File: 1364671965173.png (241.79 KB, 474x452, Paladinquest.png, IO Google TinEye)
You have a Battlemaster to meet.
>>382801
"Feathercrest Morningsprite was not seen again at the gala.
Wonderbolt went home to sleep off the punch and the old drunkard Falconwreath stayed until dawn."
>>382795
>>382796
>>382803
"I've been asked to also hear out your feelings over the mission and give any counseling if you need some.
Not an easy thing, seeing two dead bodies in one night."
"Feathercrest Morningsprite was not seen again at the gala.
Wonderbolt went home to sleep off the punch and the old drunkard Falconwreath stayed until dawn."
>>382795
>>382796
>>382803
"I've been asked to also hear out your feelings over the mission and give any counseling if you need some.
Not an easy thing, seeing two dead bodies in one night."
>>383014
Id please, this is supposed to be a qt zealous horse, not an open minded donkey of mistery.
"So!"
Jump in the air sharply with a big smile.
"Free day! Let's do something! Run into Canterlot!
Take down evil! Sing poems!
Write poems! Anything!"
Let the squee flow through me!
>>383036
Ouch. No. Just no. Deflate terribly.
Speak in a whisper to Nock.
"Okay, maybe I should just go back to our room…"
Id please, this is supposed to be a qt zealous horse, not an open minded donkey of mistery.
"So!"
Jump in the air sharply with a big smile.
"Free day! Let's do something! Run into Canterlot!
Take down evil! Sing poems!
Write poems! Anything!"
Let the squee flow through me!
>>383036
Ouch. No. Just no. Deflate terribly.
Speak in a whisper to Nock.
"Okay, maybe I should just go back to our room…"
>>383259
"Even if it's to help Vera? When we first heard about the collection, it was because Vera had been having nightmares about some weird symbol. When she showed it to the headmaster, he got really curious, and then mentioned something about it in his collection. Of course, he immediately clammed up after that, but now Vera wants in so she can get answers. And I've managed to talk Leaf Blade into at least considering helping Balsawood, so that will make the job easier."
I'll huff.
"And before you ask, no I can't sneak, but I can at least get the master key from the custodian."
"Even if it's to help Vera? When we first heard about the collection, it was because Vera had been having nightmares about some weird symbol. When she showed it to the headmaster, he got really curious, and then mentioned something about it in his collection. Of course, he immediately clammed up after that, but now Vera wants in so she can get answers. And I've managed to talk Leaf Blade into at least considering helping Balsawood, so that will make the job easier."
I'll huff.
"And before you ask, no I can't sneak, but I can at least get the master key from the custodian."
>>383616
She hops onto the bed
"Really now~?"
>>383617
"One blade can stop another? One sword drawn can keep another in the sheath?
And, well, there will always be usurpers. Evildoers, heretics, cultists, the like. And among them will be ponies you can't just send paladins to bash down the doors of. Assassins are a more… subtle solution."
She hops onto the bed
"Really now~?"
>>383617
"One blade can stop another? One sword drawn can keep another in the sheath?
And, well, there will always be usurpers. Evildoers, heretics, cultists, the like. And among them will be ponies you can't just send paladins to bash down the doors of. Assassins are a more… subtle solution."
>>383675
"And that they are all taken from their families in the night, raised to believe in nothing but their duty.
And that they are all actually ghosts of ponies who were betrayed long ago
~oooOOoooOOoo~"
he makes spoooooky gestures
>>383676
Roll to not find yourself face first on the bed with her on top
'1d10'
Roll #1 4 = 4
"And that they are all taken from their families in the night, raised to believe in nothing but their duty.
And that they are all actually ghosts of ponies who were betrayed long ago
~oooOOoooOOoo~"
he makes spoooooky gestures
>>383676
Roll to not find yourself face first on the bed with her on top
'1d10'
Roll #1 4 = 4
>>393354
>>393355
>>393356
>>393357
Your studies continued as planned, further increasing your knowledge of theology, history, strategy, combat theory, magical theory and specialized combat tactics.
Life at the academy proceeded without major interruptions for the most part. Ultimately the play was a success even if it didn't break any notable ground or do anything that remarkable. It was a nifty break for everyone involved, but little more. Perhaps next year something new and exciting will emerge in it's place.
Each and every cadet honed their personal skills as well as their personal lives. Lime and Cherry kept their thing out of sight but not out of mind. Lime finished his work on a fantastic statue. Nock and Vera continued to work out their relation to one another and Nock began taking new interest in the Collection for her own reasons. Sidus increased his pace and did some additional exploration with the aid of Jon and his expanded access to the lower areas of the academy, discovering what is most likely an entrance into the Dungeons beyond the bestiary sewers.
Star and the others in the Night Classes continued their research of the stars, and a ritual they held showed strange signs warning of the coming times. Nobody was quite sure what to make of it.
At the end of year one, you all took your Paladin Oath, making each of you a full fledged paladin. Swearing to fight for the good of Equestria, to defend it's citizens, leaders and interests and to your greatest ability and to the end of your days.
By your sword and faith, by your heart and fury, you were anointed as the grand elite of this empire. Paladins.
Here you stand, ready for war.
-You have gained access to your Multiclass skill at MIN6
-You can now take classes for up to 2 points worth of Paladin Skills. Either 2 1 point skills, or 1 2 point skill.
-You now have unrestricted access to Lethal Weapon Storage, Advanced Combat Arts Study Material, Forge and Magic Training Range
-You have all gained Year 2 Uniforms
>>393355
>>393356
>>393357
Your studies continued as planned, further increasing your knowledge of theology, history, strategy, combat theory, magical theory and specialized combat tactics.
Life at the academy proceeded without major interruptions for the most part. Ultimately the play was a success even if it didn't break any notable ground or do anything that remarkable. It was a nifty break for everyone involved, but little more. Perhaps next year something new and exciting will emerge in it's place.
Each and every cadet honed their personal skills as well as their personal lives. Lime and Cherry kept their thing out of sight but not out of mind. Lime finished his work on a fantastic statue. Nock and Vera continued to work out their relation to one another and Nock began taking new interest in the Collection for her own reasons. Sidus increased his pace and did some additional exploration with the aid of Jon and his expanded access to the lower areas of the academy, discovering what is most likely an entrance into the Dungeons beyond the bestiary sewers.
Star and the others in the Night Classes continued their research of the stars, and a ritual they held showed strange signs warning of the coming times. Nobody was quite sure what to make of it.
At the end of year one, you all took your Paladin Oath, making each of you a full fledged paladin. Swearing to fight for the good of Equestria, to defend it's citizens, leaders and interests and to your greatest ability and to the end of your days.
By your sword and faith, by your heart and fury, you were anointed as the grand elite of this empire. Paladins.
Here you stand, ready for war.
-You have gained access to your Multiclass skill at MIN6
-You can now take classes for up to 2 points worth of Paladin Skills. Either 2 1 point skills, or 1 2 point skill.
-You now have unrestricted access to Lethal Weapon Storage, Advanced Combat Arts Study Material, Forge and Magic Training Range
-You have all gained Year 2 Uniforms
>>393394
>>393391
The statue is quite a sight to behold. Nearly life-size, with an immaculate attention to detail. Some features have even been enhanced a little for the sake of heroic portrayal, such as cutting down on the pudgy belly. Topping it all off is an intimidating pose, and remarkably well done weapons. Making a chain out of stone can't be easy.
>>393391
The statue is quite a sight to behold. Nearly life-size, with an immaculate attention to detail. Some features have even been enhanced a little for the sake of heroic portrayal, such as cutting down on the pudgy belly. Topping it all off is an intimidating pose, and remarkably well done weapons. Making a chain out of stone can't be easy.
>>393431
>>393432
I look at her as well.
"You are still pretty as ever… though I might have let you slack off with training slightly. How about this, every morning after I'm done with the forge, we go to the tracks and run together!"
Turn back to Lime for a second.
"How much time did it take to make this?"
>>393432
I look at her as well.
"You are still pretty as ever… though I might have let you slack off with training slightly. How about this, every morning after I'm done with the forge, we go to the tracks and run together!"
Turn back to Lime for a second.
