File: 1378291748206.jpg (130.14 KB, 1191x670, forest.jpg, IO Exif Google TinEye)
>>478617
I could, that's true.
Splitting time, then. I've got a book to sell, and surely I'll be back before I'm needed by the others. Let's look for book merchants who would be interested in transcribed volumes, long forgotten by time. There's a merchant's district around here somewhere, right? '1d10'
Roll #1 6 = 6
I could, that's true.
Splitting time, then. I've got a book to sell, and surely I'll be back before I'm needed by the others. Let's look for book merchants who would be interested in transcribed volumes, long forgotten by time. There's a merchant's district around here somewhere, right? '1d10'
Roll #1 6 = 6
>>478636
He grunts. "Well, get out of my medical theater before I need to sterilize it again."
Rosemary smiles and nods. "Thank you, doctor."
"Yeah, yeah… I didn't ask for a saline drip."
With that, you depart. You spend four hours walking back to Roads. In all, you spent ten hours out.
>>478637
"I'd advise you do. You look tired. Probably going to play it off tough because you don't want to look like you're taking my advice, but really I know exhaustion when I see it."
>>478638
"There has to be a demand for it. Just being old isn't enough."
He grunts. "Well, get out of my medical theater before I need to sterilize it again."
Rosemary smiles and nods. "Thank you, doctor."
"Yeah, yeah… I didn't ask for a saline drip."
With that, you depart. You spend four hours walking back to Roads. In all, you spent ten hours out.
>>478637
"I'd advise you do. You look tired. Probably going to play it off tough because you don't want to look like you're taking my advice, but really I know exhaustion when I see it."
>>478638
"There has to be a demand for it. Just being old isn't enough."
>>478640
"Well, there's always a collector's market out there."
I'll take out the fungal tome and place it on the counter.
"This book is transcribed from a tome just about as old as the Darkest Night. Fairly complete, and very clearly written. The original author is noted here, and I've only made a small transcription disclaimer on the back cover."
"Well, there's always a collector's market out there."
I'll take out the fungal tome and place it on the counter.
"This book is transcribed from a tome just about as old as the Darkest Night. Fairly complete, and very clearly written. The original author is noted here, and I've only made a small transcription disclaimer on the back cover."
>>478645
>>478642
Abilio clarifies for Felfire: "I asked for compensation. This took all day after all. I asked for just one doubloon an hour – not per head, in total."
He then adds, "That's ten."
Doc Peg replies, "I'll pay my own way… so that's two and a half from me."
>>478644
"You've been walking up and down all those tiers, right? I can tell the stairs are taking their toll. Most ponies aren't used to such a vertical city."
>>478648
He scrutinizes it. "The problem is that collectors will want originals – or at least a professional transcription. Is this your first transcription?"
>>478642
Abilio clarifies for Felfire: "I asked for compensation. This took all day after all. I asked for just one doubloon an hour – not per head, in total."
He then adds, "That's ten."
Doc Peg replies, "I'll pay my own way… so that's two and a half from me."
>>478644
"You've been walking up and down all those tiers, right? I can tell the stairs are taking their toll. Most ponies aren't used to such a vertical city."
>>478648
He scrutinizes it. "The problem is that collectors will want originals – or at least a professional transcription. Is this your first transcription?"
>>478659
"I would need an exceptionally good imagination to come up with the facts concerning the Nature's Gift flower, as well as dozens of fungi and other plants in that volume."
I'll scratch the back of my neck a moment.
"And I didn't want to cart around the original because it's rather fragile. And I'm probably overly-suspicious of pickpockets or thieves."
"I would need an exceptionally good imagination to come up with the facts concerning the Nature's Gift flower, as well as dozens of fungi and other plants in that volume."
I'll scratch the back of my neck a moment.
"And I didn't want to cart around the original because it's rather fragile. And I'm probably overly-suspicious of pickpockets or thieves."
>>478660
"You'll wish you had listened when they're aching tomorrow. Those are some steep climbs to fly. Even steeper than the stairs."
>>478661
He nods.
>>478663
She smiles at you.
He sighs. "Well, I had intended for form some lasting ties with the fleet, but seeing you and Emrille react so violently to the suggestion – out of turn I might add, it is against tradition to raise objections during the nomination phase – we've decided to withdraw and follow through with earlier plans to retire from the fleet."
>>478664
"Listen, if you don't mind, I'd like to call in a buddy of mine who knows all about these kinds of ancient books, and he can tell us a little more about it."
"You'll wish you had listened when they're aching tomorrow. Those are some steep climbs to fly. Even steeper than the stairs."
>>478661
He nods.
>>478663
She smiles at you.
He sighs. "Well, I had intended for form some lasting ties with the fleet, but seeing you and Emrille react so violently to the suggestion – out of turn I might add, it is against tradition to raise objections during the nomination phase – we've decided to withdraw and follow through with earlier plans to retire from the fleet."
>>478664
"Listen, if you don't mind, I'd like to call in a buddy of mine who knows all about these kinds of ancient books, and he can tell us a little more about it."
>>478680
He groans. "But I'll need privacy, because otherwise I'm going to be distracted by your beautiful womanhood."
This isn't said seductively or flirtatiously at all. Instead, he sounds annoyed and frustrated, as though he's complaining that the coming rain will force him to paint indoors.
>>478679
You are falling-down drunk. You try to work the handle of the door, but eventually you just kind of collapse up against it.
>>478681
"Oh, no doubt, but it is time for the next great adventure. I will need an heir to pass on the knowledge of the legendary keepers of the gate."
>>478682
Eventually he comes back with another pony, who takes a look at it. "Okay, so there are a few different ways of dating ancient texts. Really, a fungal guide from a few centuries against isn't going to be useful because it will have outdated terminology and information, but that's also useful for determining authenticity. You can see here on the table of contents that they have a page for Pelagio's Claw, which is a sort of gnarled mushroom common to western Poneland, but the modern term for it is actually Fraudwort."
He groans. "But I'll need privacy, because otherwise I'm going to be distracted by your beautiful womanhood."
This isn't said seductively or flirtatiously at all. Instead, he sounds annoyed and frustrated, as though he's complaining that the coming rain will force him to paint indoors.
>>478679
You are falling-down drunk. You try to work the handle of the door, but eventually you just kind of collapse up against it.
>>478681
"Oh, no doubt, but it is time for the next great adventure. I will need an heir to pass on the knowledge of the legendary keepers of the gate."
>>478682
Eventually he comes back with another pony, who takes a look at it. "Okay, so there are a few different ways of dating ancient texts. Really, a fungal guide from a few centuries against isn't going to be useful because it will have outdated terminology and information, but that's also useful for determining authenticity. You can see here on the table of contents that they have a page for Pelagio's Claw, which is a sort of gnarled mushroom common to western Poneland, but the modern term for it is actually Fraudwort."
>>478688
I'll nod.
"Alright, so you've determined that what I've said is true and it's derived from an old text. How much further authentication of the information will you need, barring me from running to get the source material of the transcription and risking it falling apart due to the crowd jostling me to bits?"
I'll nod.
"Alright, so you've determined that what I've said is true and it's derived from an old text. How much further authentication of the information will you need, barring me from running to get the source material of the transcription and risking it falling apart due to the crowd jostling me to bits?"
>>478689
You black out.
>>478690
He groans. "Haven't you ever heard that the greatest artists are the horniest? That's where the phrase 'starving for pussy artist' comes from. It's just one of the many issues that I have to deal with. Now begone so I can work."
>>478691
He nods. "Good luck to you, then."
>>478692
The pone raises a brow. "Well, the information seems authentic, it's just about appraising the quality of the transcription and demand for an ancient text that isn't actually ancient – just a copy of an ancient text. Still, this could sell at auction for somewhere in the ballpark of… sixty, seventy-five bits."
You black out.
>>478690
He groans. "Haven't you ever heard that the greatest artists are the horniest? That's where the phrase 'starving for pussy artist' comes from. It's just one of the many issues that I have to deal with. Now begone so I can work."
>>478691
He nods. "Good luck to you, then."
>>478692
The pone raises a brow. "Well, the information seems authentic, it's just about appraising the quality of the transcription and demand for an ancient text that isn't actually ancient – just a copy of an ancient text. Still, this could sell at auction for somewhere in the ballpark of… sixty, seventy-five bits."
>>478706
She cocks her head at you.
>>478705
You wake up a little later. If you have anything to kill time until the meeting (when Knight can play) or until you hunt with Seekkill (when Campfire can play), you can do that.
>>478703
"Look, I can do forty bits right now, you walk out of here with enough money to tide you over until you get that next book done."
She cocks her head at you.
>>478705
You wake up a little later. If you have anything to kill time until the meeting (when Knight can play) or until you hunt with Seekkill (when Campfire can play), you can do that.
>>478703
"Look, I can do forty bits right now, you walk out of here with enough money to tide you over until you get that next book done."
>>478753
"I'm mixing a gibson. It's like a martini, only instead of an olive it's garnished with a guitar. I mean, a cocktail onion. Anyway, if I had a coconut shell I could make it into a neuromancer."
>>478755
"Well, believe it or not, I've been actually picking up a lot about medicine and combat in the weeks I've been with you. I was thinking about focusing on one or the other."
>>478754
You were there for the discussion. Emrille talked him into drawing some maps, but he insisted that you not be there to distract him because great artists are always horny.
>>478756
He nods approvingly. "No doubt the will make splendid stew – and trophies. You're invited to dinner, if you like, and I've had the housemaids set aside some nicer clothes for you."
"I'm mixing a gibson. It's like a martini, only instead of an olive it's garnished with a guitar. I mean, a cocktail onion. Anyway, if I had a coconut shell I could make it into a neuromancer."
>>478755
"Well, believe it or not, I've been actually picking up a lot about medicine and combat in the weeks I've been with you. I was thinking about focusing on one or the other."
>>478754
You were there for the discussion. Emrille talked him into drawing some maps, but he insisted that you not be there to distract him because great artists are always horny.
>>478756
He nods approvingly. "No doubt the will make splendid stew – and trophies. You're invited to dinner, if you like, and I've had the housemaids set aside some nicer clothes for you."
>>478767
>>478768
>>478769
You all head to the meeting. Most everyone is already here.
Smitts bangs his hoof on the table. "Alright, tonight we just have a few items on the agenda, then I'll turn you loose to take care of your own business. The first order of note is that I will be naming a new officer on probationary period, and as is traditional we'll have a hearing in a few weeks to determine if she stays. I'm naming a new Commander of the Hourglass, and a few other minor titles. Then I have an administrative motion. So, unless there are any requests for the floor, we'll be moving on to the first item on tonight's docket."
>>478771
"In the room we've set aside for you."
Salamander coughs. "I cashed in a favor good for a few days until we can get out town."
>>478768
>>478769
You all head to the meeting. Most everyone is already here.
Smitts bangs his hoof on the table. "Alright, tonight we just have a few items on the agenda, then I'll turn you loose to take care of your own business. The first order of note is that I will be naming a new officer on probationary period, and as is traditional we'll have a hearing in a few weeks to determine if she stays. I'm naming a new Commander of the Hourglass, and a few other minor titles. Then I have an administrative motion. So, unless there are any requests for the floor, we'll be moving on to the first item on tonight's docket."
>>478771
"In the room we've set aside for you."
Salamander coughs. "I cashed in a favor good for a few days until we can get out town."
>>478772
"Excellent Salamander."
Hum a little tune as I head up to the room and hop in the bath
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEkKWKLwIrU
"Excellent Salamander."
Hum a little tune as I head up to the room and hop in the bath
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEkKWKLwIrU
>>478774
>>478776
>>478778
"She can't be with us this evening, but I am promoting Miss Felfire to the Officer Corps as earlier stated. Please hold objections until the review in a few weeks. Next up, minor titles, I am having Mister Sandwich transferred to the Eagle's Roost, he will serve there as ship chef. In light of recent performance, I am officially elevating Misses Nurturing Heart and Diamond Luck to the title of Doctor and respectively moving them to the Eagle's Roost and Seaworthy. I am also appointing Miss Doldrums as heir to the title of Fleet Navigator, in which case, her title of Quartermaster will pass to Miss Helena. I am elevating Miss Light Heart to the position of Duty Officer in addition to her other titles, along with Mister Rahjak to the Seaworthy, and Keymaster to the Darklantern. The title of Commander of Hourglass will be created in the name of Mister Cross, and the title of Condottiero in the name of Miss Emrille. Any questions before moving on to administrative matters?"
>>478777
You peak through. Interesting… it seems to lead directly into the palace district. An alternate way in for the Imperial guards…
>>478775
You get squeaky clean!
>>478776
>>478778
"She can't be with us this evening, but I am promoting Miss Felfire to the Officer Corps as earlier stated. Please hold objections until the review in a few weeks. Next up, minor titles, I am having Mister Sandwich transferred to the Eagle's Roost, he will serve there as ship chef. In light of recent performance, I am officially elevating Misses Nurturing Heart and Diamond Luck to the title of Doctor and respectively moving them to the Eagle's Roost and Seaworthy. I am also appointing Miss Doldrums as heir to the title of Fleet Navigator, in which case, her title of Quartermaster will pass to Miss Helena. I am elevating Miss Light Heart to the position of Duty Officer in addition to her other titles, along with Mister Rahjak to the Seaworthy, and Keymaster to the Darklantern. The title of Commander of Hourglass will be created in the name of Mister Cross, and the title of Condottiero in the name of Miss Emrille. Any questions before moving on to administrative matters?"
>>478777
You peak through. Interesting… it seems to lead directly into the palace district. An alternate way in for the Imperial guards…
>>478775
You get squeaky clean!
>>478780
I smirk.
That's good enough too, I guess.
"Fine by me, and thanks for the title. Though one of the nurses on the Seaworthy were slow as fuck.
As in, it was a wonder she could breathe. Not sure if that's either of the ones who just got to be a doctor. Because I'm not sure that's a good idea."
I smirk.
That's good enough too, I guess.
"Fine by me, and thanks for the title. Though one of the nurses on the Seaworthy were slow as fuck.
As in, it was a wonder she could breathe. Not sure if that's either of the ones who just got to be a doctor. Because I'm not sure that's a good idea."
>>478786
>>478783
In an even voice, with no change in tone: "Good. In that case, I move to revoke the privilege of non-appeal. In response, I table the motion for three days. We will reconvene in that time. Goodnight."
He slams his hoof on the table and turns to depart. Everyone in the room is on edge, and you think you heard some soft gasps.
Jones stands up and barks: "I OBJECT TO THE CONSIDERATION OF THE QUESTION."
Smitts turns around, seemingly bemused, and raises his brows. "Is there a second?"
Sunnyskies and Umlock are shaking their heads. No one says a word.
"Lacking a second, motion denied. Good evening."
>>478788
You snoop around the house but don't find any keys. Hey, these are imperial guards!
>>478783
In an even voice, with no change in tone: "Good. In that case, I move to revoke the privilege of non-appeal. In response, I table the motion for three days. We will reconvene in that time. Goodnight."
He slams his hoof on the table and turns to depart. Everyone in the room is on edge, and you think you heard some soft gasps.
Jones stands up and barks: "I OBJECT TO THE CONSIDERATION OF THE QUESTION."
Smitts turns around, seemingly bemused, and raises his brows. "Is there a second?"
Sunnyskies and Umlock are shaking their heads. No one says a word.
"Lacking a second, motion denied. Good evening."
>>478788
You snoop around the house but don't find any keys. Hey, these are imperial guards!
>>478787
Last time someone let me put on a dress uniform was when I tortured captive spies for a living. Good times.
Lets get dressed, stash the alternative clothes somewhere safe, and get to eating. With luck I might even hear good news about the abundance of snakes I've provided for the head of the house.
'1d10'
Roll #1 10 = 10
Last time someone let me put on a dress uniform was when I tortured captive spies for a living. Good times.
Lets get dressed, stash the alternative clothes somewhere safe, and get to eating. With luck I might even hear good news about the abundance of snakes I've provided for the head of the house.
'1d10'
Roll #1 10 = 10
>>478791
It's not that kind of dress!
You head to the dinner table. The Master of the House is at the head of the table, though the Head of the Household is not joining them tonight. No doubt his position as Roadesian Controller keeps him busy. The spread is exquisite. Bisque seems to be the centerpiece, though there is fine marmot and cumquat garnished in sea salt. There are also salads for those with less developed appetites.
As you step in he stands up and gives you a hand. "Ah, this must be the man of the hour. I'll be hanging those above my mantle. Please, what is your name, sir?"
>>478792
He could be in there all night!
It's not that kind of dress!
You head to the dinner table. The Master of the House is at the head of the table, though the Head of the Household is not joining them tonight. No doubt his position as Roadesian Controller keeps him busy. The spread is exquisite. Bisque seems to be the centerpiece, though there is fine marmot and cumquat garnished in sea salt. There are also salads for those with less developed appetites.
As you step in he stands up and gives you a hand. "Ah, this must be the man of the hour. I'll be hanging those above my mantle. Please, what is your name, sir?"
>>478792
He could be in there all night!
>>478803
"Yes, indeed."
>>478804
"It's good that you came anyway. I needed to discuss your position. The position of Condottiera has not existed since the land of Pastureami has independent of Equestria at least. Indeed, there is no word quite like it in Equestrian. It doesn't just mean 'commander of mercenaries', it means 'contractor' as well. For generations the fleet has done without a significant number of mercenaries, but my ambitions require changing that. Between Miss Tela and Mister Strom – along with your own origins, you seem the officer most associated with mercenaries, so I thought it could keep you busy."
>>478805
Movp accompanies you over. "I think you'll do quite well on the Hourglass. Do you know what she was named before she came into the fleet?"
The dhow has a large lanteen sail at the fore and a couple of small squares near the aft for propulsion. It sits quite light in the water and only bears cannons on deck, bolted in place. The hold is quite limited, but if you really had a mind do, you might be able to build a functioning galley here. Ah, yes, and your quarters. You'll have to appraise them later.
"Yes, indeed."
>>478804
"It's good that you came anyway. I needed to discuss your position. The position of Condottiera has not existed since the land of Pastureami has independent of Equestria at least. Indeed, there is no word quite like it in Equestrian. It doesn't just mean 'commander of mercenaries', it means 'contractor' as well. For generations the fleet has done without a significant number of mercenaries, but my ambitions require changing that. Between Miss Tela and Mister Strom – along with your own origins, you seem the officer most associated with mercenaries, so I thought it could keep you busy."
>>478805
Movp accompanies you over. "I think you'll do quite well on the Hourglass. Do you know what she was named before she came into the fleet?"
The dhow has a large lanteen sail at the fore and a couple of small squares near the aft for propulsion. It sits quite light in the water and only bears cannons on deck, bolted in place. The hold is quite limited, but if you really had a mind do, you might be able to build a functioning galley here. Ah, yes, and your quarters. You'll have to appraise them later.
