/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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File: 1364671965173.png (241.79 KB, 474x452, Paladinquest.png, IO Google TinEye)

382711[Last 50 Posts]

You have a Battlemaster to meet.

382716

>>382711
Yep. We sure do.
And I'll be waiting for everyone else up at his office, after I tell Lime when I run into him.

382719

>>382716
En route with Papaver.

382720

>>382716
Guess I'm there too, looking very sheepish

382724

>>382720
"Morning, Star."

382726

Battlemaster it is!

382728

>>382711
I also remember I rolled 9 to be fabolous

382729

>>382724
"Morning…"

382740

>>382716
>>382719
>>382720
>>382724
>>382726
>>382728
You gather up at his office.
He has even gathered some extra chairs so you can all be comfy
"Cadets. Please, sit down. I should debrief you on the events of the gala."

382742

>>382729
"Sleep well?"

382744

>>382740
"Of course, sir."

At attention.

382749

>>382740
Get comfortable.
"We did good, yeah!"

382750

>>382740
"Ayay sir!"
Sit down, head tall.

382752

>>382742
I nod

>>382740
I obediently sit down.

382754

>>382740
Sit down, at attention.

382779

>>382754
>>382752
>>382750
>>382749
>>382744
"You did well indeed. I stayed behind to interview the lords, and even though confidentiality stops me from giving all the details the assassin you stopped was a bloody notable one."

382795

>>382779
Keep smirking.
"All in a day's work!"

382796

>>382779
"He'd have had to be, to get in so easily."

382801

>>382779
"So… What happened to the Lords we helped arrest?"

382803

>>382779
I look down in embarrassment.
I wasn't even around to help…

382812

>>382801
"Feathercrest Morningsprite was not seen again at the gala.
Wonderbolt went home to sleep off the punch and the old drunkard Falconwreath stayed until dawn."
>>382795
>>382796
>>382803
"I've been asked to also hear out your feelings over the mission and give any counseling if you need some.
Not an easy thing, seeing two dead bodies in one night."

382818

>>382812
Frown. "I was shocked that the assassin had to be killed."

382823

>>382812
"I was more surprised that nobles could act that stupidly. Aren't they supposed to be taught better? Damn waste of a life."

382824

>>382812
"That pony could have been simply brought in. There was no need to kill him…"

382832

>>382812
"I feel like my aim with throwing daggers is pretty amazing. We had most of the situation under control."

382851

>>382818
>>382824
"They rarely give up, I'm afraid."
>>382823
"That's the problem with nobles. They know they are so well taught they end up acting even stupider, thinking they are too smart to do stupid things."
>>382832
"Glad to see you weren't traumatized or anything"

382856

>>382851
"By what? Some actual action! I was surprised how he could see me when I attacked him… but it was exciting!"

382862

>>382851
I'll just shake my head.

382867

>>382851
"It was brutal… Sir… who was the guard who died in the garden?"

382878

>>382867
"…I'm afraid I'm not allowed to reveal his name.
You know, confidentiality and all."

382884

Turn to Burning.
"You are not shaken either, are you?"

382896

>>382878
"Such thoughtless loss of life… that could have been any of us…"

382899

>>382884
"Not badly.
More by that other assassin than the one we killed…"
>>382896
"Indeed. But he knew what he signed up for. He too a willing risk."

382920

>>382899
"We chased that one away!… I just need to keep a closer eye on you next time. And I will."

382941

The battlemaster clears his throat
"You are all to be commended for your actions at the gala. Aside form gaining the day off to recover, an additional holiday will be given to you later down the line at a time you wish to take it."

382945

>>382899
"Sir, will the fact we allowed that noble to panic and kill the prisoner reflect negatively on our records, sir?"
>>382941
"Wha-"
Well now.
Be surprised!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

382946

>>382941
I raise a hoof
"Sir… I… uh… I don't think I deserve that."

382947

>>382941
I grin.
"Awesome! Do we get a leave for a Canterlot trip with it too?"

382954

>>382941
>>382946
I'll nod as Star speaks.
"I wasn't there for the actual fight itself either, sir. I don't think I should be rewarded for not being there."

382956

>>382941
Nod and smile. "Thank you, sir."

382979

>>382954
>>382946
"Hrm. Well, up to you on that. I was told to reward all the cadets who were there for the Gala."
>>382947
"It's a day off. You're free to go as you will."
>>382945
>>382956
"My pleasure. A job well done deserves a reward."

