/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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Paladinquest - Thread 3 DM 326528

Time for your physicals, and then for your academic starting level exams.

Get your training armour on, grab your weapons and head to the practice fields.

Sidus [Rogue] 326535

>>326528
GRAB ERRYTHING

And then go there.

Nock [Tracker] 326537

"Well, it looks like Star will get her chance. We have physicals now, right? Sidus will probably be there."

Grab it all and head out.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326538

>>326528
Head to the smith, pick up my sword, and then report to the fields.
I'll thank the smith once I've gotten my sword.

Papaver Field [Mage] 326541

Ah yes, my weapon.
Time to leave the hammer behind and take the greatsword.
Put the armour on and off I go.
>>326537
Wince.
"Don't remind me, please…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326542

>>326528
>>326537
"Oh no… physicals already?"
I let out a weak sigh and put on my new gear, following Nock and Vera

DM 326550

>>326538
>>326535
"Never a problem lads. Just come and ask me if there is anything you need built."
>>326542
>>326537
>>326541
The candidates have amassed.
The Battlemaster is heading the physicals.
"Good day everypony. Some of you have been running busy with tasks this morning, others have gotten a chance to sleep in. Whatever the case, I trust you are all on equal grounds for this.
The point of this exam is to gauge your starting levels in strength, speed, endurance, stamina, pain tolerance, weapon skill and health.
I will be overseeing each process, and my assistants will help me.
For the health check, I've arranged for the academy doctor to measure you up.
ANY QUESTIONS?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326552

>>326550
Just keep my mouth shut and my head hung low

Papaver Field [Mage] 326553

>>326550
No questions here.
Stand straight and still, face tall and immovable.

Sidus [Rogue] 326554

>>326550
How are the replicas?

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326555

>>326550
I'll raise a hoof.
"How are we to be separated? Or are we being separated at all?"

Nock [Tracker] 326557

>>326553
I emulate her styles.

DM 326560

>>326552
"YOU! NO SLOUCHING!"
>>326554
Weight and balancing is very similar to the real ones, but these things are safe to use and wouldn't even cut a loaf of bread let alone someone's flesh.
>>326555
"Separated? The paladins stand as one. You will each take a turn on each test point, or in some cases, do the test in small groups. Further questions?"

Sidus [Rogue] 326564

>>326560
Keep playing around with my replicas as the boringness goes on

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326566

>>326560
I perk up, keeping my eyes shut tight

Papaver Field [Mage] 326568

>>326560
Bite my lip as the Battlemaster reprimends Star, but otherwise stand still.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326569

>>326560
I'll just stand at attention.

Nock [Tracker] 326574

Keep standing at full attention. No distractions! Strength! Poise!

DM 326580

>>326564
"QUIT FIDGETING, SHRIMP."
>>326566
"Good."

>>326568
>>326569
>>326574
"Right. Who's first then?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326583

>>326580
Looking towards the others, I suppose I'll volunteer.

Sidus [Rogue] 326584

>>326580
"Hah! I'm first in everything!"

Nock [Tracker] 326586

>>326580
"I volunteer, sir!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 326587

>>326580
Take a step forward too, oblivious of the other three speaking.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326589

>>326580
I back off slightly

DM 326590

>>326583
"You first"
>>326584
"Then you"
>>326586
"You"
>>326587
"And you"
>>326589
"CHANGE OF PLANS. YOU GET TO GO FIRST.
Step on up miss. What's your name?"

Sidus [Rogue] 326591

>>326590
"Hey! Leave her be! That would mean I'm not the first! I can't allow that!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 326593

>>326590
She just had to move, uh?
Look in apprehension at Star.
>>326591
"Shh!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326595

>>326591
I'll just shake my head and watch him get chewed out. He's got to learn eventually.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326599

>>326590
"M-me?"
I gulp, looking at the others pleadingly before stepping forward with a weak sigh
"Star Hopper… s-sir."

DM 326600

>>326591
"Well we can't have that now can we? Any more smart talk from you about your marefriend and how I treat her?"

Nock [Tracker] 326601

>>326590
Suppress a wince as a shot of sympathy goes through me. Roll to appear unfazed. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Sidus [Rogue] 326604

>>326600
I chuckle.
"I know most mares can't resist me, but she's not my marefriend! It's not about her, it's about me!"

DM 326614

>>326601
"HEY! SHAKYLEGS! WHAT DID I JUST SAY ABOUT FIDGETING?"
>>326604
"GET TO THE BACK OF THE LINE AND SHUT YOUR UGLY FACE!"
>>326599
"ALRIGHT EVERYPONY, MISS STAR HOPPER HERE HAS KINDLY AGREED TO SET THE BAR FOR THE STRENGTH TEST.
Here you go, miss."
He hives you a heavy mallet.
"Hit that target there as hard as possible, and we'll see how many bells you manage to ring."

Papaver Field [Mage] 326616

>>326614
This is not going to be good…

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326619

>>326614
I look at him, then at the mallet
"… uh… okay…"
I gulp and take the mallet with my telekinesis, then walk over to the target and hit it with all my magical might '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Sidus [Rogue] 326620

>>326614
Step back in line.
"The only ugly here is the yelling one…"

DM 326626

>>326620
"WHAT WAS THAT?"
>>326619
He nods approvingly
"Six bells. Not bad. Not bad at all. That's a good strike you got there.
NEXT!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326630

>>326626
I'll move forward, If I'm not beaten to it.

Sidus [Rogue] 326633

>>326626
"Why are you yelling? Are you afraid of something?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326637

>>326626
I quickly scurry away back into the crowd, relieved I didn't mess up

Papaver Field [Mage] 326641

>>326626
Stand right behind Nock.
>>326637
Give her a slight smile and an approving non-sexual wink.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

DM 326647

>>326633
"Why are you talking back when you have absolutely no place to do so? NOW GET TO THE BACK OF THE LINE AND SHUT UP."
>>326630
>>326637
>>326641
>>326633
The rest of you, roll to see how well it goes.
+1 to the roll if being STRONK is your strong suit

Papaver Field [Mage] 326653

>>326647
My strong suit is being honorable.
So, no die.
'1d10'
MIGHT THE FORCE OF MY HOUSE FALL UPON MY FOES!

Roll #1 1 = 1

Sidus [Rogue] 326664

>>326647
Of course I am great and stronk!
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326665

>>326647
Well, here we go…
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

DM 326674

>>326664
"Four bells, shrimp. That's a little underwhelming."
>>326665
"Four bells. Not good. You need to lift some more, big guy. Practice that swing."
>>326653
You put a little too much effort into the swing and…
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

DM 326677

>>326674
…fall over in a mud puddle, dropping the mallet
"IS THIS SOME KIND OF JOKE TO YOU, CADET!? GET UP!"

326679

>>326647
Hopefully I can make my dynasty proud.

Roll #0 10 + 1 = 11

Papaver Field [Mage] 326680

>>326677
"I… I'm sorry sir. Allow me to try once more."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326681

>>326674
I'll return, a bit dejected, back to the group. I'll congratulate Star on getting six bells.

DM 326683

>>326679
You send the weight flying out of the test machine.
The battlemaster's mouth falls oven
"…full points."

Sidus [Rogue] 326684

>>326674
"I was just holding back! Force is meaningless without skill anyway."

Walk back in line with a grin

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326687

>>326681
"Oh… I-I just practiced my telekinesis a lot. It's really handy when treating wounds and stuff…"

>>326679
>>326683
I look at her with wide eyes
"… wow."

Papaver Field [Mage] 326689

>>326679
Well what do you know, that's incredible.
Just like the Battlemaster, stand mouth agape looking at her.

Nock [Tracker] 326690

>>326683
"Thank you, sir!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326692

>>326679
I'll just be completely flabbergasted.
"Where does she put the muscle for that?"

DM 326693

>>326680
"Fine. And NO MORE HORSEPLAY."

326696

>>326693
Nod, grab the hammer and give it a vigorous swing!
It's a hammer damnit! I used these things since I was a kid!

Roll #0 10 + 1 = 11

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326698

>>326696
I'll give Papaver a short round of applause.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326703

>>326696
I gawk at her
"… she's just as strong as Nock… wow…"

Nock [Tracker] 326705

>>326696
Try to hide my grin. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326708

>>326703
"And the three of you are all stronger than me. I have to admit, I'm really disappointed in myself…"

Nock [Tracker] 326709

>>326705
I'll remain stoic and determined! We can celebrate privately later.

Sidus [Rogue] 326710

>>326696
"Not bad… not bad at all!"

DM 326712

>>326696
"…well I'll be."

"Alright. Anyone want to try again or shall we move on?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326715

>>326712
I think for a second, and then ask.
"We're allowed to try again?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326716

>>326708
"It's just my magic, I've always been good with it…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 326718

>>326712
"Whew…" Lie the hammer down and move over to Nock and Star, heart pounding in my chest, giving them a wide smile.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326719

>>326716
"Might still need your help getting whipped into shape at this rate, though."

Sidus [Rogue] 326720

>>326712
"Let's just get a move on."

DM 326721

>>326715
"I want accurate results, not lucky hits. if you feel you can improve, step up and do so. This is not about being strongest. This is about how I will treat you in the coming years."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326722

>>326721
I'll nod.
"Then I'd like to try again, sir."
I'll move up and take another swing. '1d10+1'

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3

Nock [Tracker] 326723

>>326718
Give a proud, but subtle nod.

Papaver Field [Mage] 326725

>>326723
Move in close unable to resist, and whisper to her.
"You were great!"

DM 326726

>>326722
"Three?
You hit like a filly."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326727

>>326722
Then I'll just stare at the hammer.
"I'm not this weak. I can't be."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326729

>>326726
I'll try again. '1d10+1'

Roll #1 5 + 1 = 6

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326731

>>326719
"M-maybe you just have a off-day? D-did you eat enough this morning?"

>>326718
I give her a small smile

Nock [Tracker] 326733

>>326725
"You too! I knew you had it in you!"

DM 326738

>>326725
"GET IN LINE. SAVE THE FLIRTING FOR LATER."
>>326727
"I don't usually give thi-"
>>326729
"DID I GIVE YOU PERMISSION FOR THAT?
Six. GET BACK IN LINE."

"ALRIGHT. Time for the Speed test then.
You can see a track around the training field. Form a row and on my mark, run the entire track, then back to me. I will time you.

