File: 1387656848520.jpg (37.23 KB, 720x480, midnight guard.jpg, IO Exif Google TinEye)
Unrest in the high houses of Canterlot is afoot.
Since times immemorial many of these noble houses have been entrusted with safeguarding mysterious artifacts of shrouded origin. Few remember their purpose any longer, and over time many have been stolen, lost, sold or just thrown away as meaningless trinkets. But recent events have called for an inventory among the houses, revealing how many have neglected their duties regarding these strange treasures. Now the rulers of Equestria have demanded that the houses regain their artifacts at once, or they will risk losing their noble status for disregarding the symbols of their authority.
However, the truth is far more dire. These seemingly meaningless items all share a common origin: they are remnants of the immense power of the demon king Tirek. Known as the ruler of Midnight, Tirek once wielded the Power of Darkness - an immensely powerful magic capable of twisting any living being into a horrible monster under his command. And though Tirek was slain long ago, many believe that he could not truly be destroyed, merely banished from the world. Furthermore, were the remnants of his power ever brought back together, it is possible Tirek himself could return to dominate the world once more. This is a possibility the alicorn sisters cannot risk happening.
In an effort to keep panic from spreading, knowledge of Tirek is limited, and the houses have been instructed to only tell the full truth to those who they know can stomach it. As such, most who are recruited to help recover the fragments of power are given false information. Excuses of various kinds masking the true importance of their duty.
You are among these recruits, gathered in a meeting organized by House Starling.
The house representative will arrive to speak momentarily. Make yourselves ready.
Since times immemorial many of these noble houses have been entrusted with safeguarding mysterious artifacts of shrouded origin. Few remember their purpose any longer, and over time many have been stolen, lost, sold or just thrown away as meaningless trinkets. But recent events have called for an inventory among the houses, revealing how many have neglected their duties regarding these strange treasures. Now the rulers of Equestria have demanded that the houses regain their artifacts at once, or they will risk losing their noble status for disregarding the symbols of their authority.
However, the truth is far more dire. These seemingly meaningless items all share a common origin: they are remnants of the immense power of the demon king Tirek. Known as the ruler of Midnight, Tirek once wielded the Power of Darkness - an immensely powerful magic capable of twisting any living being into a horrible monster under his command. And though Tirek was slain long ago, many believe that he could not truly be destroyed, merely banished from the world. Furthermore, were the remnants of his power ever brought back together, it is possible Tirek himself could return to dominate the world once more. This is a possibility the alicorn sisters cannot risk happening.
In an effort to keep panic from spreading, knowledge of Tirek is limited, and the houses have been instructed to only tell the full truth to those who they know can stomach it. As such, most who are recruited to help recover the fragments of power are given false information. Excuses of various kinds masking the true importance of their duty.
You are among these recruits, gathered in a meeting organized by House Starling.
The house representative will arrive to speak momentarily. Make yourselves ready.
>>512464
It looks old, but not too familiar.
"Not too long ago. And when I reported it, well, a lot of things started happening.
Look around you."
He takes the fine crystal glass and takes a sip
"What do you see? Fine hardwood, exquisite gold detailing, the most valuable of artisan crafts Equestria can offer.
Tell me… do you take it for granted, that we have these things?"
>>512465
"Hard to say. From what I've heard this is mostly about chasing thieves, so I felt obliged to come.
My brother told me some of the other houses have put out bounties on some weird items too lately. He went looking through some places he knows to see if he could score a quick sack of bits from a sale. Here's hoping. Poor guy needs a break."
It looks old, but not too familiar.
"Not too long ago. And when I reported it, well, a lot of things started happening.
Look around you."
He takes the fine crystal glass and takes a sip
"What do you see? Fine hardwood, exquisite gold detailing, the most valuable of artisan crafts Equestria can offer.
Tell me… do you take it for granted, that we have these things?"
>>512465
"Hard to say. From what I've heard this is mostly about chasing thieves, so I felt obliged to come.
My brother told me some of the other houses have put out bounties on some weird items too lately. He went looking through some places he knows to see if he could score a quick sack of bits from a sale. Here's hoping. Poor guy needs a break."
>>512470
"I'm just happy to make Canterlot a safer place."
>>512471
"Perhaps. Perhaps it was someone on the inside.
But if that was the case, I doubt they knew what they were doing. Because aside from me, I don't think anyone inside these walls knows what the thing in that box really was."
>>512472
You can always talk with those present, see if you can scout out good leads on adventure
"I'm just happy to make Canterlot a safer place."
>>512471
"Perhaps. Perhaps it was someone on the inside.
But if that was the case, I doubt they knew what they were doing. Because aside from me, I don't think anyone inside these walls knows what the thing in that box really was."
>>512472
You can always talk with those present, see if you can scout out good leads on adventure
>>512477
"As it should be. House Starling was entrusted with watching over one of its fragments, as were many of the noble houses of Canterlot.
Legend has it that if the shards are ever brought back together, the great demon Tirek would return to rule the world."
>>512478
"They often seem to think themselves above responsibility and humility. This is a welcome reminder that they are still but ponies."
>>512480
It seems you aren't the only crystal around. There's another one there >>512478 and a unicorn mare over there >>512479 as well as many others killing time in the courtyard, waiting for the house representative.
"As it should be. House Starling was entrusted with watching over one of its fragments, as were many of the noble houses of Canterlot.
Legend has it that if the shards are ever brought back together, the great demon Tirek would return to rule the world."
>>512478
"They often seem to think themselves above responsibility and humility. This is a welcome reminder that they are still but ponies."
>>512480
It seems you aren't the only crystal around. There's another one there >>512478 and a unicorn mare over there >>512479 as well as many others killing time in the courtyard, waiting for the house representative.
>>512481
Another crystal? Wonderful, I'll have to aquaint myself with her. Later, though; she seems otherwise occupied at the moment.
I check out the unicorn mare. What type of gear is she using? How does she carry herself? Does she appear to be of noble lineage? Just as importantly, how attractive is she?
Another crystal? Wonderful, I'll have to aquaint myself with her. Later, though; she seems otherwise occupied at the moment.
I check out the unicorn mare. What type of gear is she using? How does she carry herself? Does she appear to be of noble lineage? Just as importantly, how attractive is she?
>>512487
"I know an old somepony in the historical district. He is usually in the know about this and that, so start there. Whoever wants these shards would want all of them, and an operation that big is hard to keep low profile."
>>512488
"Maybe, maybe. Sometimes I wonder what's wrong with me, taking these big jobs… My best friend has spent the last weeks guarding a construction site way out of town on some mellow little hill. Must be cozy…"
"I know an old somepony in the historical district. He is usually in the know about this and that, so start there. Whoever wants these shards would want all of them, and an operation that big is hard to keep low profile."
>>512488
"Maybe, maybe. Sometimes I wonder what's wrong with me, taking these big jobs… My best friend has spent the last weeks guarding a construction site way out of town on some mellow little hill. Must be cozy…"
>>512492
"Could be, could be. Maybe I just have a big heart."
>>512493
"They are tight lipped about their own losses, but I can tell which ones have certainly had theirs stolen. Those are the ones who are now mad at me for admitting I lost mine, prompting Celestia to demand the others be inventoried.
My representative should be down at the courtyard soon picking out search parties. Go with one and take them to the historical district. Look for a pony who goes by Word Salad. He can give you more info."
"Could be, could be. Maybe I just have a big heart."
>>512493
"They are tight lipped about their own losses, but I can tell which ones have certainly had theirs stolen. Those are the ones who are now mad at me for admitting I lost mine, prompting Celestia to demand the others be inventoried.
My representative should be down at the courtyard soon picking out search parties. Go with one and take them to the historical district. Look for a pony who goes by Word Salad. He can give you more info."
>>512497
"Actually, I was hoping to recruit you. You see, the family that is hiring us all is supposed to be very powerful here in Equestria. If somepony was willing to steal from them, it stands to reason that the thieves had access to significant resources. Potentially resources that would make working alone a dangerous prospect."
"Actually, I was hoping to recruit you. You see, the family that is hiring us all is supposed to be very powerful here in Equestria. If somepony was willing to steal from them, it stands to reason that the thieves had access to significant resources. Potentially resources that would make working alone a dangerous prospect."
>>512520
>>512521
>>512522
As you see a few more recruits arrive on the scene, the house representative enters the courtyard as well.
"Good day everypony. I am glad to see so many turned up. For we have great opportunities available for each of you.
The master of the house, Lord Starling, is seeking a very special item close to his heart. An old heirloom of the Starling line that has most unfortunately gone missing. A great reward will be offered to any who can return it safely. And if it proves dangerous and difficult, we will double your reward.
The item itself is hard to mistake. It is a unique gem, known as the Jewel of Midnight - a large, deep black stone set in a silver frame. It holds great value to our lord for sentimental reasons, but has little monetary value beyond that. Perhaps you can still even feel some of its old power as you get near it. We surely will, so bringing forgeries will get you nowhere."
>>512521
>>512522
As you see a few more recruits arrive on the scene, the house representative enters the courtyard as well.
"Good day everypony. I am glad to see so many turned up. For we have great opportunities available for each of you.
The master of the house, Lord Starling, is seeking a very special item close to his heart. An old heirloom of the Starling line that has most unfortunately gone missing. A great reward will be offered to any who can return it safely. And if it proves dangerous and difficult, we will double your reward.
The item itself is hard to mistake. It is a unique gem, known as the Jewel of Midnight - a large, deep black stone set in a silver frame. It holds great value to our lord for sentimental reasons, but has little monetary value beyond that. Perhaps you can still even feel some of its old power as you get near it. We surely will, so bringing forgeries will get you nowhere."
>>512622
Those looking to work for the house and hunt treasure should be at the mansion courtyard listening to their briefing. You aren't late are you?
>>512623
>>512624
It seems the first briefing was already given, but if you raise your hoof you can probably get a recap.
>>512625
Oh look, a zebra >>512623 and a diamond dog >>512622
Those looking to work for the house and hunt treasure should be at the mansion courtyard listening to their briefing. You aren't late are you?
>>512623
>>512624
It seems the first briefing was already given, but if you raise your hoof you can probably get a recap.
>>512625
Oh look, a zebra >>512623 and a diamond dog >>512622
>>512626
"Please correct me if I'm wrong, but what I gathered is that one Tirek-related artifact under your care with the potential to summon him has gone missing, and you suspect someone is trying to gather many similar artifacts for that very purpose. Is that it?"
>>512630
"Yes, yes fine day to you. What, were you gathered for this cursed artifact business too?"
"Please correct me if I'm wrong, but what I gathered is that one Tirek-related artifact under your care with the potential to summon him has gone missing, and you suspect someone is trying to gather many similar artifacts for that very purpose. Is that it?"
>>512630
"Yes, yes fine day to you. What, were you gathered for this cursed artifact business too?"
>>512634
"We're dealing with demonic curses here, safety is of paramount importance. So yes, of course I'm stressed when a misstep could cause any of us to go insane or lose limbs if we're lucky, thank you very much."
>>512636
"And you too little! I work with curses like this on a day-to-day basis. Of course, better for you to believe it a fairy tale. Security reasons."
"We're dealing with demonic curses here, safety is of paramount importance. So yes, of course I'm stressed when a misstep could cause any of us to go insane or lose limbs if we're lucky, thank you very much."
>>512636
"And you too little! I work with curses like this on a day-to-day basis. Of course, better for you to believe it a fairy tale. Security reasons."
>>512631
Well you came here to House Starling, so they will be paying you to get the job done.
Then, your loyalties may lie else where. That does raise the question of why you are here?
>>512632
The representative looks uneasy
"We have no information regarding such fables. This is merely a personal request of Lord Starling to return his lost heirloom."
Well you came here to House Starling, so they will be paying you to get the job done.
Then, your loyalties may lie else where. That does raise the question of why you are here?
>>512632
The representative looks uneasy
"We have no information regarding such fables. This is merely a personal request of Lord Starling to return his lost heirloom."
>>512637
…Demonic curses? Um… I get the feeling I'm missing something.
>>512636
Or maybe SHE'S just crazy.
>>512638
Okay, something's up. I don't know what this "Tirek" is, but clearly the briefing didn't inform us on everything.
"Ugh, I knew it was bound to devolve into politics sooner or later, but so soon?" I facehoof and start rubbing my temples.
…Demonic curses? Um… I get the feeling I'm missing something.
>>512636
Or maybe SHE'S just crazy.
>>512638
Okay, something's up. I don't know what this "Tirek" is, but clearly the briefing didn't inform us on everything.
"Ugh, I knew it was bound to devolve into politics sooner or later, but so soon?" I facehoof and start rubbing my temples.
>>512641
"For those who came in late, Lord Starling is paying a handsome sum for the return of his family's lost heirloom known as the Jewel of Midnight. While it's not valuable on the market, it does have great sentimental value to my lord, and as such we ask for heroes like you to seek it out and return it."
>>512645
>>512643
The representative gives you a lingering look
"Is there a problem?"
