/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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PirateQuest: Chapter 2.4: Heads Will Roll Wf+6 288953

Summer.
In a flurry of hooves, you are shoved into the ramshackle church and the door is slammed behind you. You've never seen a building like it. The walls are warped and completely mismatched, made of woods from shockingly different colors, from mahogany, to birch, to oak. The aisles are lined with stained glass windows, mostly made from discarded bottles and other wasteglass. There are rows of chairs from every locale imaginable: seats torn from carriages, stools from bars, and rocking chairs from porches. You think you even see a toilet.

At the end of the aisle, turned away from you, there is a pony turned away from you, reading some book - probably scripture - at a podium. It is wearing a large cloak-like cape of white, but ends at the neck, and you can see a mild gray mane. Beneath it, a coat of light blue.

It is quiet inside, despite the ruckus going on outside. For a salvaged structure, this place is solidly built.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 288963

>>288953
"What is this place…"
I look around with a mixture of curiosity and fright, shivering as I notice the pony.

Wf+6 288970

>>288963
Without turning, the pony speaks. You can tell by the voice it is a mare.

"Welcome to our sanctuary, Sister."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 288981

>>288970
I yelp and jump up as I hear her speak,
"Wh- who are you? Y- You're… not going to… h- hurt me, are you?"
I whimper.

Wf+6 288985

>>288981
"Would I hurt my sister? You role has been chosen by the Divine. I am her humble servant, as are you."

Her voice seems to echo, which is mysterious, given that wood is a reasonable sound absorber.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 288996

>>288985
"Sister?… But you're not my sister… and who chose me?"
I look around, frightened by the echo of her voice.

Wf+6 289010

>>288996
She remains at her altar.

"We are not bound by blood. We are bound by something far greater. Our service to the Divine. I know that She has visited you and given you an incredible gift to heal the sick. She did this in Her plan to help us retake the city. I brought you here that you might lead the charge and bask in the glory you rightly deserve."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289020

>>289010
"Lead the charge? Bask in the glory? Blessed by her? What are you saying? Do you mean Luna? I don't understand what y you're saying…"

Wf+6 289027

>>289020
You can almost feel her grin. You're not sure whether it's supposed to be comforting or insidious… but it certainly is passionate.

"Approach me. Let me show you who I am."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289036

>>289027
I apprehensively approach her, my fright increasing with each step I take.

Wf+6 289051

>>289036
When you arrive at the raised ground of the stage, she turns and approaches the side of the pulpit. She's an imposing mare, with a fierce air about her. One of her forelegs is artificial, replaced with wood.

"I am Provost Seed Sower. In this House, you will only find peace, love, and acceptance, for you are the chosen of Celestia."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289077

>>289051
"Miss… Provst Seed Sour, a- are you sure you have the right pony? I don't like even like fighting!…"

Wf+6 289090

>>289077
She smiles at you. "Celestia blesses us all with unique gifts, Summer Seas. You have no doubt met my followers, who have a talent for fighting. But you will hold no sword. A sword is nothing to your potential. You have a power not unlike my own, and neither of us is meant to spill blood. I wish to offer you the opportunity to save this city, and become an immortalized as a hero of Her name."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289096

>>289090
"Be a hero?… But miss Provst Seed Sour, I can just heal ponies! I can't be a hero!"

Wf+6 289105

>>289096
She bends down as far as her wooden leg will let her.

"Summer Seas, if I told you that one pony killed ten, and a different pony saved ten, which would you call the hero?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289121

>>289105
"…The pony that healed ten?"
I meet her gaze more confidently and hopeful.
"So… I can really be a hero?"

Wf+6 289138

>>289121
"Everyone can be a hero, Summer, even those that don't intend to be. You have a gift, and you should share it with this world."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289143

>>289138
"Really?… How do I do that? I healed all the ponies in that… tri… trinfirmary!"
My ears perk up at 'remembering' the weird word, but fall back down.
"I don't know where else to go now…"

Wf+6 289147

>>289143
"Summer, have you seen the awful conditions of the city in this district? How the good, honest ponies live in squalor, disease, and poverty, while the corrupt live like kings?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289153

>>289147
"They do?… That's terrible! Why do they let that happen to those ponies?…"

Wf+6 289157

>>289153
"Because they profit off of their subjugation, Summer Seas. But we can change that today. Today, all of the most important ponies will be gathering in their own district to celebrate the coming of age of yet another heiress. One that claims to love Celestia, but does nothing to help those suffering. If we could show them what the ponies here are suffering, I believe it would cause them to realize how wrongly they have treated these poor ponies."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289175

>>289157
"How do we show them? What're we gonna do?"

Wf+6 289194

>>289175
"The disease you cured today was what we call the Heretical Plague. The rich have made no effort to find a cure for it, and our best scholars have been lost trying to find a way to liberate ourselves from it. The Plague takes days to finally claim its victims, of course. All I want is your support. You see, the so-called-Holy Guard expect me to use their ceremony to make a statement today. They think I plan to send assassins or an army. Instead I have asked my follower to drop the corpses of the afflicted into their wells. When they draw up the water for the party, it will be used to wash all of their dishes, be served as drinks, and even be mixed into their alcohol as a cost-cutting effort. The entire party will be infected. With your abilities, we will offer them the cure… if they agree to create a better environment for the poor in this city, and share their wealth with their suffering fellow ponies. Then all you have to do is repeat today's miracle. Make good on our side of the deal."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289210

>>289194
"But… that disease was evil! That poor pony was in so much pain! You really wanna make them all sick too?"

Wf+6 289217

>>289210
"It is a small sacrifice for the good it could do, Summer. And as long as your skills hold true, which, blessed of Celestia, they will, there is no risk. They can afford to turn a blind eye because they don't have to see how these ponies suffer daily. We have to show them in a way they can't ignore."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289229

>>289217
"But… can't you show them in a way that won't hurt anypony? The disease is in the air! You breath their breath and you catch it too! It'll end badly!"

Wf+6 289233

>>289229
"Summer, do I strike you as a very clever pony? Be candid with me. No reasoning. No qualifications. Yes or no?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289240

>>289233
"I- I don't know… I don't know!"
Small tears start filling my eyes.
"I don't know… I don't want to hurt ponies…"

Wf+6 289248

>>289240
She puts her non-wooden hoof on your shoulder.

"And you won't, Summer. I just need you to heal ponies. There was not a truly right or wrong answer to that question. In truth, I do not think I am much of a pony on my own. To think too highly of one's self is hubris. Prideful. Sinful. The truth is that I spread the rumors that I would attack the ceremony myself. I did this because I knew they would erect a magic bubble. It is a very common type of defensive shield that prevents intruders and attacks. It also prevents things like airborne diseases from leaving, which makes it useful for quarantines. They have already shielded the party grounds. The disease is and will be contained."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289250

>>289248
"So… no ponies are going to get hurt? I just have to heal them?"
I look up at her through tear filled eyes.

Wf+6 289251

>>289250
"Not as long as you are successful. No one has ever died before two days after contracting the disease. I am sure their faint hearts will relent within the day. As long as they are not so stubborn that they refuse our aid, they will be fine."

She pauses.

"It was not necessary to tell you all of this. I could have just told you they got sick of their own accord and we needed to help them… but that would be deceitful. I wanted to be totally honest with you, Summer Seas, because I sincerely believe in you with all of my heart. Do you understand? This is what makes you my sister in faith."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289253

>>289251
>>289251
"I… I do understand. When is this thing? How many ponies are gonna be there?"

Wf+6 289256

>>289253
"The party begins this afternoon at the fifth hour. You are by no means restricted here, so you are free to go as long as you remain safe. My followers will watch from the shadows to make sure no one hurts you. It is not a vote of no confidence: as you are the only one who can cure them, it is critical we make sure you are not lost. We do wish to honor side of the deal: we are not liars."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289258

>>289256
"…Alright, miss Provst Seed Sour. And um…"
I look away.
"Will my friends be safe too?"

Wf+6 289261

>>289258
"Friends? I didn't know anyone was waiting on you outside. My followers can be… protective, at times. So long as they travel with you, they will bear my protection until the party, when you must return to my sanctuary."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289263

>>289261
I give her a hug.
"Thank you… so I'm free to go now? Can I go back to my mom- sister?"

Wf+6 289264

>>289263
Given that she doesn't even know who is supposed to be with you, she doesn't seem to be bothered by your statement.

She struggles with the hug a little bit, having difficulty due to her leg, but then nods.

"Yes, you are free to go see your mother and sister. You may come and go from this place as you choose."

Wf+6 289266

>>289264
As you leave, she calls to you from the slightly raised floor of the 'stage' at the front of the sanctuary.

"Oh, and Summer?"

She indicates your collar.

"When the time of Judgment comes, all slaves will be freed."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289267

>>289264
I release her from the hug.
"Okay! I'll be back later then! Good bye!"
I leave.
…I wonder where that nurse went. Didn't mister Chip take him somewhere?
I look around. Can I see him?

Wf+6 289270

>>289267
He's gone. Your mother isn't in plain sight either, though you can't remember seeing her after the guards started to close in. She must have run away…

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289282

>>289270
…Oh.
Maybe… maybe I can figure out where she ran off to! Yeah! '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Wf+6 289285

>>289267
>>289270
>>289282
>she
>calling him a she again
As you head through the district looking for a friendly face, you notice the upper (physically on an incline, being elevated) slums are swarming with ponies in suits. Something exciting must have happened. You decide not to get trampled and head the other way.

You pass the slum bar as you walk past a major intersection. This thing has seen better days! You see a broken second floor window, and military-coated ponies are filtering out, with a pair posted at the door. As you're distracted, watching them investigate, you hear a kind voice behind you.

"I never got a chance to repay you for your efforts."

You turn, and at first you think it's the nurse you were with before, but then you realize it's a real mare, not just an effeminate stallion. She's wearing a nurse outfit, and you almost think you remember seeing her before, though most of the triage was a blur of emotion.

"My friend got you ice cream, but I feel like you deserve a little more. Will you join me for some shopping?"

Your intuition tells you that the nurse you were with before is in that tavern for some reason, but those military ponies don't seem to want any interruptions…

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289291

>>289285
I- I was talking about Spring! Not the nurse!
"Huh? Do I know you?"
I try to remember if I saw this mare… do I recognize her? At all? '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Wf+6 289295

>>289291
You think you remember her. It's all so fuzzy. She definitely looks familiar, but you're not sure if it's just the nurse outfit.

Woops. Well, she's auto-tailing you now.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289296

>>289295
Alright!
"Who are you miss Nurse? Did I see you at the trinfirmary?"

Wf+6 289298

>>289296
She nods. "Remember? I was helping with the mare that you… well…"

She trails off.

"But you made her better later, so it's alright!"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289301

>>289298
"Oh… that mare…"
My ears flop to my head.
"Has she woken up yet? Did you tell her what happened?"

Wf+6 289303

>>289301
She bites her lip.

