/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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Paladinquest - Thread 7 DM 344961

The march of time is endless
Your destinies await you in the end

Sidus [Rogue] 344967

Star Hopper [Cleric] 344971

>>344961
I think I just bought a nice looking shield?

Papaver Field [Mage] 344972

I had something to engrave on the hoofguard, I think.

DM 344979

>>344967
You left an order for a dagger, and need to heat up the furnace tonight.
Until then, is there something you'd like to do?
>>344971
"So, cadet, I don't really have many intricate shields on hand here, but I suppose I can decorate one for you."
>>344972
That you did.
What did you intend to engrave?

Papaver Field [Mage] 344981

>>344979
"It's kinda embarassing to tell it to a smith I know nothing about…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 344983

>>344979
H-his cutie mark?

DM 344984

>>344983
"His?
…wait, you said this was a personalized shield for you. Are you trying to hide something, cadet?"
>>344981
"Suit yourself.
Do you want to borrow tools or something?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 344985

>>344984
I did not say that out loud dammit! There were no quotes!
"Uh… N-no! J-just kidding!"

DM 344990

>>344985
Few ponies stutter in their thoughts.
The smith smiles and shakes his head
"Look, there is no need to hide it from ol' smithy. I've seen cadets with rosy cheeks and hearts in their eyes before. Heh.
I, too, once loved.
Who's the lucky guy?"

Sidus [Rogue] 344991

>>344979
I don't know.
Maybe accidentally meeting Burning's roommate.

Papaver Field [Mage] 344992

>>344984
Remember my terrible experience with carving back when I tried it on the arrowhead.
"Okay maybe you should do it…
It's a tune. Here."
Show him the music paper with the tune I wrote for the occasion.
"Just the first stanza of course, it's a symbolic think more than anything else."

Nock [Tracker] 344995

Time to head down to the kitchens to see how agreeable the staff will be.

What do I run into?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 344998

>>344990
I gulp
"U-uh… nopony s-special…"

DM 345006

>>344991
As you leave the forge, you see one of the female cadets looking up at Burning's window.
>>344992
He reads it over
"You need to work on your rhymes.
But very well."
He grabs a carving tool
"My writing may be a little messy though. I'm a smith, not a calligrapher."
>>344995
You bump into one of the assistant cooks
"Hey! Cadet! What are you doing here?"
>>344998
"Sure he is. I can hear it from your tone.
Well, no need to say names. What is the mark?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345010

>>345006
I blush and shyly describe his cutie mark

Nock [Tracker] 345012

>>345006
Give him the grin. "I want to practice my family recipe for cake-making! It's been passed down my line, paladin to paladin, for at least six generations! Also I can pay for ingredients."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345015

>>345006
I meant the tune. As in, pentagram and notes.
"Just… One place one line at the end. 'Straight as the arrow you fly.'"
Look away.
"I know about the rhymes, okay? Can't help it, they just seem too cheesy at times!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345019

>>345006
I walk next to her, and look up at it as well with a smirk.
Don't say anything, let's see how she reacts.

DM 345042

>>345015
"Mhm. Very well."
>>345010
"Cute. Come back tomorrow, ok? This may take a little time."
>>345012
"…huh? Cake? Cadet, the kitchen is for kitchen staff and volunteer helpers only."
You can ask for the head chef if you need a trump card.
>>345019
After a while she sighs, looks to the side and recoils back.
"Gah! What is it with everypony sneaking up on me here!?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345047

>>345042
Chuckle as she does.
"I don't know. Ever considered working on your perception?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345054

>>345042
I nod, still blushing, and trot out of there

Uh… Something I could do? Maybe talk to someone?

Nock [Tracker] 345057

>>345042
"Well, I don't want to get in your way, so I won't press. Do you know any good places around Canterlot to cook? I don't want it baked for me. I want to make it myself."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345058

>>345042
Give him a big smile and offer him the hoofguard and song.

DM 345068

>>345047
"Hmp. I don't need glasses.
Anyway, why are you staring up at my window? That's really creepy of you."
>>345054
Anything in particular you'd like to do, or shall I just see what happens?
>>345057
"Not a lot of kitchens I know of beyond ours.
Though if you're up for helping in here, I think we can let you borrow an oven and some bowls.
You know, chop up thing, wash dishes, that sort of work."
>>345058
"Well this will take a while since I also have other work, so check back in a few hours, right?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345072

>>345068
"Not just your eyes. Your ears. And how you feel the presence of someone. And why are you?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345073

>>345068
"T-thank you! Thank you so much!"
But yeah, no needless displays of affection. Stand still with a big grin.
Then, go back and follow Star.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345077

>>345068
Actually, I need to go very soon

Consider me reading in my dorm

Nock [Tracker] 345078

>>345068
Consider it. "Okay, that doesn't sound so bad. I have a lot of experience with kitchens. Where do you need me?"

DM 345088

>>345078
"Well I'll just be blunt with you. We need cadets to do the crap jobs like taking out the garbage and washing dishes so we can focus on making food."
>>345072
"Hmph. I don't need this sort of talk from you. I get enough of it from my roommate.
I'm Springwind, cadet, first year. You?"

Nock [Tracker] 345094

>>345088
"I've done a lot of that, too. Where should I start?"

DM 345100

>>345073
>>345077
Well with star gone, what does Vera need?
>>345094
"Well first go chat with Head Chef Apple. She wants to know her staff."

Sidus [Rogue] 345101

>>345088
"Hey, I'm just trying to help you improve yourself! I'm Sidus, destined hero. Nice to meet you."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345106

>>345100
A chat with Leaf Blade.
I guess he's kind of a friend now.
I should ask him about "…Hearts and Hooves Day."

Nock [Tracker] 345110

>>345100
Well, in the words of the Dark Knight, FIND HER.

"Cadet Nock reporting for kitchen patrol, Head Chef."

DM 345114

>>345101
"Hero, huh? Aren't you a little short for that?"
>>345106
"…what about it? The faculty has banned it for years due to… problems."
>>345110
Adam's Apple turns her considerable frame around
"A new volunteer hm?"

Nock [Tracker] 345117

>>345114
"Yes'm. How can I serve?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345118

>>345114
"I guess. A friend of mine assured me I should not have this problem thou. So I tried to think of a gift and came up with a song.
Do you think it's going to be enough?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345126

>>345114
"Hey! Do you think height matters? It does not. All that matters is skill."

DM 345140

>>345117
"Well cadet, good to have you.
You can start by taking out the trash. Just empty the, bins into the big one out back."
>>345118
"Well I wouldn't mind a hug on top."
>>345126
She looks you over
"Sure thing hotshot."

Sidus [Rogue] 345143

>>345140
I cock an eyebrow.
"Are you doubting me?"

345146

>>345140
Salute and be off. That doesn't sound too hard…

Roll #1 7 = 7

Papaver Field [Mage] 345148

>>345140
Roll my eyes at him.
"I bet she'd beat you up just for trying."

DM 345162

>>345143
"Maaaaybe?"
>>345146
You grab the bins and haul them outside.
You also catch a glimpse of somepony snooping around the back of the main building.
>>345148
"…she?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345166

>>345162
"Is that a challenge?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345167

>>345162
Cock my head.
"What?"

DM 345173

>>345166
"No, not really.
But seriously, why are you staring at my window?"
>>345167
"Well it seemed a little unexpected."

Sidus [Rogue] 345176

>>345173
"I don't know. You were doing it too so I guess I'd joing. See if it's anything interesting."
Smirk at her.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345177

Lessee… I had just had an argument with Nock, and needed to hit something. SO I guess I wandered out to the training fields to hit a ponnequin. Unless there's another student I could spar with? '1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

345180

>>345162
Who's that?

Roll #1 5 = 5

DM 345181

>>345177
In anger you lash out.
A crack later, a very angry battlemaster stares you in the eye
"CADET APPLE! YOU HAVE EXACTLY THREE SECONDS TO EXPLAIN WHY YOU ARE RANDOMLY PUNCHING PONIES IN THE JAW!"
>>345176
"Well, for one, I live there. You don't."
>>345180
Looked like a second year student's outfit…

Sidus [Rogue] 345185

>>345181
"That's true. Why are you staring at your own window though?"

Nock [Tracker] 345186

>>345181
Hopefully it wasn't that guy that Papaver was talking about. I guess he got away, so I'll never know, though.

Continue doing my grunt work.

I have to go for a couple hours.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345187

>>345181
I'll snap to attention.
"I was temporarily blinded by anger and thought he was a ponnequin, sir!"
Looking at the decked pony, I'll apologize.
"I'm sorry, really, I didn't mean to… sorry."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345188

>>345173
"Unexpected? Wouldn't know, I have little idea about equestrian mating traditions."

DM 345192

>>345186
Right. See ya.
>>345185
"I was wondering how hard it really was to climb in and out of it."
>>345187
The cadet gets up
"Ow… It's.. nothing really I…"
A tooth falls out
The Battlemaster looks just as angry
>>345188
"Did you say you were from someplace else?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345193

>>345192
"No I am not but… I lived with my parents the whole time, never met anypony else before coming to the academy.
And they taught me about the way of our people, from Eaglecrest, a land in the north."

Sidus [Rogue] 345196

>>345192
"Why? Lost your key?"

DM 345199

>>345196
"No, my roommate just seems to climb in as often as she walks in."
>>345193
"Oh, Eaglecrest? I remember reading about that place. A culture of strength and individuality, right?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345201

>>345199
I chuckle.
That's her.
"Why would she do that?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345202

>>345192
I'll just sit and hang my head.
"I'm really sorry."
Looking to the battlemaster, I'll keep my head hung low.
"I take it there's some form of punishment for attacking students?"

DM 345206

>>345201
"Beats me. Cadet Heart is one weird pony."
>>345202
"Well for one it sure as hell won't make you look good in my eyes.
Please escort the cadet to the nurse, and explain the situation.
Then report back to me and tell me what punishment you feel is suitable for yourself."

Sidus [Rogue] 345208

>>345206
"Is she? What can you tell me about her?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345209

>>345206
I'll nod.
"Yes sir."
Getting up, I'll accompany the cadet to the nurse.

DM 345212

>>345208
"She's quiet for one. Never talks much. Likes to do things without me knowing.
Of course over time I learned to keep a better eye on her. For better… or worse."
>>345209
He walks along
"Was that really an accident or…
…did Gold Platter send you after me?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345213

>>345199
"Sort of. And she's so strong, too…
But when she told me mates are forever, I was kinda thrown off."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345215

>>345212
"Who?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345218

>>345212
"Keep an eye on her? What for?"

DM 345221

>>345213
"Well, that's Equestria for you. Many ponies look down on one night stands."
>>345215
"Well that's a relief…
…do you really care about it?"
>>345218
"To make sure sure she wasn't doing anything disallowed.
Though it seems my concerns were baseless for the most part."

Sidus [Rogue] 345222

>>345221
"Mhmm. Why what was she doing? And you two don't talk too much then?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345225

>>345221
I'll nod a bit.
"If it can help make up for just hauling off on you like that, I don't see the harm in helping you with it."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345227

>>345221
"Yeah. Went over that long ago.
And now it's our first Heart and Hooves Day, so I don't know if what I've done is enough!"

DM 345232

>>345222
"I tried to talk to her more when we first met, but she seems like something of a shut-in so I just let her be.
As for what she was doing, I think she just liked to take late night walks.
And well… yeah, lets no go into other details."
>>345225
"Well, Gold Platter is one of the cadets here. I kinda owe him a big favor and he really is asking for way too much, and things have kinda gotten difficult by now."
>>345227
"Well what matters is that you put your heart into the gift.
…and that nopony finds out about you doing it."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345234

>>345232
"Uh? Isnt' it just a problem when it's a mare and a stallion?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345235

>>345232
"Well, what's he asking you for?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345238

>>345232
I raise an eyebrow.
"Mmhm, and why not?"

DM 345239

>>345234
"And you don't think the stallions will get upset if you go and flaunt your celebration openly?
The entire celebration is banned. That was the deal."
>>345235
"I should help him cheat."
>>345238
"Because I doubt she wants me talking about her private stuff."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345241

>>345239
I'll raise an eyebrow.
"Cheat at what? Tests?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345243

>>345239
"You already are, though."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345246

>>345239
Roll my eyes.
"Not like I plan to run around shouting about it."
Trot around, then look at him with a worried look.
"You think we should probably just do something in private?"

DM 345248

>>345241
"Among other things.
At first it was just about me taking a fall for him in a weapon exam so he'd get full points.
But now he wants more and got angry after I refused."
>>345243
"And I'm stopping now."
>>345246
"That's what most do.
Hide somewhere, get cozy, have a good time, never speak of it openly."

345251

>>345227
I have about 15 minutes while dinner is cooking

While I'm alone, maybe I could work on that book of mine…

How about a title? That would be a start… Patterns in the Sky: A modern guide to asterisms and constellations

That sounds good! Start writing an intro! Rolling to see how much inspiration I have for it

Roll #1 8 = 8

Papaver Field [Mage] 345253

>>345248
"You do it too?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345254

>>345248
"But now you made me curious. Is she doing something that's not allowed?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345255

>>345248
I'll frown.
"You shouldn't have given him the first inch. Why'd you do it, anyway?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345256

>>345251
Seems like plenty to me! In that case, I'll just spend my time writing as much as I can while I have the means to!

'1d10' to see how much I get done

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 345258

>>345253
"Never had anypony here to do it with."
>>345254
She blushes a little
"Well I doubt there are rules against it."
>>345255
"Well, he helped me out of some big trouble earlier."
>>345256
Wow, that's a REALLY good start.
The words seem to flow right out of you.
Indeed you get a good chunk of the intro done.

Sidus [Rogue] 345259

>>345258
I nod again.
"Then what's the problem?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345260

>>345258
"What sort of trouble? I'd like to know the whole story, if you don't mind."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345261

>>345258
"Not even Balsawood? You said you two were close, once."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345264

>>345258
Oh this is great! Maybe I'll have it finished and done by next year!

I squee in excitement once I feel I've written enough and neatly put all of my materials away.
Everypony is busy so… maybe I can go check out the medical wing of the academy? Search for ponies that know a lot about healing magic?

DM 345267

>>345259
"It isn't something I want to talk to strangers about!"
>>345260
"Well… it involves a mare I like."
>>345261
"Not close like THAT!"
>>345264
Jon seems to be on his way there too.
You may run into him if you want.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345269

>>345267
Sure!
"J-Jon! You're here t-too!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345271

>>345267
"We can be friends then."
Smirk at her.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345273

>>345267
I'll roll my eyes.
"We're both colts here. And we both have mares we like. So spill it. You don't have to name names."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345275

>>345267
"Oh. Yeah it would be strange, I mean, you don't even talk to each other anymore."
Toy around with my catalyst.
"So, anything will be enough, uh?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345276

>>345269
I'll start a little bit.
"Star, hi!"

DM 345277

>>345271
"Look, hotshot, I think it takes a little more than just a few words to really become friends."
>>345275
"So long as it comes from here"
He pokes your chest

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345280

>>345276
"Are you g-going to look at the c-clinic as well?"
I look at the other student with him
"Oh… h-hi, I didn't see you t-there…"

345281

>>345277
Smile at him.
"Yeah. This might work. Thanks Leaf."
Hug him.

Roll #1 2 = 2

Sidus [Rogue] 345282

>>345277
"I guess it does. It's okay if you don't want to talk about it then. As long as she doesn't do anything naughty you managed to spy on, there's no harm no foul, right?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345284

>>345280
"Something like that. I, uh, got into a bit of an argument with Nock, and kinda thought this guy was a ponnequin for a second."
I'll realize something.
"I never got your name, did I?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345287

>>345284
"O-oh…"
I droop my ears
"Y-you fought with N-nock?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345290

>>345287
I'll shrug.
"Less fought, and more argued. I honestly don't see what Vera sees in her."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345291

>>345290
I awkwardly fidget my hooves
"I-I think she's nice… I d-don't agree with h-her views on magic b-but… I still she's a friend…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345294

>>345291
"Well, her views on magic are what I was arguing with her about."
I'll shake my head.
"You know, she doesn't even want to-"
Then I'll remember we're not alone.
"Sorry, we'll have to have this talk later, Star. I have to get this cadet to the nurse to take care of a knocked tooth."

DM 345300

>>345281
It gets a little awkward…
"Um Vera…
You said your culture didn't look down on… short lived relationships… right?"
>>345282
"It's not so much what I saw as what I heard."

Sidus [Rogue] 345301

>>345300
"Okay, now you have to tell me. She was chanting unholy things?"

DM 345302

>>345301
She rolls her eyes
"You're kinda slow in the head aren't you hotshot?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345303

>>345294
I nod
"Okay…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345304

>>345300
But we are friends since months!
"Yeah, my parents probably wouldn't care. They stuck together just for convenience."

Sidus [Rogue] 345306

>>345302
"Maybe I am, maybe I'm just messing with you. Now, come on, don't leave me hanging, what did you hear? I can keep a secret."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345307

>>345303
"You could come with us to the Nurse, though. Seems like you were headed that way."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345309

>>345307
"I w-was just going to l-look around a little to see how stuff works h-here…"

DM 345310

>>345304
Well all this talk about heart and hooves has gotten him a little worked up.
"Would… you care?"
>>345306
She looks away, face red.
"N-not your business! She'd get mad if I said!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345311

>>345309
I'll nod.
"Well, no better time than when they've got a patient."
Have we made it to the infirmary yet? I had assumed we were walking while talking.

Sidus [Rogue] 345312

>>345310
"She won't even know you said it! It can't be that bad!"

DM 345313

>>345311
Welcome there.
The cadet turns to you
"Um… I'll… just go now I guess. No hard feelings, right?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345314

>>345313
"I do still owe you, though, and I might be able to help you with your problem. That should square us, right?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345315

>>345310
"Wait you mean…"
Nope, pull back.
"Yes! She would! And I would! That's been the first thing I've promised her!"

DM 345316

>>345314
"That'd be… kind of you."
>>345315
"Oh.
…sorry."

Sidus [Rogue] 345317

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345318

>>345316
"And I still didn't get your name. Mine's Jonagold, by the way."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345319

>>345316
"Nothing's happened. After all, you didn't even try to duel me, so we are good."

DM 345320

>>345312
She grits her teeth
"You should already have figured it out by now anyway!"
>>345318
"Good to meet you Jonagold. I'm Tinmint."
>>345319
"Oh right, that's how it works in Eaglecrest, right?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345321

>>345320
"Kind of. After all, it's about how strong your mate is.
Or at least, it was, until I met her."