"For those who came in late, Lord Starling is paying a handsome sum for the return of his family's lost heirloom known as the Jewel of Midnight. While it's not valuable on the market, it does have great sentimental value to my lord, and as such we ask for heroes like you to seek it out and return it."
>>512645
>>512643
The representative gives you a lingering look
"Is there a problem?"
Word on the street is, there is a pony who knows a lot about a lot of less known things in the Historical District. Goes by Word Salad.
Or if you want to look for more official info, there is always the Great Library.
Also, a guard by the name of Cloud Cover can join you if you desire the extra company.
Or if you want to look for more official info, there is always the Great Library.
Also, a guard by the name of Cloud Cover can join you if you desire the extra company.
>>512657
Ugh, fine. I've been stonewalled before.
>>512656
"I came to Equestria seeking a reprieve from the games and manipulations of the noble houses. Excuse me for getting miffed that I'm already getting dragged back in.
Forgive me, I get… irritated when politics are involved. I am Amber Dawn, of House- I mean, Amber Dawn. Just, Amber."
Ugh, fine. I've been stonewalled before.
>>512656
"I came to Equestria seeking a reprieve from the games and manipulations of the noble houses. Excuse me for getting miffed that I'm already getting dragged back in.
Forgive me, I get… irritated when politics are involved. I am Amber Dawn, of House- I mean, Amber Dawn. Just, Amber."
>>512671
"Well met, Cloud Cover of the Guard. I look forward to working with you."
>>512678
"Well then, let's not just sit around yapping. To find Salad of Words! Er, Wordy Salad! Ah… Oh, you understand what I'm saying!"
I begin to head for… Well, outside the gates for now, then to search for Whatsisface.
"Well met, Cloud Cover of the Guard. I look forward to working with you."
>>512678
"Well then, let's not just sit around yapping. To find Salad of Words! Er, Wordy Salad! Ah… Oh, you understand what I'm saying!"
I begin to head for… Well, outside the gates for now, then to search for Whatsisface.
And so you headed off, with two leads on your mids. Word Salad the information broker, and the Great Library.
Soon you arrive in the Historical District, the old heart of Canterlot that has remained nearly unchanged since ancient times when the city was far smaller and less prosperous. It's hard to think the city of nobles was once such a utilitarian and rugged place of dark stone and rough wood. But many still called this place home, even if the rich consider it little more than a dump.
Your best lead so far is the pauper graves, an old set of crypts where those who cannot afford plots in the fancier graveyards are buried for free.
Soon you arrive in the Historical District, the old heart of Canterlot that has remained nearly unchanged since ancient times when the city was far smaller and less prosperous. It's hard to think the city of nobles was once such a utilitarian and rugged place of dark stone and rough wood. But many still called this place home, even if the rich consider it little more than a dump.
Your best lead so far is the pauper graves, an old set of crypts where those who cannot afford plots in the fancier graveyards are buried for free.
>>512707
"I am Amber Dawn. Pleased to make your aquaintance." Lean in and whisper, "I think your cheeks were tinted, but I wasn't the one your eyes were on."
>>512709
>>512710
>>512707
>>512706
"So Slow Shell, Aurelius, and Eira will go talk to Salad, while Coral, Cassie and I head to the library! Sound good?"
"I am Amber Dawn. Pleased to make your aquaintance." Lean in and whisper, "I think your cheeks were tinted, but I wasn't the one your eyes were on."
>>512709
>>512710
>>512707
>>512706
"So Slow Shell, Aurelius, and Eira will go talk to Salad, while Coral, Cassie and I head to the library! Sound good?"
>>512739
>>512746
>>512752
>>512751
Very well
And so you split up.
Cloudcover went to help with the graveyard, thinking the extra muscle might be useful.
>Library
Ah, the great library of Canterlot. An impressive sight indeed, dwarfing even the notable collections of the royal castle of Everfree.
However, things look very tense here. Many of the library guards are searching the area, and everyone looks uneasy. Especially the librarians and archivists who are overseeing the process.
>Graveyard
You remain in the historical district and go poking around. The pauper graves are a quiet place, since nopony cares about the penniless dead. But it seems the dead are not silent, because you can hear faint sounds from inside the large crypts…
>>512746
>>512752
>>512751
Very well
And so you split up.
Cloudcover went to help with the graveyard, thinking the extra muscle might be useful.
>Library
Ah, the great library of Canterlot. An impressive sight indeed, dwarfing even the notable collections of the royal castle of Everfree.
However, things look very tense here. Many of the library guards are searching the area, and everyone looks uneasy. Especially the librarians and archivists who are overseeing the process.
>Graveyard
You remain in the historical district and go poking around. The pauper graves are a quiet place, since nopony cares about the penniless dead. But it seems the dead are not silent, because you can hear faint sounds from inside the large crypts…
>>512773
All this over one book? At least we should still be able to find something about this artifact. Go to one of the clerks. "Excuse me, we're looking for information on an artifact held by House Starling. Might you direct us to where we can find relevant books?"
>>512778
"Then what title would you prefer, milady?"
All this over one book? At least we should still be able to find something about this artifact. Go to one of the clerks. "Excuse me, we're looking for information on an artifact held by House Starling. Might you direct us to where we can find relevant books?"
>>512778
"Then what title would you prefer, milady?"
>>512775
>>512779
Sounds like someone is asleep in there.
Looking inside, you can see most of the walls are lined with dozens upon dozens of little cubbyholes, most of them full of bones
>>512780
"One of our finest ones. Irreplaceable. A tome from ancient times, detailing spells forgotten by modern magic"
>>512783
"Oh, um, yes, certainly. What is the item in question?"
>>512779
Sounds like someone is asleep in there.
Looking inside, you can see most of the walls are lined with dozens upon dozens of little cubbyholes, most of them full of bones
>>512780
"One of our finest ones. Irreplaceable. A tome from ancient times, detailing spells forgotten by modern magic"
>>512783
"Oh, um, yes, certainly. What is the item in question?"
>>512806
You are super spooked. You even scream like a little foal
>>512805
You smack the skeleton, and realize it's just a normal skeleton. Not even an undead one.
It crumbles on the floor.
Someone is laughing.
>>512809
>>512807
>>512813
"Well. The book that was stolen recently is related to the jewel you seek. That much I can easily say. Further details however, are a bit less… available."
You are super spooked. You even scream like a little foal
>>512805
You smack the skeleton, and realize it's just a normal skeleton. Not even an undead one.
It crumbles on the floor.
Someone is laughing.
>>512809
>>512807
>>512813
"Well. The book that was stolen recently is related to the jewel you seek. That much I can easily say. Further details however, are a bit less… available."
>>512814
"Clearly this jewel is of great importance, and YOU, good sir, hold the key to our success in safely retrieving it from those who would use it for evil! You are a scribe, dedicating your life to the glorious pursuit of knowledge! Now what knowledge do you have on the Jewel of Midnight?"
Inspire to make him loosen his lips. [1d10]
Roll #1 6 = 6
"Clearly this jewel is of great importance, and YOU, good sir, hold the key to our success in safely retrieving it from those who would use it for evil! You are a scribe, dedicating your life to the glorious pursuit of knowledge! Now what knowledge do you have on the Jewel of Midnight?"
Inspire to make him loosen his lips. [1d10]
Roll #1 6 = 6
>>512815
>>512820
A somewhat disheveled, but deeply amused pony pokes his head out of the cubbyhole
"Orrite meighty nonneedtabeall shoutyboutit."
>>512816
>>512817
"It was found missing this morning. The chief librarian was so shocked he had to go home to rest after hearing the news.
Not many ponies even know that book exists, let alone what it contains. And those who do would have no reason to steal it, since it has no market value."
>>512826
"How did you know it was a tool for evil? Who told you that? I thought I knew everyone we informed about this."
>>512820
A somewhat disheveled, but deeply amused pony pokes his head out of the cubbyhole
"Orrite meighty nonneedtabeall shoutyboutit."
>>512816
>>512817
"It was found missing this morning. The chief librarian was so shocked he had to go home to rest after hearing the news.
Not many ponies even know that book exists, let alone what it contains. And those who do would have no reason to steal it, since it has no market value."
>>512826
"How did you know it was a tool for evil? Who told you that? I thought I knew everyone we informed about this."
>>512830
Uh, I was being theatrical. If it really is a tool for evil, then we definitely need more info.
I bluff like hell.
"Please, this involves the noble houses. Since when have they ever let anypony be completely in the know? Besides, I'm a representative of the House Angelite of the Crystal Empire; you haven't met me because I was briefed in the empire. Now can you help us?"
[1d10]
Roll #1 3 = 3
Uh, I was being theatrical. If it really is a tool for evil, then we definitely need more info.
I bluff like hell.
"Please, this involves the noble houses. Since when have they ever let anypony be completely in the know? Besides, I'm a representative of the House Angelite of the Crystal Empire; you haven't met me because I was briefed in the empire. Now can you help us?"
[1d10]
Roll #1 3 = 3
>>512840
"Suffice to say that by themselves, the book and jewel are primarily harmless. But together, they can be dangerous. So it would be lovely if you could recover them before someone who knows this has a chance to get their hooves on both, let alone the rest of them."
>>512842
"Letting dogs lift their legs at our most precious treasures seems ill advised."
>>512841
"Wanmomment willyaright?"
He spits out a huge wad of tobacco
"Ahem. Sorry. Shouldn't speak with my mouth full.
Word in the shadows is there are buyers for those old things the nobles have been guarding. Which is really odd by itself, but get this - someponies have been hearing talks of these strangely-clad groups roaming the outer countryside, poking around a lot of places that all share a single connection - they were all somehow related to this ancient myth about a 'Lord of Midnight'."
"Suffice to say that by themselves, the book and jewel are primarily harmless. But together, they can be dangerous. So it would be lovely if you could recover them before someone who knows this has a chance to get their hooves on both, let alone the rest of them."
>>512842
"Letting dogs lift their legs at our most precious treasures seems ill advised."
>>512841
"Wanmomment willyaright?"
He spits out a huge wad of tobacco
"Ahem. Sorry. Shouldn't speak with my mouth full.
Word in the shadows is there are buyers for those old things the nobles have been guarding. Which is really odd by itself, but get this - someponies have been hearing talks of these strangely-clad groups roaming the outer countryside, poking around a lot of places that all share a single connection - they were all somehow related to this ancient myth about a 'Lord of Midnight'."
>>512845
"Very well. Would you mind directing me to the books on sword-fighting techiques?"
When the clerk isn't looking, lean in and whisper to Cassie. "I'm going to try and eavesdrop on some of their conversations, see if I can learn anything. You keep pressing them for information directly."
"Very well. Would you mind directing me to the books on sword-fighting techiques?"
When the clerk isn't looking, lean in and whisper to Cassie. "I'm going to try and eavesdrop on some of their conversations, see if I can learn anything. You keep pressing them for information directly."
>>512848
>>512851
"The title is information broker not information giveaway.
What's in this for me?"
>>512854
"Combat techniques are in the martial wing, third floor, aisle eight"
>>512857
"Mhm. Still not letting her mark any of our books as her territory."
>>512849
"In the worst case scenario, the world will need that book returned. We have checked the room. There is no way we could have missed something.
…is there?"
>>512851
"The title is information broker not information giveaway.
What's in this for me?"
>>512854
"Combat techniques are in the martial wing, third floor, aisle eight"
>>512857
"Mhm. Still not letting her mark any of our books as her territory."
>>512849
"In the worst case scenario, the world will need that book returned. We have checked the room. There is no way we could have missed something.
…is there?"
>>512861
"You're gonna owe me big time for this, you know that right?"
>>512865
He flashes a grin, showing his teeth are immaculate. He is clearly making good bank with this job…
"Place is called the Pig Bag. It's an underground auction where they don't show what they sell. They only give you a number, and the clients need to know what number correlates to what item beforehand.
Often a lot of the buyers are just hired help too, so don't shake the place down. Your best bet might be to trail them to where ever the seller has stashed the goods."
>>512863
"They all look the same to me. Last I read they're all equipped the same too."
>>512864
All the better. You notice a discarded key that had been tossed under a shelf.
From the looks of it, it's a rough copy of another key. Probably an important clue.
>>512868
"Classy. Well, look around if you must. But unless you can show me something we missed, I'm not permitting you anywhere near the high value things."
"You're gonna owe me big time for this, you know that right?"
>>512865
He flashes a grin, showing his teeth are immaculate. He is clearly making good bank with this job…
"Place is called the Pig Bag. It's an underground auction where they don't show what they sell. They only give you a number, and the clients need to know what number correlates to what item beforehand.
Often a lot of the buyers are just hired help too, so don't shake the place down. Your best bet might be to trail them to where ever the seller has stashed the goods."
>>512863
"They all look the same to me. Last I read they're all equipped the same too."
>>512864
All the better. You notice a discarded key that had been tossed under a shelf.
From the looks of it, it's a rough copy of another key. Probably an important clue.
>>512868
"Classy. Well, look around if you must. But unless you can show me something we missed, I'm not permitting you anywhere near the high value things."
>>512873
>>512877
"They do have a book that records that. But they burn it after every auction, or so I hear.
You could try to swipe the book, or talk the burner into neglecting his duties."
