppose when others' expectations are lowered, they're easier to succeed. In any case, you proved them wrong in the end."
Then her expression hardened. "That said, I do not intend to give the impression that I encourage shirking to lower the standards you are held to. I expect consistent competence, and occasional flashes of brilliance will not make up for general laziness."
And that lazy smile disappears, replaced by a bit of an annoyed frown. "The expectations being low didn't make things easier for me. If anything, things were harder for me, because I had no support or encouragement. Everypony wrote me off, and put extra scrutiny on me. I had to work harder than many of my colleagues to prove myself, and fight tooth and claw to earn everyone ounce of respect and recognition that I rightfully deserved." It appears she may have struck a nerve, whether she intended to or not...
His frown then fades, curling into a wry smirk. "Besides, who says I'm actually as lazy as I act? Perhaps I merely put up a front so I can more easily manipulate everyone around me, and show occasional flashes of laziness to distract from my general brilliance." He leans a bit closer towards Blueshield, smirk deepening, a coy look in his eye. "After all, when ponies underestimate you, it's much easier to surprise them - or catch them off guard."
Prose then flutters backwards, chuckling wryly. "Ah, but let's face it, I'm too lazy to pull of something that complicated and clever... Right?" he winks.
"Apply yourself, huh? Kind of strikes me as a gig that's more important to you than you let on. I'm not sure I'd call that laziness as much as a really strict set of priorities. Which...I'm not sure how I feel about that."
Prose flops backwards to hover upside down, forehooves folded behind his head in a comfortable position as he lazily floats on his back. "Eh, like I said," he shrugs, "Maybe I just put on an act? Or maybe I'm just enjoying my retirement after so many years of putting priority on precision and perfection," he aloofly alliterates.
Benson
2014-01-28, 11:53 AM
Sandy failed to notice the rapidly shrinking proximity to Night Jewel, and why should he? She was just a little pony, after all. :smalltongue:
"Hmmmm, so y'ain't right in th' head after all..." The little engineer mused to himself as he traced some wires with his hoof. "I'd stake my shirt on it; somepony's gone and wired her up all bonkers. It'll be a bit of work t'fix, but it ain't such a hard job." He pointed out the board of light-switches with his own horn-light. "Here; can you go over there an' tell me which of these here input wires go t'which light? I'll stay here an' wire 'em up to th' lights they ought t'go to, an' toss out any extra bits while I'm at it."
And so she did, tell tell him which of the input wires were suppose to go to which light and light controls.
"Well I just feel plum dumb that it was this easy," Prompter puffed her cheeks and sighed. "Anyways, thank you very much Mister Shores."
"Hwuh?" Silverpine could only say before he got yoinked away and dragged towards Soliloquy. :smalltongue:
"What?" Soliloquy sharply asked after Gearstride and Silverpine approached them. "Oh...tis you two...ah..sorry, give me a moment darlings.." She shooed away some other pony and cleared her throat. "What is it?"
"Uhm, we're wondering...what we're supposed to do...I mean..we were going to play some extras yes...some earth pony peasants."
"Oh right...hmmm....ah...well...you should probably go join the others in getting your costume make up done...you won't have any lines....so really it is just the make up and costume." She replied back.
Icy shot another sharp look at Fox, before shaking her head. "Well, I guess that's settled then. Shall we?" she said, trotting over towards the door, having already dressed anyway.
"....Babe.....dinner won't be til later....we seem to be at a misunderstanding and I know who to blame.." He glanced at Balboa before looking back at Icy.
"I had some other things planned for just the /two of us/ before dinner.." Fox said.
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-29, 01:44 AM
"I'd like to think I've lived a fairly full life. Of course, I'd rather have filled it with more time studying as opposed to running and screaming and almost dying. Most of what the Lightbringers deal with is largely unsubstantiated - threats you wouldn't have heard of otherwise, which is the point. The dark ones are an example of what happens when we miss something or simply aren't prepared to deal with it."
"Well, if ya ever get tired of it, I can take over for ya for a bit! I haven't been gettin' enough action in myself lately."
"Hey, speaking of dark ones, didn't you kill spiky armor guy once? Tell us about that."
Starbeam purses her lips and considers the request. "I...all right. I suppose it bears mentioning. It's not as dramatic as you might think, though."
Blades looked intrigued. "Huh! Ya actually did it? I remember when 'Vadraa 'n Stellar tried... Ya know, it's not often that ya get to kill a pony more than once, 'cept when necromancers are 'round. So what happened, anyway?"
"Well...it's the shapes that will take the most time. Our hooves are flat, but not bendy. So we can smooth out rough edges..." She demonstrates by scraping off excess snow, turning the upper half of the lump into a more reasonable spherical form. "But it's getting the edges that's hard. So...I think the easiest way is to make a huge pile and then cut and smooth pieces where we need to."
"Start big and work smaller. I suppose I can manage that. Perhaps with the right sort of tools... Ah, but we'll get to that."
Flare concentrated for a bit, then caused the ground below to launch a huge amount of snow onto the existing pile. She then worked on shaping it into a neat sphere that was significantly larger than the average pony.
"Is this pile 'huge' enough?"
"I don't know a lot of ponies sensible enough to go for the middle ground. Extremes seem more appealing, I think. But they don't always do as much."
"Well said. It is quite useful to be able to see things in more than one way, and adaptation is far more successful than stubbornly sticking to one method."
"And both of them told you to be what you truly wanted to be, how might that have turned out?" Prose inquires idly, flashing an aloof smile.
Blueshield paused to consider.
"It may have been different, or may not have. Even without outside influences, my ideals and interests have always been synchronized with my current occupation. Perhaps I would be less skilled, less disciplined, or happier, depending on the circumstances, but I do not see my destiny changing."
And that lazy smile disappears, replaced by a bit of an annoyed frown. "The expectations being low didn't make things easier for me. If anything, things were harder for me, because I had no support or encouragement. Everypony wrote me off, and put extra scrutiny on me. I had to work harder than many of my colleagues to prove myself, and fight tooth and claw to earn everyone ounce of respect and recognition that I rightfully deserved." It appears she may have struck a nerve, whether she intended to or not...
His frown then fades, curling into a wry smirk. "Besides, who says I'm actually as lazy as I act? Perhaps I merely put up a front so I can more easily manipulate everyone around me, and show occasional flashes of laziness to distract from my general brilliance." He leans a bit closer towards Blueshield, smirk deepening, a coy look in his eye. "After all, when ponies underestimate you, it's much easier to surprise them - or catch them off guard."
Prose then flutters backwards, chuckling wryly. "Ah, but let's face it, I'm too lazy to pull of something that complicated and clever... Right?" he winks.
"Mr. Prose, I assure you they were quite wrong about your skill, and that I have no doubts about your capabilities. My only concern is that you do not acquire inaccurate impressions."
Blueshield went silent for a moment, then shook her head. "...I do suppose I misjudged your experiences. I have previously dealt with ponies who thought I would be something grander than I am, and I expected the opposite situation to be better, but an extreme in either direction is problematic. "
She thanked him and happily took to drinking the hot cocoa, she favored coffee, but this was good too.
Looking at the fusebox turned light box, they would see the mess of wires that it was this...thing's. Studying it, it was more than likely that the wires were switched, not connected to where they should be going to.
Sandy failed to notice the rapidly shrinking proximity to Night Jewel, and why should he? She was just a little pony, after all. :smalltongue:
"Hmmmm, so y'ain't right in th' head after all..." The little engineer mused to himself as he traced some wires with his hoof. "I'd stake my shirt on it; somepony's gone and wired her up all bonkers. It'll be a bit of work t'fix, but it ain't such a hard job." He pointed out the board of light-switches with his own horn-light. "Here; can you go over there an' tell me which of these here input wires go t'which light? I'll stay here an' wire 'em up to th' lights they ought t'go to, an' toss out any extra bits while I'm at it."
"How messy! It looks like matching-puzzle time."
Night Jewel turned to Sandy and smiled. "Need a hoof straightening this out? Or do you need moral support? I'd be happy to help with either."
"What?" Soliloquy sharply asked after Gearstride and Silverpine approached them. "Oh...tis you two...ah..sorry, give me a moment darlings.." She shooed away some other pony and cleared her throat. "What is it?"
"Uhm, we're wondering...what we're supposed to do...I mean..we were going to play some extras yes...some earth pony peasants."
"Oh right...hmmm....ah...well...you should probably go join the others in getting your costume make up done...you won't have any lines....so really it is just the make up and costume." She replied back.
Silverpine's ears flattened a little at the mention that they were going to be only playing extras. He had expected some sort of speaking roles at least. But then again, they weren't called for any sort of practice, so it'd be odd to have lines.
He quickly smiled at the director. "Right. Make up and costume. We probably should go and do so before the show starts. Thanks, Miss Soliloquy." Silverpine then nudged Gearstride towards wherever the nearest costume area was. :smalltongue:
"....Babe.....dinner won't be til later....we seem to be at a misunderstanding and I know who to blame.." He glanced at Balboa before looking back at Icy.
"I had some other things planned for just the /two of us/ before dinner.." Fox said.
Icy stopped in her tracks, and tilted her head at Fox. "Oh? Only the two of us? What might those plans be?"
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-29, 11:45 PM
And so she did, tell tell him which of the input wires were suppose to go to which light and light controls.
"Well I just feel plum dumb that it was this easy," Prompter puffed her cheeks and sighed. "Anyways, thank you very much Mister Shores."[/COLOR]
Sandy dutifully jotted down which wires should go to where with a little marker on the wire box. "Hold th' thanks 'till we've got her switched on an' workin' properly. Sometimes, machines get a lil' ornery when you get ahead of yourself."
"How messy! It looks like matching-puzzle time."
Night Jewel turned to Sandy and smiled. "Need a hoof straightening this out? Or do you need moral support? I'd be happy to help with either."
"Keep a light on, an' double-check it as I go. I'm liable t'lose a wire in this lot, an' I can't concentrate on a light spell while I'm tracin' th' wires out." He took a deep breath, staring at the unholy tangle of wires he was about to delve into. His confidence took a few steps back. "...an', uh, if y'got room for moral support in there somewhere, I suppose that couldn't hurt."