"How much time did it take to make this?"
>>393435
"I admire your tenacity, but this was the only material I could get my hooves on. And at least it made sure the statue will last!"
>>393436
I chuckle.
"Of course not. If you will get your statue by my side, where you deserve it to be, I want your legs to be in the best possible shape. Even better than they look now."
"I admire your tenacity, but this was the only material I could get my hooves on. And at least it made sure the statue will last!"
>>393436
I chuckle.
"Of course not. If you will get your statue by my side, where you deserve it to be, I want your legs to be in the best possible shape. Even better than they look now."
>>393440
"That's what you're here for right?
What training did you sign up for anyway?"
>>393443
"Outing offers are given when they are needed, and they take those best suited from all who sign up. You are pardoned from classes for the time, and indeed time has been set aside for all Paladins to get training in the field during their second year."
"That's what you're here for right?
What training did you sign up for anyway?"
>>393443
"Outing offers are given when they are needed, and they take those best suited from all who sign up. You are pardoned from classes for the time, and indeed time has been set aside for all Paladins to get training in the field during their second year."
>>393628
Only on Outings. Inside the academy, lethal weapons must remain in storage unless otherwise agreed. Say for, lethal weapon sparring.
"Not today, no. It's a quiet day overall."
>>393633
"So, how does it feel to be a Paladin now?"
>>393631
>>393635
"…lets get you bandaged up."
Rolling for looks of end result
1 - super dorky
10 - mad cool
'1d10'
Roll #1 7 = 7
Only on Outings. Inside the academy, lethal weapons must remain in storage unless otherwise agreed. Say for, lethal weapon sparring.
"Not today, no. It's a quiet day overall."
>>393633
"So, how does it feel to be a Paladin now?"
>>393631
>>393635
"…lets get you bandaged up."
Rolling for looks of end result
1 - super dorky
10 - mad cool
'1d10'
Roll #1 7 = 7
>>409756
>>409757
>>409758
>>409763
>>409765
Looks like just about everyone from second year is here…
The Headmaster and Battlemaster take the stand
"Paladins. It has been a long and prosperous year for you. And you are well on your way to becoming that which many would call your best.
However, a few more tasks remain ahead for you.
For one to become a full Paladin, they need a code. A personal, unbreakable law they follow in and out of battle, a guideline to all their conduct.
But that code can only be born from one's own heart. And to see it, to feel it, that heart must first be allowed to open.
And for this purpose, the Trials of Mind, Body and Soul exist…"
>>409757
>>409758
>>409763
>>409765
Looks like just about everyone from second year is here…
The Headmaster and Battlemaster take the stand
"Paladins. It has been a long and prosperous year for you. And you are well on your way to becoming that which many would call your best.
However, a few more tasks remain ahead for you.
For one to become a full Paladin, they need a code. A personal, unbreakable law they follow in and out of battle, a guideline to all their conduct.
But that code can only be born from one's own heart. And to see it, to feel it, that heart must first be allowed to open.
And for this purpose, the Trials of Mind, Body and Soul exist…"
>>409770
>>409772
>>409773
>>409774
>>409775
"Each of you willing to become true Paladins will take these trials. Some will be taken alone, others in pairs, or groups.
It is acceptable to take them in any order, and lessons learned in past trials may prove useful in later ones."
He nods to the battlemaster, who continues
"The Trial of Mind will test your wits. Your ability read foes, understand situations, think on your hooves and above all, be sound of mind.
The Trial of Body will test your limits of strength and endurance. You will bleed, you will sweat, you will scream and swear and suffer. And trough all this, you will be hardened for the life you have chosen.
And the Trial of Soul will test your purity. Your will to do the right thing, to put aside vice and temptation, and to focus on that which is important. To see to it that when the time comes, you will not be found wanting.
And above all, these trials do not exist to prove you to us. They exist to prove you to yourself."
>>409772
>>409773
>>409774
>>409775
"Each of you willing to become true Paladins will take these trials. Some will be taken alone, others in pairs, or groups.
It is acceptable to take them in any order, and lessons learned in past trials may prove useful in later ones."
He nods to the battlemaster, who continues
"The Trial of Mind will test your wits. Your ability read foes, understand situations, think on your hooves and above all, be sound of mind.
The Trial of Body will test your limits of strength and endurance. You will bleed, you will sweat, you will scream and swear and suffer. And trough all this, you will be hardened for the life you have chosen.
And the Trial of Soul will test your purity. Your will to do the right thing, to put aside vice and temptation, and to focus on that which is important. To see to it that when the time comes, you will not be found wanting.
And above all, these trials do not exist to prove you to us. They exist to prove you to yourself."
>>409819
>>409820
>>409821
>>409822
Vera is such a separatist.
"Good.
Now, there is a small written exam for you all to take. Fill it out, return it to me, and go get ready The trials begin tomorrow morning. Don't worry about reporting in. It will be taken care of."
[Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME:
WEAPON PREFERENCE:
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/N
DEITY:
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL:
-MENTAL:
-SPIRITUAL:
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR):
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:
Return when completed]
>>409820
>>409821
>>409822
Vera is such a separatist.
"Good.
Now, there is a small written exam for you all to take. Fill it out, return it to me, and go get ready The trials begin tomorrow morning. Don't worry about reporting in. It will be taken care of."
[Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME:
WEAPON PREFERENCE:
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/N
DEITY:
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL:
-MENTAL:
-SPIRITUAL:
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR):
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:
Return when completed]
>>409825
NAME: Sidus the Great
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Any and all
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: -
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 5
-SPIRITUAL: 5
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Burning Heart, Year 2
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: Be the greatest that I can to fight injustice and protect those who are not as great as I am
NAME: Sidus the Great
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Any and all
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: -
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 5
-SPIRITUAL: 5
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Burning Heart, Year 2
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: Be the greatest that I can to fight injustice and protect those who are not as great as I am
>>409825
NAME: Lime Rock
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace
MAGICAL TRAINING: Yes
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 4
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Cherry Merry~
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect our Equestrian ideals, culture and citizens as well serving our princesses.
NAME: Lime Rock
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace
MAGICAL TRAINING: Yes
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 4
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Cherry Merry~
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect our Equestrian ideals, culture and citizens as well serving our princesses.
>>409825
Sigh and take the paper.
"Written…"
Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME: Papaver Field
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Greatsword
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/N
DEITY: The Sisters
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 2
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Nock daughter of Spell Seeker, Second Year.
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To fight with all my might in protection of the Sisters and the peace of ponykind, bringing forth the Harmony under Their name.
And in combat, find eternal glory.
Sigh and take the paper.
"Written…"
Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME: Papaver Field
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Greatsword
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/
DEITY: The Sisters
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 2
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Nock daughter of Spell Seeker, Second Year.
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To fight with all my might in protection of the Sisters and the peace of ponykind, bringing forth the Harmony under Their name.
And in combat, find eternal glory.
>>409825
NAME: Cherry Merry
WEAPON PREFERENCE: 2-Handed Warhammer
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 2
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Friend: Lime Rock
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:
To protect the innocent, fight honorably and serve the Princesses of Equestria.
NAME: Cherry Merry
WEAPON PREFERENCE: 2-Handed Warhammer
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 2
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Friend: Lime Rock
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:
To protect the innocent, fight honorably and serve the Princesses of Equestria.
>>409825
>NAME: Star Hopper
>WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace and shield
>MAGICAL TRAINING Y
>DEITY: Luna
>EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
>-PHYSICAL: 3
>-MENTAL: 2
>-SPIRITUAL: 3
>NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Jonagold Apple
>ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect, aid and heal the innocent and to defend our faith against any who want to defile it.
>NAME: Star Hopper
>WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace and shield
>MAGICAL TRAINING Y
>DEITY: Luna
>EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
>-PHYSICAL: 3
>-MENTAL: 2
>-SPIRITUAL: 3
>NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Jonagold Apple
>ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect, aid and heal the innocent and to defend our faith against any who want to defile it.
>>409918
"I. do. not. know.
Maybe they didn't. Maybe they guessed.