>>478903
"Sure, but this isn't an auction. And even at an auction, you wouldn't get all of that money. You'd have to pay a cut to the auctioneer. Besides, you have to remember that I need to make some money off of this transaction too, right? Where am I going to get a better deal than auction price – by definition the best market for a seller?"
"Sure, but this isn't an auction. And even at an auction, you wouldn't get all of that money. You'd have to pay a cut to the auctioneer. Besides, you have to remember that I need to make some money off of this transaction too, right? Where am I going to get a better deal than auction price – by definition the best market for a seller?"
>>478697
You get up and wander about in a daze. A drunken stupor, if you will. Eventually you stumble into the darkness of a hold, and you hear a voice address you. You can't really make out what it is, though, so you just try to smile at it. You're not sure where it is coming from, though, so you twist about in hopes of smiling in the direction of the voice.
Eventually you feel the wind knocked out of you. You come to about a minute later feeling totally – or at least mostly – sober. Ugh.
You get up and wander about in a daze. A drunken stupor, if you will. Eventually you stumble into the darkness of a hold, and you hear a voice address you. You can't really make out what it is, though, so you just try to smile at it. You're not sure where it is coming from, though, so you twist about in hopes of smiling in the direction of the voice.
Eventually you feel the wind knocked out of you. You come to about a minute later feeling totally – or at least mostly – sober. Ugh.
>>478908
"I'll give you that, I suppose. Sixty should leave you plenty for a profit margin, though, and I'd be able to purchase enough to get through at least four of the remaining books I need to transcribe, assuming I don't find a place that sells quality writing materials for a fair, and perhaps even cheap, price?"
"I'll give you that, I suppose. Sixty should leave you plenty for a profit margin, though, and I'd be able to purchase enough to get through at least four of the remaining books I need to transcribe, assuming I don't find a place that sells quality writing materials for a fair, and perhaps even cheap, price?"
>>478912
"The first thing you must understand about being a duty officer is the hierarchy of positions among menials. Even amongst menials there are elites and there are downtrodden. I recommend you speak to Mellow Marsh, as he was duty officer for a long time on his previous vessel. As for in general, your job is simple. Maintenance of the duty chart and distribution of jobs to menial crewmembers. Solution of labor disputes."
>>478913
"You will gain some power of the purse, which does not equate to freedom of embezzlement. That said, the position carries significant prestige and commands respect, so if you don't mess up, you will be on the short list for a real promotion. Into the mates' ranks."
>>478914
With a closing line like that, you get the feeling that you should work on your insults. At least… after you sober up.
>>478801
The third tier is the most green you've seen yet inside the city. Home to the mansions of the upper class, the only real public area is the botanical garden.
>>478918
"I can do fifty five."
>>478920
Hm… you're laying around in one of the holds.
"The first thing you must understand about being a duty officer is the hierarchy of positions among menials. Even amongst menials there are elites and there are downtrodden. I recommend you speak to Mellow Marsh, as he was duty officer for a long time on his previous vessel. As for in general, your job is simple. Maintenance of the duty chart and distribution of jobs to menial crewmembers. Solution of labor disputes."
>>478913
"You will gain some power of the purse, which does not equate to freedom of embezzlement. That said, the position carries significant prestige and commands respect, so if you don't mess up, you will be on the short list for a real promotion. Into the mates' ranks."
>>478914
With a closing line like that, you get the feeling that you should work on your insults. At least… after you sober up.
>>478801
The third tier is the most green you've seen yet inside the city. Home to the mansions of the upper class, the only real public area is the botanical garden.
>>478918
"I can do fifty five."
>>478920
Hm… you're laying around in one of the holds.
>>478924
Hm… you ended up on the Eagle's Roost somehow.
>>478925
Well, not everywhere anymore. It's getting quite late. Still, there are some. And those who insist on carrying umbrellas with their hoop skirts even after dark.
>>478926
Probably in his quarters – or the hold.
>>478928
"Yes, more or less."
>>478929
He gives you a hard look. "You drive a hard bargain, but fine, fifty eight it is." He grabs your little hoof and shakes it, then completes the transaction.
>>478930
The headpiece was lost to a pygmy raid and taken back to their ancient city on the northern end of the island.
The gemstone is in the private collection of Lord Startlemonger.
The staff is in the hidden museum of Panama.
Hm… you ended up on the Eagle's Roost somehow.
>>478925
Well, not everywhere anymore. It's getting quite late. Still, there are some. And those who insist on carrying umbrellas with their hoop skirts even after dark.
>>478926
Probably in his quarters – or the hold.
>>478928
"Yes, more or less."
>>478929
He gives you a hard look. "You drive a hard bargain, but fine, fifty eight it is." He grabs your little hoof and shakes it, then completes the transaction.
>>478930
The headpiece was lost to a pygmy raid and taken back to their ancient city on the northern end of the island.
The gemstone is in the private collection of Lord Startlemonger.
The staff is in the hidden museum of Panama.
>>478934
"Yeah?"
>>478935
"The Captains of each vessel, particularly the Seaworthy, still retain some traditional privileges that give them a degree of independent authority. Chief among these is the privilege of non-appeal. Suffice to say that uniting the fleet under a more centralized and unified structure will naturally be unpopular with some, but it is something that will have to be dealt with."
>>478937
What?
>>478938
A raised brow. "…Yes?"
>>478939
You see plenty of locals at the nearby market.
"Yeah?"
>>478935
"The Captains of each vessel, particularly the Seaworthy, still retain some traditional privileges that give them a degree of independent authority. Chief among these is the privilege of non-appeal. Suffice to say that uniting the fleet under a more centralized and unified structure will naturally be unpopular with some, but it is something that will have to be dealt with."
>>478937
What?
>>478938
A raised brow. "…Yes?"
>>478939
You see plenty of locals at the nearby market.
>>478942
"Come in, then. I'm always happy to entertain a lady, even at this late hour. Though I'm surprised you'd come here after such a startle, I suppose it's not unlike you to be on top of things. I can summise from your appearance that you must be interested in knowing what it takes to be a duty officer. I wonder if you have any specific questions. No doubt you know of my time as a duty officer and have selected me for advice on that premise. I'm always happy to help a fellow fleet member, after all. So, how can I help you?"
>>478943
There may have been once, but this place seems empty.
>>478945
"We shall yet see. Until then, get some rest. We have a big day tomorrow. Besides, the vote isn't for several days."
>>478946
He shakes his head. "Sounds like some fancy pants."
"Come in, then. I'm always happy to entertain a lady, even at this late hour. Though I'm surprised you'd come here after such a startle, I suppose it's not unlike you to be on top of things. I can summise from your appearance that you must be interested in knowing what it takes to be a duty officer. I wonder if you have any specific questions. No doubt you know of my time as a duty officer and have selected me for advice on that premise. I'm always happy to help a fellow fleet member, after all. So, how can I help you?"
>>478943
There may have been once, but this place seems empty.
>>478945
"We shall yet see. Until then, get some rest. We have a big day tomorrow. Besides, the vote isn't for several days."
>>478946
He shakes his head. "Sounds like some fancy pants."
>>478950
"Yes, that's in general the case. An overview, if you will. The specific part is mostly involved with diplomatically handling labor division and disputes. Certain jobs are more desirable due to prestige or comfort, such as lookout, sailor, cook, or carpenter. Other jobs have a higher pay to offset their difficulty, and thus may be desirable in that way, such as bilgerat. Some jobs are never desirable, such as swabbie, but they must be done by someone nonetheless. In addition to distributing the labor, its up to you to enforce it. Catch those slacking off or that stay in bed all day. You are authorized to let the cat out of the bag and have them kiss the gunner's daughter: I'll issue you a key."
>>478952
Everyone seems to be settling in for the night. Officers departing meeting.
>>478953
"Good, good. Drop them by my office."
>>478954
"Oh, this little thing? Don't you recognize a Don Juan?"
>>478955
You head up to the upper class district on tier three. Tela is here, chatting with a rich looking mare.
"Yes, that's in general the case. An overview, if you will. The specific part is mostly involved with diplomatically handling labor division and disputes. Certain jobs are more desirable due to prestige or comfort, such as lookout, sailor, cook, or carpenter. Other jobs have a higher pay to offset their difficulty, and thus may be desirable in that way, such as bilgerat. Some jobs are never desirable, such as swabbie, but they must be done by someone nonetheless. In addition to distributing the labor, its up to you to enforce it. Catch those slacking off or that stay in bed all day. You are authorized to let the cat out of the bag and have them kiss the gunner's daughter: I'll issue you a key."
>>478952
Everyone seems to be settling in for the night. Officers departing meeting.
>>478953
"Good, good. Drop them by my office."
>>478954
"Oh, this little thing? Don't you recognize a Don Juan?"
>>478955
You head up to the upper class district on tier three. Tela is here, chatting with a rich looking mare.
>>478960
"Really? Because it's a Don Michael."
>>478961
"Yes, of course…"
He rambles on for a time with some variations on the same information just for the sake of hearing his own voice.
>>478962
"See Topaz. And I haven't decided on that quite yet."
>>478963
He shrugs. "Narr."
>>478964
She seems to be speaking to a total stranger. Probably trying to hit on this rich pony.
"Really? Because it's a Don Michael."
>>478961
"Yes, of course…"
He rambles on for a time with some variations on the same information just for the sake of hearing his own voice.
>>478962
"See Topaz. And I haven't decided on that quite yet."
>>478963
He shrugs. "Narr."
>>478964
She seems to be speaking to a total stranger. Probably trying to hit on this rich pony.
>>478967
Nope.
>>478968
"Relax, I think. No doubt that this is a place of culture. I think I'm growing dangerously fond of the easy life, but we'll need to raid to sustain ourselves eventually. However, after Autumnsreach, I'm happy for a break. I actually received my promotion mostly because of the valor I displayed in the mission I was sent on to recover those sea charts with the Eye. Too many close calls… and don't even get me started on the traps and monsters. We quite nearly died."
>>478970
"Right… Say, what do you make of the moon this evening?"
>>478971
You wander the pleasant greeny third tier.
>>478972
He groans. "Yes, Emrille, I was long aware of it."
>>478973
You don't see many ponies left out because of the advanced hour.
Nope.
>>478968
"Relax, I think. No doubt that this is a place of culture. I think I'm growing dangerously fond of the easy life, but we'll need to raid to sustain ourselves eventually. However, after Autumnsreach, I'm happy for a break. I actually received my promotion mostly because of the valor I displayed in the mission I was sent on to recover those sea charts with the Eye. Too many close calls… and don't even get me started on the traps and monsters. We quite nearly died."
>>478970
"Right… Say, what do you make of the moon this evening?"
>>478971
You wander the pleasant greeny third tier.
>>478972
He groans. "Yes, Emrille, I was long aware of it."
>>478973
You don't see many ponies left out because of the advanced hour.
>>478976
"Based on the reports, I would have thought that would have been in Stonebriar. As I recall you lost a follower of yours permanently back there."
>>478978
Seems like it must have been successful, as the ships are sitting higher in the water.
>>478979
It looks quite lovely. Your appraisal is just fast enough that you glance down in time to see she is departing while you're busy looking at it.
>>478980
"Use your head, Emrille. I don't want to spell it out for you."
>>478981
Seems so. She's already bedded down.
"Based on the reports, I would have thought that would have been in Stonebriar. As I recall you lost a follower of yours permanently back there."
>>478978
Seems like it must have been successful, as the ships are sitting higher in the water.
>>478979
It looks quite lovely. Your appraisal is just fast enough that you glance down in time to see she is departing while you're busy looking at it.
>>478980
"Use your head, Emrille. I don't want to spell it out for you."
>>478981
Seems so. She's already bedded down.
>>478983
It's Narrow Moonbeam.
>>478984
"How disgusting. I'm not a fan of necromancers by any means."
>>478986
You head inside and find the forge low on coals and the room dark. Topaz has probably turned in for the evening. An elderly pone like her needs the sleep anyway.
>>478987
You head back to the fleet. It's getting pretty late.
It's Narrow Moonbeam.
>>478984
"How disgusting. I'm not a fan of necromancers by any means."
>>478986
You head inside and find the forge low on coals and the room dark. Topaz has probably turned in for the evening. An elderly pone like her needs the sleep anyway.
>>478987
You head back to the fleet. It's getting pretty late.
>>478990
I just flew in from Prance, and boy is my occipital lobe tired.
>>478989
"Not particularly. It seems anyone can get a promotion on that ship if they have a talent for making bones dance."
>>478991
You head down to his office. The secretary has left for the night.
>>478992
You see a skeleton crew on deck. Just a few ponies out, most headed to bed. After all, you only need guards while in port.
I just flew in from Prance, and boy is my occipital lobe tired.
>>478989
"Not particularly. It seems anyone can get a promotion on that ship if they have a talent for making bones dance."
>>478991
You head down to his office. The secretary has left for the night.
>>478992
You see a skeleton crew on deck. Just a few ponies out, most headed to bed. After all, you only need guards while in port.
>>479003
Fine. Roll for tired flight.
>>479002
Not exactly.
You doze off sometime after that.
>>479001
Yes. You can't quite recall what happened.
>>479005
"Interesting. Very well, just sign here."
He pulls out a sheet. "I like the new style, by the way. And this is actually good timing for you, as it will mean you won't be under the authority of your girlfriend."
>>479006
Yes, but it's quite late. You yawn a big, cute puppydog yawn. Perhaps tomorrow will be your big day. You were busy playing with your pets and proteges today.
Fine. Roll for tired flight.
>>479002
Not exactly.
You doze off sometime after that.
>>479001
Yes. You can't quite recall what happened.
>>479005
"Interesting. Very well, just sign here."
He pulls out a sheet. "I like the new style, by the way. And this is actually good timing for you, as it will mean you won't be under the authority of your girlfriend."
>>479006
Yes, but it's quite late. You yawn a big, cute puppydog yawn. Perhaps tomorrow will be your big day. You were busy playing with your pets and proteges today.
>>479009
There's nothing unusual about this contract. In fact, it's a bit looser than most you've committed to in the past.
"I revived the ancient position of Mercenary Commander and gave it to Emrille."
>>479010
"Mmm?"
>>479011
You drowsily and narrowly make it. If you hadn't taken that nap, you would've crashed!
>>479012
You creep out into the city and catch a glimpse of a bag of coins laying around next to a stall. A merchant must have dropped it! What luck!
There's nothing unusual about this contract. In fact, it's a bit looser than most you've committed to in the past.
"I revived the ancient position of Mercenary Commander and gave it to Emrille."
>>479010
"Mmm?"
>>479011
You drowsily and narrowly make it. If you hadn't taken that nap, you would've crashed!
>>479012
You creep out into the city and catch a glimpse of a bag of coins laying around next to a stall. A merchant must have dropped it! What luck!
>>479015
Hey, looks like there's about twenty bits in here. Not bad.
>>479014
"Yeah, I mean… I've got a rough draft. It's a work in progress, so don't judge it too harshly."
>>479016
Hold on there tiger, better let the others go to sleep before you do next day actions.
>>479018
Complain to these fuckers that won't go to sleep. I told them but he insisted NOOOOO I have to do it tonight.
>>479017
"She's on the Seaworthy. I'll transfer you there if you prefer."
Hey, looks like there's about twenty bits in here. Not bad.
>>479014
"Yeah, I mean… I've got a rough draft. It's a work in progress, so don't judge it too harshly."
>>479016
Hold on there tiger, better let the others go to sleep before you do next day actions.
>>479018
Complain to these fuckers that won't go to sleep. I told them but he insisted NOOOOO I have to do it tonight.
>>479017
"She's on the Seaworthy. I'll transfer you there if you prefer."
>>479023
At three crits, that was some kind of naughty.
She's not a nurse anymore, though. You're fucking a highly respected mindbroken gender-reversed doctor.
>>479022
You take a look at the drawings of the maps. They're actually really good. As soon as you take a look at them, he groans. "Ugh! I knew you'd hate them!" and he throws them into the nearby fire where they burn up.
>>479021
You go sleep there.
>>479024
You head back to the ship nursing your winnings and sleep.
At three crits, that was some kind of naughty.
She's not a nurse anymore, though. You're fucking a highly respected mindbroken gender-reversed doctor.
>>479022
You take a look at the drawings of the maps. They're actually really good. As soon as you take a look at them, he groans. "Ugh! I knew you'd hate them!" and he throws them into the nearby fire where they burn up.
>>479021
You go sleep there.
>>479024
You head back to the ship nursing your winnings and sleep.
>>479057
Sultry sleep the dreamer quakes yon dusking hour unto morn now unbroken naught! Heretofore the mind commanded undaunted dream of waking hour's kiss, and now, the breath of fresh wind of reality caress sinew long forgotten like life breathed through whispered word.
>>479058
"I heard about that. You keep busy."
>>479060
"Yes, Chip?"
Sultry sleep the dreamer quakes yon dusking hour unto morn now unbroken naught! Heretofore the mind commanded undaunted dream of waking hour's kiss, and now, the breath of fresh wind of reality caress sinew long forgotten like life breathed through whispered word.
>>479058
"I heard about that. You keep busy."
>>479060
"Yes, Chip?"
>>479070
Breakfast is good. Landgrave mentions he's going in town to meet with some contacts, you have the day off.
>>479072
Forever doubtless. Unwavering doth tangible fear approachth. The sun rises in the northwest, and seeping from the grave of the hour: they come. Even flight, one last downdraft. To reach: to go the distance. Guidance: war. The ultimatum of blood. And now the scarlet path walked by he who triumphs fates' bloody coup.
>>479077
"Yep, last couple of times I was here. They're mostly harmless. They play up the pirate bit but they're mostly privateers. Government sanctioned."
Breakfast is good. Landgrave mentions he's going in town to meet with some contacts, you have the day off.
>>479072
Forever doubtless. Unwavering doth tangible fear approachth. The sun rises in the northwest, and seeping from the grave of the hour: they come. Even flight, one last downdraft. To reach: to go the distance. Guidance: war. The ultimatum of blood. And now the scarlet path walked by he who triumphs fates' bloody coup.
>>479077
"Yep, last couple of times I was here. They're mostly harmless. They play up the pirate bit but they're mostly privateers. Government sanctioned."
>>479091
"If you're thinking what I'm thinking you're thinking, forget about it."
>>479092
"Hey Chip."
Then to Topaz.
"I'll need six doubloons for myself, as some early payment, and ten doubloons that will be strictly used to recruitment purposes and nothing else. As the Merc Captain, I know that some of them will only join once they catch a wiff of the money to come. You could give me a different pouch for it too, so it's easier to keep track of it."
"If you're thinking what I'm thinking you're thinking, forget about it."
>>479092
"Hey Chip."
Then to Topaz.