PurityIcekiller
2014-01-30, 12:31 AM
"Keep a light on, an' double-check it as I go. I'm liable t'lose a wire in this lot, an' I can't concentrate on a light spell while I'm tracin' th' wires out." He took a deep breath, staring at the unholy tangle of wires he was about to delve into. His confidence took a few steps back. "...an', uh, if y'got room for moral support in there somewhere, I suppose that couldn't hurt."
"Got it." Night Jewel put a hoof around Sandy. "You're a smart colt. You can do it. Here, I'll get that light."
Night Jewel concentrated for a bit. "Is that good enough? ...No, wait, I forgot to set it to visible." After a few moments, a nice glow started to emanate from her horn, making it easier to see. "There. Let's get this sorted out."
As Sandy worked, Night Jewel would keep an eye out for things he missed, along with providing verbal support and the occasional backrub when he seemed to be getting overwhelmed. This may or may not have been helpful.
TheAmishPirate
2014-01-30, 10:57 AM
"Got it." Night Jewel put a hoof around Sandy. "You're a smart colt. You can do it. Here, I'll get that light."
Night Jewel concentrated for a bit. "Is that good enough? ...No, wait, I forgot to set it to visible." After a few moments, a nice glow started to emanate from her horn, making it easier to see. "There. Let's get this sorted out."
As Sandy worked, Night Jewel would keep an eye out for things he missed, along with providing verbal support and the occasional backrub when he seemed to be getting overwhelmed. This may or may not have been helpful.
Sandy's breath caught in his throat, his eyes darting between the mess of cables and the hoof currently draped across his shoulders. "Y-yeah. Just fine. That...shiny thing. Light. It's good. Good." He awkwardly cleared his throat and sat down on his haunches before the fusebox. "L-let's just start wi-with this one here..."
A ship like Cirrus demanded a high standard from its engineers. Untested tech and an appalling lack of safety features required the best and the brightest, or at least dumb luck. In his short tenure as engineer, Sandy had faced all manner of technical difficulties with a smile on his face and a wrench in his teeth, and come out on top. The results weren't always pretty, but he got the job done.
The chief difference between those jobs and this one, was that half his brain wasn't completely devoted to figuring out what the hay was this filly's deal.
After only a few wires, Night Jewel would catch his first mistake, which he promptly corrected with many a nervous, flustered apology. Any words of praise or affirmation only produced a light flush on his cheeks, an awkwardly mumbled word of thanks, and/or more mistakes. The nerves piled up, leading to more mistakes, which wound his nerves tighter, which led to ever more confusion, and so the vicious cycle went until poor Sandy could hardly trace a wire for more than an inch without getting hopelessly lost. By mere proximity, the Desert Fennec had stolen away Sandy's competence; an impressive heist by any measure.
Should Night Jewel opt for a backrub on the beleaguered stallion, she'd find it...in a bad shape. To call it a hopelessly tight jumble of tense knots would vastly overestimate the physical capabilities of knots. A closer estimate would put them somewhere around "black holes where loose muscles go to die." Any attempts to smooth out and relax the muscles was met with fierce opposition and little, hidden winces from Sandy. Her "help" couldn't possibly have caused all this; this back belonged to a pony who probably couldn't even spell "relax."
Clearly, this was a whole new level of dolt colt she was dealing with. :smalltongue:
Benson
2014-01-31, 12:49 PM
With Sandy and Night Jewel
Prompter looked at Sandy with concern, tilting her head. "Are you alright?...You're awfully nervous about something."
Silverpine's ears flattened a little at the mention that they were going to be only playing extras. He had expected some sort of speaking roles at least. But then again, they weren't called for any sort of practice, so it'd be odd to have lines.
He quickly smiled at the director. "Right. Make up and costume. We probably should go and do so before the show starts. Thanks, Miss Soliloquy." Silverpine then nudged Gearstride towards wherever the nearest costume area was. :smalltongue:
Twas Gearstride's fault as she had made it seem grander when she had first approached him and Sandy. She noticed his flattening ears and gave him a quick peck and held his hoof.
"Sorry babe, if ain't what you were hopin for.....but hey, we get to sing in the end of the chorus, ya know, the Hearthswarming Eve carol we all know and love? Mmmm, yer gonna make the cutest earth pony peasant haha heh." She chuckled as they walked over to where they were to get into costume and make up, back stage.
Icy stopped in her tracks, and tilted her head at Fox. "Oh? Only the two of us? What might those plans be?"
He walked up to in order to whisper to her, he didn't feel like sharing any details with his father.
"Well I wanted to take you out n a romantic carriage ride....the rest a secret...well sans dinner.."
Kelvin360
2014-01-31, 05:44 PM
[Clouds Above Bridle Shores]Prose flops backwards to hover upside down, forehooves folded behind his head in a comfortable position as he lazily floats on his back. "Eh, like I said," he shrugs, "Maybe I just put on an act? Or maybe I'm just enjoying my retirement after so many years of putting priority on precision and perfection," he aloofly alliterates.
"Mmmmno. That would be more convincing if you hadn't just disproved it, uh, twice. If it makes you feel any better, you're way better at bluffing than pulling out verbal back-steps." She grins again and nudges him. "You're super with what you do, Prose. Just you being where you are is good enough for me. Plus, now you're retired, you can start pulling out the 'they don't make 'em like they used to' and 'back in my day' anecdotes. They're exactly as fun to say as they sound."
"Well, if ya ever get tired of it, I can take over for ya for a bit! I haven't been gettin' enough action in myself lately."
Blades looked intrigued. "Huh! Ya actually did it? I remember when 'Vadraa 'n Stellar tried... Ya know, it's not often that ya get to kill a pony more than once, 'cept when necromancers are 'round. So what happened, anyway?"
"Well, erm, it was actually an accident. One of his backup plans failed catastrophically, and our stated goal wasn't to kill him then. Not to hear Taylor tell it, though.
There were multiple hints that it wouldn't go as planned, both from the environment and our relative ease in beginning the confrontation. I suppose you expected me to begin with 'it was a dark and stormy night'? Well, so did we. But it was warm, cloudless, and midafternoon. It was just Taylor and myself; Moonlight had been the target of an assassination attempt just a day prior, and Moonshine was in Canterlot seeing to his recuperation..."
"Start big and work smaller. I suppose I can manage that. Perhaps with the right sort of tools... Ah, but we'll get to that."
Flare concentrated for a bit, then caused the ground below to launch a huge amount of snow onto the existing pile. She then worked on shaping it into a neat sphere that was significantly larger than the average pony.
"Is this pile 'huge' enough?"
"I think so. Let's start on the middle - scooping out a lot of snow at once will be easier than the smaller bits later."
Twas Gearstride's fault as she had made it seem grander when she had first approached him and Sandy. She noticed his flattening ears and gave him a quick peck and held his hoof.
"Sorry babe, if ain't what you were hopin for.....but hey, we get to sing in the end of the chorus, ya know, the Hearthswarming Eve carol we all know and love? Mmmm, yer gonna make the cutest earth pony peasant haha heh." She chuckled as they walked over to where they were to get into costume and make up, back stage.
Silverpine just good-naturedly ribbed Gearstride back in the sides. "You always think of the darnest things, Captain," he replied with a smile. "Singing the chorus alone would be quite an honour for an outsider, I suppose."
He walked up to in order to whisper to her, he didn't feel like sharing any details with his father.
"Well I wanted to take you out n a romantic carriage ride....the rest a secret...well sans dinner.."
Icy just tilted her head further, at Fox, before glancing back at Balboa, who no doubt would be straining to hear just what the two were whispering. "Well, hm... that is awkward... was this your plan from the beginning?"
HalfTangible
2014-02-01, 03:24 AM
[Wrench's home]
Lone Star and Esmeralda moved through the home of the Engineer pony, jumping a bit when turrets popped out and looked at them, but not actually encountering any resistance. They reached what appeared to be a garage with a small glass booth set in the center of it. Inside the glass booth was a large red button.
Here we go. This goes right to the giant robot. Lone Star entered the booth and smooshed himself against the wall. There'd be room for both of them, but just barely.
[Wrench's home]
Lone Star and Esmeralda moved through the home of the Engineer pony, jumping a bit when turrets popped out and looked at them, but not actually encountering any resistance. They reached what appeared to be a garage with a small glass booth set in the center of it. Inside the glass booth was a large red button.
Here we go. This goes right to the giant robot. Lone Star entered the booth and smooshed himself against the wall. There'd be room for both of them, but just barely.
Esmeralda certainly was observing their environment keenly, curious as to what wonders the small home holds. She guessed shrewdly that the engineer pony probably had more of these tech stashed away someplace. She paused a moment to look at Lone Star squeezing into the booth, before shrugging and squeezing in after him, probably taking the time to wiggle against him a little more than necessary. :smalltongue:
"Now what?" she asked, once properly seated, barely managing to fit her tail inside.
HalfTangible
2014-02-01, 02:04 PM
Esmeralda certainly was observing their environment keenly, curious as to what wonders the small home holds. She guessed shrewdly that the engineer pony probably had more of these tech stashed away someplace. She paused a moment to look at Lone Star squeezing into the booth, before shrugging and squeezing in after him, probably taking the time to wiggle against him a little more than necessary. :smalltongue:
"Now what?" she asked, once properly seated, barely managing to fit her tail inside.We make out. Yes, it is completely neccessary. No, I am not doing this just for fun, it is completely required that my tongue go halfway down your throat.
We hit the big red button. Lone Star said instead with a grin. He punched the button, and the glass case shot downward. With a resounding 'thump', it landed in a dark room from which many colored buttons blinked and flashed around them.
Lone Star kissed her horn. Welcome to the Trojan Mk8.
We make out. Yes, it is completely neccessary. No, I am not doing this just for fun, it is completely required that my tongue go halfway down your throat.
We hit the big red button. Lone Star said instead with a grin. He punched the button, and the glass case shot downward. With a resounding 'thump', it landed in a dark room from which many colored buttons blinked and flashed around them.
Lone Star kissed her horn. Welcome to the Trojan Mk8.