…maybe it was all in my head all along…
But… I had to walk past it. Leave it there. Not touch it. Just… move on. Keep going…"
>>409914
>>409909
ARE YOU TWO UP TO SOMETHING NAUGHTY?
Welcome to the special secret room~
>>409920
"It's…
…personal."
>>409919
"Wouldn't know. Probably some kind of obstacle course. Maybe mock combat?"
"I. do. not. know.
Maybe they didn't. Maybe they guessed.
…maybe it was all in my head all along…
But… I had to walk past it. Leave it there. Not touch it. Just… move on. Keep going…"
>>409914
>>409909
ARE YOU TWO UP TO SOMETHING NAUGHTY?
Welcome to the special secret room~
>>409920
"It's…
…personal."
>>409919
"Wouldn't know. Probably some kind of obstacle course. Maybe mock combat?"
>>409971
"You sound patronizing…"
>>409973
"To see the needs of the night fulfilled
To spread word of her glory and beauty
I will stand and I will fight
And if need be I will give my life
For the night is a blessed thing
For which I'd gladly sacrifice all."
>>409974
"No.
Failure means you will need to see that those areas where you are too weak are strengthened before you try again."
"You sound patronizing…"
>>409973
"To see the needs of the night fulfilled
To spread word of her glory and beauty
I will stand and I will fight
And if need be I will give my life
For the night is a blessed thing
For which I'd gladly sacrifice all."
>>409974
"No.
Failure means you will need to see that those areas where you are too weak are strengthened before you try again."
>>409825
NAME: Jonagold Apple
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Sword and shield
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 3
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Star Hopper
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To defend those who cannot defend themselves, uphold the virtues of a paladin's conduct, and above all else bring good into the world.
Preferred trial order: Mind - body - soul.
And now I'm here.
NAME: Jonagold Apple
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Sword and shield
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 3
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Star Hopper
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To defend those who cannot defend themselves, uphold the virtues of a paladin's conduct, and above all else bring good into the world.
Preferred trial order: Mind - body - soul.
And now I'm here.
>>416273
Paladin Sidus.
Of strong body and sound will. Or so you think.
Soon we will see just what you can endure and overcome.
Your first challenge lies beyond that wall in front of you.
Good luck.
>>416274
It's all normal gear.
The room seems blank, save for two doors and the table.
>>416275
Paladin Star Hopper.
Known for her endurance and tolerance to pain. Not so much for her stamina and agility.
Your body will be tested, to prove how far it has come. Walk into the corridor before you. Just reach the end.
>>416277
Paladin Lime Rock.
You think yourself to be well on your way. Let us see if that assumption is true.
You will need a key to get out of here. Go get it.
Paladin Sidus.
Of strong body and sound will. Or so you think.
Soon we will see just what you can endure and overcome.
Your first challenge lies beyond that wall in front of you.
Good luck.
>>416274
It's all normal gear.
The room seems blank, save for two doors and the table.
>>416275
Paladin Star Hopper.
Known for her endurance and tolerance to pain. Not so much for her stamina and agility.
Your body will be tested, to prove how far it has come. Walk into the corridor before you. Just reach the end.
>>416277
Paladin Lime Rock.
You think yourself to be well on your way. Let us see if that assumption is true.
You will need a key to get out of here. Go get it.
>>416284
Paladin Papaver Field
You feel your soul is weak.
Simply take the blue door, and you will be done here. However, we will fail someone else in your place. But behind the red door lies much evil that awaits you. So why put yourself through all the trouble?
>>416285
It is a solid stone wall that goes from the floor to the ceiling.
Just like the three other walls.
>>416287
The room is blank. There is just a locked door at the back, and an unlocked door on another wall.
>>416288
There is a deep pit before you, and a rope hanging in from the ceiling over the center of it.
Paladin Papaver Field
You feel your soul is weak.
Simply take the blue door, and you will be done here. However, we will fail someone else in your place. But behind the red door lies much evil that awaits you. So why put yourself through all the trouble?
>>416285
It is a solid stone wall that goes from the floor to the ceiling.
Just like the three other walls.
>>416287
The room is blank. There is just a locked door at the back, and an unlocked door on another wall.
>>416288
There is a deep pit before you, and a rope hanging in from the ceiling over the center of it.
>>416292
It's too deep and dark to see the bottom, but the rope is in your reach now.
>>416293
A sword accompanies you as you enter the Red Door.
Inside you find two levers, and a note hanging from them.
>>416294
It seems to be a series of poles jutting out of a deep pit. You can probably jump from one to the next if you try.
>>416295
You chip the wall and bruise your hoof.
Remember your lessons. Remember what you know.
It's too deep and dark to see the bottom, but the rope is in your reach now.
>>416293
A sword accompanies you as you enter the Red Door.
Inside you find two levers, and a note hanging from them.
>>416294
It seems to be a series of poles jutting out of a deep pit. You can probably jump from one to the next if you try.
>>416295
You chip the wall and bruise your hoof.
Remember your lessons. Remember what you know.
>>416298
[Both of these levers open the door that lets you move on.
The left one also makes the floor dangerous for you.
The right one simply makes something else happen to someone else]
>>416299
With a great crack, the wall splits.
One more should do it.
>>416300
You could always jump in and see where it leads.
>>416301
Easy. This is just like a little training course.
Soon you reach the other side, and another room. This one has a checkered pattern on the floor and ceiling.
[Both of these levers open the door that lets you move on.
The left one also makes the floor dangerous for you.
The right one simply makes something else happen to someone else]
>>416299
With a great crack, the wall splits.
One more should do it.
>>416300
You could always jump in and see where it leads.
>>416301
Easy. This is just like a little training course.
Soon you reach the other side, and another room. This one has a checkered pattern on the floor and ceiling.
>>416306
Nothing seems to really happen.
Except a door opens up nearby.
>>416307
You slip and fall, plummeting into darkness.
When you reach the bottom, you find that the floor was cushioned.
You can see a large boulder in the room, and a doorway.
>>416308
The wall gives in and crumbles, revealing a way forward.
>>416310
Just a long, fairly narrow corridor. The pattern follows all the way through, and each colour square seems to be an individual floor tile. They look somewhat loose.
Nothing seems to really happen.
Except a door opens up nearby.
>>416307
You slip and fall, plummeting into darkness.
When you reach the bottom, you find that the floor was cushioned.
You can see a large boulder in the room, and a doorway.
>>416308
The wall gives in and crumbles, revealing a way forward.
>>416310
Just a long, fairly narrow corridor. The pattern follows all the way through, and each colour square seems to be an individual floor tile. They look somewhat loose.
>>416312
It leads to a corridor.
There is no visible floor. Just various ponies tied down. They look scared.
>>416315
It leads to a rather long hallway, that has a ladder at the end.
The ladder is too high to reach from the floor.
>>416316
An armoured pony stands before you, blocking a narrow bridge.
>>416317
You step on a black tile, and a white tile shoots down from the ceiling, slashing you on the head.
You yelp and leap forward, landing on a white tile, making a black one on the floor shoot up and hit you in the gut.
Stumbling to the side, you trigger another black tile, and this time the ceiling tile slams across your back, making you sit down, shooting up a tile right under you, which flips you over in a most painful way.
As you land on your back, another tile shoots down from the ceiling, but lands short since you are laying down flat.
It leads to a corridor.
There is no visible floor. Just various ponies tied down. They look scared.
>>416315
It leads to a rather long hallway, that has a ladder at the end.
The ladder is too high to reach from the floor.
>>416316
An armoured pony stands before you, blocking a narrow bridge.
>>416317
You step on a black tile, and a white tile shoots down from the ceiling, slashing you on the head.
You yelp and leap forward, landing on a white tile, making a black one on the floor shoot up and hit you in the gut.
Stumbling to the side, you trigger another black tile, and this time the ceiling tile slams across your back, making you sit down, shooting up a tile right under you, which flips you over in a most painful way.
As you land on your back, another tile shoots down from the ceiling, but lands short since you are laying down flat.
>>416330
The wooshes of the white tiles trying to strike you echo in your ears, but you make it through safely.
After one more door, you find the key. It dangles from a rope above the floor of this next room. There is a ladder near the wall.
>>416332
"There is no time!"
"Just go! Run over us!"