"Now, any further questions?"

382981

>>382979
"Sir, no sir!"
Wait to be dismissed.
Try to contain the glee.

Roll #1 1 = 1

382984

>>382979
Glance at Burning.
"We are in for a treat once we'll pick a date~"

Turn back to the BM.
"Any more missions in the future?"

382988

>>382979
"That's all, sir."

382995

>>382979
I'll look at Star for a second.
"I don't know if I can take that reward in good conscience, sir."

382998

>>382981
You squee all over yourself and the floor.
>>382984
"Not really. Back to classes for now, I believe.
Save for the Winter Play, if you're unto acting."
>>382995
>>382988
"If that was all, dismissed."

383006

>>382998
Too bad.
Dismissed I go!
I should go back to my room and check the book Starswirl gave me.
>>382988
"Did you hear him? We did good! And have been commended! Our names will be told for this!"

Roll #1 1 = 1

383008

>>382998
I'll nod, though I'm curious about the play.
"The Winter play?"

383009

>>382998
I frown.
"Not a single one? This one finally brought some excitement into all that training!"

383010

>>383006
Return with her.

"You know, being a paladin is about doing the right thing even if your name won't be sung. Though it is a perk."

383011

>>382998
Welp, away we go then…
I'll wait for Jon though

383012

>>383010
"Exactly! It's great!"
Can I contain the squee now?

Roll #1 1 = 1

383014

>>383012
>1
>1
>1
I think you may have suffered permanent brain damage causing excessive dopamine levels.

383036

>>383008
"Every year the academy does a play. A little mood lifter for everyone.
Usually they do Hearth's Warming like in Canterlot."
>>383012
>>383006
You squee yourself in front of everyone.
That just ain't right…
Don't expect to be taken seriously by anyone for a while until this is forgotten.

383042

>>383014
Id please, this is supposed to be a qt zealous horse, not an open minded donkey of mistery.
"So!"
Jump in the air sharply with a big smile.
"Free day! Let's do something! Run into Canterlot!
Take down evil! Sing poems!
Write poems! Anything!"
Let the squee flow through me!
>>383036
Ouch. No. Just no. Deflate terribly.
Speak in a whisper to Nock.
"Okay, maybe I should just go back to our room…"

383053

>>383042
Cringe a little, then escort her back. "We can still enjoy a day indoors. Or slip out later."

383056

>>383036
"Ohh. They do one out in Fillydelphia, too. A little one done by the schools for folk who can't make it to the Canterlot play."
I'll chuckle a little.
"They usually forget the lines halfway through, but most ponies just go for the cute costumes. Where would we sign up, by the way?"

383057

>>383053
"I did really go overboard, uh?"
Look ashamed.

383060

>>383036
Turn to Burning.
"I guess they will need a lead role in that play, huh?"

383063

>>383057
Offer a gentle smile. "You do sometimes. But I forgive you."

Tail hold.

383070

>>383056
"Signups start closer to snowfall. Then they need to pick the play itself, and start working on it.
Usually the students do it independent of the faculty."
>>383060
"Me? In a play?"

383075

>>383063
Shiver.
"Tell me when I'm doing it, next time…"
>>383070
"Wait. What's the play about?"

383077

>>383070
"Don't you want to be in it?"
I smirk.
"I must be in it. Ponies need to see my greatness every once in a while!"

383085

>>383070
I'll nod.
"Thanks, sir."
And then I'll be dismissed.

383112

>>383075
"Usually it's about Hearth's Warming. Though other ideas are accepted."
>>383077
"Well if you are in… so am I."
>>383085
Welcome to being dismissed

383122

>>383112
"Hey that seems fun! Where do I sign up?"

383124

>>383085
>>383112
I'm at dismissed too!

383126

>>383124
Neat! Let's be dismissed together.
Though I do need to pester Sidus about something.

383128

>>383126
Go right ahead, my net is being a cunt anyway

383132

>>383122
"As I said, signups start later this year."

383139

>>383132
"Thank you sir!"
Nod and leave.
Maybe if I do good there 'everyone' in the Battlemaster's room will forget about that squee-fail.

So, how 'bout that book?

383141

>>383112
"We'll talk it over in a bit then."

To the Battlemaster.
"Something else you needed of us?"

383151

>>383139
Track.

383161

>>383139
…book?
>>383141
"Not really. Dismissed."

383168

>>383161
The one Starswirl gave me.