Sidus [Rogue] 345322

>>345320
"She was singing under the shower?~"

DM 345323

>>345322
She groans
"You are unbelievable…"
>>345321
"Is that why you don't really consider me an option? Because I'm just some weak mage?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345324

>>345320
"Nice to meet you, Tinmint. Sorry about the first impression, though."
I'll give a small laugh.
"If you're fine here, I'll report back to the battlemaster for my penance."

DM 345325

>>345324
"Yeah, I'm good.
Don't be too hard on yourself, ok?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345326

>>345323
"Or maybe because I've her already." Give him a big smile.

DM 345327

>>345326
"I thought folk from Eaglecrest didn't really… ah forget it. I don't want to ruin out friendship by pushing my luck."

Sidus [Rogue] 345328

>>345323
"Did I get it? I know, I'm that good."
Smirk at her slyly.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345329

>>345325
I'll give a small smile.
"I'll try not to be."
And with that, I'll head back to the training fields to find the battlemaster.

DM 345330

>>345328
"Not. Even. Close."
>>345329
He is in his office.
"Well, cadet Apple. What is your verdict?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345331

>>345327
"I told you. First thing she had me promise was never to leave her."
Smile.
"I think she's trying to teach me about relationships."
Trot alongside Leaf.
"You know, we should find you a mare."

Sidus [Rogue] 345332

>>345330
"Oh, you just don't want to admit defeat, do you?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345334

>>345330
"After talking with Cadet Tinmint, it seems he thought I was actually sent there to rough him up. So I'm going to help him with that problem to make it up to him."
I'll swallow slightly.
"However, I know what I did warrants more than just a strong scolding from you, since getting that angry is not how a paladin should act."
I'll hang my head.
"I will admit I don't quite know how I should go about making it up to you, sir."

DM 345336

>>345331
"Nah. Not really.
You know the rules around here.
We're here to become Paladins, not to start families."
>>345332
"And you just keep on teasing and teasing me!"
>>345334
"Then consider the first part of this punishment to be a negative mark on your record for not knowing how to punish yourself for your ill deeds.
It is a strength of oneself to know when one has done wrong, and how one would best repay it. It is a great weakness to punish oneself too little. Or too much.
Now tell me about this problem."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345337

>>345336
Nod.
"You are right.
I might be slacking off my training for this hearth and hooves thing!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345338

>>345336
"You are the one keeping me in the dark!"

DM 345339

>>345337
"How is your training going anyway?
More comfortable with your swords yet?"
>>345338
"I was trying to give you the damn hint! Why are you not taking it you dense fool!?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345341

>>345339
"Oh.. Yeah! I love my greatsword! Been with me since my first day here at the academy!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345342

>>345339
I shrug.
"I was always a pony who was straightforward and to the point."

DM 345345

>>345341
"And the magic ones?"
>>345342
"More like a pony who won't get what is begin said to them unless it's said as clearly as possible."

Sidus [Rogue] 345346

>>345345
"Why don't you say it clearly then and spare us both the trouble?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345347

>>345336
"I did not manage to get the full story, sir, though I did ask. However, it seems cadet Golden Platter is putting pressure on Tinmint to help him in certain ways in his classes in repayment for a single favor. The first was taking a fall during the weapons exam so Platter would get full marks. It seems this wasn't enough, so Tinmint is being pressured to help Platter further."
I'll mull it over a second.
"Until I get further details about the original deal from Tinmint, I won't have all the information I need to help him properly in the matter, since if I just go beat on Platter for this, Tinmint will likely get beaten himself."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345348

>>345345
Shrugh and look away.

DM 345349

>>345346
"Because it isn't a thing you're supposed to talk about openly! It's private!"
>>345347
"Beat?
No, that is not how one acts here.
Though I am invalidating all his marks on weapon training and putting him on watch for expulsion. Cheating is not something I accept
Now you go and find out what Tinmint's side to all this is so I can judge him as well."
>>345348
"Hey! Don't be like that to me…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345350

>>345349
"It's late. I should go take the hoofguard back."

Sidus [Rogue] 345351

>>345349
Lean closer and turn my head, then motion with a hoof.
"Whisper then."

DM 345352

>>345350
"C'mon Vera. Please?"
>>345351
She get blushy again
"Why do you care so damn much about what my roommate does?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345353

>>345352
"What? There's nothing to talk about, seriously."

Sidus [Rogue] 345354

>>345352
"I'm just curious."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345355

>>345349
I'll nod.
"Yessir."
And then I'll make my way back to the infirmary. Is Tinmint still there? '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

DM 345357

>>345353
"Look surely you can at least say how they feel.
I think I deserve that much out of you."'
>>345354
"So you just randomly go and ask about mares to sate idle curiosity?
That's more than creepy."
>>345355
Yes. He is just exiting
"Jonagold! Hey! I got the tooth fixed!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345358

>>345357
"Or maybe I have a reason. Maybe I am an offical from the Academy who pretends to be a student."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345360

>>345357
"Hey don't say that! It's not you! I just don't like to talk about it, okay?"
Then mumble something.
"Theyfeelgreatbytheway."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345361

>>345357
I'll smile about that.
"Good to hear."
No sense wasting time on this.
"So, about that favor you owed Platter. How, exactly, did you come to be in that position?"

345362

Right! The medical wing! Exciting!

Start looking around at their equipment and stuff!

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 345364

>>345358
She rolls her eyes
"If you were I'd report you for indecent conduct by now, hotshot.
So what, you want to stand around here playing verbal tennis all day or?"
>>345360
He chuckles a little
"Look, Vera, it's ok. I'm not going to judge you. I'd just be really, really happy if you opened up a bit about it.
You really did impress me you know."
>>345361
He looks around
"W-why do you ask?"
>>345362
One of the nurses comes by
"Can I help with something?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345365

>>345364
"Well, if you want me to help you with it, I've got to know the whole story. From the top. Like I said earlier, you don't have to name names."

Sidus [Rogue] 345366

>>345364
"I still got a bit of time to pass. Am I bothering you?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345367

>>345364
"It's not that.
You are a great friend, Leaf. I just… Nock doesn't like when I talk about magic. I don't like magic either so… We kinda agreed never to talk about it outside class."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345370

>>345364
I jump up in surprise
"U-uh… just looking around, m-miss nurse…"

DM 345374

>>345365
"Well… there was this one mare I really liked here.
And well… I had some trouble with that, since it turned out she already, well, had someone, and…"
he sighs
"Long story short, Gold Platter helped me break them up by exposing the relationship to the faculty, and I hopped in at the right time to get her for myself, in secret of course.
And when he found out, Gold helped me get him expelled.
So now I owe him big time, and he can ruin me if I don't obey."
>>345366
"Well you are asking terribly private things! Not like I go around asking you how you like to amuse yourself on lonely nights!"
>>345367
"Well that's incredibly stupid."
>>345370
"Oh? Are you interested in medicine by chance?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345376

>>345374
Frown at him and turn around.
"Yeah whatever. I told you I didn't want to talk."

Sidus [Rogue] 345377

>>345374
"So that's what she was doing!"
I let out a chuckle.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345378

>>345374
I'll just stare at him.
'1d10' not to just hit him on principle.

Roll #1 9 = 9

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345380

>>345374
>>345378
I'll sigh.
"That's…"
Sitting down, I'll sigh again.
"You… How did you think that was any way for a paladin to act?"

DM 345382

>>345376
"Vera, I really hoped you were bigger than this.
I'm not trying to offend you. I'm just trying to get you to understand this is not a thing you need to be so ashamed of!"
>>345378
>>345380
"Well… no… not really.
But then… I'm only a cadet."
>>345377
She buries her face in her hooves
"You… you…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345385

>>345382
"I'm not! I just don't like to talk about it! And yeah, if you want to know it so much, the swords feel nice. They feel perfect, actually. I still won't use them."

Sidus [Rogue] 345386

>>345382
"Gotcha'!"
Laugh a bit more.
"Oh, that was fun, you've got to admit."+

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345387

>>345382
I'll shake my head.
"Actions form habits, Tinmint. Are you and that mare still together?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345390

>>345374
I nod shyly
"Y-yes… my cutie mark s-says so at least…"

DM 345393

>>345386
"Grr…
You really are a piece of work."
>>345385
He sighs and shakes his head, then conjures one and looks at it idly
"And here I hoped I would have found some help in you."
>>345387
"…yeah?"
>>345390
"Have you considered taking extracurricular work here?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345395

>>345393
"You could stop me during a magic class."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345397

>>345393
"Does she know?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345398

>>345393
"I know, it's all true!"
Flash a pose.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345399

>>345393
"Oh… I-I can do that? Really?"

DM 345404

>>345395
"Look…
…look just forget it then. Be that way. Be stubborn and insecure and tied to your roots so hard you can't even see two hooves ahead of your own nose.
I wanted to look up to you Vera. I wanted to see you realize all that potential in you. I wanted to learn from you.
But if you aren't even willing to talk about it outside mandatory class times, well, I can tell you've already given up on ever trying to do anything more than the bare minimum to get a passing grade."
>>345397
"Kinda…"
>>345398
She tries to push you over as you strike it
'1d10'
>>345399
"Of course.
Many students do."

Roll #1 3 = 3

Papaver Field [Mage] 345406

>>345404
Well now I feel like shit.
"It's just… She doesn't like it."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345407

>>345404
"So no, she doesn't know. Not the whole story, anyway. What, exactly, did you and Platter frame that colt for that got him expelled, anyway?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345410

>>345404
"Ah-ah-aaah, no touching!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345412

>>345404
"Well… s-sure I do! I l-love helping ponies!"
I smile excitedly

DM 345419

>>345410
She then tries to mockingly blow you over
'1d10'
>>345406
"And I care because…?"
>>345407
"We simply explained he is a threat to the students… and… well I don't know what exactly Gold said."
>>345412
"So, any previous medical experience?"

Roll #1 9 = 9

Sidus [Rogue] 345422

>>345419
Escape Artist, get my balance back before I fall or anything!
Clever use of game mechanics?

Papaver Field [Mage] 345423

>>345419
"Because you should be my friend, and this makes me feel bad?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345424

>>345422
That's monkey agility, not EA.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345427

>>345419
I nod
"Y-yeah uh… I-I used to help out with stuff at the l-local clinic where d-dad worked…"

DM 345428

>>345422
That's not how Escape Artist works
You can roll against it though to stay standing. +2 because seriously, she is just blowing air at you.
>>345423
"Papaver Field! Stop being such a damn martyr about this! You need to take a stand, and realize you cannot live your life according to the demands and whims of others!
Look at your flank if you need proof! had you not taken that step beyond what limits others had set for you, you would never have found your own destiny!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345429

>>345419
I'll rub the spot between my eyes for a moment.
"So, you and Platter cooked up a plan to not only break apart a couple, but then expel the colt once he, quite rightfully, found you out and got angry?"
I'll sigh again.
"So Platter's been blackmailing you since then, huh? He'd never expect you to come forward to the Battlemaster, or any of the faculty and, in the act befitting a paladin, take responsibility for what you've done?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345430

>>345428
Oh, okay
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

Papaver Field [Mage] 345432

>>345428
"It's just a damn mark on my flank, not my destiny! I lived so long without it, I can just ignore it!"

DM 345437

>>345430
Yes, blowing a pony over is not something that usually works
"Well at least you aren't a complete featherweight. Just a showoff."
>>345427
"Great! Then you won't need to be taught the basics.
Ever worked on patients?"
>>345429
"Heck if I know. I was ok with just hiding the facts and living life."
>>345432
"Conjure a sword and hold it, then tell me it is not your destiny.
Do it."

345439

>>345437

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 345442

>>345437
"Still worked. Sidus 2, Springwind 0!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345445

>>345437
I nod again
"Y-yes I have…"

DM 345450

>>345445
"And how was it? Care to tell a little more?"
>>345442
"Don't make me punch you."
>>345439
You sit upon your calm pond in the flow of magic.
The serene garden you have built for yourself.
You know it.
You care for it.
And it serves you obediently.
Then, with a thundering roar, the very tidal wave of power that first gave you your cutie mark returns. It slams into you, sweeping you along for a wild ride, washing away every semblance of calm in your magical place of self-discovery.
Somewhere outside this domain, you can hear the panicked shouting of a stallion.
But that is elsewhere.
This is your realm.
And it is under siege. From within.
And you must now calm it. And master this storm.
BOSS: THE STORM OF MAGIC
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C8cy3oyakA

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345452

>>345450
I gulp
"I-it… uh… I j-just took care of stuff like scrapes, cuts and b-bruises… S-sometimes I had to help out w-with more complicated stuff l-like fractures and larger w-wounds too…"

Sidus [Rogue] 345453

>>345450
"Now, now, that wouldn't be very Paladinlike, now would it?"

345455

>>345450
But it should be my realm! I can make it stop, I can change it to my wish!
I should be able to, at least…
Contain the tide. Build a wall at my sides.
First, raise myself above the storm. A column of white marble will cut the wave open as it slowly comes into existance under my hooves.
Raise, and see the devastation magic has brought upon me.

Roll #1 2 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345457

>>345437
"Would you rather live life on your own terms, or constantly blackmailed by Platter for something he can easily pin on you if he's having a bad day?"

DM 345464

>>345453
"Nor very ladylike.
Which is why I will forgive you for being an annoying blowhard.
Forgiveness is a virtue after all."
>>345452
"Want to come sit down and chat a little more?"
>>345457
"I don't think I can really get off with less than outright expulsion…"
>>345455
Your creations are only as strong as your will.
Your control of this realm is only as mighty as your desire to master it.
And fearing it only makes the chaos worse.
Your marble wall is torn asunder like a bank of fresh snow.
Somewhere in the madness, you hear something break and shatter.

345466

>>345464
Nock was right. Magic is dangerous. I should have never done this outside of class. Never.

Send a shock through this world. A signal for it to calm down. Shut my eyes and grit my teeth, think of me surrounded by the calm flow of the river I'm used to, not this rabid madness I'm drowning in!

Roll #1 10 = 10

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345470

>>345464
I nod
"S-sure! I mean… i-if you don't have anything to do yourself."

Sidus [Rogue] 345471

>>345464
"I'd pat you on the head for being a good student but she might get jealous."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345472

>>345464
"You might. Part of my punishment for hitting you was supposed to come up with how I am supposed to make it right to the academy. Since I couldn't come up with anything, the Battlemaster told me that a paladin has to know when he has done something wrong, and it is a weakness of character to punish oneself too little, or too much. Maybe, in your case, a complete restart might work. Tell the mare the whole truth, all of it, and accept what she does to you. Tell the Battlemaster everything. You might be able to stay, and who knows, maybe one day the mare will forgive you? Nopony can really say."

DM 345479

>>345466
And in a controlled burst, the raging storm calms down, returning to the river you know.
It seems apologetic. Like it never wanted to hurt you.
>>345470
"I always have time for cadets. Do come in and take a seat."
>>345471
"She?"
>>345472
he looks away
"I feared this day would come…
And I bet you'll just tell him if I don't."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345480

>>345479
I smile slightly and do as told
How does the place look?

345483

>>345479
Nock was right all along.
Get out of here, out of my mind, out of my thoughts. Now.

Roll #1 8 = 8

Sidus [Rogue] 345485

>>345479
I nod.
"Yup. She."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345487

>>345479
I'll nod a little.
"This isn't just a small problem anymore. But…" I'll give Tinmint a small smile. "The Battlemaster would probably take it better if you told him the truth yourself, instead of me telling him."

DM 345490

>>345480
Clean and sterile.
Lots of anatomical charts, salves and tools line the walls.
>>345483
As you snap out of it, you can see about a dozen swords embedded on the floor, with Leaf panting, eyes wide with fear, holding his own sword
"Finally! I said you proved your point after the first three!"
>>345485
"…and who is she?"
>>345487
He sighs
"You're asking me to throw my current life away."

Sidus [Rogue] 345492

>>345490
"Who is?"

345493

>>345490
Time to see if I don't break into sobs for almost killing him.

Roll #1 9 = 9

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345495

>>345490
I look around the place in wonder for a while

Papaver Field [Mage] 345497

>>345493
>>345490
I'm a stronk mare. Always been.
"Do you see it!? I lost control, it ate me! In a single damn wave it came crashing down on me! And then I didn't even know where I was anymore and couldn't stop and-"

DM 345500

>>345492
She pokes you angrily
"Stop your stupid games!"
>>345493
"That was incredible.
Scary, yes, but incredible. I never knew that was even possible!"
>>345497
"Okay slow down Vera.
…wave?"
>>345495
SO much stuff~
You could probably learn new things bu just reading all the stuff on the walls, let alone the books.
A rest ward is off to the side, and they even have an operating room.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345501

>>345490
"I'm asking you to take responsibility for your actions."
I'll sigh a bit.
"I know it'll be hard. Probably the hardest thing you'll ever do. But when has doing the right thing ever been easy?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345504

>>345500
"It was horrible! I was almost drowning, pushed around everywhere!"
Realize something.
"I didn't hurt you, did I?"
Run over and check on him.
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345505

>>345500
Take a peek in there!

Sidus [Rogue] 345506

>>345500
I grin again.
"What games?"

DM 345510

>>345504
He did defend himself fairly well, but there are some wounds here and there.
"Not mortally, no…"
>>345506
She throws up her hooves
"Fuck it, I'm done."
She then turns to leave
"And stop trying to peek up my window."
>>345505
The operating room is pretty small
"We only use that for absolute emergencies. So hardly ever."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345513

>>345510
"I knew it…"
Bite my lips and fight back the tears.
Then, help him up.
"We are going to the infermery. Now."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345515

>>345510
Still interesting!
"R-right… of course."

Sidus [Rogue] 345520

>>345510
I chuckle again.
"What if I was peeking at her window?"

DM 345524

>>345513
He floats his sword up in front of you
"First tell me…
…if you see magic like a flowing stream. A river. A wave.
…do you know how to command it now?"
>>345515
"Sadly not really as well equipped as the one at the Medical Academy."
>>345520
"Wait…"
She turns around
"…you're…"
She then falls over laughing

Papaver Field [Mage] 345525

>>345524
Groan and tug at his hoof.
"It's not the time now! Look at yourself, covered in cuts!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345528

>>345524
I jump up in surprise
"Y-you've been there!?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345529

DM 345532

>>345525
"I need to know Vera!
Please…"
>>345501
"I know.
…well, I guess it's time for me to face myself then. Now I'm under fire from both sides, you and Gold.
I guess by going with your deal I can at least bring him down with me…"
>>345528
"I studied there, but was assigned to work here, and later picked up the title of Paladin as part of my work."