(Well, I'm assuming it opens up to a bigger room.)
Oho, that certainly jolted the normally placid (well, not really. Placid should refer to her twin.) mare into wide-eyed wonder. Not so ironically, Esmeralda was probably having the same thoughts as Lone Star.
Mmm, he looks so hot just squished there against the glass. Screw physics, we're going to have a makeout session here right after we're done with this.
Outwardly though, she just giggled, and kissed Lone Star back on the cheek. "Trojan eh? Such a lovely name." She wiggled out of the glass box, again taking her time to brush and wiggle against Lone Star playfully. Then she trotted towards the colourful light display that played out mesmerisingly in front of her, debating whether or not to just press all the buttons and see what would happen.
Lycan 01
2014-02-02, 02:12 AM
[Up in the Clouds]
"Mr. Prose, I assure you they were quite wrong about your skill, and that I have no doubts about your capabilities. My only concern is that you do not acquire inaccurate impressions."
Blueshield went silent for a moment, then shook her head. "...I do suppose I misjudged your experiences. I have previously dealt with ponies who thought I would be something grander than I am, and I expected the opposite situation to be better, but an extreme in either direction is problematic. "
Prose chuckles loftily. "Who says I don't want inaccurate impressions?" he croons, idly cutting a flip as he lazily hovers in the air. "Let's say for a moment that I'm not actually a lazy bum, and that I really am a deadly, skilled Shadowbolt with close ties to the Equestrian authorities and the Princess herself. If ponies saw me that way, everypony would respect me, sure. But they would also fear me. I'd always get weird look, everypony would be nervous around me, and I'd probably have to deal with other problems. They'd all do their best not to make me suspect them of any wrongdoing, constantly on their best behavior, telling me what I want to hear. They'd be fake. But if everypony thinks I'm lazy, and got fired or something for sucking at my job? Then ponies may not respect me, but they'll at least at like normal ponies around me. Who knows, they might even be nice to me, since I'd be Purple Prose the batpony, instead of Wing Leader or Inquisitor Prose," he muses thoughtfully. "Savvy?"
He cuts another flip, before grinning crookedly. "Hypothetically speaking, of course."
"Mmmmno. That would be more convincing if you hadn't just disproved it, uh, twice. If it makes you feel any better, you're way better at bluffing than pulling out verbal back-steps." She grins again and nudges him. "You're super with what you do, Prose. Just you being where you are is good enough for me. Plus, now you're retired, you can start pulling out the 'they don't make 'em like they used to' and 'back in my day' anecdotes. They're exactly as fun to say as they sound."
"Heeeeey," Prose frowns at her indignantly. "I'm not old! I mean, I ain't young, but I ain't old, either! I ought to report you for that, meanie!" he playfully teases with a lazy smirk.
HalfTangible
2014-02-02, 02:29 AM
(Well, I'm assuming it opens up to a bigger room.)
Oho, that certainly jolted the normally placid (well, not really. Placid should refer to her twin.) mare into wide-eyed wonder. Not so ironically, Esmeralda was probably having the same thoughts as Lone Star.
Mmm, he looks so hot just squished there against the glass. Screw physics, we're going to have a makeout session here right after we're done with this.
Outwardly though, she just giggled, and kissed Lone Star back on the cheek. "Trojan eh? Such a lovely name." She wiggled out of the glass box, again taking her time to brush and wiggle against Lone Star playfully. Then she trotted towards the colourful light display that played out mesmerisingly in front of her, debating whether or not to just press all the buttons and see what would happen.
(Er, yes. it was supposed to be a cockpit with the lights off and no natural sunlight coming in through the front since it's underground. Think Enterprise, or maybe Megazord. Point is, it's bigger.)
Lone Star grinned as he eyed up his fillyfriend. I've got my eye on something lovelier~
Cheesy line done with, he walked forward and wrapped his wing around her, nuzzling her neck. Wanna launch it? I'm sure Wrench won't mind we took it for a spin if we never tell him.
PurityIcekiller
2014-02-02, 11:45 PM
Prose chuckles loftily. "Who says I don't want inaccurate impressions?" he croons, idly cutting a flip as he lazily hovers in the air. "Let's say for a moment that I'm not actually a lazy bum, and that I really am a deadly, skilled Shadowbolt with close ties to the Equestrian authorities and the Princess herself. If ponies saw me that way, everypony would respect me, sure. But they would also fear me. I'd always get weird look, everypony would be nervous around me, and I'd probably have to deal with other problems. They'd all do their best not to make me suspect them of any wrongdoing, constantly on their best behavior, telling me what I want to hear. They'd be fake. But if everypony thinks I'm lazy, and got fired or something for sucking at my job? Then ponies may not respect me, but they'll at least at like normal ponies around me. Who knows, they might even be nice to me, since I'd be Purple Prose the batpony, instead of Wing Leader or Inquisitor Prose," he muses thoughtfully. "Savvy?"
He cuts another flip, before grinning crookedly. "Hypothetically speaking, of course."
Blueshield put a hoof to her forehead. "Mr. Prose, I am less inclined to accept correction of my assumptions if you immediately contradict said correction. One moment, you find it insulting to be considered less capable than you truly are, but it is an advantage the next?"
"Mmmmno. That would be more convincing if you hadn't just disproved it, uh, twice. If it makes you feel any better, you're way better at bluffing than pulling out verbal back-steps." She grins again and nudges him. "You're super with what you do, Prose. Just you being where you are is good enough for me. Plus, now you're retired, you can start pulling out the 'they don't make 'em like they used to' and 'back in my day' anecdotes. They're exactly as fun to say as they sound."
"Heeeeey," Prose frowns at her indignantly. "I'm not old! I mean, I ain't young, but I ain't old, either! I ought to report you for that, meanie!" he playfully teases with a lazy smirk.
"You may think of it as having a superior demonstrated aptitude for prolonging the duration of your existence instead, if you prefer," Blueshield remarked.
"Well, erm, it was actually an accident. One of his backup plans failed catastrophically, and our stated goal wasn't to kill him then. Not to hear Taylor tell it, though.
There were multiple hints that it wouldn't go as planned, both from the environment and our relative ease in beginning the confrontation. I suppose you expected me to begin with 'it was a dark and stormy night'? Well, so did we. But it was warm, cloudless, and midafternoon. It was just Taylor and myself; Moonlight had been the target of an assassination attempt just a day prior, and Moonshine was in Canterlot seeing to his recuperation..."
"Right, right. So it was the two of ya. Go on."
"I think so. Let's start on the middle - scooping out a lot of snow at once will be easier than the smaller bits later."
"Scoop out the middle. Understood."
Flare concentrated again, drawing up a large rocky cylinder to punch a hole through the mound. Now it resembled an arch more.
[Lights, Camera, Action]
Night Jewel noticed the decline in repair quality pretty quickly. Whoops.
"...Sandy, you seem to be getting pretty stressed. Why don't you take a break and let me work on this for a while?"
TheAmishPirate
2014-02-03, 04:01 PM
With Sandy and Night Jewel
Prompter looked at Sandy with concern, tilting her head. "Are you alright?...You're awfully nervous about something."
Sandy gulped down a hard lump in his throat. "I-I, uh, th-that is...y'see..."
[Lights, Camera, Action]
Night Jewel noticed the decline in repair quality pretty quickly. Whoops.
"...Sandy, you seem to be getting pretty stressed. Why don't you take a break and let me work on this for a while?"
"...s-sure." The little engineer sighed in defeat and glumly scooted himself over. His horn lit up the fusebox for Night Jewel, and she'd find his little notes easy enough to follow. Really, it was just a matter of concentrating, and not losing your place amid the tangle of wires. No wonder the dolt colt was having such a hard time.
Speaking of, Sandy would sit silently next to her, ears pinned back and cheeks burning in shame. Would y'look at that; th' clever, capable engineer of th' Cirrus, foiled by a filly an' a fuse box. Miss Prompter, Silverpine, the Cap'n, they'd all been counting on him, and he'd let his focus waver. Now a little filly had to do his job for him, and he'd been demoted to a station worthy of his usefulness; flashlight.
Stupid, stupid Sandy...
Benson
2014-02-04, 11:05 AM
Silverpine just good-naturedly ribbed Gearstride back in the sides. "You always think of the darnest things, Captain," he replied with a smile. "Singing the chorus alone would be quite an honour for an outsider, I suppose."
"That's the spirit lieutenant, and I bet you have a lovely singing voice, the sort of make a young lass feel the vapahs," She grinned, nuzzling his cheek as they walked and talked.
Icy just tilted her head further, at Fox, before glancing back at Balboa, who no doubt would be straining to hear just what the two were whispering. "Well, hm... that is awkward... was this your plan from the beginning?"
Balboa sat like a perfect gentleman, drinking his cocoa, on the couch, though indeed he was trying to strain to hear their conversation.
"Yes...minus my father showing up of course, wanted to give the love of my life the best Hearthswarming I could give her," He said, whispering back.
===
===
Back to the Park
'Cheer up mister...don't feel down in the dumps, I prompt you not to be!" Prompter smiled, still confused a bit, but most definitely not confused when it came to a pony looking down i the dumps.
Kelvin360
2014-02-04, 07:29 PM
[Up in the Clouds]
"Heeeeey," Prose frowns at her indignantly. "I'm not old! I mean, I ain't young, but I ain't old, either! I ought to report you for that, meanie!" he playfully teases with a lazy smirk.
"You may think of it as having a superior demonstrated aptitude for prolonging the duration of your existence instead, if you prefer," Blueshield remarked.
"I could put it in haiku if you want, but she pretty much said it for me."
"Right, right. So it was the two of ya. Go on."
Killing him was never part of the plan. But then, none of our plans had worked that week. Or month. That entire year, even.
His outpost was in a hollowed-out section of a mountain; the same one Canterlot is attached to, but on the other side. There were no guards. I suppose he didn't want to risk killing us before he had the chance to meet Taylor face-to-face. No traps, either. Not at first. Just a long, dark tunnel, spiraling closer and closer to the core. The further in we went, the more the temperature increased. That mountain is dormant, but lava is dangerous no matter what the circumstances are. The walls were carved with what looked like a process that blended digging with polishing, and it was akin to the burrowing hole of a massive worm. I estimated that it alone must have set the Black Flag back months of work, and I was glad for that. More time for them meant more time for us.