"I don't know. I actually left to take my break, and when I came back, all of those uniformed ponies had seized the clinic. They were holding everyone up and questioning, so I was afraid and left for the day…"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289304

>>289303
"Oh…"
I lower my head in shame.
"Can we visit there soon? I wanna make sure she's okay…"

Wf+6 289307

>>289304
"Maybe after all those ponies leave… So shall we go to the shops?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289311

>>289307
"Okay."
I noticeably perk up at the possibility of shopping.
"Um… where are we gonna go? I don't have any money…"

Wf+6 289315

>>289311
She blinks, then smiles. "Well, I was going to take you to the toy shop and buy you a teddy ursa, but maybe you're too old for those…"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289321

>>289315
"Y- You were gonna buy it for me? Really?"
My eyes shine with excitement.

Wf+6 289322

>>289321
She nods. "You earned it."

Wf+6 289324

>>289322
[Pause]

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289325

>>289322
I hop over to her and pull her into a big hug.
"Oh thank you thank you thank you!"

PirateQuest Interlude Wf+6 289903

Pirate's Story
After the run-in with Ranger Jane at the tavern, you've returned to Humble's house. You opened the door just in time to see Ruxiang flick a knife into the board where he is playing Lieutenant Sunnyskies in high-stakes Candyland (given that it is the only game Humble has).

Abilio is there, as is Mellow Marsh, keeping a watchful eye over the recovering Face.

Felfire's Story
You've arrived back at Humble's house to find Face was gravely wounded. He needs attention from a real healer, and given that Chip wasted the time he should have been capturing the unicorns by fucking a stallion, the only option appears to be Doc Peg. Well, at least you'll get another trip through Tartarus out of it.

Chip's Story
Abilio verbally abuses you for a while about letting Summer slip away. The standard villain lines. "You have failed me for the last time!" and "How could a little girl outsmart a highly-trained pirate?" He doesn't seem too concerned about Spring being missing, though. You should probably get back on that job.

Sandor's Story
With everyone breaking up, you're left recalling you have unfinished business.

Wf+6 289906

Unicorn's Story
The nurse leads Summer Seas back into the Mercantile District and you make a bee line for the toy shop. From the outside alone, it looks amazing with all of its decorations, but it's breath-taking inside. Teddy ursas aren't like teddy bears: they're dolls that appear to be stuffed full of stars rather than cloth. The building is also filled with toys, magical and mundane, like train sets and pipes that blow smoke in rings.

Spring Water is still following the pair in stealth.

Nopony 289911

>>289903
I guess I'll just wander around there and see the situation with the 'church'

Felfire [Necromancer] 289912

>>289903
"You don't die on me Face, I'd hate to share my heart between you and skelly back there!"

Sándor [Knight] 289913

>>289911
Disguise master!

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289914

>>289906
Slip out of stealth and jump in front of them
"Hey!"

Wf+6 289918

>>289912
Abilio opens another portal and escorts the two of you through to Terrebonne's room. She seems a little surprised to see Felfire.

"Ah taut she stayed behind last time? Huh… coulda sworn I just saw her. Jast as well. I have someting ta show yah when yah take him ta see da Doctah."

>>289911
By the time you make it back to the square, the church is already being erected once again. One of the priests seems to be singing and playing on his fiddle the most boring gospel/country song you've ever heard. You think you make out some of the lyrics to be, "Raise this church, raise this church, one two three four."

Sándor [Knight] 289919

>>289918
Any other ponies around?

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289920

>>289906
"So. Many. Toys!"
I run over to one of the teddy ursas. I- Is it soft?
I give it a hug.
>>289914
"Mo- Spring!"
I run over and giver her a hug as well.

Wf+6 289921

>>289920
You can't even conceive of it. It must be enchanted or something, because it appears to be a constellation, but when you touch it you can actually feel a physical cloth bear there. It's very warm to the touch.

Wf+6 289922

>>289919
There are tons of ponies helping raise the church.

Felfire [Necromancer] 289923

>>289918
"Yeah sorry Terre, things got ugly back there and that stupid dog didn't bring the unicorns back.
Will be to you as soon as I've dropped Face off."
Go to the doc.

[lemon] 289924

>>289903
Listen through it all and goes outside again to the streets.
Thats stupid of me.
But thats one sexy ass there.
Alright concentrate.

Go back to the merchant district and to that dilapidated church to see if the cult is still there.

'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

Sándor [Knight] 289926

>>289922
Fuck.
Any sign of the other priest?

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289928

>>289920
"Thank the Moon you're okay… I've been following you around all the time but I couldn't do anything!"
I stomp a hoof
"I want to be older! I can't protect you like this!"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289929

>>289921
Oh gosh…
This would be so nice to have on the ship…
Maybe Spring would like a board game more… so we can play something!
I go to the boardgames section.
>>289928
"So why not go find that one pony and get him to reverse the spell?"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289933

>>289929
"Because…"
I lower my voice
"We need to hide from them, sweetie. We need to get out of this city and go back home!"

Wf+6 289936

>>289924
There are two churches in the merchant district. One is the official Church of Celestia, and it's far from in disrepair: it's hulking and even has water features.

The other church is a minor Church of Celestia made out of wood that is in the process of being repaired.

The only other thing resembling a church in town is the sanctuary of the Order of the Virtuous in the lower class district.

>>289928
The nurse chuckles. "Everypony wants to be older when they're your age, dear. You'll be a full grown mare before you know it, I'm sure."

>>289926
He's not there. He's probably off buying supplies.

>>289924
That daycare class from before seems to be at recess. You lose track of time watching them play from outside the school yard.

>>289923
The Doctor's clinic is locked, but after you beat the door a few times with your hoof, a pony opens the door. You think your eyes are playing tricks on you, because it's almost as if someone was holding a mirror to the crack of the door: you only see yourself for a moment, then the door slams shut and reopens less than a second later. Doc Peg is there, and all smiles. Must have been a trick of the eye. Is something affecting ponies on the ship?

He tries to work out something to say, and finally chokes out, "Patient?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289940

>>289933
"But… you can't stay a foal forever! I- I… I want my momma back…"
I sniffle.

Wf+6 289942

>>289929
In the board games section, you find all the classics, like dominos, chess, checkers, backgammon, and the like. There are also strange magic games, some of which actually have purchase restrictions. You see an item labeled a "necromancer's board" that actually has an age limit and requires a license.

Sándor [Knight] 289943

>>289936
Fuck this. High risk high reward.
Walk to the priest.
"Hey. You. I saw who did this. I can show you to her, but it's in a pretty dangerous part of town, so only you can come. I don't want to bother saving the ass of some stupid fucks who want to follow me around. But you deserve to know who did this."

Felfire [Necromancer] 289944

>>289936
Sigh. Long explanation time.
"Face got hurt in a fight against a head hunter. We killed her but he needs attentions. Can we come in and put him on the operating table?"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289946

>>289936
I scrunch, but don't comment.

>>289940
"I… I know, but… you don't want to go back to those awful cells on those ships, do you?"

Wf+6 289953

>>289943
He shakes his head. "Friend, whoever did this, I forgive them. That's what Celestia wants from you: not your money, not your blade. Your love. And look how it has brought our community together! I dare say it was about time we had a church project. Thank you for your concern, though. If you want to really help me, why not visit my next sermon? I don't recognize your face."

>>289944
He nods his head rapidly. "We got Face. Go." After you deposit him on the table, he gestures a dismissal at you and sets to work with his horn, healing the bullet wound.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289954

>>289942
Ooh.
What kinda magic games are there?
>>289946
"They weren't that bad… Maybe we can ask the pirates for some pillows?"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289962

>>289954
"… sweetheart, they… they are mean ponies… remember what they did to our clinic…"

Felfire [Necromancer] 289964

>>289953
Move at a side and look at him work.
"Up. Down. Left. Right. This room. The other. Locker. Bed. Near. Far. Where is the alcohol?
I know what I saw, that was me for a second there. We gotta talk."

Sándor [Knight] 289967

>>289953
"Yeah, that's nice, but I think she called Celestia a 'fucking slut' too. Or at least she said she can choke on a rancid dick as she kicked down this Church. But if you are okay with that, I'm guess I am too."

Wf+6 289974

>>289954
You see everything from three dimensional chess, with floating boards, to some game that apparently has invisible pieces and it is forbidden to tell someone the rules (literally magically so: the enchantment prevents any discussion nearby).

You also see a few others, one labeled Jumanji, which seems to be about safaris or something, and some sort of gravity puzzle game. You think you notice a game that involves some sort of time travel, but your head begins to hurt when you remember you haven't visited that side of the shop yet. You walk over and see it, but promptly forget about it. There's also some sort of game that involves controlling the included goldfish with basic mind control.

>>289964
"Down." He indicates the operating table: there's a cabinet door on your side, but not his. You open it up and his bottle of vodka is sitting there.

>>289967
He shrugs. "Celestia has been called much worse, and yet in her divine wisdom and power, chooses to forgive. What right do I have to overrule her? Besides, I think I already know who it is. I imagine I shall have to send a fruit basket and invite the clergy at the other Church in this city to visit. I think they may have lost their way along the path. Would you care to make some money? I would pay you to make the delivery: I'm a bit tied up at the moment with the reconstruction."

Felfire [Necromancer] 289977

>>289974
"Good. Once you are done you can drink. Work on my wingpony for now."

Sándor [Knight] 289980

>>289974
"…where to?"

Wf+6 289981

>>289980
"I believe that this misguided mare who tried to knock down our church was either hired by or is a member of a competing church here. Even if she isn't, I know they're skeptical of our beliefs, and it doesn't hurt to be neighborly. The main temple of the city is hard to miss. I trust you've seen it?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289984

>>289962
"…oh. I- I forgot…"
I uncomfortably shuffle my hooves.
>>289974
That gravity puzzle thing looks interesting. What's it about? Can multiple ponies play it?

Wf+6 289990

>>289984
It seems to be more of a sandbox game than anything else. There are little pellets that stick in the air where you leave them, unaffected by gravity. Then there are cubes that are only affected by gravity fields generated by the pellets, allowing you to send the cubes orbiting, or fling them around with a gravity slingshot. Rearranging the pellets and number/orientation of the cubes gives essentially infinite combinations.

Felfire [Necromancer] 289991

Spring Water [Charlatan] 289992

>>289984
I sigh and walk up to the nurse
"So… what's your name?"

Sándor [Knight] 289994

>>289981
"Yes."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 289997

>>289990
Sounds fun!
I grab a box and bring it over to the nurse, lifting it up to show her and peeking over it.
"Can I get this miss Nurse? And can my sister get something too?"

Wf+6 290003

>>289977
It takes a few minutes of intense work to remove the huge chunk of rifled metal in Face's back. Simply healing over it would leave him to die of lead poisoning. He starts by applying local anesthetic and levitating out the bolt, then he extracts the shrapnel, mends the damaged ribs, and even extracts excess residue and treats the area for infection. He finally closes the wound with general healing.

Soon, he's good as new, but fatigued.

He looks up and seems to struggle with an answer, but then Face pipes up: "Thanks for savin' me, Doc. I think I've got it from here. You want met to clear out?"