>>512879
"Biology of Sapient Nonequines. It's called a psudopenis."
>>512878
Nothing worth paying attention to, really.
But this key would be useful to present to the others
>>512874
"You are free to search the surrounding area with the guards."
>>512877
"They do have a book that records that. But they burn it after every auction, or so I hear.
You could try to swipe the book, or talk the burner into neglecting his duties."
>>512879
"Biology of Sapient Nonequines. It's called a psudopenis."
>>512878
Nothing worth paying attention to, really.
But this key would be useful to present to the others
>>512874
"You are free to search the surrounding area with the guards."
>>512885
Fine, I guess I can come back later to find something to improve my skills. These Equestrians must have some fencing schools I'm unfamiliar with!
Regardless, I return to Cassie, Eira, and the clerk.
"Excuse me, but would you mind directing me where the room where the book was held? I know we aren't allowed in, but I'd like to see if we can figure out how the thieves got in."
Fine, I guess I can come back later to find something to improve my skills. These Equestrians must have some fencing schools I'm unfamiliar with!
Regardless, I return to Cassie, Eira, and the clerk.
"Excuse me, but would you mind directing me where the room where the book was held? I know we aren't allowed in, but I'd like to see if we can figure out how the thieves got in."
>>512889
"I am a pony of science, not hearsay."
>>512890
"It's on the central platform on the fourth floor. You may have seen the walkway that leads there if you looked up in the martial section."
>>512892
The room is suspended in the middle of the fourth floor. The only access route is a walkway that connects it to the rest of the floor, with quite a fall down to the third from up there. The area is also too narrow to safely fly in for most pegasi.
>>512891
"If you ignore all the hired goons and other unsavory types keeping the place safe, sure."
"I am a pony of science, not hearsay."
>>512890
"It's on the central platform on the fourth floor. You may have seen the walkway that leads there if you looked up in the martial section."
>>512892
The room is suspended in the middle of the fourth floor. The only access route is a walkway that connects it to the rest of the floor, with quite a fall down to the third from up there. The area is also too narrow to safely fly in for most pegasi.
>>512891
"If you ignore all the hired goons and other unsavory types keeping the place safe, sure."
>>513053
"There is a certain group we might have come across that's interested in gathering as many artifacts as possible, as if pieces of a puzzle.
We have a rough idea of who these ponies are, but we need a way to narrow it down.
It's my belief that the ones we are looking for have a way to actually translate and use the book."
"There is a certain group we might have come across that's interested in gathering as many artifacts as possible, as if pieces of a puzzle.
We have a rough idea of who these ponies are, but we need a way to narrow it down.
It's my belief that the ones we are looking for have a way to actually translate and use the book."
>>513054
"Translate Dark Tongue? sounds preposterous. Aside from me and a few of my obscura enthusiast friends, I doubt there is a pony alive who even knows the alphabet, let alone any actual words"
>>513055
"Crazy. I thought it was bad enough the Torch of Black Fire went missing, but now this too. Ugh. I though Canterlot was a good city."
"Translate Dark Tongue? sounds preposterous. Aside from me and a few of my obscura enthusiast friends, I doubt there is a pony alive who even knows the alphabet, let alone any actual words"
>>513055
"Crazy. I thought it was bad enough the Torch of Black Fire went missing, but now this too. Ugh. I though Canterlot was a good city."
>>513061
"Maybe half a dozen texts of Dark Tongue are known to exist. That book was the most complete one. We have slowly pieced together what we assume is the complete alphabet, but that's about it. We don't even know how to pronounce any of it. And if the legends about Dark Tongue are true, we couldn't even if we tried since only one twisted by dark magic could make such sounds with their mouth."
"Maybe half a dozen texts of Dark Tongue are known to exist. That book was the most complete one. We have slowly pieced together what we assume is the complete alphabet, but that's about it. We don't even know how to pronounce any of it. And if the legends about Dark Tongue are true, we couldn't even if we tried since only one twisted by dark magic could make such sounds with their mouth."
>>513064
>>513068
"You know, the symbol of House Sunset. It was found to be missing recently.
I hear it burned with a black flame that couldn't be extinguished, yet also didn't actually burn anything. Probably some magical novelty commissioned by the old Lord Sunset centuries ago."
>>513066
"Preservation of knowledge? It would be a shame for a whole language to become entirely lost."
>>513067
"Lord Noblecrest is one of them, and most of the others are our friends from long ago. Collectors, scholars, that sort of deal. I think Fademane still teaches at the Canterlot Academy if she didn't retire yet."
>>513068
"You know, the symbol of House Sunset. It was found to be missing recently.
I hear it burned with a black flame that couldn't be extinguished, yet also didn't actually burn anything. Probably some magical novelty commissioned by the old Lord Sunset centuries ago."
>>513066
"Preservation of knowledge? It would be a shame for a whole language to become entirely lost."
>>513067
"Lord Noblecrest is one of them, and most of the others are our friends from long ago. Collectors, scholars, that sort of deal. I think Fademane still teaches at the Canterlot Academy if she didn't retire yet."
>>513074
"Not really. I just handle whatever books the master brings home."
>>513075
"Now I don't like being a tattletale…"
He looks around
"…but I heard a lot of the noble houses got in trouble for having lost this and that. Like Lord Noblecrest, who had to admit he threw away some symbol of power Celestia gave his house ages ago. Though apparently it was his mother who threw it out, at least according to him.
Also Darryl, the guard out there? I think he's into stallion.
And the cook? Probably eats more food than he makes."
"Not really. I just handle whatever books the master brings home."
>>513075
"Now I don't like being a tattletale…"
He looks around
"…but I heard a lot of the noble houses got in trouble for having lost this and that. Like Lord Noblecrest, who had to admit he threw away some symbol of power Celestia gave his house ages ago. Though apparently it was his mother who threw it out, at least according to him.
Also Darryl, the guard out there? I think he's into stallion.
And the cook? Probably eats more food than he makes."
Cloudcover taps his chin
"So, this is what we know so far: Several items from the Noble Houses have gone missing, including the Jewel of Midnight and the Torch of Black Fire, as well as a book of spells written in the forgotten language known as Dark Tongue.
These may be auctioned at the underground auction house known as the Pig Bag.
And… I think that's most of it.
What's our next move?"
"So, this is what we know so far: Several items from the Noble Houses have gone missing, including the Jewel of Midnight and the Torch of Black Fire, as well as a book of spells written in the forgotten language known as Dark Tongue.
These may be auctioned at the underground auction house known as the Pig Bag.
And… I think that's most of it.
What's our next move?"
>>513671
>>513674
"Hm. Looks like a copy. See the rough edges, and the remaining flash? I think this is a hastily made cast of the original key. It also seems to have been cut down a bit.
I've seen similar things on skilled burglars. They aren't easy to make, but can often circumvent several locks in the same set."
>>513675
"Probably the high level librarians and perhaps some cleaning staff and/or guards."
>>513674
"Hm. Looks like a copy. See the rough edges, and the remaining flash? I think this is a hastily made cast of the original key. It also seems to have been cut down a bit.
I've seen similar things on skilled burglars. They aren't easy to make, but can often circumvent several locks in the same set."
>>513675
"Probably the high level librarians and perhaps some cleaning staff and/or guards."
>>513678
>>513676
"Noone laugh now. The only way I saw to get in was a walkway which was locked by a gate. I sniffed around and it all smelled like old books. The butler of the head librarian smelled the same, but he was at the house. He said he was working with a courier. I think we should check that guy out."
>>513676
"Noone laugh now. The only way I saw to get in was a walkway which was locked by a gate. I sniffed around and it all smelled like old books. The butler of the head librarian smelled the same, but he was at the house. He said he was working with a courier. I think we should check that guy out."
>>513690
"True, but since he's the Head Librarian's butler, they might have been familiar enough with him to accept an excuse of 'picking up some books for Master'…
*sigh* This is why I hate politics. So many questions and no solid answers… It gives me a headache, yet it seems I can never escape it."
>>513693
"Then lead on, friend. I'd like some more evidence; any more speculation and I think my head will explode."
"True, but since he's the Head Librarian's butler, they might have been familiar enough with him to accept an excuse of 'picking up some books for Master'…
*sigh* This is why I hate politics. So many questions and no solid answers… It gives me a headache, yet it seems I can never escape it."
>>513693
"Then lead on, friend. I'd like some more evidence; any more speculation and I think my head will explode."
>>513701
You yank down her pants with your telekinesis
>>513696
>>513697
>>513698
"Very well. Right this way then."
It takes you a little over half an hour to make your way through to the historical district's east side, where Cloudcover points at one of the old pubs.
"That'd be the one. I got his location from a guy we caught trying to smuggle horny goat weed into town. The auctions happen in the basement.
Now, please excuse me a moment."
He heads to a side alley
You yank down her pants with your telekinesis
>>513696
>>513697
>>513698
"Very well. Right this way then."
It takes you a little over half an hour to make your way through to the historical district's east side, where Cloudcover points at one of the old pubs.
"That'd be the one. I got his location from a guy we caught trying to smuggle horny goat weed into town. The auctions happen in the basement.
Now, please excuse me a moment."
He heads to a side alley
>>513711
It's old-fashioned. Probably among the first of its kind in Canterlot. Not big, mind you, but enough to house a few guests and cater to the needs of plenty of others. It's possible there was a wine or potato cellar that was converted to work as the auction room.
>>513713
Well you are rather shiny. Then, they doesn't mean you couldn't pass as a foreign buyer.
>>513714
The book is written in an old, dead language known as Dark Tongue. According to legend, it is the language of ancient demons, impossible for any normal creature to read or speak.
The Jewel of Midnight is a dark gem with no real monetary value, used as a symbol of authority by House Starling centuries ago. If the way it's depicted on their crest is correct, it has a complex, unusual cut.
The Torch of Black Fire is likewise a symbol of House Sunset. A torch of heavy brass and iron topped with a seemingly eternal black flame. The flame in itself doesn't seem to burn anything though, and may just be some kind of optical illusion.
>>513716
A little conspicuous, but given the nature of the auctions, she only serves to reinforce your cover as a fan of exotic rarities.
>>513715
He soon returns without his armor, looking rather more rugged with his mane down and body more clearly visible.
It's old-fashioned. Probably among the first of its kind in Canterlot. Not big, mind you, but enough to house a few guests and cater to the needs of plenty of others. It's possible there was a wine or potato cellar that was converted to work as the auction room.
>>513713
Well you are rather shiny. Then, they doesn't mean you couldn't pass as a foreign buyer.
>>513714
The book is written in an old, dead language known as Dark Tongue. According to legend, it is the language of ancient demons, impossible for any normal creature to read or speak.
The Jewel of Midnight is a dark gem with no real monetary value, used as a symbol of authority by House Starling centuries ago. If the way it's depicted on their crest is correct, it has a complex, unusual cut.
The Torch of Black Fire is likewise a symbol of House Sunset. A torch of heavy brass and iron topped with a seemingly eternal black flame. The flame in itself doesn't seem to burn anything though, and may just be some kind of optical illusion.
>>513716
A little conspicuous, but given the nature of the auctions, she only serves to reinforce your cover as a fan of exotic rarities.
>>513715
He soon returns without his armor, looking rather more rugged with his mane down and body more clearly visible.
>>513721
>>513722
He looks surprised at the attention, opens his mouth to say something, and then closes it again
>>513723
>>513724
>>513725
>>513726
"There may be a back entrance as well. See that side building? It looks newer than the rest of the place, so I'm guessing it was added later to cover the old hatch leading to the basement.
We can try to break into the basement and/or check the bar and inn in case we can catch someone there."
>>513722
He looks surprised at the attention, opens his mouth to say something, and then closes it again
>>513723
>>513724
>>513725
>>513726
"There may be a back entrance as well. See that side building? It looks newer than the rest of the place, so I'm guessing it was added later to cover the old hatch leading to the basement.
We can try to break into the basement and/or check the bar and inn in case we can catch someone there."
>>513729
>>513728
"I'd say we go take ourselves a look. Even if we don't get into anything, we can see who comes and goes and reference anything with those that stayed inside."
>>513731
"If we find what we're looking for, we have no choice but to just grab it, since these are rather sought after artifacts. Even if we can't knowing they're here means we don't waste time wondering."
>>513728
"I'd say we go take ourselves a look. Even if we don't get into anything, we can see who comes and goes and reference anything with those that stayed inside."
>>513731
"If we find what we're looking for, we have no choice but to just grab it, since these are rather sought after artifacts. Even if we can't knowing they're here means we don't waste time wondering."
>>513743
Some crystal trinkets. To the untrained eye they might seem downright mystical.
>>513738
>>513737
>>513739
"Alright, how about this:
A few of us go with ser Dawn here through the front, get some drinks and try to chat up the people inside to find out more.
The rest go in through the back with me. If we get caught, our excuse is that we were told to bring the good into storage here for the auction.
Sound good?"
Some crystal trinkets. To the untrained eye they might seem downright mystical.
>>513738
>>513737
>>513739
"Alright, how about this:
A few of us go with ser Dawn here through the front, get some drinks and try to chat up the people inside to find out more.