"You won't make it like this!"
"Just leave us!"
>>416333
With great effort that strains you to your limits, you eventually get the boulder up to the ladder. Now you just need to climb it and get to the ladder before it rolls away from under you.
>>416334
"Only a fool would trust their life to a weapon.
Face me hoof to hoof, if you dare."
The wooshes of the white tiles trying to strike you echo in your ears, but you make it through safely.
After one more door, you find the key. It dangles from a rope above the floor of this next room. There is a ladder near the wall.
>>416332
"There is no time!"
"Just go! Run over us!"
"You won't make it like this!"
"Just leave us!"
>>416333
With great effort that strains you to your limits, you eventually get the boulder up to the ladder. Now you just need to climb it and get to the ladder before it rolls away from under you.
>>416334
"Only a fool would trust their life to a weapon.
Face me hoof to hoof, if you dare."
>>416343
"THE DOOR IS CLOSING YOU FOOL!"
Getting them all will take at least fifteen minutes at this pace.
>>416345
You didn't even know it was possible to wall jump. But you did. With a back flip. Grabbing the ladder well in time.
>>416348
The key is hoisted higher and the door closes.
You realize the ladder was just leaning on the wall, not connected to or leading anywhere.
>>416347
The armour opens up, and a pony clad in tight cloth and a mask steps out, leaving the armour to block the half way point of the bridge
"Come then."
"THE DOOR IS CLOSING YOU FOOL!"
Getting them all will take at least fifteen minutes at this pace.
>>416345
You didn't even know it was possible to wall jump. But you did. With a back flip. Grabbing the ladder well in time.
>>416348
The key is hoisted higher and the door closes.
You realize the ladder was just leaning on the wall, not connected to or leading anywhere.
>>416347
The armour opens up, and a pony clad in tight cloth and a mask steps out, leaving the armour to block the half way point of the bridge
"Come then."
>>416353
You can't quite manage anything sturdy enough?
Rush the door?
Keep untying?
>>416355
You leap out and nab the key before it is pulled up.
The door clicks open.
Behind you, in the darkness of the room, something growls.
>>416356
After a long climb, you reach the other side of the pit you fell into earlier. There is a door here.
>>416357
He tries to block, but your hit lands home.
"Good. Again!"
You can't quite manage anything sturdy enough?
Rush the door?
Keep untying?
>>416355
You leap out and nab the key before it is pulled up.
The door clicks open.
Behind you, in the darkness of the room, something growls.
>>416356
After a long climb, you reach the other side of the pit you fell into earlier. There is a door here.
>>416357
He tries to block, but your hit lands home.
"Good. Again!"
>>416365
You see a locked door, and a key dangling from a chain on your left, in a tight curving corridor.
>>416367
A beast unlike anything you've ever seen stumbles out of the darkness. Like a great dog grasping a large hammer.
"With pleasure, meat."
>>416368
Your toss lands short of the target.
Last chance.
Run or save the rest.
You see a locked door, and a key dangling from a chain on your left, in a tight curving corridor.
>>416367
A beast unlike anything you've ever seen stumbles out of the darkness. Like a great dog grasping a large hammer.
"With pleasure, meat."
>>416368
Your toss lands short of the target.
Last chance.
Run or save the rest.
>>416374
Your sword lands under the door, which then crushes it to shrapnel as it slams down.
You may now untie the rest of the ponies at your own pace. Not like you have anywhere to go.
>>416377
The key suddenly zooms off into the corridor!
>>416378
His balance shakes a bit
"AGAIN!"
>>416379
He slashes you across the jaw with his hammer
"I'd rather not, thank you."
Your sword lands under the door, which then crushes it to shrapnel as it slams down.
You may now untie the rest of the ponies at your own pace. Not like you have anywhere to go.
>>416377
The key suddenly zooms off into the corridor!
>>416378
His balance shakes a bit
"AGAIN!"
>>416379
He slashes you across the jaw with his hammer
"I'd rather not, thank you."
>>416389
You run after it for a good while, and after a few rounds around the track you catch up and nab it.
Hey, who knew. You run pretty well these days.
>>416390
Your strike sends him tumbling into the back of the room
"Ow."
>>416391
You hear an audible crack from his jaw.
"Alright. You've proven yourself."
>>416393
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
You run after it for a good while, and after a few rounds around the track you catch up and nab it.
Hey, who knew. You run pretty well these days.
>>416390
Your strike sends him tumbling into the back of the room
"Ow."
>>416391
You hear an audible crack from his jaw.
"Alright. You've proven yourself."
>>416393
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
>>416398
There is another blank room here, and another crystal ball.
>>416399
Nope.
Nopony.
>>416400
"That's not what I'm here for."
He gets up and hefts his hammer again
>>416401
"No.
Not until you win.
ON GUARD!"
This time he actually attacks too.
'1d10'
>>416402
You get a conjured spoon.
"Who we are is not something you need to know"
"Why did you not go for the door?"
Roll #1 3 = 3
There is another blank room here, and another crystal ball.
>>416399
Nope.
Nopony.
>>416400
"That's not what I'm here for."
He gets up and hefts his hammer again
>>416401
"No.
Not until you win.
ON GUARD!"
This time he actually attacks too.
'1d10'
>>416402
You get a conjured spoon.
"Who we are is not something you need to know"
"Why did you not go for the door?"
Roll #1 3 = 3
>>416408
Paladin Cherry Merry.
You use your body for many things.
Now we see if it is capable in combat as well as other things.
All you need to do is get past a few doors. The first one is right there before you.
>>416412
You smash him over the head, and he falls over, helpless to fight back any more.
>>416409
Well done, Paladin Star Hopper.
Your body has grown, but has your mind?
We shall let the next guardian be the judge of that.
Amuse him for a while, and he will let you pass.
>>416410
You manage to land a blow
"One for you"
'1d10'
>>416414
"You pass."
The door opens up again as two swords appear
"Go forth, Paladin."
Roll #1 9 = 9
Paladin Cherry Merry.
You use your body for many things.
Now we see if it is capable in combat as well as other things.
All you need to do is get past a few doors. The first one is right there before you.
>>416412
You smash him over the head, and he falls over, helpless to fight back any more.
>>416409
Well done, Paladin Star Hopper.
Your body has grown, but has your mind?
We shall let the next guardian be the judge of that.
Amuse him for a while, and he will let you pass.
>>416410
You manage to land a blow
"One for you"
'1d10'
>>416414
"You pass."
The door opens up again as two swords appear
"Go forth, Paladin."
Roll #1 9 = 9
>>416424
There is a pony sitting next to a door
>>416425
He's out cold.
>>416426
There is a pit here, with a glass bridge leading over it
"Vera? Vera! Down here!"
…that sounds like… Leaf?
>>416430
Behind the door is another door.
This one has a little slot near the top.
It slides open, and someone peeks out
"Huh? What do you want?"
>>416431
Hit hoof nearly knocks your teeth in
"One each."
'1d10'
Roll #1 1 = 1
There is a pony sitting next to a door
>>416425
He's out cold.
>>416426
There is a pit here, with a glass bridge leading over it
"Vera? Vera! Down here!"
…that sounds like… Leaf?
>>416430
Behind the door is another door.
This one has a little slot near the top.
It slides open, and someone peeks out
"Huh? What do you want?"
>>416431
Hit hoof nearly knocks your teeth in
"One each."
'1d10'
Roll #1 1 = 1
>>416438
You can see some blood drip down behind his mask
"Two one."
'1d10'
>>416439
"Hello hello my dear fellow.
I bet you like blue much more than yellow.
How is your mood? Excited or…?"
>>416440
You do eventually make it back past all the crap and open the door.
Here is… another blank room with a crystal ball.
>>416441
You can see him. He is a little way down.
"Vera! I found it! I think.
Hop down, I'll catch you! If I'm right about this we can get to the collection!"
>>416446
"Eh? What did you say? Speak up!"
Roll #1 3 = 3
You can see some blood drip down behind his mask
"Two one."
'1d10'
>>416439
"Hello hello my dear fellow.
I bet you like blue much more than yellow.
How is your mood? Excited or…?"
>>416440
You do eventually make it back past all the crap and open the door.