And… GO!"
+1 if you are notably fast

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326742

>>326738
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

326743

>>326738
"NOSIR! FORGIVE ME SIR!"
Go back in line and don't think about the spaghetti I've just spilt.

FAST TEST! GOTTA GO BLUE!

Roll #0 3 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 326744

>>326738
Gotta go fast!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 6 + 1 = 7

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326745

>>326738
Oh boy, physical stuff…

Start running '1d10+-1'

Roll #1 4 - 1 = 3

Nock [Tracker] 326747

>>326738
Run, run, run away from the angry instructor.

Make my family proud! '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

DM 326765

>>326747
"Impressive! I've seen few better times!"
>>326742
"Very good!"
>>326744
"Not bad!"
>>326743
>>326745
"Well thanks for finally joining us, ladies. Work on those legs. You'll need them."

"Ok, small breather so you'll be ready for the endurance round. After that you still have Weapons and Pain Tolerance left.
Five minutes."

Sidus [Rogue] 326768

>>326765
Fiddle around with my replicas again.
Make sure they feel all right.
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

326769

>>326765
"Y-ye-yes sir…"
Try to catch my breath and go meet with Nock and Jona.
"You two were so fast…"

Roll #0 9 = 9

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326771

>>326765
I'll join Star and company for the moment, and congratulate Nock on her time.

Nock [Tracker] 326773

>>326769
Give her a big hug. "Who cares?! You were great on the first test! I wanted to shout out immediately! It took all of my self control to stay in line!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326774

>>326765
I cough and collapse on the floor
"Eurgh…"

DM 326775

>>326768
The dull wooden edges seem to mock you with how non-lethal they are.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326778

>>326769
"Well, these legs are good for something, at least."
>>326774
"You alright, Star?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326782

>>326778
I nod, catching my breath
"J-j-just not… used to… running… like that."

Papaver Field [Mage] 326786

>>326773
"Ohw…" Thanks Celestia I'm quick at regaining my breath, otherwise I'd be dying right now.
"You were so great there too~"
Hug back.
>>326782
"Yeah that was… Intense…"

DM 326787

"ARE YOU READY BY NOW?"

Nock [Tracker] 326788

>>326787
Break out of the hug, sooner than I'd like, but orders are orders.

"YESSIR!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326789

>>326782
I'll give her a small grin and offer a hoof.
"You'll get used to it. Besides, I think you did fine. You made it to the end, didn't you?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 326793

>>326787
Shape up after the hug.
"YESSIR!"

Sidus [Rogue] 326794

>>326787
"Finally! I was starting to get bored!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326797

>>326787
I whimper slightly

>>326789
Take his hoof and get up, still panting heavily
"I guess so…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326800

>>326797
"A start's a start, Star."
>>326787
"Yessir."

DM 326803

>>326797
>>326794
>>326793
>>326788
"OKAY! Endurance round! This should be easy. Same as last time, only now I count laps, not speed. You have ten minutes, run as many as you can.

Ready? GO!"

326805

>>326803
Endurance!
What can I ever possibly need endurance for?
Let's roll!

Roll #0 6 = 6

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326806

>>326803
"W-what? Oh no…"
Start running again '1d10+-2' because tired already

Roll #1 2 - 2 = 0

Nock [Tracker] 326808

>>326803
What's an antimage without a little endurance? Keep it up! '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326809

>>326803
I should do alright… '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Sidus [Rogue] 326812

>>326803
'1d10'

Let's get this over with

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 326821

>>326812
"Seems at you are good for more than just running your mouth. Well done."
>>326809
"Good pace. Keep that up."
>>326805
"Acceptable."
>>326808
he sighs
"And here I was actually having high hopes for you."
>>326806
You collapse on the starting line and whimper
Roll for further embarrassing mishaps.

326824

>>326821
Come on Star… Just endure for now…

Roll #0 3 - 2 = 1

Papaver Field [Mage] 326825

>>326821
Run over to Star.
"You okay!?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326827

>>326821
I'll check on Star as well.

Sidus [Rogue] 326828

>>326821
I flash a grin.
"Of course I wasn't just all talk."

Nock [Tracker] 326829

>>326821
"I'm sorry, sir. There is no excuse for that performance, sir. I will do better, sir."

>>326824
>>326825
Join them. "Star?"

DM 326835

>>326824
That's… really kinda sad.
Collapsing like that in front of everyone, panting and crying and making a mess of yourself in general.
"CADET! GET THE HELL UP!
GO BACK TO YOUR DORM, CHANGE INTO SOMETHING CLEAN AND GET BACK OUT HERE! ON THE DOUBLE! MOVE!"

"THE REST OF YOU can go take a sip of water. Weapon skill is up next, and it will take a little longer."

Sidus [Rogue] 326838

>>326835
Let's find some water, and go to Jona.
"What was that all about?"

326839

>>326825
>>326827
>>326829
"I-I'm sorry I-"

>>326835
I shriek and try to get moving back to the dorm

Roll #0 8 = 8

Nock [Tracker] 326842

>>326835
"Sir, if everyone else will be taking a water break anyway… Would you allow me the privilege of running additional laps to make up for my disappointing performance, sir? There is no excuse for my failure, but I am certain I can do better for you, sir."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326844

>>326838
"The endurance test turned out to be a bit difficult. She'll get better, I'm sure of it."

DM 326846

>>326842
"Very well. Go ahead."

Sidus [Rogue] 326847

>>326844
"Hmm. Not everypony can be as good at endurance as my greatness… but that's why we're here, to get better, aren't we?"

326848

>>326846
Gotta keep it up.

Roll #0 2 = 2

Nock [Tracker] 326849

>>326848
Hang my head in shame.

"I am so sorry for wasting your time, sir."

326851

>>326839
Get new clothing on and try to keep it together

I didn't… do that again did I?

Roll #0 4 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326852

>>326847
"I suppose. Say, where's your mare friend, miss Heart? Haven't seen her around."

Sidus [Rogue] 326856

>>326852
I look around.
Is she around?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

DM 326857

>>326849
"Just don't fail in the last two."
>>326851
You might want to get that checked in the health inspection.
>>326856
Why yes she is. Among the other candidates.

326861

>>326846
"I'd like to try the course too, sir!"

Speed test?
Pc reeboted, sorry.

Roll #0 1 = 1

Nock [Tracker] 326862

>>326857
Miserably go get a drink of water. How embarrassing! What kind of Paladin can't keep up endurance? This isn't just a matter of the speed test slowing me down. Something must be wrong with me.

326864

>>326857
"Oh no…"
I cover my face in my hooves and refresh myself, then sneak back to the rest of the class and hope the Battlemaster doesn't yell at me again

Roll #0 10 = 10

Sidus [Rogue] 326866

>>326857
Smile and wave at her before turning back to Jona.

>>326852
"She's around, just doing her tasks as well. This is not recess, now is it?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326874

>>326866
"Well, about as much of one as we're going to get before the weapons test…"

DM 326879

>>326861
Endurance.
And you fall on your nose, making it bleed.
"What the FUCK was that, cadet!?"
>>326864
He just silently nods as you return to the field.

"IF WE ARE READY, IT IS TIME FOR COMBAT PRACTICE. ONE AT A TIME, AGAINST MY ASSISTANT SURE STRIKE."
Sure Strike, a young earth pony with a mace and shield, bows to you
"To ensure a solid test, you will fight until you land three hits on him one on one.
Who is first?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326881

>>326879
I'll volunteer. I've got to see if I'm as bad a fighter as I think I am…

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326882

>>326879
This time, just stand still and pray to Luna

Nock [Tracker] 326883

>>326879
"I volunteer as well, sir!"

I pant, exhausted.

Papaver Field [Mage] 326885

>>326879
"Sir! A terrible mistake on my part, sir!"
Leave and go drink.
Not gonna be first at combat practice, for sure.
>>326882
"Oh, you are back!"
Give her a kind smile.
>>326862
"Hey Noc-"
>>326883
Too late!

Star Hopper [Cleric] 326888

>>326885
I keep staring in front of me, afraid to move and lower lip trembling slightly

Sidus [Rogue] 326889

>>326879
"Finally! I've been waiting for this!"

DM 326890

>>326881
"Alright, you first."
Sure Strike nods
"No need to go easy on me. I can take a hit."
He attempts to take a defensive pose and punish your attack

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326894

>>326890
Okay, here we go…
Sword and shield at the ready, I'll make the first attack. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

DM 326896

>>326894
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

DM 326898

>>326894
>>326896
"Had you not had the shield, you could have easily maneuvered around mine. Single weapon fencing is often overlooked. It should not.
ON GUARD!"
he tries to smack you with his mace
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326899

>>326898
I'll try to block, and return the hit.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

DM 326902

>>326899
Your guard is broken and you take a face full of training mace
"Your guard is weak. Try attacking instead."

DM 326903

>>326902
He puts up a guard
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326905

>>326902
Shaking my head to clear the stars, I'll try and press the attack.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 326911

>>326905
>>326903
"Good! Very good. Don't hesitate. Do you have any specialties?"
he takes an idle swing to go with the smalltalk
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326916

>>326911
"I'm a fair hand at knocking things over."
'1d10+2' Suppress.

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

Sidus [Rogue] 326922

I keep watching my roommate.
"Come on, show him what your made of!"
Let out a chuckle.
"Or at least put up a better fight than against me!"

DM 326930

>>326916
You wrestle him down and push his dead in the dirt
"Urgh! Well done! Good form!
Gah…
Battlemaster, I think this one passes.
Three one."
"Right. Good job. NEXT!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326932

>>326930
I'll ask if he needs a hoof back up, and if not, return to the others.

DM 326945

>>326932
"I'm good, thanks. Well fought."

Sidus [Rogue] 326946

>>326930
Stand in front of him!
"Ready to face my greatness?"

DM 326949

>>326946
"Always. So, what are you good with?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 326970

>>326949
"What am I not good with?"

Dual attack with my kamas, from the two sides.
'2d10'

Roll #1 8, 8 = 16

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 326973

>>326946
"Careful, Sidus! A big head makes a huge target!"

DM 326979

>>326970
"Hm? AH! Good one. Very nice. Dual weapons are quite rare, but not to be underestimated.
Lets see your guard then…"
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Sidus [Rogue] 326991

>>326979
Dodge to the side and knock him on the head with one of the kamas from a distance, then pull back the weapon with the chain.
Switch to ranged.
'1d10+1'
I'm testing the CM, is this how it should work?