He grins. "I hear you, clear out!"

After he's gone, he turns to you: "Out-thinking me?"

>>289994
He rifles around a bit in his tools and extracts a fruit basket. What kind of toolkit is that?

He hands you fifteen bits and the basket. "Please take this to them as a gesture of good will."

>>289992
She smiles. "Cauterized Cut. And yours?"

>>289997
She nods. "It doesn't look very expensive. Just be careful: it says those pieces can stick to the insides of your intestines and cause internal bleeding if you eat them. That sounds like a nightmare to fix…"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290006

>>290003
"I'm old enough to know not to eat things that aren't meant to be eaten! I've helped enough ponies with their foals that ate small plastic pieces to know not to do that anyways…"
I give her another hug.
"And thank you so much! Thank you thank you thank you!"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290008

>>290003
Pass him the whisky.
"Nothing of sort. Just want to know what to expect from stallion that will have to save my life. So, care to explain that little trick? I don't care if it's some fetish of yours, entitled to fuck however and whatever you like."

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290009

>>290003
"Spring Water."
I look her over
"You're a nurse then?"
I look back at Summer being excited
"… Thank you. Really. The last few weeks… they haven't been kind to us… You are probably one of the few friendly faces I've seen in a long time…"

Sándor [Knight] 290012

>>290003
"Is that all?"

Wf+6 290014

>>290008
>whisky
He takes a gulp of it and waits a moment for it to take effect. It gives him a solid pause to think out his answer.

"Nothing so deviant, and yet… worse still. I do not think you want to know."

>>290012
He nods. "Unless you want to help finish the church. If not, have a blessed day nonetheless."

>>290009
She melts. "Awww, but you're such a little cutie! Who couldn't love you?"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290017

>>290014
>vodka
>ops…
Go sit somewhere.
"Now you got me all curious Doc…"
Smirk at him.

Wf+6 290019

>>290017
He raises a brow. "Are you sure? You can't unring a bell. It may warp your perception of me, and potentially endanger you in the future. Maybe it's best you think I'm a pervert and I happen to have an inflatable Felfire that I managed to buy or make in the brief period you've been on the ship."

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290020

>>290014
I look away
I need my adult body back, this is ridiculous. She'll probably start pinching my cheeks soon
"This town isn't exactly very open and kind."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290021

>>290020
"Yeah… some of the ponies are really mean. Like those guards.
…Maybe we can go visit Humble, Spring? She was nice…"

Sándor [Knight] 290022

>>290014
"To be honest… I don't suppose you take confessions?"
Glance back at the other ponies.
"Without others butting in my business?"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290023

>>290019
"Look doc you already have this thing of copying words, if you told me you can copy bodies I wouldn't mind.
After all, you is you, better know the truth. I don't hide the fact I fuck pile of bones, eck, I did it in front of everyone back in the city!
So just stallion up and tell me!"

Wf+6 290026

>>290020
>>290021
She sighs. "I know it seems like that sometimes, but not everyone is that bad. I think most people are just afraid of getting infected by that plague, or think the poor are in league with that villainous Order of the Virtuous."

>>290023
He drops his unicorn disguise entirely.

"The truth is that I am a severed Changeling. My speech impediment is a result of being broken off from my colony. My kind are designed to mimic: I call it Echo Syndrome. I was abusing my power recently to see what Terrebonne thought of you without asking directly in person."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290028

>>290026
"Ohohohoh that's precious! I knew you were one of them!"
Start laughing maniacally.
"Really, it's beautiful! Ahah!
So tell me your story. How in tartarus does something as a severed changeling exist?"
Lean closer to him, inspect his body.

Sándor [Knight] 290029

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290030

>>290026
Wouldn't be all that surprised if they were.
"Well, again, thank you for this gift for Summer. I'm thinking though… is there a chance you could help us get back home? We're not from this city."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290031

>>290026
"W- Well… maybe things will get better?"
I give her a hopeful look, with a glint of knowledge in my eye.
>>290030
"Um… can we visit Humble first? I wanna see how she's doing!"

Wf+6 290032

>>290022
He considers it for a moment, then nods. "Of course, my brother. I understand that confessions may be embarrassing, but they do relieve the strain of your soul. We don't have a formal confessional booth, but there is a library near here with study rooms, if that would suit you…"

>>290030
She nods. "As a matter of fact, I can. No trouble at all."

>>290028
He shakes his wings a little, causing the gossamer threads to sparkle in the light. "I do not remember much about my life before I was severed. It was mostly a blur of following the Hive's commands. I believe the purpose of my severance was for some sort of research, but through my natural talent for mimicry, I picked up the ability to heal others from the doctors I observed. Eventually the program was to be shut down, and I was forced to escape before they returned me to the Hive. I do not particularly care to stop being an individual."

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290033

>>290031
I shake my head
"No! I don't want to go near that place."

Sándor [Knight] 290034

>>290032
"Yeah, that will do. Just needs to be nice and quiet. Wouldn't want anypony else to hear my secrets."

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290035

>>290032
I give her a wide grin
"Now that's good news! When can we leave?"

Wf+6 290036

>>290031
The nurse smiles sympathetically. "Is Humble a friend of yours?"

>>290035
She waves a hoof when she's interrupted. "Uh-uh. Fillies shouldn't speak out of turn! It's rude to interrupt."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290038

>>290032
Keep looking him over from every side and talk with a distant voice.
"I hear you, being an individual is the best thing that ever happened to me…"
Then, suddenly stop in front of him and perk up.
"I wanna do it! Teach me!"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290040

>>290036
"Yeah! She's a nice mare we met a while ago… she came here but I don't know where she is now."

Wf+6 290041

>>290038
He gives you a wry look. "Teach you to be a changeling? I think you're missing some body parts. This is not a gift that can be taught, nor spread, like some sort of vampirism. And more often than not, I would much rather to be able to talk normally than disguise myself."

Sándor [Knight] 290042

Wf+6 290044

>>290040
She smiles. "I'd be happy to help you find her before you go."

>>290042
He nods. "Very well."

He leads you off to the library, and a reading room is selected, curtains drawn.

"What have you to confess, my brother?"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290045

>>290036
You did not just wave me away!
I frown

>>290040
"But she's surrounded by bad ponies!"

Sándor [Knight] 290046

>>290044
How alone are we?
How soundproof is it?

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290048

>>290044
"What? No! We can't go there!"

Wf+6 290049

>>290046
No one else is inside or can see inside the room. The room is reasonably shielded against sound, but then again, it is a library.

>>290048
"Why don't you go pick out a toy, Spring? I have something to ask your big sister."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290050

>>290045
>>290048
"Just for a little bit! Pleeeease?"

Sándor [Knight] 290052

>>290049
"I was hired to kill you. No hard feelings."
Please just have a weak enough neck that I can Cleave it off in one swing.
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

Felfire [Necromancer] 290053

>>290041
"Argh that's so unfair! How many ponies know what you are, here on the boat?
I mean, evidently Terre didn't know or she wouldn't have been so surprised after seeing me drop out of the tartarian gate!"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290054

>>290049
Whoever invented these agespells… I wish I knew some Spellbreakers… Horseapples!
"I don't need a toy!"

>>290050
"Why? Why would we go there? We can finally go home after all these weeks!"

[lemon] 290064

>>289936
FUUU!! fallen asleep!!

Go to the order of the virtuo…. wait let me see if I forget that.

'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Wf+6 290066

>>290052
He dies pretty easily. You're one cold killer.

>>290053
He shakes his head. "She knows. In fact, most of the officers know. I just rarely abuse my power. I think she's used to seeing me stuttering to find combinations of the words of others. You see, my other means of speaking normally is to mimic another pony. I can pass undetected, mimicking tone and phrasing. She may have already pieced it together by now. A pity, but she'll forgive me. She always does."

>>290054
She gives you the first non-kind look you've seen from her yet. "It's very important, and it's a conversation for big ponies. I won't be able to help you leave if you don't let me talk to her, alright? So go find a toy you like."

>>290064
You played your part of getting distracted by a class of fillies perfectly with your absence.

Chip(DD knight) 290069

>>290064
Partially, go to the slums to visit the order

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290070

>>290066
"Huh? What do you want to talk to me about?…"

Wf+6 290071

>>290069
You may want to see the Order, but they don't want to see you. They seem a little disgusted by your deviant behavior when you arrive at the sanctuary.

"What do you want, hedonist?"

>>290070
"About how I can help you get home, of course!"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290073

>>290066
"Meh, I did forgive you already.
Just, what did you ask her?"

Sándor [Knight] 290077

>>290066
Finally.
Seathe my sword, then leave back to the Church that hired me.

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290078

>>290066
Yeah right, like you'll actually ditch a filly for something like this. I may look young, but I'm a damn mother. I know these tricks.
I just sit down and look at Summer

Chip(DD knight) 290079

>>290071
"I am back to ask about Summer Sea, where is she?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290080

>>290071
"Oh! Okay."
>>290078
"Spring? Why are you just sitting there? You should go find a toy!"

Wf+6 290084

>>290073
He pauses. "Exactly what I told you before. I asked her, as you, what she thought of me. Now that I consider her answer… maybe she knew it was me, and was just playing along? She does enjoy toying with me as much as I do with her…"

>>290079
"The Provost has turned her loose to do as she sees fit. She bears the protection of the Provost: if you attempt to harm her, you will be cut down as a heretic."

>>290077
You head back and find the temple. The pony that hired you, the Bishop, seems busy collecting his "tithe" tax. There's a guard with him, just in case anyone tries to steal his money box.

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290087

>>290080
I scrunch
"No thanks. I'll be fine, Summer. I need to keep watch over you."

Sándor [Knight] 290090

>>290084
Give him the gift basket.
Without the money of course.
"Got a present for you."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290093

>>290084
Smirk.
"Now you can really help me. What did she say?"

Chip(DD knight) 290097

>>290084
Great
"I am her 'legal' protector too you know until you lunatics 'illegally' kidnapped her in front of me and held her in place. Just tell me where she is now so that I can resume my duty that is assigned by her mother." I cross my arms together in disdain at the member of the order that I am talking.

Wf+6 290098

>>290093
"She said that I seemed like a foal, but then laughed when I didn't understand. Does that make any sense to you? Maybe I blew my cover."

>>290090
He nods, and accepts the basket. "Of course, do not assume this will be deducted from your weekly tithe, but thank you for your consideration. Celestia will bless you with equal proportion to your gifts."

Sándor [Knight] 290100

>>290098
"I'm not here about the tithe. I'm here to speak business."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290101

>>290087
"But she wants to tell me something! And it might be a secret! You told me it's bad to talk about other people's secrets, and isn't overhearing one kinda similar to that?"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290102

>>290098
"Yep. Next time you want to spy on someone, gather info!
I looked into the mirror and all I saw was a foal version of me, strange but true."
Smile at him.
"Terre wanted to talk to me. Will come back to check on my partner later. Thanks for the chat."
Make my way back to Terrebonne's chamber.

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290103

>>290101
"This is different!"