At the end was a massive antechamber, almost entirely empty. A half-moon shaped stone platform overlooked the sea of lava below, but I could make out a small passage not unlike ours just off to the right, presumably an escape tunnel. At the time, I didn't know why it was so obvious. Surely he knew we would attempt to block his exit?
Zaros was in the middle of the stone platform. His sword was already drawn, the onyx blade idly cutting miniature trenches in the solid rock. He'd gone without his helmet, but the rest of his armor was in place. I grimaced. His old set was highly magic resistant, and I doubted I could do much to him. I liked my chances much more if I could get at his head, though.
We stopped perhaps five paces outside of the tunnel, putting us close enough such that I could make out the color of his eyes. Taylor and I had both seen those eyes before, though not on him. The reserved, sadistic smirk plastered on his face wasn't exactly from anypony I would refer to as a friend, either.
He tapped a hoof on the ground next to him. I assumed it was an intimidating gesture, but then I noticed the fault lines that trailed up to us and then behind where we stood. I turned, and beheld a massive pillar, with a hole the exact circumference of our tunnel through its bottommost section. Before we could so much as flinch, its structural integrity failed, and it collapsed on us, along with most of the ceiling.
I rolled to one side, narrowly avoiding the rest of the pillar, and began linking together every spell I could think of. Type didn't matter - I just needed the energy they produced. Three golden, opaque beams, connecting the ground to strategic fallout points, joined my efforts. When the dust clearer, it was just us, immobilized by the effort, keeping the sky from falling.
Zaros hadn't moved from his position, which was conspicuously far enough away to be safe from the debris if we had failed. "Now that we are on somewhat equal terms," he said, "Perhaps we can engage in more...civilized conversation."
"Pfft. No good lines on this guy? I mean, just off the top of my head, 'I have you now'. Not even some chuckling?"
"Scoop out the middle. Understood."
Flare concentrated again, drawing up a large rocky cylinder to punch a hole through the mound. Now it resembled an arch more.
"Um..." Arvadraa pokes her head through the hole, then back out. "That's fine. We need to carve out the limbs..." She moves forward, pushing the middle-bottom section of snow out, leaving an 'n' shape. "Let's...use our hooves, maybe? For finesse?"
(Apologies for the massive delay)
(Er, yes. it was supposed to be a cockpit with the lights off and no natural sunlight coming in through the front since it's underground. Think Enterprise, or maybe Megazord. Point is, it's bigger.)
Lone Star grinned as he eyed up his fillyfriend. I've got my eye on something lovelier~
Cheesy line done with, he walked forward and wrapped his wing around her, nuzzling her neck. Wanna launch it? I'm sure Wrench won't mind we took it for a spin if we never tell him.
Esmeralda just lifted a hoof to her mouth, giggling. "I like the way you think. Let's, as some like to say, rock this joint." If Lone Star would show her, then she'd proceed to start the machine up enthusiatically. :smalltongue:
"That's the spirit lieutenant, and I bet you have a lovely singing voice, the sort of make a young lass feel the vapahs," She grinned, nuzzling his cheek as they walked and talked.
Silverpine laughed, stealing a kiss on her cheek. "Ha, I wish. The best I can do is to not accidentally break a window with my voice."
Balboa sat like a perfect gentleman, drinking his cocoa, on the couch, though indeed he was trying to strain to hear their conversation.
"Yes...minus my father showing up of course, wanted to give the love of my life the best Hearthswarming I could give her," He said, whispering back.
(I assume this is happening during mid-late afternoon, which should allow them a few hours as Icy had hoped for.)
Icy sighed. A prickly conundrum indeed. On one hoof, she didn't appear rude to their guest. On the other... well, Fox. Then again... no reason they couldn't do both...
She cleared her throat, then smiled earnestly at Balboa. "Ahem, Mr Balboa, would you mind giving the two of us a couple of hours to ourselves? I'm sure we can meet up later for a lovely dinner and spend the rest of the evening drinking the night away."
HalfTangible
2014-02-06, 09:00 PM
Esmeralda just lifted a hoof to her mouth, giggling. "I like the way you think. Let's, as some like to say, rock this joint." If Lone Star would show her, then she'd proceed to start the machine up enthusiatically. :smalltongue:
[The Trojan]
He grinned and patted her cutie mark. Let's.
As the two flipped various switches and pressed glowy buttons, the machine roared to life. Displays crackled to life, displaying the integrity of the robot's various parts and revealing it to be a giant unicorn... well, alicorn if the giant rockets attached to its sides counted as wings.
"Teleporter charging."
Oh, neat. I was wondering how this thing was gonna get out.
---
[Lake]
The robot teleported into the center of the lake, a hulking goliath of incredible power.
---
[Wrench]
Feel free to interact - I'm not sure where he is.
Alert. Trojan Launched. Trojan Launched.
Wrench choked on his beer as the alarm went off, then sighed deeply. Note to self: need better security. His southern accent was as gravelly as ever.
Benson
2014-02-07, 01:46 PM
Silverpine laughed, stealing a kiss on her cheek. "Ha, I wish. The best I can do is to not accidentally break a window with my voice."
"Oooh, that would even more exciting hahah," She said nuzzling him in exchange. "Perhaps the both of us should join below average, only karaoke worthy voices together and crack some windows hahah."
Icy sighed. A prickly conundrum indeed. On one hoof, she didn't appear rude to their guest. On the other... well, Fox. Then again... no reason they couldn't do both...
She cleared her throat, then smiled earnestly at Balboa. "Ahem, Mr Balboa, would you mind giving the two of us a couple of hours to ourselves? I'm sure we can meet up later for a lovely dinner and spend the rest of the evening drinking the night away."
Balboa situated himself to feign he had not been trying to listen in on the two. "Of course my dear, it would be of no issue at all. Plus, Miss Astrid and I had some things to do around town, you know, visit the orphanage...there is an orphanage here in Bridle Shores right? I believe also something about volunteering as a shopping galleria Santa Hooves, if Miss Astrid's scheduling of activities is to be believed ho ho heh." Twas true, admittedly, Balboa's visit to Bridle Shores was to rake in some good PR among its middle class citizens. He could already imagine the newspaper taglines and reporter interviews. How often does a small town get to have a visit from Equestria's premiere philanthropist?
His visit with Fox, a bonus secondary, though still just as important.
PurityIcekiller
2014-02-08, 03:58 AM
Killing him was never part of the plan. But then, none of our plans had worked that week. Or month. That entire year, even.
His outpost was in a hollowed-out section of a mountain; the same one Canterlot is attached to, but on the other side. There were no guards. I suppose he didn't want to risk killing us before he had the chance to meet Taylor face-to-face. No traps, either. Not at first. Just a long, dark tunnel, spiraling closer and closer to the core. The further in we went, the more the temperature increased. That mountain is dormant, but lava is dangerous no matter what the circumstances are. The walls were carved with what looked like a process that blended digging with polishing, and it was akin to the burrowing hole of a massive worm. I estimated that it alone must have set the Black Flag back months of work, and I was glad for that. More time for them meant more time for us.
At the end was a massive antechamber, almost entirely empty. A half-moon shaped stone platform overlooked the sea of lava below, but I could make out a small passage not unlike ours just off to the right, presumably an escape tunnel. At the time, I didn't know why it was so obvious. Surely he knew we would attempt to block his exit?
Zaros was in the middle of the stone platform. His sword was already drawn, the onyx blade idly cutting miniature trenches in the solid rock. He'd gone without his helmet, but the rest of his armor was in place. I grimaced. His old set was highly magic resistant, and I doubted I could do much to him. I liked my chances much more if I could get at his head, though.
We stopped perhaps five paces outside of the tunnel, putting us close enough such that I could make out the color of his eyes. Taylor and I had both seen those eyes before, though not on him. The reserved, sadistic smirk plastered on his face wasn't exactly from anypony I would refer to as a friend, either.
He tapped a hoof on the ground next to him. I assumed it was an intimidating gesture, but then I noticed the fault lines that trailed up to us and then behind where we stood. I turned, and beheld a massive pillar, with a hole the exact circumference of our tunnel through its bottommost section. Before we could so much as flinch, its structural integrity failed, and it collapsed on us, along with most of the ceiling.
I rolled to one side, narrowly avoiding the rest of the pillar, and began linking together every spell I could think of. Type didn't matter - I just needed the energy they produced. Three golden, opaque beams, connecting the ground to strategic fallout points, joined my efforts. When the dust clearer, it was just us, immobilized by the effort, keeping the sky from falling.
Zaros hadn't moved from his position, which was conspicuously far enough away to be safe from the debris if we had failed. "Now that we are on somewhat equal terms," he said, "Perhaps we can engage in more...civilized conversation."
"Pfft. No good lines on this guy? I mean, just off the top of my head, 'I have you now'. Not even some chuckling?"
As soon as Starbeam mentioned the magma lake, Blades got a smirk. She had a feeling she knew where the story was going.
"Not a real creative type, was he." She gave a nod to Stellar. "Not easy to come up with a snappy comeback when he just gives ya that to work with. What did ya do next?"
"Um..." Arvadraa pokes her head through the hole, then back out. "That's fine. We need to carve out the limbs..." She moves forward, pushing the middle-bottom section of snow out, leaving an 'n' shape. "Let's...use our hooves, maybe? For finesse?"
"Finesse... I was not aware that it would be needed. It is not what I am best at. But I will try."
Flare began scooping out snow from the middle until the form had four crude legs. She nearly caused it to collapse by taking away too much snow, but stopped it with a hoof before it was too late.
[Re-Fusal]
Not having any other fillies to tease and distract her, Night Jewel didn't have much trouble. "Now, which parts had you finished again? Hmm... Oh, that's how this bit has to go! And these wires have to switch..."
She decided to leave comforting Sandy to Prompter, seeing what her previous attempts had managed.
[The Trojan]
He grinned and patted her cutie mark. Let's.