Roll #1 10 + 1 = 11

DM 327002

>>326991
"GAH! A surprise! My my."
he rubs his chin
"But that was no guard. That was a dodge. A move you cannot rely on forever. Try blocking."
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Sidus [Rogue] 327006

>>327002
Change back to kamas, block with one, sneak in an uppercut with the other.
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 6 + 1 = 7

DM 327010

>>327006
Your mark works once per weapon type, switching back and forth does not give the bonus.
"…good show.
Full points to this one sir!"
The battlemaster claps a little
"Good show, Sidus. I'm impressed.
NEXT!"

327011

>>327010
Stand in front of Sure Strike.
"I'm ready!"
Take up a defensive stance.

Roll #0 10 = 10

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327015

>>327011
"Good luck, Vera!"

DM 327019

>>327011
"A strong defense can often allow you to force an easy opening in the enemy's stance."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 327020

>>327010
Get back in line.
"Of course you are impressed. It was me, after all."

I did not apply when starting with kamas. I know it's once per combat only.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327021

>>327011
I gulp and watch her apprehensively

DM 327026

>>327011
>>327019
"…as demonstrated there.
And as I intend to demonstrate it again. Come at me."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

327032

>>327026
"Yes!"
Balance and power, strike down with the greatsword!

Roll #0 4 = 4

DM 327035

>>327032
You break his guard and send him reeling
"Whoa! Ahem. Yes. Well. TAKE THIS!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

327041

>>327035
Try to sidestep and riposte!

Roll #0 7 = 7

DM 327050

>>327041
"Too slow. A successful sidestep needs to be sharpish and quick! Try me."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

327051

>>327050
"It's the sword! I'm used to hammers!"
Attack him again! I don't fear his riposte!

Roll #0 3 = 3

DM 327057

>>327050
>>327051
He manages his dodge bit not his counter
"At least you are brave for trying new things."
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327058

While this is going on, I'll have a little chat with Star.
"So, how are you holding up?"

327063

>>327057
"My family will have my head!"
Smirk and keep pressing on!

Roll #0 8 = 8

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327064

>>327058
"I… well… you saw what happened earlier…"
I look away, ashamed

Sidus [Rogue] 327069

>>327064
"Pfff, and you are going to mope about it? You think that will solve it? Let me help, no! Stop crying about what happened in the past and instead concentrate to be better in the future!"

DM 327072

>>327057
>>327063
"Guh…
…good job.
One miss."
"Mhm. Pass.
NEXT!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327073

>>327064
"Hey, it's fine. Things happen."
I'll decide against tousling her mane to make her feel better. Don't think she's quite used to casual contact from colts…
"But it can only get better. And don't worry too much about the combat test. It stings a little, but it passes quickly, and Sure Strike is nice enough. He will talk to you during, though, so remember to focus."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327077

>>327072
Happily trot over to Nock and Star.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327079

>>327077
"Congrats, Vera. Good to see you're getting the hang of that sword."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327082

>>327069
"… I just want to practice m-magic in peace…"

>>327073
I cringe
"I-I've never fought in my life…"

Nock [Tracker] 327083

>>327082
>>327072
"Then I'll go next!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327089

>>327082
"I'm sure he'll be a bit gentler with you. Maybe. Almost positively."
>>327083
"Good luck!"

Sidus [Rogue] 327091

>>327082
I look around.
"You know this is Paladin and not mage school, right?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327093

>>327089
>>327091
I just sigh

DM 327096

>>327083
"Welcome. Lets begin right away. Come at me."
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Papaver Field [Mage] 327097

>>327079
"Next time I'm going to roll over that hot air baloon!"
Grin wide.
>>327083
"I'm rooting for you Nock!"
>>327091
"Buzz off, you."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327098

>>327093
…I'll try to give her a comforting pat on the back. '1d10'
"You'll be fine."

Roll #1 9 = 9

327112

>>327096
"That looks like a solid stance. I'll have to try something unorthodox. Use my distance to my advantage."

Trick shot.

Roll #0 10 + 3 = 13

Sidus [Rogue] 327113

>>327097
"Really? I did ace this combat too, didn't I?"
I grin at her.
"But I won't deny you surprised me at the strenght test. Now I know where the power of that cheap shot of yours came from."

DM 327119

>>327112
Your shot actually hits him very painfully in what was probably the only hole in his guard
"…ow…"
After a little whimpering he gets back up
"L-lets see your guard then"
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

327127

>>327119
My advantage is my distance, but that doesn't mean I don't know how to outmaneuver in close range.

I'll have to remember the basics of CQC.

Roll #0 6 + 1 = 7

DM 327136

>>327127
He hits the ground with a thump
"N-not bad. But lets see you take THIS!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

327142

>>327136
Just hold out for this last swing! Make my family proud!

Roll #0 8 + 1 = 9

DM 327146

>>327142
>>327136
And he is down.
"…flawless. A little too flawless…"
"Good job. LAST ONE, GET IN THERE!"

327147

>>327142
Try to remain stoic as I see her wonderful fighting ability.

Roll #0 7 = 7

Nock [Tracker] 327148

>>327146
"Yessir. It is a honor to train with you, sir."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327149

>>327147
Okay I can hold my teats.
>>327142
"You were great!"
But I'll still squee a bit.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327150

>>327146
I gulp and skittishly move up.
"Uh… h-hi."

DM 327153

>>327150
"Hey.
Lets start off slow. Try breaking my guard."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Nock [Tracker] 327158

>>327149
Give a subdued grin and a look that says, We'll celebrate later. For now, let's behave.

327159

>>327153
I tighten my grip around my sword and swing at him

Roll #0 7 = 7

Papaver Field [Mage] 327161

>>327158
Right.
Go back watching the whole thing.
>>327159
Grin wide as I see her score a hit.

DM 327162

>>327159
A good, solid hit
"Oh dear… I think I'm getting winded here.
Ok, try blocking this!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

327167

>>327162
Try to keep back his weapon with telekinesis

Roll #0 6 = 6

DM 327169

>>327167
You stop his mace and smack him in the face
"Ouch… ok. Well. So much for playing nice. EAT THIS!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

327175

>>327169
I shriek and try to dodge his strike!

Roll #0 2 = 2

DM 327177

>>327175
it smacks you square on the horn
"And take THIS!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

327180

>>327177
Try to leap away in panic

Roll #0 1 = 1

DM 327185

>>327180
He sweeps your legs from under you and slams the hammer down on your belly
"And ONE MORE"
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

327186

>>327185
Try to crawl away!

Roll #0 10 = 10

DM 327196

>>327186
You kick out in panic
When you open your eyes, the Battlemaster laughs a little
"Not really paladinlike, but then, I think he was getting too much into it. Pass with two misses."

"Ok everyone. One last test remains.
Before that, I'm giving you all a chance to prepare. Because the last test is my personal favourite. Pain Tolerance.
So get ready.
For reference, Sure Strike here-"
He nods at the whimpering mess of a pony
"-was one of the best at that."

Sidus [Rogue] 327199

>>327196
"Pff, pain, what's that?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327200

>>327196
Gulp down.
I'm a stonk earth pony! I should be able to pass, right?
Nock is alright too, I mean, she got lashed and all…
Oh Celestia… Star!

327201

>>327196
Oh no! That's just mean! Heal him!
"I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to… to… hurt you like that!"

Roll #0 3 = 3

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327202

Nock [Tracker] 327203

>>327200
>>327196
Give Papaver a look that says, Don't say I didn't warn you!

DM 327204

>>327201
>>327202
"That's ok… I've had for worse."
he gets up shakes it off and walks off to store the training gear
"Well fought, all of you."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327206

>>327203
Totally ignore that and, as she makes eye contact, nod distressed towards Star.

327210

>>327204
I watch him leave worriedly. How guilty do I feel for that?

Roll #0 6 = 6

Nock [Tracker] 327218

>>327206
A faint nod.

Nothing we can do about it now, after all. I think. Showing a sign of weakness might make him choose her first again.

Papaver Field [Mage] 327225

>>327218
Right. Calm down and get back into shape.

DM 327242

The Battlemaster returns
"ARE WE READY FOR THE FINAL TEST?"

Sidus [Rogue] 327243

>>327242
"Damn right I am!"

Nock [Tracker] 327245

>>327242
"Yessir."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327247

>>327242
"YESSIR!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327250

>>327242
I let out a weak sigh and nod

DM 327273

>>327243
>>327245
>>327247
>>327250
"Well this one is simple at least. One at a time, you come stand here, and I beat on you until you've had enough.
There are two important things we learn here. How much punishment you can take, and how well you know your limits.
If you collapse, I'm taking points off.
Who wants to be first?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327275

>>327273
"Me, sir!" Step forward.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327277

>>327273
Oh Goddesses
Put on my pokerface and pray to Luna for mercy '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

DM 327279

>>327275
"Very well."
He grabs a thin training sword. More like a stiff whip.
"What is your name, cadet?"
Roll to endure the first hit

Sidus [Rogue] 327281

>>327279
>>327275
Watch from the sidelines.

327285

>>327279
"Papaver Field, Sir!"
Endure it is!

Roll #0 10 = 10

Nock [Tracker] 327286

>>327285
Watch with my teeth gritted. I know what that feels like, even if she's taking it like a champ.

DM 327289

>>327285
The training sword makes a nasty noise across your back, but you take it with stride
"Why do you want to be a paladin?"
Keep going

327292

>>327289
"Because I want the glory of battle! The honor of fighting to defend those I love!"
Teeth grinned, keep enduring.

Roll #0 2 = 2

DM 327298

>>327292
You can barely avoid yelping. That blow across the flank hurt like hell.
"What do you seek to specialize in?"
And this is how it goes until you submit or go helpless.

327307

>>327298
AH! I CAN ENDURE THIS! JUST ONE MORE!
"THE ART OF COMBAT, SIR!"
If I shout maybe it'll hurt less.

Roll #0 6 = 6

DM 327316

>>327307
It does hurt less. Or maybe your are just going numb in the leg where he it you.
"Combat huh? Anything specific?"
Ready to give up? Just tell him.

327322

>>327316
I can go for one more, right? Right?
How do I know how much endurance left I have in me after that 10?
"The kind of combat that brings honor, sir!"
Panth, but not give up quite yet.