Here is… another blank room with a crystal ball.
>>416441
You can see him. He is a little way down.
"Vera! I found it! I think.
Hop down, I'll catch you! If I'm right about this we can get to the collection!"
>>416446
"Eh? What did you say? Speak up!"
Roll #1 3 = 3
>>416451
"Oh ok."
He opens the door
>>416454
"We're in the Proving Halls. I found a way to get inside the walls here, and I'm pretty sure I found a way to get from here to the collection!
And if you're not coming then I'm going alone."
>>416453
He shakes his head sadly
"Not to be rude, but I care not for your mood
Be it bad or good you may as well talk of identifying wood
But do tell, would I look good in a cowl or…?"
>>416455
Paladin Lime Rock
You have overcome much, but much more remains ahead. How is you brain doing? Still hurting?
Well, you get to rub it now.
Beyond that door lies your next task.
>>416457
Your kick cracks the mask.
"Three one.
A good win, Paladin Sidus."
He grabs the armour and dives off the bridge with it.
"Oh ok."
He opens the door
>>416454
"We're in the Proving Halls. I found a way to get inside the walls here, and I'm pretty sure I found a way to get from here to the collection!
And if you're not coming then I'm going alone."
>>416453
He shakes his head sadly
"Not to be rude, but I care not for your mood
Be it bad or good you may as well talk of identifying wood
But do tell, would I look good in a cowl or…?"
>>416455
Paladin Lime Rock
You have overcome much, but much more remains ahead. How is you brain doing? Still hurting?
Well, you get to rub it now.
Beyond that door lies your next task.
>>416457
Your kick cracks the mask.
"Three one.
A good win, Paladin Sidus."
He grabs the armour and dives off the bridge with it.
>>416471
The room has some pillars made up of stacks of smaller disks. Each pillar having five.
The pony has no ears. No wonder he is hard of hearing.
>>416472
"That isn't your call to make, Vera.
I'm ending this wild goose chase."
He slips back into the hole he was looking out of
>>416474
She smiles and nods
"I would, I would! A hood indeed.
That is a thing I certainly need.
But I should not hold you, for the key is speed
So go ahead, and do your…"
>>416475
You come to another blank room with a crystal ball
>>416477
There is a mirror here in the middle, and a few corridors leading off into three directions.
The room has some pillars made up of stacks of smaller disks. Each pillar having five.
The pony has no ears. No wonder he is hard of hearing.
>>416472
"That isn't your call to make, Vera.
I'm ending this wild goose chase."
He slips back into the hole he was looking out of
>>416474
She smiles and nods
"I would, I would! A hood indeed.
That is a thing I certainly need.
But I should not hold you, for the key is speed
So go ahead, and do your…"
>>416475
You come to another blank room with a crystal ball
>>416477
There is a mirror here in the middle, and a few corridors leading off into three directions.
>>416483
Good job, Paladin Sidus.
You never were in doubt, were you?
This next one will be even easier. All you have to do is think.
>>416484
He smiles and nods
"What a fun game this was. If bit of a word porridge. Go on ahead open that next door hinge.
Just remember, never to binge. Even on a delicious fruit, called an…"
>>416485
It has wheels so it can be moved around. Looking into it, there is no reflection for the door you came in through.
>>416486
"I've worked for years to get here Vera! I wanted to share this with you! You are not stopping me!
If you're not coming, go finish your damn trials."
>>416487
There seems to be an upper platform, about at the height of a full pillar.
Good job, Paladin Sidus.
You never were in doubt, were you?
This next one will be even easier. All you have to do is think.
>>416484
He smiles and nods
"What a fun game this was. If bit of a word porridge. Go on ahead open that next door hinge.
Just remember, never to binge. Even on a delicious fruit, called an…"
>>416485
It has wheels so it can be moved around. Looking into it, there is no reflection for the door you came in through.
>>416486
"I've worked for years to get here Vera! I wanted to share this with you! You are not stopping me!
If you're not coming, go finish your damn trials."
>>416487
There seems to be an upper platform, about at the height of a full pillar.
>>416495
No, but you can probably knock some off the pillars to lower them.
>>416497
There is a door on the far side.
On it, is a label.
[Push]
>>416498
"Can't let you ruin my dream Vera.
Not even you. As much as I do love you.
Please just go. Don't make me stop you."
>>416499
He shrugs and opens the door
"Close enough."
>>416502
It reflects two of them. The third comes up as a blank wall.
No, but you can probably knock some off the pillars to lower them.
>>416497
There is a door on the far side.
On it, is a label.
[Push]
>>416498
"Can't let you ruin my dream Vera.
Not even you. As much as I do love you.
Please just go. Don't make me stop you."
>>416499
He shrugs and opens the door
"Close enough."
>>416502
It reflects two of them. The third comes up as a blank wall.
>>416528
Yep. That did it.
Beyond the door is what looks like a maze, with corridors leading left, right and front.
>>416529
"You're not the boss of me."
>>416530
Almost there, Paladin.
All that remains is a few trials.
Please enjoy the snack. You must be hungry.
There is a table set on the side with cakes, pancakes, pies and a few other goodies.
On the other wall is a doorway.
>>416531
"You're not asking for a fight, you're asking me to let my dearest dream die!
I've accepted I can't have you! This is all I have left!"
He loosens his necktie and throws it down
>>416533
That's a real hole.
But it ends at a blank wall.
Yep. That did it.
Beyond the door is what looks like a maze, with corridors leading left, right and front.
>>416529
"You're not the boss of me."
>>416530
Almost there, Paladin.
All that remains is a few trials.
Please enjoy the snack. You must be hungry.
There is a table set on the side with cakes, pancakes, pies and a few other goodies.
On the other wall is a doorway.
>>416531
"You're not asking for a fight, you're asking me to let my dearest dream die!
I've accepted I can't have you! This is all I have left!"
He loosens his necktie and throws it down
>>416533
That's a real hole.
But it ends at a blank wall.
>>416543
"Maybe to you! But then, it was never even a dream for you! Just some goal you gave up on the second you found out you could survive without it!
What do you know of hopes and dreams! Of success and pride!"
>>416546
You come to some writing on the wall [Turn back]
>>416548
The doorway leads to a corridor.
as you go along it, it gets tighter and tighter, until you can barely squeeze through the other end.
You end up in a room with a doorway, and a large crack on the opposite wall. You can gear fighting on the other side.
>>416553
"Yes ma'am."
He helps you knock the pillars into a staircase, and salutes.
"Maybe to you! But then, it was never even a dream for you! Just some goal you gave up on the second you found out you could survive without it!
What do you know of hopes and dreams! Of success and pride!"
>>416546
You come to some writing on the wall [Turn back]
>>416548
The doorway leads to a corridor.
as you go along it, it gets tighter and tighter, until you can barely squeeze through the other end.
You end up in a room with a doorway, and a large crack on the opposite wall. You can gear fighting on the other side.
>>416553
"Yes ma'am."
He helps you knock the pillars into a staircase, and salutes.
>>416556
"What do I know of pride?"
Look at him with anger, but then, smile.
"You are right.
What do I know of pride, a nopony sent away from home. I bet my parents knew about it. About this curse. That's why they did it.
And now you guys are the only thing I've left, damnit!
I won't see you go down in flames!"
"What do I know of pride?"
Look at him with anger, but then, smile.
"You are right.
What do I know of pride, a nopony sent away from home. I bet my parents knew about it. About this curse. That's why they did it.
And now you guys are the only thing I've left, damnit!
I won't see you go down in flames!"
>>416559
It appears to be a dead end.
>>416560
"This is your trial, not mine.
Go well."
On the upper platform is another door
>>416561
Through the crack, you see what looks like Jon fighting some big monster
>>416562
His muscles loosen up and he walks over, calmly touching your cheek
"I hoped I could have found a new dream in you…"
It appears to be a dead end.
>>416560
"This is your trial, not mine.
Go well."
On the upper platform is another door
>>416561
Through the crack, you see what looks like Jon fighting some big monster
>>416562
His muscles loosen up and he walks over, calmly touching your cheek
"I hoped I could have found a new dream in you…"
>>416576
On the other side are corridors leading left and right.