The rest go in through the back with me. If we get caught, our excuse is that we were told to bring the good into storage here for the auction.
Sound good?"
>>513757
>>513760
"I'm a surgeon, but the emergency kind, not the ones you call for a lift of the rump. I'm not one you would like to meet, since most of the ones I have to deal with already have 3 hooves in the afterlife, but I'm not to give up on them. Primrose here is my assistant, since I need someone with a grip that doesn't yield and doesn't get tired from long operations."
>>513760
"I'm a surgeon, but the emergency kind, not the ones you call for a lift of the rump. I'm not one you would like to meet, since most of the ones I have to deal with already have 3 hooves in the afterlife, but I'm not to give up on them. Primrose here is my assistant, since I need someone with a grip that doesn't yield and doesn't get tired from long operations."
>>513762
>>513763
"My rather quiet Assistant here." I'll point to my mechanical minion. "Some research I stumbled upon mentioned how useful they could be and I haven't been able to part with her since. To be honest, I probably rely on her too much, but if you have a small wound or two, she'll be faster at patching you up than I."
>>513763
"My rather quiet Assistant here." I'll point to my mechanical minion. "Some research I stumbled upon mentioned how useful they could be and I haven't been able to part with her since. To be honest, I probably rely on her too much, but if you have a small wound or two, she'll be faster at patching you up than I."
>>513767
"Seems so. Eyes wide open, I have no idea what's ahead. This is not something I thought I'd do with two ponies on a day off. I was expecting two dozen guards and three dozed corpses by the time we're done…"
From here, the back door to the inn is obscured by some bushes and a fence. You can spot one fidgeting guard. A tough looking mare with a black eye and a club. She's leaning against the wall, drinking from a flask and muttering obscenities.
>>513772
>>513768
>>513769
>>513770
The bar is nicer on the inside. The old style of construction favored large open rooms, and this is no exception. There is a rather open kitchen off to one end cornered off with tables, and a well-stocked bar dominating the center of the room. The air is thick with tobacco smoke, alcohol fumes and the occasional puff of some difficult to pronounce narcotics. There are also stairs leading up to the second floor.
The barkeep keeps his eye on you, possibly trying to guess what you want to drink.
"Seems so. Eyes wide open, I have no idea what's ahead. This is not something I thought I'd do with two ponies on a day off. I was expecting two dozen guards and three dozed corpses by the time we're done…"
From here, the back door to the inn is obscured by some bushes and a fence. You can spot one fidgeting guard. A tough looking mare with a black eye and a club. She's leaning against the wall, drinking from a flask and muttering obscenities.
>>513772
>>513768
>>513769
>>513770
The bar is nicer on the inside. The old style of construction favored large open rooms, and this is no exception. There is a rather open kitchen off to one end cornered off with tables, and a well-stocked bar dominating the center of the room. The air is thick with tobacco smoke, alcohol fumes and the occasional puff of some difficult to pronounce narcotics. There are also stairs leading up to the second floor.
The barkeep keeps his eye on you, possibly trying to guess what you want to drink.
>>513776
"Well between the stance, black eye and grim demeanor I'd wager she's a brawler. A direct confrontation could get messy…"
>>513777
A shrouded figure keeping his head low and drink close
A pair of dirty looking lads playing cards
A fairly large diamond dog
An uneasy young unicorn who keeps glancing at the dog
A pegasus who sits very still and very straight
A beautiful unicorn mare who might pass for nobility had she dressed appropriately
A soldier of some kind who stays near the mare
A huge earth pony who keeps downing beer at an alarming rate and telling jokes to thin air
>>513778
"No, it seems to be a busy day indeed in my old mudhole. What'll you be having?"
>>513779
"Coming right up, horns."
He pours you something that fizzes mildly
>>513780
"Two dogs in one day? This really is a busy day."
He slides you a mug
"Well between the stance, black eye and grim demeanor I'd wager she's a brawler. A direct confrontation could get messy…"
>>513777
A shrouded figure keeping his head low and drink close
A pair of dirty looking lads playing cards
A fairly large diamond dog
An uneasy young unicorn who keeps glancing at the dog
A pegasus who sits very still and very straight
A beautiful unicorn mare who might pass for nobility had she dressed appropriately
A soldier of some kind who stays near the mare
A huge earth pony who keeps downing beer at an alarming rate and telling jokes to thin air
>>513778
"No, it seems to be a busy day indeed in my old mudhole. What'll you be having?"
>>513779
"Coming right up, horns."
He pours you something that fizzes mildly
>>513780
"Two dogs in one day? This really is a busy day."
He slides you a mug
>>513783
"And a lot of ponies assume you want to kidnap and/or eat them. I've met enough to know better, and to make those who live up to the stereotypes regret it deeply. One of the perks of being a barkeep is all the stories you hear. A lot of those contain good hints on how to keep yourself safe."
>>513785
It bubbles all the way down, and has a sharp, fruity taste.
>>513787
"Or we can try to make a diversion. Your call, really.
If you want, I can also go and talk to her, letting you take better aim."
>>513788
He raises a brow and gives a polite nod
"Good evening. Just letting time slide by as I wait for my acquaintances."
"And a lot of ponies assume you want to kidnap and/or eat them. I've met enough to know better, and to make those who live up to the stereotypes regret it deeply. One of the perks of being a barkeep is all the stories you hear. A lot of those contain good hints on how to keep yourself safe."
>>513785
It bubbles all the way down, and has a sharp, fruity taste.
>>513787
"Or we can try to make a diversion. Your call, really.
If you want, I can also go and talk to her, letting you take better aim."
>>513788
He raises a brow and gives a polite nod
"Good evening. Just letting time slide by as I wait for my acquaintances."
>>513790
He takes a deep breath and walks on over to the guard
"Afternoon, miss."
"…Huh? Oh. Afternoon. This is private property, please leave."
"I was… asked to come here" '1d10'
She tries to see through his bluff '1d10'
>>513791
"Calming Breeze." A fitting name. His tone is calm and cultured. Almost cold.
>>513792
"…SO I SAY TO HIM 'Hey! What's the difference between that tree and those three?' and while he thinks, I CUT THE THREE RIGHT DOWN and BAM, three crushed bandits! SO he asks 'what' an I go I DIDN'T NEED NO WEAPON TO FELL THOSE THREE! HA!"
>>513794
"Have you tried greasing your clothes?"
Roll #1 7 = 7 / Roll #2 4 = 4
He takes a deep breath and walks on over to the guard
"Afternoon, miss."
"…Huh? Oh. Afternoon. This is private property, please leave."
"I was… asked to come here" '1d10'
She tries to see through his bluff '1d10'
>>513791
"Calming Breeze." A fitting name. His tone is calm and cultured. Almost cold.
>>513792
"…SO I SAY TO HIM 'Hey! What's the difference between that tree and those three?' and while he thinks, I CUT THE THREE RIGHT DOWN and BAM, three crushed bandits! SO he asks 'what' an I go I DIDN'T NEED NO WEAPON TO FELL THOSE THREE! HA!"
>>513794
"Have you tried greasing your clothes?"
Roll #1 7 = 7 / Roll #2 4 = 4
>>513798
"…Aaaah, right, you must be the other guard they said they hired." she then lets out a burst of laughter "Guess you came here to relieve me. Good thing too. I've spent half the day trying to drink wanter to sober up for tonight's thing and I need to go water the plants like nobody's business. Stand here, shut up, and don't let anypony in. I'll be back in a minute."
She leaves, with an unsteady, wobbling gait. As she turns the corner around one of the side buildings she bashes her head on the wall, shouting "AW FUCK NOT AGAIN. AND THE SAME DAMN EYE!"
Cloudcover looks equal parts confused and embarrassed.
>>513801
His eye twitches a little
"What were you looking to buy?"
>>513804
"Love troubles, huh?
Can't say I really know the whole business with doggy romance. All I ever hear about it is butt sniffing and knots."
>>513807
The guard looks like he's about to object but the unicorn nods
"Go ahead."
"…Aaaah, right, you must be the other guard they said they hired." she then lets out a burst of laughter "Guess you came here to relieve me. Good thing too. I've spent half the day trying to drink wanter to sober up for tonight's thing and I need to go water the plants like nobody's business. Stand here, shut up, and don't let anypony in. I'll be back in a minute."
She leaves, with an unsteady, wobbling gait. As she turns the corner around one of the side buildings she bashes her head on the wall, shouting "AW FUCK NOT AGAIN. AND THE SAME DAMN EYE!"
Cloudcover looks equal parts confused and embarrassed.
>>513801
His eye twitches a little
"What were you looking to buy?"
>>513804
"Love troubles, huh?
Can't say I really know the whole business with doggy romance. All I ever hear about it is butt sniffing and knots."
>>513807
The guard looks like he's about to object but the unicorn nods
"Go ahead."
>>513816
"Well I take what I can from the stories I hear. Them I doubt you are in any mood to correct the holes in my information.
As for the pony, ever tried just telling that to her?"
>>513818
"You seem to know awfully little for a seller…"
>>513819
"Business opportunities. And you?"
>>513822
"I guess my analysis was a little lacking. We should hurry before the actual replacement guard arrives."
"Well I take what I can from the stories I hear. Them I doubt you are in any mood to correct the holes in my information.
As for the pony, ever tried just telling that to her?"
>>513818
"You seem to know awfully little for a seller…"
>>513819
"Business opportunities. And you?"
>>513822
"I guess my analysis was a little lacking. We should hurry before the actual replacement guard arrives."
>>513828
You force open back door and enter the new wing of the building. This looks mostly like a stockroom full of food, with two doors.
You can hear a lot of muffled noise though one of them, while the other is silent.
>>513829
"I prefer facts over make-believe."
He refills you mug
"And I prefer payment between refills."
>>513831
"Things should pick up any minute now…"
>>513832
"Really?
So I take it you have not registered and verified your goods with the bookkeeper then?"
You force open back door and enter the new wing of the building. This looks mostly like a stockroom full of food, with two doors.
You can hear a lot of muffled noise though one of them, while the other is silent.
>>513829
"I prefer facts over make-believe."
He refills you mug
"And I prefer payment between refills."
>>513831
"Things should pick up any minute now…"
>>513832
"Really?
So I take it you have not registered and verified your goods with the bookkeeper then?"
>>513845
The guard nudges her
"We should head on up."
She nods
"We should. Forgive me, goat."
They get up and head upstairs together.
…is that what she was talking about?
>>513846
"Those who know enough to make legit auctions here know where to find him. You're not some kind of spy are you?"
>>513847
This seems to be the wine storage. Neatly kept, dark and chilly. The stone floor has a strange echo to it.
>>513848
He nods towards Amber and the pegasus
"I think someone is about to get lynched."
The guard nudges her
"We should head on up."
She nods
"We should. Forgive me, goat."
They get up and head upstairs together.
…is that what she was talking about?
>>513846
"Those who know enough to make legit auctions here know where to find him. You're not some kind of spy are you?"
>>513847
This seems to be the wine storage. Neatly kept, dark and chilly. The stone floor has a strange echo to it.
>>513848
He nods towards Amber and the pegasus
"I think someone is about to get lynched."
>>513856
"No, I just… *sigh* I did something stupid, alright? I got myself in debt with some ponies. The kind of ponies you don't want to be in debt to. When I heard somepony mention there was an auction of some kind going on here, I figured that… maybe if I sold these for a high enough price, I could… you know, fix things."
"No, I just… *sigh* I did something stupid, alright? I got myself in debt with some ponies. The kind of ponies you don't want to be in debt to. When I heard somepony mention there was an auction of some kind going on here, I figured that… maybe if I sold these for a high enough price, I could… you know, fix things."
>>513873
You twist the tap in the largest barrel and the entire front opens up like a door, revealing stairs inside
"Good work!"
>>513874
"How's a knot work? I mean for the longest time I assumed you dogs were just really into rope games but?"
>>513870
They head for a room and shut the door
Seems odd they'd be so theatrical about this.
>>513876
"Well well, a classic story indeed. Tell you what. You help me out a little, and I'll buy your things."
You twist the tap in the largest barrel and the entire front opens up like a door, revealing stairs inside
"Good work!"
>>513874
"How's a knot work? I mean for the longest time I assumed you dogs were just really into rope games but?"
>>513870
They head for a room and shut the door
Seems odd they'd be so theatrical about this.
>>513876
"Well well, a classic story indeed. Tell you what. You help me out a little, and I'll buy your things."
>>513890
"Now, imagine that ponies can do just that. You can put the ring on the finger then take it off any time you want. If we wanted to bring dogs into this, imagine that after putting the ring on -let's say that this ring feels really good- your finger would get swollen and you couldn't get the ring off for a while."
Drink the rest of my ale.
"So that's knots, basically."
"Now, imagine that ponies can do just that. You can put the ring on the finger then take it off any time you want. If we wanted to bring dogs into this, imagine that after putting the ring on -let's say that this ring feels really good- your finger would get swollen and you couldn't get the ring off for a while."
Drink the rest of my ale.
"So that's knots, basically."