383178

>>383161
Nod at him and leave.
Go back to my room, plop down on bed, leave some space next to me for Burning.
"So about that play."

383179

>>383168
I'm pretty sure you said you weren't comfortable with taking it to the academy.

383183

>>383179
But then said I'd take it and guard it with my life.

383191

>>383178
But before you go too far!
"Hey, Sidus, I need to talk to you for a minute."

383196

>>383191
Or you could follow us to our room.
"What's up?"

383208

>>383196
"You remember that bet you made with Balsawood?"

383209

>>383208
I nod.
"Yeah?"

383212

>>383209
"What did you get out of it? Aside from just proving you were better than he was?"

383215

>>383183
I'm going to go back and help you read.

Gotta go.

383217

>>383212
"Some of his notes and maps."

383220

>>383215
And I'm sure we are totally reading that one book on heresy and not the other one.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

383222

>>383217
"How would you feel about helping Leaf Blade, Balsawood, myself, and Papaver get to the Headmaster's collection?"

383239

>>383183
Guess you have it then.
[The Tenth Path: The Key]

383245

>>383222
Smirk.
"Hmm… nah."

383252

>>383245
"Why not?"

383254

>>383239
So. What is it all about? Any epic stories of paladins?
Great quests to save kingdoms?

383259

>>383252
"I had a talk with the Battlemaster… and as a friend, I will protect you from doing something silly like that. And I will protect Balsa too, by beating him with finding my way in there."

383269

>>383259
"Even if it's to help Vera? When we first heard about the collection, it was because Vera had been having nightmares about some weird symbol. When she showed it to the headmaster, he got really curious, and then mentioned something about it in his collection. Of course, he immediately clammed up after that, but now Vera wants in so she can get answers. And I've managed to talk Leaf Blade into at least considering helping Balsawood, so that will make the job easier."
I'll huff.
"And before you ask, no I can't sneak, but I can at least get the master key from the custodian."

383276

>>383269
"Oh, you mean you don't have one of your own?"
I chuckle.
"I'm a mile ahead of you. And hey, if that is all it takes, I could borrow whatever I find down there to help Vera."

383293

>>383276
"But you wouldn't know what to look for. And what if you run into something that needs more than just one pony to make work? You don't think you're just going to put miss Heart in danger over pride, are you?"

383297

>>383293
Roll my eyes.
"Burning and I can take care of ourselves. The more we are, the more complicated it would be. And hey, she could just tell me what to look for!"

383300

>>383254
It's mostly rambling, hand written accounts on divinity, destiny and the apparent falseness of reality.
Even at a cursory glance, it is easy to tell why its author was considered the Arch Heretic.

383301

>>383297
"When's the last time you two have even talked, before the gala? She wouldn't even tell me or Star about it! I had to find out from Leaf and Balsawood."

383306

>>383300
Urgh.
Right.
Boring, my-head-hurts stuff.
Hide the book under the bed.
Leave the room and look for Jon.

383336

>>383301
"We are busy ponies, Jon. You know that too. It's not easy being as great as I am, and I making good progress both in beating Balsa to the collection, in smithing, and in training."

383349

>>383336
"So your plan is just to waltz in there with Burning, dance around the collection for a bit, and leave? To do what, prove a point?"

383351

>>383349
Hey. Pss. Where you two at?

383354

>>383351
Sword Dorm. No girls allowed. Except Burning, because stealth hacks.

383358

>>383351
I think we might be in our room

>>383349
"Yes. And to win. And by winning, preven Balsa from hurting himself. I am also a bit curious to why it is such a big deal."

383391

>>383354
>>383358
Right. I'm gonna keep my teats to myself then.

Off to find Leaf!

383394

>>383391
I'm sure Burning has superior teats anyway

383397

>>383394
10/10 body, you can't beat that.

383398

>>383358
"Neither do I, but it's got her spooked. And as a friend, I want to help her out in any way I know how."
I'll shake my head.
"And since I can't sneak for the life of me, my first thought was to see whether you would help or not."

383403

>>383391
I'm sure he'll appreciate your teats up close
"Back from the gala I see."

383410

>>383398
"Since you can't sneak, I can't help that way. Even if I find it and get in, I can't risk taking any of you there."

383413

>>383403
But I'm spoken for!~
"Back from the Battlemaster telling us how we did good but we can't know what happened because it's 'classified'."
Groan.