Roll #0 6 = 6

DM 327329

>>327322
Each failure takes a hit off you. Each crit fail takes 2 hits. Going helpless fails the test. You get a point for each hit you take.
A loud snap of wood and flesh
"Mhm. Do you like pretty dresses?"

327334

>>327329
"YES!"
Yelp as he hits me.
"I love them."

Roll #0 4 = 4

DM 327348

>>327334
So much for numbness. The shock of that went right through you.
"ARE YOU A PRETTY PRETTY PRANCING PRINCESS?"

327353

>>327348
"NO I AM NOT SIR!"
Wince and keep gritting my teeth.

Roll #0 2 = 2

DM 327360

>>327353
You feel nauseous from the pain of that hit…
"Good. Because I train paladins."

327361

>>327360
Hold it together.
"I will not… Delude you… Sir…"

Roll #0 2 = 2

DM 327364

>>327361
You can barely see straight…
"Giving up yet?"
He holds his strike

327369

>>327364
"One. More. Time."

Roll #0 7 = 7

DM 327370

>>327369
You bite down and take the hit
"Still want more?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327373

I'll whisper to Star.
"He's… probably not going to take it easy on you."

327374

>>327370
let me recap: I have two hits left, no?
Gulp down.
"I will show you I am born for this, sir!"

Roll #0 1 = 1

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327378

>>327373
I gulp, my lower lip trembling
"I-I'm so scared… Oh Luna…"

Nock [Tracker] 327384

>>327378
Give a sympathetic look while the instructor is preoccupied, and mouth, I believe in you.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327385

>>327378
"He does let you say when to stop, though. At least there's that."

DM 327392

>>327374
yes you do. Well, did.
>>327374
A sharp, eye watering pain shocks through your body as he lands a particularly nasty strike.
You fall over, whimpering and helpless
"Points off for not knowing your limits. Do not go dying for the sake of showing off. Nobody is impressed, looking at you, crying there on the ground.
Now get up and make space.
NEXT!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327393

>>327392
I'll head up. Help Papaver if she needs or wants the help.

327394

>>327392
Try to get up and go hide in shame in some corner.

Roll #0 5 = 5

327396

>>327392
Heal Papaver! Quick!

Roll #0 5 + 2 = 7

Sidus [Rogue] 327397

>>327394
"You took quite a beating."

327399

>>327397
"Yeah, didn't work out the way I thought."
>>327396
"Thanks…" Try to give her a smile.

Roll #0 9 = 9

DM 327402

>>327393
"Well well. You look like a tough one. Think you can last long?"
He lands his first blow

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327404

>>327402
'1d10'
"We'll find out, sir."

Roll #1 4 = 4

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327405

>>327399
I quickly go in for a shaky hug
"T-that was terrible…"

DM 327409

>>327404
If nothing else, he sure knows how to make that damn thing hurt.
"Who are you and why are you here?"

Nock [Tracker] 327410

>>327405
Break from my attention stance while the instructor is with Jon, to go over and see Vera.

"Vera! Oh, Vera, are you alright? I thought after seeing me yesterday you'd know to not overextend…"

Nock [Tracker] 327411

>>327410
This morning*

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327413

>>327409
"Jonagold Apple. I'm here to learn how to be a Paladin."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

327414

>>327405
Hug her back.
"Don't push yourself when you are there, okay?"
>>327410
"I just… I didn't think… It was one last hit. I could take it, I would have sworn I could have…"

Roll #0 9 = 9

DM 327424

>>327413
He is devious, intentionally looking for parts you probably don't get hit in that often. Like your belly.
"And what about you. Do you like pretty dresses?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327427

>>327424
"Only on mares, sir."
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327428

>>327414
"Wha- no… I wont…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327430

>>327428
Give her a quick kiss on the forehead.
'1d10'
"I'm sure you'll do great."

Roll #1 7 = 7

327433

>>327430
Spaghetti roll!

Roll #0 7 = 7

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327436

>>327430
>>327433
I blush ever so slightly
"Uh… right…"

DM 327437

>>327427
The pain is going nowhere
"Ever wanted to be a mare, Apple?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327440

>>327436
Ruffle her mane and let her go.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327443

>>327437
I suppose that counted as a fail, then.
"Are you implying something, sir?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Nock [Tracker] 327446

>>327430
>>327436
Smile. "Let's get back to our positions. We don't want him to pick us just because we're out of line. I'll go before you, alright?"

DM 327448

>>327443
MIN6
"I'm asking if you'd like to be a mare and wear a pretty dress, Apple."
The sharpness of his tongue is nothing to compare with that damn sword of his..

Papaver Field [Mage] 327451

>>327446
"I almost wish I could go once more…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327452

>>327448
"I think you'd look better in it, sir."
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

DM 327456

>>327452
Caught him off guard with that one. He barely even tapped you.
"Don't be a smartass, Apple. Nopony likes a smartass.
Any particular skills you looking to learn here?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327463

>>327456
"Learning to fight, sir. And how to protect others with that strength."
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

DM 327467

>>327463
And there's that nasty sting again… Your eyes are starting to water
"And how are you going to protect anyone if you can't even take a few hits?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327475

>>327467
"I was planning on fixing that."
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

DM 327478

>>327475
"Are you going to start crying, Apple? You look like it. Had enough?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327480

>>327478
I'll shake my head.
"I can take more than this, sir."
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

DM 327483

>>327480
One of your legs almost gives in
"You sure about that, Apple? Don't try showing off like an idiot."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327484

>>327483
"An Apple pony can take a beating, sir. We work as hard as the day is long. I can take one more hit."
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

DM 327490

>>327484
And so you can.
A tough hide strengthened by work is almost as good as armour.
"Giving up now?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327494

>>327490
"No sir."
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

DM 327497

>>327494
You are on the verge of collapsing
"I think it's time you admit your limit has been reached, Apple."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327504

>>327497
By my count, I should have two hits. I think I can suffer another…
"One last one, sir. Regardless if I take it or not, this is the last one."
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

DM 327528

>>327504
"Good lad Apple. It is important to know your own limits.
Off you go.

RIGHT. SMALL BREAK BEFORE THE NEXT ONE."

NEXT TIME ON PALADINS
MORE BEATINGS
PENIS INSPECTION DAY
AND WRITTEN EXAMS

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327535

>>327528
I'll shakily stumble back over to the group, and sit down. Hard.
"I'm gonna feel that tomorrow…"

327543

>>327535
Heal him
"O-oh gosh! Are you okay?"

Roll #0 3 + 2 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327547

>>327543
"I feel like a tree hit me, but I feel better now. Thanks Star."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327548

>>327535
Give him a little smile.
"You were a rock over there."

Nock [Tracker] 327550

Take the opportunity to give Vera a gentle hug.

"It's not too tender is it? I remember how it felt this morning."

327552

>>327550
Well this depends, let me see how much hurt that hug brings.

Roll #0 1 = 1

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327553

>>327548
"I am a farmer's foal, Vera. We Apples grow tough. You held up fairly well yourself."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327554

>>327547
I look at him fearfully

327556

>>327550
>>327552
Wince.
"Ouch. I think something's broken…"
Try to hold further tears.

Roll #0 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327558

>>327554
I'll just give her a tired smile.
"Really, I'm fine. Just a little sore."

327559

>>327556
I gasp and Heal her too again!

>>327558
"T-that was terrible though…"

Roll #0 10 = 10

Nock [Tracker] 327564

>>327556
Panic a little.

"I- I don't know how to fix this. I can't fix this."

Look helplessly at Star. "Magic…?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327565

>>327559
I'll shrug, and try not to wince as I do so. '1d10'
"Well, yeah, but that's how he is. So long as you don't focus on it, it doesn't really hurt too badly…"

Roll #1 2 = 2

327566

>>327559
Sigh in relief as she works.
"T-thanks…"
>>327564
"I guess not all magic is bad, uh?"
Smile at Nock.

Roll #0 7 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327567

>>327565
Nope, that's an obvious wince.

Nock [Tracker] 327570

>>327566
A weak smile. "Not all."

327572

>>327565
C'mon heal again!
"Y-you're in pain!"

>>327566
"I don't like seeing ponies in pain…"

Roll #0 6 + 2 = 8

327575

>>327565
"Hey, don't play the hero!"
Look worried at him.
>>327570
"I wonder why my parents hate it so much…"
Look at Nock, a bit sad.
>>327572
"You are a paladin already."
Chuckle up a bit.

Roll #0 4 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327582

>>327572
"Not anymore, though."
I'll give her a warm smile.
>>327575
"A hero probably would have been able to take everything the Battlemaster could dish out. I'm lucky I lasted as long as I did."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327593

>>327575
>>327582
I blush slightly
"O-oh you guys…"

Nock [Tracker] 327594

>>327575
I shake my head. "Magic isn't… awful. Not all the time. It's just dangerous. I think people get the wrong impression. It has to be… regulated."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327596

>>327594
"That's not what my family thinks… For them, is the tool of cowards."

327597

>>327594
>>327596

Roll #0 5 = 5

Nock [Tracker] 327598

>>327596
I give her a grin. "Well, I bet they wouldn't think too highly of my bow either, right?"

327599

>>327597
pls

Roll #0 7 = 7

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327601

>>327597
>>327599
>>327594
>>327596
I just paw at the ground awkwardly

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327603

>>327593
"Hey now, I wouldn't be giving you these compliments if you didn't deserve them."
>>327594
>>327596
"For me, magic's magic. Some ponies have it, some ponies don't. It's a tool, and it depends on the pony using it. I'd rather everypony be like Star, and use it for good, but…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327608

>>327598
"Takes strenght to pull a bow…"
>>327601
Move closer to her, sit, and pass a hoof over her shoulder.
'1d10'
"But you are the best~"
>>327603
"Yeah… But I'd rather not have it. If nothing, to not disappoint my parents."

Roll #1 5 = 5

327610

>>327608
>5

Roll #0 2 = 2

Nock [Tracker] 327614

>>327610
Wait, we can salvage this moment!

I'll get on her other side and sandwich her.

"You're already doing great, Star. I know you'll do well. You can pick how we spend the night tonight. More stargazing, maybe?"

327615

>>327614

Roll #0 10 = 10

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327616

>>327608
"Why would your parents be disappointed? I mean, I know you come from a family of fighting ponies, but there are spellcasting fighters out there. Like I said, it's a tool."

Nock [Tracker] 327619

>>327616
"They don't even want her to use swords!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327620

>>327603
"T-that's really nice of you to say but… I mean… magic is for wimps like me."