Sidus [Rogue] 345533

>>345524
"Clever girl. Took you long enough though."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345536

>>345532
I look at her in amazement
"Wow…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345538

>>345532
Let go of him and take a step back.
"Look I… I don't even know. It's all just magic theory stuff to me.
All I know is that a second I was here, another I was inside myself, where I first felt that magic, and then a tidal wave swept me away.
And as i tried to rebuild order it just kept destroying until… Until I just said stop and everything came back to normal."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345539

>>345532
"Hey, don't look at it like it's the end of everything. It's not guaranteed you'll get expelled if you come forward yourself. The Battlemaster might let you go with starting over from the beginning.
"Besides, I'll be there if you want me to be."

DM 345540

>>345533
"Eheheheheeoh man… THIS is the highly revered Honeybunny? HAHAHAHAHHAHA!"
>>345536
"Really it's nothing. I'm just a nurse…"
>>345538
"Then… we still have some road ahead of us."
He gets up and lets his sword disappear.
"My magic looks like wind to me."
>>345539
"Hrm.
Suit yourself. I might as well go right now."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345541

>>345540
"Damnit Leaf! You saw it right now! My magic is dangerous!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345543

>>345540
I'll nod.
"Well, the Battlemaster's in his office."

Sidus [Rogue] 345544

>>345540
I pause for a second.
"Come again?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345547

>>345540
I shake my head
"N-no! That's r-really uh… cool!"

Nock [Tracker] 345548

Where am I?

DM 345550

>>345541
"Only when it gets wild. A sword out of your control is just as dangerous as a spell out of control. Everything you do not know how to wield right is dangerous.
I'm here to help you learn to control it. To master it. To make it safe for you and your allies."
>>345543
He groans
"lead the way then…"
>>345544
She tries to stop laughing
'1d10'
>>345547
"Well the doctor himself is much more impressive. He used to be a frontline medic once."
>>345548
You were taking out trash and saw someone snooping around.

Roll #1 4 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345553

>>345550
And then we hit the Battlemaster's office. I'll knock.
"Cadet Apple with Cadet Tinmint, sir."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345554

>>345550
Curl up in a ball on the floor.
"Do I really have to?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345555

>>345550
I gasp
"T-that's… wow… he must be r-really brave…"

Nock [Tracker] 345557

>>345550
Right, right. I'll return to the Head Chef and mention it as I ask for my next assignment.

Sidus [Rogue] 345561

>>345550
"Hey, you can stop that now and answer!"

DM 345567

>>345553
"Enter.
What news?"
>>345554
He lefts your head
"Look at me Vera.
Look at me as a friend.
I cannot force you. But I will say this. If you don't, you only betray yourself. Yourself, and those who place faith in you."
>>345555
"I hear he served in more than a few battles. I bet you didn't even notice his other back hoof is fake."
>>345557
"Snoopers? Well ain't that something.
Anywho, probably nothing that concerns me.
If ya wanna help more, go ask the dish washers if they need a hoof."
>>345561
She is still snickering and wiping away tears
"It's really the best thing she has ever called you.
It's just ~adorable~
Fits you fucking perfectly too."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345572

>>345567
My eyes widen
"N-no… not at all…"

Sidus [Rogue] 345574

>>345567
"I'm almost afraid to ask what were the others."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345575

>>345567
"Cadet Tinmint would like to speak with you, sir. At length."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345576

>>345567
"Do… Do we have to start now? I would like to talk about this with her first…"

Nock [Tracker] 345579

>>345567
To the dishwashers, then. Scrub, scrub, scrub.

[1d10]

Roll #1 4 = 4

Nock [Tracker] 345580

>>345579
[1d10]

That doesn't look clean.

Roll #1 2 = 2

Nock [Tracker] 345582

>>345580
[1d10]

That looks even worse.

Roll #1 1 = 1

Nock [Tracker] 345585

>>345582
Maybe I should put those down.

DM 345591

>>345572
"He took a sword right through it. Had to get the entire hoof removed.
He kept the sword though. He said he had grown attached to it after walking with it through his hoof for a few miles."
>>345574
"Oh I can assure you they are just lovely, Honeybunny."
>>345575
"Well, Cadet. Out with it."
"Battlemaster.
You may remember some months back… the thing with Cadets Ironspark and Flowing Banner. Well… truth be told, I had a hoof in that.
For you see, I had my eye on Cadet Banner.
And well, I arranged for Ironspark to be expelled.
And… now… Golden platter, my accomplice, has pressured me into repaying him by helping him cheat.
Sir."
The battlemaster looks entirely calm.
Then his hoof cracks the table a little by pressing into it
Tinmint looks terrified.
>>345579
>>345580
>>345582
>>345585
You ended up getting in the way, mixing up clean and dirty dishes, getting your uniform wet, hooves pruned, mane soaked and one of the dishwashers almost drowned.
>>345576
"Well, if she says never to use magic again, and you agree, then you can forget talking to me again.
Seeing someone like you waste their potential because of the fears of those who lack better judgement and deeper understanding sickens me."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345593

>>345591
I gulp, still looking at her with wide eyes
"O-oh dear. T-that's awful!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345595

>>345591
I'll wince a little, but keep my mouth shut.

Sidus [Rogue] 345599

>>345591
"Stop calling me that! For you, I am Sidus!"

Nock [Tracker] 345600

>>345591
Can I just

Do the dishes without rolling?

Papaver Field [Mage] 345603

>>345591
"But she means everything to me… I've lost my family already.
What happens if I lose her too?"

DM 345619

>>345600
You can.
But that won't fix any of the past problems.
At the end of it, you are soaked, cold and one of the dishwashers is quite angry at you.
>>345593
"He took it with stride. It's among his favourite stories to tell."
>>345599
"How about I call you Prince Charming instead? HA!"
>>345603
"Are you here to become a paladin, or are you here to start a damn family?
If your friends will abandon you for finding your destiny, they never were very good friends to begin with.
And if you are more concerned with having a family than being a good paladin, I suggest you resign from the academy."
>>345595
"S-sir?"
"Tinmint."
Tinmint winces.
"I… I understand… sir…"
"Get the hell out of my sight."

Nock [Tracker] 345626

>>345619
I can put up with all of those things. Return to Adam's Apple.

"What next, ma'am? I'm ready to help."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345627

>>345619
I'll give Tinmint an apologetic look, but remain where I am. The Battlemaster didn't dismiss me, after all.

Sidus [Rogue] 345629

>>345619
"Hey, it's not my fault I have that effect on ponies!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345631

>>345619
"Oh… he sounds like h-he knows a lot of stories…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345632

>>345619
Look at him with a sad expression.
"It hurts because you are right…"
Stand up.
"I think… You should get looked at."

DM 345634

>>345627
"Cadet Apple."
>>345626
"Great sun and stars girl! What happened?"
>>345629
She gives you an incredulous smile
"As if. For one, you couldn't charm me even if I let you."
>>345631
"He's full of them. Old war tales mostly."
>>345632
"Yeah, I probably should.
You feeling ok?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345636

>>345634
"Sir."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345637

>>345634
"If a bit shaken..
Want help there?"

DM 345639

>>345636
"Do you know a proper punishment for yourself yet?"
>>345637
"I can manage. You go to your special lady, and settle this thing."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345640

>>345634
"My f-friends would p-probably love to hear them…"
I fiddle with my hooves uncomfortably
"I d-don't really like f-fighting though…"

Sidus [Rogue] 345641

>>345634
"Not that I would want anypony else than Burning."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345642

>>345639
Sigh and leave with a grave face.
I should probably go back to the smith, see if he's done.

Nock [Tracker] 345644

>>345634
Try to give my best non-blushing look. [1d10]

"Mistakes were made. I can admit that. But I am still willing to do work for you, ma'am."

Roll #1 4 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345649

>>345639
"In honesty, I hadn't given it much thought, sir. I believed that helping Tinmint with his difficulty would be a start, but that seems to have not panned out innocently as I'd hoped."
I'll rub the back of my neck.
"However, I feel that I can assist either yourself or the staff with mundane tasks until I have squared myself with the Academy for acting in a manner unfitting a paladin. How many, I'm not sure, since I don't quite know how severe that offense was."

DM 345650

>>345640
"Well you're in the wrong place then.
Paladins belong on the battlefield. Even Ascendants like the doctor."
>>345641
"Well you sure picked yourself one big ball of crazy.
Don't go getting her in trouble now, boy, or I'm putting your name up on the Royal Guard applicant list."
>>345642
He is! Yay!
"Welcome back.
Did my best. Hope it is enough."
>>345644
"Look you go get yourself cleaned up, missy.
You can help more later."
>>345649
"Well for a start, you can bring me Cadet Gold Platter."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345653

>>345650
"Yes sir."
Nodding, I'll make my exit and start hunting down Gold Platter. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Nock [Tracker] 345655

>>345650
Well, I guess there's no helping it. I'll retreat to the room for a towel-off and a fresh uniform.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345656

>>345650
I droop my ears
"I k-know but… I also want to p-protect ponies from harm…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345657

>>345650
"So do I…"
Clench the hoofguard tight.
"Thanks a lot."
I should head back for my room.

Sidus [Rogue] 345658

>>345650
"Trouble? Please."
Wave my hoof around.
"And hey, don't call her crazy! She's just… very affectionate, in her own way."

DM 345667

>>345653
You see someone who fits the bill looking down from the second floor as Tinmint drags his bag of personal things along out the door.
>>345656
"Then what better place than the front, where you protect those who protect us all?"
>>345657
You do that.
>>345655
And then you meet one another.
>>345658
"You know what I meant, hotshot.
The is a place for learning. Not making foals, you hear?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345670

>>345667
>>345655
Oh. Crap. Hide the present.
"H-hey! Why back so early?"

Nock [Tracker] 345672

>>345670
Laugh it off. "I got kind of soaked! I was doing volunteer work. Idle hooves, you know?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345673

>>345667
I'll yell up at him.
"Hey, you Cadet Golden Platter?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345675

>>345667
"Well duh. You think I'd risk getting me or her fired over that?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345677

>>345672
"Yeah, the playground of heresy…"
Look down.
"NockIjusthurtsomeponywithmymagic."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345680

>>345667
"I know… I-it's just… I'm not a brave pony… or a s-strong pony…"

Nock [Tracker] 345681

>>345677
Sigh. Well… no avoiding it, then.

Having torn off my wet uniform and toweled of, I hop on my bed and pat next to myself.

"Come here."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345683

>>345681
Let out a sigh of relief and scoot along, leaving the gift hidden under the sheets of my bed.
Lay next to her.

345686

>>345683
Embrace her.

"Do you still feel like talking about it? Celestia tells us to forgive and forget."

Roll #1 8 + 2 = 10

DM 345687

>>345673
"That's me. What's up?"
He gives a friendly smile, but has a tear in his eye.
>>345675
"From the looks of you, without a doubt."
>>345680
"Good thing courage training is mandatory here."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345688

>>345687
"Battlemaster wants you in his office five minutes ago. I'm to escort you there."

Sidus [Rogue] 345689

>>345687
"You are fast to judge one from appearance. Are you by chance learning to be an Inquisitor?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345692

>>345686
Oh Celestia why are her hooves so perfect?
"I… It was Leaf, we were talking about stuff and he asked me to make a sword, I didn't want to but he insisted and then…
I just lost control. When I opened my eyes again there were dozens of swords on the ground and he was fighting for his life and…"
Hold tight onto her, try not to cry.
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 4 + 2 = 6

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345693

>>345687
I gulp
"I k-know… I just… I h-hope I can do it… I'll try my best but… I'm not s-sure if that's enough…"

DM 345694

>>345688
"The Battlemaster?
…sure? Lead the way.
Who are you anyway? I'd introduce myself but… well you already know me."
>>345689
"Heavens no. Dreadful folks those."
>>345693
"Then you will train until it is enough."

Sidus [Rogue] 345696

>>345694
"Then don't act like one."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345697

>>345694
"O-okay…"

DM 345700

>>345696
"Am I hitting a nerve by chance?"
>>345697
"Good gal. Keep your chin up. Fear only begets weakness."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345701

>>345694
"That's not terribly important. No harm in saying, I suppose. Name's Apple."
And then I'll escort him to the Battlemaster's office.

Sidus [Rogue] 345705

>>345700
"Not at all. You are just judgemental and short sighted. That's your loss, really."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345707

>>345700
I smile a little
"O-okay… thanks…"

Nock [Tracker] 345709

>>345692
Hug her tighter.

"Vera, it's not your fault. He made you do that. Would you blame yourself he he cut himself playing with your greatsword? Of course not."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345712

>>345709
"Yes but… He wasn't angry at me. He wasn't scared. He wanted me to train more-"

Nock [Tracker] 345717

>>345712
"Of course he was. Always wanting to push boundaries and tread closer to danger, right?"

Give her another squeeze. "I'm so happy you're okay. Maybe we should talk to him. He's putting himself at risk like that other pony that plays with fire. The one that wants to sneak into the collection."

DM 345718

>>345701
"Cadet Gold Platter reporting sir."
"Sit your ass down. What is this about you cheating in the weapon exams?"
He goes pale
"I…"
"OUT WITH IT!"
"I-I asked my partner to let me win."
The battlemaster looks at you
"Cadet Apple. It is also a measure of one's heart to know what is a just punishment for another.
You know his crimes as well as your own.
What should his punishment be?"
>>345705
She looks offended
"Hmp. That's a mighty big accusation to throw at someone you only just met."
>>345707
"I'm sure this is the beginning of a long friendship.
…I forgot to introduce myself didn't I?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345719

>>345718
I shrug.
"Hey, if that's how you behaved."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345721

>>345718
I nod
"Y-yes but… uh… s-so did I…"
I let out an awkward laugh

Papaver Field [Mage] 345724

>>345717
"No, no…"
Push her away.
"Leaf is not like that, Nock. And he said something important.
Something I feel is right…
This magic is… Maybe I should try to use it. See how far I can take it…"

Nock [Tracker] 345727

>>345724
Just stare at her sadly.

"Why did you push me away?"

In both ways…

DM 345728

>>345719
"And who was judging who by the covers again?"
>>345721
"Returning Slab."
She offers a hoof

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345729

>>345728
I shakily shake it
"S-star Hopper… uh… n-nice to meet you?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345730

>>345728
"I wasn't judging you, I just said that if you don't want to seem like an Inquisitor, stop behaving like one."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345731

>>345718
"Well, sir, for cheating on the test, the scores should be invalidated and he'd have to take them over again, and fairly."
I'll shuffle my feet.
"For getting another student expelled under false pretenses, he should likely face the same fate."
I'll rub the back of my neck.
"However, I don't like the idea of writing him, or cadet Tinmint, off wholesale without at least giving them the chance to apologize to the ponies they've wronged during this."
I'll sigh.
"But I don't think any amount of drudge work will make up for the act they performed, so suspension at the very least is probably necessary."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345733

>>345727
Take her hooves in mine.
"Because I need to know this, Nock.
I have no family anymore, no past. All I want is to become a paladin. And to be with you.
Do you really hate me that much for using magic?"
Look at her with begging eyes.

DM 345736

>>345729
"Much the same, cadet."
>>345730
"Fair enough.
I still don't get what she sees in you though, short stuff."
>>345731
The battlemaster nods, then turns back to Gold Platter
"Well, I'll give you two options."
He draws his sword
"You take a new weapons test. Against me. And I'll only suspend you for a year if you pass. And by pass I mean survive."
Gold swallows audibly
"Or you can run right now, and never darken this academy again with your mug."
'1d2'

Roll #1 1 = 1

Nock [Tracker] 345737

>>345733
A look of stubborn consternation in reply, outright upset.

"I told you!"

"We play for keeps!" Drag her back into an embrace.

DM 345743

>>345736
Gold gets up
"I'd rather face you with honor than run, sir."
"Then meet me in the training room. Bring your gear. Dismissed."
The Battlemaster turns back to you as Gold leaves
"Don't mess up like he did, Apple. Ever."

Sidus [Rogue] 345744

>>345736
I chuckle.
"Not everypony is as blessed as her to see."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345745

>>345736
"S-so… I was kind o-of hoping I could uh… m-maybe learn some stuff? I-In exchange for that h-help of course!"

DM 345751

>>345744
"Suuuure."
>>345745
"Sounds good to me. What would you like to study?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345755

>>345737
My heart skips a beat as she pulls me close, and a smile grows huge on my face, as I bury my head in her chest, embracing her.
"Thanks…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345756

>>345743
I'll nod.
"I will not, sir."

Sidus [Rogue] 345758

>>345751
"One day, you might be lucky enough to see too!"

Nock [Tracker] 345760

>>345755
Pull back, but not out. Make sure she's looking me in the eye.

"I told you. We don't give up on each other here. So…"

Take a deep breath.

"If you want to learn magic… that's okay."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345762

>>345751
"… c-could you tell… or even show m-me your spells? I-I'd really like to see them…"

DM 345770

>>345756
"Do you believe you have learned from your mistake, and from theirs?"
>>345758
"Are you trying to hit on me?"
>>345762
"I don't know much in the side of magic. Just your basic healing techniques. Though I hear the doctor himself learned some rare skill in his travels. Something he called Martyrdom."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345771

>>345760
Smile at her.
"And if things go wrong, I have you to stop me, no?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345776

>>345770
"I believe so, sir."

Sidus [Rogue] 345777

>>345770
"What? No! I'm just saying, that one day you will be enligthened to realize the greatness that is I, Sidus!"

Nock [Tracker] 345780

>>345771
I playfully put a hoof on her face and stick out my tongue. "Don't make me brand you, heretic."

DM 345781

>>345776
"Then you are dismissed.
I have a failure to dismember."
He takes his sword and leaves.
>>345777
She just shrugs with a smile
"At least offer me dinner first, great one."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345783

>>345780
Roll over the bed bringing my hooves to my face.
"Oh no! The mighty inquisitor!"
Try to scram to my bed and find a pillow to use as shield!
'1d10'
"You will never take me alive!"

Roll #1 3 = 3

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345784

>>345770
"Oh… Y-you think he'd be willing to d-demonstrate?"

DM 345785

>>345784
"You should ask him, not me."

Sidus [Rogue] 345786

>>345781
"I'm sorry, as much as this must hurt you for missing out on such a pony like me, I already have my special somepony."

DM 345787

>>345786
"I'm sure you two are perfect for eachother. At least you seem equally delusional."