383418

>>383410
"You know, that's the same thing Vera said. That she can't risk us. I'll tell you what I told her. It's not up to you or her to tell us when not to help. We're your friends, and we're going to help regardless of the threat of being hurt."

383424

>>383418
"Hey, I'm not refusing help. If I can find a way for you to be useful, I will ask. And I will do whatever to help you or her back once I'm in."

383430

>>383424
"Except work with us as a group."

383432

>>383430
"It's still a group effort, even if not all of us do the same thing!"

383452

>>383413
Look at him care
"I can imagine. The dealings of nobles are sensitive business.
…what went down there anyway?"

383455

ANYWAY I need Burning to talk to too!

383456

>>383452
"An assassin tried to- Wait. Let's sit."
And then I tell him the whole story.
"But yeah, that's pretty much it."

383462

>>383455
"Hey~o"
>>383456
"Well I can guess why it's so classified."

383466

>>383462
"Hey there~"
Give her a quick kiss.
"I wanted to talk about that play. You seemed reluctant."

383469

>>383462
"I don't like all these secrets and sneakiness."
Huff for a bit and rest my head on my hooves.
"What do you know about the heart warming eve play?"

383475

>>383466
"I've never tried acting really"
>>383469
"It's a play. Usually a dull one. Hearths Warming has been done so much it's just bland now.
Just going back to the earlier topic… ever heard of… Lordblades?"

383477

>>383475
"Take it as a challenge then!"
I jump up to my hooves and strike a pose.
"And I'm sure they have a role for me that is fitting for my greatness!"

383480

>>383475
Frown.
"Uh… No, not really. What's that, some kind of weapon?"

383483

>>383432
"Fine. Make it a contest, just like the gala job. Talk to Vera at least."

383489

>>383483
"I will!"
Smirk.
"And I will win too, don't worry!"

383494

>>383477
"Ehh… as long as it isn't boring old hearths warming"
>>383480
"Supposedly it's an organization of spies and assassins that serve the throne…
…and if the stories are true, I think you may have met some of them at the gala."

383497

>>383494
"You mean like…"
Lean forward, look around uncospiciously.
"Those masked ponies?"

383504

>>383497
"Exactly.
And guess who they say their leader is…
"

383506

>>383494
"Hmm…"
Smirk.
"What if it is?… What if you pour a bit more spirit into it, and if you do good… I might reward you~"

383507

>>383504
"Wonderbolt?"

383511

>>383507
"Falconwreath.
Supposedly the late Lord founded them.
"
>>383506
"Oooh… do tell me more~"

383513

>>383489
He's getting about as insufferable as that noble Falconwreath. Burning had better deflate his head before it comes off.
And I guess I'll be loose for now. Wonder what to do.

383514

>>383511
Frown in disbelief.
"That makes no sense! He was cowering like a whimp!"

383517

>>383511
>>383513
I take that Jon left the room so I don't have to whisper to Burning.
Jump into the bed next to her.
"That depends on how good you do…~"

383528

>>383514
"I did say it's just stories I've heard."
>>383517
"Mhm. And what role would suit me then?"

383534

>>383528
Slump back on my chair.
"Well he did just puff away and kill the assassin in one strike…"

383539

>>383528
I shrug.
"Whatever you get… I just don't want you to be doing this just because I am in it too. I want you to give your all into it!"

383544

>>383534
"…he what?"
>>383539
"I'd just rather act in something other than boring old Hearths Warming is all…"

383547

>>383544
"In a puff of smoke. Or maybe he was so quick I though he did.
And stabbed the assassin while he was down.
He said that he panicked…"

383553

>>383544
I smirk and nod.
"I'm sure you would. I would too. Maybe we could even ask whoever is in charge of the plays to have something more interesting this year!"

Give her a sly look.
"I wonder if you would like to act some role where I am your husband…"

383572

>>383547
"This sounds eerily similar to the stories I've heard."
>>383553
"Now wouldn't that be something"

383576

>>383572
"No way. Now you gotta tell me!"

383602

>>383572
"I guess you wouldn't like it then…~"

383613

>>383576
"Well supposedly House Falconwreath's old head, Lord Ilistar, founded a secretive guild of masked assassins who always worked in pairs and could vanish into thin air."
>>383602
"I don't think I said that~"

383616

>>383613
"You didn't sound very enthusiastic."

383617

>>383613
"That's so messed up… Why would anypony use assassins anyway?"