Wf+6 290106

>>290097
The mare gives you a Costanza face. "How would I know where she went? I've been posted here for the whole day."

>>290100
He gives you a smirk. "Then where is he? I haven't heard anything."

>>290102
When you make your way back to Terrebonne's chamber, she greets you warmly. "Dat certainly took a while. Is da Doctah losing his tauch?"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290110

>>290106
"Yeah got him to spill his beans."
Giggle a bit.
"So, what was it?"
Seat near her and give a smile.
"I'm in a good mood today!"

Sándor [Knight] 290112

>>290106
"You might want to check the Library for a good read. Just don't get ahead of yourself. Also, I head there was an accident at the other church, what a tragedy, isn't it?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290114

>>290103
"Pleeease? I wanna hear what she has to say…"
I give her a pouting face.

Chip(DD knight) 290117

>>290106
>>290106
I scratch my head, oh well.
"Just tell me who might know so I can ask them. I would be in deep trouble if her guardians find out I lost her only daughter. I hope that a mare such as you might understand." I frown a bit.

290118

>>290114
"Summer. We wont go to see Humble. It's too dangerous. We can't take risks like this."

Roll #0 4 = 4

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290120

>>290118
"Pleeeease?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

Wf+6 290122

>>290110
She nods, knowingly. "Yah will need dat good mood. I wish ta teach yah a very essential spell for our kind, but first yah need context. Yah need ta talk ta Instructor Thatch. He is very difficult, and harsh, but he is a master, and a lost treasure ta our crew."

>>290112
He nods, then whispers something to the guard, who summons a second and dispatches him. "Of course, I need to have the claims verified. I am sure you know many rogues come through here hoping to bluff with a silver tongue."

>>290117
They shrug. "She probably went back to that triage center, or sought out her nurse friend. The one who were sharing bedroom eyes with."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290126

>>290122
"Uhh! Yeah! Absolutely!"
Grin wide and stand on my hooves, spreading my wings.
"I'll get on his bright side too!"

Sándor [Knight] 290127

>>290122
"To be honest, I can only confirm one."

Chip(DD knight) 290129

>>290122
My face brightens up, I might see those two plus met that lady boy. Good vibes.
But first see if there is deciet present in his voice.
'1d10'

"Thank you, I will check the triage center right now."
Then seek for the triage center or for that pony boy.
'r2 1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6 / Roll #2 3 = 3

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290130

>>290120
>>290122
I sigh.
"…Can I at least hear what miss Cauterized has to say?"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290131

>>290120
"Summer. No. When we get home…"
I move closer and whisper
"When we get back home, I promise I'll make up for this. All of this. Okay? We'll fix my body. We'll rebuild our lives. We'll start anew."

>>290130
"Yes, but we're not going to Humble!"

Wf+6 290134

>>290127
"In the mean time, come inside. We can share the fruit basket. It's not poisoned, right?"

>>290126
You think you make out a grumble of, "He doesn't 'ave a good side."

"His brain is in da left jar."

>>290129
Zealots know no lies. They are a brutal, but honest people.

You find the triage center completely abandoned. Looks like everyone has left. It's kind of ransacked, anyway.

Sándor [Knight] 290138

>>290134
"No. It was from that fool."
Take one fruit.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290139

>>290134
"Left jar. Got it. Anything I should know?"

Wf+6 290143

>>290138
He welcomes you into the parlor while you wait. You share the apples. They're pretty good, and definitely not poisoned.

>>290139
"Don't get upset when he calls yah incompetent."

Chip(DD knight) 290144

>>290134
"What the hell?" I look at the place.
Ask some of the locals for information about what happened.

'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290146

>>290131
"Okay…"
I turn back to Cauterized Cut.
"Um… miss Cauterized Cut? What were you going to tell me?"

Sándor [Knight] 290147

>>290143
"So anything else you needed me for?"

290148

>>290143
"Insults are words. They bounce off."
Move towards the left jar, take 8 minutes and use commune.

Roll #0 5 + 4 = 9

Wf+6 290166

>>290144
They locals admit to you that the Order tore through looking for Summer originally, but left when they found her. Everyone was too afraid to come back for the day. You also hear rumors that Summer the sanctuary on her own, and headed toward the lower slums bar, avoiding the alternate route through the upper slums.

>>290147
He shakes his head. "Verifications take time. I'm sure in the next couple of minutes he will be back."

>>290146
She takes you aside where Spring can't hear, and whispers,

"I can't exactly help you myself, but I know someone who can. If you went and spoke with him, I'm sure he'd get you a passport out of the city."

>>290148
Immediately your consciousness is assaulted by a barrage of words.

"And now what? Another incessant whelp wakens me from my slumber yet again. I was under the impression that when I died for the last time, I'd actually get some peace. Tell me, have you even been taught the Living Rites yet? And don't make any assumptions about this, I've dealt with idiots before, trying to show off, and casting a similar-sounding spell. Tell, do not demonstrate."

Sándor [Knight] 290168

>>290166
Take another fruit.
"At least you are not as annoying as him. Couldn't shut his fucking mouth for the life of him."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290170

>>290166
"Really? Who?! That's great!"
I noticeably perk up.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290171

>>290166
"The Living what?"
Give a confoused face.

Wf+6 290178

>>290170
"I was actually in the Lower Class District as a volunteer. I'm actually from a rich family, and I know the Lord-Mayor. He's a very nice pony, and he would be happy to help someone in need, I think."

>>290168
He shrugs.

Finally, a guard returns and nods at the Bishop. "Ah, good. It would seem your words were true. Well done."

>>290171
His contempt is palpable. "Where do they find you mindless acolytes? They send you to ME before you have even mastered the third most basic spell for communicating with the Immortal Plane? The Living Rites are an enhanced form of the Last Rites, invented — I hope you're taking note, you WILL be tested later — by Baleful Bray at the third necrotic council in the Enlightened Period. Without the Living Rites, you can't learn anything from me. Do not waken me until you've learned them."

Chip(DD knight) 290179

>>290166
I head for the sanctuary? I am confused.

I head to where the rumors told me and ask for the whereabouts of the miracle filly.

Lets not hope that there are bounty hunters here.

'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Felfire [Necromancer] 290181

>>290178
"I knew you were not good enough to teach me anyway!"

Sándor [Knight] 290182

>>290178
"I guess this is the part where you pay me?"

Wf+6 290183

>>290179
You follow up on those rumors that take you to the bar where you bedded Nurturing Heart, but see it swarming with ponies in military getups. You think it wouldn't be wise to go inside there. Fortunately, you manage to blend in with the crowd and keep moving. Where could she have gone from here? People would have seen her if she doubled back or was captured by the military… that just leaves the Middle Class District, which you came from, and the Mercantile District…

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290184

>>290178
I grab her into another hug.
"That's great! Can I tell my mo- sister?"

Chip(DD knight) 290185

>>290183
I stood in the middle of the street and put a paw on my chin.
"hmmmm…. " my eyes crisscross.

1.middle class district
2.mercantile district

'1d2'

Roll #1 1 = 1

Wf+6 290186

>>290181
You find yourself shouting at nothing, and realize you've stopped subvocalizing. Did he cut off the communion from the other side? Is that even possible?

>>290184
"She seems a little skiddish. I just don't want her to get scared if we talk about the Lord-Mayor. She seems to not like most ponies in this city."

>>290182
He nods. "Yes, your tithe for this week has been considered paid in full. Your credit is good here. Thank you for your time, you may leave."

Chip(DD knight) 290190

>>290185
Middle class district it is.
I head there with my head high up in the air. I then ask the locals and look around for the miracle filly and her mother.

Lets not hope there would be bounty hunters here, I gulp.

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Felfire [Necromancer] 290192

>>290186
But I was not shouting, I was jokingly trying to hit his pride!
"So Terre, what didn't you tell me here?"

Sándor [Knight] 290198

>>290186
I snarl.
"…That's it?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290199

>>290186
"Oh… you're probably right."
I release her from the hug and chuckle.
"So… can we go? I wanna get this all started!"

Wf+6 290204

>>290190
While you don't run into any bounty hunters, you don't detect any trace of the two, either. The guards are reasonably accommodating, but they have no information for you. None of them have seen her."

>>290192
"Do yah imagine it would be easier ta learn from a voice in ya head? Easier than seeing it for yaself in person? Probably, having had yah first discussion with Thatch, da answer is no. I can teach yah to project into the memories of the dead, by shifting yah position on da immortal plane. Dis causes some risk ta yah, because yah are not an ethereal observer like in the Last Rites ritual. Yah are planted into da world of da memory, as though yah were there. Yah can be killed. Yah can also use the chance to learn, and even interact with projections of da past. Cast on normal ponies, it will invariably send yah ta their death memory, but on a fellow necromancer, they may invite yah as a guest into a more suitable memory for your benefit. I want yah ta experience life at da Black Cloister, da ancient necromancy monastery dat Thatch taught at."

>>290199
She nods. "Once your sister has picked out her toy, of course!"

>>290198
He smirks. "What did you want more than to serve Celestia's will? It is better this way."

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290207

>>290204
This mare… This darn mare…
"I don't want a toy! Summer can have another!"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290208

>>290204
"Wait wait wait.
And if I experience the death memory of a normal pony, then I will die too? Who devised this deathtrap?"

Chip(DD knight) 290210

>>290204
I order a glass of whatever refreshment is available in the area and sit on whatever is sittable. This is taxing I tell you.

I then drink the refreshment and try to look again. If not found then I might head for the mercantile district after.

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Sándor [Knight] 290211

>>290204
"How about you pay you the amount of the tithe and I'll come back to pay it back. Can't show up home empty hooved after a long day's work."

Wf+6 290216

>>290208
She shakes her head. "If da pony dies, da memory ends, yah are fine. You simply need not be killed yaself inside da memory. As for who made it… Thatch probably knows."

>>290210
Your drink sparks no inspiration. Not a single clue since you got here!

>>290207
"Suit yourself. But I saw a very huggable teddy ursa for a filly your age when I walked in…"

>>290211
He considers it. "So be it."

He pushes a paltry fifteen bits across the table to you. You have thirty now, aside from all those you left at the Humble house.

Chip(DD knight) 290220

Head down to the mercantile district then, I might sniff up their trail.

Hoping there will be no hunters here I gulp.

'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Felfire [Necromancer] 290221

>>290216
"Damn. I could think of a few fun uses for it already… Can I build a memory and then throw someone in it?
That looks useful!"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290225

>>290216
"Aww… is there really nothing you want Spring? What about that teddy ursa? It's so soft!"

Sándor [Knight] 290226

>>290216
Take the money and leave.
To…
Uh.
Anything interesting going on?
Or at least somepony I know in city?
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290227

>>290216
It's even worse because she's a nurse! A nurse! Talking to a doctor like this! Oh the ponity!
"That's only going to slow me down!"

>>290225
"We can have all the teddy ursas when we get home…"

Wf+6 290234

>>290220
Your luck holds! You ask around a little bit, and a rich looking couple says that think they saw a lot of fillies heading into the toy shop today, and it's worth a look.