345788

>>345783
Now's my chance. Pounce, and pin her!

Roll #1 4 + 1 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345790

>>345781
I'll shudder a bit, and then make my way out.
Note to self, never, ever upset the Battlemaster.
And then I'll wander the academy. Maybe work my way to the training fields. Anything catch my eye? '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

345791

>>345788
"Ack! But my spirit will live on!"
Giggle and try to overpower her, rolling around the floor.

Roll #1 8 = 8

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345792

>>345785
"Oh… o-okay… sorry…"

DM 345797

>>345790
For one, Sidus seems to be arguing with some mare.
>>345792
"No need to be sorry. He just tells it better than I can."

Rolling to see how badly it ended for Gold
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

345798

>>345791
"There will be no respite for you in the afterlife. Celestia will see to that!"

Roll #1 9 + 1 = 10

Sidus [Rogue] 345799

>>345787
"Or we just see the truth."

What's the time?
Am I needed at the forge yet?

DM 345800

>>345797
He'll need that year just to recover.
The sight of the bloodstained battlemaster dragging and equally bloodied sword and student across the academy was something many cadets will never, ever forget.
>>345799
You'll be needed there early the next morning.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345803

>>345797
Hm.
>>345799
"Hey Sidus. Arguing with random mares again?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345804

>>345800
Oh, right, derp.

Nock [Tracker] 345806

>>345798
Before she can roll away, I stomp a stalwart hoof, sending waves through the cushy mattress.

I have her perfectly pinned. No escape.

"Perhaps you can be yet saved. With the compulsion of the Word of Power."

But lacking any knowledge of how to cast it… you'll have to settle for a facsimile. In this case, moving in for a kiss. [1d10+2]

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345807

>>345797
"Oh… I see… Sor-"
I cut myself off from apologizing again and blush
"Uh… s-so where is the d-doctor?"

DM 345812

>>345807
"Probably tending to someo-"
The Battlemaster pushes the door open and throws in a bloodied stallion
"Make sure he lives. Don't bother making him comfortable."
He them storms off.

345814

>>345806
Oh Celestia almighty what. She's actually doing it!
How! Why?
Just now that I'm a mess and have revealed her my deepest fears?
I haven't even shown her the gift yet!
Oh I should kiss back.
What if I don't kiss well enough and she doesn't like it?
What if my tongue ties up and-

Horsebrain, pls.
Do your thing. Kiss back.

Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12

345821

>>345812
I gasp and quickly run up to the poor cadet
"O-oh gosh!"
Heal him! He has to be stabilized… or something!

Roll #1 8 + 2 = 10

DM 345837

>>345814
>>345806
And there, in the middle of a friendly tussle between cadets, two young mares found that special spark poets and bards have written of since times immemorial.
Warm bodies press against one another, and after the slightest, magical moment of hesitation, feeling the breath of the other softly tingle on your lips, you kiss for the first time.
At first, it is all skittish and careful. barely touching lips. Scared it may offend. That you may do something wrong.
But those fears soon give way to passion born purely from a loving heart.
Time stands still as you experience for the first time this intoxicating rush of emotions that has been a muse to more works than war, wealth and devotion put together. The fear of the unknown. The excitement of discovery. The arousing tingle of attachment. The sheer physical pleasure of sensitive parts touching.
Though it is simple, it is pure in its simplicity. Like a perfect, white flower, blossoming into its full glory for the first time. And what a first time it is.
You may not know it, but many ponies can go their entire lives and never feel a kiss this perfect.
You should be proud.
So very, very proud.
Enjoy it.
>>345821
The wounds on him have been expertly made. They are painful, humiliating and slow to heal, but none of them are life threatening.

345840

>>345837
Continue to mend him! I have to ease his suffering!

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

DM 345843

>>345840
There really is very little you can do to help him feel less pain right now.
I believe that was the intention of many of these wounds…
Returning Slab rolls a bed over
"Lets lift him up into this."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345844

>>345837
Pulling back, hooves wrapped around her neck, rest my forehead on hers, looking into her eyes with nothing but a smile.

Sidus [Rogue] 345846

>>345803
"Not exactly random!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345848

>>345846
I'll smile a bit.
"Oh, so you actually find mares to argue with?"
And I'll introduce myself to Sidus's verbal sparring partner.
"Afternoon. I hope my roommate hasn't troubled you too terribly, miss…?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345853

>>345848
"It didn't start as an argument!"

345854

>>345843
Can I Inure pain from him?

Roll #1 6 = 6

Nock [Tracker] 345855

>>345844
Mmmmm

"You're… a good kisser."

DM 345859

>>345848
"Springwind. Roommate to his marefriend."
>>345854
To an extent.
"T-Thanks…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345861

>>345859
"Oh, so that's official, is it?"
>>345853
"Well, neither did your first meeting with Papaver."
I'll chuckle a bit.
"Maybe you've just got a way with mares, Sidus."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345863

>>345855
"I had the right motivation…"
Keep cuddling for a moment. Then, remember something.
Let go of her and scramble up, run to my bed and get her present out.
Then, trot back to her holding it in my hooves.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345864

>>345859
I gulp and help miss Slab get him onto a bed

Nock [Tracker] 345865

>>345863
Frown. "I hope that's not for Hearts and Hooves, my gift isn't ready…"

Sidus [Rogue] 345866

>>345861
"Official? Do we need papers for it or something?"
I chuckle.
"And yes, I know, I can't control my charisma."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345868

>>345865
Put up an innocent face.
"Only half~"
Show her the hoofguard.

DM 345869

>>345864
"There we go. Lets get you on the way to recovery then."
He just weakly nods
>>345866
>>345861
"How do you live with this guy, seriously?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345871

>>345869
"He's okay I guess. A good friend and everything."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345872

>>345866
I'll roll my eyes a bit.
"Still, this could actually work out fairly well for you. Any idea what you're getting miss Heart for Hearts and Hooves?"
>>345869
I'll give a small smile.
"He grows on you. And miss Heart has been a good influence."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345874

>>345869
"W-what happened?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345878

>>345872
I put a hoof to my mouth.
"Ssshhhh. It's a secret. And you know her, she might as well be around here somewhere now."

DM 345882

>>345872
>>345871
"You boys do know Hearts and Hooves is banned here, right?"
>>345874
"Battlemaster…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345884

>>345882
I gasp
"B-but why!? That's h-horrible!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345886

>>345882
"Who said anything about that silly thing?"

Chuckle.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345887

>>345878
I'll raise an eyebrow.
>>345882
"Of course it is. But that doesn't mean we can't do something nice for mares we've grown attached to."

Nock [Tracker] 345890

>>345868
Give her a big hug. "I love it. But you have to keep the rest a surprise, alright?"

DM 345891

>>345887
"Well the point is you really aren't supposed to have relationships in here."
>>345884
"….my….fault."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345895

>>345891
I open my mouth to ask more, then decided against it
"O-okay… you s-should rest now…"

Sidus [Rogue] 345896

>>345891
"Nopony has to know."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345899

>>345891
"Who says we are?"
I'll shrug.
"Besides, it's not like we're sneaking into each others' rooms during the night and doing things that could end up with us getting expelled."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345901

>>345890
"Well there's just a little hint on here…"
Giggle a bit and give her the metal hoofguard with the pentagram incised upon it, and below, the words 'Straight as the arrows you fly'.

Nock [Tracker] 345904

>>345901
Giggle. "No fair. I thought I had reformed you, heretic."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345907

>>345904
Stick my tongue out for her and trot over to the balcony.

DM 345911

>>345899
>>345896
She raises an eyebrow
"You two are about as believable as…
…hm, can't think of a non-dirty example.
Well shit.
Anyway, not very."
>>345895
"T-thanks… again…"
Slab wheels him into the rest ward

Sidus [Rogue] 345913

>>345911
"It's fine, you don't have to jealous."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345915

>>345911
I watch him go and sit there for a while, waiting on her to return

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345917

>>345911
"I'll have you know I'm a perfect gentlecolt."
I'll shrug again.
"But think what you will, I suppose."

DM 345919

>>345913
>>345917
"Look you two, this is a revered academy for warriors, not some sleazy tavern for picking up mares!"
>>345915
She soon returns
"Well that was… a little grisly."

Nock [Tracker] 345920

>>345907
Follow her out.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345922

>>345919
I'll shoot a look at Sidus.
"I see how it turned into an argument."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345925

>>345920
Hold her hoof.
"I want to show it to you. Promise you won't be scared?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345927

>>345922
"I know, right?"

>>345919
"And that's why I am here. To be better and to learn."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345928

>>345919
I nod
"That w-was awful! W-Why would he do that!?"

DM 345933

>>345927
"Yes, you have certainly displayed a lot of that, creeping up on me then staring in my window and playing stupid mind games with me."
>>345922
"He started it!"
>>345928
"The battlemaster has great anger in him. Anger he directs at the things he hates most.
His enemies.
And those who fail him."

Sidus [Rogue] 345935

>>345933
"First, I walked up next to you. Second, I did what you did. Third, you were amusing to annoy."

Nock [Tracker] 345936

>>345925
Look at her uneasily.

"Show me what?"

345938

>>345936
Conjure a magic sword.
Pls let me take 8.
"This."

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 345940

>>345938
I'm laughing so hard right now

DM 345941

>>345938
The hand of destiny offers you a chance to take that 8.
Do you still want it?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345942

>>345933
I look at her with wide eyes, breathing much faster all of the sudden
"T-that sounds…scary…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345943

>>345927
>>345933
"Alright you two, that's enough."
I'll chuckle a bit.
"Sidus, apologize for teasing your marefriend's roommate."

Sidus [Rogue] 345944

>>345943
"What? No way!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345945

>>345941
I didn't know destiny had hands. I thought it had hooves like all normal ponies.
Yes.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345948

>>345944
"Well, at least apologize for sneaking up on her. It's only polite."

DM 345949

>>345935
"I should slap you."
>>345942
"He can be a little scary.
But he is a very caring pony. And he has his reasons to hate failure."
>>345945
Different destiny.
I'll just put this crit fail into storage then. And pull it out at a horribly inopportune moment.
An unseen force aids you in guiding the flow of magic.
It obeys without question, and you conjure up a shimmering, magical blade.

Nock [Tracker] 345954

>>345949
Do I take it well?

[1d10+2]

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9

Papaver Field [Mage] 345955

>>345954
Look at her with a nervous expression, keeping the sword aflot in the air.

Sidus [Rogue] 345957

>>345948
"That's not true either. She just didn't notice me walking up next to her."

>>345949
"You really shouldn't."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345959

>>345957
"Be the bigger pony. I'm pretty sure she thinks you're at fault."

Nock [Tracker] 345960

>>345954
I give it an uncertain look, at first, but then I put on my brave face, and hold her hoof.

"I understand now. The cutie mark… and…"

A deep breath in and out. "I'm still here."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345961

>>345949
I nod sheepishly
"O-okay… can I-I go for now?"

DM 345963

>>345961
"If that was all you wanted for now, sure. Come back any time."
>>345957
"You're right. I should punch you."

Sidus [Rogue] 345964

>>345959
"Hmm…..Nah."

Papaver Field [Mage] 345965

>>345960
"Thank you."
Let go of the sword and smile at her, then rest my head on her neck.
And then they cuddled.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345966

>>345963
I nod and scurry away
I have to find Jon and tell him about this!

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345973

>>345963
>>345964
I'll just shrug again.
"Well, suit yourself. Nice to meet you, miss Springwind."
And then I'm off to wander the fields.

DM 345975

>>345966
He and Sidus seem to be outside.
>>345965
Want to do something?
>>345973
Star is looking for you.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345976

>>345975
Well, I'll trot up to her then, I guess.
"Heya Star, what's up?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345977

>>345975
Definitely.
But I really have little I could do. Solved my main plot point, found love, accepted my destiny, found my old self esteem…

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345978

>>345976
"J-Jon! It's t-terrible!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345979

>>345973
>>345975
I guess I should…'find' Burning too.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345980

>>345978
I'll take a step back.
"W-what? What happened?"

DM 345981

>>345977
Are still stuck in baby shoes with spellcasting, have done nothing to resolve the thing with Balsawood…
>>345979
She is standing right behind Springwind.
Springwind herself has not noticed.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345982

>>345980
I speak the following words very quickly
"I-I… I went to the m-medical wing and I met this nice nurse that a-agreed to let me help a-around with stuff in the c-clinic and then the Battlemaster came in a-and he was all bloody and he was dragging along another cadet who w-was really w-wounded and d-dropped him off for us to heal!"

Sidus [Rogue] 345983

>>345981
Chuckle but say nothing.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345984

>>345982
I'll grimace.
"So he really meant it when he said 'survive.'"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345985

>>345981
But we decided Balsawood is dangerous!
Yeah I should probably get some work done with my spellcasting.
I wonder if Leaf can take me to the magic practice range.
Or I could always see what's going on with Star and Jon.

DM 345986

>>345983
"…What's so funny?"

DM 345987

>>345985
Your call.
Go find anyone you want.

Sidus [Rogue] 345988

>>345986
Smirk.
"You are about to find out."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345990

>>345984
I cock my head
"W-what?"

DM 345991

>>345988
"What are you-"
"Hey there Spring!"
"GAAAAAH!"
Springwing falls over and tries to crawl away from her, bumping into you

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345992

>>345990
"That student had actually done something that resulted in two other students getting expelled. The Battlemaster was furious with him. He nearly cracked his desk in half just from hearing about it…"
I'll shake my head.
"So, how was he? Is he gonna be alright?"

Sidus [Rogue] 345993

>>345991
I laugh again.
"You were right, Springwind. Burning and I are a match made in heaven."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 345994

>>345992
"Oh… I-I… yes… but it'll take a long t-time to heal a-and…"
I grimace
"It will hurt for a l-long time too…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 345995

>>345992
Yup I meet with you two.
"Who are you talking about?"

DM 345997

>>345993
"Oh fuck both of you, I'm out of here."
She leaves.

Sidus [Rogue] 345998

>>345997
Look at her, then back to Burning.
"I think she likes us."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 345999

>>345994
I'll nod after a second.
"That was probably intentional. And that was what that cadet chose instead of leaving the academy."

DM 346000

>>345998
"She's got a nasty mouth but sharp ears. So, what's up?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346002

>>345999
Keep looking from Jon to Star with a lost expression on my face.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346003

>>345999
I shudder a little
"The B-battlemaster scares me…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346005

>>346002
"Oh hey, Vera, sorry about that. Star was telling me about a cadet that got brought into the infirmary while she was there. He'd done something that the Battlemaster found quite disagreeable."
>>346003
"He scares me too."

Sidus [Rogue] 346006

>>346000
"Not much, not much… What were you up to?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346008

>>346005
"Was it celebrating Heart and Hooves Day?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346009

>>346005
"I hope he never gets angry at me…"

>>346008
I gasp and look at her with wide eyes

DM 346010

>>346006
"Been making some… preparations~"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346011

>>346009
Meet her wide-eyed glare with one of my own.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346012

>>346008
I'll shake my head.
"Nah, it was pretty bad. He and another student got a third student expelled, and the one that ended up in the infirmary has be blackmailing his partner into helping him cheat on his tests."
I'll sigh a bit.
"Never thought my arguing with Nock would have ended up with me exposing this…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346014

>>346012
"Wait, you and Nock argued?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346015

>>346010
I smirk.
"Whatever for?"

DM 346016

>>346015
"A surprise~"

Sidus [Rogue] 346017

>>346016
"A surprise? Is it my birthday?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346018

>>346012
I let out a sigh of relief
"W-Well that's a relief… I g-guess. At least I m-managed to heal him a little…"

DM 346019

>>346017
"No, that's in late summer, silly."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346020

>>346014
I'll sit down and sigh again.
"Yeah. Earlier today. I was… concerned about how her ignoring the fact your mark was in magic was effecting you. She seemed to have taken that as an insult, and believed I was trying to turn you into a card-carrying hat-wearing mage."
>>346018
"I'm sure he could have used it, after the Battlemaster was through with him."
I'll give Star a little smile.

Sidus [Rogue] 346021

>>346019
"…when did I tell you that."

DM 346022

>>346021
"…I guess you didn't."
She just gives an innocent smile

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346023

>>346020
I smile back and sit down to listen to what Vera has to say to that

346024

>>346020
Giggle a bit and bring a hoof to my mouth.
"I think we are past that now~"
Then move in and hug him.
"But thanks for talking with her."

Roll #1 6 = 6

Sidus [Rogue] 346025

>>346022
I smile and shake my head.
"I don't know how you do all this, seriously."

DM 346026

>>346025
"I got ways.
…what did you talk about with my roommate?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346027

>>346026
"That depends. How much did you hear of it?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346028

>>346024
I'll be honestly surprised.
"Wait, so she actually talked with you?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346030

>>346024
"Y-you… you're n-not going to burn away y-your magic?"

DM 346031

>>346027
"What ever do you mean, dear?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346032

"Well, I had to start the conversation but the…
Something magic happened~"
>>346030
Shake my head vigorously with a huge grin.

Sidus [Rogue] 346033

>>346031
"I mean, when did you get around? How much of the conversation did you hear? You could spare me the effort of telling something you already heard."
Give her a confident grin.

DM 346034

>>346033
"What if I'd just like to listen to your voice a little, hm~"

Sidus [Rogue] 346036

>>346034
"Hah, we did talk about voices…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346037

>>346032
"Well, I'm glad that you two worked that out."
I'll smile.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346038

>>346032
I squee in delight and leap in to hug her with great enthusiasm

DM 346039

>>346036
"And bedroom habits and first impressions."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346041

>>346037
"Yes. She even liked one of my swords…"
Play around with my catalyst again.
>>346038
But then i get assaulted by her. Hug her back.
"I'm so happy today.."

Sidus [Rogue] 346042

>>346039
"I wonder sometimes if there are two of you and one of you always follow me around while the other lives as Burning Heart."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346043

>>346041
"T-that's great! I'm really happy!"

DM 346045

>>346042
"You'd like that, wouldn't you?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346046

>>346043
Let go of her and Jon, then look around and motion them closer.
Whisper in their ears.
"We kissed!"
Then pull back and start giggling like a schoolfilly.

Sidus [Rogue] 346047

>>346045
"It would have it's pros and cons~"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346048

>>346041
Well, I guess Nock isn't too bad. Though I wonder how much of that talk was as a result of our argument as it was Vera's needs…
"That's really great, Vera. Really."
I'll keep smiling.
"Oh, and you didn't hear it from me, but Nock's got a surprise planned for you."