"I'll need six doubloons for myself, as some early payment, and ten doubloons that will be strictly used to recruitment purposes and nothing else. As the Merc Captain, I know that some of them will only join once they catch a wiff of the money to come. You could give me a different pouch for it too, so it's easier to keep track of it."
>>479106
"Want me to write those little paper thingy shits, or is it enough if I say how much money went to who?"
Roll my eyes.
"Smitts allowed it in word yesterday. Let's not waste the time of all of us with paperwork we don't need. Trust is a thing around here, isn't it?"
>>479108
"You do?
Why the fuck did you never preen me then before?"
"Want me to write those little paper thingy shits, or is it enough if I say how much money went to who?"
Roll my eyes.
"Smitts allowed it in word yesterday. Let's not waste the time of all of us with paperwork we don't need. Trust is a thing around here, isn't it?"
>>479108
"You do?
Why the fuck did you never preen me then before?"
>>479211
"Guns are quite popular back home. I was taught how to handle one quite early on, as is common in Dixie."
Pat my pistols.
"These two have been with me for quite some time and they have been a tremendous help so far, but they are merely allies of necessity. I do prefer the diplomatic approach of things, but sometimes that is simply not an option."
"Guns are quite popular back home. I was taught how to handle one quite early on, as is common in Dixie."
Pat my pistols.
"These two have been with me for quite some time and they have been a tremendous help so far, but they are merely allies of necessity. I do prefer the diplomatic approach of things, but sometimes that is simply not an option."
>>479218
Let out a laugh.
"Just fucking with you.
Even I know that I can't solve every problem with shooting. Y'know, when I had to get a snooty mare for Abilio in Reptil, for magic research and shit?
I totally made her believe that I think unicorns are better and told her she needs to join the 'Unicorn Superiority' club on the ships."
Let out a laugh.
"Just fucking with you.
Even I know that I can't solve every problem with shooting. Y'know, when I had to get a snooty mare for Abilio in Reptil, for magic research and shit?
I totally made her believe that I think unicorns are better and told her she needs to join the 'Unicorn Superiority' club on the ships."
>>479221
"In all fairness, neither do I care about her. Still, I am inquisitive if anything. All of these small matters… they interest me, because they can lead to a better understanding of the big picture. As in finding out exactly how the fleet works to the smallest detail. Not everypony appreciates curiosity of course, but I cannot help myself. "
"In all fairness, neither do I care about her. Still, I am inquisitive if anything. All of these small matters… they interest me, because they can lead to a better understanding of the big picture. As in finding out exactly how the fleet works to the smallest detail. Not everypony appreciates curiosity of course, but I cannot help myself. "
>>479223
I laugh.
"Perhaps I am just meddlesome… but I know when to inquire and when to hold back. You do not like talking of certain things for example, and I can respect that. One must always know where their boundaries lie. Speaking of which, it seems the fleet's higher ranking crew are rather distressed about the results of yesterday's meeting."
I laugh.
"Perhaps I am just meddlesome… but I know when to inquire and when to hold back. You do not like talking of certain things for example, and I can respect that. One must always know where their boundaries lie. Speaking of which, it seems the fleet's higher ranking crew are rather distressed about the results of yesterday's meeting."
>>479254
"He is so fucking… urgh!
So, I got him to draw some plans about passages and shit for the city, right?
Stuff that could help us plan raids and everything?
I went to pick them up, glanced at him, they were perfect, and he fucking threw it in the fire saying he'd knew I think they would be terrible!"
"He is so fucking… urgh!
So, I got him to draw some plans about passages and shit for the city, right?
Stuff that could help us plan raids and everything?
I went to pick them up, glanced at him, they were perfect, and he fucking threw it in the fire saying he'd knew I think they would be terrible!"
>>479132
You just see signs in the windows. The thirty bit places look at lot nicer, though.
There is an alleyway nearby with a sign that says: Massages, 6 bits.
>>479134
"How do you figure? The Commodore is not a spear or any part of it. The tip of the spear is 'the point'."
>>479135
You go retrieve your fillies. If you were a stallion, this might seem creepy.
>>479136
I'll be honest. I forgot who you're talking to.
>>479137
You stop by and find Abilio engaged in conversation with Felfire.
You just see signs in the windows. The thirty bit places look at lot nicer, though.
There is an alleyway nearby with a sign that says: Massages, 6 bits.
>>479134
"How do you figure? The Commodore is not a spear or any part of it. The tip of the spear is 'the point'."
>>479135
You go retrieve your fillies. If you were a stallion, this might seem creepy.
>>479136
I'll be honest. I forgot who you're talking to.
>>479137
You stop by and find Abilio engaged in conversation with Felfire.
>>479274
HP leads you through the marketplace, where all the vendors are selling a menagerie of items, ranging from the practical to the ridiculous.
Nearby a collection of stalls is offering free samples of potions that claim to enhance various traits, like sight, hearing, and sense of smell.
>>479275
Where to, then?
>>479277
"Good luck. Tell me how it goes."
>>479278
You had a delightful meal and that has dissipated. You spend the rest of the night in and regroup here.
In the morning, you awake. Time to go seek out Essan or those ships to perform on, probably.
HP leads you through the marketplace, where all the vendors are selling a menagerie of items, ranging from the practical to the ridiculous.
Nearby a collection of stalls is offering free samples of potions that claim to enhance various traits, like sight, hearing, and sense of smell.
>>479275
Where to, then?
>>479277
"Good luck. Tell me how it goes."
>>479278
You had a delightful meal and that has dissipated. You spend the rest of the night in and regroup here.
In the morning, you awake. Time to go seek out Essan or those ships to perform on, probably.
>>479281
Go for it, kiddo. You can see the thriving marketplace from here.
>>479282
HP cheerfully bounces along with you.
"You there, fine lady, surely you would like to improve your no doubt already amazing abilities? And here, today, special offer: free sample of our wide collection. Drink, and receive amazing power! Good sight, good smell, perhaps legendary power to vanquish enemies? Some potions just taste good, others give good taste in poems. Still more for bringing out new perspective!"
>>479283
"Come in."
>>479284
You make a grave error in letting Cast Iron lead and can't take your eyes off of him. It's not so much that you have your eyes glued to his junk because you're gay, though that may be a part. It's also because you are so damn curious about what things look like below for such a feminine model.
>>479286
You can see the wharfs and the great lock that lets ships into harbor, as well as the sprawling market.
>>479287
You go into the extremely fancy massage parlor. Everything is marble and sterile in here. There's a fancy pony at the desk in a suit with a fine mustache. He has his snout up in the air and everything.
"Good day fine madams. How can we help you?"
>>479288
"What Was Missing. I wonder what it was. Or perhaps the ship was? In any case, filling in the missing pieces will no doubt be useful."
Go for it, kiddo. You can see the thriving marketplace from here.
>>479282
HP cheerfully bounces along with you.
"You there, fine lady, surely you would like to improve your no doubt already amazing abilities? And here, today, special offer: free sample of our wide collection. Drink, and receive amazing power! Good sight, good smell, perhaps legendary power to vanquish enemies? Some potions just taste good, others give good taste in poems. Still more for bringing out new perspective!"
>>479283
"Come in."
>>479284
You make a grave error in letting Cast Iron lead and can't take your eyes off of him. It's not so much that you have your eyes glued to his junk because you're gay, though that may be a part. It's also because you are so damn curious about what things look like below for such a feminine model.
>>479286
You can see the wharfs and the great lock that lets ships into harbor, as well as the sprawling market.
>>479287
You go into the extremely fancy massage parlor. Everything is marble and sterile in here. There's a fancy pony at the desk in a suit with a fine mustache. He has his snout up in the air and everything.
"Good day fine madams. How can we help you?"
>>479288
"What Was Missing. I wonder what it was. Or perhaps the ship was? In any case, filling in the missing pieces will no doubt be useful."
>>479295
>>479304
"Very good. While you wait for one of our specialists, enjoy the complimentary steam room in the back."
>>479297
There's a large inn / tavern called The Sleepy Seagull at the very head of the wharf.
You wander through the market and find Light Heart appraising an alchemy booth with free samples.
>>479298
You find all manner of wonderful things. Curious animals from strange foreign lands, crackpot inventions, free potion samples, crazy exotic weapons, magical artifacts, and more. You also notice that the higher value the items, the more wary guards lurking nearby.
>>479299
He nods. "Yes, with the conclusion of my research, no need for you to remain as you are. Thank you for your participation."
With that, a light surrounds you, and a few seconds later you find yourself enjoying the tail end of your teenage years.
>>479300
Yes, except for the contents. Some bubble, some are mysteriously reflective. One bottle growls at you, and another whispers sweet nothings into your ear! One is smoking, another is swirling.
>>479301
"Perhaps so."
This ship lacks a dedicated bilge. There are buckets in the hold, but that's it.
>>479303
You glance around and spot a bunch of fine dresses, but then you get bumped by someone and run into a table of sex toys. L-lewd!
>>479304
"Very good. While you wait for one of our specialists, enjoy the complimentary steam room in the back."
>>479297
There's a large inn / tavern called The Sleepy Seagull at the very head of the wharf.
You wander through the market and find Light Heart appraising an alchemy booth with free samples.
>>479298
You find all manner of wonderful things. Curious animals from strange foreign lands, crackpot inventions, free potion samples, crazy exotic weapons, magical artifacts, and more. You also notice that the higher value the items, the more wary guards lurking nearby.
>>479299
He nods. "Yes, with the conclusion of my research, no need for you to remain as you are. Thank you for your participation."
With that, a light surrounds you, and a few seconds later you find yourself enjoying the tail end of your teenage years.
>>479300
Yes, except for the contents. Some bubble, some are mysteriously reflective. One bottle growls at you, and another whispers sweet nothings into your ear! One is smoking, another is swirling.
>>479301
"Perhaps so."
This ship lacks a dedicated bilge. There are buckets in the hold, but that's it.
>>479303
You glance around and spot a bunch of fine dresses, but then you get bumped by someone and run into a table of sex toys. L-lewd!
>>479311
A bunch of odd potions:
>Some bubble, some are mysteriously reflective. One bottle growls at you, and another whispers sweet nothings into your ear! One is smoking, another is swirling.
>>479312
"No doubt. My fiance told me that you spoke with her about it."
>>479313
>>479316
You head into the back. There's a big pool of water that steam is rising from. It's probably too hot to actually recline inside the water. There are benches nearby for sitting.
>>479314
Moments after drinking it, there's a pop, and you do not notice anything immediately. Rosemary yelps, and Happy Puzzle gasps. Stein remarks, "Astoundink!"
"AHA! My potion of legendary power is a success! You now have the ability to defeat any foe!"
Your wings have been replaced from their old feathery forms with iridescent incest wings, like those of the legendary (and perhaps mythical) Flutter Ponies.
>>479317
"Yes, with the bare minimum in your cabin."
>>479321
They're the most guarded. You're not sure how valuable they are. Some of these weapons look like they would require three paws to use… They look awesome, though.
>>479296
He has lead you down to the busy market.
"Better place than any to test your disguise, right?"
>>479324
Nothing suspicious, cap'n.
A bunch of odd potions:
>Some bubble, some are mysteriously reflective. One bottle growls at you, and another whispers sweet nothings into your ear! One is smoking, another is swirling.
>>479312
"No doubt. My fiance told me that you spoke with her about it."
>>479313
>>479316
You head into the back. There's a big pool of water that steam is rising from. It's probably too hot to actually recline inside the water. There are benches nearby for sitting.
>>479314
Moments after drinking it, there's a pop, and you do not notice anything immediately. Rosemary yelps, and Happy Puzzle gasps. Stein remarks, "Astoundink!"
"AHA! My potion of legendary power is a success! You now have the ability to defeat any foe!"
Your wings have been replaced from their old feathery forms with iridescent incest wings, like those of the legendary (and perhaps mythical) Flutter Ponies.
>>479317
"Yes, with the bare minimum in your cabin."
>>479321
They're the most guarded. You're not sure how valuable they are. Some of these weapons look like they would require three paws to use… They look awesome, though.
>>479296
He has lead you down to the busy market.
"Better place than any to test your disguise, right?"
>>479324
Nothing suspicious, cap'n.
>>479342
"Yes, indeed. No doubt you'll be departing soo yourself."
>>479333
They immediately snap and with a poof, revert to their old form.
The merchant groans. "Too unstable!"
>>479331
You gaffle the growling potion and down it with a gulp!
Suddenly, the light outside is WAY too bright for you.
"AHA! A success! My nightvision potion is perfect!"
>>479332
It is warm and pleasant in here.
>>479334
"No, the opera houses are up one level. Would you like me to take you to the one I perform at most frequently? I know some ponies there."
>>479335
You stop by the animal cages and find exotic tigers and bears, but there are also smaller animals here, too. Notably a monkey in a vest banging on his cage. Help!
>>479338
"Good fortune to you, then! And don't let them swindle you!"
>>479340
You see no town maps, but notice that Felfire's wings have become leathery, and her eyes yellow.
>>479341
How pleasant and moist, not unlike you.
"Yes, indeed. No doubt you'll be departing soo yourself."
>>479333
They immediately snap and with a poof, revert to their old form.
The merchant groans. "Too unstable!"
>>479331
You gaffle the growling potion and down it with a gulp!
Suddenly, the light outside is WAY too bright for you.
"AHA! A success! My nightvision potion is perfect!"
>>479332
It is warm and pleasant in here.
>>479334
"No, the opera houses are up one level. Would you like me to take you to the one I perform at most frequently? I know some ponies there."
>>479335
You stop by the animal cages and find exotic tigers and bears, but there are also smaller animals here, too. Notably a monkey in a vest banging on his cage. Help!
>>479338
"Good fortune to you, then! And don't let them swindle you!"
>>479340
You see no town maps, but notice that Felfire's wings have become leathery, and her eyes yellow.
>>479341
How pleasant and moist, not unlike you.
>>479348
"That's hit an unfortunate snag. Miss Seas has somehow become attached to Emrille, and would rather stay on the boats with her than even go home."
I'll shake my head.
"Just seems odd since before Dixie they were at each others' throats, and now they're practically attached at the hip."
"That's hit an unfortunate snag. Miss Seas has somehow become attached to Emrille, and would rather stay on the boats with her than even go home."
I'll shake my head.
"Just seems odd since before Dixie they were at each others' throats, and now they're practically attached at the hip."
>>479349
No answer.
He shrugged.
>>479350
It tastes great!
>>479351
You have a couple of rounds left of pleasant warmth.
>>479355
It's an iron-barred cage. The nearby shopkeep warns you, "Hey, hey, don't get too close! That one's a pickpocket."
You gotta bust me outta here! I don't belong here!
>>479356
"Ah, well, you know how children can be. You just were one."
>>479357
There's a batpony near by. In all your travels, you've never seen one of those.
>>479361
You head on up to mount hero. It's a long and tiring walk for an old horse, but you can see amazing granite statues here. The oldest are quite worn.
No answer.
He shrugged.
>>479350
It tastes great!
>>479351
You have a couple of rounds left of pleasant warmth.
>>479355
It's an iron-barred cage. The nearby shopkeep warns you, "Hey, hey, don't get too close! That one's a pickpocket."
You gotta bust me outta here! I don't belong here!
>>479356
"Ah, well, you know how children can be. You just were one."
>>479357
There's a batpony near by. In all your travels, you've never seen one of those.
>>479361
You head on up to mount hero. It's a long and tiring walk for an old horse, but you can see amazing granite statues here. The oldest are quite worn.
>>479365
"A child with the mind of an adult is far and away different than a child with the mind of a child."
I'll sigh.
"I just don't know what to do, really. Child rearing was never much part of the job description for a temple guardian. I'm beginning to worry whether or not she just going through some odd, rather abrupt phase, or if I did something that made her angry at me."
"A child with the mind of an adult is far and away different than a child with the mind of a child."
I'll sigh.
"I just don't know what to do, really. Child rearing was never much part of the job description for a temple guardian. I'm beginning to worry whether or not she just going through some odd, rather abrupt phase, or if I did something that made her angry at me."
>>479368
One round left here in the moist.
>>479370
You trot on over and find her clutching her eyes under a tree. -> >>479371
>>479371
Here in the shade, you're alright. In fact, you could probably walk around at day with some getting used to, it was just the eye adjustment shock.
>>479373
"Yes, my legendary perspective potion! No doubt there will be some fairy tale made about your life now!"
>>479375
"I'm sure she'll grow out of it. Sooner rather than later."
>>479377
"We caught him robbing stalls this morning."
It doesn't matter, just get me outta here! I'll double your investment. Triple!
>>479380
The very oldest have plaques, but they're too worn to read! Head over to the first legible one?
One round left here in the moist.
>>479370
You trot on over and find her clutching her eyes under a tree. -> >>479371
>>479371
Here in the shade, you're alright. In fact, you could probably walk around at day with some getting used to, it was just the eye adjustment shock.
>>479373
"Yes, my legendary perspective potion! No doubt there will be some fairy tale made about your life now!"
>>479375
"I'm sure she'll grow out of it. Sooner rather than later."
>>479377
"We caught him robbing stalls this morning."
It doesn't matter, just get me outta here! I'll double your investment. Triple!
>>479380
The very oldest have plaques, but they're too worn to read! Head over to the first legible one?
>>479384
A mare appears at the door. "Okay, two of our specialists are ready for you! Big Bertha and Cutie Pie. Bertha's on the left, Cutie on the right. One per room, please!"
With that she disappears.
>>479385
Cast chimes in. "That's not for a couple months."
>>479386
Leathery bat wings.
>>479387
You guzzle another drink and feel bestial vigor inside.
"Aha! With that potion, you'll be a real campfire story. Tell me how it turns out tomorrow."
>>479388
"Good day."
You head out.
>>479389
"Alright. But he was hell to catch. I'll part with him for three hundred bits."
Good.
A mare appears at the door. "Okay, two of our specialists are ready for you! Big Bertha and Cutie Pie. Bertha's on the left, Cutie on the right. One per room, please!"
With that she disappears.
>>479385
Cast chimes in. "That's not for a couple months."
>>479386
Leathery bat wings.
>>479387
You guzzle another drink and feel bestial vigor inside.
"Aha! With that potion, you'll be a real campfire story. Tell me how it turns out tomorrow."
>>479388
"Good day."
You head out.
>>479389
"Alright. But he was hell to catch. I'll part with him for three hundred bits."
Good.
>>479401
Okay.
>>479405
You go lay down on the table, and the door shuts behind you. A little filly walks up, "Okay, I'll be your specialist today! Any special needs, you be sure to tell me!"
>>479406
"It's free! It doesn't have to be legal! Er – that is to say, I don't have to tell you what it is if I don't charge you."
>>479410
You head in and see the most questionable sight ever. Your specialist greets you with a smile, shuts the door, and lays you down on the table. "Anything specific in need of extra attention?"