383639

>>383616
She hops onto the bed
"Really now~?"
>>383617
"One blade can stop another? One sword drawn can keep another in the sheath?
And, well, there will always be usurpers. Evildoers, heretics, cultists, the like. And among them will be ponies you can't just send paladins to bash down the doors of. Assassins are a more… subtle solution."

383643

>>383639
I nod.
"Really!'

383647

>>383639
Which is funny, because MGS was always against MAD in the first place.
"Bah. I don't like it. There is no honor in attacking a helpless enemy.
And if you ask me, I feel sick now.
Sick that I was thrown in the middle of something so shady and… Wrong."

383655

>>383643
She pushes you over
"You expecting me to prove myself or something?"
>>383647
Deterrence was never an option
"Well, officially those ponies don't even exist. They have no faces, no names."

383667

>>383655
"This only makes it worse.
So what, I helped a nameless pony defeat another nameless, faceless pony who wanted to kill him for some reasonless cause?"
Groan and get up.
"I like this even less than sneaking around."

383668

>>383655
Use my super extra fighting training for the complex maneuver of rolling her on her back so I am on top.

"Am I?"

383673

>>383668
"Oh no~
What ever can I do? I am clearly outmatched here~"
>>383667
"And supposedly, behind those masks, they really have no faces. They cut their faces off so nopony can tell who they are."

383675

>>383673
"Well that's just silly.
And creepy."
Roll not to believe it too much…

Roll #1 6 = 6

383676

>>383673
"Of course you are."
Ruffle her mane.
"You know I always come out on top~"

383682

>>383675
"And that they are all taken from their families in the night, raised to believe in nothing but their duty.
And that they are all actually ghosts of ponies who were betrayed long ago
~oooOOoooOOoo~"
he makes spoooooky gestures
>>383676
Roll to not find yourself face first on the bed with her on top
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

383687

>>383682
'1d10'
Easy peasy

Roll #1 5 = 5

383689

>>383682
Spooky enough for me?

Roll #1 10 = 10

383690

>>383682
>>383689
Please.
I'm stone cold.
Give him a half lid stare and wave a hoof off.
"Sure, and they also eat foals."
Giggle a bit.

383694

>>383687
"Yeah… it seems that you do…"
>>383690
"No, that's the night guards I think."

383697

>>383694
"Maybe this could your reward one day if you do something very well~"

383707

>>383694
Roll my eyes and relax back onto my chair.
"How dangerous.
Luna should pay them more if they are that angry!"

383720

>>383697
"…what could?"
>>383707
"Who knows. Maybe she pays them in moon-cheese.
So, what did you want to really talk about?"

383727

>>383720
Lean closer.
Right next to her ear.
Take a short pause for style.
"You could lead for once."

383731

>>383720
"Uh. Right.
I guess I was just curious about the play. I wanted to try it out.
All that sneaking stuff..
After yesterday night it's really on the back of my mind…"

383737

>>383727
She gives you a dull look
"Oh so now I have to earn that right?"
>>383731
"I can imagine…"

383740

>>383737
I shrug.
"I guess you don't if you don't want to try out that thing you wanted to on Hearts and Hooves day…"

383747

>>383740
"…I'm listening~"

383753

>>383747
Roll off of her to be on my side.
"Nah, you didn't seem interested. Maybe next year."

383758

>>383753
She climbs on to of you
"Please don't be a butt…"

383761

>>383758
"Too late! You missed your chance! That ship has sailed!"

383766

>>383761
She sighs and gets off you
"Sorry…"

383778

>>383766
Boop her on the nose and grin.
"I was joking, dummy~"

383779

>>383778
"And how was I supposes to know that?"

383782

>>383737
And then very uninteresting talk happened.

383785

>>383779
"You weren't~"
Laugh at her.
"You just make a lovely face when you are mildly upset~"

383786

WE COULD MOVE ON TO YEAR 2
GET THAT OVER WITH
HAVE THINGS TO DO AGAIN

OR PUT THIS QUEST ON HOLD WHILE NL IS BACK

383790

>>383786
Year 2.

383794

>>383786
Year 2

383796

>>383786
Year 2 once we have erryone.
Fidget should be around in maybe an hour or something?

383798

>>383786
Not yet please.

I have to think about how Star will change over the course of that year. And Jon isn't here either.

383808

383811

>>383808
>>383785

383821

>>383785
She sits down with a huff, facing away
"As much as I like you Sidus, doesn't mean I'm yours to toy with as you please."