>>290227
Your assessment is reasonable. At your current size, it is literally big enough to be used as a big, cushy bed.

"I'll carry it for you, sweetie."

>>290226
You can't find a damn thing worth your time in the town except the casinos, and you don't think it would be wise to show your face around there for a while. There is that poker game, or the hunter for those unicorns, though.

>>290221
She nods slowly. "With practice, building a memory is possible, but ta shift someone else's immortal form inta it without their intent? It would be hard… Maybe if ya combined it with a higher class spell, like a soul transfer…"

Wf+6 290235

>>290234
>poker game

I meant high stakes candyland.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290236

>>290227
"Okay… I guess she's just having a temper tantrum, miss Cauterized Cut."
I giggle.
>>290234
"See? You can get a toy too!"

Sándor [Knight] 290237

>>290234
Which unicors again? The prisoners?

Wf+6 290238

Felfire [Necromancer] 290239

>>290234
Squee.
"I so so so much like this! Let's do it! Teach me!"

Spring Water [Charlatan] 290240

>>290234
"Oh fine, get the darn bear and let's go alread!"

Chip(DD knight) 290241

>>290234
"Oh! I thank you Ma'm. That is great help." I bow down to the couple and head for the toy shop.

Now lets be careful and inspect every corner for the two.

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Sándor [Knight] 290242

>>290238
Hmmm.
Start walking around town and keep an eye open then for them.
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Wf+6 290252

>>290240
>>290241
Your luck is incredible. Just as you relent and the nurse happily levitates the teddy ursa for you, it gets in the way of Chip and blocks his view, preventing him from noticing you, inches away.

>>290242
Your intuition is telling you "toy shop". Maybe you just know the little one too well.

>>290239
"Yah already know da Last Rites, which makes it easier. Dis is just a modified form. I will hold yah, and guide yah through yah first cast. Use it on Thatch again, and remembah, you can only use this once a day."

She positions herself behind you and feels about your side for a while, as if looking for pressure points, and eventually settles for resting her hoof on your wing, at the joint with your torso.

[b]Guided by her magic, you feel as though you don't even need to focus. This roll is automatic.[/s]

When you open your eyes next, you are no longer in Terrebonne's chamber. You're sitting at the back of a large teaching theater, empty, save for a stallion at the bottom, near a chalkboard covered in symbols and notes.

Wf+6 290254

>>290252
>[b][/s]
WHAT A DISASTER

Sándor [Knight] 290256

>>290252
Head for the toy shop then.
Let's wait by the enterance, maybe I'll be able to catch a stray little bird who tries to get in and buy something.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290259

>>290252
Well that was something.
Trot towards the stallion.
"Excusme me, where are we?"

Chip(DD knight) 290260

>>290252
Oh a bear, Oh a nurse!
Is she cute?

'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Wf+6 290273

>>290260
She's pretty cute. You almost think she's not quite as pretty a mare as that stallion, but he was a pretty unique case. Then again, you may have post-coitus bias.

>>290259
He turns and gives you the most condescending look. "Where do you think we are, you numbskull? This is my classroom in the Black Cloister. You may as well wander about now so you don't get distracted by a butterfly later. Come back when you're suitably explored out. I don't have time for you to distract yourself mid-lesson. And don't damage the projections."

>>290256
Many fillies walk in and out, but you can tell none are Summer Seas.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290275

>>290252
I levitate the boardgame along side me and give it over to the cashier, happily looking up at CC.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290278

>>290273
"But… What about the lesson? When will it start?"
Inspect myself.
Am I still myself? Still have my wings, my necklace?

Chip(DD knight) 290280

>>290273
Perhaps but I cant let that this nice piece pass by.
"Hello there, are you taking care of these kids?" I stand up and compose myself.

Look at the kids and see if I recognize any of them.

Swag
'1d10'
recognition
'r2 1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10 / Roll #2 4 = 4

Sándor [Knight] 290281

>>290273
Was I clever enough to pocket a fruit before I left the temple so I can eat something while waiting?
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Wf+6 290286

>>290275
You pay for your items and the nurse tries to usher you out.

'1d10'

>>290278
You look exactly like you did before, but you're wearing some sort of robe-uniform. Also you're wearing a dunce cap, which you shake off. Looks like his impressions of you affect your projection on this memory plane.

"If you are ready now, we can begin now. But I don't want you whining about wanting to see the Ideal Servant or Dusking Pool later in the middle of the lesson when I reference them. You may as well go tour the campus now so I don't have to hear it. I'm finishing writing my final lesson plans for the two hundred six thousand five hundred forty third time."

>>290280
You are the swaggiest, but she's a cold fish. Looks like she's too preoccupied for you, though several nearby mares ooh and ahh, crowding around you and asking what it's like to be such a big, strong dog.

Unfortunately, the ladies get in the way and make it hard to identify anyone.

>>290281
Yep.

Roll #1 5 = 5

Wf+6 290288

>>290286
The nurse gets to the door with the two of you before she's held up by traffic coming in and out of the store, but soon enough, you exit.

Sandor: DC5 to recognize.

Sándor [Knight] 290291

>>290288
>>290286
Eat a fruit.
Do I see them?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Felfire [Necromancer] 290293

>>290286
Oh god this pony is a maniac.
"S…ure! I'll do a quick sweep!"
Leave this room and take sight of the place.
What's good around here?
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Chip(DD knight) 290295

>>290286
Haha! All these mares is getting my attention!! Will I let myself get distracted and forget the two or let myself be overwhelmed by my swagness?

1.swag
2.swag
3.swag
4.swag
5.mission.
6 mision

'1d6'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Chip(DD knight) 290297

>>290295
Haha entertain the mares, then pick one or two of them and engage in kissu kissu.

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Wf+6 290300

>>290291
You totally recognize Summer Seas. You're a little confused about the filly with her, though: she looks like Spring Water but smaller and without the cutie mark. Maybe a long lost sister.

>>290297
The kiss… is pretty awkward. You're losing them Chip, you're losing them!

Spring, make an opposed roll to be 2discreet4him. DC8 passes.

290302

>>290300
Forgot Groves left, so here's the roll.

Roll #0 3 = 3

Felfire [Necromancer] 290303

Chip(DD knight) 290305

>>290300
kissu KISSU!!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Sándor [Knight] 290308

>>290300
"There you are, little dove. You need to come with me."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290309

>>290300
"So where to now?"

Sándor [Knight] 290311

>>290309
"To the ship."

Step next to her from next to the door.

Wf+6 290313

>>290293
You find yourself in a stone hallway, and there are ponies in robes like yours all up and down it. They're chatting passively, but you feel as though they're really there. As a test, you walk toward one coming down the hall, and he adjusts course to walk around you.

You wander down the hallway a bit and come upon a large, circular room with a hulking, kneeling pony in the middle. The other students are walking by in passing, offering up energy to it as they go, while others are actively pulling meat and muscle out of buckets and applying it to the beast with some necromantic magic.

>>290305
At least you got one. She's not very attractive, but at least you got one.

Her husband doesn't seem very pleased, though.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290316

>>290308
>>290311
"Huh?- O- Oh hi mister Sander! W- What are you doing here?"

Wf+6 290317

>>290311
"Is this your friend, honey?"

She leans in to you, "We need to talk to the Lord-Mayor to get her a passport. Mind waiting a bit? It won't take long."

Chip(DD knight) 290318

>>290313
Oh goddamnit, make a run for it.
After gaining some breath, return to the toy store and ask the nurse if she saw a filly named Summer seas. Give her description of what she looks like.

'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Felfire [Necromancer] 290320

>>290313
Is there somepony that doesn't seem to busy? Or a plate explaining what's happening here?
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sándor [Knight] 290321

>>290316
"Looking for stray little birdies. They miss you on the ship from what I heard."

>>290317
"You could say that."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290324

>>290317
"U- Um… He's nice…"
I scoot a bit closer to her.
"You're going somewhere? How long are you gonna be gone?"
>>290321
"They do?…"

Wf+6 290325

>>290318
That nurse is totally busy talking to Sandor. Is he poaching your job?

>>290320
You decide "to hell with formalities", and flat out ask someone standing by what's going on.

They explain that the beast is known as The Ideal Servant. It's a composite effort made by the entire student body each year. A strong class creates a powerful flesh golem, whereas a weak class has theirs fall apart.

It would seem that everyone here is a necromancer. You are finally in a necromancer-only society

Wf+6 290329

>>290324
I meant she was whispering to him, not you.

Basically she wants to get your passport for you before you go back to the ship.

Chip(DD knight) 290330

>>290325
>Sandor.

>>290321
"Hey there chap!" I waved my paw.

Also look around, who is he talking too?

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290332

>>290329
Oh. Gotcha.

290334

>>290325
I… I must pay respect!
Use some of my necromantic energy on it! Make a strong golem!

Roll #0 5 = 5

Sándor [Knight] 290335

>>290324
"Yes. So it would be for your best interest if you followed me."

>>290317
"What sort of passport?"

>>290330
"Hey there."

Wf+6 290339

>>290335
"She wants a passport to leave the city."

>>290334
You manage to get a measly stream out. They make it look so easy!

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290340

>>290335
"Um… d- do I have to follow you now?"

Sándor [Knight] 290341

>>290339
"Sure. Let's talk that over with the captain first."

>>290340
"Only if you want to stay on our good side. I can tell you what happens if you get on our bad side if you are interested."

290342

>>290339
Wish I could build this on the Pillanger's… Will have to ask Abilio.
Imagine the sex with i- No, don't imagine it. Damn that's a distracting thought.
So, to hell with formalities again, ask sompony about cool places here.

Roll #0 1 = 1

Chip(DD knight) 290343

>>290335
"Whatcha doing here bud. I thought you are with your gal."

>>290339
Do I saw summer?

Sándor [Knight] 290345

>>290343
"Lady Alys has some matters to attend to. Can't be bothered."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290346

>>290341
"Okay okay…"
I slowly and apprehensively separate myself from Cauterized.

Sándor [Knight] 290348

>>290346
"Good. I didn't want to scare you."

Chip(DD knight) 290349

>>290345
"I see I see. Mind if I tag along?"
I then whisper.
"Some men are jealous of my skills on swooning mares so I need some pass."

Wf+6 290352

>>290342
Getting distracted by the thought of having sex with this bloated blob of muscle and bone, your hoof slowly moves to your region. You very nearly start to exercise it, but then realize ponies are staring. Right. Not ethereal. They can see you.

>>290349
You know it's Summer. Sandor made that clear. Spring is there, too, in filly form. Not sure if I should make him roll stealth…

Sándor [Knight] 290353

>>290349
"Feel free, my friend. I was going to head back to the ship soon anyway."

290358

>>290352
I should probably move somewhere else.
Like the placesthat mad professor told me about.
The Dusking Pool! Find it!

Roll #0 6 = 6

Chip(DD knight) 290363

>>290353
"Nice, thanks pal."

>>290352
time for creepy
….
There she is…. my price, and is that her mother? Oh dear…
I breath in heavily and exhale.