>>327608
>>327610
I just cringe slightly

>>327614
"I-I don't know if I'll be in any shape to after this test…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327625

>>327615
That's some heavy duty cuddle ordnance you got there. Is it your flank?
>>327616
"They-"
Just nod as Nock tells him about the swords.
"That. They don't think a true fighter should use magic. Is not honorable."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327626

>>327620
"Star Hopper, you silly filly."
I'll gently boop her nose.'1d10'
"Magic is not for 'wimps like you.' You're not even a wimp!"

Roll #1 3 = 3

Nock [Tracker] 327632

>>327620
"Hm… Well, it's tradition in my family to get a care package on the third night. Want to help me open it? Part of the tradition is cake."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327636

>>327626
"Y-you heard Vera and Nock… P-ponies think magic users are cowards and wimps, and I guess that's true…"
I kick at the ground idly
"I-I'm not a brave or a great pony. I couldn't even run those laps…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327637

>>327632
"Hey I feel left out of this whole cake thing!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327638

>>327632
My ears perk up
"Cake?"

Nock [Tracker] 327640

>>327637
>>327638
"Sure, we can all share. I'm a light eater."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327642

>>327625
"You're just as silly as she is. If anything, your parents should be proud you can beat magic into submission to use against your enemies."
>>327636
"Everyone has to start somewhere, Star."
After thinking for a minute, I'll smile.
"You know what? I've got an idea. I'd like you to join me during free periods. I'll help you exercise, and you can help me study. How about that?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327648

>>327642
Give him a hurt look.
"But they don't. And I respect them. There is a reason our family never used magic and thrived!"
>>327640
"I'll make it up somehow, I swear!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327651

>>327642
I smile non-awkwardly '1d10'
"That would be… really nice of you."

>>327640
Ditto. 'r2 1d10'
"T-thanks Nock. You're really kind…"

Roll #1 6 = 6 / Roll #2 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327652

>>327648
I'll rub my chin with my hoof.
"And what reason's that? Pride?"

327656

>>327652
"And Honor! And Traditions!"
Try to stand tall even thou I just took a beating and I'm snuggling with two other girls at my side.

Roll #0 5 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327661

>>327656
I'll nod at that.
"Honor and tradition are pretty good reasons. But you know, Paladins augment their strength with magic. Blast techniques alone are channeling energy against a specific enemy. It's why we need catalysts. If your family was so dead-set against magic, they wouldn't have let you come here in the first place."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327669

>>327661
"Blast and inner strenght techniques are not magic, silly."
Blast is weapon tagged, not spell.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327672

>>327669
It's still magical though.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327675

>>327669
Oh is it.
"It might as well be, though. I mean, what's magic other than using your inner strength to control things with spells?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327676

>>327672
No, it does not require a catalyst.

Papaver Field [Mage] 327677

>>327675
"I don't know, I'm not a mage."

Nock [Tracker] 327679

>>327651
Return the smile. "Of course, Star. You're a special pony in a lot of ways. You just have to stop being so hard on yourself. I'm sure you'll learn to love becoming a paladin."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327683

>>327676
I know it's not in the rules, you dumbass. But it's still holy in nature. Earth ponies have passive magic too. As do Pegasi to allow them to walk on clouds.

>>327679
"N-now you're just trying to make me blush…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327684

>>327677
I'll shrug.
"Well, neither am I. That's why I asked."
I'll turn to Star.
"Maybe you could shed some light on it?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327690

>>327683
"To be fair, you are pretty cute when you blush."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327697

>>327690
"Uhm, I mean…"
'1d10' not to blush myself.

Roll #1 1 = 1

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327698

>>327697
"Ah jeez."
I'll just turn a brilliant shade of scarlet and stop talking.

Papaver Field [Mage] 327702

>>327690
"Hey, he's right."
>>327697
Squee as I see him blush too and giggle a bit.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327704

>>327690
>>327697
>>327698
I let out a soft giggle

Nock [Tracker] 327712

>>327702
>>327697
Contain laughter. '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Nock [Tracker] 327713

>>327712
I barely hold on. "I promised no more teasing~"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327718

>>327713
"No, no, this I wanna hear!"
Well the mood sure is happy around here.

Nock [Tracker] 327721

>>327718
A grin. "Nope. My lips are sealed."

Yeah, considering half of us are about to get beaten savagely, it is.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327727

Well, let's see if we can't get that blush under control. '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Papaver Field [Mage] 327729

>>327721
"I wanna knoooow~"
Tickle the secret out of her!
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327738

>>327727
Nope, still spaghetti town.
"I'll just, um, let you get back to… whatever it is to get back to. And, uh, good luck Nock, Star."
And with that, I'll try not to embarrass myself further as I drift away from the three. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Nock [Tracker] 327740

>>327729
Blush. That area… didn't tickle at all.

Papaver Field [Mage] 327742

>>327740
Well, look a bit disappointed.
"You are no fun.."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327813

>>327738
"H-hey! Why are you leaving?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327836

>>327813
I'll stop.
"It's… nothing, just moving around a little while we wait."
'1d10' to get that damn blush back under control.
I'll return to the three mares.

Roll #1 3 = 3

Papaver Field [Mage] 327839

>>327836
"You are almost redder than me~"
Smirk at him.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327843

>>327839
"Y-you shush, miss party-parts book."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327845

>>327836
I stare at him
"Are you… a-are you feeling well?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327848

>>327845
"Yes, I'm fine. Really. Really, I am."
'1d10' blush pls stop.

Roll #1 3 = 3

327851

>>327843
OH LOOK AT THIS RED!
"T-that was Nock!"

Roll #0 9 = 9

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327854

>>327848
I look a little worried
"D-did I say something silly maybe?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327856

>>327854
"No, not at all. You have said nothing silly. I'm just… the bloods rushing to my head, is all."
'1d10' stop blushing dammit.
I'm sure it'll pass in just a minute."

Roll #1 5 = 5

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327857

>>327856
I gasp and put a hoof on his head
"A-are you ill? A fever?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327858

>>327857
Ah jeez.
'1d10+-1"
"N-no, that's not it, I just… just…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327859

>>327858
'1d10+-1'

Roll #1 4 - 1 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327862

>>327858
>>327859
I'll just trail off an mumble little nothings to myself.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327864

>>327862
I look at him with wide eyes
"…J-jonagold?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327866

>>327864
Last ditch chance at keeping the pasta where it belongs.
'1d10+-1'

Roll #1 1 - 1 = 0

Papaver Field [Mage] 327867

>>327866
OH GOD THERE'S BLOOD EVERYWHERE!

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327869

>>327864
>>327866
Well, cat's out of the bag now.
"I THINK I MIGHT LIKE YOU."
And blushing even worse, I'll just fold up into a little ball on the ground with my hooves over my eyes.

327872

>>327869
Roll not to SHOCK!

Roll #0 5 = 5

327874

>>327872
>5

Roll #0 4 = 4

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327877

>>327866
I just gawk at this incarnation of spaghetti
"I-I think you need to lie down or something…"

327878

>>327869

Roll #0 4 = 4

Nock [Tracker] 327879

>>327869
Contain laugh, keep it cool. I want to tease. I will contain myself! My promise! I will not fail!

"How… cute?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327881

>>327877
Just look at the two, shocked by what is happening.
>>327879
Turn to her and give a blank stare, mouth agape.
"Wha?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327882

>>327878
>>327869
"I… wha-… uh… uh…"
I desperately look for the right words here, but just can't find them

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327883

>>327877
It can't get any worse than this.
Not moving and remaining sorta bundled up, I'll speak.
"I really do, though. You're nice, you're cute, you've got a great heart, and you're just… just…"
I can't even finish.
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have… I'll just… I'll just lie here for right now."

Nock [Tracker] 327884

>>327881
"You didn't see it coming? He sent us our uniforms and dessert, Vera. Obviously he had a crush on someone in our room."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327885

>>327884
Shut my mouth and move closer to her.
"I don't even know what a crush is.."

Nock [Tracker] 327886

>>327885
"It means he likes her and wants to be more than a friend."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327887

>>327886
"Yeah but that is stuff for… Parents! Not other ponies!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327888

>>327883
"N-no! … uh… I…"
I desperately look over to Nock and Vera, unsure what to do or say

327889

>>327888
Give her an encouraging smile?
I guess…

Roll #0 5 = 5

Nock [Tracker] 327891

>>327887
"Come on, Vera, we're mares now. Just wait, I'll explain all about it tonight."

>>327888
"Star… maybe you should tell him if you like him back or not."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327893

>>327891
"Are we gonna read more from that book?"

Nock [Tracker] 327894

>>327893
"Shush! Later!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327895

>>327891
I blush bright red
"W-well… he's really nice… I-I do… think he's cute too…"
I swallow
"I-I can say that about stallions r-right?"

327902

>>327895
Nod at her.
Roll not to give away I know jack all about this.

Roll #0 4 = 4

Nock [Tracker] 327903

>>327895
"Yeah, Star! You're a mare now!"

Poke his head with a hoof a little bit. "You gonna live?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327907

>>327903
"Probably. This is the mos' embarrassed I've ever been in my whole life."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327909

>>327907
"I think you looked adorable!"

Nock [Tracker] 327910

>>327907
"You don't get to be embarrassed yet, because she hasn't said no yet!"

Poke him a few more times for good measure.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327914

>>327907
"H-hey…"
I put a hoof on his shoulder and give him a smile '1d10'
"D-don't be…"

Roll #1 3 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327920

>>327914
"I'll be as embarrassed as I like, miss Hopper. This ain't how I'd hoped to confess my affections."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327923

>>327914
"C'mon, don't leave him hanging like this…"
Try to sound encouraging.
'1d10'
>>327910
"Ush you."
Give her a harsh look.

Roll #1 4 = 4

Nock [Tracker] 327927

>>327914
"By that, do you mean you want to invite him out to stargaze tonight after cake? Just the two of you?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327929

>>327920
>>327923
"Uh… uh…"
I blush once more and just give him a hug '1d10'

>>327927
"Y-yes?"

Roll #1 6 = 6

Papaver Field [Mage] 327934

>>327929
Squee.
"You go girl!"
Give a wide smile, giggle like a little filly and clop my hooves together.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327936

>>327929
I'll freeze solid for just a second, and then relax.
Letting out a sigh of relief, maybe now that damn blush will clear up. '1d10'
And I'll return the hug. 'r2 1d10'
"Do you mean it?"