383829

>>383821
Chuckle slightly.
"Are you saying jokes are a no-no in this relationship?"

383835

>>383829
She remains silent and stoic

383846

>>383835
Keep smiling, but lightly caress her sides with my TK.
"Should we get you a 'no fun allowed' mug in our next Canterlot trip?~"

383871

>>383846
"Do you like making fun of me…?"

383877

>>383871
"I am not making fun of you. I am making fun with you."

383884

>>383877
She sighs and turns around
"Okay. Sorry I took it so hard…"
She then climbs back into bed

383898

>>383884
"You have an explosive temper, do you know that? It's here one minute and up in the skies the next…"

383918

>>383898
"…I should get that fixed I guess."

383922

MEANWHILE IN ANOTHER TIME
I look for Vera.

>>383918
"No."
I smile.
"We should. I'm here to help if you want to improve!""

383924

>>383922
And I look at a spoon.
In the dinery.

383932

>>383924
Sit down in a seat that faces her.
"Hey there. Anything interesting about that spoon?"

383936

>>383932
"I can't decide what to eat."
Look up at him.
"Anything up? Sorry for bursting into you and Burning like that, this morning."

383952

>>383922
She hugs you
"Thanks…"
kissu kissu
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

383957

>>383936
"Oh… yeeeaaah, that was a situation, but got it all ironed out now. So deciding what to eat is your biggest problem right now?"

>>383952
"…are you still upset at the joke?"

383963

>>383957
"Kind of.
Do you know about a group called Lordblades?"

383967

>>383957
"…a little…"

383969

>>383963
Lean back in my chair.
"Go on."

>>383967
Caress her neck.
"Over a teeny tiny joke like that?"

383972

>>383969
"You know the guy we saved yesterday? The old noble?
Supposedly his dad founded this organization of…
Assassins, that work for the Sisters…
Which would explain a lot, really…"

383975

>>383972
"…Yeah, and?"

383977

>>383969
"It's dumb… I know…"

383981

>>383975
"And I don't like it.
I don't like assassins and sneaking around and stuff."
Look the other way.

383993

>>383981
"Oh, Jon told me about that. I got you covered."

>>383977
"Shh… we'll work on that."

383996

>>383993
Cock a brow.
"He told you about what now?"

384000

>>383996
"That you need help."

384002

>>384000
"Okay. Stop. Start over. Just what did he tell you?"

384006

>>383993
She tightens the hug
"okay…"

384011

>>384002
"That you need something from a certian collection?"

>>384006
"Don't feel bad about it~"

384018

>>384011
"Everypony knows about it by now, uh?"
Groan.
"Yeah, I need to get in there. Balsa told me you are trying too?"

384034

>>384018
"I will get in there, excuse you. I already have a lead he might not."

384040

>>384034
"Okay. I've gotta walk in there too."

384043

>>384040
"That's not that easy."

384051

>>384043
"Either I help you or I help Balsa. Choose."

384076

>>384051
"I will help you, but I'm not sure you have the capability to get down there."

384092

>>384076
"Tall words coming from the stallion who lost three times in a row."
Smirk at him.

384097

>>384092
"Sorry? I can't hear you over all that squeeing sound?"
Smirk back.

384105

>>384097
Frown.
"If here there is anypony who has to show he's good enough to be my partner in this, that's you!"

384114

>>384105
"Yes, but that doesn't mean you have to follow me there. I could bring you whatever you are looking for."

384226

NEXT TIME ON HOLY HORSES
YEAR 2

384239

>>384114
"I really doubt that. It's… Complicated.
And dangerous."

384241

>>384239
"That's already covered in sneaking down there."

384256

>>384241
"No. We are talking heresy levels of dangerous…"

384267

>>384226
Are we paused, then?

384271

>>384256
Wave my hoof around.
"Pfft, easy peasy."

384281

>>384271
"I want to be there and see."

384292

>>384281
"Why is it so bad if I just bring it to you? I don't even count extra for home delivery!"
Chuckle.

384298

>>384292
"Because I've been told to take it myself. By somepony important. And because it might corrupt you too."

384330

>>384298
"How about this… I sneak in, scout ahead, and see if maybe I can somehow get you down, but only if all else fails. Sounds good enough?"

384335

>>384330
Shake my head.
"I'm no second wheel. You take me there and we do this together.
I can hold my own. And can make stuff happear from thin air. That's gonne help us somehow, no?"

384381

>>384335
"Not if you can't see or hear the slightest motions or noises. Not if you can't hide in the blink of an eye."