She seems strong, nice, and all around good at her job, except for the fact that she has the HUGE teats. Like to the point of ridiculousness. Like, cow udders nearly. You can only describe this ridiculous, nonsensical sight as "crotchboobs".
>>479411
"Well… alright. I could cut it in half if you do me a favor. But you have to swear on your life to keep it hush hush. And this is a real swear, I will really collect if you don't keep quiet. You in?"
Okay.
>>479405
You go lay down on the table, and the door shuts behind you. A little filly walks up, "Okay, I'll be your specialist today! Any special needs, you be sure to tell me!"
>>479406
"It's free! It doesn't have to be legal! Er – that is to say, I don't have to tell you what it is if I don't charge you."
>>479410
You head in and see the most questionable sight ever. Your specialist greets you with a smile, shuts the door, and lays you down on the table. "Anything specific in need of extra attention?"
She seems strong, nice, and all around good at her job, except for the fact that she has the HUGE teats. Like to the point of ridiculousness. Like, cow udders nearly. You can only describe this ridiculous, nonsensical sight as "crotchboobs".
>>479411
"Well… alright. I could cut it in half if you do me a favor. But you have to swear on your life to keep it hush hush. And this is a real swear, I will really collect if you don't keep quiet. You in?"
>>479418
I don't control Light Heart.
>>479419
"I need you to go pick up a package for me in the Buried Tomb. Take this skull lantern."
He holds out a lantern.
"Just head over to the wharfs and leap down into the shallows where the water is only an inch or two. There's an underground tunnel that leads below the market. It looks like it's a sewer pipe, but it won't smell like it, because it's not. Head on in to the very back. I've got a package waiting for me. There should be a lantern near it so it'll be easy to spot."
>>479420
You do that.
>>479421
You check out the next one that looks much more interesting and well kept.
>>479423
"No, no, no need for that. I am good pony. Bon voyage."
>>479424
She hops up on the table. "Sure thing!"
With that, she starts enthusiastically plucking out feathers. "Do you want a happy ending?"
>>479426
"Good, good! Lay down, and enjoy!"
Her hooves are like magic. It's actually very pleasant, except for occasionally when you think you feel one touch your back. Best not to think about it.
I don't control Light Heart.
>>479419
"I need you to go pick up a package for me in the Buried Tomb. Take this skull lantern."
He holds out a lantern.
"Just head over to the wharfs and leap down into the shallows where the water is only an inch or two. There's an underground tunnel that leads below the market. It looks like it's a sewer pipe, but it won't smell like it, because it's not. Head on in to the very back. I've got a package waiting for me. There should be a lantern near it so it'll be easy to spot."
>>479420
You do that.
>>479421
Liviana IX
Altered succession laws to be non-exclusionary. Reigned six consecutive lifetimes.You check out the next one that looks much more interesting and well kept.
Kang the Uncouth
Legendary seventh assassin of Liviana IX.>>479423
"No, no, no need for that. I am good pony. Bon voyage."
>>479424
She hops up on the table. "Sure thing!"
With that, she starts enthusiastically plucking out feathers. "Do you want a happy ending?"
>>479426
"Good, good! Lay down, and enjoy!"
Her hooves are like magic. It's actually very pleasant, except for occasionally when you think you feel one touch your back. Best not to think about it.
>>479444
You head out to the boardwalk wharfs. The pleasant sea breeze is in your fur.
>>479445
You regroup with all dem pones except Spring and Summer.
>>479447
You can't move on. Your urges need relief. Now.
>>479449
She offers you a happy smile.
>>479448
No staff that you can see, though someone must care for it.
>>479450
"Forty two!"
>>479451
Eventually she finishes up. "Anything else sweetie?"
You actually feel pretty good. Flexible. Healthy. I guess you can't really blame her for having weird biology.
>>479452
"Everyone is."
You head out to the boardwalk wharfs. The pleasant sea breeze is in your fur.
>>479445
You regroup with all dem pones except Spring and Summer.
>>479447
You can't move on. Your urges need relief. Now.
>>479449
She offers you a happy smile.
>>479448
No staff that you can see, though someone must care for it.
>>479450
"Forty two!"
>>479451
Eventually she finishes up. "Anything else sweetie?"
You actually feel pretty good. Flexible. Healthy. I guess you can't really blame her for having weird biology.
>>479452
"Everyone is."
>>479510
"As I said, he is my superior officer on the Sirocco. I have not conversed with him in length, unfortunately. Miss Emrille tells me he deals in various drugs and forced her to take some, so I must admit I am somewhat apprehensive about his trustworthiness. Then, I am not one to judge somepony by stories told by others alone."
"As I said, he is my superior officer on the Sirocco. I have not conversed with him in length, unfortunately. Miss Emrille tells me he deals in various drugs and forced her to take some, so I must admit I am somewhat apprehensive about his trustworthiness. Then, I am not one to judge somepony by stories told by others alone."
>>479511
"Well then, that could lead to some complications for the fleet. I know Miss Emrille to be a prankster, but this seems above her usual nature. I should keep an eye on him. I don't mind the meinals who enjoy a drink or two too many, but some of those drugs I saw ponies take could cause some ever problems for us. Thank you for telling me."
"Well then, that could lead to some complications for the fleet. I know Miss Emrille to be a prankster, but this seems above her usual nature. I should keep an eye on him. I don't mind the meinals who enjoy a drink or two too many, but some of those drugs I saw ponies take could cause some ever problems for us. Thank you for telling me."
>>479550
"In addition to that, our old family mansion was blown to bits with my sister and her husband inside it. A few years before that, my parents were murdered by a extremist diamond dog group who wish to seize control of Dixie and install their own rule there. They loathe ponies, which only strengthens my resolve to exterminate them."
"In addition to that, our old family mansion was blown to bits with my sister and her husband inside it. A few years before that, my parents were murdered by a extremist diamond dog group who wish to seize control of Dixie and install their own rule there. They loathe ponies, which only strengthens my resolve to exterminate them."
>>479599
"Of course, but I do not plan on making my involvement or name public knowledge in Dixie proper. I care little for whatever reward they would give me, as the main purpose in mind is revenge. As you no doubt know by now, Light Heart is merely a stage name. As for Novdogod, they shall get theirs in due time, I'm sure."
"Of course, but I do not plan on making my involvement or name public knowledge in Dixie proper. I care little for whatever reward they would give me, as the main purpose in mind is revenge. As you no doubt know by now, Light Heart is merely a stage name. As for Novdogod, they shall get theirs in due time, I'm sure."
>>479610
"Taking on the world, Miss Heart? I know you want revenge, I know what that's like, but you have to pick your battles, and in your case, your wars. I can help you if I'm still here to take out those terrorists, since being sneaky and fighting in small areas has been part of my training, but don't get in over too much."
"Taking on the world, Miss Heart? I know you want revenge, I know what that's like, but you have to pick your battles, and in your case, your wars. I can help you if I'm still here to take out those terrorists, since being sneaky and fighting in small areas has been part of my training, but don't get in over too much."
>>479462
You order the strongest, darkest, cheapest beer they've got.
"I do. Funny lookin' wings you got there. Got any interesting stories for me?"
>>479463
Dealer's choice.
>>479464
Mera shrugs. "I always feel out of place in town."
Her counterpart suggests, "Why not see a show or visit the temple?"
>>479465
Scanning the side of the boardwalk, you locate an area you can safely drop down to.
>>479466
"It's a secret to everybody! Now focus on feeling good!"
She jumps up on your back and massages you with all four hooves. It's surprisingly pleasant.
>>479472
She gives you a smile and politely bows.
>>479474
Sateo is jumping off the boardwalk. Felfire is heading into a nearby bar.
You order the strongest, darkest, cheapest beer they've got.
"I do. Funny lookin' wings you got there. Got any interesting stories for me?"
>>479463
Dealer's choice.
>>479464
Mera shrugs. "I always feel out of place in town."
Her counterpart suggests, "Why not see a show or visit the temple?"
>>479465
Scanning the side of the boardwalk, you locate an area you can safely drop down to.
>>479466
"It's a secret to everybody! Now focus on feeling good!"
She jumps up on your back and massages you with all four hooves. It's surprisingly pleasant.
>>479472
She gives you a smile and politely bows.
>>479474
Sateo is jumping off the boardwalk. Felfire is heading into a nearby bar.
>>479664
"Hm? Well, if it's urgent, we could duck into this bar, or that alleyway. Or if it can wait, we could just head back to the servants' quarters. There's also the sewers under the city – no one spends time down there due to the stench."
>>479661
The lot of you head up into the third tier and approach a lavish convention center. Stately marble columns flank the entrance.
"Here we are! I'm so excited!"
>>479667
She spent her entire reign in regency – assassinated before she turned sixteen.
>>479668
Back on the ships. Curry was looking for you, but you evaded him skillfully.
>>479670
She smiles. "I thought you'd have a new appreciation for the sun."
"Hm? Well, if it's urgent, we could duck into this bar, or that alleyway. Or if it can wait, we could just head back to the servants' quarters. There's also the sewers under the city – no one spends time down there due to the stench."
>>479661
The lot of you head up into the third tier and approach a lavish convention center. Stately marble columns flank the entrance.
"Here we are! I'm so excited!"
>>479667
She spent her entire reign in regency – assassinated before she turned sixteen.
>>479668
Back on the ships. Curry was looking for you, but you evaded him skillfully.
>>479670
She smiles. "I thought you'd have a new appreciation for the sun."
>>479677
"Oh, I get all kinds of stories from over there. Some true, some just stories – all worth hearing."
>>479678
She shrugs. "Suit yourself. But you might learn to like the sun!"
>>479680
It would seem so.
"So…?"
>>479682
No staff this far outside the city. Though someone probably cleans from time to time.
>>479687
"I read about it on a flier yesterday! It's a convention for Elementalists! They said it would be a serious get together, so I'm extra excited!"
>>479688
That would be the Sirocco. You head down the the room of Al-Jinn the Unscarred. Knocking on the light birch of his cabin door, it elicits a, "Yes?"
>>479689
It's not a false tunnel, just a tunnel that seems like it might be a sewer but isn't. It is large and stands before you.
"Oh, I get all kinds of stories from over there. Some true, some just stories – all worth hearing."
>>479678
She shrugs. "Suit yourself. But you might learn to like the sun!"
>>479680
It would seem so.
"So…?"
>>479682
No staff this far outside the city. Though someone probably cleans from time to time.
Captain Froststar
First Captain of the Varangian Guard>>479687
"I read about it on a flier yesterday! It's a convention for Elementalists! They said it would be a serious get together, so I'm extra excited!"
>>479688
That would be the Sirocco. You head down the the room of Al-Jinn the Unscarred. Knocking on the light birch of his cabin door, it elicits a, "Yes?"
>>479689
It's not a false tunnel, just a tunnel that seems like it might be a sewer but isn't. It is large and stands before you.
>>479693
It feels exquisite, and as they say, time flies when you're having fun. Before you know it, your time is up. You feel much more flexible and limber though!
>>479698
"Well, not a permanent one, but if you just want to see the inside of one, I'm sure I can talk to one of the stage directors. They know me."
>>479695
Slipping inside, you are surrounded nearly immediately by total darkness. You can't see anything!
>>479701
There is no temple district.
>>479702
She gives you a look of confusion. "What? Don't you remember this conversation we had about the Elements of Harmony?"
>>479705
"A storm building? I'm afraid you'd have to elaborate. I'm mostly interested in stories that are completed – for entertainment value – and stories that are relevant news – for trade value."
It feels exquisite, and as they say, time flies when you're having fun. Before you know it, your time is up. You feel much more flexible and limber though!
>>479698
"Well, not a permanent one, but if you just want to see the inside of one, I'm sure I can talk to one of the stage directors. They know me."
>>479695
Slipping inside, you are surrounded nearly immediately by total darkness. You can't see anything!
>>479701
There is no temple district.
>>479702
She gives you a look of confusion. "What? Don't you remember this conversation we had about the Elements of Harmony?"
>>479705
"A storm building? I'm afraid you'd have to elaborate. I'm mostly interested in stories that are completed – for entertainment value – and stories that are relevant news – for trade value."
>>479711
Of course. That came first.
>>479712
"A map? Where would we get one? We just arrived."
>>479713
You head up onto the second tier, the service district, where you find the opera houses. He leads you into one called St. Pete.
The ushers move to bar your entry – performance in progress – but Cast Iron smiles and waves, and they nod you through. Heading back stage, he shows you a few rooms. "Well, the stage director is probably busy, but we can duck inside."
He said duck, right?
>>479714
She laughs. "Easy mistake to make!"
>>479717
Righto. You pull it out and light it up. It's really heavy, though! You have to carry it with both arms, and even that's hardly enough. You can't swing it or anything.
Still though… squinting your eyes, you think you see a faint light in the distance. Is that the candle?
Of course. That came first.
>>479712
"A map? Where would we get one? We just arrived."
>>479713
You head up onto the second tier, the service district, where you find the opera houses. He leads you into one called St. Pete.
The ushers move to bar your entry – performance in progress – but Cast Iron smiles and waves, and they nod you through. Heading back stage, he shows you a few rooms. "Well, the stage director is probably busy, but we can duck inside."
He said duck, right?
>>479714
She laughs. "Easy mistake to make!"
>>479717
Righto. You pull it out and light it up. It's really heavy, though! You have to carry it with both arms, and even that's hardly enough. You can't swing it or anything.
Still though… squinting your eyes, you think you see a faint light in the distance. Is that the candle?
>>479724
She laughs. "This job is pretty cushy."
>>479725
You slowly work your way through the cobblestone room when – by light of the lantern – you see a HUGE skeleton. It rears up to slash you wish its enormous sword!
>>479727
She nods and you head in. This place is packed, though most tightly around four places in the room: booths for each of the elemental groups. Ponies walk freely between them, of course, but most are busy chatting or exchanging documents. There's a refreshment table at the far end of the hall. A pony walks up on stage in the middle.
"We'll be having our summoning in a few minutes, at that time, please give your attention to the stage."
Not many ponies were paying attention, but those that were don't seem too concerned, it seems everyone here is expecting it. Indeed, HP confirms this when she remarks,
"Whew! We're not too late! Wanna look around?"
>>479730
You head down to the market and find a cartographer's booth.
>>479732
Cast Iron sounds a little surprised. "Ha, this must be a luxury dressing room or something. I've never seen one that has a bed in it before. Wow, that looks comfy. I guess this is for long term performers, and I was always a free agent. Man, they get locks on their doors? I wish I got this kind of treatment!"
>>479733
"Oh? Go on, if it's a good tale."
>>479735
They're most famous as the Empress – or Emperor – 's royal elite guard. With no ties to the local political scene, they were used with excruciating precision to put down rebellions and turn wars throughout the Empire. They were traditionally all northern ponies – crystalline. Today, of course, they're mostly ornamental.
>>479739
You remember her mentioning a massage parlor and ask around town until you find one where they say she's in the back room.
She laughs. "This job is pretty cushy."
>>479725
You slowly work your way through the cobblestone room when – by light of the lantern – you see a HUGE skeleton. It rears up to slash you wish its enormous sword!
>>479727
She nods and you head in. This place is packed, though most tightly around four places in the room: booths for each of the elemental groups. Ponies walk freely between them, of course, but most are busy chatting or exchanging documents. There's a refreshment table at the far end of the hall. A pony walks up on stage in the middle.
"We'll be having our summoning in a few minutes, at that time, please give your attention to the stage."
Not many ponies were paying attention, but those that were don't seem too concerned, it seems everyone here is expecting it. Indeed, HP confirms this when she remarks,
"Whew! We're not too late! Wanna look around?"
>>479730
You head down to the market and find a cartographer's booth.
>>479732
Cast Iron sounds a little surprised. "Ha, this must be a luxury dressing room or something. I've never seen one that has a bed in it before. Wow, that looks comfy. I guess this is for long term performers, and I was always a free agent. Man, they get locks on their doors? I wish I got this kind of treatment!"
>>479733
"Oh? Go on, if it's a good tale."
>>479735
They're most famous as the Empress – or Emperor – 's royal elite guard. With no ties to the local political scene, they were used with excruciating precision to put down rebellions and turn wars throughout the Empire. They were traditionally all northern ponies – crystalline. Today, of course, they're mostly ornamental.
>>479739
You remember her mentioning a massage parlor and ask around town until you find one where they say she's in the back room.
>>479745
Put up a grin and lean forward.
"So, we were at sea, high off the shores of Autumnsreach, all quiet on deck, and a strong wind was moving us forward.
When, all of a sudden, the very water becomes as dark as my shadows, here, and the ship is rocked violently, but in the distance, there are no waves to be seen.
Quick as thunder, below us zips the imposing figure of a sea dragon!
And I'm serious when I say it wasn't even as big as a ship, no.
Double the size!
But that's not all. The dragon, you see, was hunting in pack with sea ponies!"
Put up a grin and lean forward.
"So, we were at sea, high off the shores of Autumnsreach, all quiet on deck, and a strong wind was moving us forward.
When, all of a sudden, the very water becomes as dark as my shadows, here, and the ship is rocked violently, but in the distance, there are no waves to be seen.
Quick as thunder, below us zips the imposing figure of a sea dragon!
And I'm serious when I say it wasn't even as big as a ship, no.
Double the size!
But that's not all. The dragon, you see, was hunting in pack with sea ponies!"
>>479749
>>479746
>>479748
"Map of roads? Good deal for you, just thirty bits."
>>479751
You try to roll out of the way, but get bashed against the wall by the flat of the blade. AAAAAAAA.
Rasputin is cawing like mad and fluttering about, trying to claw out its nonexistent eyes.
0/5 hits
>>479749
She chuckles. "Oh, perhaps when I was a filly."
>>479752
She shakes her head and smiles. "I just want to watch, I don't expect it to work. They thought that maybe if they gather a bunch of Elementalists together they could cause the last element to appear. You know – the five gather, the sixth appears? I don't think you can make it happen. The Avatars have to be chosen, because of a time of crisis!"
>>479753
"Hm?"
>>479756
"Impressive. I've heard of those little monsters before. Didn't know they hunt with dragons."
>>479746
>>479748
"Map of roads? Good deal for you, just thirty bits."
>>479751
You try to roll out of the way, but get bashed against the wall by the flat of the blade. AAAAAAAA.
Rasputin is cawing like mad and fluttering about, trying to claw out its nonexistent eyes.
0/5 hits
>>479749
She chuckles. "Oh, perhaps when I was a filly."
>>479752
She shakes her head and smiles. "I just want to watch, I don't expect it to work. They thought that maybe if they gather a bunch of Elementalists together they could cause the last element to appear. You know – the five gather, the sixth appears? I don't think you can make it happen. The Avatars have to be chosen, because of a time of crisis!"
>>479753
"Hm?"
>>479756
"Impressive. I've heard of those little monsters before. Didn't know they hunt with dragons."