An arrow on the floor points right.
>>416578
No.
Just a fat paladin staring back at you with her ugly face.
>>416579
He hugs you back
"…what about your trial?"
>>416580
Good enough, if a little brutal.
Behind the door is another blank room with a crystal ball.
On the other side are corridors leading left and right.
An arrow on the floor points right.
>>416578
No.
Just a fat paladin staring back at you with her ugly face.
>>416579
He hugs you back
"…what about your trial?"
>>416580
Good enough, if a little brutal.
Behind the door is another blank room with a crystal ball.
>>416587
Just look at her. She barely fits the big uniform. It doesn't even sit right because it as meant for tall strong ponies not fatty fatty muffin top over there.
She probably won't even stand up to her problems and just hides away from them and eats to drown the sadness.
Pathetic.
>>416588
There is a right turn ahead, and a corridor straight on.
>>416589
"Vera I…"
>>416588
Well done, Paladin Cherry Merry.
It's time for you to see if your wits match your brawn. Just go through the checkpoint. Should be easy, right?
Just look at her. She barely fits the big uniform. It doesn't even sit right because it as meant for tall strong ponies not fatty fatty muffin top over there.
She probably won't even stand up to her problems and just hides away from them and eats to drown the sadness.
Pathetic.
>>416588
There is a right turn ahead, and a corridor straight on.
>>416589
"Vera I…"
>>416588
Well done, Paladin Cherry Merry.
It's time for you to see if your wits match your brawn. Just go through the checkpoint. Should be easy, right?
>>416607
"…I guess that's all the proof I needed then."
Once you're up he kicks the ladder away and slinks back inside his hole in the wall.
>>416608
What back?
Don't you remember being told to go back?
There's a solid wall behind you.
>>416611
You can't even look a mirror in the eyes. What hope do you have?
"…I guess that's all the proof I needed then."
Once you're up he kicks the ladder away and slinks back inside his hole in the wall.
>>416608
What back?
Don't you remember being told to go back?
There's a solid wall behind you.
>>416611
You can't even look a mirror in the eyes. What hope do you have?
>>416618
"Ah. Good. Only nobles are allowed past the checkpoint. Carry on."
>>416619
>>416620
>>416621
You collapse the hole. There is no way to get to him now.
The glass bridge is unharmed.
>>416617
The mirror image looks at you, and slowly turns into a prettier, more fit and more confident mare.
The mirror then breaks, revealing a door.
>>416622
A way is revealed.
There is a long ladder here, leading both up and down. The steps above you are painted white, the rest is blank wood.
"Ah. Good. Only nobles are allowed past the checkpoint. Carry on."
>>416619
>>416620
>>416621
You collapse the hole. There is no way to get to him now.
The glass bridge is unharmed.
>>416617
The mirror image looks at you, and slowly turns into a prettier, more fit and more confident mare.
The mirror then breaks, revealing a door.
>>416622
A way is revealed.
There is a long ladder here, leading both up and down. The steps above you are painted white, the rest is blank wood.
>>416624
There is.
And an old pony sitting near it.
>>416625
After you climb a while, the ladder breaks.
As you fall, you see writing on the wall
[Up is the only answer]
>>416626
>Jump down
It's a pit. You collapsed the only real exit there was.
Are you sure you want to jump into a pit?
>>416627
Beyond the door is just a small room, and one pony standing between you and the exit.
"Stop."
There is.
And an old pony sitting near it.
>>416625
After you climb a while, the ladder breaks.
As you fall, you see writing on the wall
[Up is the only answer]
>>416626
>Jump down
It's a pit. You collapsed the only real exit there was.
Are you sure you want to jump into a pit?
>>416627
Beyond the door is just a small room, and one pony standing between you and the exit.
"Stop."
>>416646
It looks like there is a table and a crystal ball down there.
>>416647
"Go back to your studies and try again next year."
>>416648
At least she's solid.
"Magic got your tongue as well as your soul?"
"This is just sad, Vera. And what is this we hear about you being some sexual deviant too?"
>>416650
"Then answer me honestly."
It looks like there is a table and a crystal ball down there.
>>416647
"Go back to your studies and try again next year."
>>416648
At least she's solid.
"Magic got your tongue as well as your soul?"
"This is just sad, Vera. And what is this we hear about you being some sexual deviant too?"
>>416650
"Then answer me honestly."
>>416660
"Make me."
>>416661
You see a door on the wall, and a large crack on another wall. The place must be getting old.
>>416662
"Well at least we only raised a homosexual heretic, rather than a stupid homosexual heretic."
"Why couldn't you just settle down with some nice stallion and become a flower merchant or something?"
>>416663
"In your mind or in your heart?"
"Make me."
>>416661
You see a door on the wall, and a large crack on another wall. The place must be getting old.
>>416662
"Well at least we only raised a homosexual heretic, rather than a stupid homosexual heretic."
"Why couldn't you just settle down with some nice stallion and become a flower merchant or something?"
>>416663
"In your mind or in your heart?"
>>416676
They are really trying to hit hard on me, uh?
"You said it. When you didn't answer my letters, when you didn't tell me what the world was like out of the walls of our home!
I have another life now! One without you, one where I have a purpouse and my magic is not a curse I have to bear alone!"
They are really trying to hit hard on me, uh?
"You said it. When you didn't answer my letters, when you didn't tell me what the world was like out of the walls of our home!
I have another life now! One without you, one where I have a purpouse and my magic is not a curse I have to bear alone!"
>>416677
You must be so deep down they barely maintain these areas. Hasty plaster has been applied over large holes on the walls of this corridor, and it's easy to see that there are other rooms and corridors on the other side.
…indeed most of those look nothing like the other rooms you've been to.
>>416679
"This is your final, and most important trial. Are you ready?"
>>416683
"Go on then, Paladin."
"Go and live your own life."
They vanish.
You are alone.
There is only the door you came from
And the door forward
You must be so deep down they barely maintain these areas. Hasty plaster has been applied over large holes on the walls of this corridor, and it's easy to see that there are other rooms and corridors on the other side.
…indeed most of those look nothing like the other rooms you've been to.
>>416679
"This is your final, and most important trial. Are you ready?"
>>416683
"Go on then, Paladin."
"Go and live your own life."
They vanish.
You are alone.
There is only the door you came from
And the door forward
>>416695
[This heretic was caught trying to sneak into places he does not belong in.
Punish him.]
>>416697
"So you lie for gain, or for fun?"
>>416693
You come to another door, and enter one more winding corridor, leading up.
From a crack in a wall, you catch a glimpse of a great vault.
>>416694
Depends. Do you want the full trials?
[This heretic was caught trying to sneak into places he does not belong in.
Punish him.]
>>416697
"So you lie for gain, or for fun?"
>>416693
You come to another door, and enter one more winding corridor, leading up.
From a crack in a wall, you catch a glimpse of a great vault.
>>416694
Depends. Do you want the full trials?
>>416715
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
>>416717
You can take it.
You can take it.
You CAN take it.
After you drop the iron, you hear the click of a lock opening.
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
>>416717
You can take it.
You can take it.
You CAN take it.
After you drop the iron, you hear the click of a lock opening.
>>416723
My eyes bolt open, heart throbbing. I offer myself the luxury of two breaths before I roll forward, snatching up my bow, and slinging my armor across my back.
In one fluid motion, I shoot back against the wall, into the corner, arrow nocked as a I scan the room for movement. Not noticing any, I gently release the tension on the bow and armor myself.
Look around from my corner-vantage. What's nearby? Just a crystal ball? Are there exits? Anything moving in the room?
My eyes bolt open, heart throbbing. I offer myself the luxury of two breaths before I roll forward, snatching up my bow, and slinging my armor across my back.
In one fluid motion, I shoot back against the wall, into the corner, arrow nocked as a I scan the room for movement. Not noticing any, I gently release the tension on the bow and armor myself.
Look around from my corner-vantage. What's nearby? Just a crystal ball? Are there exits? Anything moving in the room?
>>416727
"Then… do you know the creed you will from here on carry into battle? The one you will create to live by, fight by and serve by?"