384391

>>384381
"Balsa taught me how to do that! I can make it! And I know how to pick magic locks, too!"

384415

>>384391
I eye her up.
"Maybe… maybe. I will test you and we will see."

384427

>>384415
"Damn right we will see! I'm not letting you go there alone anyway."
Good to pause for me.

384430

393353

I think we were about to leap ahead to Year 2

393354

Time to change the nametags?

393355

>>393353
Yes please.

Although you may want to write a massive summary of what happened during that time.

393356

>>393353
Something like that.
But I need a recap on all the advances and great deeds I did and the fame I gathered!

393357

>>393353
We were? So that means Sidus' statue should be done.

393358

>>393354
>>393355
>>393356
>>393357
Your studies continued as planned, further increasing your knowledge of theology, history, strategy, combat theory, magical theory and specialized combat tactics.

Life at the academy proceeded without major interruptions for the most part. Ultimately the play was a success even if it didn't break any notable ground or do anything that remarkable. It was a nifty break for everyone involved, but little more. Perhaps next year something new and exciting will emerge in it's place.

Each and every cadet honed their personal skills as well as their personal lives. Lime and Cherry kept their thing out of sight but not out of mind. Lime finished his work on a fantastic statue. Nock and Vera continued to work out their relation to one another and Nock began taking new interest in the Collection for her own reasons. Sidus increased his pace and did some additional exploration with the aid of Jon and his expanded access to the lower areas of the academy, discovering what is most likely an entrance into the Dungeons beyond the bestiary sewers.
Star and the others in the Night Classes continued their research of the stars, and a ritual they held showed strange signs warning of the coming times. Nobody was quite sure what to make of it.

At the end of year one, you all took your Paladin Oath, making each of you a full fledged paladin. Swearing to fight for the good of Equestria, to defend it's citizens, leaders and interests and to your greatest ability and to the end of your days.
By your sword and faith, by your heart and fury, you were anointed as the grand elite of this empire. Paladins.

Here you stand, ready for war.
-You have gained access to your Multiclass skill at MIN6
-You can now take classes for up to 2 points worth of Paladin Skills. Either 2 1 point skills, or 1 2 point skill.
-You now have unrestricted access to Lethal Weapon Storage, Advanced Combat Arts Study Material, Forge and Magic Training Range
-You have all gained Year 2 Uniforms

393359

>>393358
Lovely.
In that case, I can probably showcase it to Sidus. Go find him.

393360

>>393358
Man I'm good.
So good.
Let's sign up for Shatter class.

And hey, I had acces to the forge before too!
How are my things with the smith? Am I making good progress?

>>393359
"Hello there!"

393361

>>393358
I must still be squeeing from the aftermaths of the oath.
And should probably send my parents another letter. Just in case.

Mom, Dad,
I am a paladin.
With respect, Papaver Field


Time to go looking for the others. Where is Star?

393362

>>393358
>>393361
Around, most likely.
Maybe then clinic? Or maybe the library? Or the dinner hall?
'1d3'

Roll #1 2 = 2

393363

>>393362
And then I join you at the library.
brb

393364

>>393360
I smirk
"It's done, Sidus."

393365

Please sign up for classes here

Shatter - Sidus
Fervor

Spellbreaker
Word of Power
Blast

393366

>>393364
I smirk back.
"Is it? Did it manage to capture the essence of m greatness?"

393367

>>393365
Fervor.

393368

>>393365
I'll take Blast

>>393366
"Yup. Just like instructed."

393369

>>393363
"Oh, hello Vera. What's up?"

>>393365
I'll take Blast against non-moon worshipers

393370

>>393368
"When can I see it?"

393371

>>393370
"It's in the art class. Safely covered by a blanket."

393372

>>393358
>>393365
I'll sign up for Shatter.
Also will have sent a letter back home.

393373

>>393368
>>393369
I said two points
What's the other one for you?

393374

>>393373
Uh… Spellbreaker?

393375

>>393373
WoP will do fine

393376

>>393371
"Thanks!"
Grin again.
"I really want to give something back in return. I wouldn't want to seem ungrateful."

393377

>>393376
I shrug
"Don't worry about it. I liked the challenge and practice of working with granite. We can go check it out whenever you feel like it."

393378

>>393377
"Now is as good time as any, isn't it?"

393379

>>393378
"Sure thing. Let's go then."
Lead him to the art class.