DM 346049

>>346047
"Do tell~"

Sidus [Rogue] 346051

>>346049
"I'm not sure that would appropriate here."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346052

>>346046
I blush
"T-that's… so romantic!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346053

>>346046
I'll blush a little as well.

DM 346054

>>346051
"We can go elsewhere"
She nods upwards at the window

Sidus [Rogue] 346056

>>346054
"Spring won't be around?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346057

>>346052
"It felt just… Perfect~"
>>346053
Damn they are both blushing.
No good. Let's chance subject.
"Soooo… ponies got kicked out of the academy?"

DM 346058

>>346056
"I doubt it.
And she's not hard to see coming anyway."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346059

>>346057
I'll clear my throat a bit.
"Y-yeah, he did. Well, one of them decided to stay and take the Battlemaster's discipline instead of leaving. Not sure I should tell the whole story, though…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346060

>>346058
"That's true."

Go to her room.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346061

>>346057
I awkwardly poke at the ground with a hoof

DM 346062

>>346060
You skip and hop up the vines by the wall in there, and she pushes a chair to block the door
"So~
Do tell."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346063

>>346059
"I can understand. At times, I still fear Balsawood might be getting himself into trobles."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346064

>>346063
"Who?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346065

>>346062
I let out a quick laugh.
"First of all, I would never have a moment of privacy ever again."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346066

>>346064
"A second year I met in our first week. He was planning to sneak into the headmaster's collection…"

DM 346067

>>346065
"Would that be so bad?
Just think of all the ~benefits~"

Sidus [Rogue] 346069

>>346067
"..like?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346070

>>346066
My eyes will widen at that.
"But you remember what the headmaster said about that. He guards it with the ponies he trusts the most, which means they're probably some of the strongest in the academy!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346071

>>346066
"T-that doesn't sound like a g-good idea at all…"

DM 346072

>>346069
"Well…
I could be twice as good to you~"
She softly caresses you

Papaver Field [Mage] 346073

>>346070
"Trust me, I heard worse. There is a rumor about a student that managed to reach that collection, and was never been heard from again!"

Sidus [Rogue] 346075

>>346072
"You mean… bring me two trays of food in the cafeteria?~"
I nod with a grin.
"I could certainly get behind that idea."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346076

>>346073
I'll shake my head.
"And this Balsawood thinks he can do it where the other one failed? I mean, sure, I'm curious as well, but I'm not going to jump headfirst into a deathtrap just to see."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346077

>>346076
I subtly inch a little closer to him as I hear that last part

DM 346079

>>346075
"That… and I could kiss you here…"
She gives you a soft kiss
"…and down here at the same time"
She tries to down down under you
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Papaver Field [Mage] 346080

>>346071
"The same thing I thought. But after telling him about the collection I couldn't stop him."
>>346076
"I am curious too…"

DM 346082

>>346079
And then backs off after a miserable failure
"Ahem…
Well you get the idea."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346084

>>346080
"Well, maybe it'll take more than just one of you to stop him. If he doesn't get too far, maybe we could talk him out of it?"
I'll frown a bit.
"Or… hm. I kinda don't want to run off and tell the Battlemaster about this, since he hasn't really tried it yet. And I've got no evidence."

Sidus [Rogue] 346085

>>346082
>>346079
I chuckle and pet her mane.
"Of course I get the idea. I'm not saying it wouldn't be good either~"
Give her a kiss.
Quality and all that.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Papaver Field [Mage] 346086

>>346084
"That would probably get him expelled…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346087

>>346086
"Or worse."
I'll keep frowning.
"Is there anyone else who knows this?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346088

>>346087
"Leaf and Nock do."

DM 346089

>>346085
"…can I try again?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346090

>>346089
"Why couldn't you try and kiss me?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346091

>>346088
"Who's Leaf?"

DM 346092

>>346090
"…both kisses?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346093

>>346091
"Leaf Blade, my magic tutor. He's a second year, the pony who got me to try and hold a wand in the first place."

Sidus [Rogue] 346094

>>346092
"Oh… I'm not one to stop a mare from what she wants…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346095

>>346093
"Wow… I w-wish I could meet him… he s-sounds smart."

DM 346096

>>346094
She smiles contently, then tries to demonstrate the value of two of her again.
First up
'1d10'
Then down
'1d10'
"H-how was it?"

Roll #1 1 = 1 / Roll #2 5 = 5

Papaver Field [Mage] 346097

>>346095
"I almost hurt him, today.."
Look ashamed at the ground.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346098

>>346093
I'll nod.
"Well, he could probably help. Nock might be able to help as well."
I'll think for a minute.
"Maybe we could even get Sidus in on this, assuming he wants to try and outsneak a sneaky pony."

Sidus [Rogue] 346100

>>346096
"Burning… let's just practice one on one kissing first, okay?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346101

>>346098
"Shouldn't we just talk with him?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346102

>>346101
"We could try, but now that he's had a few months to prepare, he might be too far in to stop with just words."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346104

>>346097
"Oh… I-I'm sure it w-wasn't your fault!"
I flash a awkward smile

DM 346105

>>346100
"Okay…"
She looks ashamed
"You lead this time, ok?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346106

>>346102
"W-wait! What are you planning?"
>>346104
Sigh.
"I lost control…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346107

>>346105
Take the lead.
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

DM 346108

>>346107
"…um… ok?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sidus [Rogue] 346109

>>346108
It was just warmup!
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346110

>>346106
"Oh…"
I deflate slightly
"Well… J-Just another reason why you n-need to train!"

DM 346111

>>346107
>>346108
>>346109
Well this is stilted and awkward
"Can we lay down or something… this feels… weird."

Sidus [Rogue] 346113

>>346111
"Sure, it must have been this standing pose."
Get comfortable and try again!
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346114

>>346106
"Nothing drastic. If he doesn't get talked out of it by a group of ponies, then we might need to restrain him."

DM 346115

>>346113
You lay down on her bed and invite her to join.
She snuggles up next to you, tossing her tail over your flank.
After staring into her eyes for a moment, you try again, and this time it feels a lot more natural. A lot more personal. A lot more like love.
She can't help but grind against you a little.
You're just that good.

Sidus [Rogue] 346116

>>346115
Heh, of course I am.
I'm Sidus.
Keep it up for a bit then, and just enjoy the moment and her presence.

DM 346117

>>346116
Rolling to keep it under control
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

DM 346119

>>346117
>>346116
Yeah.
She can keep herself in check.
Just laying there, enjoying the fact that she can be close to you.
"You are to warm…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346120

Can I sneak my way to the smith while Jon and Vera are talking without them noticing? '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346121

>>346120
Well, let's see… '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sidus [Rogue] 346122

>>346119
Good girl.
"You are too…hehe…Burning."

DM 346123

>>346114
>>346106
>>346104
If you wish to pursue an avenue to Balsawood, Leaf Blade knows his old tricks.

>>346120
Seems like you can
"Welcome back cadet."

DM 346124

>>346122
"Right now… I really want nothing more than to be with you.
I wish this could last forever…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346125

>>346123
I swallow and blush a little
"I-Is that shield ready?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346127

>>346124
"I don't."

DM 346129

>>346125
"Almost. Want to see?"
>>346127
"…you want to be a paladin. That is why you are here after all. Not for me.
…I understand."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346130

Sidus [Rogue] 346131

>>346129
"And after that is done, we can conquer the heavens together… And cuddle like this among the gods~"

DM 346132

>>346130
"Very well. Here goes."
He presents you a well polished shield with a golden apple, split in half with a silver slash
>>346131
"I can hardly wait…
Though… right now… I'd rather not wait at all.
But I will. Because that's what you want.
I'll be patient."
Rolling to actually be patient
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

DM 346133

>>346132
>>346131
Her body is more honest than her mouth…

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346134

>>346132
I smile
"I-It looks great… How l-long until you finish it?"

DM 346136

>>346134
"It needs a bit more polish and a new handle on the inside."

Sidus [Rogue] 346137

>>346132
>>346133
"Burning…please."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346138

>>346136
"Okay… C-can I wait here until i-it's finished?"

DM 346139

>>346137
She's all red in the face now.
"I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry…"
She tries to distance away a little
>>346138
"Sure. Just don't get in the way."

Sidus [Rogue] 346140

>>346139
"I'm not asking too much, am I?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346141

>>346139
"Okay… I'll w-wait…"
Find a corner to stand in where I wont get in the way

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346142

>>346123
I'd like to speak with Leaf Blade, but I'll need Papaver to make the introductions.

DM 346143

>>346140
"I…
…of course not.
I'm just… being bad, I guess."
She sighs and snuggles in again
"I'm sorry if I upset you.
Can we just go back to being nice and close?"
>>346141
After a while, the smith smiles, nods and comes to you.
"Done."
>>346142
Or you can run into him by chance if you want.

Sidus [Rogue] 346144

>>346143
"Yes, please."
Crazy mare.
Pet her head just to show I'm not upset or anything.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346145

>>346143
I smile and take it from him
"T-thank you so m-much!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346146

>>346143
I could.
How awake are you? Going for the whole night?

DM 346148

>>346144
She just feels it's better to say nothing, do nothing, cut her losses and take what you give her.
>>346146
The night is long since over. It's almost 7am. I can still last a while.
Well as you walk off you run into a second year student.
Quite literally. He was absorbed in thought and did not look where he was going.
"Sorry about that. I was a little occupied."

Sidus [Rogue] 346149

>>346148
Come the fuck on Burning, don't do this to me!
1d10

Sidus [Rogue] 346150

>>346149
Derp'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346151

>>346148
"No worries, I was having a bit of trouble myself. You wouldn't happen to know where I could find a second-year by the name of Leaf Blade, would you?"

DM 346153

>>346145
"No problem.
…but lets not mention this to anyone, ok?"
>>346149
>>346150
Well?
>>346151
"Well that would be me.
…how do you know my name?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346154

>>346153
I sigh.
"…you do really want…that, don't you?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346155

>>346153
"We have a mutual friend in Papaver Field. First things, I wanted to thank you for encouraging her and getting her to accept her magic. Second, I need to talk to you about Balsawood."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346156

>>346153
I nod quickly
"O-okay! Thank y-you!"
I rush out and head back to my dorm to hide this

DM 346157

>>346154
She gives a shy smile
"I… want anything and everything you want to give me…"
>>346155
"Vera? Well, any friend of hers should be a friend of mine too.
…and what about Balsa?"
>>346156
And off you went.

Sidus [Rogue] 346159

>>346157
"Be straight with me Burning. Speak your mind. What do you want."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346160

>>346157
"Well, it came up that she told him about the headmaster's collection. I don't want somepony to die if we can stop him."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346161

>>346157
When is Hearts and hooves anyway?
Once that is taken care of… I go back to Jon and Vera and try to act like I never left '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

DM 346163

>>346159
"In time… I want your children.
But that is not for here. Not for now.
For now…
For now I want anything I can get."
>>346160
"Stopping him is easier said than done my friend. But this is not something we want to discuss out in the open like this."
>>346161
A few days from now.
Also, Jon left somewhere.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346164

>>346163
"Well, we've got to talk about it eventually. Where would you like to speak of it?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346165

>>346163
Did Sylt go to sleep?
Oh no! F

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346166

>>346165
Find him again! '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Sidus [Rogue] 346167

>>346163
I sigh again.
"I'm not promising anything… but I might have something for later. Might."

DM 346168

>>346166
He seems to be talking to some second year guy over yonder. >>346164
>>346164
"Either of our rooms will do."
>>346167
"Nothing for now?
Not even something little?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346169

>>346168
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346170

>>346168
I'll nod.
"After dinner, but before light's out?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346171

>>346170
>>346168
Sneak up on him and stand by his side again without saying a word

Sidus [Rogue] 346172

>>346169
>>346168
Under control
"Patience. I'm always true to my word. I will do what I promised, but I want you to just be a bit more patient in the meantime."

DM 346174

>>346172
"F-f-ffffiiiiine…"
>>346170
"Right.
I'll see you there."

Sidus [Rogue] 346176

>>346174
"It can't be that bad, can it?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346177

>>346174
I'll nod.
"Alright. Again, nice meeting you."

DM 346178

>>346176
"You have no idea."
>>346177
"Until later then."
He walks off

Sidus [Rogue] 346179

>>346178
I smirk.
"Am I that good?"

DM 346180

>>346179
"Better."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346181

And that's that.
I'll probably be a bit startled when I notice Star beside me.
"When did you get there?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346182

>>346180
Lean closer and whisper in her ear in a low voice.
"Then imagine how good Hearts and Hooves day will be~"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346184

>>346181
"… Uh… J-just now?"

DM 346185

>>346182
Rolling to maintain composure
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

DM 346187

>>346185
>>346182
Not a chance.
"Y-you can't tell me those k-kinds of things and expect me to be patient!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346188

>>346184
"Okay. You just startled me a bit, since I didn't hear you walk up."
I'll sidle up next to Star.
"So, we've got a bit of time to ourselves, what would you like to do?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346190

>>346187
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346192

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346194

>>346192
How forward. But we can continue this later.

Sidus [Rogue] 346196

>>346190
>>346187
That desperate voice…
"I am too great to leave you in distress like this… so just a little something in the meantime, okay?"

DM 346197

>>346196
"I'm all yours~"

Sidus [Rogue] 346199

>>346197
Let's hope it's enough.
Pet her, but not on the head this time

And then things fade to black.

And I'm going to sleep

DM 346201

>>346199
And then they had some less than family friendly time together.
After trying the door four times in an hour, Springwind gave up and went to read in the library instead, grumbling about her whore of a roommate.

NEXT TIME ON TABLE FACTORY
SLUTS
SLUTS
SLUTS
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2H4yqVN4as

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346364

>>346188
I fiddle with my hooves awkwardly
"Y-you decide…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346365

>>346364
"Well, it's been a while since our last training session. We could work on that."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346366

>>346365
I nod meekly
"Okay…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346367

>>346366
"Alright."
And then we'll make our way to the training fields.
"Today, we'll work on blocking, and getting through somepony's guard."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346368

>>346367
I nod meekly once again and wait for him to take initiative

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346369

>>346368
"Alright, for the first few swings, I'm just going to sit here with my shield up. I want you to do your best to get either around or through it, okay?"
And once we're in position, the shield goes up. '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

346371

>>346369
I gulp and look at my training sword, then raise it with my telekinesis and strike… making sure to hold back on power

Roll #1 7 + 0 = 7

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346372

>>346371
That's a 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346373

>>346371
The sword clunks softly against the shield.
"Come on now, hit harder. I know you can patch me up if you need to."
maintaining defense '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346374

>>346372
We can actually use subtraction now. Don't need to put +-.

346375

>>346373
"O-okay… sorry…"
Repeat the same thing

Roll #1 7 - 2 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346376

>>346375
The same dull clunk.
I'll sigh a little bit.
"Come on, Star, I know you can hit harder than that. You've got to try."
Keeping the shield up. '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

346378

>>346376
I take a deep breath and strike again without a single further thought. Not holding back this time.

Roll #1 7 - 1 = 6

346381

>>346378
Looks like I manage to bypass the guard Jonagold set up. My sword manages to strike his left side. I gasp as I hear him grunt in pain and quickly give him a hug while trying to heal him
"S-sorry!"

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346383

>>346381
Looks like it worked.
"Well, you hugged it better, so it's fine. I wanted you to get through, after all."
I'll pat her head.
"Still, good work. Now, it's time for you to set up a guard. Let's see how it does. Just tell me when you're ready."

346385

>>346383
I gulp and look at him with wide eyes
"O-okay…"
Try to set up a guard

-1 because I'm not very good at this stuff

Roll #1 4 - 1 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346386

>>346385
"Okay, here I come."
Gently now. '1d10-1'

Roll #1 4 - 1 = 3

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346387

>>346386
The sword connects, but her guard holds.
"Good! Very good! Keep it up!"
'1d10-1'

Roll #1 5 - 1 = 4

346388

>>346387
Try to do so, gritting my teeth

Roll #1 5 - 1 = 4

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346389

>>346388
Again, her guard holds.
"That's the spirit, keep it up."
Okay, I think she's ready. I can stop holding back. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

346390

>>346389
"O-okay…"
Block!

Roll #1 3 - 1 = 2

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346391

>>346390
I'll end up going right through her guard, giving her a small tap on the side.
"You've got to do more than hold it still sometimes, Star. Sometimes it's better to parry than absorb the hit, especially if you don't use a shield."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346393

>>346391
"Oh… o-okay… I'll try…"
I rub the spot where he hit me

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346394

>>346393
"Okay, when you're ready, we'll go again."

346395

>>346394
"I'm ready…"
Take up a stance and try to keep in mind what he told me

Roll #1 10 - 1 = 9

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346396

>>346395
"Alright, here I go!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346398

>>346396
Looks like I skillfully parry his attack, making him stumble as his sword slices through thin air.
"Are you o-okay?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346400

>>346398
"Perfectly fine! Nice work. Here I come again, though, so be on guard!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

346401

>>346400
I shriek and block his unexpected, though slow attack

Roll #1 5 - 1 = 4

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346404

>>346401
Once again, I manage to dodge his strike

DM 346405

NPCs activated

Papaver Field [Mage] 346406

>>346405
FOR THE GREATER GOOD!
Find Leaf. I have to tell him. Oh and Balsa came up in a discussion, too.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346407

>>346404
"Good work, Star. Very good."
I'll lower my guard.
"I think that's enough for today, though, if you want to stop."

DM 346409

>>346406
You run into him in the main building, near the library
"Vera! Nice to see you again. How's it going?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346411

>>346407
"O-okay…"
I sheathe my sword and look at him

Papaver Field [Mage] 346413

>>346409
Almost burst in joy.
"It was so perfect! Everything! Just perfect!
I made a sword and she didn't snap at me, but held my hoof and said she understood and…"
Stop rabbling.
"Okay, I'm happy. A lot."

DM 346415

>>346413
He smiles warmly
"Would you like to tell the whole story over a glass of water? I just got back from some training."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346416

>>346411
"Really, you did well. Picked up parrying a lot faster than I thought you would. You've got pretty good instinct for this, Star."
I'll nod to myself for a bit.
"Well, it seems we've got a bit of time still before the next class… what would you like to do?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346417

>>346416
"T-thanks… and… Uh… you can decide…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346419

>>346415
Blush slightly and look surprised for a second.
"I.. Uh-there is not much to tell, really!"
Smile sheepishly.
"Everything went just… Good. As you would read in a book with a happy ending or something.
But yeah, I'd love that glass of water."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346420

>>346417
I'll roll my eyes a little and walk up to stand beside Star.
"Oh come on, I can't decide everything. Remember, I want to do things you think are fun too."
I'll give a small chuckle.
"But, if you want to see if those seats in the library are still there, we could just sit for a while. Or, we could sit around out here and relax. I'm sure there's a nice, shady tree for that, though the instructors might get a bit suspicious."