>>416728
In this room, you are confronted with dozens and dozens of stallions.
A crystal ball sits in the middle of the room.
>>416729
The three seem to be trying to stop him from getting to the vault.
And succeeding.
>>416730
You can.
He stays silent…
>>416731
The room is blank and you are alone.
"Then… do you know the creed you will from here on carry into battle? The one you will create to live by, fight by and serve by?"
>>416728
In this room, you are confronted with dozens and dozens of stallions.
A crystal ball sits in the middle of the room.
>>416729
The three seem to be trying to stop him from getting to the vault.
And succeeding.
>>416730
You can.
He stays silent…
>>416731
The room is blank and you are alone.
>>416735
"Hey~"
"Hi there cutie"
"Come on in"
"Dat flank…"
>>416736
He just gives you a lingering look
The door is right there.
>>416737
Paladin Nock
Or should I call you Inquisitor
You need a strong body to live through what is demanded of your kind. Now is the time to see how you fare.
A door opens up in the far wall
>>416738
The wall gives in and you fall out into plain sight.
One of the three turns around
"Another one!"
"Protect the collection!"
"Hey~"
"Hi there cutie"
"Come on in"
"Dat flank…"
>>416736
He just gives you a lingering look
The door is right there.
>>416737
Paladin Nock
Or should I call you Inquisitor
You need a strong body to live through what is demanded of your kind. Now is the time to see how you fare.
A door opens up in the far wall
>>416738
The wall gives in and you fall out into plain sight.
One of the three turns around
"Another one!"
"Protect the collection!"
>>416742
Welcome.
We asked a few of our students if they'd want to participate in this, and we got more applicants than we had room for.
Have fun.
We're waiting on the other side, Paladin
Indeed many of the stallions are already quite… ready for action. Their eyes firmly on you.
>>416743
…it's the headmaster.
"Welcome, Paladin."
>>416745
He ain't listening
"Drop your weapons! What are you doing here? This is a restricted area!"
Welcome.
We asked a few of our students if they'd want to participate in this, and we got more applicants than we had room for.
Have fun.
We're waiting on the other side, Paladin
Indeed many of the stallions are already quite… ready for action. Their eyes firmly on you.
>>416743
…it's the headmaster.
"Welcome, Paladin."
>>416745
He ain't listening
"Drop your weapons! What are you doing here? This is a restricted area!"
>>416756
"We thought you might like a bit of… physical attention."
"We're all here just for you."
a few come and brush up to you, poking your flanks
>>416758
"Then you have learned.
And passed.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up back at the familiar academy.
>>416761
"What have these trials taught you?"
>>416762
As you hit, the target goes down, and you see a door on the far side lift up a little.
Three more hits and you can probably squeeze under it.
>>416765
>>416764
"HOSTILE! TAKE HIM DOWN!"
Another breaks off from Balsa as the third pins him down.
Two Collection Guards face you.
"We thought you might like a bit of… physical attention."
"We're all here just for you."
a few come and brush up to you, poking your flanks
>>416758
"Then you have learned.
And passed.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up back at the familiar academy.
>>416761
"What have these trials taught you?"
>>416762
As you hit, the target goes down, and you see a door on the far side lift up a little.
Three more hits and you can probably squeeze under it.
>>416765
>>416764
"HOSTILE! TAKE HIM DOWN!"
Another breaks off from Balsa as the third pins him down.
Two Collection Guards face you.
>>416766
Frown.
What's their angle…? This is an accuracy challenge, not a strength challenge. Strength would be piercing armor or a long distance shot… although I guess they're watching to see if I just stab them into the bullseye by hoof. Well… I'll play along for now. An Inquisitive mind stays alert for tricks, after all, but perhaps it's not a trick at all.
Wait twelve seconds (two rounds) between each shot. I can afford to take my time here, this is not a speed test. Stand back as far as I can and let fly each Trick Shot with my greatest strength. Draw to the limit!
'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'
Roll #1 9 + 3 = 12 / Roll #2 10 + 3 = 13 / Roll #3 8 + 3 = 11
Frown.
What's their angle…? This is an accuracy challenge, not a strength challenge. Strength would be piercing armor or a long distance shot… although I guess they're watching to see if I just stab them into the bullseye by hoof. Well… I'll play along for now. An Inquisitive mind stays alert for tricks, after all, but perhaps it's not a trick at all.
Wait twelve seconds (two rounds) between each shot. I can afford to take my time here, this is not a speed test. Stand back as far as I can and let fly each Trick Shot with my greatest strength. Draw to the limit!
'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'
Roll #1 9 + 3 = 12 / Roll #2 10 + 3 = 13 / Roll #3 8 + 3 = 11
>>416774
"My… Creed, sir?"
Take a deep breath.
"Sir, I will put all aside for the good of the many. Everything I will do will be for the good of ponykind.
No matter what my friends, what my family might think, I will pull through.
And I will take responsability for my actions and my failures."
Clench a hoof over the place I laid the iron down.
"My… Creed, sir?"
Take a deep breath.
"Sir, I will put all aside for the good of the many. Everything I will do will be for the good of ponykind.
No matter what my friends, what my family might think, I will pull through.
And I will take responsability for my actions and my failures."
Clench a hoof over the place I laid the iron down.
>>416776
Pinpoint perfect.
As you move to the door, you realize all the targets were rigged with crossbows.
Had you missed, they would have fired back…
In the next room you are confronted with some sort of magical barrier
>>416775
As you slide into a shadow, Balsa tosses the third guard onto the two you distracted
"Make way! The collection is mine!"
>>416780
Looks like your room.
>>416783
"We're all paladins here.
I'm a paladin, he's a paladin"
"I'll be a paladin next year"
"I've been a paladin for three years"
There is a door on the other end of the room.
>>416786
"Then keep that in your heart.
And keep it well.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up in your room.
Pinpoint perfect.
As you move to the door, you realize all the targets were rigged with crossbows.
Had you missed, they would have fired back…
In the next room you are confronted with some sort of magical barrier
>>416775
As you slide into a shadow, Balsa tosses the third guard onto the two you distracted
"Make way! The collection is mine!"
>>416780
Looks like your room.
>>416783
"We're all paladins here.
I'm a paladin, he's a paladin"
"I'll be a paladin next year"
"I've been a paladin for three years"
There is a door on the other end of the room.
>>416786
"Then keep that in your heart.
And keep it well.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up in your room.
>>416812
You take him entirely by surprise, tackling him down like the weeping mess you are.
He does his best to comfort you
"Shh… shh… it's ok…"
>>416814
The Headmaster is waiting for you in this room
"Paladin Sidus."
>>416816
"Past us."
"You've made good time so far."
>>416817
The elemental implodes
The other two rush you. Roll to dodge VS me
'2d10'
Roll #1 8, 3 = 11
You take him entirely by surprise, tackling him down like the weeping mess you are.
He does his best to comfort you
"Shh… shh… it's ok…"
>>416814
The Headmaster is waiting for you in this room
"Paladin Sidus."
>>416816
"Past us."
"You've made good time so far."
>>416817
The elemental implodes
The other two rush you. Roll to dodge VS me
'2d10'
Roll #1 8, 3 = 11
>>416832
"What did these trials teach you?"
>>416833
He looks confused at first, then glances down there, and looks even more confused
>>416834
"Friends to the end"
"With benefits"
The last door is past them
>>416838
You blast the mage off his hooves, destabilizing the remaining elementals and revealing a door on the wall
"What did these trials teach you?"
>>416833
He looks confused at first, then glances down there, and looks even more confused
>>416834
"Friends to the end"
"With benefits"
The last door is past them
>>416838
You blast the mage off his hooves, destabilizing the remaining elementals and revealing a door on the wall
>>416864
I think for a second.
"I learned that, as paladins, we face many temptations, in many forms.
The temptation to break our word, the temptation to use our holy powers for evil and that these temptations don't go away magically when we take our oaths.
But that if we remain vigilant and control our desires rather than let them rule us, we can rise above them."
I think for a second.
"I learned that, as paladins, we face many temptations, in many forms.
The temptation to break our word, the temptation to use our holy powers for evil and that these temptations don't go away magically when we take our oaths.