Roll #1 2 = 2 / Roll #2 9 = 9

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327946

>>327936
I nod
"Well… you're nice, so… yes. I mean I've never really… had somepony say something like that to me before…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327948

Turn to Nock.
"Should we leave them alone?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327950

>>327946
"Well, I've never said that to anypony before, so I guess we're sorta even?"

Wf+6 327953

>>327948
"Let's give them some space, though… we are still in the middle of physicals. Jon is about to have to watch his new marefriend get whipped."

Nock [Tracker] 327954

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327955

>>327950
I blush at that
"I-I guess so…"
Keep hugging him
"So… what happens now? B-between us I mean?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327958

>>327955
"W-well, I can't rightly say. I guess we just… act like normal, except maybe we go on dates sometimes?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 327959

>>327953
Wince.
"There has to be a way to make this easier on her…"

Nock [Tracker] 327967

>>327959
"If she takes too many hits, they'll make the successive tests harder for her. If she could just take one or two, she could probably surrender with dignity…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327973

>>327958
I scratch the back of my head
"O-oh dear… uh… l-like tonight?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327979

>>327973
I'll nod.
"That would count as a date."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327981

>>327979
I smile slightly
"O-okay… that shouldn't be so hard then… I wasn't really sure if that counted or not…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 327987

>>327981
"Well, we'll just have to make it up as we go, then."
I'll remember where we are, and suddenly blush again.
"But we might want to stop hugging in the middle of the practice field."

Papaver Field [Mage] 327993

>>327967
"It's all in her hooves, uh?"
Look sadly at the ground.
"We should go."

Walk away and leave Star and Jonagold alone.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 327994

>>327987
I quickly back off
"R-right!"
Rolling to not blush even redder '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328003

>>327994
I'll try to compose myself as well. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328006

>>328003
Nope, I've still got that damn blush and a stupid grin to go with it.

DM 328677

'1d10'
"Good enough, Cadet.
NEXT!"
Burning Heart limps away from the Battlemaster, whining a little.

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 328678

>>328677
'3d10'
'r2 1d3'

Roll #1 1, 10, 7 = 18 / Roll #2 1 = 1

DM 328680

>>328678
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sidus [Rogue] 328690

>>328677
Give her a reassuring smile.
Looks like she did good.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328691

>>328006
Let's just stand next to him for now

I still need to go up to the chopping block…

DM 328696

>>328690
>>328691
"I said NEXT!"

Sidus [Rogue] 328697

>>328696
Step forward with a grin.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328698

>>328691
"Good luck, Star."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328700

>>328696
I gulp and just wait for someone else to step up

DM 328706

>>328697
"Right. You. No need to hear your name. But why are you really here?"
He winds up the first hit

328708

>>328706
"To be even better and greater than I already am!"
Stand tall and keep that grin on my face.

Roll #0 5 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328710

>>328700
"Hey, you'll be fine. It's no worse than getting switched by your ma when you misbehave."
I'll keep to myself that my ma had a nasty swing to go with her temper.

DM 328715

>>328708
Keeping that grin is a little hard with the burning sting of that blow rippling through you
"And how will you accomplish that goal?"

328718

>>328715
"By becoming the best Paladin this place ever trained!"

Roll #0 5 = 5

DM 328726

>>328718
"And how will you accomplish that goal?"
You know, the pain isn't getting any easier to take…

328735

>>328726
Of course it is.
Just keep grinning, and concentrate.
Block the pain and think of just how great I am.
"By acing every test and winning every challenge!"

Roll #0 2 = 2

DM 328738

>>328735
So much for that grin.
You're tearing up…
"And the first of those tests is knowing when to give up. Ready to accept you've reached your limit?"

328741

>>328738
"I never give up."

Roll #0 10 = 10

Papaver Field [Mage] 328742

>>328738
Wince as I see him distressed.
Maybe Star was right after all. He's just a sad, poor kid.

DM 328744

>>328741
You find some new strength to endure the blow
"There is no shame in not dying for the sake of image"

328749

>>328744
Okay, I need to find that grin again.
"You imply that I could ever lose."

Roll #0 1 = 1

Sidus [Rogue] 328750

>>328749
Fuck that
Escape Artist back up.

DM 328761

>>328749
And he drops you like a sack of potatoes with a blow to the head.
>>328750
"Am I supposed to be impressed or something?"

328764

>>328761
"I'm not done with you yet. Hit me again. Unless you are afraid to."

Roll #0 5 = 5

DM 328770

>>328764
He smacks you across the nose
"What makes you think you make the rules here?"

328773

>>328770
"Because it would be a shame to leave the rule making to an imbecile. Like you.

Roll #0 5 = 5

DM 328781

>>328773
"I have been insulted by far more eloquent weaklings than you. Endlessly crying about how they don't think it's fair I treat them the same as I treat everyone else. With no understanding of the meaning of this test.
You are not here to prove anything to me.
Except how stupid you are."
You are panting, tears flowing down your bruised face.
"Ready to give up?"

328787

>>328781
"I understand why you have this test. Except that I don't let my enemy bash me down while standing still in combat."

Just one more.

Roll #0 3 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328790

>>328787
I'll wince at the beating he's been taking.
"I don't think the Battlemaster likes him much…"

DM 328793

>>328787
And down you go again. The pain is too much for you to remain standing.
"Nor can you expect to avoid every blow you will suffer.
TWICE you failed to know your limits. TWICE you went down.
I see no reason not to fail you here and now. Unless you can give me a reason."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328795

>>328790
"He sure seems to enjoy a beating…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328798

>>328790
>>328795
"This is terrible…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328800

>>328795
"His pride won't let him back down, though. It's not that he can't back down from it, I think, it's that he won't."
I'll rub my chin for a minute.
"I guess, in that way, you and he have common ground. He's just more obnoxious about it."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328801

>>328798
"Hey, don't give in. I'm sure you'll do great."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328805

>>328800
"Yeah… That's what I was afraid of…."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328806

>>328798
"You'll do fine, Star. I'm sure of it."

Sidus [Rogue] 328807

>>328793
Try to stand up, but not for more beating.
'1d10'
Look him in the eyes.
"Because giving up is a sign of weakness. Falling down doesn't mean you failed. Not trying to stand up does. If you are face down in the dirt you can stand up and fall down again and again and again, but that's not losing. Giving up and staying down means losing because you don't even give trying again a chance."

Roll #1 1 = 1

DM 328809

>>328807
You cry half of those words.
There is no way you're walking away from there.
"And what of asking for help when you can no longer press on on your own?"

Sidus [Rogue] 328812

>>328809
Can I at least stand up?
'1d10'
"Then you better have ponies you can trust and rely on to help you out so you can help them back when they get in the same situation."

Roll #1 10 = 10

DM 328814

>>328812
He offers you a hoof to get up.
You can take it, or stand up on your own.
"And what was the purpose of this test, Sidus?"

Sidus [Rogue] 328816

>>328814
Take it.
"To better know ourselves."

DM 328817

>>328816
"At least you understood that much. I won't fail you for it. But I am taking points off for not knowing your limits.
NEXT!"

Sidus [Rogue] 328818

>>328817
Try to limp away.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

328819

"Don't worry Star, you will be fine…"
Try to give her a reassuring smile.

Roll #0 8 = 8

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328820

>>328819
"… yeah… sure."

>>328817
I take a deep breath and skittishly walk over to the Battlemaster
"… Hi."

DM 328822

>>328818
Luckily for you, the health exam includes a free healing spell.
>>328820
"And your name is?"
He readies for the first hit

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328823

>>328818
"You alright, Sidus?"

328824

>>328822
I gulp
"S-star Hopper… sir."
Brace myself for the pain

Roll #0 1 = 1

Sidus [Rogue] 328825

>>328823
"I've been worse."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328826

>>328825
"You know, the instructor told you not to get up…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328827

>>328824
I'll wince at that.
>>328825
"If you say so."

DM 328830

>>328824
There is no bracing here.
Only the merciless strike of food on bare flesh. The sound of skin and muscle screaming in agony. And the swish as he prepares for another one.
"You may stop at any time.
Why are you here?"

Sidus [Rogue] 328831

>>328826
"And just stay down because he said so? That's more of a defeat than getting beaten again."

328833

>>328830

Roll #0 6 = 6

DM 328835

>>328833
Be it aftershock or actual willpower, you endure that hit.
"Well? Cat got your tongue, miss Star?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 328836

>>328830
Wince.
>>328831
"It was against his orders. There is no honor in that."

328837

>>328830
>>328833
I shriek as he hits and and shakily get back up
"I… T-to help ponykind. T-to study and learn more about magic."

Roll #0 9 = 9

Sidus [Rogue] 328841

>>328836
"I see no honor in giving up either."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328844

>>328841
"Yeah. That much I can give you."

DM 328846

>>328837
This… is not as bad as it seemed.
"And what sort of magic in particular?"

328852

>>328846
"T-the holy and divine kind m-mostly… Arcane too…"

Roll #0 7 = 7

Sidus [Rogue] 328853

>>328844
"If this wasn't a waste of my time I would have stayed for more."

DM 328856

>>328852
You can do this. You can do this.
"And do you think that'll finally earn you a cutie mark?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 328857

>>328853
"I think the battlemaster would have kicked you out of the fields…"
>>328852
Whoa.
Turn to Jonagold.
"She's actually good!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328858

>>328853
"Even though not giving up is good, Sidus, you've got to know when to come at something from a different angle."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328859

>>328857
"I told her she'd be fine."

328865

>>328856
I look at him quizzically, gritting my teeth as I attempt to endure
"… w-what? I… I already have my cutie mark…"

Roll #0 10 = 10

Sidus [Rogue] 328867

>>328857
I chuckle.
"Wouldn't stop me!"

>>328858
"I know that all right. I would never just get in dumb hits like that if not for a test like this."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328870

>>328867
"True. You are pretty dodgy."

DM 328872

>>328865
You could barely even feel that
"Indeed. It is good that a distraction does not throw you off easily. Lets see if hitting a little harder does."

328873

>>328872
"O-oh…"
Shut my eyes tight and send more prayers to Luna

Roll #0 6 = 6

DM 328880

>>328873
You can still take it with stride
"Mhm. Mhm. Lets see how you take hits to more tender areas.
So tell me, miss Star, how do you seek to learn magic?"