DM 346422

>>346419
"Good. I'm parched."
He heads for the dining hall

Papaver Field [Mage] 346423

>>346422
Trot along.
"What did the nurse say about the cuts?"

DM 346425

>>346423
"They weren't so bad as they were numerous. Your storms of magic canbe impressive to witness, but they aren't all that devastating."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346426

>>346425
"Good thing somepony is going to help me fix that second part, right?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346427

>>346420
"I'm h-happy as long as I'm w-with you…"

DM 346429

>>346426
"And not just one. I'm not the only one willing to help. But I would be happy to."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346431

>>346429
Look at him quizzically.
"You have other friends into conjuration?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346432

>>346427
I'll blush a little.
"Star, you say some dangerous things sometimes."
I'll clear my throat a bit.
"Anyway, why not head to the dining hall for a drink? Always good to have a nice drink after some exercise."

DM 346434

>>346431
"I meant sir Layline."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346435

>>346432
"Huh? D-dangerous? Why?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346436

>>346434
Stare at him dumbstruk for a second.
"Oh. Right. Him."
Go back to my glass of water, it might be for the best.
"I'm not sure what he'll do, after all I've said to him."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346437

>>346435
I'll keep blushing.
"W-well, you're really cute when you say things like that, and you make my heart skip a beat. One of these days I might just lose control and end up k-kissing you without warning."

DM 346438

>>346436
He shakes his head with a chuckle
"Do you think you're the first student to get cold hooves about magic here? He's seen plenty come and go. Helped some, dismissed others. Even before he was a teacher."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346439

>>346437
I blush even redder
"Oh… o-okay… uh… sorry?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346440

>>346439
"It's fine, it's just… don't be too disappointed in me if it happens, okay?"
And then we'll blishingly, awkwardly make our way to the dining hall.

Papaver Field [Mage] 346441

>>346438
"Were you one of those?"

DM 346442

>>346441
"Indeed.
I knew of conjuration as a school of magic, but had no understanding of how to truly utilize it. All I had were my little fireballs.
Heh… I once burned down an outhouse with them. Got me into big trouble. Or, well, it felt like big trouble at that age at least.
But since I've been here, I have learned to harness that power in a more focused form, and to wield it with accuracy and might befitting a paladin. And I have unlocked those secrets of conjuration I sought.
But above all, Layline taught me one thing I feel I absolutely must pass onto you…"
>>346440
Seems Vera is here with some guy

Papaver Field [Mage] 346443

>>346442
Cock my head and keep listening, wide eyes following him in captived attention.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346444

>>346442
Oh, hey, would you look at that, it's Leaf Blade.
Probably shouldn't bother them, though. Let's get a couple glasses of water, and sit at an unoccupied table.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346445

>>346444
Follow him

Any food I could grab and eat? '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

DM 346446

>>346443
"Above all, he taught me that magic is not about books, incantations, rhymes or formulas. It is not the exact, cold, codified science mages seem to so firmly imply it is.
Magic is a living thing. A force with a will. It is not math, it is emotion. Not a string of values or sequence of measurements. But like a wind. A storm.
…a river.
And because of this, the most important thing is not to learn magic. It is to understand magic. To feel magic. To guide it and to let it be a part of you. A natural extension of your heart and soul.
What I'm trying to say, Vera, is that he helped me understand that not all magic is found in books.
And because of that, I found the strength of will to combine the skills I knew to create my own fire swords.
…I'm rambling, aren't I?"
>>346445
>>346444
Adam's Apple pokes her head out the kitchen door, spots you, smiles, and soon one of the assistant chefs brings over a tray of fresh food.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346448

>>346446
Well, there's a bonus for having family in the kitchens. I'll take a little for myself, and share a nice lunch with Star.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346449

>>346446
I grin widely and take a large portion of food for myself to eat
"She's so nice…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346450

>>346446
Shake my head.
"Not one bit. It's just what I see every time I close my eyes!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346452

>>346449
"She really is. We were really lucky that I had family here…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346453

>>346452
"You must h-have a big family…"

DM 346454

>>346450
"What I wanted to say is, do not be discouraged if you cannot find the answer you want in a book.
Chances are, the spells you seek to wield may not even be in a book, but deep inside you, waiting to be realized and born the moment you learn how to let that happen.
So do not fear that river.
Master it."

Sylt 346456

>>346454
"Sounds hard. And theoretical. And it makes my head hurt a bit."

DM 346457

>>346456
"That's just it.
Leave the theory out. And replace it with your heart."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346458

>>346453
I'll chuckle a little.
"Yep. Seems to get bigger with every reunion, too. Apples have a history of being not only farmer, but settlers and explorers. Heck, the plot of land I live on was given to our family by the Princesses generations ago for helping settle that stretch of earth. Towns just seem to sprout up around Apple farms."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346459

>>346457
"So just go out there and try to make magic happen?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346461

>>346458
I'll cough a bit.
"But I think I wandered a bit there. Yes, we've got a big family. Miss Adam's Apple there is my cousin's wife's mother."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346462

>>346458
"Wow…"
I look down
"I-I never really left Canterlot… at all… I-I don't really know m-much about how life is outside the city…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346463

.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346464

>>346462
"Well, it's usually pretty quiet. A lot of the hustle and bustle of the city just isn't found out there, and certain luxuries are a bit harder to find in the smaller towns. You won't be able to find a library as big as the one in Canterlot until you hit Fillydelphia, or one of the other major cities, for instance. Other things get a little harder to find as well, like specific types of sweets and the like."
I'll shrug.
"Then again, some things become easier to find. Good honey, fresh cider, crops just off the stalk, vine, or tree…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346465

>>346464
"Oh… well it does s-sound really peaceful… Less p-ponies around to make noise and stuff…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346467

>>346463
Want to come over and drink with us?

Sidus [Rogue] 346469

>>346467
Do I?~

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346471

>>346465
"Well, it can still get pretty busy. Especially for us farmers. Even more so when it hits Applebucking season and harvest time. Sun-up to sundown, with a few breaks in between. We can usually harvest the entire orchard in a week or so, if we're in a hurry."
I'll give a little smile.
"Off season, though, it does get pretty dull. You end up with quite a bit of free time after chores have finished. I spent most of that time either practicing, or just goofing off around town."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346472

>>346469
You'd have to escape the marshmallow clutches of Burning Heart first.

DM 346473

>>346459
"Not out there. In there."
>>346463
I believe you were fisting your waifu?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346475

>>346471
"… The nightsky must be r-really pretty too without a-all the lights…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346476

>>346473
I remember no such thing.
That wouldn't even work.
Learn 2 anatomy.
Let's skip over that part, please

Papaver Field [Mage] 346478

>>346473
"And now it sounds hard again."
Frown at him.
"But I will try my best now."
Smile at him.
"Now, I think there is something we should talk about…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346479

>>346475
I'll smile softly.
"It can be, really. Never could appreciate it, though, until you came along and gave me a reason to."

DM 346481

>>346476
Very well.
With Burning most pleased with your gifts of love, she fell asleep next to you on her bed.
>>346478
"Mhm?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346482

>>346479
I smile back
"Ah… I-I'm just happy more ponies a-appreciate the night now…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346483

>>346481
I'll just let her sleep now.
Kiss her forehead for nice dreams.
Then tuck her in, get the chair out of the way of the door, and leave through the window.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346485

>>346482
I'll nod.
"I'll have to show you the farm one day."

DM 346487

>>346483
You're back on the yard, and can see a grumpy Springwind returning towards the dorm

Sidus [Rogue] 346488

>>346487
Hehe
I just hope she won't wake her up.
She's cute when she's asleep.~

Head back to my room real quick.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346489

>>346485
I keep smiling
"I'd like that…"

DM 346490

>>346488
And there you are.
…hm. The weapon rack really has been looking nicer than it did when you first got there.
Anyway, what did you need?

Sidus [Rogue] 346491

>>346490
Huh.
Looks my sheer presence creates improvement.
Wash my hooves in out private bath, first

Then, Jon isn't here, is he?
Any clue where he might be?

Papaver Field [Mage] 346492

>>346481
"No, nothing. It was a silly thing."
Do I happen to notice the two lovebirds over yonder?
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

DM 346493

>>346491
The plot tells you he is probably eating with his gluttonous marefriend.
>>346492
"You sure?
You don't need to keep secrets from me."

Papaver Field [Mage] 346495

>>346493
"It's about Balsa, but we already went over that.
I just spoke with a friend of mine and got worried again."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346496

>>346489
"Mhm…"
I'll keep working on my lunch, blushing a little bit since I basically just asked Star to meet my family.

Sidus [Rogue] 346497

>>346493
That's not the plot, that's my A++ perception.
I don't have to worry about not being welcome since my presence always does good to the general air of wherever I am.

Find him.

DM 346501

>>346495
"I really fear for that guy. He had good potential… why does he insist to waste it in his efforts to earn some stupid false respect…"
>>346497
Seems be is in the dining hall!
So is everyone else, more or less.

Papaver Field [Mage] 346503

>>346501
"Maybe he needs a bunch of good friends, then he'll stop caring about respect."

Sidus [Rogue] 346504

>>346501
>>346496
Walk up next to them.
"Hey there!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346505

>>346504
Oh thank the stars, a distraction.
"Hey there Sidus. How'd it go with that new friend of yours, miss Springwind?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346506

>>346496
I skittishly move my hoof to try and stealthily hold it until >>346504 comes along and I retract it
"S-Sidus… hi!"

DM 346507

>>346503
"He needs to learn to let go of his own delusions. He needs to understand that being the first at something is no the only path to success.
And that there is more to life than that.
But I doubt he'd listen to reason. At least not from someone he does not look up to.
And sadly, I no longer qualify for that title."

Sidus [Rogue] 346509

>>346506
"What's up?"

>>346505
"Burning scared her and she stormed off cursing our sneakyness?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346510

>>346509
"J-just eating something a-after practice…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 346511

>>346507
"Yeah, and for him to look up to somepony they have to be the sneaky type just like him."
Drop my head on the table.
"Going nowhere. I can try talking to him, maybe."
Oh look, everyone was there all along.
Motion to Leaf and go sit over there.
>>346510
"Hey Star."

Sidus [Rogue] 346513

>>346510
"You had practice? How did it go?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346514

>>346509
I'll chuckle a bit.
"You two musta been made for each other."

DM 346516

>>346511
Leaf gets up
"I need to think a bit.
Meet me later ok? I got some… old memories to sort through. Maybe there is still something I can do for Balsa. Even if it's not much."

NPCs OFFLINE

NEXT TIME ON PALADINS
A PROPER SESSION

Sidus [Rogue] 346517

>>346514
"That's what she said!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346520

>>346511
"H-hi Vera…"

>>346513
"Oh… uh…"
I look at Jon expectantly

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346523

>>346513
>>346520
"She did pretty good. Once I got her to stop holding back, she managed to get around my shield pretty well. And she's not half-bad at parrying either."

Sidus [Rogue] 346527

>>346523
>>346520
"That's good to hear! Maybe I could teach her a bit about weapons someday?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346530

>>346523
I blush at the praise
"Oh…"

>>346527
"Uh… I-I guess…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346532

>>346527
"That's up to her. I know there's only so much I can teach her."

Sidus [Rogue] 346534

>>346532
"You can teach her in shields! I never use those. No need for them."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346535

>>346534
"She might be pretty good at fencing, though. Defense instructor said that it's often an overlooked method of defense, since most ponies take cover and expect shields to save them."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346541

>>346535
I fiddle my hooves awkwardly as he talks about me

Sidus [Rogue] 346543

>>346541
>>346535
"We can work on that then. Any other weapon she tried?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346545

>>346543
"I dunno."
I'll turn to Star.
"Anything you've tried, or would like to try?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346548

>>346543
>>346545
I shake my head
"I-I haven't… I've only held a sword…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346552

>>346548
"The armory is full of fun stuff! Why haven't you tried something else?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346555

>>346552
"Because… I-I don't really know a lot about w-weapons so… uh… I d-don't know…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346556

>>346555
"Well, next practice session we can look through the armory. Who knows, you might find a weapon that you really like using, or just feels right."

Sidus [Rogue] 346558

>>346555
"Come on, be experimental! You might find something you love! A claymore? A rapier? A warhammer? Maybe some dual blades?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346559

>>346558
"I… I don't know… I never tried any of that…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346567

>>346559
"Don't you think it's time to do so then?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346570

>>346567
"M-maybe…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346571

>>346570
"Is that a yes or a yes?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346573

>>346571
I gulp
"Uh… y-yes… okay…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346575

>>346573
"I'll be there too, so don't worry too much. I might try my hoof at something else as well, just to be used to the idea of using something new."

Sidus [Rogue] 346576

>>346573
"Good! When?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346577

>>346575
"And you can be our training dummy too!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346578

>>346577
I'll roll my eyes.
"I think they'll actually let us use the ponnequins."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346579

>>346576
"Uh…"
I look at my empty plate
"W-we could do it now if y-you want me to…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346580

>>346578
"Yeah, but everypony can hit those.
You'll have to try and parry Star's hit so we can see if it works."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346584

>>346580
I'll just roll my eyes again.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346589

>>346580
I just keep sitting there and watching the both of them talk

Sidus [Rogue] 346592

>>346584
I chuckle.
"I'm serious. Or you can't take a hit for your marefriend?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346594

>>346592
"Of course I can."

Sidus [Rogue] 346597

>>346594
"Then it's not too much to ask for, is it?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346598

>>346597
I'll shrug.
"It's up to her, really."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346599

>>346598
"Uh… I-I don't really want to h-hurt Jon…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346600

>>346599
"They say love hurts. And it's just training weapons, and he'll have his guard up."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346603

>>346600
"And," I'll add, "you're a healer. Anything that might happen, you can fix easily."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346604

>>346600
>>346603
"B-but… I still d-don't like doing it…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346607

>>346604
"Not if he wants it either? You don't want to better yourself?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346609

>>346604
"Well, I don't much like the idea of it either, but I did promise to help you train. And if that means I've got to take a few love taps, then so be it."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346611

>>346607
"B-but… can't I just use the ponequins?"

>>346609
I just look at him with big sad eyes

Sidus [Rogue] 346613

>>346611
"Those are not real. They can't sidestep or parry."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346616

>>346611
I'll shrug a little, and then whisper to Star.
"The hugging more than makes up for it."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346619

>>346613
"But…"

>>346616
I blush
"O-okay then…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346621

>>346619
>>346616
"Is that settled then?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346622

>>346621
I'll nod.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346624

>>346621
I nod as well

Sidus [Rogue] 346626

>>346622
>>346624
I smirk.
"Great! Is now good?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346627

>>346626
"If Star's ready, we might be able to fit it in before the next class."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346630

>>346626
>>346627
"I guess… O-okay…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346632

>>346630
>>346627
I clap my hooves.
"Off to the training grounds we go!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346638

>>346632
Off we go, then.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346640

>>346632
Follow him

Sidus [Rogue] 346641

>>346638
>>346640
Once there, point at the armory for training weapons.
"Go on. Take a pick."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346644

>>346641
I'll start perusing the racks.
Axe? No… Spear? Nah. Mace? Might hurt too much if he makes me swing back at Star. Hammer? Same problem. Hmm.
"Nah, I think I'll just stick with my sword. Maybe put down the shield for this exercise, though."

Sidus [Rogue] 346648

>>346644
"Yeah, I was talking to her. Though you can try something too after if you feel like it."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346649

>>346641
"Uh…"

I look at the large assortiment of various weapons displayed in front of me. Maces, hammers, longswords, shortswords, axes, halberds, voulges, morningstars, daggers, knives, sabres,… All sorts of weapons!

And I have no idea which to pick!

I look at Jon helplessly

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346651

>>346648
"Thought it might be a good change of pace, but… well, if you make me start swinging back…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346652

>>346649
"No Star, don't think! Feel! Feel for which weapon is calling for you!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346654

>>346649
"Just go down the rack, Star. See which ones feel right, and which ones don't."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346661

>>346652
>>346654
"O-okay… I'll try…"
I meekly look over the entire collection, completely intimidated by the overabundance of choice.

Eventually I pick up a normal broadsword, just like the one mom gave me for my last birthday!

Sidus [Rogue] 346663

>>346661
I nod.
"Mhmm. Is that it?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346673

>>346663
"Y-yes… uh… I guess it is…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346675

>>346673
"Good. Come a bit closer. You don't need a shield with that."
Get out my own weapon, is sword mode.
"Take a few swings with it in the air. Get a feel for it."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346677

>>346675
I take a step close and swing it aimlessly a few times '4d10'

Roll #1 7, 4, 1, 7 = 19

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346680

>>346677
Looks like I cut myself slightly in the process

Sidus [Rogue] 346681

>>346680
"…are you sure this is what you were looking for?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346684

>>346681
I look at the cut sadly
"I-I don't know…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346685

>>346684
"Well, what feels the most comfortable in your hooves? What just seems to fit?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346686

>>346684
"Come on, don't be like that. Be confident like how I taught you? Are you sure you wanted this, or you were just afraid to pick something more 'extreme'?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346688

>>346685
"I d-don't use my hooves…"

>>346686
I shrug
"Mom u-uses swords like these as w-well so I thought… well…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346690

>>346688
"Well, give it a shot. And Star, you aren't your mother. See what works best for you."

Sidus [Rogue] 346691

>>346688
"Just what I thought. You are not her! Be experimental! Be brave!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346700

>>346690
>>346691
"Okay…"
I walk back over to the rack and look at the selection for a while longer. Eventually picking up a warhammer and returning to the two

Sidus [Rogue] 346705

>>346700
I smirk.
"Good, good! Let me get one real quick."
I grab one as well.