>>290346
"Hey there… I've been finding you." I smile.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290366

>>290363
"Um… h- hi mister Chip. Are you going to take me back too?…"

Wf+6 290367

>>290358
Out in the courtyard, you see a huge pool that is really more of a lake than a pool. It's covered in black liquid. You notice a plaque near by that reads:

"The Dusking Pool. Last resting place of the Ichor of Necromancers, all graduates contribute their Ichor to this pool."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290371

>>290367
"So… Much… Knoledge… Even the most famous necromancers contribute?"

Sándor [Knight] 290373

>>290366
"Looks like he'll stick around, yes. Now are you ready to get back or do you want to waste more time?"

Chip(DD knight) 290374

>>290366
I look at Sandor, damn.
"Me and Sandor will take you back."
I then chuckle.
"You… you ohohoho. You have no idea how much trouble I get into finding you little pipsquick." I pat her head.

Wf+6 290377

>>290371
You talk to no one and get a reply from no one. You consider trying to commune with the Ichor, then realize it's a projected memory of Ichor. Hm.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290378

>>290377
More questions for Terre once I'm out.
I guess I've seen enough.
Let's go back to class and see if there's something I can learn here.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290380

>>290374
"I- I'm not in trouble too… am I?"

Wf+6 290382

>>290378
You sit through a boring lecture filled with facts and figures. You almost think the whole thing was a waste of time, until he performs a demonstration at the end.

Dragging three corpses into the room, he spaces them evenly, then gestures at only the first. It explodes, and the second body, caught in the blast, also explodes, then triggering the third.

"Thusly, that is called a Chain Corpse Explosion. Any questions?"

Roll for lesson comprehension.

290383

>>290382
Well I know 'bout Corpse Explosion! That should help!

Roll #0 10 = 10

Sándor [Knight] 290386

>>290380
"You will be if you keep stalling."

Chip(DD knight) 290388

>>290366
"Oh no no. A little filly needs not worry about trouble, let the adults do that for you."
I then stand up.
"Its time for you to head back, I'll escort you to safety." I give Summer a reasurring smile.

>>290386
"Lets head back then the four of us."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290389

>>290386
My eyes shrink in fear.
"I- I'm going! Please…"
I whimper and start heading off for the ship.

Wf+6 290390

>>290383
You feel like the extension of the original spell right away. Still, committing it to memory will be a fatiguing effort. Is this the new spell you want to learn today?

Sándor [Knight] 290391

>>290389
"Don't worry. See, it's not that hard."
Accompany her towards the ship.
"What were you doing walking around without supervision anyway?"

Chip(DD knight) 290393

>>290389
If groves is here, this will take a bit longer, but oh well.

Escort the filly and her mother back to the ship.
Also keep an eye on the two.

… does Spring look better in her new form?

'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Felfire [Necromancer] 290394

>>290390
What else could I learn here otherwise?
But yeah, I do want to learn this one. I always loved corpse explosion!

Wf+6 290397

>>290391
Given that you can't leave via the gates without a passport, you take her toward Humble's house instead.

As you reach the entrance to the district, four ponies in Order uniforms stop you. "Summer, do you want to go with this stallion, or is he forcing you?"

>>290393
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. That said, you hope Abilio forgets to break the hex or something.

>>290394
Nothing here. Cobbler could have taught you Deadeye, or Doc Peg could have taught you Touch of Decay.

Felfire [Necromancer] 290399

>>290397
I don't want to waste that 10, you know.

Sándor [Knight] 290401

>>290397
"I can talk too. If you have questions, direct them to me."

Chip(DD knight) 290402

>>290397
I keep quiet, I just hope that all my so called friendliness to Summer comes to fruition.

Keep my eyes on Spring, I just hope they let her keep that way.

Wf+6 290404

>>290399
You pick up fast. Before you know it, you've been banished from the memory with a stack of homework you're going to ignore. That wasn't so bad!

You find yourself waking in your bed with Terrebonne gazing down at you pensively from her own.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290405

>>290391
"I- I was just-"
>>290397
I nervously look between the ponies of the Order and Sandor.
"U- U- Um, h- he…"

Felfire [Necromancer] 290406

>>290404
"That. Was. Amazing! They even explained my favorite spell, corpse explosion! You know that with a single charge you can blow almost every body around? IT'S BEAUTIFUL!"

Chip(DD knight) 290407

>>290405
"Summer, we are not angry at you." I smiled at her.

'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290412

>>290407
"Y- You're not?…"
I calm down a bit more.
"But mister Sander sounded mean…"

Sándor [Knight] 290416

>>290412
"I didn't mean to. Or at least not towards you, little dove. I just had to deal with annoying ponies today, and hoped you wouldn't be annoying. You don't want to be annoying, do you?"

Wf+6 290422

>>290406
Terrebonne nods. "Yah got it all in one lesson? He can be arcane. His talent is corpse explosion, though, so he would know. Still speaks to yah talent of course."

Chip(DD knight) 290423

>>290412
"No he's not, we are just worried about you." I smiled back and pat her.

"We are friends right and friends care about each other."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290425

>>290416
"N- No…"
I look back to the guards.
"Um.. they're not forcing me, mister Order Guards."

Felfire [Necromancer] 290426

>>290422
"Maybe it's just because I love that spell so much! But it was a lot to get in one go, I'll give him that.
It's all stuff I never heard about, incredible!"
Fall on my bed and stare with a gleedul smile at the ceiling.
"This boat is the best thing that ever happened to me…"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290429

>>290423
"Y- You're really my friend, mister Chip?"

Chip(DD knight) 290431

>>290429
….
Am I?

"Yes I am." I smiled back.

Sándor [Knight] 290432

>>290425
"See, I knew we could be on good terms."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290436

>>290431
I softly smile back at him.
>>290432
"Um… can we visit miss Humble before we have to go?"

Chip(DD knight) 290439

>>290436
Ms. Humble's I have'nt seen her back then.

>>290432
"We could go for a small visit."

Sándor [Knight] 290442

>>290436
"Of course."

Wf+6 290790

With help from Sandor, a competent minion, Chip was able to find the two unicorns. Spring Water is still in filly form.

Now they head to Humble's house to reconvene with the pirates. Given that no one has told CC that the pirates are dangerous, she's obliviously tagging along, carrying your gravity game and teddy ursa.

Chip(knight DD) 290793

>>290790
"Mrs. Humble, long time no see." I smiled with glee.

Wf+6 290794

>>290790
The Order ponies also disperse now that Summer has given the pirates the okay.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290796

>>290790
I gradually start to become less frighten as we walk.
"Oh yeah, mister Chip! I got my cutiemark!"
I point to it.

Chip(knight DD) 290797

>>290796
I look at it, I then put my paw in fake surprise to cover my blush.

"My my. What does it mean?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290799

>>290797
"I dunno… I think it means I'm good at helping ponies? What about you mister Chip, what's your special talent?"

Chip(knight DD) 290802

>>290799
"Well, I am good at handling myself in a fight like Sandor, but no… thats not my talent." I think for a moment.

"Perhaps ships."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290803

>>290802
"Ships? That's a silly special talent."
I look around, trying to find Humble's house. '1d10'
"Do you know how much longer it'll be until we get to miss Humble's house mister Chip?"

Roll #1 1 = 1

Chip(knight DD) 290804

>>290803
"Hey, ships are cool you know. I repair them a lot." I put on a pout, folding my arms in retort.

Wf+6 290805

>>290803
You lose track of where you are in the city. Ah, well, knowing where you are isn't really important when you're with a responsible adult like Chip! I'm sure he'd make sure no creepy strangers ever took advantage of you or your filly mother.

You arrive at Humble's abode and when you open the door, Abilio seems pleased to see you. He remarks, "You know for a minute there, I thought you might go off and start bedding nurses again instead of bringing back those Unicorns. Looks like you were willing to compromise and brought the nurse here."

CC blushes. "I'm not here to sleep with this dog! I'm just looking after these fillies. I bought them some toys."

Chip(knight DD) 290806

>>290805
"I am sorry for my behavior. As promised here they are." I gesture to Abilio, showing the summer and spring.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290807

>>290805
I tilt my head at Abilio.
"Bedding? What's that?"

Chip(knight DD) 290808

>>290807
"Ah that is where a couple make out." I said carelessly.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290809

>>290808
"Make out?"
I tilt my head at him as well and then look inside. What's going on in there?

Wf+6 290810

>>290809
Ruxiang and Lieutenant Sunnyskies are still playing high stakes Candyland. Ruxiang gives a devilish grin when he draws Lord Licorice, pulling his balisong out of a large gumdrop and doing a few aerials in anticipation.

"Game almost over."

Chip(knight DD) 290811

>>290809
Welp!!
"Ahh err… they… make out of some problems. Solve them actually."
Seeing and hearing the noise my curiosity is touched.
"Whats going inside?" I take a peek.

Chip(knight DD) 290812

>>290810
I knocked once.
"Looks like we've been busy playing with each other it seems." I smile at those on the table.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290813

>>290811
"Oh! That makes se-"
>>290810
My eyes widen as I see them playing the game.
I dash over there and kneel down to get a better look at the game.
"Is that Candyland?!"

Wf+6 290814

>>290812
The Lieutenant gives you a grave look. "This is WAR soldier! Idle minds are Celestia's playthings. I've got to edge out this Oriental!"

>>290813
Ruxiang nods. "Classic set. Real candy. Careful, sticky board."

He flicks his hand knife through one of the "trees" in the candy cane forest at the base, then pulls it free and hands it to her.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290815

>>290814
I take the tree with my magic and nibble on it. How's it taste? '1d10'
"Can I join? Pleeeease? Maybe next game?"

Roll #1 3 = 3

Chip(knight DD) 290816

>>290814
Who's CC?

This is an odd game, damn the smell of sugar is strong.
"I will watch, perhaps Summer likes to play."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290817

>>290816
Cauterized Cut. The nurse who Summer and Spring were with.

Chip(knight DD) 290818

Wf+6 290819

>>290815
It's definitely sweet, but it's not the best you've had by far. This set might be a little bit old…

>>290816
Cauterized Cut, the female nurse that is with the two fillies. She obliviously followed you and no one stopped her.

>>290815
Ruxiang nods. "Next game. This game is high stakes. Buy in 2.3 thousand bits. We play free next round."

Chip(knight DD) 290820

>>290819
I return to Abilio after watching the game for a minute or two.
"So hows shakin?"

Wf+6 290822

>>290820
He considers the statement. "All is well now that Summer Seas is back. Terrebonne's apprentice is back on the ship, still finishing some lesson. Alys is in the bedroom, taking a nap. I'm a little surprised the mother didn't disappear. Maybe it wasn't worth it to have to grow up again. I may as well break the hex on her as well, don't you think?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290824

>>290819
My eyes widen in shock at the figure.
"Two thousand three hundred bits?! That's a lot of money!…
…can I try playing for money next round?"

Chip(knight DD) 290825

>>290822
I look at him slightly confused.
"I assume that new apprentice is that new guy who helped me back in the bar when me and Face are attacked. Tell him or her my thanks."