>>513894
"Make it out alive"
He jumps up, pointing a hoof at you
"THIS GUY IS A GUARD! HE'S COME TO BUST THE AUCTION!"
The barkeep, the lads and the shrouded pony pull weapons and lock eyes on you
The pegasus whistles and slips away towards the back.
>>513892
Some commotion on the bar's side causes all the hoofsteps to move away from you. The road is clear.
>>513895
Someone downstairs is shouting about a spy messing with the auction, which causes someone in one of the rooms to start frantically opening what sounds like a dozen locks.
>>513898
He throws the notebook down and pulls a sword as the pegasus starts shouting about spies
"Make it out alive"
He jumps up, pointing a hoof at you
"THIS GUY IS A GUARD! HE'S COME TO BUST THE AUCTION!"
The barkeep, the lads and the shrouded pony pull weapons and lock eyes on you
The pegasus whistles and slips away towards the back.
>>513892
Some commotion on the bar's side causes all the hoofsteps to move away from you. The road is clear.
>>513895
Someone downstairs is shouting about a spy messing with the auction, which causes someone in one of the rooms to start frantically opening what sounds like a dozen locks.
>>513898
He throws the notebook down and pulls a sword as the pegasus starts shouting about spies
>>513907
With a thundering smash, Primrose breaks down the door, knocking the pony behind it over.
At the same moment, the unicorn and her guard burst out of their room and storm into the locked room
>>513908
>>513912
>>513914
Everyone in the bar looks really on edge. This situation could go one way or another.
The pegasus seems to have vanished though.
>>513910
The good news is this is clearly the auction room.
The bad news is, whoever was here must have escaped via some other route.
With a thundering smash, Primrose breaks down the door, knocking the pony behind it over.
At the same moment, the unicorn and her guard burst out of their room and storm into the locked room
>>513908
>>513912
>>513914
Everyone in the bar looks really on edge. This situation could go one way or another.
The pegasus seems to have vanished though.
>>513910
The good news is this is clearly the auction room.
The bad news is, whoever was here must have escaped via some other route.
>>513918
The guard has him at swordpoint
The unicorn picks up a large book he dropped on the floor
He looks terrified
"HELP I'M BEING ROBBED!"
>>513920
Two.
One is a neat staircase leading up on the other side of the room. The other is a hasty tunnel that was probably behind a shelf that was knocked over recently.
>>513917
>>513923
The twitchy pony holds the big earth pony back, pleading him not to start another bar brawl
The big dog just looks at the scene with a blank expression
After a while, they all put their weapons away and the barkeep tells the troublemakers to behave or leave.
The twitchy unicorn breathes a sigh of relief and walks out.
The guard has him at swordpoint
The unicorn picks up a large book he dropped on the floor
He looks terrified
"HELP I'M BEING ROBBED!"
>>513920
Two.
One is a neat staircase leading up on the other side of the room. The other is a hasty tunnel that was probably behind a shelf that was knocked over recently.
>>513917
>>513923
The twitchy pony holds the big earth pony back, pleading him not to start another bar brawl
The big dog just looks at the scene with a blank expression
After a while, they all put their weapons away and the barkeep tells the troublemakers to behave or leave.
The twitchy unicorn breathes a sigh of relief and walks out.
>>513936
"It contains things that are very important to me and my family."
>>513938
He quickly heads around to a side alley
>>513939
"That the pony you were talking about earlier?"
>>513941
As you reach the end, you find some signs of a fight, lots of hoofprints and see a pegasus calmly walking away in one direction, and a glimpse of several ponies running in the opposite one.
"It contains things that are very important to me and my family."
>>513938
He quickly heads around to a side alley
>>513939
"That the pony you were talking about earlier?"
>>513941
As you reach the end, you find some signs of a fight, lots of hoofprints and see a pegasus calmly walking away in one direction, and a glimpse of several ponies running in the opposite one.
>>513956
"D-d-did you get it?"
"Of course."
"Oh thank the sun and stars. When you pulled that diversion I thought we'd all die in there."
"Please. My plans have never failed us."
"Alright. Let me see it then."
>>513957
He nods and rushes after the group.
You turn to follow the pegasus and see him stop to chat with a weedy unicorn on an alley.
>>513958
"…I admit I sort of lost count."
>>513959
The pony being held at swordpoint protests
"H-hey! That's MY book! Get your hooves off it! Both of you!"
"D-d-did you get it?"
"Of course."
"Oh thank the sun and stars. When you pulled that diversion I thought we'd all die in there."
"Please. My plans have never failed us."
"Alright. Let me see it then."
>>513957
He nods and rushes after the group.
You turn to follow the pegasus and see him stop to chat with a weedy unicorn on an alley.
>>513958
"…I admit I sort of lost count."
>>513959
The pony being held at swordpoint protests
"H-hey! That's MY book! Get your hooves off it! Both of you!"
>>513964
"Oh right. Yeah. There was going to big a fancy gathering here later tonight, hence everyone being kinda twitchy."
>>513968
The unicorn starts reading a book the pegasus gives him. The pegasus then whistles and holds out a hoof.
>>513966
Someone outside whistles
The unicorn grabs the book and throws it out the window.
She then gives a bitchy smile "Oops. Butterhorn~"
>>513965
The pegasus whistles.
Seconds later, a heavy book falls on your head.
"Oh right. Yeah. There was going to big a fancy gathering here later tonight, hence everyone being kinda twitchy."
>>513968
The unicorn starts reading a book the pegasus gives him. The pegasus then whistles and holds out a hoof.
>>513966
Someone outside whistles
The unicorn grabs the book and throws it out the window.
She then gives a bitchy smile "Oops. Butterhorn~"
>>513965
The pegasus whistles.
Seconds later, a heavy book falls on your head.
>>513977
"I'd still like to know where you got the information about this place. I didn't come alone. You won't make it to the exit door unscathed. You can comply with us, tell your tale, and most likely get let out with a warning to keep it quiet, or you can try to force your way out and get far more than what you had bargained for."
Tie up the Auctioneer in the meantime. "We have some questions for you, first of all is do you feel any excessive pain?"
"I'd still like to know where you got the information about this place. I didn't come alone. You won't make it to the exit door unscathed. You can comply with us, tell your tale, and most likely get let out with a warning to keep it quiet, or you can try to force your way out and get far more than what you had bargained for."
Tie up the Auctioneer in the meantime. "We have some questions for you, first of all is do you feel any excessive pain?"
>>513981
>>513980
Ahem, excuse me, mislinked.
The book fell somewhere further down the alley, behind some boxes.
>>513982
At best you can huddle behind these boxes.
>>513983
"It's in everypony's best interest to not make this into a bloodbath. You are not the only one with reinforcements here."
The guard keeps silent and remains between her and you Looking closely, it seems like his uniform was stripped of insignias rather hastily. You can still see a vague outline where they once were. Between this and her strikingly noble demeanor…
"Now if you'd be so kind, I have associates to rendezvous with downstairs."
>>513984
"One of my books, none of your business."
He seems a lot more agitated than he was back in the bar.
>>513980
Ahem, excuse me, mislinked.
The book fell somewhere further down the alley, behind some boxes.
>>513982
At best you can huddle behind these boxes.
>>513983
"It's in everypony's best interest to not make this into a bloodbath. You are not the only one with reinforcements here."
The guard keeps silent and remains between her and you Looking closely, it seems like his uniform was stripped of insignias rather hastily. You can still see a vague outline where they once were. Between this and her strikingly noble demeanor…
"Now if you'd be so kind, I have associates to rendezvous with downstairs."
>>513984
"One of my books, none of your business."
He seems a lot more agitated than he was back in the bar.
>>513989
Given the familiar whimpering, you'd guess Eira has it behind those boxes over yonder.
>>513991
The pegasus raises a brow, then whistles again.
You can hear a lot of movement in the bar.
>>513997
"What we came here for are the two halves of the auction inventory. And now that the plan has been executed, we can leave to hunt those treasures down properly.
We have no use for the Auctioneer. Whatever he knew, we know already. I wish you a good day."
She tries to leave
Given the familiar whimpering, you'd guess Eira has it behind those boxes over yonder.
>>513991
The pegasus raises a brow, then whistles again.
You can hear a lot of movement in the bar.
>>513997
"What we came here for are the two halves of the auction inventory. And now that the plan has been executed, we can leave to hunt those treasures down properly.
We have no use for the Auctioneer. Whatever he knew, we know already. I wish you a good day."
She tries to leave
>>514004
O hai Eira
>>514006
You realize there is a very large diamond dog behind you.
And a hulking earth pony next to him.
They are both heavily armed.
And they are both on his side.
"I think not. Now, where is the other half of my book?"
>>514007
She and her guard walk down the stairs and out the door
The auctioneer, an older pony with a graying, well kept mane and expensive clothes sighs
"Lets get on with it then…"
O hai Eira
>>514006
You realize there is a very large diamond dog behind you.
And a hulking earth pony next to him.
They are both heavily armed.
And they are both on his side.
"I think not. Now, where is the other half of my book?"
>>514007
She and her guard walk down the stairs and out the door
The auctioneer, an older pony with a graying, well kept mane and expensive clothes sighs
"Lets get on with it then…"
>>514022
"Depends, pony.
How do you treat your soldiers?
Wingpony there likes to think I stupid or something."
>>514023
He rolls his eyes
"The book contains half the information related to the numbers of the auctioned articles and their storage locations."
>>514031
>>514032
The pegasus glances back
"Hey! What's going on back there?"
"Depends, pony.
How do you treat your soldiers?
Wingpony there likes to think I stupid or something."
>>514023
He rolls his eyes
"The book contains half the information related to the numbers of the auctioned articles and their storage locations."
>>514031
>>514032
The pegasus glances back
"Hey! What's going on back there?"
>>514039
It's empty.
The barkeep gives the bookkeep a smirk
"Things went sour again, huh?"
"Unfortunately yes. And I'm not paying for your cheap flimsy door."
>>514040
"So long as I not regarded as foolish, I consider it better offer."
#Gained new Minion: Dulltooth.
Diamond Dog M
7/5
Slam
Grapple
Suppress
Martial Defender
>>514035
The pegasus, unicorn and earth pony do not budge.
"I am going nowhere without my book."
It's empty.
The barkeep gives the bookkeep a smirk
"Things went sour again, huh?"
"Unfortunately yes. And I'm not paying for your cheap flimsy door."
>>514040
"So long as I not regarded as foolish, I consider it better offer."
#Gained new Minion: Dulltooth.
Diamond Dog M
7/5
Slam
Grapple
Suppress
Martial Defender
>>514035
The pegasus, unicorn and earth pony do not budge.
"I am going nowhere without my book."
>>514042
The pegasus sighs
"Grandheart, would you kindly?"
The earth pony hefts his two massive swords and takes a stance
"LISTEN HERE BITCH, we're on a mission here. A QUEST! One of pure heart and BURRRRRNING PASSION and the first step on this fantastic journey demands we get that book."
>>514043
His eye twitches heavily
"I know the books is somewhere here. And I can ill afford to have you lot misplacing it, seeing as it's the one thing that can possibly allow ANY OF US a chance at finding those stolen artifacts.
NOW WHERE IS IT!?"
The pegasus sighs
"Grandheart, would you kindly?"
The earth pony hefts his two massive swords and takes a stance
"LISTEN HERE BITCH, we're on a mission here. A QUEST! One of pure heart and BURRRRRNING PASSION and the first step on this fantastic journey demands we get that book."
>>514043
His eye twitches heavily
"I know the books is somewhere here. And I can ill afford to have you lot misplacing it, seeing as it's the one thing that can possibly allow ANY OF US a chance at finding those stolen artifacts.
NOW WHERE IS IT!?"
>>514050
>>514051
The pegasus takes a few deep breaths to calm down
"In case you managed to find the intellect to actually read the book, you'd know it's gibberish.
You need both books, that and the one we have, to make sense of either.
So either we paint this alley red and see who has eyes left for any reading, or you give yours to us and there will be no-"
"Or we could cooperate."
The pegasus glares at Lady Sunset, but doesn't say anything.
>>514051
The pegasus takes a few deep breaths to calm down
"In case you managed to find the intellect to actually read the book, you'd know it's gibberish.
You need both books, that and the one we have, to make sense of either.
So either we paint this alley red and see who has eyes left for any reading, or you give yours to us and there will be no-"
"Or we could cooperate."
The pegasus glares at Lady Sunset, but doesn't say anything.
>>514063
"Is not just trust. She dislike her position in life."
The lady gives him a sour look
"Do you mind you lumbering beast? I'm right here."
>>514065
Calming breeze gives lady Sunset a snarky look
"Had you aimed better, there would have been no need for this."
>>514066
"Dulltooth.
Is deceptive name. Fangs actually rather sharp."
"Is not just trust. She dislike her position in life."
The lady gives him a sour look
"Do you mind you lumbering beast? I'm right here."
>>514065
Calming breeze gives lady Sunset a snarky look
"Had you aimed better, there would have been no need for this."
>>514066
"Dulltooth.
Is deceptive name. Fangs actually rather sharp."
>>514074
"There is power in agility. We don't need the ballast of that many bodies."