>>479759
"Not anymore they don't."
Chug down some of the beer and put the glass down with a heavy stomp.
"They have us surrounded, one of the fuckers even jumps me as soon as he leaves the water, sinking his razor sharp teeth into my neck!
But I thugh, and I fight, and rolling over crush the head of that monster.
Though little bastard didn't even kick it.
Take it from me, if you need to kill a seapony, smash his hed twice, not once."
"Not anymore they don't."
Chug down some of the beer and put the glass down with a heavy stomp.
"They have us surrounded, one of the fuckers even jumps me as soon as he leaves the water, sinking his razor sharp teeth into my neck!
But I thugh, and I fight, and rolling over crush the head of that monster.
Though little bastard didn't even kick it.
Take it from me, if you need to kill a seapony, smash his hed twice, not once."
>>479759
"Over the years I've seen plenty of interesting individuals, but none quite like you. And your remarkable figure has got me rather distracted. So now that fortune has graced us with this most luxurious and private room - would you terribly mind locking the door and getting into bed with me so we can get back to business shape?"
"Over the years I've seen plenty of interesting individuals, but none quite like you. And your remarkable figure has got me rather distracted. So now that fortune has graced us with this most luxurious and private room - would you terribly mind locking the door and getting into bed with me so we can get back to business shape?"
>>479762
She bumps flanks perpendicularly with you with a smile. "I'd be more worried about the fillies."
There are tables and materials out for Honesty, Loyalty, Generosity, and Kindness. This place is busy!
HP seems distressed.
>>479763
"Meet me in the middle, twenty five."
>>479765
You roll through its legs, striking one as you go. It is sent off balance as you get up.
>>479768
"Do continue."
>>479771
He gives you a very distressed look. "Wow… I thought you wanted to hire me because you had heard of my talents… All this time you just wanted me because of my looks."
He looks very angry – and then very sad. "Just… get out."
He pushes you out of the room and closes the door.
She bumps flanks perpendicularly with you with a smile. "I'd be more worried about the fillies."
There are tables and materials out for Honesty, Loyalty, Generosity, and Kindness. This place is busy!
HP seems distressed.
>>479763
"Meet me in the middle, twenty five."
>>479765
You roll through its legs, striking one as you go. It is sent off balance as you get up.
>>479768
"Do continue."
>>479771
He gives you a very distressed look. "Wow… I thought you wanted to hire me because you had heard of my talents… All this time you just wanted me because of my looks."
He looks very angry – and then very sad. "Just… get out."
He pushes you out of the room and closes the door.
>>479774
"So.
They have the jump on us. More than a few dozen sea ponies amidst our ships, a sea serpent on the horizon, and cannonballs just shrug off him."
Smirk.
"And what do our crewmates do?
Pick up a harpoon, dive into the water and chase all the way to the sea dragon.
Now, we are all though motherfuckers and the battle on the ship is dying down, but I know just like you do, that there is no way a few ponies are gonna last against a fucking sea dragon bigger than a ship, right?"
"So.
They have the jump on us. More than a few dozen sea ponies amidst our ships, a sea serpent on the horizon, and cannonballs just shrug off him."
Smirk.
"And what do our crewmates do?
Pick up a harpoon, dive into the water and chase all the way to the sea dragon.
Now, we are all though motherfuckers and the battle on the ship is dying down, but I know just like you do, that there is no way a few ponies are gonna last against a fucking sea dragon bigger than a ship, right?"
>>479782
"One would think."
>>479783
Righto.
"There might be temples here even if there isn't a temple district."
>>479786
None anywhere nearby. In fact, most of these pones look pretty serious, all dolled up for the meeting in suits and nice dresses.
She frowns. "I just wanted to talk to other followers of Laughter. But… surely I'll see at least one when they try to summon in a few minutes, so let's just wait."
"One would think."
>>479783
Righto.
"There might be temples here even if there isn't a temple district."
>>479786
None anywhere nearby. In fact, most of these pones look pretty serious, all dolled up for the meeting in suits and nice dresses.
She frowns. "I just wanted to talk to other followers of Laughter. But… surely I'll see at least one when they try to summon in a few minutes, so let's just wait."
>>479774
I'll just stand outside the door then, give enough of a beat for silence to land, and see if a bit of song would make my point more eloquently.
"I asked not for beauty
I asked only for a song
I asked not for love
I hope you did not see it wrong
I understand how this must sound
An old pony's begging song
But hear me out and reconsider
Lest this really is so long
When I first met you I heard but a voice
A voice unlike any other
And at that time I made my choice
That it was worth the bother
I did not ask for a beauty
Only another voice to join my song
But fate is know for its cruelty
So I came off as only wanting your dong
I ask now for just one thing
Keep the door closed if you must
But please join my song at least one time
And prove my hope was not all a bust"
C'mon you moody bastard… sing with me…
'1d10'
Roll #1 8 = 8
I'll just stand outside the door then, give enough of a beat for silence to land, and see if a bit of song would make my point more eloquently.
"I asked not for beauty
I asked only for a song
I asked not for love
I hope you did not see it wrong
I understand how this must sound
An old pony's begging song
But hear me out and reconsider
Lest this really is so long
When I first met you I heard but a voice
A voice unlike any other
And at that time I made my choice
That it was worth the bother
I did not ask for a beauty
Only another voice to join my song
But fate is know for its cruelty
So I came off as only wanting your dong
I ask now for just one thing
Keep the door closed if you must
But please join my song at least one time
And prove my hope was not all a bust"
C'mon you moody bastard… sing with me…
'1d10'
Roll #1 8 = 8
>>479796
"So I fly to the front of the ship, still fighting off the hordes of fish-faces, as my crewmates dig deep into their skulls with their irons.
I can't remember how many bodies there were, but there were a lot."
Grin.
"The three ponies up ahead are almost dead. But I have an ace up my wings now.
We tie them all together, the sea ponies, you should have seen it. A goddamn necklace.
And then our commander takes the helm, and in the most daring of manouvers, we are taken right beside the monster.
A quick flyby made by ponies stronger than I, and the string of dead bodies is inside the monster.
We are feeding him his own masters."
Smirk and bring my hooves together, then moving them apart violently.
"Boom!
Blown up from the inside.
It didn't have a chance."
"So I fly to the front of the ship, still fighting off the hordes of fish-faces, as my crewmates dig deep into their skulls with their irons.
I can't remember how many bodies there were, but there were a lot."
Grin.
"The three ponies up ahead are almost dead. But I have an ace up my wings now.
We tie them all together, the sea ponies, you should have seen it. A goddamn necklace.
And then our commander takes the helm, and in the most daring of manouvers, we are taken right beside the monster.
A quick flyby made by ponies stronger than I, and the string of dead bodies is inside the monster.
We are feeding him his own masters."
Smirk and bring my hooves together, then moving them apart violently.
"Boom!
Blown up from the inside.
It didn't have a chance."
>>479797
He takes another swing at you, and you nearly lose your head, but you're saved by Ras distracting him by screeching in his face.
>>479799
He looks like a general.
>>479802
You mill about for a few minutes until the ponies start to gather on the stage. "Over the last few hours, we have pain-stakingly selected from among you those we believe are the most fulfilling of the qualities of the Elements – but don't despair that you were not chosen! We will rotate through every pony until we summon the final element! The more scholarly among you may know this element is Magic, and to that end, I myself a mage will be waiting on stage to be imbued with the power of the Avatar of Magic!"
That sounds dumb. Who ever heard of Magic having anything to do with Harmony or Friendship?
>>479803
"Drink with me, to days gone by.
Sing with me, the songs, we knew.
Here's to witty songs that fed our smarts,
Here's to pretty songs that fed our hearts.
Drink with me, to days gone by.
Can it be, you fear to die?
Will the world remember you when you fall?
Can it be your death means nothing at all?
Is your life just one life?"
>>479811
"So you're a necromancer."
>>479816
There's a major non-denominational temple here on the map, and a few smaller ones for different sects. Perhaps the largest of the individuals is marked: Finality.
He takes another swing at you, and you nearly lose your head, but you're saved by Ras distracting him by screeching in his face.
>>479799
Davos VIII
Took back the Pastureami lands for the Trontantine Empire from the Oddomane Hordes.He looks like a general.
>>479802
You mill about for a few minutes until the ponies start to gather on the stage. "Over the last few hours, we have pain-stakingly selected from among you those we believe are the most fulfilling of the qualities of the Elements – but don't despair that you were not chosen! We will rotate through every pony until we summon the final element! The more scholarly among you may know this element is Magic, and to that end, I myself a mage will be waiting on stage to be imbued with the power of the Avatar of Magic!"
That sounds dumb. Who ever heard of Magic having anything to do with Harmony or Friendship?
>>479803
"Drink with me, to days gone by.
Sing with me, the songs, we knew.
Here's to witty songs that fed our smarts,
Here's to pretty songs that fed our hearts.
Drink with me, to days gone by.
Can it be, you fear to die?
Will the world remember you when you fall?
Can it be your death means nothing at all?
Is your life just one life?"
>>479811
"So you're a necromancer."
>>479816
There's a major non-denominational temple here on the map, and a few smaller ones for different sects. Perhaps the largest of the individuals is marked: Finality.
>>479819
"Our voices chime as those heroes
A harmony not unlike love
Let all who oppose learn to fear us
For united we are strong
The greatest instrument of all
Is a voice that rings pure
Be that voice great or small
It can come join my song
So I ask again, Cast Iron
Will your voice join my song
Can we put this one fault behind us
If I admit I was wrong?"
"Our voices chime as those heroes
A harmony not unlike love
Let all who oppose learn to fear us
For united we are strong
The greatest instrument of all
Is a voice that rings pure
Be that voice great or small
It can come join my song
So I ask again, Cast Iron
Will your voice join my song
Can we put this one fault behind us
If I admit I was wrong?"
>>479823
He shrugs. "How'd you get them to blow up with the gunpowder wet?"
>>479824
No moon temples that are marked on the map.
>>479827
They cycle through ponies, four at a time on the stage with the speaker in the middle. HP looks really weird-ed out. Eventually, she can't take it anymore and bounds up and onto the stage.
"Hey! This is all wrong! You're taking things way to seriously! All this ritual and ceremony… trying to force an appearance – it's not what the Elements of Harmony are about! They're about being harmonious all the time in your life, not just on occasion to the sound of magic words!"
There's silence, then the speaker smirks. "Oh. I get what this is about. You're one of those ridiculous little Laughter followers. The butt of the Elements' Greatest Joke."
Laughter – the cruel kind – fills the hall, though the ponies up on stage aside from the Speaker aren't really getting into it. At least the Kindness pony seems genuinely kind.
What do?
>>479828
He takes a wide swipe and you roll out of the way, but scuff yourself up. You do notice that he looks pretty big and slow.
>>479832
Market! You go there.
>>479837
You head back to the market. Not knowing what goes in the Commander's Quarters, you just scope out random furniture. Emrille is here, with little Summer and Tela.
>>479839
You hear a sigh from inside, and the door opens. "Alright, alright… To be honest, I wasn't upset about, y'know… being intimate. That doesn't really stimulate me at all, but it's not like it makes me angry either. I have no… draw to it. It's just… I've worked for a lot of ponies that just want me as arm candy because, well… I'm not afraid to admit that I have really good looks."
>>479841
You feel him.
He shrugs. "How'd you get them to blow up with the gunpowder wet?"
>>479824
No moon temples that are marked on the map.
>>479827
They cycle through ponies, four at a time on the stage with the speaker in the middle. HP looks really weird-ed out. Eventually, she can't take it anymore and bounds up and onto the stage.
"Hey! This is all wrong! You're taking things way to seriously! All this ritual and ceremony… trying to force an appearance – it's not what the Elements of Harmony are about! They're about being harmonious all the time in your life, not just on occasion to the sound of magic words!"
There's silence, then the speaker smirks. "Oh. I get what this is about. You're one of those ridiculous little Laughter followers. The butt of the Elements' Greatest Joke."
Laughter – the cruel kind – fills the hall, though the ponies up on stage aside from the Speaker aren't really getting into it. At least the Kindness pony seems genuinely kind.
What do?
>>479828
He takes a wide swipe and you roll out of the way, but scuff yourself up. You do notice that he looks pretty big and slow.
>>479832
Market! You go there.
>>479837
You head back to the market. Not knowing what goes in the Commander's Quarters, you just scope out random furniture. Emrille is here, with little Summer and Tela.
>>479839
You hear a sigh from inside, and the door opens. "Alright, alright… To be honest, I wasn't upset about, y'know… being intimate. That doesn't really stimulate me at all, but it's not like it makes me angry either. I have no… draw to it. It's just… I've worked for a lot of ponies that just want me as arm candy because, well… I'm not afraid to admit that I have really good looks."
>>479841
You feel him.
>>479852
You see some crackpot inventions, Friesian Cross – Commander of the Hourglass, some free sample potions, magic artifacts, animals, etc.
>>479853
He smacks you down against the wall again.
0/5 hits
You notice that he walks very slowly because of his huge sword.
>>479856
Your map gets blown from your grasp.
>>479857
He shrugs. "At least I know you're in it for the music. The rest is just… extra."
You see some crackpot inventions, Friesian Cross – Commander of the Hourglass, some free sample potions, magic artifacts, animals, etc.
>>479853
He smacks you down against the wall again.
0/5 hits
You notice that he walks very slowly because of his huge sword.
>>479856
Your map gets blown from your grasp.
>>479857
He shrugs. "At least I know you're in it for the music. The rest is just… extra."
>>479863
"What did the explosion look like?"
>>479864
AAAAAAAAAA
Skylight catches it for you. "Careful, little brother!"
>>479865
You hork the nearest bottle of sample. It tastes good! No obvious changes, though.
>>479866
You land on the stage and there is a huge, climatic explosion as the temple is rocked. Ponies scream and panic, running side to side. Light envelops the stage, and when you pull yourself together, you're wearing a necklace inset with a large gemstone. Already, most of the hall has cleared as ponies flee. The ceiling does not look like what you'd describe as… stable.
Looking between you, the Speaker is completely dumbfounded. "You– but– and HER? That JOKE? And- and… what about me? THEN WHO IS THE ELEMENT OF MAGIC?"
He turns, and spots an earth pony standing alone, off to the side who hasn't left, wearing a similar necklace. "HER? AN EARTH PONY? THIS IS MADNESS! INSANITY! I REFUSE TO BE PARTY TO IT!"
HP adds, "Uh… I hate to break all this up, but we need to get going!"
Rumble, rumble. This place won't be up much longer.
>>479869
He smiles weakly. "Well, maybe if you get to know me better. I just.. don't have any drive either way as a result of my condition."
>>479870
You smack him as you roll back to your paws once again. You get the feeling that he would not be able to keep up with you if you were to go back to the market, buy a blackboard, get a team of workers to lower it down here, set it up, and leave you to work on advanced trigonometry and calculus as he works his way over a few feet out of reach
"What did the explosion look like?"
>>479864
AAAAAAAAAA
Skylight catches it for you. "Careful, little brother!"
>>479865
You hork the nearest bottle of sample. It tastes good! No obvious changes, though.
>>479866
You land on the stage and there is a huge, climatic explosion as the temple is rocked. Ponies scream and panic, running side to side. Light envelops the stage, and when you pull yourself together, you're wearing a necklace inset with a large gemstone. Already, most of the hall has cleared as ponies flee. The ceiling does not look like what you'd describe as… stable.
Looking between you, the Speaker is completely dumbfounded. "You– but– and HER? That JOKE? And- and… what about me? THEN WHO IS THE ELEMENT OF MAGIC?"
He turns, and spots an earth pony standing alone, off to the side who hasn't left, wearing a similar necklace. "HER? AN EARTH PONY? THIS IS MADNESS! INSANITY! I REFUSE TO BE PARTY TO IT!"
HP adds, "Uh… I hate to break all this up, but we need to get going!"
Rumble, rumble. This place won't be up much longer.
>>479869
He smiles weakly. "Well, maybe if you get to know me better. I just.. don't have any drive either way as a result of my condition."
>>479870
You smack him as you roll back to your paws once again. You get the feeling that he would not be able to keep up with you if you were to go back to the market, buy a blackboard, get a team of workers to lower it down here, set it up, and leave you to work on advanced trigonometry and calculus as he works his way over a few feet out of reach
>>479910
"But then… I can't help but wonder which would truly make you happier in the long run. Guess we won't know unless we end up finding a very specific kind of temporary magic or something. And what are the odds of that…"
Do I still need to get my boner waxed or did this scene kill the mood for me?
'1d10'
Roll #1 9 = 9
"But then… I can't help but wonder which would truly make you happier in the long run. Guess we won't know unless we end up finding a very specific kind of temporary magic or something. And what are the odds of that…"
Do I still need to get my boner waxed or did this scene kill the mood for me?
'1d10'
Roll #1 9 = 9
>>479912
You walk past the giant skeleton and to the lantern down at the end of the tunnel, where a package is waiting.
>>479914
"So what happened to your friends that swam over next to him? Dead? And the ship – you ran it up right next to him and he was following it closely to eat each body. Did it sink?"
>>479915
Emrille, Tela, Summer, and Friesian are nearby.
>>479917
You flee the temple just as it collapses – Indiana Jones style.
The quiet earth pony taps you on the shoulder and points to the group of all the other pones wearing necklaces. "I have a place we can go… if you want."
HP waves at you cheerfully from the group. "Come on, Light!"
Huh. That must be the first time she's called you by your first name.
>>479921
Oh yeah, total boner kill.
You walk past the giant skeleton and to the lantern down at the end of the tunnel, where a package is waiting.
>>479914
"So what happened to your friends that swam over next to him? Dead? And the ship – you ran it up right next to him and he was following it closely to eat each body. Did it sink?"
>>479915
Emrille, Tela, Summer, and Friesian are nearby.
>>479917
You flee the temple just as it collapses – Indiana Jones style.
The quiet earth pony taps you on the shoulder and points to the group of all the other pones wearing necklaces. "I have a place we can go… if you want."
HP waves at you cheerfully from the group. "Come on, Light!"
Huh. That must be the first time she's called you by your first name.
>>479921
Oh yeah, total boner kill.
>>479925
You'd think singing with a beautiful stallion would do the opposite.
I must be getting old. Or too many flashbacks when I look at him. Kinda gives context to things… and shows how some just find the best in everything.
Well, that was thirty years ago and now is now.
…can I hear any other remarkable voices around? '1d10'
Roll #1 3 = 3
You'd think singing with a beautiful stallion would do the opposite.
I must be getting old. Or too many flashbacks when I look at him. Kinda gives context to things… and shows how some just find the best in everything.
Well, that was thirty years ago and now is now.
…can I hear any other remarkable voices around? '1d10'
Roll #1 3 = 3
>>479925
"Yeah. We lost more than a few ponies that day.