"Maybe it wasn't worth it to have to grow up again? What do you mean by that?" my eyes widen.

Wf+6 290827

>>290824
They both laugh a little bit. "Do you have any money at all, filly?"

>>290825
He raises a brow. "Weren't you at the meeting last night? We planned to sneak into the city by disguising an infiltration team as orphans. This involved me casting an age spell on everyone involved. I've already broken the hex on everyone but Spring Water, as she ran off before. So it's not just an illusion, you see: left untreated she would just grow up again normally."

He pauses. "But yes, that sounds right. Felfire is a female pegasus. Seems reasonable. Has a strange fondness for the undead in the bedroom sort of way. I suppose we all have our vices. Speaking of which, I have a new letter for you to take when we get back on the ships."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290831

>>290827
"…no.
M- Maybe I can use something else! Like… chores? Do you need any healing? My momma tells me I give good massages too!"

Chip(knight DD) 290832

>>290827
"Oh I see, where should I take this letter? The same old?" I sit on a chair.

"Hmmm… I am… hesitant on the mother if you ask me. I mean she has bold ideas, well that is expected after all she is a captive." I add as a sidenote.
"Will that make her incurable if we let the spell run its course?" I ask in curiosity.

Wf+6 290835

>>290832
He nods. "Yes to the destination. I think you don't have much of a head for magic, though. The spell has already run its course. She's physically a filly, cutie mark gone and all. I'm not so much breaking an enchantment as I am reversing the effects. Honestly, I was worried at first, given that it is a very difficult school of magic, but now I feel quite confident with the spells. I should have known my talent would carry over."

Chip(knight DD) 290837

>>290835
"I see, well I dont know much about magic but if you are going to ask me, it will be better to let the mother stay as a filly since it will make handling her much easier. Well unless some of the higher ups disagree's with me." I take a sip of water before standing up.

I then close my eyes and take in mind Spring and Summer together. I then take a deep breath and open my eyes.
"I will take the letter as we get to the ship, just… consider my advice."

Wf+6 290838

>>290837
Abilio shrugs. "I have no preference either way. Now that I've mastered the spell, applying it is trivial. I don't know that the Commodore has a preference either.. In truth, I've found Spring Water to be a bit of trouble for us. Summer seems easy to control and work with… between you and I, I wish she had just run away. Maybe I should ask Keymaster to sleep in the brig with them so I know they're not plotting alone at night."

>>290831
Ruxiang laughs. "If I want a massage, I think I will get one with a happy ending from the District. How about this, we play with money no one will miss. You win? Fifty bits. Pocket change. You lose, we come up with something. You sing or something. Maybe go help Felfire with gravedig."

Wf+6 290839

>>290838
I wish she (Spring Water) had just run away

Clarification in case that wasn't obvious.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290840

>>290838
My eyes light up.
"Really? That's perfect! Thank you!"
I give him a quick hug then return back to my seat, eagerly awaiting to play.

Wf+6 290843

>>290840
Before long, Ruxiang has won. Sunnyskies is fuming. "You only won because of the Queen Frostine card! It was unfair. I'll get you next time you Yellow Threat!"

He signs a card and hands it to Ruxiang. You can only imagine that it's easier to exchange IOUs when dealing with thousands of bits.

Pretty soon you're at the beginning of the board, outside the Gingerbread Plum Tree region drawing cards and slowly making your way down the board. You sample candy everywhere you visit.

Roll for luck.

Chip(knight DD) 290844

>>290838
Wow, I was alarmed by his suggestion. Not that I mind but Summer losing her parent just reminds me a bit of old days when I was young. I then compose myself.

"Just on my side, I think it will be best on Summer if she has her mother. Not that I mind Spring gone but I just feel a bit bad for her daughter growing up alone. Even if her mother is a filly at least she will be on her side."

I then look at him.
"If I might ask, I want to volunteer to be the one to guard those two in the brig."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290845

>>290843
I feel lucky! '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Wf+6 290846

>>290845
Sunnyskies luck: '1d10'
Ruxiang luck: 'r2 1d10'

>>290844
"You may feel altruistic now, but how will you sleep with TWO fillies yammering on at night? Plus, you'll probably end up tripping over some chains or a gag or something. You have any idea how many completely unattended restraining devices we have in there? We might still have a rack and a set of stocks, it's been a while since I've visited. Not to mention that it's essentially sound-proof to keep prisoners from yelling for help. How are you going to wake up early enough for raids?"

Roll #1 1 = 1 / Roll #2 3 = 3

Wf+6 290848

>>290846
>1,3
Sunnyskies has awful luck and ends up drawing Plumpy over and over the whole game, never getting past the beginning. Ruxiang puts up a good fight, but then spends a long time held up by the Molasses.

You finish first, and you're pretty stuffed with candy. You think if your mother wasn't so busy not drawing the attention of pirates, she'd probably disapprove. As it is, she's sort of quietly glaring, perched atop her teddy ursa. It's pretty adorable.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290850

>>290848
That does sound awfully adorable.
"I won! Can we go again?"

Wf+6 290851

>>290850
Ruxiang shrugs, but Sunnyskies raises his hoofs in defeat. "I need to play a man's game. I'm taking a nap before the fighting stats. Keep playing if you want." He retires to the couch and pulls his softcap over his eyes.

Ruxiang Luck: '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Chip(knight DD) 290852

>>290846
Racks, restraining devices, sound proof, oh my. The possibilities.
Well unless those are used against me, that will suck.

"I dont know but Summer seems to trust me. She will feel safer, perhaps willing to stay on the ship if I am to guard her unlike the Keymaster. She is afraid of that guys face."

"As fir Spring, she is not a bad healer herself so she is an asset but she is.. difficult to work with.
As we know where Summer stays, Spring will stay. She is essentially a slave to her daughter if you ask me. "

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290853

>>290851
C'mon luck! '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Chip(knight DD) 290854

>>290852
Now my mind raced on how they will call me outside.
"As for calling me outside…. I really have no idea. Perhaps I will check every hour or two?" I shrugged.

Wf+6 290855

>>290853
You're both neck and neck at the end. It all comes down to the last cards! Draw! '1d10'

>>290854
Abilio sighs. "Well, if you really want to, I'm sure Keymaster prefers his bed. You'll have to run it past Landgrave, of course, since this would constitute a transfer onto the Darklantern. I doubt he will care, though. Just have someone come by at reveille to make sure you're up in the morning."

Roll #1 2 = 2

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290856

>>290855
Drawing! '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Chip(knight DD) 290857

>>290855
"I.. well, thank you." I scratch my head in glee.

"Well… the letters?"

Wf+6 290858

>>290856
You both get stuck in the molasses swamp. This is heart-wrenching. The most intense game of Candyland you've ever played. The only way it could be more intense is if you were betting 2.3 thousand bits. '1d10' for more rolls.

>>290857
"Ah, of course." He levitates out a new letter and floats it over to Chip. "I am sure she'll reveal herself soon. She's just so shy. Perhaps my incredible magical power is making her nervous?"

Roll #1 8 = 8

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290859

>>290856
"…Are you sure you shuffled this right?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290860

>>290858
"C'mon…"
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Wf+6 290861

>>290860
He manages to get out of the swamp before you, and narrowly makes it to the end.

He laughs a bit. "Alright. Hope you like ghost stories. You gonna be in one."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290862

>>290861
"Aww drat… w- wait, what are you saying?"

Wf+6 290863

>>290862
"I owe Dolly a favor. Was gonna have to go to the graveyard with new necromancer apprentice to help her talk to local corpses. You can go with her now. Not so bad. Mostly flowers and headstones. Only ghouls you see will be Felfire's. You meet her?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290864

>>290863
"A- A graveyard?…"
I shiver and gulp.
"I think I've seen her once or twice before… d- do I really have to? Is there nothing else?"

Chip(knight DD) 290865

>>290858
"She is, its just that I feel obligated to not divulge her less I by clobbered to death." I said as I get the letters.

"I'll be heading back then." I give a salute.

'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Wf+6 290866

>>290864
He shrugs, then turns around at his table. "Mista Chip. You know anything I can make this filly do for losing to me in Candyland? Got any jobs for her?"

>>290865
Is that a roll to salute?

Chip(knight DD) 290867

>>290866
A roll to find my way back to the ship.

I look at the one who calls me. "Jobs for her?" my eyes wide.

Chip(knight DD) 290870

>>290867
"Perhaps she can accompany me delivering these letters I suppose."

Wf+6 290871

>>290867
>>290870
"She too scared to visit graveyard with Felfire. I guess that work. Not much need for healer for most but you seem like clumsy guy. To be honest, Tartarus probably scarier than graveyard. Hold her tight."

To get back to the ship you have to go through a portal created by Abilio.

Abilio rips open a Tartarian gate for you to return to the ships through, though it necessitates a brief walk through the infernal world of Tartarus.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290873

>>290871
I peek inside the portal.
"M- Maybe I'll just go to the graveyard instead…"

Chip(knight DD) 290874

>>290871
"Just a short job, it will be done in time." I approach the portal.

>>290873
"Its safe to go inside." I approach and kneel beside her

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290877

>>290874
I shake my head.
"Nuh uh. It's scary in there!"

Chip(knight DD) 290878

>>290877
"Look, you can close your eyes. I'll carry you through it. What do you say?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290888

>>290878
"Will it be over quick?…"

Chip(knight DD) 290890

>>290888
"Of course it will. Come come." I began to lift Summer placing my paws on her flank and on her back.

"Trust me in this." I smiled.

Wf+6 290892

>>290888
>>290890
"Once in the portal, it's about a seven meter walk to our destination. Not far. Don't look down."

Chip(knight DD) 290896

>>290892
"Well it will be short, lets go then."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290898

>>290890
"Okay…"
>>290892
>>290896
I clench my eyes shut, waiting for it to be over.

Wf+6 290902

>>290896
>>290898
There's no real ignoring Tartarus. Entering the portal is a blast of heat, and fire crackles all around. The air smells strongly of sulfur.

Abilio leads the way, seemingly walking on nothing but the void itself, to what appears to be an arbitrary point ahead, where he rips open a new portal and enters. You follow him, and before you know it, you're back on solid ground.

Chip(knight DD) 290906

>>290902
I breath the fresh, salty air. Wizards and their spells, well at least we're safe.

>>290898
"Time to open your eyes." I rub her tummy.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290910

>>290902
>>290906
I open my eyes and look around, seeing we're back on the ship, and hop down, shakily standing after that experience.
"W- We're not gonna have to go back through that again… are we?"

Wf+6 290916

>>290910
Abilio considers the statement. "When it is time to return. You are to be on hand when the assault begins. We'll need a talented healer like yourself. Speaking of your talents, I've noticed you've earned your cutie mark. Very good. Perhaps it's time you started formal training in medicine. Doc Peg could use an apprentice in the field of healing, and he's a master."

Chip(knight DD) 290922

>>290910
"Dont worry, I'll be there so dont be scared." I put a reassuring paw on her head.
"Looks like we got a letter to deliver, follow me."