The Pegasus Calming Breeze is writing down locations as he deciphers them from the encrypted books.
>>514073
"He used to be under my command. He'll probably switch owners again tomorrow.
Not that I'd need one like him. I am capable of plenty on my own."
>>514075
"Potato, tomato, or whatever that saying is.
Are we quite done, Calming?"
"Half way. There is far more useless info here than I thought."
"There is power in agility. We don't need the ballast of that many bodies."
The Pegasus Calming Breeze is writing down locations as he deciphers them from the encrypted books.
>>514073
"He used to be under my command. He'll probably switch owners again tomorrow.
Not that I'd need one like him. I am capable of plenty on my own."
>>514075
"Potato, tomato, or whatever that saying is.
Are we quite done, Calming?"
"Half way. There is far more useless info here than I thought."
You follow the alleys where Cloudcover was last seen, and after taking a few turns marked by loose teeth, shreds of clothing, blood drips and face prints on walls, you find the somewhat based up Cloudcover wrestling with an even more beat up looking pony. Probably one of the guys from the basement.
>>514164
…why the three rolls?
You leap in, smashing him aside
>>514170
You shoot Jonica in the back of the head
>>514168
Suddenly, you black out
>>514171
>>514167
>>514178
Seeing just how outnumbered he is, the pony surrenders.
Cloudcover rubs his chin and sits down to take a breather
"Good job. The others got away but I caught this one."
…why the three rolls?
You leap in, smashing him aside
>>514170
You shoot Jonica in the back of the head
>>514168
Suddenly, you black out
>>514171
>>514167
>>514178
Seeing just how outnumbered he is, the pony surrenders.
Cloudcover rubs his chin and sits down to take a breather
"Good job. The others got away but I caught this one."
>>514207
Your eyes linger perhaps a bit too long on all the torn clothes that expose his work-hardened body. Your eyes meet as he brushes his rugged mane aside, revealing his eyes, like pools of piercing steel. As his deep red lips part softly he speaks with the voice of one of a stallion of passion and power
"Uh… what are you looking at?"
>>514208
>>514212
"I work as security and heavy lifting, so I'm low on the info end of things. Best I can tell you is there were five major items to be sold today. But only the bookkeepers knew the locations they are being kept safe at."
Your eyes linger perhaps a bit too long on all the torn clothes that expose his work-hardened body. Your eyes meet as he brushes his rugged mane aside, revealing his eyes, like pools of piercing steel. As his deep red lips part softly he speaks with the voice of one of a stallion of passion and power
"Uh… what are you looking at?"
>>514208
>>514212
"I work as security and heavy lifting, so I'm low on the info end of things. Best I can tell you is there were five major items to be sold today. But only the bookkeepers knew the locations they are being kept safe at."
>>514232
"Interesting." I hand her the tools, then turn back to Dulltooth.
"The hothead we just saved is Cloudcover. He's an off-duty guard who decided to help us out.
The other Crystal pony is Coral Burst. She's a good friend to have in a pinch.
Let's see… Aurelius over there is a bit of a stickler for the rules. Eira… Well, Cassie and her have been partners since before I met them, so ask Cassie what she's if you want.
…Wow. We're a bigger group than I realized. So, any questions?"
"Interesting." I hand her the tools, then turn back to Dulltooth.
"The hothead we just saved is Cloudcover. He's an off-duty guard who decided to help us out.
The other Crystal pony is Coral Burst. She's a good friend to have in a pinch.
Let's see… Aurelius over there is a bit of a stickler for the rules. Eira… Well, Cassie and her have been partners since before I met them, so ask Cassie what she's if you want.
…Wow. We're a bigger group than I realized. So, any questions?"
>>514274
"Well not like it's any huge secret info.
Bare Hills is home to an old coal mine that was shut down almost a decade ago after it dried up.
Silent Lake is this old town built near its namesake lake, but after New Silent Lake was built on the other, actually populated, side of said lake, the old town emptied out pretty fast. Though some ponies insists it was because of ghosts."
>>514269
He blushes a little but keeps a straight face
"Well not like it's any huge secret info.
Bare Hills is home to an old coal mine that was shut down almost a decade ago after it dried up.
Silent Lake is this old town built near its namesake lake, but after New Silent Lake was built on the other, actually populated, side of said lake, the old town emptied out pretty fast. Though some ponies insists it was because of ghosts."
>>514269
He blushes a little but keeps a straight face
"Right. I think it's time we got ourselves a meal and made a plan of action. We have plenty of work to do before these crimes are resolved, and it won't get done by sitting around.
Also, my neck is killing me.
LETS MOVE!"
Do you want your next destination to be #Bare Hills Mine or #Silent Lake Ghost Town?
Also, my neck is killing me.
LETS MOVE!"
Do you want your next destination to be #Bare Hills Mine or #Silent Lake Ghost Town?
And so you set off on the first portion of your treasure hunt to locate the Mirror of Inner Demons. The ominously named thing belonged to House Falconwreath, who has a long history of alleged ties to assassin orders and shady political murders. Or, well, everyone is accused of those, but Falconwreath has taken more flak for it than any other noble house. A common rumor says that the Mirror can actually be seen in a portrait of one of the old heads of the house. Supposedly the mirror, though behind Lord Falconwreath, shows his reflection looking at the viewer, and that there is a corpse where the painter would have been sitting. Of course this is all rubbish. The supposed reflection of the lord is in fact the painter painting himself into the painting, and the "corpse" is just a shadow half a brush wide in the already tiny mirror. Or, at least, this is what they say when asked.
You have tracked the mirror's location to Silent Lake. An old town on the side of the lake it was named after. It has a colorful history of supernatural phenomena and is the center of much folklore in the region.
But before you head out into the old town, you can make a little rest stop at New Silent Lake, a modern, well-off town on the other side of the lake across from the old one. Who knows, maybe some of the folklore is interesting, or even helpful?
You have tracked the mirror's location to Silent Lake. An old town on the side of the lake it was named after. It has a colorful history of supernatural phenomena and is the center of much folklore in the region.
But before you head out into the old town, you can make a little rest stop at New Silent Lake, a modern, well-off town on the other side of the lake across from the old one. Who knows, maybe some of the folklore is interesting, or even helpful?
>>514666
>>514667
>>514668
>>514670
The town seems decently well off. It's not Canterlot, sure, but it's more than you'd expect for a fishing village.
…come to think of it, there doesn't seem to be any kind of dock here. Maybe there are no fish in the lake?
As you had for the nearby pub, you pass a group of kids playing in a fairly large pool. One puts on a blindfold while the others toss little items in the pool, and then the blindfolded one dives in to go look for them. They seem to be having fun, considering all the laughing and splashing. You also pass an older couple who are just lazing around in the sun, eating daisies and sipping mead. The afternoon sun is warm and the breeze from the lake is refreshing. This seems like a very comfy place indeed.
The pub itself, known as the Sleepy Hollow, is far from packed. A few ponies here and there, but beyond a slight buzz of conversation, it's calm.
>>514667
>>514668
>>514670
The town seems decently well off. It's not Canterlot, sure, but it's more than you'd expect for a fishing village.
…come to think of it, there doesn't seem to be any kind of dock here. Maybe there are no fish in the lake?
As you had for the nearby pub, you pass a group of kids playing in a fairly large pool. One puts on a blindfold while the others toss little items in the pool, and then the blindfolded one dives in to go look for them. They seem to be having fun, considering all the laughing and splashing. You also pass an older couple who are just lazing around in the sun, eating daisies and sipping mead. The afternoon sun is warm and the breeze from the lake is refreshing. This seems like a very comfy place indeed.
The pub itself, known as the Sleepy Hollow, is far from packed. A few ponies here and there, but beyond a slight buzz of conversation, it's calm.
>>514681
"Just the way we like 'em. This is a quiet town with no need for a lot of noise and hustle."
>>514679
>>514682
He leisurely pours a pair of drinks
"Only two kinds of people ever really show up here. Those interested in the local folklore, and those looking for a quiet place to take their mind off things. Which ones are you?"
"Just the way we like 'em. This is a quiet town with no need for a lot of noise and hustle."
>>514679
>>514682
He leisurely pours a pair of drinks
"Only two kinds of people ever really show up here. Those interested in the local folklore, and those looking for a quiet place to take their mind off things. Which ones are you?"
>>514694
>>514696
>>514705
"Well, legend has it that at the bottom of Silent Lake, the lake which this town was named after, sleeps a terrible monster. A beast that defies description that hungers for the flesh of the living. When it awakens, it seeps out from the lake and devours any who meet its gaze, eating their bodies and leaving their souls to forever wander this world. And if it is not pleased with its meal, it will bring forth terrible misfortune in revenge. This is why the old town of Silent Lake was such an unfortunate place. It must have burned down two dozen times and been wiped out by storms another half dozen. But they always rebuilt on top of the ruins, hoping the beast would not return. And it always did. That is, until the blind hero walked into the lake to face it, and stopped it from awakening. None know how he did it, but since then a terrible ritual was enacted every few years to ensure the beast could no longer return. A ritual so ghastly none dare even ask what it originally was like."
His tone becomes a lot less spooky
"But over time it just sort of turned into a little annual festival featuring lots of cooking and swimming. We still celebrate it here, even if we did move over to the other side of the lake. I guess it does its job. No calamities have ever plagues New Silent Lake.
Well, either its the festival, or it's because this town is behind the beast's back so it can't see us. Haha!"
>>514696
>>514705
"Well, legend has it that at the bottom of Silent Lake, the lake which this town was named after, sleeps a terrible monster. A beast that defies description that hungers for the flesh of the living. When it awakens, it seeps out from the lake and devours any who meet its gaze, eating their bodies and leaving their souls to forever wander this world. And if it is not pleased with its meal, it will bring forth terrible misfortune in revenge. This is why the old town of Silent Lake was such an unfortunate place. It must have burned down two dozen times and been wiped out by storms another half dozen. But they always rebuilt on top of the ruins, hoping the beast would not return. And it always did. That is, until the blind hero walked into the lake to face it, and stopped it from awakening. None know how he did it, but since then a terrible ritual was enacted every few years to ensure the beast could no longer return. A ritual so ghastly none dare even ask what it originally was like."
His tone becomes a lot less spooky
"But over time it just sort of turned into a little annual festival featuring lots of cooking and swimming. We still celebrate it here, even if we did move over to the other side of the lake. I guess it does its job. No calamities have ever plagues New Silent Lake.
Well, either its the festival, or it's because this town is behind the beast's back so it can't see us. Haha!"
>>514713
"Yep. That's what the legend says."
A bespectacled pony pokes his head into the conversation
"Ahem. If I may interject, the original legend says he walked into the lake weighed down with rocks. This is still present in the older texts describing the Four Rituals of Silencing, and is known as the Ritual of Binding."
The barkeep looks displeased
"Trivial, can you please try and not to needlessly worry the guests for once with your tales of gore and horror?"
>>514719
He shrugs
"Eh. Probably. That and ghost hunters.
Just the other day a pair of priests came around asking for directions there. Said their were going to fight off the spirits of the damned and cleanse the area or something."
"Yep. That's what the legend says."
A bespectacled pony pokes his head into the conversation
"Ahem. If I may interject, the original legend says he walked into the lake weighed down with rocks. This is still present in the older texts describing the Four Rituals of Silencing, and is known as the Ritual of Binding."
The barkeep looks displeased
"Trivial, can you please try and not to needlessly worry the guests for once with your tales of gore and horror?"
>>514719
He shrugs
"Eh. Probably. That and ghost hunters.
Just the other day a pair of priests came around asking for directions there. Said their were going to fight off the spirits of the damned and cleanse the area or something."
>>514725
Trivial beams at this
"Trivial Pursuit, historian, folklorist and fan of all things old and forgotten.
Now forget the happy little cooking festivals and diving games you just heard about. I have uncovered numerous older texts related to the rituals and their origins. Four rituals were used to emulate the original hero's feat - the Ritual of Binding, the Ritual of Blinding, the Ritual of Sacrifice and the Ritual of Drowning. Or, well, those are the closest translations I have been able to give their original names."
The barkeep rolls his eyes and goes clean some glasses
"…right, so, while the texts were only partially readable, I have pieced together what I believe are the most plausible original forms of the Four Rituals as well as the original feats of the Hero.
See, the oldest texts I have found tell that the blind hero carried a sacrifice of dead flesh to the bottom of the lake. With a little derivative logic it's easy to see what really happened here. A blind pony, wounded and dying, tied heavy stones to himself and walked into the lake to be eaten by the monster. Now, granted, again that is a bit of a liberal translation but the implications are there. The original was a bit more poetic, speaking of flesh that sleeps upon the blossom of corpses and of seeds of darkness that make it bitter. A very wordy way to say 'dying pony with a heavy heart'. Obviously."
He sure like talking a lot…
Trivial beams at this
"Trivial Pursuit, historian, folklorist and fan of all things old and forgotten.