But the ship…"
Take the empty mug.
"This is the dragon."
Turn the handle towards me.
"And it's looking this way."
Then, move the right hoof around the mug.
"This is the pathc we took.
So when he blew up, the soft part, right under his neck, that gave up first, and the explosion was channeled to our back.
But fuck that, our ship has seen dozen times worse."
Rattle the mug, asking for a refill.
"Yeah. We lost more than a few ponies that day.
But the ship…"
Take the empty mug.
"This is the dragon."
Turn the handle towards me.
"And it's looking this way."
Then, move the right hoof around the mug.
"This is the pathc we took.
So when he blew up, the soft part, right under his neck, that gave up first, and the explosion was channeled to our back.
But fuck that, our ship has seen dozen times worse."
Rattle the mug, asking for a refill.
>>479930
You flee the giant skeleton. You're just relieved it wasn't a wheel skeleton!
>>479931
You all head over.
>>479932
Rosemary takes the kids back to the ship.
She leads you back up winding pathways to the gate to the fourth tier. The guards salute her as the group approaches. "Princess Lavinia, you return."
She nods and you proceed into the palace district.
>>479933
He nods. "Just a sample. I'd put myself out of business otherwise!"
>>479937
You can't hear anything over that loud performance going on. Wait – it's the cadenza. You hear the most beautiful female (read: not male or castrato) voice you've ever heard on stage!
>>479939
He nods along. "Sure, sure. Well, it's an entertaining story either way. Well, what do you want to know?"
You flee the giant skeleton. You're just relieved it wasn't a wheel skeleton!
>>479931
You all head over.
>>479932
Rosemary takes the kids back to the ship.
She leads you back up winding pathways to the gate to the fourth tier. The guards salute her as the group approaches. "Princess Lavinia, you return."
She nods and you proceed into the palace district.
>>479933
He nods. "Just a sample. I'd put myself out of business otherwise!"
>>479937
You can't hear anything over that loud performance going on. Wait – it's the cadenza. You hear the most beautiful female (read: not male or castrato) voice you've ever heard on stage!
>>479939
He nods along. "Sure, sure. Well, it's an entertaining story either way. Well, what do you want to know?"
>>479952
She laughs. "Don't regard me too regally. There's about a hundred princess and princesses, and I'm too old to inherit the throne unless a terrible plague overtakes the city or something. Come, I'll take you to my study."
She leads you into the nearest palace – that's right, this whole district is full of palaces. From there, into a great library, where she locks the door.
"Whew! Some afternoon that was, right?"
The other ponies still look pretty bewildered, but HP chimes in. "WOW! This is GREAT! Amazing! So what even HAPPENED? And when can we THROW A PARTY to CELEBRATE?"
>>479955
"Yeah, sure. Just through here…"
You swing around to the rear, but by the time you get around, the cadenza is over and the song continues.
>>479957
"I could tell you one thousand and one stories about this city, and each one would take all night."
>>479959
"Hey, you just grabbed sample, could have asked before getting upset!"
She laughs. "Don't regard me too regally. There's about a hundred princess and princesses, and I'm too old to inherit the throne unless a terrible plague overtakes the city or something. Come, I'll take you to my study."
She leads you into the nearest palace – that's right, this whole district is full of palaces. From there, into a great library, where she locks the door.
"Whew! Some afternoon that was, right?"
The other ponies still look pretty bewildered, but HP chimes in. "WOW! This is GREAT! Amazing! So what even HAPPENED? And when can we THROW A PARTY to CELEBRATE?"
>>479955
"Yeah, sure. Just through here…"
You swing around to the rear, but by the time you get around, the cadenza is over and the song continues.
>>479957
"I could tell you one thousand and one stories about this city, and each one would take all night."
>>479959
"Hey, you just grabbed sample, could have asked before getting upset!"
>>479963
"Miss Emrille is looking for a few new mercs to hire, but it seems she has her hooves full with the little one if you want to go looking about with me."
>>479965
"It says free sample, not alchemy practice potions. But it might be fun, feel like I can hear and smell better than I could before, so I won't say anything else."
"Miss Emrille is looking for a few new mercs to hire, but it seems she has her hooves full with the little one if you want to go looking about with me."
>>479965
"It says free sample, not alchemy practice potions. But it might be fun, feel like I can hear and smell better than I could before, so I won't say anything else."
>>479971
"I shouldn't leave miss Seas unattended. Emrille isn't the most… child-friendly chaperone."
I'll look to Mera.
>>479965
"Mera, if we can't get miss Seas to come with us, could I bother you to stay behind and keep an eye on her? At least until I can find her mother and get her to rejoin her daughter?"
"I shouldn't leave miss Seas unattended. Emrille isn't the most… child-friendly chaperone."
I'll look to Mera.
>>479965
"Mera, if we can't get miss Seas to come with us, could I bother you to stay behind and keep an eye on her? At least until I can find her mother and get her to rejoin her daughter?"
>>479968
Lavinia levitates over a book and opens it, pointing to a page. "I believe that WE six have been chosen as the legendary Elements of Harmony – to stop a crisis already in progress. It's the whole reason I attended at all. I wanted to give the six my resources, not expecting to be chosen myself, since I never aligned with any of the Five."
HP cheers, though the others look more grave about things.
She points between three ponies that were on the stage: "Honesty. Kindness. Generosity."
To HP: "Laughter."
To you: "Loyalty."
To herself: "Magic. So… will you join me?"
She looks to you. "I know I can count on your help, Loyalty. Can I get your real name, though?"
>>479971
He shrugs.
>>479973
"Based on the sound of it, it is probably the hunchbacked pony. She's a noblepony who has never seen her husband. It was a marriage of convenience between their two families, but she is legendarily ugly in spite of her voice. She wears a veil while she performs! Her name is Lady Boil."
>>479974
"Not a spirit. The spirit. The Spirit of the Operating Theater."
>>479978
"Sure!"
Lavinia levitates over a book and opens it, pointing to a page. "I believe that WE six have been chosen as the legendary Elements of Harmony – to stop a crisis already in progress. It's the whole reason I attended at all. I wanted to give the six my resources, not expecting to be chosen myself, since I never aligned with any of the Five."
HP cheers, though the others look more grave about things.
She points between three ponies that were on the stage: "Honesty. Kindness. Generosity."
To HP: "Laughter."
To you: "Loyalty."
To herself: "Magic. So… will you join me?"
She looks to you. "I know I can count on your help, Loyalty. Can I get your real name, though?"
>>479971
He shrugs.
>>479973
"Based on the sound of it, it is probably the hunchbacked pony. She's a noblepony who has never seen her husband. It was a marriage of convenience between their two families, but she is legendarily ugly in spite of her voice. She wears a veil while she performs! Her name is Lady Boil."
>>479974
"Not a spirit. The spirit. The Spirit of the Operating Theater."
>>479978
"Sure!"
>>479985
"Supposedly one of the best doctors to ever live, when the plague broke out, he stayed behind to continue operating on his patients. Well, legend has it that one of his patients transmitted him the plague, and he died while in surgery, giving the world's highest mortality rate for a single person surgery: 200%. They say that to this day, he still haunts the old Medical Fort on the second level. They used to do tours and seances and stuff, but the R-N-S don't like that one bit, so it got shut down."
>>479987
It's pretty blocky and well stuffed. You'll have to rip in to figure out what's inside.
>>479988
"I heard that the freelancer Notorious TLI was looking for something a little mobile. He's a little unusual but has a good voice. Then… well, he's positively ancient now, so he may not want to uproot, but Brother Gregory practically invented modern chanting. Aside from that… Bolter Caff, maybe? I always thought she was about to split at any minute."
>>479991
The Apothecary or the Furniture Store?
>>479989
She chimes in after you, "And I'm Happy Puzzle!"
"Butterscotch Cloud."
"I'm Spook."
"Sudden Smile!"
"And of course, you all know me, but I'll just say again, Lavinia Ambercharge. Listen – I think I know why we've been chosen. All we have to do is help end this threat, and we can go back to our normal lives – though, if you want, I'm happy to let you stay here in the palace. I've received terrible news about something on the horizon – apparently the Cult of Finality has returned, and they're trying to bring back the ancient dread-ancestor of all gelatinous cubes – The Smooze."
"Supposedly one of the best doctors to ever live, when the plague broke out, he stayed behind to continue operating on his patients. Well, legend has it that one of his patients transmitted him the plague, and he died while in surgery, giving the world's highest mortality rate for a single person surgery: 200%. They say that to this day, he still haunts the old Medical Fort on the second level. They used to do tours and seances and stuff, but the R-N-S don't like that one bit, so it got shut down."
>>479987
It's pretty blocky and well stuffed. You'll have to rip in to figure out what's inside.
>>479988
"I heard that the freelancer Notorious TLI was looking for something a little mobile. He's a little unusual but has a good voice. Then… well, he's positively ancient now, so he may not want to uproot, but Brother Gregory practically invented modern chanting. Aside from that… Bolter Caff, maybe? I always thought she was about to split at any minute."
>>479991
The Apothecary or the Furniture Store?
>>479989
She chimes in after you, "And I'm Happy Puzzle!"
"Butterscotch Cloud."
"I'm Spook."
"Sudden Smile!"
"And of course, you all know me, but I'll just say again, Lavinia Ambercharge. Listen – I think I know why we've been chosen. All we have to do is help end this threat, and we can go back to our normal lives – though, if you want, I'm happy to let you stay here in the palace. I've received terrible news about something on the horizon – apparently the Cult of Finality has returned, and they're trying to bring back the ancient dread-ancestor of all gelatinous cubes – The Smooze."
>>480017
"An ancient demon – if you've ever come into contact with a gelatinous cube, imagine that, but instead of a cube, a wave that covers all land, unbound by sea or continent, until the world is consumed."
>>480019
"Well, employed by the government, anyway."
>>480023
They have all kinds of different potions. Some are reflective, some are bubbly, others swirl, and some smoke! One whispers sweet nothings, and another growls at you.
"You can have one free sample of each! After that, you have to pay. Also I have antidotes if you are impatient!"
>>480024
You head there without conflict.
>>480026
In the market.
>>480027
"Well, Brother Gregory and Lady Boil are here, obviously. Bolter Caff and Notorious TLI are both freelance, so we'd have to go to basically all of the opera houses to be certain."
"An ancient demon – if you've ever come into contact with a gelatinous cube, imagine that, but instead of a cube, a wave that covers all land, unbound by sea or continent, until the world is consumed."
>>480019
"Well, employed by the government, anyway."
>>480023
They have all kinds of different potions. Some are reflective, some are bubbly, others swirl, and some smoke! One whispers sweet nothings, and another growls at you.
"You can have one free sample of each! After that, you have to pay. Also I have antidotes if you are impatient!"
>>480024
You head there without conflict.
>>480026
In the market.
>>480027
"Well, Brother Gregory and Lady Boil are here, obviously. Bolter Caff and Notorious TLI are both freelance, so we'd have to go to basically all of the opera houses to be certain."
>>480025
I frown even deeper.
"No, you're just being unreasonable! You're just like my momma!"
>>480021
"You just… you're just concerned that I'm too weak to be a mercenary, aren't you? I'm not! I'll… I'll go and find a job and do it all by myself and everything! Just watch me!"
I run off deeper into town, looking for… wherever they give out mercenary work! That's a specific place, right?
'1d10'
Roll #1 3 = 3
I frown even deeper.
"No, you're just being unreasonable! You're just like my momma!"
>>480021
"You just… you're just concerned that I'm too weak to be a mercenary, aren't you? I'm not! I'll… I'll go and find a job and do it all by myself and everything! Just watch me!"
I run off deeper into town, looking for… wherever they give out mercenary work! That's a specific place, right?
'1d10'
Roll #1 3 = 3
>>480034
Yes. Very. Well, not the packaging. Whatever is inside.
>>480037
Well, there's Lady Boil on stage.
>>480038
"For many centuries."
>>480039
She nods. "So you understand the gravity of the situation. I had thought the Cult of Finality was all wiped out now."
The one identifying a Spook nods. "I've had a run in with them. They're insane."
>>480041
>>480043
You feel young and virile once again. Your muscles are taut, your hair is its natural color once again, and you feel strong as an ox! Plus all those ugly scars from days long past have disappeared. You look like quite the charmer.
Yes. Very. Well, not the packaging. Whatever is inside.
>>480037
Well, there's Lady Boil on stage.
>>480038
"For many centuries."
>>480039
She nods. "So you understand the gravity of the situation. I had thought the Cult of Finality was all wiped out now."
The one identifying a Spook nods. "I've had a run in with them. They're insane."
>>480041
>>480043
You feel young and virile once again. Your muscles are taut, your hair is its natural color once again, and you feel strong as an ox! Plus all those ugly scars from days long past have disappeared. You look like quite the charmer.
>>480050
"Oh, they're government sponsored. They have some pull."
>>480051
It's hard to pick out of a choral group, though you think you hear it in there somewhere. They're finishing up now, you can feel the crescendo building: it's palpable.
>>480035
You take off and duck into the first "tough" place you see. Inside a pony is speaking into a… pole. You see a sign that urges quiet.
>>480053
"That's the trouble. If we knew, we might be able to find them."
Spook speaks up again: "They're hiding in the sewers."
Butterscotch: "I'm not looking forward to that at all!"
>>480055
In your vision, it is him. You have therock spirit. He appears in the mirror.
>>480057
You see nothing in the mirror.
>>480056
"Mysteriously Handsome Potions, very cheap, twenty bits."
>>480059
Feels… evil.
You head on back. You see a bunch of crewmembers here, of course. Maybe you could get a loan out of one of them.
"Oh, they're government sponsored. They have some pull."
>>480051
It's hard to pick out of a choral group, though you think you hear it in there somewhere. They're finishing up now, you can feel the crescendo building: it's palpable.
>>480035
You take off and duck into the first "tough" place you see. Inside a pony is speaking into a… pole. You see a sign that urges quiet.
>>480053
"That's the trouble. If we knew, we might be able to find them."
Spook speaks up again: "They're hiding in the sewers."
Butterscotch: "I'm not looking forward to that at all!"
>>480055
In your vision, it is him. You have the
>>480057
You see nothing in the mirror.
>>480056
"Mysteriously Handsome Potions, very cheap, twenty bits."
>>480059
Feels… evil.
You head on back. You see a bunch of crewmembers here, of course. Maybe you could get a loan out of one of them.
>>480061
You track her to a nearby rough looking building.
>>480062
There are no talking areas here. Well, except for the guy talking into the poll. A well dressed pony wearing some kind of ear covers waves at you from a back room.
>>480063
"No, no. They're up in the palace district. And I think that's just about enough to make us even."
You become overwhelmed by the flow of spirits and lose yourself, collapsing. You're done for the day.
>>480064
Finally, they finish. This isn't Hamburgerburg, so not a single pony claps. They take a bow anyway.
>>480065
"I know where they are." Spook speaks up again. He makes a good Element of Honesty.
"Great news!"
>>480066
Well… Curry likes you, right? But he's pretty poor. You think you see Felfire in a nearby bar. Didn't she give you money once? She's loaded.
>>480068
Yep. You hear him working in the drawing room.
You track her to a nearby rough looking building.
>>480062
There are no talking areas here. Well, except for the guy talking into the poll. A well dressed pony wearing some kind of ear covers waves at you from a back room.
>>480063
"No, no. They're up in the palace district. And I think that's just about enough to make us even."
You become overwhelmed by the flow of spirits and lose yourself, collapsing. You're done for the day.
>>480064
Finally, they finish. This isn't Hamburgerburg, so not a single pony claps. They take a bow anyway.
>>480065
"I know where they are." Spook speaks up again. He makes a good Element of Honesty.
"Great news!"
>>480066
Well… Curry likes you, right? But he's pretty poor. You think you see Felfire in a nearby bar. Didn't she give you money once? She's loaded.
>>480068
Yep. You hear him working in the drawing room.
>>480072
He puts a hoof up to his mouth and whispers, "Ssh, quiet now. We're broadcasting. Want to listen?"
He offers you a headset.
>>480077
The pony, furious, stands up pins you against the wall by the throat. "Read the sign you fucking jackass."
>>480073
You head on up to the highest tier – the palace district. There are guards at the gate.
>>480074
She looks unconfident and looks to Spook.
"They rely on the dead and magic. Up close, they're nuffin."
Butterscotch looks uncomfortable, but Smile nods. "Well, we have to do this. We're obligated to serve our peers."
>>480075
He nods "We're only loose acquaintances, though."
Approaching, he hails her. "Lady Boil, you have a new fan. Can you spare a moment?"
She approaches. Her hunchback is quite prominent, and it makes it hard for her to walk.
He puts a hoof up to his mouth and whispers, "Ssh, quiet now. We're broadcasting. Want to listen?"
He offers you a headset.
>>480077
The pony, furious, stands up pins you against the wall by the throat. "Read the sign you fucking jackass."
>>480073
You head on up to the highest tier – the palace district. There are guards at the gate.
>>480074
She looks unconfident and looks to Spook.
"They rely on the dead and magic. Up close, they're nuffin."
Butterscotch looks uncomfortable, but Smile nods. "Well, we have to do this. We're obligated to serve our peers."
>>480075
He nods "We're only loose acquaintances, though."
Approaching, he hails her. "Lady Boil, you have a new fan. Can you spare a moment?"
She approaches. Her hunchback is quite prominent, and it makes it hard for her to walk.
>>480094
You hear the voice of the pony talking into the poll. He's speaking in a foreign language, though. You understand just a little. No comprende, it's a riddle!
>>480095
"Afraid not, my friend!"
>>480096
"And who is that?"
>>480099
"Well, obviously my library and my fortune – and I have some pull with the information networks, but I'd rather not get other nobles involved."
>>480102
She offers you a hoof. "Charmed, I'm sure."
You hear the voice of the pony talking into the poll. He's speaking in a foreign language, though. You understand just a little. No comprende, it's a riddle!
>>480095
"Afraid not, my friend!"
>>480096
"And who is that?"
>>480099
"Well, obviously my library and my fortune – and I have some pull with the information networks, but I'd rather not get other nobles involved."
>>480102
She offers you a hoof. "Charmed, I'm sure."
>>480113
Lavinia nods.
Spook: "Yeah, 'course."
Sudden Smile also gives a confident nod.
Butterscotch Cloud does not look so confident in that regards, but doesn't back down, either.
HP nods cheerfully.
>>480114
Bottle get!
>>480117
"It's a prototype for delivering information magically! We're on a wavelength far from home!"
>>480118
"If you can talk Yor to let you in, go nuts."
>>480122
"Hmm…"
Roll Command.
>>480123
One of the guards laughs sarcastically. "You hear that Roc? You don't read enough. You better tell the sergeant that the recruiting standards for the guard are too low. Gotta read every book written in the empire."