>>290916
"Uuuuh… " I point at the letter.

Wf+6 290925

>>290922
He rolls his eyes. "I didn't mean this instant, you dope. Go deliver the letter, of course."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290926

>>290922
>>290925
"Who are you delivering the letter to?"

Chip(knight DD) 290930

>>290925
"Ya, I'll be heading then." go to where… whats her name again damnit. That blind pony and deliver the letter.
Also look at my back, make sure no one is following me except summer.

'1d10'

>>290926
"Just tag along, it wont be far. Here hold this letter for me." I hand her the letter.

Roll #1 3 = 3

Wf+6 290933

>>290930
You don't detect anything as you cross over to the Darklantern. Passing Landgrave's cabin, you remember you'd have to ask him if you want to finalize your transfer. Finally, you come to a stop at the cabin of the unicorn known as Lucky Stripes, true name Cloudy Stripes.

Chip(knight DD) 290936

>>290933
Knock on her door.
"Uhurrmmm… Delivery."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290939

>>290930
"Okay."
I hold the letter with my magic.
>>290936
…and wait for someone to respond.

Wf+6 290942

>>290936
>>290939
Once again, Cloudy opens the door, face less than an inch away.

"Is that the unicorn from the brig again? What's she doing here?"

Chip(knight DD) 290944

>>290942
"I'm just escorting here thats all." I step back, caught by surprise by her sudden appearance in the dark.

"Your… writer has another letter." I smile.

Wf+6 290947

>>290944
She frowns. "Well, read it, then. Or have her read it."

Chip(knight DD) 290950

>>290947
I look at Summers.
"Want to read it?" I give her a sly smile.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290959

>>290950
>>290947
"Um, okay!"
I open the letter and begin reading it.

Wf+6 290967

>>290959
"Dear Admirer,
How I long to be united with you at last. To know your soft touch and caress your body in kind. For too long we have been separate, sharing letters back and forth. Let us tarry no longer, for life in our line of work is short and so often unsweet. Tonight, as we celebrate certain victory after razing Stonebriar, I invite you to a candlelit dinner in my quarters aboard the Pillager's Fancy. Let me prove the depths of my love to you, and we will spend the rest of our lives together."

Cloudy scrunches and blushes a bit. "A dinner? Tonight? But I'm totally unprepared! I don't have anything to wear, and my mane is a mess… I didn't plan for this! But I can't turn him down after all this time… It's our chance to be together…"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290968

>>290967
"Ooh! Ooh! I can help!"
I jump up and down trying to get her attention.

Wf+6 290969

>>290968
She sighs. "How can you help?"

Chip(knight DD) 290971

>>290967
I shouldnt have her read the letter.

>>290968
Well she's enthusiastic.
"If you will help, I'll try too."

Chip(knight DD) 290974

>>290969
"Well first is that we have eyes so she and I can help with your looks." I fold my arms.

"Hmm.. you're not bad looking if you get yourself together."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290975

>>290969
"Well… maybe I can wash and style your mane for you? Yeah! I can totally do that! You'll be the prettiest mare there ever was!"

Wf+6 290986

>>290974
>>290975
She relaxes a little. "Alright, but my chambers probably aren't the place for it. For one, I don't have any lights in here. It's totally dark. That doesn't bother me, but I'm betting it would give you trouble. I know Doc Peg has a freshwater pump sink in his clinic, or there's clean water in the hold. I think there's soap there, too, but I've never used it. Also, I don't own any clothes."

Her isolation from other ponies in the dark of that room must really be getting to her. You can tell she definitely has a lot of natural looks… which are pretty much the only thing keeping her from looking horrifying. Her mane is a total wreck, she reeks of ink, and her coat is covered in splotches of color from her work.

Chip(knight DD) 290990

>>290986
If Summers is not here, I may have the time cupping a couple of feels on her flank.
"I could help with bringing water to you, the little filly could help with washing and scrubbing you with soap. I mean you have ink all over you."

I then hold her mane and remove some chunks of dried up ink, disintegrating it in the process.
"This mane wont do."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 290992

>>290986
"Yeah! That can definitely work!"
I run out the door and gesture for them to follow me.

Chip(knight DD) 290994

>>290992
"Whoa, wait up." I follow her dragging Lucky along.

Wf+6 290995

>>290992
She trots along behind summer.

>>290990
Giving you a full view of her voluptuous flank. Well, there's something she hasn't ruined by sitting in the dark all day. She twirls her tail about nervously as she heads away with Summer.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291000

>>290995
I try to lead them to the hold, where the soap and clean water is. '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

Chip(knight DD) 291002

>>290995
Albio you lucky guy.

Am I tempted?

1.y
2.n
'1d2'

Roll #1 2 = 2

Chip(knight DD) 291004

>>291002
Better not smack that flank.

>>291000
"Ah, we are here. I'll go and fetch some water."
With that I go and get some extra water for the cleaning to commence.

Wf+6 291006

>>291002
Too old, would not bang.

>>291000
You find the cleaning supplies right away, along with actual shampoo, deodorant, and a makeup kit, complete with mane styling equipment. What luck!

Sándor [Knight] 291010

I guessed I missed stuff to interact with the party.
Again.

Wf+6 291014

>>291010
You're back in Humble's house with filly Spring Water, Ruxiang the Eye, Lieutenant Sunnyskies, Mellow Marsh, and Cauterized Cut.

Abilio took Chip and Summer Seas with him through the portal.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291018

>>291006
"Who even knew they had all this stuff?"
I start rinsing out Luck's mane and coat and get to with! It's just like my old My Little Sheep toys… right? '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

Sándor [Knight] 291020

>>291014
Well, no IC reason to follow them through there.

"Anyone has a drink?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291022

>>291018
And I also jokingly splash Chip with some water in the process.

Wf+6 291024

>>291018
It is surprisingly similar. You're doing a very good job. You really like her mane.

>>291020
The Lieutenant lazily pitches his hip flask at you.

"Careful. That stuff is strong. I asked Doc to make something that would make me see stars in his still, and he damn well delivered. That doctor deserves a medal."

Chip(knight DD) 291027

>>291022
"H.. hey you little…. " splash some water on her and on Lucky in the process.

'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

Sándor [Knight] 291029

>>291024
Take a sip.
Can't be that bad.
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291030

>>291024
Woo!
I try to do something really netr with it, like… curls! Pretty curls!
'1d10'
>>291027
"Heeey!"
Counterattack! 'r2 1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2 / Roll #2 8 = 8

Wf+6 291032

>>291029
You were wise to take just a sip. The effects hit you almost instantly: your vision darkens and begins to sway a little. Is this stuff enchanted?

>>291027
You splash soapy water in Cloudy's eyes, but she doesn't seem to notice.

>>291030
On the other hand, you get so worked up with defending her honor in your splash battle that you end up turning her mane into a rat's nest.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291033

>>291032
Uh
Fixitfixitfixit! '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

Chip(knight DD) 291034

>>291030
>8
"Arrgghh my eyes!"
Clean my eyes with clean water.

'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

Sándor [Knight] 291035

>>291032
"Whoa… I prefer stuff I can enjoy without getting shitfaced."
Give it back.

Wf+6 291037

>>291034
You think you got most of it out, but it still stings.

>>291033
You think you mitigated the damage, at least. Maybe it looks a little better. All in all, you decide to focus on washing it first.

>>291035
He gives you a slight scowl. "Enjoying your alcohol is un-Equestrian."

Chip(knight DD) 291040

>>291037
Clean my eyes further.

>>291033
"How are we doing? Is she clean?" I ask

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291043

>>291037
Yeah… maybe that's the best idea.
I continue washing her mane and coat. How clean is she now? '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

Sándor [Knight] 291046

>>291037
"Enjoy wine like water. Or replace water with wine entirely. Is that Equestrian enough?"

Wf+6 291049

>>291040
>>291043
You get her totally clean as she relaxes into the water. You even scrub down to her region. She hesitates at first, but concludes a filly isn't going to try anything, nor probably even understands the significance. Obviously Chip wouldn't be permitted to help out there.

Now you just need to get her dried off, brushed, do her hair, hooves, and makeup. Getting ready for a date is hard work!

>>291046
"Drunk on the battlefield ain't no way to be, son. Gotta take it in your private hours. Keep that canteen filled with refreshing hydration libation!"

Sándor [Knight] 291053

>>291049
"At least you have no regrets or remorse if you are drunk. A rolling head is a rolling head even if that head is going to make a widow or an orphan."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291054

>>291049
Uh…
I do all that! Or at least try to.
'5d10'

Roll #1 7, 7, 7, 6, 10 = 37

Chip(knight DD) 291055

>>291049
I get the supplies and be ready to hand Summers whatever she needs to get this mare.

Wf+6 291067

>>291054
>>291055
You both set to work, and in no time, it's done. You did a particularly good job on the makeup. Cloudy looks like an entirely different mare, she's absolutely gorgeous.

"Now we just need to find a dress in this mess. I'm sure we've looted a few at some point."

>>291053
"The killing is the best part! Why do you want to miss out an those memories of glory?"

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291070

>>291067
"But aren't those stolen dresses?…"

Wf+6 291076

>>291070
She cocks her head. "Yeah, why?"

Chip(knight DD) 291078

>>291067
"Where do you keep them?"

>>291070
"Well they kinda are, but it will be better to use those than let it rot in its boxes.

Sándor [Knight] 291082

>>291067
"Killing is just killing. There's nothing glorious about it after a while."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291084

>>291076
"Stealing's bad!"

Chip(knight DD) 291090

>>291084
"Hmmm… perhaps we can get a dress around here that is not procured through theft."

>>291076
I nudge Lucky's shoulder with my paw.

Wf+6 291093

>>291090
"Hm? For all we know all of the dresses here were bought and paid for. We don't exactly separate out the cargo."

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291098

>>291093
>>291090
"Oh… that's okay then!"
I hop away and try to find any sort of dress container here. Chests? Wardrobes? '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

Sándor [Knight] 291099

Wf+6 291104

>>291082
"So says you. I remember the faces of every pony I've slain in battle. Their last expressions of terror fuel me."

>>291098
You wander about a bit and find a variety of dresses and outfits. They range from noble attire to lingerie to baby sleepers. Now you just need to pick one that's appropriate.

Chip(knight DD) 291106

>>291093
I lean next to her.
"I assume you can handle yourself once you are with Abblio. You should mind what you are saying for some of the individuals here have class of their own." I said with a worried tone.

>>291098
Wow she is free-spirited indeed.
Help her out.

Sándor [Knight] 291108

>>291104
"Maybe you are just a bit more fucked up than the rest of us then."

Chip(knight DD) 291112

>>291104
Wait for Lucky's reply before heading to help Summers pick a dress.

Summer Seas [Cleric] 291114

>>291104
"Um… miss Cloudy Luck? What kinda dress do you want?"

Wf+6 291119

Okay, I definitely have to pause now..

Gnight

Chip(knight DD) 291124

>>291119
when next?
also good night.


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