But that if we remain vigilant and control our desires rather than let them rule us, we can rise above them."
>>416874
"Then AWAKEN"
You wake up in bed
>>416875
Well done inquisitor.
But a strong arm is nothing if not guided by a sharp mind.
Find your way to your next goal. You can start in the next room.
>>416869
You are now out of bed.
Vera seems to be out in the yard with Leaf.
>>416877
"If you want to talk…
…I guess you don't though."
"Then AWAKEN"
You wake up in bed
>>416875
Well done inquisitor.
But a strong arm is nothing if not guided by a sharp mind.
Find your way to your next goal. You can start in the next room.
>>416869
You are now out of bed.
Vera seems to be out in the yard with Leaf.
>>416877
"If you want to talk…
…I guess you don't though."
>>416887
One letter? The difference between an orange… Difference between an orange and what?
Pause. What if it's a math problem – difference. Each letter could have a corresponding number value… No, the difference would be much larger than a single digit.
What if I think of it literally, but with the letters having greater meaning? T, like tee or tea, I like myself or eye. Is the center of an orange called an eye? … Probably not. A? No… B like bee? Possibly… bees pollinate oranges, right? Maybe I'm taking this too literally.
What about as a word puzzle? 'an' is part of 'orange', but that leaves 'orge', too many letters by far. Single letter? Think, Nock!
Examine the cubes. Are they multi-sided? And take a closer look at the slot.
One letter? The difference between an orange… Difference between an orange and what?
Pause. What if it's a math problem – difference. Each letter could have a corresponding number value… No, the difference would be much larger than a single digit.
What if I think of it literally, but with the letters having greater meaning? T, like tee or tea, I like myself or eye. Is the center of an orange called an eye? … Probably not. A? No… B like bee? Possibly… bees pollinate oranges, right? Maybe I'm taking this too literally.
What about as a word puzzle? 'an' is part of 'orange', but that leaves 'orge', too many letters by far. Single letter? Think, Nock!
Examine the cubes. Are they multi-sided? And take a closer look at the slot.
>>416906
So it seems I am forced to solve this puzzle. Let's work by elimination, then. There are only twenty six combinations, after all. I can't be stuck here.
"An orange. An or ange? That still leaves two letters: G, E."
Still, guessing is better than just busting down the door, I think.
Shove the G into the door slot and see if anything happens.
So it seems I am forced to solve this puzzle. Let's work by elimination, then. There are only twenty six combinations, after all. I can't be stuck here.
"An orange. An or ange? That still leaves two letters: G, E."
Still, guessing is better than just busting down the door, I think.
Shove the G into the door slot and see if anything happens.
>>416933
It leads to one moor room with a crystal ball
And a door at the back.
>>416932
As you sit there, watching the rising sun, she cuddles up close
"Sidus…
…you love me, don't you?"
>>416931
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
It leads to one moor room with a crystal ball
And a door at the back.
>>416932
As you sit there, watching the rising sun, she cuddles up close
"Sidus…
…you love me, don't you?"
>>416931
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
>>416935
Paladin Jonagold Apple
The measure of a sound mind is expanse of knowledge, clarity of thought, and understanding what is important among that which one knows.
There is a door on the far side of the room
>>416936
Paladin
Inquisitor
I do not know what to address you as.
So I'll let you choose instead.
The door has a round peg
And a square peg
They are on opposite sides of the door. They seem to twist like door handles, but are not possible to grip without knobs…
>>416937
"And you still want to share this dream with me… forever?"
Paladin Jonagold Apple
The measure of a sound mind is expanse of knowledge, clarity of thought, and understanding what is important among that which one knows.
There is a door on the far side of the room
>>416936
Paladin
Inquisitor
I do not know what to address you as.
So I'll let you choose instead.
The door has a round peg
And a square peg
They are on opposite sides of the door. They seem to twist like door handles, but are not possible to grip without knobs…
>>416937
"And you still want to share this dream with me… forever?"
>>416943
"Sidus…
If there was one thing those trials taught me… that all that pain and sacrifice proved to me… it's that with all my heart…
…I love you."
She looks you deep in your eyes, on the verge of tears
>>416944
On the other side is a large room.
Several doors are along the walls, and in the middle of the room, a large game board is laid out.
Attached is a note
[When kings go to war, it is soldiers that fall
Not knights nor lords but the common man
But when men go to war, then kings, too, fall
Before the might of many, never one
Move one right and two others move left
Step two forth and send the others one back
Go through the second door on the right
Or any other, if you wish to bring yourself plight
When but one king remains, all others long fallen
You, like he, will see, what it was all worth]
The game board is laid out in a grid, and features four sets of soldiers, knights and four kings.
>>416945
What are you indeed.
Paladin
or Inquisitor?
"Sidus…
If there was one thing those trials taught me… that all that pain and sacrifice proved to me… it's that with all my heart…
…I love you."
She looks you deep in your eyes, on the verge of tears
>>416944
On the other side is a large room.
Several doors are along the walls, and in the middle of the room, a large game board is laid out.
Attached is a note
[When kings go to war, it is soldiers that fall
Not knights nor lords but the common man
But when men go to war, then kings, too, fall
Before the might of many, never one
Move one right and two others move left
Step two forth and send the others one back
Go through the second door on the right
Or any other, if you wish to bring yourself plight
When but one king remains, all others long fallen
You, like he, will see, what it was all worth]
The game board is laid out in a grid, and features four sets of soldiers, knights and four kings.
>>416945
What are you indeed.
Paladin
or Inquisitor?
>>416953
Well, I don't know enough, that's for certain. And clearly, if I try and play this game I'll find out that it wasn't worth the effort, much like how a king would lose his subjects to a pointless war. So, I'm going to disregard the chess table for now, and just go through the second door on the right.
Well, I don't know enough, that's for certain. And clearly, if I try and play this game I'll find out that it wasn't worth the effort, much like how a king would lose his subjects to a pointless war. So, I'm going to disregard the chess table for now, and just go through the second door on the right.
>>416984
I'll rub my nose slightly.
"Well, the bear wouldn't exactly let me talk him out of it…"
Looking at the doors, I'll consider.
Should I go through the small, humbling door, or the large door?
"I shouldn't debase myself just because I lost. If I did that, I would have done it when Sidus beat the tar out of me the first day. And I got better since then. Losing's just showing me I've got more to learn."
So I'll open the big door.
I'll rub my nose slightly.
"Well, the bear wouldn't exactly let me talk him out of it…"
Looking at the doors, I'll consider.
Should I go through the small, humbling door, or the large door?
"I shouldn't debase myself just because I lost. If I did that, I would have done it when Sidus beat the tar out of me the first day. And I got better since then. Losing's just showing me I've got more to learn."
So I'll open the big door.
>>417001
"But this is hardly the time or place for it, Nurse. And besides, Star could have been a healer if she had wanted to, so I'd feel more comfortable with her giving the final yay or neigh on it."
I'll scoot back slightly.
"I know you're likely only asking that out of concern and followup for a patient, but as I said, during the trials ain't the time for an inspection."
"But this is hardly the time or place for it, Nurse. And besides, Star could have been a healer if she had wanted to, so I'd feel more comfortable with her giving the final yay or neigh on it."
I'll scoot back slightly.
"I know you're likely only asking that out of concern and followup for a patient, but as I said, during the trials ain't the time for an inspection."
>>417016
"That I overlook the simple solution at first, that I don't know when to cut and run if the situation calls for it, and… and that my priorities so far have been off."
I'll set my jaw a little.
"But I also learned that when faced with a problem, I can solve it, given time. When faced with an overwhelming opponent, I'm not afraid, even if I'm alone. Because I'm not, really. As for the third trial… I learned that when it comes down to it, I can make the choice that I should, even if I don't like what might happen."
"That I overlook the simple solution at first, that I don't know when to cut and run if the situation calls for it, and… and that my priorities so far have been off."
I'll set my jaw a little.
"But I also learned that when faced with a problem, I can solve it, given time. When faced with an overwhelming opponent, I'm not afraid, even if I'm alone. Because I'm not, really. As for the third trial… I learned that when it comes down to it, I can make the choice that I should, even if I don't like what might happen."