'Roc' narrows his eyes though, taking it not so jokingly. "What do you mean OLD empire?"
Lavinia nods.
Spook: "Yeah, 'course."
Sudden Smile also gives a confident nod.
Butterscotch Cloud does not look so confident in that regards, but doesn't back down, either.
HP nods cheerfully.
>>480114
Bottle get!
>>480117
"It's a prototype for delivering information magically! We're on a wavelength far from home!"
>>480118
"If you can talk Yor to let you in, go nuts."
>>480122
"Hmm…"
Roll Command.
>>480123
One of the guards laughs sarcastically. "You hear that Roc? You don't read enough. You better tell the sergeant that the recruiting standards for the guard are too low. Gotta read every book written in the empire."
'Roc' narrows his eyes though, taking it not so jokingly. "What do you mean OLD empire?"
>>480129
"Are you N O C?"
>>480130
"For speed! But to tell you the truth, I'd rather be back home in Tijuana enjoying a nice grilled iguana."
>>480132
She frowns. "Hm… Well, alright. I'll give it a try. Where to?"
>>480133
You knock on the door. "Yes?"
>>480134
They nod. Lavinia takes charge once again: "Is there anything any of you need to do to prepare before we head down?"
>>480137
That day is over. You have plenty of time to do whatever you like, temple can wait.
>>480136
"You need vanity mirror. Very good for looking at self!"
"Are you N O C?"
>>480130
"For speed! But to tell you the truth, I'd rather be back home in Tijuana enjoying a nice grilled iguana."
>>480132
She frowns. "Hm… Well, alright. I'll give it a try. Where to?"
>>480133
You knock on the door. "Yes?"
>>480134
They nod. Lavinia takes charge once again: "Is there anything any of you need to do to prepare before we head down?"
>>480137
That day is over. You have plenty of time to do whatever you like, temple can wait.
>>480136
"You need vanity mirror. Very good for looking at self!"
>>480146
No time limit really. You'll be in town for days and there's nothing ticking in there.
You head down and find Flux at market shopping for meat.
>>480147
They think it over. "Fine, but no troublemaking."
Gate is open. Palace District is right – this place is loaded with palaces. All over the place. Multiple! Streets of 'em!
>>480148
"We may. I can go talk to the Patriarch."
>>480150
"Alright, then, more specifically, where are we going next?"
Cast Iron also seems interested. "Gregory will be here if he's anywhere."
>>480154
Okay, you stop by a place that is selling nautical equipment.
>>480155
"I'm sorry, Tela. I need to keep this area secure until Vox shows up. I look forward to working with you in the future, though, so don't take it personally."
>>480157
You run across the street and dive into another place before he can catch up!
This place has some rough ponies milling about. Surely this is a merc haven.
>>480164
There he is, he just ran out of a building!
>>480158
She slipped away.
No time limit really. You'll be in town for days and there's nothing ticking in there.
You head down and find Flux at market shopping for meat.
>>480147
They think it over. "Fine, but no troublemaking."
Gate is open. Palace District is right – this place is loaded with palaces. All over the place. Multiple! Streets of 'em!
>>480148
"We may. I can go talk to the Patriarch."
>>480150
"Alright, then, more specifically, where are we going next?"
Cast Iron also seems interested. "Gregory will be here if he's anywhere."
>>480154
Okay, you stop by a place that is selling nautical equipment.
>>480155
"I'm sorry, Tela. I need to keep this area secure until Vox shows up. I look forward to working with you in the future, though, so don't take it personally."
>>480157
You run across the street and dive into another place before he can catch up!
This place has some rough ponies milling about. Surely this is a merc haven.
>>480164
There he is, he just ran out of a building!
>>480158
She slipped away.
>>480169
"Voxam. He's another Varangian. I'm waiting on him to show up. He's a crystal pony. Tell him my frequency is 140.85 if you see him."
>>480171
He nods. "Yes. That is the plan."
>>480172
The guards grumble at you. Clearly they've dealt with necromancers before.
You see no libraries, but there is a… temple-like building with a skull on it.
>>480173
"I feel ready personally, but if that would make you feel more comfortable…"
>>480174
Nothing really impressive here. They have some plating, but that would slow down the vessel intended for scouting. Bigger cannons are an option, and some flame-retardant sails… they also have crews that can come and help engineer new rooms on deck if you have the space and materials.
>>480175
Interrupted by Sateo.
>>480178
"That depends. How tough are ya?"
>>480181
Night.
"Voxam. He's another Varangian. I'm waiting on him to show up. He's a crystal pony. Tell him my frequency is 140.85 if you see him."
>>480171
He nods. "Yes. That is the plan."
>>480172
The guards grumble at you. Clearly they've dealt with necromancers before.
You see no libraries, but there is a… temple-like building with a skull on it.
>>480173
"I feel ready personally, but if that would make you feel more comfortable…"
>>480174
Nothing really impressive here. They have some plating, but that would slow down the vessel intended for scouting. Bigger cannons are an option, and some flame-retardant sails… they also have crews that can come and help engineer new rooms on deck if you have the space and materials.
>>480175
Interrupted by Sateo.
>>480178
"That depends. How tough are ya?"
>>480181
Night.
>>480189
"What do you know about head games? I need to know, because it's high time I draw the line in terms of who I accept as a merc. I've got to put an end to games before it's too late. So it's you and me, baby. I can't take any lying anymore. Be honest with me."
>>480190
It's one of those entrances where there's a wall right inside and you can go left or right.
>>480191
You get bumped about by the crowd.
>>480192
Sure.
"Alone? Or do you have friends?"
>>480193
She nods. "Let's get going, then. I know a route down directly."
And with that, you exit the palace and descend into the darkness of the sewers…
>>480194
She's in there talking to a clerk.
>>480195
You regroup with Sateo and Curry down in the market place.
>>480196
You should verbalize that desire.
Suddenly, you shake yourself, and look down. Hm. No more stripes.
"Wow. You turned into a unicorn."
"What do you know about head games? I need to know, because it's high time I draw the line in terms of who I accept as a merc. I've got to put an end to games before it's too late. So it's you and me, baby. I can't take any lying anymore. Be honest with me."
>>480190
It's one of those entrances where there's a wall right inside and you can go left or right.
>>480191
You get bumped about by the crowd.
>>480192
Sure.
"Alone? Or do you have friends?"
>>480193
She nods. "Let's get going, then. I know a route down directly."
And with that, you exit the palace and descend into the darkness of the sewers…
>>480194
She's in there talking to a clerk.
>>480195
You regroup with Sateo and Curry down in the market place.
>>480196
You should verbalize that desire.
Suddenly, you shake yourself, and look down. Hm. No more stripes.
"Wow. You turned into a unicorn."
>>480212
"I know. It worries me, because before we left Dixie the two of them were practically at each others' throats. No one changes that quickly, especially not a ten-year-old."
I'll sigh.
"And she won't listen to me, won't listen to her mother, won't listen to reason! Only one she seems to listen to is Emrille, and I have no idea why."
"I know. It worries me, because before we left Dixie the two of them were practically at each others' throats. No one changes that quickly, especially not a ten-year-old."
I'll sigh.
"And she won't listen to me, won't listen to her mother, won't listen to reason! Only one she seems to listen to is Emrille, and I have no idea why."
>>480218
"What's concerning is that she'd rather run off into this city, without her mother, and then proceed to track Emrille down and then base her entire worth on what she thinks Emrille says. She was in tears when I found them earlier, simply because Emrille had the rare bit of sense to say that miss Seas shouldn't be a mercenary."
"What's concerning is that she'd rather run off into this city, without her mother, and then proceed to track Emrille down and then base her entire worth on what she thinks Emrille says. She was in tears when I found them earlier, simply because Emrille had the rare bit of sense to say that miss Seas shouldn't be a mercenary."
>>480201
You head in. Wow. Well, this place clearly as a theme. Black and bronze everywhere. Ponies in black robes trimmed with bronze. Skulls hanging all around. Plenty of necromancers about, by the look of things. Most of them are sitting on benches listening to a pony up at the front giving a… sermon? Lecture? You're not sure. Anyway, there are side hallways branching off from here that surely lead to other rooms.
>>480202
You hike through the darkness for what seems like miles. Eventually you hear voices up ahead.
Spook nods at the group and peeks around the corner before waving you ahead. Somewhere in the dark of the tunnels before you, there's a hint of light leaking around yet another corner…
>>480209
"We mostly do custom work on ships. The sails, huh? Well, we can definitely install 'em. Got dimensions?"
>>480210
He's clearly playing up the 'mercenary' bit as a joke with her.
You head in. Wow. Well, this place clearly as a theme. Black and bronze everywhere. Ponies in black robes trimmed with bronze. Skulls hanging all around. Plenty of necromancers about, by the look of things. Most of them are sitting on benches listening to a pony up at the front giving a… sermon? Lecture? You're not sure. Anyway, there are side hallways branching off from here that surely lead to other rooms.
>>480202
You hike through the darkness for what seems like miles. Eventually you hear voices up ahead.
Spook nods at the group and peeks around the corner before waving you ahead. Somewhere in the dark of the tunnels before you, there's a hint of light leaking around yet another corner…
>>480209
"We mostly do custom work on ships. The sails, huh? Well, we can definitely install 'em. Got dimensions?"
>>480210
He's clearly playing up the 'mercenary' bit as a joke with her.
>>480784
Hm…
Maybe I should have taught these guys some Command Signs first… oh well.
Stick behind the corner and motion the others to stay quiet in the dark.
Anything around I can use to create some noise to lead those cultists here? We might be able to get the drop on them in the dark…
Roll #1 4 = 4
Hm…
Maybe I should have taught these guys some Command Signs first… oh well.
Stick behind the corner and motion the others to stay quiet in the dark.
Anything around I can use to create some noise to lead those cultists here? We might be able to get the drop on them in the dark…
Roll #1 4 = 4
>>480787
"Okay, but right now I can only hire mind readers. So what number am I thinking of?"
>>480788
You step into the nearby mercenary recruiting office and observe her taking a test.
>>480789
You can't make out much of anything in the dark, but you ARE in a sewer, so you could splash the water.
>>480790
It's hard to pick up on since you're part way through, but it seems to have to do with succession and politics. You hear him mention something about a cult returning more than once. He doesn't have many kind words for it. The Cult of Finality, he says. Hm.
"Okay, but right now I can only hire mind readers. So what number am I thinking of?"
>>480788
You step into the nearby mercenary recruiting office and observe her taking a test.
>>480789
You can't make out much of anything in the dark, but you ARE in a sewer, so you could splash the water.
>>480790
It's hard to pick up on since you're part way through, but it seems to have to do with succession and politics. You hear him mention something about a cult returning more than once. He doesn't have many kind words for it. The Cult of Finality, he says. Hm.
>>480799
You splash around a hoof in the disgusting water and eventually you hear some voices getting closer. A lantern with a pony attached to it swings around the corner.
"I heard movement down this way."
"Probably rats. They're into everything."
"Should we check it out anyway?"
"Maybe… I think it would be smarter to just get back to the passage and seal it off. We're done here."
>>480800
Right. They look to you for guidance. Where to, next?
>>480801
"Wrong. I'm sorry, I can't admit you. If you were qualified, you'd know my reasons, because you'd be a mind reader."
>>480803
The recruiter gives you a wink.
>>480804
Walking to and from the adjacent halls.
You splash around a hoof in the disgusting water and eventually you hear some voices getting closer. A lantern with a pony attached to it swings around the corner.
"I heard movement down this way."
"Probably rats. They're into everything."
"Should we check it out anyway?"
"Maybe… I think it would be smarter to just get back to the passage and seal it off. We're done here."
>>480800
Right. They look to you for guidance. Where to, next?
>>480801
"Wrong. I'm sorry, I can't admit you. If you were qualified, you'd know my reasons, because you'd be a mind reader."
>>480803
The recruiter gives you a wink.
>>480804
Walking to and from the adjacent halls.
>>480809
Well since two of the notable singers weren't here, one just ambled off and the fourth had not been located…
…come to think of it I never checked out those boats that were supposed to take us away. It might be pointless to organize anything else until that is cleared.
TO THE DOCKS!
Do I meet anyone relevant along the way?
'1d10'
Roll #1 2 = 2
Well since two of the notable singers weren't here, one just ambled off and the fourth had not been located…
…come to think of it I never checked out those boats that were supposed to take us away. It might be pointless to organize anything else until that is cleared.
TO THE DOCKS!
Do I meet anyone relevant along the way?
'1d10'
Roll #1 2 = 2
>>480815
"Okay, there is a way you could prove yourself. You see that pony behind you? You think you could escort him around the city and keep him safe, to prove you have some experience as a bodyguard?"
>>480814
This room opens up into a large library. It's quiet here. There's a lot of transcribing going on in the center of the room, though the outer ring has several researchers busy reading.
>>480813
You creep up and kick the lantern-pony into the sewer water. The other turns around and yells, "Hey, hostiles, hostiles!"
One of your compatriots takes a swing but gets a nasty hit the the side of the head. Another is a little more lucky and gets in a hit on the leg.
>>480824
For clarity, of the four, two are freelance, one you recruited, and one should be there are the opera house you're at. Anyway, you head down to the docks.
You pass through a big market place, but don't see anyone too interesting.
"Okay, there is a way you could prove yourself. You see that pony behind you? You think you could escort him around the city and keep him safe, to prove you have some experience as a bodyguard?"
>>480814
This room opens up into a large library. It's quiet here. There's a lot of transcribing going on in the center of the room, though the outer ring has several researchers busy reading.
>>480813
You creep up and kick the lantern-pony into the sewer water. The other turns around and yells, "Hey, hostiles, hostiles!"
One of your compatriots takes a swing but gets a nasty hit the the side of the head. Another is a little more lucky and gets in a hit on the leg.
>>480824
For clarity, of the four, two are freelance, one you recruited, and one should be there are the opera house you're at. Anyway, you head down to the docks.
You pass through a big market place, but don't see anyone too interesting.
>>480847
You recognize the most distinctive of the vessels. It looks more like several shipwrecks stitched together than a vessel of its own. It's huge – the size of two or three other ships, and there are sails hanging off the side. Cannons are extruding from every side and every angle, warping the deck in odd directions.
>>480851
He indicates Curry.
>>480853
It's not exactly a public library. You could ask around, though. Maybe find somepony who looks important.
>>480846
He sidesteps and axes you a question. Er – axes your leg, I mean. Anyway, it hurts.
HP disables the one in the water in the meantime.
You recognize the most distinctive of the vessels. It looks more like several shipwrecks stitched together than a vessel of its own. It's huge – the size of two or three other ships, and there are sails hanging off the side. Cannons are extruding from every side and every angle, warping the deck in odd directions.
>>480851
He indicates Curry.
>>480853
It's not exactly a public library. You could ask around, though. Maybe find somepony who looks important.
>>480846
He sidesteps and axes you a question. Er – axes your leg, I mean. Anyway, it hurts.
HP disables the one in the water in the meantime.
>>480855
"What do you mean, what am I doing here? You run off in the middle of the market without your mother or anyone else, and you expect me not to follow after you?"
I'll frown right back at her.
"Now, are you going to act like a professional and accept that contract, or are you going to refuse it just because it's me?"
"What do you mean, what am I doing here? You run off in the middle of the market without your mother or anyone else, and you expect me not to follow after you?"
I'll frown right back at her.
"Now, are you going to act like a professional and accept that contract, or are you going to refuse it just because it's me?"
>>480870
"Of course. Once you work your way up."
>>480858
You hike on over. They're all smiles. "Oh, back again for more, eh? Ready to step up again?"
>>480859
Sure. The sailors aboard eye you, though. You're obviously out of place. It might be wise to check in with some sort of fleet official so they know you're vouched for.
You noticed moored nearby a fresh looking ship that has a strikingly new design. It looks very fast. Next to it, there is a powerful and dauntingly dark ship of the line. It has metal plating and is midnight black all around, probably nigh impossible to make out past sundown at sea. There are two more ships, as well, but they both look pretty dated. Once is large, and reinforced over the years. The other is lighter and older, but looks like it can still hold its own even if it is a bit decrepit.
>>480861
She seems offended that you think she has ninja stars just because she's a ninja, but you stab the remaining cultist through the throat.
"What do you think they were talking about? Sealing off a route?"
"Let's hope they didn't have friends…"
"You didn't have to… kill them!"
>>480864
You locate a very librarian-looking necromancer in very fine silk robes sorting books back onto their respective shelves. This mare looks like she knows what she's doing.
"Of course. Once you work your way up."
>>480858
You hike on over. They're all smiles. "Oh, back again for more, eh? Ready to step up again?"
>>480859
Sure. The sailors aboard eye you, though. You're obviously out of place. It might be wise to check in with some sort of fleet official so they know you're vouched for.
You noticed moored nearby a fresh looking ship that has a strikingly new design. It looks very fast. Next to it, there is a powerful and dauntingly dark ship of the line. It has metal plating and is midnight black all around, probably nigh impossible to make out past sundown at sea. There are two more ships, as well, but they both look pretty dated. Once is large, and reinforced over the years. The other is lighter and older, but looks like it can still hold its own even if it is a bit decrepit.
>>480861
She seems offended that you think she has ninja stars just because she's a ninja, but you stab the remaining cultist through the throat.
"What do you think they were talking about? Sealing off a route?"
"Let's hope they didn't have friends…"
"You didn't have to… kill them!"
>>480864
You locate a very librarian-looking necromancer in very fine silk robes sorting books back onto their respective shelves. This mare looks like she knows what she's doing.
>>480879
Didn't I find some in her stuff?
Wipe off my blade and sheathe then.
"Oh, but of course I did. It is them or us, I'm afraid. These ponies are a danger to society and have no respect for the law."
Let's see… we should advance further. Let's hope they didn't seal anything yet. Stay frosty.
Roll #1 6 = 6
Didn't I find some in her stuff?
Wipe off my blade and sheathe then.
"Oh, but of course I did. It is them or us, I'm afraid. These ponies are a danger to society and have no respect for the law."
Let's see… we should advance further. Let's hope they didn't seal anything yet. Stay frosty.
Roll #1 6 = 6
>>480886
#I don't remember who you were supposed to check in with… wait! It was one of those first five listed at the top of the thread. Ask around about one of them.
>>480887
"I'm afraid you're going to have to be more specific."
>>480888
He gently shakes your hoof.
>>480889
You did, but she doesn't know that. She just knows you looked through it.
You move up ahead to where they were lurking before you arrived. Hm… the tunnel splits two ways from here, but where there should be a wall, you see a bunch of removed bricks and a dirt tunnel.
Suddenly, there's an explosion sound from deep within.
Spook curses. "They've probably gone and sealed it anyway. Any ideas where this could lead?"
"Based on the direction… out of the city?"
"What could be at this depth outside the city?"