"Now, do you remember what's the purpose of heavy weapons like the warhammer?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346710

>>346705
"U-uh…"
I shift away my gaze from him
"Heavy… h-hitting?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346711

>>346710
I furrow my eyebrows.
"Star. Be serious. I even told it in combat class too!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346713

>>346711
"I… I…"
My eyes widen
"I d-don't have my notes from that c-class with me h-here… sorry…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346715

>>346713
I sigh.
"Shame, Star, shame. It's easy. Forget the notes then! Use logic! I'll help."
Plant my hammer's hilt to the ground so the heavy part is up.
"What happens when you try to stab someone in heavy armor with a sword?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346721

>>346715
"Uh… well I-I guess it d-doesn't really hurt as much?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346724

>>346721
I sigh.
"Are you even listening during combat training? If you were wearing big metal plates, a blade would just ping off harmlessly. This is where a weapon like a hammer comes in. Can you do the math why?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346725

>>346724
"Sorry… I-I just don't have my notes with me… b-b-but I guess a h-hammer would hurt m-more in that case…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346727

>>346725
"Would it? Why?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346728

>>346727
"Uh… because…"
I glance over at Jon

Sidus [Rogue] 346731

>>346728
I glance over him as well.
"Don't you dare."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346732

>>346728
I'll sit.
>>346731
"Wouldn't dream of it. I know Star will get it eventually."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346736

>>346731
>>346732
I sigh weakly
"I d-don't know… because they're h-heavy?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346739

>>346736
"You are supposed to be smart, aren't you? You noted this down. Think. Yes, they are heavy, why is that good?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346744

>>346739
"Well… it hurts m-more that way… s-so it does more damage… I guess."

Sidus [Rogue] 346745

>>346744
"Hurts more… If you don't want to take this serioulsy just say it and we can all go home."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346748

>>346745
I droop my ears sadly
"S-sorry… I just d-don't know what to say…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346751

>>346748
"Then think before speaking. Just a bit. Or are all your smarts only in your notes?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346755

>>346751
I pleadingly look at Jon again

Sidus [Rogue] 346756

>>346755
"Star, no."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346757

>>346755
"You can do it, Star. I know you were paying attention in class. Remember what the battlemaster did to the dummy."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346758

>>346757
"Well… h-he crushed its head with a heavy m-mace…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346759

>>346758
"Go on."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346762

>>346759
"Well… they're also hard to hoofle… and s-slower to swing… and you need to put a lot of p-power into u-using it effectively…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346763

>>346762
"And what does that power do?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346764

>>346762
I nod.
"You're getting there, but these are the drawbacks, what is the main thing that makes them worth using over lighter, faster edged weapons?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346766

>>346763
>>346764
"S-shatter armor?"

Sidus [Rogue] 346767

>>346766
I nod.
"Exactly. See? You can do if you want. It might be slow, but it's perfect against foes who are behind good defenses, like plated armor. Where a blade would fail, a blunt weapon will easily smash the armor, crushing the pony inside. Moreover, the very armor could prove a danger to them if it collapses inside from a blow."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346769

>>346767
"Oh… o-okay…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346774

>>346769
"So? Are you going to swing it?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346778

>>346774
"Oh… uh… r-right!"
Try and give it a few swings '4d10'

Roll #1 7, 10, 5, 4 = 26

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346783

>>346778
Aside from a few clumsy swings, I manage pretty damn well it seems

Sidus [Rogue] 346784

>>346778
"Not bad, not bad at all. Want to try it out on Jon?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346785

>>346783
"So, how's it feel, Star?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346788

>>346785
"F-fine…"

>>346784
"Uh… I don't k-know if I should… it's heavy…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346790

>>346788
"Well, give it a few swings, Star. We'll see how I do."
Sword in mouth, I'll assume a ready stance. Guard up '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

346791

>>346790
I gulp and try a half-hearted soft swing

Roll #1 2 - 2 = 0

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346794

>>346791
I step forward to swing, only to trip over my own hooves and fall over face first onto the ground, dropping the warhammer from my magical grip
"… ow."

Sidus [Rogue] 346795

>>346791
Can I stop her before she hurts herself?
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sidus [Rogue] 346796

>>346795
>>346794
Too little too late.
I sigh.
"You alright?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346797

>>346794
"Mmrph, rrph-" I'll spit out my sword handle. "Star, are you alright?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346798

>>346796
>>346797
I get up and rub my bloodied nose with a hoof, blushing in embarrassment
"… Y-yes…"

Sidus [Rogue] 346799

>>346798
"Tell me that was just a rock and not from the swing?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346803

>>346798
"Ah, geez, you're bleeding."
Digging through the pockets of my uniform, I'll try and find some form of kerchief. Luckily, I had one of the rags I use to rub down my armor.
"Here, nose down, and hold this against it until it stops."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346806

>>346799
"I… I tripped over m-myself…"
I look down in shame

>>346803
I look at the kerchief with an odd expression
"Uh…"
Heal myself '1d10+2'

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

Sidus [Rogue] 346807

>>346806
"Want to try again?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346808

>>346806
"Oh, right. Forgot. Eh-heh."
I'll sheepishly put the cloth back into my pocket.
"Don't usually have healing magic on hoof, so I just sorta… went with what I knew."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346810

>>346808
I give him a thankful smile
"It's okay… I-I appreciate the thought… really."

>>346807
I nod sheepishly and try the same thing again '1d10-2'

Roll #1 10 - 2 = 8

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346813

>>346810
Looks like I was a little too enthusiastic to do better and delivered a decently hard blow.
I gasp and drop the warhammer, then quickly hug Jonagold
"I-I'm so sorry!"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346814

>>346810
>>346813
I'll be taken a bit by surprise, since I hadn't been ready for either the hit, nor the hug.
"It's okay, I'm fine. You just got me by surprise, is all. Still, that was a good hit."

Sidus [Rogue] 346816

>>346813
"See, that was professional."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346822

>>346814
"O-okay…"
I release the hug and take a step back

>>346816
"I don't k-know if I like this…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346825

>>346822
"Well, we've got a whole armory to try until you find one you think fits you the best."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 346826

>>346825
"I think… I think I'd r-rather have something smaller… a-and a shield…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 346833

>>346826
"Well, what do you think you'd like? You can use quite a few things with a shield, after all."

DM 347841

Shit b happenin' yo.

We can warp ahead to the actual Hearts and Hooves day when appropriate.

Sidus can, at will, meet Balsawood again.
Leaf Blade has finished his thing, and can be talked to for more info on Balsawood.

Sidus [Rogue] 347842

>>347841
We will timewarp back to this training later.

Let's say I run into him.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347843

>>347841
Uh… I guess I'll go back to the medical wing to see if I can help out or something

Papaver Field [Mage] 347845

>>347841
I should go and see Leaf then, to hear about the thing.

DM 347846

>>347842
In your general wandering about, the same second year student from before slams into you again as he is looking up at the ceiling.
>>347843
nurse Returning Slab greets you
"Ah, cadet Star, welcome back."
>>347845
You find him leaving the dorm
"Hey again Vera."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347847

>>347846
"Hi miss nurse…"
I look around
"Uh… is t-there something you w-want me to do?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347848

>>347846
Nod at him.
"You said there could be a way to stop Balsawood…"

Sidus [Rogue] 347849

>>347846
"Hey! Can't you ever watch where you are going?"

DM 347850

>>347847
"Well if you want to be helpful you can help me clean some instruments."
>>347848
"I did.
I went through some old things, and tried thinking back to how he used to be.
I could only think of two things that might sway his mind. Someone he saw as a superior -and someone he saw as a rival.
If he still has his old pride, he would probably drop everything just to one-up someone he sees as a competitor. And be willing to listen to someone he saw as better than himself."
>>347849
"Oh. You again.
What is it with you and getting in the way?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347852

>>347850
"Easy! I will just kick him around until he picks a bone with me then!"
Grin.

Sidus [Rogue] 347853

>>347850
"Me?! Getting in your way?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347854

>>347850
"Okay…"
I follow her lead and help her clean
"S-so… how is that stallion doing now?"

DM 347856

>>347852
"Are you sure you're up to the task though?
He can be rather persistent."
>>347853
"Exactly. You've quite a knack for it."
It seems Burning has snuck up on him, and can be signaled for a surprise attack.
>>347854
"Slowly recovering. Probably won't walk for days though.
Nurse Steamship is tending to him now. For better or for worse."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347857

>>347856
"If you want something done well, do it yourself, no?"

Sidus [Rogue] 347858

>>347856
Let's wait with that.
"You weren't even watching where you were going! And again, My way is probably a lot more significant than your way!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347859

>>347856
"N-Nurse Steamship?"
I cock my head questioningly

DM 347860

Short pause, I need to go talk to my parents about dogsitting next week as they travel and turns out NOW is the only viable time.

DM 347877

>>347857
"If you want something done well, send the most capable one for the job seems more accurate."
>>347858
"Somehow I doubt it cadet. At least mine is a path none have walked before."
>>347859
"Just one of the other nurses. I don't like her all that much is all."

Sidus [Rogue] 347878

>>347877
"You doubt that mine is? At least mine is greater than 'First pony to bump into everypony else!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347881

>>347877
"So I should just look for a cocky, relentless pony who will costantly try to one up Balsa?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347882

>>347877
"Oh… W-why not? Uh… if y-you don't mind me asking…"

DM 347883

>>347878
"Heh. You got a big mouth on you. Got anything to back it up with?"
>>347881
"That could work.
Or one that can surpass him."
>>347882
"I guess I just find her a little creepy."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347885

>>347883
"Oh… uh… w-why so?"

Sidus [Rogue] 347886

>>347883
"Many. You don't want to try me. You might find yourself planting your face on the floor."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347888

>>347883
"I'm not going to look for somepony to sneak around like he does. That would only double the trouble."

DM 347889

>>347885
"I just don't like the way she acts. It doesn't feel proper."
>>347886
"Ha. As if. What are you going to do, hit me?"
>>347888
"Depends on the intentions of out sneaker. But really, I can hardly offer more.
Beyond just exposing him and getting him thrown out, but I'd rather not see that happen."

Sidus [Rogue] 347890

>>347889
"I won't. I don't even need to."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347891

>>347889
"Me neither. It's my fault if he decided to do this again after all.
But I do know one pony made for the job…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347892

And then things happened. While the others are busy, I guess I'll head to the dorm room.

DM 347893

>>347890
"So you have cronies or something? Is that supposed to impress me, warlord?"
>>347891
"Oh?"
>>347892
Welcome to your dorm room.
The scantly clad harem girls are sadly not available at this time.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347894

>>347893
Wait, you mean that was an option? Dang, I missed out. Might as well tidy up a bit while I'm in here.

Sidus [Rogue] 347895

>>347893
I wave my hand.
"Pff, as if I used thugs. You'd just fall over when I say so by some mysterious hidden force. You could call it my destiny."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347896

>>347893
"A guy I clashed swords with a few times. Can't stand a loss and will do anything to show he's the best.
Also, he boasts like his life depends on it."

DM 347897

>>347894
You may recruit harem girls at the harem rental store.
You make your bed, and put away some of Sidus' worst laundry.
>>347895
He rolls his eyes
>>347896
"Sounds perfect. When can I meet him?"

Sidus [Rogue] 347898

>>347897
Nod at Burning to trip him but remain hidden afterwards.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347899

>>347889
I cock my head
"I don't u-understand… Is she m-mean?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347900

>>347897
I'll shake my head.
"The guy's a mess. I almost pity miss Heart for what he's going to make her clean."
This is where the medical letter comes in, correct?

Papaver Field [Mage] 347902

>>347897
"When we find him…"
Let's go look for Sidus.

Nock [Tracker] 347903

>>347902
Is it H&H day still? Where is everyone?

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347904

>>347903
Not yet
Star is in the medical wing

Papaver Field [Mage] 347905

>>347903
H&H is in a few days. We are around. Trying to save Balsawood right now.

DM 347906

>>347898
Stealth is broken upon taking an action.
Burning sweeps his legs from under him, and then tries to make it to a hiding place
Burning hiding '1d10'
Balsa's spot check '1d10'
>>347899
"No, just devious."
She closes one eye to check for stains on a beaker
>>347900
It's on the bed. There is a note attached
[From: Canterlot Medical Academy / To: Cadet Jonagold Apple]
[Please come see me when possible. Nurse Steamship]
>>347902
You can run into him as soon as you want to break up the scene
>>347903
The day itself is a few days from now

Roll #1 6 = 6 / Roll #2 10 = 10

DM 347907

>>347906
Balsa gets up, shooting Burning a look
"No cronies, huh?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347908

>>347906
Well, let's read that letter.

Sidus [Rogue] 347909

>>347907
>>347906
"That's such a mean word. I prefer 'partner'."
Smirk at him.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347910

>>347907
>>347906
Well look at that.
Stand back with Leaf.
"They met already…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347911

>>347906
"Oh…"
I go silent, not sure what else to say in a situation like this, and continue cleaning

Nock [Tracker] 347913

Well, I suppose I'll stop by the medical wing to see if they have horse aspirin for that headache I mentioned earlier.

Because I don't trust magical headache-be-gone.

DM 347914

>>347909
"Much the same. She is a sneaky one though I'll give her that. Didn't even realize she was there."
>>347908
[Cadet. After reviewing the notes sent to us, we consider you a viable option for experimental treatment. We require you to sign the attached agreement, send in a few more tests, and report to the Medical Academy in around two weeks time. Once we have tested the new samples, we will send you a followup letter containing your temporary medical pardon and the exact date of the procedures.
-Chief of Research Dr. Stable]
>>347910
"I see… Should we watch or intervene?"
>>347911
"Really I guess it's none of my business. I'm just kinda nosy by nature is all…"
>>347913
Looks like Star is here too, helping a nurse clean some instruments
"Hello Cadet. What ails you?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347915

>>347914
"They seem to be getting along just fine to me."

Sidus [Rogue] 347916

>>347914
"She's good at that. Of course, I spotted her the moment she started following me when we first encountered."

Nock [Tracker] 347918

>>347914
Nod at Star as I come in.

"Persistent headache. Do you have anything for it, ma'am?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347919

>>347914
Well, that's fairly prompt, I suppose. Taking the letter and the note, I'll head to the medical wing.
Though they will be in my pockets, and not carried about in the open.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347920

>>347914
"W-well… nurses are supposed to be n-nice and caring…"

>>347918
I wave back at her with a sheepish grin

DM 347923

>>347916
"The socks are cute.
Well, a lot about her seemed cute."
>>347915
"Let's hope so"
>>347918
"Oh I hate those. Terrible things. I do have things. Any preference? I got all kinds. Big pills, small pills, sugar pills, magnets you put on your ears, needles you put on your hooves, pills you put in your butt…"
>>347919
Welcome to the medical wing. Nock and Star are here too.
"I'll be right with you Cadet."
>>347920
"Oh she is nice and caring. Believe me. A little too nice and caring."

Sidus [Rogue] 347924

>>347923
"Of course she is cute. And clever, too. Knows who to follow."
Keep confidently grinning at him.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347925

>>347923
Oh dear, this just got a lot more embarrassing. But, they don't know what I'm here for, so I'm fine.
I'll wave a little at Star.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347927

>>347923
"Oh…"
My eyes widen
"O-oh dear…"

>>347923
>>347925
I wave back sheepishly

Nock [Tracker] 347928

>>347923
Unsure whether or not it's a joke, I reply, "…Small pills?"

>>347925
Politely move out of the doorway to let Jon pass. Conveniently don't make eye contact, though. Forgiven or not, I'm still a little upset with him.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347929

>>347923
"Should we keep watching like this?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347930

>>347928
"Hey, Nock, sorry about that argument the other day. It must have done some good, though, since Vera was really happy that you finally decided to accept her magic."

DM 347932

>>347924
"Really? Is she into short ponies or something?"
He turns to face Burning
"Come on over here. Introduce yourself."
Burning looks at you questioningly
>>347928
"Right. Here you go, take the whole jar. I need like five of the things to fix me up anyway."
She hoofs you a jar
>>347925
"So, what's your trouble then?"
>>347929
"You tell me…"

Nock [Tracker] 347933

>>347930
Give him a frown. "It didn't have anything to do with you."

I want to say more, but we're in polite company with the nurse and Star. No point in arguing here.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347934

>>347932
"He is your friend! You tell me!"

Nock [Tracker] 347935

>>347932
Smile and accept it. "Thank you, ma'am."

DM 347936

>>347934
"I would hardly call him that."
>>347935
"No problem. Ask if you need more."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347937

>>347933
I'll shrug.
"If you say so. I'm just glad she's back to her old, confident self again. Though, I'll probably never be able to beat in sparring practice again…"
>>347932
"I was told I needed to see Nurse Steamship about something. Is she here?"

Sidus [Rogue] 347938

>>347932
I nod at her. I bet she can tell him how great I am.

"No, he is into great ponies with great destinies such as myself!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347939

>>347937
"W-wait! Why d-do you need her for?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347940

>>347939
"It was something related to the physical. There was apparently cause for concern on a few things, and there were a few tests that needed to be run. The results came back, so I was told to come here."
I'll smile a bit at Star.
"It's nothing serious or life-threatening, though, so it shouldn't take but so long."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347941

>>347936
Start boiling a bit inside in rage.
"Okay. We leave. I'll ask Jon about this."
And so away we went. To look for Jon!

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347942

>>347940
"B-but… can't miss Slab h-help you instead?"
I point at the nurse in the current room

Nock [Tracker] 347944

>>347942
"You could probably help, too. You have healing hooves, right?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347945

>>347942
I'll shrug.
"All I know was I was told to see nurse Steamship. But is Nurse Slab is here, I suppose that works too."

DM 347946

>>347937
She raises a brow
"Cadet Apple, right?
Yeah she's um… waiting.
Exam room is over there."
>>347938
"Well I'm sure we'll get along just fine then."
He pushes you aside a little and turns to Burning
"So, do tell a little about yourself"
"Cadet Burning Heart. First Year. Skilled in silent movement, climbing, hiding, eavesdropping, lockpicking, that sort.
Here to straighten out my views of the world and earn a backbone."
Balsawood grins and nods
"Paladin Balsawood. Second year. Eldest son of a revered family, master of stealth and tactical thinking. Here to prove my value once more in a new field, and to do that which none before me have done."
Burning looks a little surprised. Pleasantly.
>>347941
To the medical ward!
Everyone is here it seems.
>>347945
Steamship pokes her head out of the exam room door
"Is Cadet Apple here yet?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347948

>>347944
I nod quickly
"I-I could!"

Sidus [Rogue] 347950

>>347946
Nudge Burning away slightly and stand in front of him.
"All right, that's enough. Bumping into others is not an achievement or new field."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347952

>>347944
>>347948
I'll shake my head.
"N-no, this isn't a wound of any kind, it's… kinda different."
>>347946
"And there she is. I'll be right back, don't worry. This won't take long at all."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347953

>>347946
Quickly have a glance around at everypony.
"Wow."