As the two flipped various switches and pressed glowy buttons, the machine roared to life. Displays crackled to life, displaying the integrity of the robot's various parts and revealing it to be a giant unicorn... well, alicorn if the giant rockets attached to its sides counted as wings.
"Teleporter charging."
Oh, neat. I was wondering how this thing was gonna get out.
[Lake]
The robot teleported into the center of the lake, a hulking goliath of incredible power.
"Um... how do we steer?" Esmeralda said, as she experimentally tried the joystick. Whatever she did, it was enough to send the robot unicorn diving into the lake with a massive splash.
"... ops."
[Wrench]
Feel free to interact - I'm not sure where he is.
Alert. Trojan Launched. Trojan Launched.
Wrench choked on his beer as the alarm went off, then sighed deeply. Note to self: need better security. His southern accent was as gravelly as ever.
[Shell Shock]
"Oy. I thought ya already scrapped that thing," Shell Shock remarked, as he himself took a swing off his bottle of whisky.
"Oooh, that would even more exciting hahah," She said nuzzling him in exchange. "Perhaps the both of us should join below average, only karaoke worthy voices together and crack some windows hahah."
"Ha, that'll be the day." When the pair reached the dressing room storage/closet or wherever they stored clothes, Silverpine would begin picking out their costume and appropriate accessories, and then change into them.
Soon enough, a proper earth pony peasant stood before the captain.
Balboa situated himself to feign he had not been trying to listen in on the two. "Of course my dear, it would be of no issue at all. Plus, Miss Astrid and I had some things to do around town, you know, visit the orphanage...there is an orphanage here in Bridle Shores right? I believe also something about volunteering as a shopping galleria Santa Hooves, if Miss Astrid's scheduling of activities is to be believed ho ho heh." Twas true, admittedly, Balboa's visit to Bridle Shores was to rake in some good PR among its middle class citizens. He could already imagine the newspaper taglines and reporter interviews. How often does a small town get to have a visit from Equestria's premiere philanthropist?
His visit with Fox, a bonus secondary, though still just as important.
Icy obviously wouldn't be privy to any of Balboa's schedule. :smalltongue: So instead, she nodded happily, and went to lean against Fox. "My thanks, Mr Balboa. Shall we meet here at say... eight o'clock?"
TheAmishPirate
2014-02-08, 12:22 PM
Back to the Park
'Cheer up mister...don't feel down in the dumps, I prompt you not to be!" Prompter smiled, still confused a bit, but most definitely not confused when it came to a pony looking down i the dumps.
Sandy put on a wan smile for the mare, but cheery words couldn't fix failures. "Th-thanks, ma'am." He turned his attention back to being a good little flashlight, while silently continuing his personal pity party.
HalfTangible
2014-02-08, 02:05 PM
"Um... how do we steer?" Esmeralda said, as she experimentally tried the joystick. Whatever she did, it was enough to send the robot unicorn diving into the lake with a massive splash.
"... ops."[The Robot]
I think it's this thing? Lone Star pushed a lever forward.
A giant laser shot out of the horn.
Lone Star quickly put the lever back down. Wrong lever. He pointed to the booth. Maybe it runs by thought, go stand in the booth, see if it responds to mental commands.
Spoiler: It can, but doesn't right now because it's on manual control.
[Shell Shock]
"Oy. I thought ya already scrapped that thing," Shell Shock remarked, as he himself took a swing off his bottle of whisky.
[Wrench and Shell Shock]
It's a 50 foot robot, ya cain't just 'scrap' somethin' that huge. 'sides, figured it'd be good fer the next time we get invaded. He pulled out a (recognizable) remote, put a coin in and began hitting various buttons on it. Jus' need to see who's- OH FOR THE LOVE OF CRAP, YOU?!
Oh! Uh... hi there, Wrench!
[The Robot. Again.]
Hope you don't mind, but we kinda borrowed your giant robot for Hearth's Warming. Lone Star called out, looking for the controls.
I c'n see that, ya thievin' varmint! Wrench's voice echoed in the cockpit, though there was no visual.
I prefer the term 'sexy beast' or 'Lil troublemaker' or 'stupid jackass'.
Lycan 01
2014-02-08, 10:55 PM
[Up in the Clouds]
Blueshield put a hoof to her forehead. "Mr. Prose, I am less inclined to accept correction of my assumptions if you immediately contradict said correction. One moment, you find it insulting to be considered less capable than you truly are, but it is an advantage the next?"
"Ah, but there's a difference," Prose idly corrects Blueshield with an aloof shrug. "Perhaps it is not easy to explain, but the way I feel it, there's nothing wrong with ponies underestimating you, and simply thinking you not as competent as you truly are because of laziness on your part. But when ponies overtly accuse you of being weak or unskilled, or belittle the obvious efforts you have taken and sacrifices you have made-" he pauses to point at the Shadowbolt dogtag around his neck, and the eyepatch that covers the side of his face where an ocular organ should be, before smirking, "-I tend find that a wee bit on the annoying side."
"Better to be thought a fool than directly called a fool, I suppose you could say," he muses.
"You may think of it as having a superior demonstrated aptitude for prolonging the duration of your existence instead, if you prefer," Blueshield remarked.
"I could put it in haiku if you want, but she pretty much said it for me."
The batpony snickers, before cutting another lazy backflip.
"Long lived batpony,
Lazily aloft up high,
Does not care for death," he quips with a crooked smirk.
Benson
2014-02-09, 02:15 AM
Sandy put on a wan smile for the mare, but cheery words couldn't fix failures. "Th-thanks, ma'am." He turned his attention back to being a good little flashlight, while silently continuing his personal pity party.
[Re-Fusal]
Not having any other fillies to tease and distract her, Night Jewel didn't have much trouble. "Now, which parts had you finished again? Hmm... Oh, that's how this bit has to go! And these wires have to switch..."
She decided to leave comforting Sandy to Prompter, seeing what her previous attempts had managed.
A minor zap here and there, nothing too bad, maybe Sandy just really was unlucky. A moment later Night Jewel would find herself with a nicely, properly organized light switch/box, wires where they needed to be, color coded, all that groovy jazz.
==============
"Ha, that'll be the day." When the pair reached the dressing room storage/closet or wherever they stored clothes, Silverpine would begin picking out their costume and appropriate accessories, and then change into them.
Soon enough, a proper earth pony peasant stood before the captain.
"Hoooo weeee...you is one handsome peasant hahah," She laughed and dug her hoof into the snowy ground until she hit dirt. She then took dirty hoof and smeared dirt over Silverpine's muzzle and cheek. "There you go, perfect!"
There were other ponies around, getting fitted for costumes, peasant clothing for earth ponies, Romane styled armor for pegasi, fine noble clothing for unicorns. Two pegasi were fake fighting with wooden swords, holding them in between their teeth. Four fitted earth ponies were chatting amongst themselves, holding mugs of cider in their hooves. Whilst a few unicorns levitated scripts in front of their faces and practiced what few lines they had with each other.
A moment later Silverpine and Gearstride would be approached by an average body typed earth pony stallion with a youthful face. He had a dark powder blue coat with dark blue freckles on his muzzle and a blue-green mane that curled up towards the bottom. On his head was a big ol pudding inspired hat. He was also dressed sporting a big frilly collar, a brown and creamy tan regalia, and a pink bowtie on his flank.
"Hiya! You two in the play? Haha what am I saying, of course you are, this is gonna be awesome! Hi!...Name is Idle Chat, pleasure ta meet and greet ya!" The stallion said with a big ol smile after taking a moment to breath. He proceeded to shake both Silverpine's and Gearstride's hoof, though not at the same time.
====
Icy obviously wouldn't be privy to any of Balboa's schedule. :smalltongue: So instead, she nodded happily, and went to lean against Fox. "My thanks, Mr Balboa. Shall we meet here at say... eight o'clock?"
"Of course my dear, I shall be promptly here at eight, on the dot, that, I claim on my honor as a gentlecolt." Balboa said with a gentlecolt's bow as Fox rolled his eyes.
"Whelp, Miss Astrid, we ought to be on our way, let these two love birds have their...time alone." He winked as Astrid pocketed away her small violin as she herself gave a small bow as she then bowed out. Balboa would follow suit.
When Balboa was gone, Fox flopped to the ground and placed his fore hooves over his temples. "Ugh....I swear he....everything he does just gets on my nerves."
Kelvin360
2014-02-09, 03:09 AM
"It's not too late to surrender, Zaros." Taylor said. His words were strained, and not from concentration. Even I wasn't sure whether he still meant it. His eyes were constantly rolling between the emotions of desperation and hatred.
We exchanged a glance, an unspoken conversation, and I nodded, redoubling my efforts to hold up the ceiling. He released his constructs, and it quite literally felt like holding up the sky. If the pressure hadn't been entirely mental, I'm certain that my spine would have snapped immediately.
Taylor stepped forward, gathering his energy for the worst to come. "We-" He was cut off by a swift motion, executed with such alacrity that I almost didn't see it. Zaros broke several spikes off from his armor and threw them with the same smooth movement. Taylor summoned a glowing orb of protective energy, but it was unnecessary. The knives sunk into my chest, breaking my concentration.
I have an old amulet I was wearing at the time to thank for my continued existence. If it hadn't been under my robes, at least one of the spikes would have dug into my heart. As it was, I still had to operate with a punctured lung and an impaled trachea from that point forward. I acted quickly, reproducing my shield to its fullest extent, but the debris had come closer to the ground by almost a full meter. I began moving forward, slowly, so that I could dive forward and release the spell without being crushed, if that became necessary.
Taylor could only afford me a single glance of horror, but he knew that if he turned entirely, it could mean his death. "I really don't care for more of your misguided moralizing. It is neither truthful nor relevant, and I am on a schedule."
Taylor took another step forward. "Celestia's gaze, do you even know what you're doing? Who did Beacon tell you I was, exactly?"
"He told me that you would claim familial ties." Zaros said casually. "Which would be a lie, as you well know. Both of my parents are dead. Both by your hooves. What exactly do you have to complain about? That you have not caused me enough pain yet?"