328882

>>328880
I gulp.
Tender areas?
"P-practice… and study… and… uh… p-prayer."

Roll #0 8 = 8

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328884

>>328880
Tender areas?
Just where is he hitting her? '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Papaver Field [Mage] 328886

>>328884
"Must be all those sweets she eats…"

DM 328888

>>328882
A smack against the belly does not really faze you.
"So, do you seek Ascendancy?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328891

>>328886
"Nah, I don't think it's that. Star's probably just a lot more durable than she thinks she is."
I'll give a little smile.
"Knew she'd be fine."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328893

>>328891
"I was talking about the tender parts…"
Giggle a bit.

328895

>>328888
"I… I don't know… Uh… T-that really sounds like advanced… paladin stuff."

Roll #0 8 = 8

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328898

>>328893
"Oh."
I'll blush a little.

DM 328899

>>328895
He keeps hitting. You still stand your ground.
"A long path begins with a first step.
Any preference as to where I should hit next?"

Nock [Tracker] 328901

>>328893
Scrunch. That's totally inappropriate, but I'm not breaking ranks to tell her off now. Look stoic!

328912

>>328899
"U-uh…"
I trail off, not sure how to respond

Roll #0 9 = 9

DM 328915

>>328912
He bashes you on the head, but no real pain registers.
"I asked you a question miss Star."

328920

>>328915
I flatten my ears
"I-I don't know!"

Roll #0 1 = 1

DM 328929

>>328920
Well… he sure found an answer.
You stumble a little and tears fill your eyes as the pain returns in full
"Ready to give up?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328934

>>328929
I let out a whimper and nod

DM 328936

>>328934
"There is no shame in it. You endured well.
NEXT!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 328937

>>328936
I think we are all done.

328938

>>328936
I stumble off, trying to Heal myself

Roll #0 8 + 2 = 10

Papaver Field [Mage] 328939

>>328938
Okay lend a page from Nock's book and stand still, but give her a smile and a non-sexual wink.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328940

>>328937
Nock still needs to go.
>>328938
I'll welcome her back.
"See, I told you you'd be fine. You took more hits than I did!"

DM 328942

>>328937
What about Nock?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328944

>>328939
Give her a half-hearted smile back

>>328940
"I-it still really hurt though…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328947

>>328944
"Nothing a little rest won't fix. Besides, the worst's behind us. All that's left is the physical, I think."

Nock [Tracker] 328949

>>328942
>>328936
"Ready, sir."

DM 328951

>>328949
"Step on up then. What is your name."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328953

>>328947
I let out a weak sigh
"It's… it's not even over yet?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 328954

>>328953
"Almost. There's a written exam, too. But you should ace that, no sweat."

Papaver Field [Mage] 328955

>>328954
Neigh a bit at the mention of a written exam.

328962

>>328951
"Nock, daughter of Spell Seeker."

Roll #0 10 = 10

DM 328967

>>328962
You hardly even felt that blow
"And what are you here to do?"

328969

>>328967
"I am here to learn to serve Equestria, sir."

Roll #0 9 = 9

DM 328982

>>328969
Either the Battlemaster is slowing down, going easy on you, or you are just one tough cookie.
"And how will you best accomplish that goal here?"

328990

>>328982
"I will pliable, sir! My body and mind are your clay, sir!"

Roll #0 3 = 3

DM 328993

>>328990
Well your body will be like well tenderized beef if that hit was anything to go by.
"Do you have any plan of your own?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 328995

>>328954
"Oh… that's nice."

329001

>>328993
"Yessir! My family has served the Inquisition for generations, sir!"

Roll #0 8 = 8

DM 329014

>>329001
"I don't train Inquisitors. is that all you want from life? Hunting and persecuting those your superiors want dead for whatever nebulous reason they masquerade as righteous and holy?"

329040

>>329014
"No, sir! The Inquisition's greatest leaders have always charged each member to question everything, sir! Anyone can be guilty, sir! Even the ones giving the orders!"

Roll #0 5 = 5

DM 329044

>>329040
You might have given him a reason to hit harder…
"I will not have madponies and conspiracy theorists in my ranks. What is it that fascinates you so about the Inquisition?"

329046

>>329044
"My family has served for generations, sir! My talent is in undoing magic, sir! To serve the Inquisition is in my blood and in my destiny, sir!"

Roll #0 8 = 8

DM 329047

>>329046
"Undoing magic? Now that I can agree with. Heck I used to teach it. What else do you like?"
Looks like you could take that hit no sweat.

329048

>>329047
"I…" Hesitate. "I like to teach, sir. But someone must carry on my Inquisitorial line, and there are no other heirs!"

Roll #0 5 = 5

DM 329051

>>329048
Hesitating feels painful. Or then it's the Battlemaster beating you over the head.
"Are you a pony onto yourself or merely an extension of your parents?"

329055

>>329051
"There is a way to be both!"

Roll #0 7 = 7

DM 329064

>>329055
Inquisitor stronk! Hang in there!
"Often, being one hinders the other."

329070

>>329064
Grit my teeth.

"I KNOW! I've always known! I thought if I didn't confront it…"

Roll #0 1 = 1

DM 329076

>>329070
A momentary lapse in focus and all the pain comes crashing right down on you.
"Ignoring a problem will not make it go away. Ready go five up?"

Nock [Tracker] 329081

>>329076
Slump slightly.

"I yield, sir."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329084

>>329081
Damnit girl!
Keep it to myself thou. Grit my teeth.
It's just because she had been whipped already!

DM 329094

>>329081
"Good. Know your limits. Learn from them."

"That concludes the tests, all of you. Your final task here is to get a checkup by one of our staff doctors so we have an understanding of your general health and condition. these will be conducted in the infirmary in no particular order. If you wish to know your scores, ask.
Otherwise, DISMISSED."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329104

>>329094
I'll let the girls chat for a bit, and head over to the battlemaster to check my scores. I need to know where to improve.

Papaver Field [Mage] 329108

>>329094
Head over to the battlemaster.
"Sir I… I know I messed up. I'm sorry."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329109

>>329081
Heal her! '1d10+2'
"O-oh stars, are you… okay?"

Roll #1 4 + 2 = 6

Sidus [Rogue] 329113

>>329094
Let's go to that checkup for now.
Just to get over with it.

Nock [Tracker] 329114

>>329109
Nod weakly. "I'll live. It's not as bad as the first one, I think."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329118

>>329114
"It's not fair, you had to suffer through this twice…"

DM 329130

>>329104
"Apple. Remarkable pain tolerance. Good speed. A little lacking in strength, but above average in stamina. Points off for weapon handling.
Overall, tied for best total score."
>>329108
"You are slow and lacking in endurance. But your strength is remarkable and you can hold up hits well. A point off for combat skill though."
>>329113
Mind if we save it for next time?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329134

>>329104
>>329130
I also follow after him

Nock [Tracker] 329135

>>329118
I shake my head and smile weakly. "Maybe it's part of the program. To make sure we're twice as tough. Honestly, my pride is more wounded by my endurance score."

Sidus [Rogue] 329136

>>329130
Yeah, not that I had much impact today anyway

Papaver Field [Mage] 329137

>>329130
"Will… Will make it up, sir."
Ready for the checkup.
>>329135
"Ush. Don't even start that. What ever did you fail at?
You even knew when to stop!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329139

>>329130
I'll be a bit surprised at that.
"Thank you, sir. At least now I know where to start."
I'll take a few steps away and wait for Star and the others to get their scores and be ready to head to the check-up area.

Nock [Tracker] 329141

>>329137
Lower my head in shame. "I got a two for endurance. Embarassing."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329143

>>329141
Give her a scowl.
"And? It's just your body, not your mind! You are just gonna give up now? I did bad in speed too, so we can train together!"

DM 329146

NEXT TIME ON TIME WARP
THE REST
OF DAY
3

Nock [Tracker] 329158

>>329143
Give her just as big a scowl. "Just the opposite! I have to get better before anyone from my family finds out!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329164

>>329158
"Yeah, I can understand this…"
Sigh and slowly trail off with my voice.
"But still! We just have to train!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329169

>>329139
"S-so… now that the test thingy is over…"

Nock [Tracker] 329171

>>329164
Sigh at her. "What can I do to train my endurance, anyway? Keep running laps? We'll have to figure something out. Well… I'm sure I'll do better. I have to."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329179

>>329171
"Yeah we can! Keep running is good! Exactly what you should do! What I should do!"
Give her a motivated look.
"We can start as soon as we have our class schedules. I'm not letting you slack of-"
Grow gloom.
"But I guess you have inquisitor stuff to do…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329180

>>329169
"Well, there's still the physical exam and the written, but yes, now that the tests are over… um."
I'll sort of shuffle my hooves.
"W-what did you want to do?"

Nock [Tracker] 329184

>>329179
Give her whatever smile I can manage in my current state. "I'll be with you whenever I can, Vera."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329195

>>329184
Look really sad at this.
"But…"
Sigh.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329198

>>329180
Gee, the ground sure looks interesting…
"Uh… A-any ideas?"

329201

>>329195
Can I manage a hug without hurting myself?

Roll #0 9 = 9

Papaver Field [Mage] 329204

>>329201
"You are really comfy for somepony that's been beaten up so much…"
Yep, comfy hug.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329205

>>329198
I'll clear my throat.
"Well, uh, we could… we could hang out in the library until it's time for the other exams?"
Geez, when did talking get so hard.

Nock [Tracker] 329206

>>329204
"Maybe they're teaching us how to give really good hugs in the Inquisitor classes."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329207

>>329205
I fiddle my hooves slightly
"I-if you want that…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329210

>>329206
"Might be worth the wait then…"
That's one long ass hug.
Amidst a lot of ponies.
Does it feel a little awkward?
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Papaver Field [Mage] 329211

>>329210
Awkward? It feels comfy and fuzzy and a lot of things, but not awkward.