Nock [Tracker] 347954

>>347953
Give her a smile and direct her to my side.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347955

>>347952
I look at him fearfully as he walks off

Papaver Field [Mage] 347957

>>347954
Scoot over.
"Nock, this is Leaf Blade, he's the pony that helps me with… That."

DM 347958

>>347950
"That much you're right about. I have my eyes set on a far higher prize."
>>347952
"Come on in Cadet. I trust you got the papers?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347959

>>347958
I'll nod.

Sidus [Rogue] 347960

>>347958
"And whatever that could be?"

Nock [Tracker] 347961

>>347957
"Oh." I remark dismissively and lean in a little more so that our flanks make contact at the cutie mark.

"What brings you here, Vera?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347962

>>347957
"Huh?"
I turn to look at Vera and Leaf
"O-oh, it's y-you! I-I've heard of you!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347963

>>347961
Nod over at Jon.
"Looking for him. Sidus has made a new friend and… He's a dangerous one."

DM 347964

>>347959
"Good. Well they sent me a list of test they need done. Let me go get some things while you disrobe."
She goes rummage a cupboard.
The list is on the table.
>>347960
"Seeing firsthand the greatest secrets of this academy and getting away with it."
>>347962
"You have?
I hope it was mostly positive."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347965

>>347964
I'll take a look at the list while shuffling out of my uniform.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347966

>>347964
I nod enthusiastically, completely forgetting about my previous worries
"You know and teach conjuration m-magic!"

Sidus [Rogue] 347967

>>347964
"And that secret is?"

DM 347971

>>347965
[Test required from Cadet Apple
-Blood sample

-Measurements

-Ejaculate sample

-Personal statement
~stamina
~recovery time
~thrust strength
Signed: Dr. Stable]
>>347966
"Well, not teach per se, I'm just a student after all. But yes."
>>347967
"Wouldn't you like to know?
See some of us actually care enough to do a bit of research on our own."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347973

>>347971
…Are those last three things in Nurse Steamship's hoofwriting? '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

DM 347974

>>347973
Well they sure seem to have been written as an afterthought by someone

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347975

>>347971
"But you h-helped Vera!"

Sidus [Rogue] 347977

>>347971
"If only you can do it there's no harm telling it, now is there?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347978

>>347974
Well, I've got no real reason to be too suspicious of the nurse. She's a professional, right?
I guess I'll just sit and wait until she's ready.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347979

>>347975
"And how!"
Grin wide.

DM 347981

>>347975
"In a way. But I couldn't say, teach a whole class or anything.
It was mostly just sharing what I had learned myself. And about myself."
>>347977
"Now I would hate to get you into trouble, kid."
>>347978
She soon trots over with a few beakers, a syringe, a measure and a stopwatch.
"Okay Cadet, lets get started. I hope you're not too afraid of blood? I just need a little sample."
>>347979
He blushes visibly
"Ahem… yeah."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347983

>>347981
"Go ahead, ma'am."

Sidus [Rogue] 347984

>>347981
"Yeah, yeah, cut the crap and get to the point instead."

Papaver Field [Mage] 347985

>>347981
Look at Jon, then at Star.
"Is he.. What is happening?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347986

>>347985
I'm in a different room.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347987

>>347986
Sorry about that.
>>347985
So change this to:
"Where is Jon anyway?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347988

>>347981
"Still… that's really c-cool!"

>>347987
My ears perk up
"Uh, h-he's with that nurse… S-Steamship… for tests…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 347990

>>347988
"Oh… Is… Does he have a cold?"

DM 347991

>>347983
She draws a little blood with the needs, checks the sample and puts it aside
"Mhm. Good. That should do well."
She then puts a little bandage over the hole
"Now I need to get some measurements. Don't mind me.
If you want to speed things along, I will also need your own statement about what results you desire from the procedure. So you can write those down, or just tell them as I work. Is that ok?"
She levitates a quill and paper to you, grabs the measure and dives down under you.
>>347984
"Impatient. Tut tut. You'd never reach the Collection with a hot head like that."
>>347987
"Cadet Apple? He had some examination. He's over there in the exam room."
>>347988
"Thanks…"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 347992

>>347990
"I don't know… h-he didn't really tell…"

Sidus [Rogue] 347993

>>347991
"Is that a challenge?"

DM 347994

>>347993
"Not really. I don't need some amateur messing up my scene."
He looks past you at Burning
"A partner might be nice though."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 347995

>>347991
I'll decide to write them down.
Increased length/girth, as well as output. I'd like it at least proportional to my size. I don't know if you folk can test fertility rates, but I'd like to know if I'd be able to sire foals.

Papaver Field [Mage] 347997

>>347992
"Sounds strange…"

Turn to Nock.
"Are you here because you were concerned with Jon, too?"

Sidus [Rogue] 347998

>>347994
I narrow my eyes.
"You can forget about it. And who said I'm going to mess up your scene? I might just get there before you."

Nock [Tracker] 347999

>>347997
I hold up the pills.

"Headache."

DM 348000

>>347995
"Soft size… hm… hm hm hm. Right.
Cadet, please get hard for me."
>>347998
"You don't even know what I'm talking about.
And I believe the choice is down to the lovely lady Heart, not you. She isn't your property now is she?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348001

>>347999
Frown in worry and move in closer.
"Hey you didn't tell me! How bad is it?"
Start nuzzling her questioningly.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348002

>>347999
>>348001
"I could have inured the pain with a spell…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348003

>>348002
Smile sheepishly at her.
"Spell can go wrong at times…"

Sidus [Rogue] 348004

>>348000
"Tell me and I could get it for you by next week. And no, she's not, but she knows well enough who to follow."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348005

>>348000
Uhm. Well, here goes. I guess she needs it for the measurements. So, happy thoughts. Star thoughts.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Nock [Tracker] 348006

>>348001
"It's not awful, just persistent…"

>>348002
Frown. "I'd rather not use magic."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348007

>>348006
Stop myself for a second.
"Y-yeah. Right. Magic could go w-wrong or worse…"
Look at the ground, slightly ashamed.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348008

>>348003
>>348006
>>348007
"Oh… O-okay…"

Nock [Tracker] 348009

>>348007
Nuzzle her back. "I'll be here to keep it under control. You don't have to trouble yourself about it."

DM 348010

>>348005
"Oooh~
That'll do. Good boy. Ahem. Cadet.
…right. Well that's it for measures. Now then…"
She levitates over a beaker
"Do forgive me if this feels awkward."
'1d10'
>>348004
"Get it for me? Is that a bet?"

Roll #1 7 = 7

Sidus [Rogue] 348012

>>348010
"Well, not for you. Just to show you that I can."

DM 348013

>>348012
"You do know what happened to the last one who tried, right?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348014

>>348013
"Failed, probably. I won't."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348016

>>348010
Wow, that feels… really nice. But am I supposed to be holding out, or letting it go? I think I'm supposed to be letting it go…

DM 348017

>>348014
"Not failed.
Killed for succeeding.
Have you really never heard the story of Highflanks?"
>>348016
That you are
"Cadet?
Should I maybe help you out a little more?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Sidus [Rogue] 348019

>>348017
"Not really, but do tell."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348020

>>348009
"Thanks… For… Well, all that stuff."
Look away and go red in face.
No way I get all sentimental in front of Stal and Leaf.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348021

>>348017
"N-no, I think it's…" '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348022

>>348021
Yep, there it goes.

DM 348025

>>348019
"You really are a piece of work. It's only the most known story of this academy in the circles.
Well I'll try to keep it short and not use too many big words for you.
Highfanks was a promising paladin who by his third year had seen every place in this school, with or without permission. All but one. The Headmaster's Collection. Said to be the place where he stored his most legendary artifacts he trusted nobody but himself with. But Highflanks, through hard work and determination found the path to it, solved the locks protecting it, and entered.
The next day he was reported dead, and the faculty refused to speak of how he died.
They say the Headmaster killed him in person."
>>348021
>>348022
"Good job~
There is certainly nothing wrong with thickness, smell or taste. Seems better than last time.
Now then…"
She levitates the beaker away
"We'll need to measure recovery time."
Her grip is still as firm as ever on you.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348028

>>348025
"W-what do you mean 'taste'? Why would the doctors taste… that?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348031

>>348025
I wave my hoof.
"He got caught then. Won't happen to me."

DM 348032

>>348028
"To ensure no excess sugar is present, which may indicate deficiency in metabolism or glandular issues.
Hm… still soft. Lets see if we can get you up again."
She clicks the stopwatch and dives back down
'1d10'
>>348031
"And where do you think you'd start looking?"

Roll #1 5 = 5

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348033

>>348032
"H-hey! W-what are you doing down there?"
I'll try to scoot back a little.

DM 348034

>>348033
"Testing for recovery time. This is a required point of data to ensure no performance is lost after the procedure. Now stop fidgeting, it's flopping all over and I can't get a good hold."
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348035

>>348034
Well, she's got a pretty good grip on it. Let's see what happens. '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Sidus [Rogue] 348036

>>348032
"The Headmaster's Collection, duh."

DM 348037

>>348035
"Remarkable~
Well, there seems to be no problem there.
Ok cadet, next up we need to measure your thrust force and stamina, to ensure the process takes muscle strength into account."
She gives you a reassuring pat and climbs on the exam table
>>348036
"And how might you find your way there, smartass?
See, it took me quite a while to even find out where to start looking. But I did succeed.
I got quite a head start on you."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348038

>>348037
"M-ma'am?"
I'm sweating bullets now.

Sidus [Rogue] 348039

>>348037
"I could say that I know where it is, it doesn't prove anything."

DM 348040

>>348038
"Yes, Cadet?"
It seems the medical uniform she picked for the day was just a coat…
>>348039
"So you're asking for help getting started?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348041

>>348040
"No, I'm just saying you don't actually know it. And even if I did, if you were so confident I'd fail you could just tell it, couldn't you?"

DM 348042

>>348041
"I don't particularly want to make my own work harder by having them raise security after they catch you."
Burning nudges you

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348043

>>348040
"I-I-I can't… not…"
Think fast, Apple. Waiting room's full of mares, and Star to boot. You run out there naked with yourself at attention like this, and things are gonna get messy real quick.
Clearing my throat, I'll try and calm myself down. '1d10'
"M-ma'am, even i-if it's fer medical p-purposes, that ain't h-how I was raised. I'm afraid you're just gonna have to leave that part of the test out."
And then I'll put my uniform back on. Quickly. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6 / Roll #2 8 = 8

DM 348044

>>348043
You storm out in full uniform, leaving the dumbfounded Steamship behind.
You have made a clean escape.

Sidus [Rogue] 348045

>>348042
"As I said, that won't happen."

Look at her.
What's up?

DM 348046

>>348045
"Why don't we play along for as long as he is useful?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348047

>>348044
I need a cold shower.
Closing the door behind me, I'll rejoin the others in the waiting room, since they're blocking the way and I can't exactly flee without raising suspicions.

Sidus [Rogue] 348048

>>348046
"Play along how?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348049

>>348047
I smile as I see him return
"Y-you're back!"

DM 348050

>>348048
"Let him think he is in charge? Play nice and ask for his notes?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348051

>>348049
I'll nod.
"Yep, told you it wouldn't take long."
I'll notice Vera and Leaf Blade.
"So what's up? Everyone suddenly need to use the clinic at the same time?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348053

>>348050
"And you think he'll just give them up like that?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348055

>>348051
"I j-just like to help out miss Slab in the clinic sometimes…"

DM 348056

>>348051
"Just following Vera around."
>>348053
"Maybe?"
"What are you two whispering about?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348057

>>348051
"Actually, we were looking for you. Sidus' got a new friend."

Sidus [Rogue] 348058

>>348056
"She just couldn't stop herself from telling me how great she thinks I am. Excuse her for that. She can't control it."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348059

>>348055
I'll nod.
"That's good, she might be able to teach you a few things about healing magic…"
>>348056
>>348057
"I take it Sidus's new friend is why Leaf Blade is with you?"

DM 348060

>>348058
"Heh. I know that feeling all too well.
You are forgiven.
So, still up for a little race?"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348061

>>348059
Nod.
"Balsawood. I told you about him."

Sidus [Rogue] 348062

>>348060
"Of course. A race starts with all participants on equal grounds though. A proper race."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348063

>>348059
I smile at him
"How was n-nurse Steamship?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348064

>>348061
I'll nod again.
"Well, we should probably go somewhere quieter to talk about that. Star, are you alright here, or do you want to come with us?"

DM 348065

>>348062
"Well I would not want to be unfair now would I.
So let us each name a challenge for the other.
You complete yours first, you can share my notes thus far.
I complete mine, and… you promise to not get all prissy when I ask miss Heart here out on Hearts and Hooves."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348066

>>348063
>>348064
"Oh yeah, this! What did happen? Did you have a cold?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348067

>>348063
I'll frown a little.
"She was… odd. Unsettling, even."
Shaking my head, I'll continue.
"But I think any further medical examinations I take should be going through somepony else."
>>348066
"It wasn't anything serious, just a little something that came up during my physical that they needed to test. The tests had come back, and they needed a little blood drawn for further testing. That's all."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348068

>>348067
Whristle cheerfully and just walk along.
"So, quieter place?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348069

>>348065
"Pfft, she'd say No to you anyway. Isn't that right?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348070

>>348068
"Back of the library's usually good, providing nopony is there."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348071

>>348067
"I-I told y-you!"

DM 348072

>>348069
Burning looks a little awkward and says nothing

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348073

>>348071
I'll smile a little.
"So you did. Guess that means you need to pull my reins a little more every so often, right?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348074

>>348073
I gulp and blush
"M-maybe…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348075

>>348070
Nod and lead the way.
>>348073
But stop for a moment and smile at this.

Sidus [Rogue] 348076

>>348072
I'm sure she's just shy.
No way she'd do that.
Turn back to him.
"What are your terms?"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348077

>>348074
I'll chuckle a little.
"Were you done helping nurse Slab, though, or should we meet back up later?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348078

>>348077
I shrug indifferently
"I-I'll go where you want me to…"

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348079

>>348078
I'll shake my head a bit.
"Well, I want you to go where you want to, and not bow to my wishes unless you want to. So, do you want to stay with nurse Slab, and maybe learn a few things, or come with me, Vera, and Leaf Blade?"

DM 348080

>>348076
He looks rather proud of himself
"Well m'boy, I'll go easy on you.
The Battlemaster carries around a sword. But that's not his real sword. His real sword is one he used in battle long ago.
He keeps that sword in a trunk, along with his old armor. This trunk is in his office.
Bring me the key to that trunk.

And what is my challenge?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348081

>>348079
"Uh… I-I'll stay here…"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348082

>>348081
"You sure Star?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348083

>>348082
I nod quietly

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348084

>>348081
I'll nod, and smile a little.
"Then I'll see you later, Star."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348085

>>348083
Nod.
"Will see you later then."
>>348084
Head off with him and Leaf Blade to the library.
"So, we saw Sidus and Balsa chat earlier, and they seemed to get along well."

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348086

>>348083
Once they are gone, I go and check up on this nurse Steamship

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348087

>>348085
I'll nod.
"So, I've not really head about this Balsawood character. If he's got the both of you worried about him, how bad of an influence on Sidus is he going to be?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348088

>>348080
"Steal both of my kamas without me noticing."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348089

>>348087
"Actually, we were hoping they could keep each other in check."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348090

>>348089
"Well, what's Balsawood like? Leaf Blade, I take it you knew him before Vera did."

DM 348091

>>348088
"Fair enough.
I'll be seeing you on hearts and hooves morning then."

Sidus [Rogue] 348092

>>348091
"So long!"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348093

DM 348094

>>348086
She is filling in a form by her table
"Yes?"

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348095

>>348094
"Uh… h-hi… I uh… help in out in the clinic…"

Sidus [Rogue] 348096

>>348092
Don't turn around of course.
I don't trust him.

DM 348097

>>348095
"Oh yeah, I heard. Welcome.
I'm a little busy right now, I need to get these samples documented and mailed."
>>348096
Burning steps up to your side
"…what do you think?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348098

>>348097
"That he's a fool! For one, he won't be able to do his challenge. For another, even if in some sort of off-chance he would win, which won't happen, you'll just say no anyway to him! But now, back to my room, quick!"

Papaver Field [Mage] 348099

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348100

>>348097
"Oh… uh… m-maybe I can help?"

DM 348101

>>348099
I'm tired as fuck
>>348090
"Stubborn but very capable. He sets a goal for himself, and stops at nothing to get to it. He feels he needs to one-up both himself and others to feel like he has accomplished something, and if his actions are not recognized, he grows bitter and angry."
>>348098
"…should I come?"

DM 348102

>>348100
"Not much to it, I just need to document the samples.
If you want to help, get some tubes with corks and empty these into them."
She points at the tray she has the test samples on.

Star Hopper [Cleric] 348103

>>348102
g2bed
"O-okay."
Get to work!

Papaver Field [Mage] 348104

>>348101
Then sleep.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348105

>>348101
"So basically an angrier Sidus? Great. And he's got no one to talk sense into him, does he?"

Sidus [Rogue] 348106

>>348101
"If you want to!"

Hurry though!

DM 348107

>>348105
"I was his last real friend, if you can call it that."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348108

>>348105
>>348107
"But now if the two of them focus on the rivalry between each other rather than getting in troubles, they could stay safe."

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348109

>>348107
I'll frown.
"So we've got a pony with something to prove, diving against anyone the Headmaster trusts enough to guard his collection, which might even be no pony, really, and all the traps between just to prove a point?"
I'll shake my head.
"I take it back, he's well beyond Sidus in pride."
>>348108
"Unless he provokes Sidus into going into the Collection first, and then following in after Sidus is caught or sets off a trap."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348110

>>348109
"Which would be perfect!"

DM 348111

>>348106
She does come along, disappearing somewhere along the way, and being in your bed by the time you get there.
"What took you?"
>>348108
"So long as that rivalry does not escalate to the point of getting someone in real trouble."
>>348109
"There are stories of what things guard the collection. I believe none of them."

Papaver Field [Mage] 348112

>>348111
"Wait, you never told me the stories!"

Sidus [Rogue] 348113

>>348111
I smirk at her.
"I just wanted to let you have the honors of seeing me enter."

Swap the real kamas with the fake ones on my weapon stand.

Jonagold [Male Earth Pony Knight] 348114

>>348111
"From what I've heard from the Headmaster himself, he only puts ponies he trusts to guard his collection. That could mean there's one or two, or none at all. It's probably trapped to the sky, though."


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