I saw Taylor go slack, and then every muscle in his body tightened. "That's what he told you?!" He screamed. "He killed Silver because he wanted a twisted scion for his new world order! He murdered your mother when she wasn't a good little PAWN anymore! And he would have done the same to you if I hadn't-!"
I tried to shout a warning, but there was still a spike in my throat. My gurgling went unheard as Taylor's next hoofstep struck firmly on an arcane sigil. A jolt went up his body as it cracked and faded, but nothing appeared to have happened.
"Cute trap." He growled. "Bet you didn't expect a spell ward, though."
He paused, and I wasn't sure why. Then Zaros' smile widened. "That depends; did you have a backup plan in case I disabled your magical abilities?"
He stepped forward and hit Taylor with his sword so hard that he slammed into the wall next to me - almost twenty meters. At that moment, I began mentally preparing to die. I hadn't seen anypony do that in combat except Moonshine up to that point, and she's easily physically the strongest pony I've ever known. A massive gash had opened in Taylor's left side. Thanks to his shield, it wasn't immediately fatal, but he needed medical attention that I feared he was no longer in a position to provide himself. Something happened afterwards that I didn't expect. I realized that the part of me preparing for death was formulating backup plans essentially without my consent. I grabbed a hold of my psyche and told that section to focus on holding up the ceiling.
Being of two minds, literally, is...hard to describe. It's like multitasking, but your body is under the control of two independent entities. Both sides know what the other is doing, and neither operates unless in tandem, but it still feels as though you are performing one task and a stranger is taking hold of another, using parts of you. It is...exhilarating, but terrifying. I broke a section of my spell apart and put a shield in front of Taylor. It's a simple spell, and doesn't require much energy. It acts like my Spell Turning enchantment, but for material objects. It takes kinetic energy and turns it into negative inertia on impact. It doesn't negate the attack entirely and has no effect on large objects, but it was the best I could do. Sure enough, Zaros' next attack was more spikes. They left bruises, but largely bounced off of Taylor's hide. I realized that the villain wasn't willing to get closer to us, as he would run the risk of being crushed if I released control.
I feel obliged to point out that I was in shock and didn't have full control of my mental faculties. Namely because antimagic is proven to be impossible. It's not even a hard conclusion to reach - in order to generate an antimagic spell, you have to use some sort of magic, which would be disabled by the process. I suspected that he'd simply used some kind of suppressant, which meant that Taylor wasn't powerless, just weakened. I felt a jolt I'd only known once before, and knew that he had allowed me control of Aurora, his soulblade, since he couldn't summon it himself. I knew then that even if it meant our deaths, I wouldn't use it. The strain in his condition would kill him. Unless...
And I saw that behind the mask he was wearing, Taylor was smiling. I understood. Aurora is powered by deep recesses of magical energy, where core magic meets primal magic. Essentially, what we call the 'soul' and what we know as magic become one there. But if his magic was dampened, then the blade wouldn't be able to affect his health as adversely, if at all. But even with my two minds, I couldn't use the blade and hold up the ceiling at the same time. We needed to get out from under it. But I knew Taylor well enough to know that he was watching my hooves. The instant I was clear, he would make certain that he would be, as well.
Less than thirty seconds into the battle, and he was already at least two steps ahead of our opponent. That would be why he leads our team.
"I can quite literally do this all day." Zaros stated, bouncing another few spikes intermittently off of Taylor's skin and shield. "I have no shortage of ammunition."
"Really? I thought you were on a schedule." Taylor drew his mace and braced a hind leg against the wall, keeping it hidden behind his shield. "Or did you just mean that you needed to play for time so that Notation could divvy out the Soul Crystal?"
Zaros almost dropped his next barrage. "What..."
"It was actually really obvious." Taylor said. "Your stated goal is to kill Celestia and Luna, and that method has been tried five times. It got REALLY blinding when you targeted Rigs. You nabbed some of my blood a while ago, you just needed a little essence from a Moon Devotee to set all the ingredients in order."
"Thing is, there are a LOT of ponies who venerate Luna. Not to the same degree, but still more than a few. You just went after him to tick me off. That's a lot less mature than anything Beacon would have come up with, so I know it was on your initiative."
"Now that you are done stating the obvious..." His tone betrayed some of his annoyance.
"Wait! It gets...nnh...better. It's not going to work, and Notation doesn't know that. Neither do you."
"What?!"
"You seriously think you can just steal something like that from Canterlot? Both sisters had about a hundred wards up within seconds of it falling into your hooves. Now it's pretty, but that's about it."
Zaros looked ready to charge, but his willpower kept the reflex in check. Fortunately, his focus blinded him to my approach. "Then why are you even here? Surely you did not then an attempt to kill me-"
"I don't want to kill you."
All noise in the room ceased. Zaros blinked, not that the declaration, but the tone behind it. It was clear to all of us that any facade Taylor had maintained up to that point had ended, in favor of real pain. "Even if I believed you, surely you cannot think-"
"Your only crime is being raised and brainwashed by a madpony. And that's MY fault, not yours. Anything Beacon left behind is ashes, now. It's your show, and you don't have to worry about the pain of his disfavor anymore. I don't want to kill you." He choked. "I just want my son back."
I was at the edge by that point, just outside minimum safe distance. But I waited to see if diplomacy would prevail. Certainly something seemed to have taken hold. The warlord looked torn between...something. It was difficult to say what. He sighed, hanging his head. "It matters little what you believe, Morninglord. Your son is dead. You will be too, soon. I will not allow this setback to put an end to my goals. This goes beyond you. It is a matter of the world's sake."
That sold it. I saw him raise his blade and leaped forward, tapping into a vast reserve of power that wasn't mine. It required verbal confirmation, so I gave it. Blood poured out of my mouth, and I'm not entirely sure it was intelligible, but the message was still clear in its essence.
"Aurora Borealis, motherbucker."
"WOAH! You actually SAID that?! That is so cool! How much of his face did you take off?"
Starbeam appears caught between pride and discomfort. "Well, Aurora causes wounds that don't ever fully heal. He still has a scar across his right cheek. I, ah, think that's why he still wears the helmet whenever I'm around."
---
Arvadraa quietly shifts some of the snow, smoothing out the rough edges in an attempt to make the facsimile more structurally sound. "So, erm...do you think we're bonding? I mean, that's what this is for, supposedly."
---
"After such dangers
Does the hero fear the grave
Or merely the thought?" Snowstorm asks.
"Then again, something tells me all of us...Hold duties where we face death far too much." She furrows her brow. "Something also tells me swapping to Iambic Pentameter is a little too basic to fully impress you."
"Hoooo weeee...you is one handsome peasant hahah," She laughed and dug her hoof into the snowy ground until she hit dirt. She then took dirty hoof and smeared dirt over Silverpine's muzzle and cheek. "There you go, perfect!"
Silverpine tried his best not too flinch. Lieutenant didn't really like getting dirty very much. :smalltongue: One learn to value hygiene after getting soaked one too many times in worm goo.
There were other ponies around, getting fitted for costumes, peasant clothing for earth ponies, Romane styled armor for pegasi, fine noble clothing for unicorns. Two pegasi were fake fighting with wooden swords, holding them in between their teeth. Four fitted earth ponies were chatting amongst themselves, holding mugs of cider in their hooves. Whilst a few unicorns levitated scripts in front of their faces and practiced what few lines they had with each other.
A moment later Silverpine and Gearstride would be approached by an average body typed earth pony stallion with a youthful face. He had a dark powder blue coat with dark blue freckles on his muzzle and a blue-green mane that curled up towards the bottom. On his head was a big ol pudding inspired hat. He was also dressed sporting a big frilly collar, a brown and creamy tan regalia, and a pink bowtie on his flank.
"Hiya! You two in the play? Haha what am I saying, of course you are, this is gonna be awesome! Hi!...Name is Idle Chat, pleasure ta meet and greet ya!" The stallion said with a big ol smile after taking a moment to breath. He proceeded to shake both Silverpine's and Gearstride's hoof, though not at the same time.
"Pleased to meet you. Name's Silverpine. This lovely lady here's Lady Adventura Gearstride. Or Captain, she likes to call herself," Silverpine said as they shook hooves. "I see you're our star of the show?"
"Of course my dear, I shall be promptly here at eight, on the dot, that, I claim on my honor as a gentlecolt." Balboa said with a gentlecolt's bow as Fox rolled his eyes.
"Whelp, Miss Astrid, we ought to be on our way, let these two love birds have their...time alone." He winked as Astrid pocketed away her small violin as she herself gave a small bow as she then bowed out. Balboa would follow suit.
When Balboa was gone, Fox flopped to the ground and placed his fore hooves over his temples. "Ugh....I swear he....everything he does just gets on my nerves."
Icy dropped to a sitting position by Fox's side and nuzzled him gently. "Fox... it's just one day..."
[The Robot]
I think it's this thing? Lone Star pushed a lever forward.
A giant laser shot out of the horn.
Lone Star quickly put the lever back down. Wrong lever. He pointed to the booth. Maybe it runs by thought, go stand in the booth, see if it responds to mental commands.
Spoiler: It can, but doesn't right now because it's on manual control.
Esmeralda winced as the laser set a tree by the lake on fire. Likely it was just a tree, but for all she knew it might someone's favourite apple tree or something. She really, really, didn't want to get sentenced back into Icy's head.
That said, she quickly made her way to the booth and thought really, really, hard. Frowning, she leaned against the glass and tried making grand, sweeping gestures. "Star. It's not working."
[Wrench and Shell Shock]
It's a 50 foot robot, ya cain't just 'scrap' somethin' that huge. 'sides, figured it'd be good fer the next time we get invaded. He pulled out a (recognizable) remote, put a coin in and began hitting various buttons on it. Jus' need to see who's- OH FOR THE LOVE OF CRAP, YOU?!
Oh! Uh... hi there, Wrench!
[The Robot. Again.]
Hope you don't mind, but we kinda borrowed your giant robot for Hearth's Warming. Lone Star called out, looking for the controls.
I c'n see that, ya thievin' varmint! Wrench's voice echoed in the cockpit, though there was no visual.