Now forget the happy little cooking festivals and diving games you just heard about. I have uncovered numerous older texts related to the rituals and their origins. Four rituals were used to emulate the original hero's feat - the Ritual of Binding, the Ritual of Blinding, the Ritual of Sacrifice and the Ritual of Drowning. Or, well, those are the closest translations I have been able to give their original names."
The barkeep rolls his eyes and goes clean some glasses
"…right, so, while the texts were only partially readable, I have pieced together what I believe are the most plausible original forms of the Four Rituals as well as the original feats of the Hero.
See, the oldest texts I have found tell that the blind hero carried a sacrifice of dead flesh to the bottom of the lake. With a little derivative logic it's easy to see what really happened here. A blind pony, wounded and dying, tied heavy stones to himself and walked into the lake to be eaten by the monster. Now, granted, again that is a bit of a liberal translation but the implications are there. The original was a bit more poetic, speaking of flesh that sleeps upon the blossom of corpses and of seeds of darkness that make it bitter. A very wordy way to say 'dying pony with a heavy heart'. Obviously."
He sure like talking a lot…
>>514751
"Well that's where I needed to apply a bit of interpretation, given how next to nothing of the original texts remain. Still. With the limited writings as landmarks and more modern traditions to work backwards from, I believe I have a fairly good image of what the original rituals were like.
The Ritual of Blinding is obvious even from the name. The beast eats any who meets its gaze, so they take the sacrifice's eyes.
The Ritual of Binding, though a very rough translation, is related to affixing rocks and weights to the sacrifice to make it sink in the lake. They also probably had a symbolic role in representing the weight of responsibility.
The Ritual of Sacrifice mentions the cutting and burning of flesh, so it was probably a ritual mutilation of the sacrifice to represent the broken body of the original hero
And finally what I assume was originally called the Ritual of Drowning. It mentions the sacrifice is never seen again, so my interpretation is that the blind, bleeding and burnt sacrifice and its weights are thrown in the lake to be eaten by the beast."
The bar keeper groans
>>514752
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
"Well that's where I needed to apply a bit of interpretation, given how next to nothing of the original texts remain. Still. With the limited writings as landmarks and more modern traditions to work backwards from, I believe I have a fairly good image of what the original rituals were like.
The Ritual of Blinding is obvious even from the name. The beast eats any who meets its gaze, so they take the sacrifice's eyes.
The Ritual of Binding, though a very rough translation, is related to affixing rocks and weights to the sacrifice to make it sink in the lake. They also probably had a symbolic role in representing the weight of responsibility.
The Ritual of Sacrifice mentions the cutting and burning of flesh, so it was probably a ritual mutilation of the sacrifice to represent the broken body of the original hero
And finally what I assume was originally called the Ritual of Drowning. It mentions the sacrifice is never seen again, so my interpretation is that the blind, bleeding and burnt sacrifice and its weights are thrown in the lake to be eaten by the beast."
The bar keeper groans
>>514752
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
>>514762
"Miscellaneous reports of hauntings are common in the history of old Silent Lake. Though some can be chalked down to the architecture of the town. Since it was built on old foundations and ruins, it's not uncommon to accidentally run into an old grave when trying to build."
>>514766
"They could have been going on for hundreds of years for all we know"
>>514767
"Perhaps they did but did not live to tell the taaaaaaale"
"Miscellaneous reports of hauntings are common in the history of old Silent Lake. Though some can be chalked down to the architecture of the town. Since it was built on old foundations and ruins, it's not uncommon to accidentally run into an old grave when trying to build."
>>514766
"They could have been going on for hundreds of years for all we know"
>>514767
"Perhaps they did but did not live to tell the taaaaaaale"
>>514779
"A line of a poem related to the Ritual of Sacrifice says the sacrifice was 'Laid to rest upon the blossoms of corpses, made bitter by seeds of dark.' Or, so I felt the translation worked best. It could also be read as 'black seeds' or even 'black fruit' if you prefer that interpretation."
>>514781
"Dilapidated houses, pests, weeds, probably the bodies of a few moronic ghost hunters, and a whole lot of angry spirits."
>>514780
"All stories began somewhere, and those beginnings are factual."
"A line of a poem related to the Ritual of Sacrifice says the sacrifice was 'Laid to rest upon the blossoms of corpses, made bitter by seeds of dark.' Or, so I felt the translation worked best. It could also be read as 'black seeds' or even 'black fruit' if you prefer that interpretation."
>>514781
"Dilapidated houses, pests, weeds, probably the bodies of a few moronic ghost hunters, and a whole lot of angry spirits."
>>514780
"All stories began somewhere, and those beginnings are factual."
>>514793
"Is not really related to anything. Bad things maybe happen in past. Still, mirror is in town. That is what we after, not solving ghost mysteries."
>>514794
He grumbles but does not answer
>>514795
"Well, these sort of elements do show up in all kinds of poetry and literature. Fruits of ill deeds, seeds of evil and other such make for fine metaphorical elements."
Cloudcover is looking out the window, gazing out over the lake
"Is not really related to anything. Bad things maybe happen in past. Still, mirror is in town. That is what we after, not solving ghost mysteries."
>>514794
He grumbles but does not answer
>>514795
"Well, these sort of elements do show up in all kinds of poetry and literature. Fruits of ill deeds, seeds of evil and other such make for fine metaphorical elements."
Cloudcover is looking out the window, gazing out over the lake
>>514813
"It's all very convenient is it not? Ghost town with dangerous architecture and horrible past? 'Stupid' ghost hunters go there and never come back because they got careless in some abandoned building? Where better to hide your stolen goods. Roll your goons in flour and send them out on patrol as 'ghosts', hide the loot in the old basements and collapse most entrances on purpose. A perfect hideout."
>>514815
>>514819
"Day before yesterday maybe? Or then it was yesterday. My sense of time is terrible."
"It's all very convenient is it not? Ghost town with dangerous architecture and horrible past? 'Stupid' ghost hunters go there and never come back because they got careless in some abandoned building? Where better to hide your stolen goods. Roll your goons in flour and send them out on patrol as 'ghosts', hide the loot in the old basements and collapse most entrances on purpose. A perfect hideout."
>>514815
>>514819
"Day before yesterday maybe? Or then it was yesterday. My sense of time is terrible."
>>514823
"I wouldn't trust that guy's 'translations' for a minute. I've seen his kind. Failed scholars looking to overinflate their discoveries in an effort to break into the scientific high society. He finds some old dark poetry and after a little liberal translating claims he discovered three ancient civilizations and the origins of Alicorns. It's sad, really."
>>514825
>>514826
"Watch yourselves out there. You never know when the beast may huuuuunger!"
The barkeep throws a wet sponge at Trivial Pursuit
"Oh shut your face already."
"I wouldn't trust that guy's 'translations' for a minute. I've seen his kind. Failed scholars looking to overinflate their discoveries in an effort to break into the scientific high society. He finds some old dark poetry and after a little liberal translating claims he discovered three ancient civilizations and the origins of Alicorns. It's sad, really."
>>514825
>>514826
"Watch yourselves out there. You never know when the beast may huuuuunger!"
The barkeep throws a wet sponge at Trivial Pursuit
"Oh shut your face already."
>>514861
>>514863
>>514864
"Very well then. Pack your bags, we're moving out."
You head out of New Silent Lake and start navigating your way around the body of water in the rays of the afternoon sun. If you keep a good pace, you can probably make it there a bit before sundown.
From this distance, it doesn't look so bad. Some of the houses are wonky and lean in odd ways, but that just makes the place feel quirky and full of personality. How bad of a ghost town could it possibly be?
>>514863
>>514864
"Very well then. Pack your bags, we're moving out."
You head out of New Silent Lake and start navigating your way around the body of water in the rays of the afternoon sun. If you keep a good pace, you can probably make it there a bit before sundown.
From this distance, it doesn't look so bad. Some of the houses are wonky and lean in odd ways, but that just makes the place feel quirky and full of personality. How bad of a ghost town could it possibly be?
>>514921
The sun is setting, giving everything a blazing coat of red and orange, as if the whole town was on fire, with time slowed down to a crawl.
It is very quiet here. From your approach you could see several buildings that could serve as possible hideouts. Most prominently the large old mansion that was probably a town hall at some point or other. It connected to other buildings as well, forming a larger complex.
To get there, you'll need to reach the town square first.
The sun is setting, giving everything a blazing coat of red and orange, as if the whole town was on fire, with time slowed down to a crawl.
It is very quiet here. From your approach you could see several buildings that could serve as possible hideouts. Most prominently the large old mansion that was probably a town hall at some point or other. It connected to other buildings as well, forming a larger complex.
To get there, you'll need to reach the town square first.
>>514927
>>514928
You enter the town outskirts. The town square shouldn't be too far away, provided you can use the straight road.
>>514929
…which is sadly not an option. One of the large buildings has collapsed on the road, blocking it off entirely.
Your options are to either find an alternative route via the streets, or try breaking into and navigating one of the buildings.
>>514928
You enter the town outskirts. The town square shouldn't be too far away, provided you can use the straight road.
>>514929
…which is sadly not an option. One of the large buildings has collapsed on the road, blocking it off entirely.
Your options are to either find an alternative route via the streets, or try breaking into and navigating one of the buildings.
>>514938
>>514939
>>514942
The way opens with a wet crack.
Looks like this used to be a lobby of some kind, retrofitted from a larger room by adding an extra wall to cut it in half. Said wall is in better shape than the rest of the room, and seemingly thinner than the older walls around it.
There is a door leading to the right, or you could try breaking the thin wall.
>>514939
>>514942
The way opens with a wet crack.
Looks like this used to be a lobby of some kind, retrofitted from a larger room by adding an extra wall to cut it in half. Said wall is in better shape than the rest of the room, and seemingly thinner than the older walls around it.
There is a door leading to the right, or you could try breaking the thin wall.
>>514957
>>514958
Seems like this is a common room. Possibly a dining room.
Some dishes are on the table
>>514955
You punch the thin wall and crack it. Behind it you can see a dark room that seems to be rather long. It has no obvious windows, but extends in the direction you wanted to go to pass the broken building
>>514958
Seems like this is a common room. Possibly a dining room.
Some dishes are on the table
>>514955
You punch the thin wall and crack it. Behind it you can see a dark room that seems to be rather long. It has no obvious windows, but extends in the direction you wanted to go to pass the broken building
>>514974
You're not dumb.
Careful not to light the house on fire with it.
>>514976
>>514977
As you head through the crack, you hear faint giggling behind you.
On the other side, illuminated by Cassie's torch, is an old style bath. Several tubs, a stone floor and buckets for carrying water.
In the back, a large tub is integrated into the floor, with a fireplace under it, and a hole on the bottom for draining the water.
You're not dumb.
Careful not to light the house on fire with it.
>>514976
>>514977
As you head through the crack, you hear faint giggling behind you.
On the other side, illuminated by Cassie's torch, is an old style bath. Several tubs, a stone floor and buckets for carrying water.
In the back, a large tub is integrated into the floor, with a fireplace under it, and a hole on the bottom for draining the water.
>>515018
From the darkness, eyes stare back at you.
Dead eyes, accusing you for letting them suffer.
Unblinking and unflinching, they stare deep into your very soul. You can almost hear their tiny voices crying out for you. Cursing your name for allowing this to happen. And cursing it again for coming here to disturb their rest.
The light of the torch and the setting sun flicker against the glazed orbs, making them ignite with the cold fury of those so cruelly betrayed.
Roll to not panic.
>>515021
As you move up, you see another faint image of something. It only appears for a second as you turn to look, like a flash of light catching an ethereal figure trying to evade your sight. Before you can think further, you realize something has grasped your hoof. Something cold and harsh with a jealous grip like a desperate filly trying to stop the one adult it can confide in from leaving its side.
Roll to not panic.
From the darkness, eyes stare back at you.
Dead eyes, accusing you for letting them suffer.
Unblinking and unflinching, they stare deep into your very soul. You can almost hear their tiny voices crying out for you. Cursing your name for allowing this to happen. And cursing it again for coming here to disturb their rest.
The light of the torch and the setting sun flicker against the glazed orbs, making them ignite with the cold fury of those so cruelly betrayed.
Roll to not panic.
>>515021
As you move up, you see another faint image of something. It only appears for a second as you turn to look, like a flash of light catching an ethereal figure trying to evade your sight. Before you can think further, you realize something has grasped your hoof. Something cold and harsh with a jealous grip like a desperate filly trying to stop the one adult it can confide in from leaving its side.
Roll to not panic.
>>515030
Oh wait
Your hoof just went through some rotten planks that clamped down on it.
That's not the death grip of a ghost filly at all!
>>515032
What has been seen cannot be unseen.
They know you now
They have seen your soul
There are still a few doors left on this floor, and the whole second floor and basement unsearched.
Oh wait
Your hoof just went through some rotten planks that clamped down on it.
That's not the death grip of a ghost filly at all!
>>515032
What has been seen cannot be unseen.
They know you now
They have seen your soul
There are still a few doors left on this floor, and the whole second floor and basement unsearched.
>>515039
This room looks dark. It could be a bedroom, but there are no apparent windows. Or if one exists, it is boarded shut.