Nock [Tracker] 329215

>>329210
>>329211
I can't even imagine caring what other ponies think of me in this moment. It's so good to share this moment with a friend after that beating, especially one so philosophically esoteric.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329217

>>329207
"W-well, I mean… if you'd like to go somewhere else, then maybe… uhm."
I'll scratch the back of my neck.
"It's just, I haven't really explored a lot of the academy, so I do'nt know where else you would like to go."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329226

>>329215
"Hey… You think we.. We should… You know, break the hug?"
Say this with an unsure voice. I really don't wanna.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329229

>>329217
"O-oh… neither have I…"
Look around awkwardly, this is hard…

329230

>>329226
Should we? I mean, everyone will probably just write it off as relief, anyway…

Roll #0 5 = 5

329231

>>329230

Roll #0 4 = 4

Nock [Tracker] 329232

>>329230
>>329231
Yeah… that's enough for now.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329236

>>329229
I'll brighten up at that.
"Well, there we go! We can go on a nice walk, and explore the academy."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329238

>>329232
Aww.
That's too bad.
Give a nervous giggle as I move away.
"Yeah, it must have looked silly.
Eheh…"
OH GOD WHERE ARE THOSE OTHER TWO?
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Papaver Field [Mage] 329240

>>329238
Can't see'm for shit, capt'n.

Nock [Tracker] 329242

>>329238
Give her the grin. "Us? Look silly? We're just two mares sharing a moment of relief after a tough exam. Now compare that to the stallion who yelled his admission of love to the entire class, then curled up in a ball at the feet of the most bookish girl here."

329247

>>329236
My ears perk up
"O-oh… sure, that's sounds nice."
I try to smile at him non-awkwardly

Roll #0 1 = 1

Papaver Field [Mage] 329251

>>329242
Okay that made me relax.
"Right. Poor Jon!"
Giggle a bit.
"Still, I have yet to figure out what they are doing. They just disappeared…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329252

>>329247
Oh boy, that's awkward. '1d10' to not get infected with the spaghetti.

Roll #1 10 = 10

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329255

>>329247
>>329252
Okay, looks like I've finally got that blush under control.
"If it makes you more comfortable, Vera and Nock could come with us."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329259

>>329255
I gulp and wipe that smile off of my face
"Uh… I… Y-you decide."

Nock [Tracker] 329262

>>329251
"They want some private time together. It's only right, if they're going to date, right? Meanwhile, we can go back to the dorms and relax."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329265

>>329262
"Yeah but what is it anyway?"
Start trotting back to the dorms.
Could really use the big shower right about now.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329266

>>329259
I'll just shake my head a bit.
"I don't plan on taking this any faster than you're comfortable with, Star. I'm letting you set the pace, so I'll go with what makes you the most comfortable."
I'll swallow slightly.
"If you think you're comfortable with walking around alone with me, I'm ecstatic, but if you're not, I don't want you to push yourself."

Nock [Tracker] 329267

>>329265
"What is what?"

Frankly, I could use a shower myself.

Papaver Field [Mage] 329268

>>329267
"This date thing. First time I hear about it."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329269

>>329266
"Oh… uh… O-okay… I-I'm fine with walking with you alone… you're really… nice."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329270

>>329269
"Then, would you do me the honor of joining me for a walk, Star?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329272

>>329270
I blush and nod
"… yes. O-okay."

Nock [Tracker] 329273

>>329268
Sigh. "You really were sheltered. No crushes? No dates? I might think you're secretly noble, and all you've known your whole life were arranged marriages."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329277

>>329272
Sidling up next to Star, I guess we can start walking.
"So, where would you like to go first? Or should we amble about until we find somewhre nice?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329282

>>329273
"Wh- no!"
Emit a high pitched yelp and sound a little upset, but then give in and lower my head, speaking in a low voice.
"Maybe… All I've ever seen was the training field. My family has a big, big one. As big as the one of the academy."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329283

>>329277
"O-oh uh… I don't know, maybe w-we can just… explore?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 329300

>>329283
I'll nod.
"Alright, then let's start by going… this way."
I'll motion towards the exit of the training fields, and keep pace with Star as we leave.

Nock [Tracker] 329310

>>329282
Smile. "I know the feeling. I was raised on a compound. Still… it was important to my father that I continue the family legacy. Take a stallion."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329316

>>329310
Look distressed for a second.
"That sounds… Strange. And wrong."

Nock [Tracker] 329328

>>329316
Give her a surprised look. "What's wrong about that? It's not like I actually acted on it. He didn't want me to be all useless when it came time for the academy. He just made it clear that I will continue the family line when I am older."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 329329

>>329300
Skittishly follow behind him

Papaver Field [Mage] 329335

>>329328
"In my family, there is nothing like that.. I don't think anyone ever had to be arranged into a marriage.
Sounds just wrong. What if that stallion is not a strong warrior?"

Hey look, is this our room? I bet it is!

Nock [Tracker] 329340

>>329335
Looks like it to me.

Laugh. "I think he'd only arrange something if I couldn't find a mate myself. In fact, I think he prefers it that way. Not interested in uniting any estates. I'm sure I'll find the one some day, but I have years and years for that. The academy is right here and now."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329347

>>329340
And wonder what, this here looks just like a shower!

Kick the door open.
"And you still have not told me what a date is!"

Nock [Tracker] 329350

>>329347
"Hey, wait, who's going to use the shower first? We could both use it."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329352

>>329350
"I don't think there's time to take two showers. Wanna go in? I'm not too bad off…"

Or am I?
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

329357

>>329352
How am I holding up?

Roll #0 3 = 3

Papaver Field [Mage] 329360

>>329357
"You really need a bath."
Give her a smile.
"Want help?"

Nock [Tracker] 329363

>>329360
Grimace a bit.

"Do I look that bad off?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329365

>>329363
Well how the hell do I answer at that?
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Papaver Field [Mage] 329367

>>329365
>>329363
"No, you are still as strong as ever. All those beatings could not take you down."
Smile at her.
"But maybe a quick shower could help relax your muscles."

329368

>>329367
A weak smile. "Well, if you think I'm alright, I'm alright. I'll be fine on my own."

How does the shower go?

Roll #0 5 = 5

329369

>>329368
That's not an answer!

Roll #0 6 = 6

Papaver Field [Mage] 329382

>>329369
Mill about in the room.
Actually, jump on the bed.
"HEY NOCK! CAN YOU HEAR ME?"

Nock [Tracker] 329384

>>329382
"HUH? WHAT IS IT?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329385

>>329384
"How you like the water?"
Giggle a bit.
"So, you have not told me what a date is!"

Nock [Tracker] 329393

>>329385
"It's… good. A date is when you go with a pony you like more than others because you like to be around them alone. Ponies usually do it to see if they're compatible mates."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329400

>>329393
"They do not spar to choose a mate? That's strange!"
So wait, Star and Jon are now on a… Ahahah! Can't believe it!
"That's why Jon was so embarassed! AH!"
laugh with gusto.

Nock [Tracker] 329620

>>329400
"I don't think most ponies pick mates by fighting. Usually they pick somepony they really like spending time with."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329644

>>329620
"What's better than a fighter?
Strong, passionate, could do anything for what he believes in… Even move mountains!"

Nock [Tracker] 329648

>>329644
"Okay, let's say Sidus didn't backstab you. Let's say he won fair and square. Would you want him to be your mate?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329650

>>329648
"… If he wasn't so full of himself…"
Yeah, he'd be cool to hang around.
Good thing she can't see me blush.
"But I would definitely want a pony as strong as that! At least as strong as me!"

Nock [Tracker] 329652

>>329650
Laugh. "See? Attitude is everything! No amount of muscles in the world makes up for being cruel and rude. And if you can find someone you love, that's always looking out for you, cares about you, and loves you back in addition to being strong? Well, that makes the strength look like icing."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329653

>>329652
"Yeah right, love."
Give a little neigh.
"That's stuff for sappy books. I stopped reading those when I was a filly!"

Nock [Tracker] 329656

>>329653
"Well, if all you care about is strength, I guess your choices will be much easier than mine…"

Pause a moment.

"I guess you got some good insight today. Do you like any ponies here, Vera? I heard that Star's date tied for first in performance."

Papaver Field [Mage] 329658

>>329656
"Hey I know almost nopony around here! Just you, Star, Jon and Sidus. And between you and Sidus, I'd choose you."

Nock [Tracker] 329668

>>329658
Blush heavily on the other side of the door.

"That's–"

I'm not sure how to respond. I'm relieved that I'm in the shower.

Papaver Field [Mage] 329670

>>329668
"Hey, everything alright in there?"
Wonder what the fuss in her voice is all about.
Climb out of bed and move towards the bathroom door.
"Anything happened?"

Nock [Tracker] 329672

>>329670
"You're just so– so nonchalant!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329674

>>329672
"About what? Not like I'm asking for a duel!"

Nock [Tracker] 329679

>>329674
"Isn't it serious to tell someone you'd like them as a mate where you come from, Vera?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 329680

>>329679
"Uh. No, not really. Not like mates are forever. And not unless you challange them to a duel."
I'm using dm'verse idea of relationship in eaglecrest, one of the countries of the north.
Not that Nock would know it.

Nock [Tracker] 329690

>>329680
"I… see. Okay, then. Don't worry about it."

329700

>>329690
"Wait. Were you thinking…"
Ops.
Spagghettiroll.

Roll #0 3 = 3

Papaver Field [Mage] 329708

>>329700
"Ah- I'm sorry Nock, really, I did not say it to offend you or anything! I barely know anything about it anyway!"
Curl up on the floor.
"That was just. So. Stupid."

Nock [Tracker] 332827

>>329708
>>329708
"It's okay, it was just a misunderstanding. Honestly, it's a relief."

Sylt 332834

>>332827
"Pfff right. That would be too strange. Can mares even go on a date?"
Give off a dismissive tone.

Papaver Field [Mage] 332835

Nock [Tracker] 332838

>>332834
>>332835
"It happens, it would just complicate things. You remember the party parts book. It's even still out there with you!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 332841

>>332838
"That's dating? So wait, you mean Jon and Star are doing that right now?"

Nock [Tracker] 332844

>>332841
"No! That book is just how ponies show they really like each other. It's supposed to feel really good. And you aren't supposed to do it with a stallion you aren't married to. Your parents at least told you were foals come from, right?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 332853

>>332844
"From… Parents?"
Think about this.
"They told me I'd learn it once I found a mate and was old enough."
Think for a moment.
"What does making foals have to do with feeling good?"

Nock [Tracker] 332858

>>332853
Sigh through the door.

"Just… nevermind. Vera, this is a lot to teach a pony. You just asked about dating and it's turned into teaching you about sex and children."

Finally get out of the shower and start to towel myself off.

Papaver Field [Mage] 332866

>>332858
"Well you told me the book was about dating!"
Sound a bit angry at her.
"It's just… I feel so stupid for not knowing all this!"


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