I prefer the term 'sexy beast' or 'Lil troublemaker' or 'stupid jackass'.
"We'll be sure to return it in one piece!" Esmeralda called out. :smalltongue:
[Wrench & Shell Shock]
"Well, doncha have a thingamajig to shut it down?" the demopony idly commented, leaning forward with interest to listen closer to the voices coming out of the remote.
HalfTangible
2014-02-09, 10:12 PM
Esmeralda winced as the laser set a tree by the lake on fire. Likely it was just a tree, but for all she knew it might someone's favourite apple tree or something. She really, really, didn't want to get sentenced back into Icy's head.
That said, she quickly made her way to the booth and thought really, really, hard. Frowning, she leaned against the glass and tried making grand, sweeping gestures. "Star. It's not working."
"We'll be sure to return it in one piece!" Esmeralda called out. :smalltongue:
It's a gigant'c robot, a'course it'll be in one piece!!
Lone Star flipped a bunch of levers and pushed some buttons at random. Uh, let's see, which one of these pulls up the manual... ah, here we go!
The glass case Es was in suddenly turned opaque, and various manuals popped up on screen. Quick, gimme a button and lever!
[Wrench & Shell Shock]
"Well, doncha have a thingamajig to shut it down?" the demopony idly commented, leaning forward with interest to listen closer to the voices coming out of the remote.
Wrench muted the voice for the communicator so Star and Es couldn't hear. Well yeah, but then the communicator and tracking systems shut down too. Need to find where it is first. He showed Shell Shock a second remote that looked to be calculating the robot's position. Moment I do, gonna go tag 'em and bag 'em. Then he grinned. Wanna come along? It'll be jus' like ol' times. The mare's even blue.
Benson
2014-02-09, 10:29 PM
Silverpine tried his best not too flinch. Lieutenant didn't really like getting dirty very much. :smalltongue: One learn to value hygiene after getting soaked one too many times in worm goo.
"Pleased to meet you. Name's Silverpine. This lovely lady here's Lady Adventura Gearstride. Or Captain, she likes to call herself," Silverpine said as they shook hooves. "I see you're our star of the show?"
"Love your hat heheh," Gearstride said with a playful smirk.
"Hehe, it is groovy ain't it?....Kinda makin me hungry...." The stallion's thoughts wandered for a moment before snapping out of it. "Kinda....I mean...I share the spotlight with five others. I just hope I do well enough that others like it." He said with a warm if bashful smile. "My first time on a real stage....not some kiddy healthy foods pageant like when I was a foal and dressed up as a carrot." He chuckled in mirth.
Icy dropped to a sitting position by Fox's side and nuzzled him gently. "Fox... it's just one day..."
"Maybe....but who knows....he may end up thinking that he has his hoof in the door to start trying to get involved in my life..." He sighed. Oh how little you know Foxy.
TheAmishPirate
2014-02-09, 10:33 PM
[/SIZE]
A minor zap here and there, nothing too bad, maybe Sandy just really was unlucky. A moment later Night Jewel would find herself with a nicely, properly organized light switch/box, wires where they needed to be, color coded, all that groovy jazz.
"That it?" Sandy asked, flicking off his horn-light. Even though the job was finished...failure still haunted his hooves. The little stallion hardly trusted himself to flip the switch and test out Night Jewel's handiwork.
PurityIcekiller
2014-02-10, 12:58 AM
"WOAH! You actually SAID that?! That is so cool! How much of his face did you take off?"
Starbeam appears caught between pride and discomfort. "Well, Aurora causes wounds that don't ever fully heal. He still has a scar across his right cheek. I, ah, think that's why he still wears the helmet whenever I'm around."
Blades continued listening for a while, but rapidly lost interest once Starbeam started talking about magical workings and the second set of dialogue. Instead, she took out what appeared to be a knife with three blades and tossed it idly.
Fortunately, before she could murder either of her companions, something else caught her attention. "Huh! Ya need a spell to do that? I've seen ponies get lots of things that don't heal. Cut marks, burn marks, bent bones, decapitation, 'n things like that. 'N if ya lose the magic in a magic-less sword, it's still just as good, right? 'N come to think of it, those spikes don't really need magic either, 'n a nice chestplate could've helped a good deal there..."
Arvadraa quietly shifts some of the snow, smoothing out the rough edges in an attempt to make the facsimile more structurally sound. "So, erm...do you think we're bonding? I mean, that's what this is for, supposedly."
"I do not know. I appreciate your help and guidance, but I am unsure if that is how it's supposed to work."
Flare gathered up a fairly large snowball, then placed it on top of the front end. "I assume this can be the head?"
"Ah, but there's a difference," Prose idly corrects Blueshield with an aloof shrug. "Perhaps it is not easy to explain, but the way I feel it, there's nothing wrong with ponies underestimating you, and simply thinking you not as competent as you truly are because of laziness on your part. But when ponies overtly accuse you of being weak or unskilled, or belittle the obvious efforts you have taken and sacrifices you have made-" he pauses to point at the Shadowbolt dogtag around his neck, and the eyepatch that covers the side of his face where an ocular organ should be, before smirking, "-I tend find that a wee bit on the annoying side."
"Better to be thought a fool than directly called a fool, I suppose you could say," he muses.
"And since I so clearly and plainly stated that I thought you a goldbrick, a goof-off, no good, you felt insulted," Blueshield said in a heavily sarcastic tone. "I made no judgements of you as an individual and your capabilities. Rather, I..."
She hesitated a bit, not as sure of herself now. "...To be truthful, it was about me. I suspected my statement might come across as advocating negligence of one's obligations, and overcorrected. I had no intentions of creating a perception of me as unfaithful to my purpose. It was protecting my own reputation, not an accusation against you."
The batpony snickers, before cutting another lazy backflip.
"Long lived batpony,
Lazily aloft up high,
Does not care for death," he quips with a crooked smirk.
"After such dangers
Does the hero fear the grave
Or merely the thought?" Snowstorm asks.
"Then again, something tells me all of us...Hold duties where we face death far too much." She furrows her brow. "Something also tells me swapping to Iambic Pentameter is a little too basic to fully impress you."
Blueshield shook her head. "I was never a specialist with poetic composition myself. I shall refrain from contributing in that area."
A minor zap here and there, nothing too bad, maybe Sandy just really was unlucky. A moment later Night Jewel would find herself with a nicely, properly organized light switch/box, wires where they needed to be, color coded, all that groovy jazz.
"That it?" Sandy asked, flicking off his horn-light. Even though the job was finished...failure still haunted his hooves. The little stallion hardly trusted himself to flip the switch and test out Night Jewel's handiwork.
"Yes, all done. This should work splendidly."
Night Jewel stepped back from the box and smiled at the others. "That was fun. I've always loved tinkering with devices like this. So, is there anything else to be done here?"
It's a gigant'c robot, a'course it'll be in one piece!!
Lone Star flipped a bunch of levers and pushed some buttons at random. Uh, let's see, which one of these pulls up the manual... ah, here we go!
The glass case Es was in suddenly turned opaque, and various manuals popped up on screen. Quick, gimme a button and lever!
Esmeralda blinked as thousands of lines of words suddenly swirled into focus in front of her. "Umm.... just a moment," she called out, her eyes skimming each page quickly. "Ah... that red button over there. That should activate main engines."
Though with the rocket engines on the robot currently being pointed downwards, the effect should be interesting...
Wrench muted the voice for the communicator so Star and Es couldn't hear. Well yeah, but then the communicator and tracking systems shut down too. Need to find where it is first. He showed Shell Shock a second remote that looked to be calculating the robot's position. Moment I do, gonna go tag 'em and bag 'em. Then he grinned. Wanna come along? It'll be jus' like ol' times. The mare's even blue.
Shell Shock hummed thoughtfully. "Yeah well... I'm not sure aboot hurtin' a wee lass. I mean, it jus' isn't right."
"Love your hat heheh," Gearstride said with a playful smirk.
"Hehe, it is groovy ain't it?....Kinda makin me hungry...." The stallion's thoughts wandered for a moment before snapping out of it. "Kinda....I mean...I share the spotlight with five others. I just hope I do well enough that others like it." He said with a warm if bashful smile. "My first time on a real stage....not some kiddy healthy foods pageant like when I was a foal and dressed up as a carrot." He chuckled in mirth.
"I'm sure you'd do well, mister," Silverpine said with an encouraging smile. "Just remember yer lines and you should be good."
"Maybe....but who knows....he may end up thinking that he has his hoof in the door to start trying to get involved in my life..." He sighed. Oh how little you know Foxy.
Icy leaned in to kiss Fox's cheek. "Well, we'll deal with it when the time comes. I do recall you have something planned?" she said with a faint smile.
Benson
2014-02-11, 11:54 AM
"That it?" Sandy asked, flicking off his horn-light. Even though the job was finished...failure still haunted his hooves. The little stallion hardly trusted himself to flip the switch and test out Night Jewel's handiwork.
"Yes, all done. This should work splendidly."
Night Jewel stepped back from the box and smiled at the others. "That was fun. I've always loved tinkering with devices like this. So, is there anything else to be done here?"
"I think that was really the major issue....which I feel silly about," Prompter said bashfully, ears pinned back. "But I guess now with just little things, maybe you two can be ushers for patrons, showing them to their seats, we got some cute vest uniforms for that oooh weeee!" Her cheerful attitude returned.
"I'm sure you'd do well, mister," Silverpine said with an encouraging smile. "Just remember yer lines and you should be good."
He tapped his head and nodded. "Got them all in here. Name's Idle Chat by the way, I am actually guard here and town but...I couldn't pass up this opportunity to try out for the play ya know? I do love talkin hahah."
"Your parents named you well then heheh," Gearstride commented.
Icy leaned in to kiss Fox's cheek. "Well, we'll deal with it when the time comes. I do recall you have something planned?" she said with a faint smile.
Her kisses and nuzzling did seem to have an effect on him. He faintly smiled and smooched her muzzle. "You're right.." He looked at the clock. "I hope the carriage guy got here in time."