Lavinia speaks up: "The old ruins. Of course… they'd be the perfect place for a cult to gather. This tunnel must lead directly there."
#I don't remember who you were supposed to check in with… wait! It was one of those first five listed at the top of the thread. Ask around about one of them.
>>480887
"I'm afraid you're going to have to be more specific."
>>480888
He gently shakes your hoof.
>>480889
You did, but she doesn't know that. She just knows you looked through it.
You move up ahead to where they were lurking before you arrived. Hm… the tunnel splits two ways from here, but where there should be a wall, you see a bunch of removed bricks and a dirt tunnel.
Suddenly, there's an explosion sound from deep within.
Spook curses. "They've probably gone and sealed it anyway. Any ideas where this could lead?"
"Based on the direction… out of the city?"
"What could be at this depth outside the city?"
Lavinia speaks up: "The old ruins. Of course… they'd be the perfect place for a cult to gather. This tunnel must lead directly there."
>>480897
"They're an old ruin – mostly sealed off, I thought – outside of town. Some old griffon tribe populated them before ponies even came to this island. The RNS likes to study it."
>>480894
"Oh, absolutely. You want information, we need to play insult beer pong."
>>480898
"Famous? The name doesn't ring a bell as one of the great heroes… Maybe a minor hero? Even then… Do you have an approximate year of death?"
>>480899
You wander around on the ships a while too proud to ask for directions and turn up nothing.
"They're an old ruin – mostly sealed off, I thought – outside of town. Some old griffon tribe populated them before ponies even came to this island. The RNS likes to study it."
>>480894
"Oh, absolutely. You want information, we need to play insult beer pong."
>>480898
"Famous? The name doesn't ring a bell as one of the great heroes… Maybe a minor hero? Even then… Do you have an approximate year of death?"
>>480899
You wander around on the ships a while too proud to ask for directions and turn up nothing.
>>480908
I'll amble after her.
"You're ten years old, miss Seas, and Roads is a dangerous place no matter how old you are. That's why you should always have a friend with you, or your mother."
I'll sigh.
"We'll have to have a talk later, miss Seas, but for today let's just enjoy the sights and sounds of Roads."
After reconvening with Tela and Sateo, I'll head back to the market and catch up with Skylight and Mera.
I'll amble after her.
"You're ten years old, miss Seas, and Roads is a dangerous place no matter how old you are. That's why you should always have a friend with you, or your mother."
I'll sigh.
"We'll have to have a talk later, miss Seas, but for today let's just enjoy the sights and sounds of Roads."
After reconvening with Tela and Sateo, I'll head back to the market and catch up with Skylight and Mera.
>>480932
"There's one thing that you should remember about me, miss Seas: for some reason, I always manage to word things worse than what I mean."
I'll shake my head.
"It's how I got Felfire mad at me, and it's what set Emrille off way back when I first joined you all in Autumnsreach. She thought I was insulting her at the time, and hasn't forgiven me since."
I'll huff.
"Not that I'd much want her forgiveness, as she's returned the perceived slight well past tenfold…"
>>480938
"There's that, too. Sateo's no slouch, and I spent most of my life training as well. I'm no markspony, but you'll need to know how to defend yourself without a gun if you want to survive with one."
"There's one thing that you should remember about me, miss Seas: for some reason, I always manage to word things worse than what I mean."
I'll shake my head.
"It's how I got Felfire mad at me, and it's what set Emrille off way back when I first joined you all in Autumnsreach. She thought I was insulting her at the time, and hasn't forgiven me since."
I'll huff.
"Not that I'd much want her forgiveness, as she's returned the perceived slight well past tenfold…"
>>480938
"There's that, too. Sateo's no slouch, and I spent most of my life training as well. I'm no markspony, but you'll need to know how to defend yourself without a gun if you want to survive with one."
>>481050
"The way of the word and way of the sword have both guided me through life's many roads.
I am Vox, voice of many things."
>>481053
"Whatever gets me off this rock. If that means making a few more heads roll under the moniker of mercenary, well, it will be nothing new, save for the moister setting."
"The way of the word and way of the sword have both guided me through life's many roads.
I am Vox, voice of many things."
>>481053
"Whatever gets me off this rock. If that means making a few more heads roll under the moniker of mercenary, well, it will be nothing new, save for the moister setting."
>>481077
"Circumstance. Miss Seas and her mother were prisoners onboard this fleet when we first met, and I swore to free them. It didn't quite go as planned, and I ended up imprisoned as well. So I decided to earn our collective freedom by working, since it's one of the few things I seem to be good at."
"Circumstance. Miss Seas and her mother were prisoners onboard this fleet when we first met, and I swore to free them. It didn't quite go as planned, and I ended up imprisoned as well. So I decided to earn our collective freedom by working, since it's one of the few things I seem to be good at."
>>481081
"I've not met many of them, but the ones I have are generally pleasant. Miss Spring Water, miss Seas's mother, is also a doctor. Mister Chip, who I think is the third mate now of the Eagle's Roost, that odd thing with all the cannons. He's a keen fellow, and has a sound head for metalwork. Miss Terrebonne and Felfire are the resident resurrectionists, and both are pleasant enough, when you get to know them. I'd advise not getting too touchy with Felfire, though."
I'll rub my chin a little.
"There are actually a few more, though going through all of them would likely take far too long."
"I've not met many of them, but the ones I have are generally pleasant. Miss Spring Water, miss Seas's mother, is also a doctor. Mister Chip, who I think is the third mate now of the Eagle's Roost, that odd thing with all the cannons. He's a keen fellow, and has a sound head for metalwork. Miss Terrebonne and Felfire are the resident resurrectionists, and both are pleasant enough, when you get to know them. I'd advise not getting too touchy with Felfire, though."
I'll rub my chin a little.
"There are actually a few more, though going through all of them would likely take far too long."
>>481086
#[140.96]
Vox, have you heard, 'all for one, one for all'? It means that you have to stick together, no matter what. Don't just charge in alone!
You remember a time you DID go in alone, though… Back then… How could you forget?
#[140.96]
Vox, have you heard, 'all for one, one for all'? It means that you have to stick together, no matter what. Don't just charge in alone!
You remember a time you DID go in alone, though… Back then… How could you forget?
The wagon jostles as you're pulled down, along the path. Glancing left and right, regulars surround you. You're on your way to seize an enemy camp…
It's hot outside, so you're grateful for the covering on the wagon. Everything is dead – even the plantlife. A sea of yellow and brown. Finally, the contraption shudders to a halt.
"We go on hoof from here. Step lively, now.">>481091
The sergeant is a bit of a hard-ass. Literally, too, because he's a donkey. He growls at you: "Just stay with the other regulars. We've reached the oasis-lands, and we're cutting through the roughnecks up along the mountain side through the densest part of the foliage. You try anything 'theatric' and try to be a hero, you get yourself killed – or worse."
He indicates what lies before your group, and even for a pony as relatively traveled as you, it's a surprise. The dead, withering planes gives way in mere feet to a thriving jungle. There is a road cut through that would lead straight to your objective, but the other regulars have already drawn machetes and started hacking through thick tree trunks and vines far off to the side. Looks like slow goings.
The sergeant is a bit of a hard-ass. Literally, too, because he's a donkey. He growls at you: "Just stay with the other regulars. We've reached the oasis-lands, and we're cutting through the roughnecks up along the mountain side through the densest part of the foliage. You try anything 'theatric' and try to be a hero, you get yourself killed – or worse."
He indicates what lies before your group, and even for a pony as relatively traveled as you, it's a surprise. The dead, withering planes gives way in mere feet to a thriving jungle. There is a road cut through that would lead straight to your objective, but the other regulars have already drawn machetes and started hacking through thick tree trunks and vines far off to the side. Looks like slow goings.
>>481093
Too many cooks in the kitchen ruins the meal. Besides, you don't know where you could step in. Soon, they've made a little progress and have started to move in – but it's only a few feet into the foliage, no room for you to get in, or most of the others anyway. The sergeant has stepped inside to supervise.
Things are getting really hot out here in the direct view of the sun.
Too many cooks in the kitchen ruins the meal. Besides, you don't know where you could step in. Soon, they've made a little progress and have started to move in – but it's only a few feet into the foliage, no room for you to get in, or most of the others anyway. The sergeant has stepped inside to supervise.
Things are getting really hot out here in the direct view of the sun.
>>481097
The trees are so thick, they can't hear you – or at least, you assume so, since you don't get a reply and the sound of hacking is very muted.
A bit of movement catches your eye, which causes you to jerk your gaze up to the road, and you notice something you hadn't before. Splayed out, up ahead near the bend in the road, a soldier in your own colors lays on the ground, leaking blood. Had he been laying there all this time? Granted, it's easy to blend in with all this foliage in fatigues.
The trees are so thick, they can't hear you – or at least, you assume so, since you don't get a reply and the sound of hacking is very muted.
A bit of movement catches your eye, which causes you to jerk your gaze up to the road, and you notice something you hadn't before. Splayed out, up ahead near the bend in the road, a soldier in your own colors lays on the ground, leaking blood. Had he been laying there all this time? Granted, it's easy to blend in with all this foliage in fatigues.
>>481111
So the island is the last remaining bastion of the Trotantine Empire, and this I gathered.
But centuries ago, in Zivur's age, it sprawled much, much more, correct?
Why call it a trotantine empire if trotantium is not even there anymore.
Groan.
"Right, of course.
Well he told me of an organization he worked with, centuries ago, when necromancy was shunned.
I would like to know what has come of them."
So the island is the last remaining bastion of the Trotantine Empire, and this I gathered.
But centuries ago, in Zivur's age, it sprawled much, much more, correct?
Why call it a trotantine empire if trotantium is not even there anymore.
Groan.
"Right, of course.
Well he told me of an organization he worked with, centuries ago, when necromancy was shunned.
I would like to know what has come of them."
>>481112
Yes that is correct.
And Trotantium is still there. You're thinking of Clopantinople.
"You're going to have to be more specific. The Trotantine Empire is a large one and has spanned many centuries."
>>481113
You're in some sort of… dark chamber. It's pitch black in here, except for a single beam of light that illuminates the room. It's on the other side of some bars.
You feel like shit.
Yes that is correct.
And Trotantium is still there. You're thinking of Clopantinople.
"You're going to have to be more specific. The Trotantine Empire is a large one and has spanned many centuries."
>>481113
You're in some sort of… dark chamber. It's pitch black in here, except for a single beam of light that illuminates the room. It's on the other side of some bars.
You feel like shit.
>>480784
"Not really. I was just assigned to the ship and was looking for a few things to add to my room. Passing by was just mere chance on my end. I can tell you it is a dhow, but not much more than that. I came in with the fleet that just landed, if you can spare the time to look it over and tell me what you think."
"Not really. I was just assigned to the ship and was looking for a few things to add to my room. Passing by was just mere chance on my end. I can tell you it is a dhow, but not much more than that. I came in with the fleet that just landed, if you can spare the time to look it over and tell me what you think."
>>481150
You inch up to the bars and he pulls out a little pistol and aims it at your head… before mounting the bars and sticking his member through.
"I told you, baby. I'll be getting my satisfaction one way or another."
Camelbodia sure is awful!
>>481151
Yes?
You follow her in to a side room.
"I do have a problem that needs to be dealt with by a necromancer familiar with the CHS who is not RNS. A splinter group that formed long ago has recently reformed. I need someone to infiltrate their group and find out their location so we can finally stomp them out for good. No fighting required. Just find them, and report back."
You inch up to the bars and he pulls out a little pistol and aims it at your head… before mounting the bars and sticking his member through.
"I told you, baby. I'll be getting my satisfaction one way or another."
Camelbodia sure is awful!
>>481151
Yes?
You follow her in to a side room.
"I do have a problem that needs to be dealt with by a necromancer familiar with the CHS who is not RNS. A splinter group that formed long ago has recently reformed. I need someone to infiltrate their group and find out their location so we can finally stomp them out for good. No fighting required. Just find them, and report back."
>>481156
"It's called the Hourglass. You'll probably notice an all-black ship by the name of the Dark Lantern first, or the much larger Eagle's Roost. Right now, it looks like it was recently manufactured and equipped, since we spent more time deciding a few things for the fleet than worrying about it."
"It's called the Hourglass. You'll probably notice an all-black ship by the name of the Dark Lantern first, or the much larger Eagle's Roost. Right now, it looks like it was recently manufactured and equipped, since we spent more time deciding a few things for the fleet than worrying about it."
>>481155
"definitely.
Give me a quick rundown. How comes they know everyone involved with the RNS?"
I promise I will only ask for your help if my life depends on it. But can I take you too would rather not stop existing altogether?
Because looks like that's what our 'enemies' want o do.
Unless she is lying.
"definitely.
Give me a quick rundown. How comes they know everyone involved with the RNS?"
I promise I will only ask for your help if my life depends on it. But can I take you too would rather not stop existing altogether?
Because looks like that's what our 'enemies' want o do.
Unless she is lying.
>>481159
"Give them an estimate for the sails. If we are going to use that dhow in these waters, I want to make sure it is as secure as possible, for me and any crew I get for it."
"Oh, and look at the hold. I'd like to know what the difference would be if I had it converted to a galley or a set of rooms for a long-term crew."
"Give them an estimate for the sails. If we are going to use that dhow in these waters, I want to make sure it is as secure as possible, for me and any crew I get for it."
"Oh, and look at the hold. I'd like to know what the difference would be if I had it converted to a galley or a set of rooms for a long-term crew."
>>481166
"It depends on the vessel in question. Every ship is unique. We'll get you some recommendations later."
>>481167
You can't contain your own arousal and start to take care of yourself.
Eventually you get lightheaded from the exchange and pass out. You wake up later missing a significant amount of dignity.
>>481168
I'm not sure. I doubt it, in this form. Maybe, though.
He's finished in the meantime and gone off somewhere. Most of the ponies have disbanded, too.
"It depends on the vessel in question. Every ship is unique. We'll get you some recommendations later."
>>481167
You can't contain your own arousal and start to take care of yourself.
Eventually you get lightheaded from the exchange and pass out. You wake up later missing a significant amount of dignity.
>>481168
I'm not sure. I doubt it, in this form. Maybe, though.
He's finished in the meantime and gone off somewhere. Most of the ponies have disbanded, too.
>>481187
"Hm. A performer? Most interesting. Indeed, I believe you may find plenty of opportunities on this very fleet… if you have the talent for it."
Extend a hoof.
"They call me Light Heart. I am the third mate and duty officer of the Sirocco."
Gesture over to wherever the Sirocco has docked.
"Hm. A performer? Most interesting. Indeed, I believe you may find plenty of opportunities on this very fleet… if you have the talent for it."
Extend a hoof.
"They call me Light Heart. I am the third mate and duty officer of the Sirocco."
Gesture over to wherever the Sirocco has docked.
>>481189
I chuckle again.
"The finest of ships, captained by a most capable gryphon who goes by the name Al-Jinn the Unscarred. It may not be as spacious as, say, the Eagle's Roost, but it certainly is the quickest."
Look him over.
"I must say I am curious… you are the first crystal pony I have had the pleasure of meeting so far. Are there more of you present in Roads?"
I chuckle again.
"The finest of ships, captained by a most capable gryphon who goes by the name Al-Jinn the Unscarred. It may not be as spacious as, say, the Eagle's Roost, but it certainly is the quickest."
Look him over.
"I must say I am curious… you are the first crystal pony I have had the pleasure of meeting so far. Are there more of you present in Roads?"
>>481191
"Aren't we all?"
I smile and circle around him for a moment, appraising him.
"I never quite understood from the stories alone… aside from superficial differences, what makes a crystal pony a crystal pony? I heard rumors about your kind being more in touch with emotions, which carries quite a bit of implications."
"Aren't we all?"
I smile and circle around him for a moment, appraising him.
"I never quite understood from the stories alone… aside from superficial differences, what makes a crystal pony a crystal pony? I heard rumors about your kind being more in touch with emotions, which carries quite a bit of implications."
>>481192
"The extremes of emotion, positive and negative, resonate much more strongly in us, often to the point of affecting our physical performance.
While a success will leave anyone excited and happy, it will outright strengthen one such as me. Conversely, a deep failure weakens the odds of success in the immediate future."
While my fancy outfit does cover a lot, parts of my deep neck scar do remain visible.
"The extremes of emotion, positive and negative, resonate much more strongly in us, often to the point of affecting our physical performance.
While a success will leave anyone excited and happy, it will outright strengthen one such as me. Conversely, a deep failure weakens the odds of success in the immediate future."
While my fancy outfit does cover a lot, parts of my deep neck scar do remain visible.
>>481218
"I wouldn't know. The sea has never been a home to me, just a road.
Just a road, like any other
Lonely and hard, often a bother
But a road that leads me away from here
Is the last chance I have, I fear…
On the rooooad, the road to freedom
Another roooooad, to another kingdom
A road I must travel
Lest my past unravels
A road to a new beginning…"
"I wouldn't know. The sea has never been a home to me, just a road.
Just a road, like any other
Lonely and hard, often a bother
But a road that leads me away from here
Is the last chance I have, I fear…
On the rooooad, the road to freedom
Another roooooad, to another kingdom
A road I must travel
Lest my past unravels
A road to a new beginning…"
>>481219
"… And one that requires some sinning.
One many souls have taken.
And plenty of others have forsaken.
But nonetheless a road so thrilling.
And yet oh so fulfilling.
Now I must take my leave.
For there are many issues in this place that I must cleave."
I chuckle and start trotting away.
"We will no doubt speak again soon. Have a pleasant day, mister Vox."
"… And one that requires some sinning.
One many souls have taken.
And plenty of others have forsaken.
But nonetheless a road so thrilling.
And yet oh so fulfilling.
Now I must take my leave.
For there are many issues in this place that I must cleave."
I chuckle and start trotting away.
"We will no doubt speak again soon. Have a pleasant day, mister Vox."
>>481253
You can't really tell very easily from up here.
>>481254
"What, the RNS? No, not at all. They hate the Cult more than any of us could, if you can believe it. The Cult used to be part of the RNS – well, not exactly. A long time ago there was a different necromancy organization funded by the Imperial Court, but when it was restructured and renamed, the Cult broke off from it, and the RNS came into being. As for the ruins… I've never been there myself. Spook?"
"Neither have I."
The others shake their heads as well.
>>481255
There's a panic up on level two – the level with the temples.
You can't really tell very easily from up here.
>>481254
"What, the RNS? No, not at all. They hate the Cult more than any of us could, if you can believe it. The Cult used to be part of the RNS – well, not exactly. A long time ago there was a different necromancy organization funded by the Imperial Court, but when it was restructured and renamed, the Cult broke off from it, and the RNS came into being. As for the ruins… I've never been there myself. Spook?"
"Neither have I."
The others shake their heads as well.
>>481255
There's a panic up on level two – the level with the temples.