>>515042
>>515046
Dozens of dead unblinking eyes stare back at you from the darkness, faintly illuminated by the rays of the setting sun, giving them a hellish red glow. They meet your gaze without flinching, as if they knew you did not care how they suffered. And they hate you for it.
>>515044
You open a door and look inside. It's a half-collapsed room. Perhaps once a bedroom or nursery. A cradle slowly rocks in the middle of the floor. Beams of light from the broken ceiling illuminate the room, casting stark stripes of red and black across it like some infernal prison.
You feel a cold touch on your shoulder.
This room looks dark. It could be a bedroom, but there are no apparent windows. Or if one exists, it is boarded shut.
>>515042
>>515046
Dozens of dead unblinking eyes stare back at you from the darkness, faintly illuminated by the rays of the setting sun, giving them a hellish red glow. They meet your gaze without flinching, as if they knew you did not care how they suffered. And they hate you for it.
>>515044
You open a door and look inside. It's a half-collapsed room. Perhaps once a bedroom or nursery. A cradle slowly rocks in the middle of the floor. Beams of light from the broken ceiling illuminate the room, casting stark stripes of red and black across it like some infernal prison.
You feel a cold touch on your shoulder.
>>515050
Why would you panic? It's just a room full of dolls.
>>515051
Nope. And even the crib is empty. The huge holes in the ceiling and wall are making a draft, which makes it rock. That draft also touched your shoulder.
It might be possible to break through the mess here to get outside. Possibly even move along rooftops.
Why would you panic? It's just a room full of dolls.
>>515051
Nope. And even the crib is empty. The huge holes in the ceiling and wall are making a draft, which makes it rock. That draft also touched your shoulder.
It might be possible to break through the mess here to get outside. Possibly even move along rooftops.
>>515056
You smash a few of the old boards and kick open a fairly big hole. You can now exit the building.
>>515053
Slightly more worryingly, those dolls had been nailed to the walls and furniture with wooden stakes.
>>515057
Yes, one.
Curiously, it's near the floor. Perhaps this room was built over the remains of some other house, and what's floor level now was probably half way up the room originally.
>>515059
Looking around, moving his ears sharply, as if trying to pinpoint a sound source
You smash a few of the old boards and kick open a fairly big hole. You can now exit the building.
>>515053
Slightly more worryingly, those dolls had been nailed to the walls and furniture with wooden stakes.
>>515057
Yes, one.
Curiously, it's near the floor. Perhaps this room was built over the remains of some other house, and what's floor level now was probably half way up the room originally.
>>515059
Looking around, moving his ears sharply, as if trying to pinpoint a sound source
>>515061
Yep.
All of the dolls have been staked to walls and furniture.
Except one.
That one is holding a hammer. You didn't see it before because unlike the other dolls, it has no eyes.
>>515065
You rip a board off
Unfortunately, there are also bars on this window.
>>515066
>>515068
Cloudcover snaps out of it and walks up
"Ah. A way out. Good. This place creeps me out."
Yep.
All of the dolls have been staked to walls and furniture.
Except one.
That one is holding a hammer. You didn't see it before because unlike the other dolls, it has no eyes.
>>515065
You rip a board off
Unfortunately, there are also bars on this window.
>>515066
>>515068
Cloudcover snaps out of it and walks up
"Ah. A way out. Good. This place creeps me out."
>>515071
It falls over.
It leaves a tiny blood stain on the floor as its head hits the floorboards.
You can feel the eyes in the room staring at you again. And that seems unlikely because you're in the middle of the room, and last time they were staring at the door.
>>515074
"Old houses do not giggle."
>>515072
Coral made a big hole in the second floor wall
It falls over.
It leaves a tiny blood stain on the floor as its head hits the floorboards.
You can feel the eyes in the room staring at you again. And that seems unlikely because you're in the middle of the room, and last time they were staring at the door.
>>515074
"Old houses do not giggle."
>>515072
Coral made a big hole in the second floor wall
>>515080
As you leave the room, you hear a single muffled sob right as you close the door.
You then head outside with the others
>>515081
>>515082
>>515085
You move out onto the collapsed roof and look around. The sun is low on the horizon, and it seems fog is starting to roll in from the lake.
From here you can easily leap onto the next building over, as it's leaning towards you.
Alternatively, you can try to navigate the collapsed part to reach the fallen building rubble and the blocked off road
As you leave the room, you hear a single muffled sob right as you close the door.
You then head outside with the others
>>515081
>>515082
>>515085
You move out onto the collapsed roof and look around. The sun is low on the horizon, and it seems fog is starting to roll in from the lake.
From here you can easily leap onto the next building over, as it's leaning towards you.
Alternatively, you can try to navigate the collapsed part to reach the fallen building rubble and the blocked off road
>>515105
As you look down, you see something look back up at you. It seems further away than it should, as if it were inside the floor, staring up at you through the harsh iron bars of a cage. Its eyes are dark and its figure distorted, but your subconscious tells you it is a pony.
A sharp chill runs up your spine, and as you look down again, there is nothing there any more.
As you look down, you see something look back up at you. It seems further away than it should, as if it were inside the floor, staring up at you through the harsh iron bars of a cage. Its eyes are dark and its figure distorted, but your subconscious tells you it is a pony.
A sharp chill runs up your spine, and as you look down again, there is nothing there any more.
>>515114
>>515115
>>515124
>>515126
You navigate the roof until you reach the other side. The balcony looks solid enough, and as you hop down, it holds. However, due to the wonky leaning construction, jumping down from it seems like a bad idea. A rope might help you get down, but there is none up here. Perhaps if you enter the house, you'll have better luck. At least you can probably avoid going to the ground floor.
A few loose boards are jammed against the door here. Had you tried coming from inside the house, the door would have been stuck.
>>515116
You hop down the skylight and end up in a very dusty room. A slight draft can be felt here, and it makes all the dust tossed up by your landing swirl around in the air. The rays of the setting sun catch it and give the whole room a rad haze.
>>515115
>>515124
>>515126
You navigate the roof until you reach the other side. The balcony looks solid enough, and as you hop down, it holds. However, due to the wonky leaning construction, jumping down from it seems like a bad idea. A rope might help you get down, but there is none up here. Perhaps if you enter the house, you'll have better luck. At least you can probably avoid going to the ground floor.
A few loose boards are jammed against the door here. Had you tried coming from inside the house, the door would have been stuck.
>>515116
You hop down the skylight and end up in a very dusty room. A slight draft can be felt here, and it makes all the dust tossed up by your landing swirl around in the air. The rays of the setting sun catch it and give the whole room a rad haze.
>>515133
You look around, but all you can see is more clouds of red, as if you were standing in some hellscape of bloody clouds.
You wade through the haze, barely able to make out anything other than vague silhouettes of boxes and furniture, your paws incapable of giving you any real aid, and your nose filling with dust, cutting you off from your sense of smell.
Then you come face to face with two ponies, just standing there in the haze, unmoving.
>>515129
>>515131
You manage to dislodge the boards, but not without some painful splinters to Amber.
You look around, but all you can see is more clouds of red, as if you were standing in some hellscape of bloody clouds.
You wade through the haze, barely able to make out anything other than vague silhouettes of boxes and furniture, your paws incapable of giving you any real aid, and your nose filling with dust, cutting you off from your sense of smell.
Then you come face to face with two ponies, just standing there in the haze, unmoving.
>>515129
>>515131
You manage to dislodge the boards, but not without some painful splinters to Amber.
>>515137
You pull on the splinter. It comes loose. And it just keeps coming. The bleeding won't stop. The splinter is still in. You must have pulled two feet of it out already. And there is no end to it. Every inch is a rasping agony against every nerve in your body like the damned thing is breaking into thousands of jagged knives that seek only to torment you. The pain is endless. The pain is endless. The pain is endless. The pain is ending. The pain is endless. The pain is endless.
…oh wait no, that was just your imagination you big sissy. It was a big splinter though. Next time try yanking it out in one pull and not slowly nudging it out.
>>515139
They do not move. They just stand there. Facing you. Judging you. You can see a glint as the light touches them. Perhaps a knife. Perhaps just a shard of glass.
They say nothing. They do not move a muscle.
You pull on the splinter. It comes loose. And it just keeps coming. The bleeding won't stop. The splinter is still in. You must have pulled two feet of it out already. And there is no end to it. Every inch is a rasping agony against every nerve in your body like the damned thing is breaking into thousands of jagged knives that seek only to torment you. The pain is endless. The pain is endless. The pain is endless. The pain is ending. The pain is endless. The pain is endless.
…oh wait no, that was just your imagination you big sissy. It was a big splinter though. Next time try yanking it out in one pull and not slowly nudging it out.
>>515139
They do not move. They just stand there. Facing you. Judging you. You can see a glint as the light touches them. Perhaps a knife. Perhaps just a shard of glass.
They say nothing. They do not move a muscle.
>>515146
Seems like a fairly long room. It's possible the entire second floor is just one big room, possibly separated with a few walls.
By the looks of things, this place was used like a storage attic. Old furniture, unlabeled boxes, racks of dresses…
>>515148
Your constant snorting keeps the dust flying. You look around the room until you spot what seems to be a wall. Judging the distance as well as you can, you think it should lead to the balcony. Or at least close to it.
As you turn to look at it, you hear a wet thump from your side.
Seems like a fairly long room. It's possible the entire second floor is just one big room, possibly separated with a few walls.
By the looks of things, this place was used like a storage attic. Old furniture, unlabeled boxes, racks of dresses…
>>515148
Your constant snorting keeps the dust flying. You look around the room until you spot what seems to be a wall. Judging the distance as well as you can, you think it should lead to the balcony. Or at least close to it.
As you turn to look at it, you hear a wet thump from your side.
>>515159
One of the ponies no longer has a head.
The other one has not moved.
Looking in that direction, you realize there are several more in the distance, barely even visible behind the dust and in this dim light.
>>515156
>>515154
The room full of junk is really quite cluttered. There doesn't seem to be a way down in here, or if there is, it's probably buried under tons and tons of crap.
However, there is a door on the far end.
One of the ponies no longer has a head.
The other one has not moved.
Looking in that direction, you realize there are several more in the distance, barely even visible behind the dust and in this dim light.
>>515156
>>515154
The room full of junk is really quite cluttered. There doesn't seem to be a way down in here, or if there is, it's probably buried under tons and tons of crap.
However, there is a door on the far end.
>>515163
You open the door, and a draft meets your face.
Beyond the door lies a sense-numbing hellscape of crimson red. It is as if you gazed into a sea of clouds drenched in blood, lit by an unholy sun blazing down from a sky darkened by thousands of thorny vines. You see a tall figure before you, reaching for a weapon. It is headed for a pony a short way further. A pony frozen in place next to another, headless pony.
And further in the far reaches of this red madness given form by the brush of an artist whose mind has long since forsaken this world stands a circle of ponies, each unmoving, all staring at some focal point obscured by the swirling clouds of red terror that are pouring out at you.
>>515164
A rush of air passes you as you face the ponies, as if their angry spirits were trying to claw at you. Their faceless heads betray no emotion, but you can swear there is a large bloodstain forming under the fallen head, and a jagged glass shard in the other one's hoof.
You open the door, and a draft meets your face.
Beyond the door lies a sense-numbing hellscape of crimson red. It is as if you gazed into a sea of clouds drenched in blood, lit by an unholy sun blazing down from a sky darkened by thousands of thorny vines. You see a tall figure before you, reaching for a weapon. It is headed for a pony a short way further. A pony frozen in place next to another, headless pony.
And further in the far reaches of this red madness given form by the brush of an artist whose mind has long since forsaken this world stands a circle of ponies, each unmoving, all staring at some focal point obscured by the swirling clouds of red terror that are pouring out at you.
>>515164
A rush of air passes you as you face the ponies, as if their angry spirits were trying to claw at you. Their faceless heads betray no emotion, but you can swear there is a large bloodstain forming under the fallen head, and a jagged glass shard in the other one's hoof.
>>515177
>>515179
This is just an old ordinary mirror. Stained and slightly cracked.
As the dust starts to settle, you finally get a better look at the room you are in. It must have been a dressmaker's workshop at some point that later became a storage room. You can see racks of dresses, many rolls of cloth and dozens of mannequins. Arranged in a circle. All staring up at the ceiling, where one more hangs limply on a noose.
>>515179
This is just an old ordinary mirror. Stained and slightly cracked.
As the dust starts to settle, you finally get a better look at the room you are in. It must have been a dressmaker's workshop at some point that later became a storage room. You can see racks of dresses, many rolls of cloth and dozens of mannequins. Arranged in a circle. All staring up at the ceiling, where one more hangs limply on a noose.
>>515193
>>515194
>>515195
You take the rope and head back to the balcony as the sun sets lower.
You tie the rope to the side of the balcony and toss it down, then use it to climb back to street level. The way forward to the town hall is now clear.
Cloudcover takes one final uneasy look back at the house.
>>515194
>>515195
You take the rope and head back to the balcony as the sun sets lower.
You tie the rope to the side of the balcony and toss it down, then use it to climb back to street level. The way forward to the town hall is now clear.
Cloudcover takes one final uneasy look back at the house.