TheAmishPirate
2014-02-11, 09:36 PM
"I think that was really the major issue....which I feel silly about," Prompter said bashfully, ears pinned back. "But I guess now with just little things, maybe you two can be ushers for patrons, showing them to their seats, we got some cute vest uniforms for that oooh weeee!" Her cheerful attitude returned.
Sandy's ears pricked up. "Y'need ushers? Now that, I know I can handle." A fresh assignment before him, the little stallion was born anew. He straightened his floppy hat authoritatively, tidied up his wooly scarf, and stomped a hoof on the ground as he stood to attention. "Sandy Shores, Junior Usher First Class, reportin' for duty Miss Prompter!"
He tapped his head and nodded. "Got them all in here. Name's Idle Chat by the way, I am actually guard here and town but...I couldn't pass up this opportunity to try out for the play ya know? I do love talkin hahah."
"Your parents named you well then heheh," Gearstride commented.
(I think Idle's syntax got a little messed up there. :smalltongue: )
"Must be fun, being a guard. Getting to talking to ponies all the time," Silverpine added, smirking. "Are you one of those desk-guards, or do you go on patrol?"
Her kisses and nuzzling did seem to have an effect on him. He faintly smiled and smooched her muzzle. "You're right.." He looked at the clock. "I hope the carriage guy got here in time."
"Well, where and when was he supposed to be picking us up?" Icy asked, leaning against him.
[Tyrol and Co.]
Twas' a dimly lighted, but homely pub, the kind that you could find in any small town. The redoubtable trio found themselves sitting in corner, cider bottle already lined up on the table.
"Told you she wouldn't come," Tyrol said, as he glanced at the clock at the bar.
"Well, maybe she just had something to do before coming here," Lemongrass muttered half-heartedly.
Staccata, presumably was also sitting with them.
HalfTangible
2014-02-11, 09:43 PM
Esmeralda blinked as thousands of lines of words suddenly swirled into focus in front of her. "Umm.... just a moment," she called out, her eyes skimming each page quickly. "Ah... that red button over there. That should activate main engines."
Though with the rocket engines on the robot currently being pointed downwards, the effect should be interesting...
The unicorn's legs began walking. However, since the legs were in the air, it didn't do much.
... Huh. Where's the stand butto-
The robot turned and stood.
Ah, there we go... wait, 'mind control' button? What does that do?
Es felt her body fall limp, and could feel she was in control of the robot with her thoughts.
---
Fair enough. Think she's pregnant anyway. Wrench turned the voice system back on. Git the hell outta my robot!
But we didn't even get to make out in it yet!...... I mean, take the robot for a spin.
Wrench facehoofed.
MCerberus
2014-02-12, 01:15 AM
[Tyrol and Co.]
Twas' a dimly lighted, but homely pub, the kind that you could find in any small town. The redoubtable trio found themselves sitting in corner, cider bottle already lined up on the table.
"Told you she wouldn't come," Tyrol said, as he glanced at the clock at the bar.
"Well, maybe she just had something to do before coming here," Lemongrass muttered half-heartedly.
Staccata, presumably was also sitting with them.
Staccata was indeed there. Of course she was busy not telling them about any of the information trade that goes on here... well it's been more here than it was before. Somepony has been sending missives and that costs coin and that brings in more ponies.
But anyway, some of the regulars may or may not be uncomfortable with Staccata present with two guards.
"You never did tell me who exactly you'd meet at a place like this."
The unicorn's legs began walking. However, since the legs were in the air, it didn't do much.
... Huh. Where's the stand butto-
The robot turned and stood.
Ah, there we go... wait, 'mind control' button? What does that do?
Es felt her body fall limp, and could feel she was in control of the robot with her thoughts.
Esmeralda blinked. Or rather, she thought she was blinking. One moment she was busy trying to flip through the bewildering array of words that had lined up on the screen. The next, it felt like something reached out and plucked her soul out of her body. Almost. Dimly, she could still feel herself standing. Or was she? Lone Star was saying something, but all she could hear was a blur.
She blinked again. And her vision suddenly switched to a panorama of the lake. Almost like... like she was floating in mid air. Like she was now seeing through the eyes... Esmeralda's lips curled up in a smile.
"Hey, Star. Watch this," she could hear herself say faintly.
The robot suddenly surged downwards and landed on the sandy shores of the lake with a loud whump.
Fair enough. Think she's pregnant anyway. Wrench turned the voice system back on. Git the hell outta my robot!
But we didn't even get to make out in it yet!...... I mean, take the robot for a spin.
Wrench facehoofed.
"Aww... aren't they such a sweet couple~" Shell Shock chuckled. Likely this would earn him Wrench's evil eye. :smalltongue:
Staccata was indeed there. Of course she was busy not telling them about any of the information trade that goes on here... well it's been more here than it was before. Somepony has been sending missives and that costs coin and that brings in more ponies.
But anyway, some of the regulars may or may not be uncomfortable with Staccata present with two guards.
"You never did tell me who exactly you'd meet at a place like this."
Lemongrass was a little too busy sulking to notice the odd glances shot their way. Well, it wasn't like he wasn't used to it. Him and Dreamrunner probably invited many more stares.
Tyrol shrugged. "Well, you know that paladin fellow... no not the one in black armour, the other haughty one... umm... Knight-Commander Blueshield was it? Well, anyway, Lemongrass was betting twenty bits that he could get her drunk." He glanced at the glum pegasus slumped at the table, and chuckled. "Looks like I'm going to collect."
"Not yet!" Lemongrass insisted.
"Sure, you keep telling yourself that."
Benson
2014-02-12, 12:05 PM
(I think Idle's syntax got a little messed up there. :smalltongue: )
"Must be fun, being a guard. Getting to talking to ponies all the time," Silverpine added, smirking. "Are you one of those desk-guards, or do you go on patrol?"
(I dont know what happened xD)
"Patrolin' guard, though mostly gate guard, usually the west gate, our busiest gate for some reason," He had a thoughtful look on his face and tapped his chin. "Anyways, seen all kinds of crazy things, ponies, invaders, gosh...it does make me wonder why anyone would want ta invade ol Bridle Shores...we're just a normal, peaceful town with a military outpost." He said without a hint of irony.
"Well, where and when was he supposed to be picking us up?" Icy asked, leaning against him.
"Right about now...here," He softly said stealing another kiss. "Dang, I never get tired of stealing them kisses from you." He sat up and softly sighed, urgh it was so stressful having Balboa around. He was glad to have gotten rid of the stallion before he wound up making the carriage puller wait for a long while.
Lycan 01
2014-02-12, 08:28 PM
"And since I so clearly and plainly stated that I thought you a goldbrick, a goof-off, no good, you felt insulted," Blueshield said in a heavily sarcastic tone. "I made no judgements of you as an individual and your capabilities. Rather, I..."
She hesitated a bit, not as sure of herself now. "...To be truthful, it was about me. I suspected my statement might come across as advocating negligence of one's obligations, and overcorrected. I had no intentions of creating a perception of me as unfaithful to my purpose. It was protecting my own reputation, not an accusation against you."
Prose flashes a crooked little smile, and sticks out a hoof. "Hey now, no worries. No hard feelings?"
"After such dangers
Does the hero fear the grave
Or merely the thought?" Snowstorm asks.
"Then again, something tells me all of us...Hold duties where we face death far too much." She furrows her brow. "Something also tells me swapping to Iambic Pentameter is a little too basic to fully impress you."
Blueshield shook her head. "I was never a specialist with poetic composition myself. I shall refrain from contributing in that area."
"Poetry is poetry," Prose smirks. "And Iambic Pentameter isn't basic, per se. The fact that a pony can be bothered to create or recite any sort of poetry - from lymeric to sonnet - is enough to impress me."
"Also, your haiku had proper meter, but a proper haiku focuses on a specific item, typically highlighted or addressed in the first line, like a butterfly, or a thundercloud, so on and so forth," he tells Snow with a cheeky little smile. "Nice try though."
"Also, to offer a retort..."
"Grim mortality,
Always waiting patiently,
Why fear what must be?" he muses aloofly, throwing out another haiku.
"Or, if you'd prefer something more traditional..." he smirks.
"Death shall come for all in due course.
From bravest hound, to meekest horse.
Those who fear it and those who flee,
Can't escape what must always be.
So why fear what you cannot fight?
Enjoy your time, til coming Night."
His poem concluded, Prose gives another crooked little smirk. "Never been to fond of iambic pentameter, personally. More of a tetrameter kinda stallion..."
HalfTangible
2014-02-12, 08:47 PM
Esmeralda blinked. Or rather, she thought she was blinking. One moment she was busy trying to flip through the bewildering array of words that had lined up on the screen. The next, it felt like something reached out and plucked her soul out of her body. Almost. Dimly, she could still feel herself standing. Or was she? Lone Star was saying something, but all she could hear was a blur.
She blinked again. And her vision suddenly switched to a panorama of the lake. Almost like... like she was floating in mid air. Like she was now seeing through the eyes... Esmeralda's lips curled up in a smile.
"Hey, Star. Watch this," she could hear herself say faintly.
The robot suddenly surged downwards and landed on the sandy shores of the lake with a loud whump.
...Ow... Lone Star pulled himself off the ground and rubbed his head. Guess we know what that does. Through the security cameras, Es could see Lone Star looking at the booth. Ya feelin' okay in there?
"Aww... aren't they such a sweet couple~" Shell Shock chuckled. Likely this would earn him Wrench's evil eye. :smalltongue:
The evilest. Shoulda known better than to show Pyro's kid mah- The remote beeped thrice. Ah, there we go, they're at the lake. He pressed a button.
Long as they don't have the neural command on, that oughta shut it down. And if by some miracle they do, it'll shut down all weapons.
Wrench stood up. Let's go. Don't gotta fight 'em, but I really need 'em outta my robot. He cocked an eyebrow. And I got questions for the stallion about ol' Pyro.
---
In addition to the aforementioned camera stuff, Es would suddenly see a message that all functions except motion were now shutting down. No weapons, but it could walk, fly and teleport.
...Also, with the background hum of the weapon systems gone, she'd notice she could control the tracking system, including its coordinates. She could send Wrench and Shell Shock anywhere.
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