393380

>>393379
Follow him.

393381

Classes logged

Shatter - sidus, Jon
Fervor - papaver

Spellbreaker - star
Word of Power - lime
Blast - lime, star

When you feel ready, I can kick off the classes.
Things we need to get done in Year 2
-Classes
-Forging your Code of Combat
-The Play: Act 2
-Sneaking

393382

>>393381
What class did Burning take?

393383

>>393381
Didn't Star take Spellbreaker last year? Is she going for the ISC variant?
I say we go code first, then classes. Then the play for that last bit of light-hearted fun before we get to sneakery.

393384

>>393382
Silly Lordblade, Brotherhood pets don't level up
>>393383
Why yes, yes she did.
I guess someone needs to pay more attention here.

393385

>>393384
What, she skips classes?

393386

>>393385
That's the cost of a cocksock, Sidus.

393387

>>393386
Shut up Jon you beta virgin you know shit about mares

393388

>>393384
WoP doesn't quite fit Star, even with all the development.

I'll just have her have Blast alone then. Whatever, who needs skills anyway?

393389

>>393388
You could take defense mastery.

393390

>>393389
Sure, that could work if that's allowed.

393391

I guess we've arrived at the art classes?
Take off the blanket off of the statue to show Sidus.
"Tadaa!"

393392

>>393365
>>393381
Blast and ISC.

393393

>>393392
>>393390
Shatter - sidus, Jon
Fervor - papaver

Spellbreaker - star
Word of Power - lime
Blast - lime, star, Nock

ISC - Nock
Defense Mastery - Star

393394

>>393391
Can I get a description on that, DM?

393395

>>393393
Seems good to me.

393396

>>393394
>>393391
The statue is quite a sight to behold. Nearly life-size, with an immaculate attention to detail. Some features have even been enhanced a little for the sake of heroic portrayal, such as cutting down on the pudgy belly. Topping it all off is an intimidating pose, and remarkably well done weapons. Making a chain out of stone can't be easy.

393397

>>393393
Back, sorry for that.
Let's find Leaf. I gotta show off!

393398

>>393397
I'll tag along.

393399

>>393396
Hey, I'm not pudgy, that's pure muscle!
I slowly clap and grin.
"Amazing. Simply amazing. If I didn't have Burning Heart I could fall in love with this statue. Stellar work, Lime!"

393400

>>393398
Hey stranger.
Talk with starry eyes.
"It was just so perfect! I can't wait to trot on a real battlefield now! Protect the weak and call out Their name!"

393401

>>393397
>>393398
"Well well, look at you. Paladins fresh from their oaths."

393402

>>393397
Fine, it's not like I wanted to talk anyway!
;_;

393403

>>393402
We could talk. I'm sure I'll be in the library looking up Shatter books.

393404

>>393399
"Ah, it's my pleasure. I'm happy with the result. And I'm happy that you like it too."

393405

>>393400
Give a little smile. "There still some time yet before that."

>>393401
Nod. "Leaf."

393406

>>393403
I'm in the library too! Probably engrossed in another book as per usual.

393407

>>393401
Give a big smile.
"Was it so damn exciting for you too?"
>>393405
"Right. First of all I will have to defeat you!"
Stick out my tongue playfully.
>>393402
Soon.jpg

393408

>>393406
Tap tap.
"Hey there Star. Whatcha reading?"

393409

>>393407
Press up against her.

"I think that's even less likely now."

393410

>>393407
He smiles and shrugs
"That was a year ago for me. Hard to remember. I do recall it felt like the beginning of a new life, to say the least.
For a lot of reasons."

393411

>>393404
"You put a lot of effort into this, didn't you?"
Smirk and offer a hoof.
"If you ever need anything… you know where I am. You just helped with the first step towards my immortality."

393412

>>393408
"Huh? Oh, Jon!"
I hug him
"I was just reading up on Celestial dynamics!"

393413

>>393410
"Right. All that stuff. Hey, I feel new too! No more bad thoughts for me!"
>>393409
Give a little smirk and look her in the eyes.
"I'm learning, you know… Wanna see what my magic can do?"

393414

>>393412
I'll give her a little hug back.
"Celestial dynamics?"

393415

>>393413
"So off to a good start then one and all.
Looking forward to the outings?"

393416

>>393414
"Yeah! About how celestial objects move around and stuff."

393417

>>393415
"Wait, outing? When?!"

393418

>>393413
Chuckle. "I don't think you'd get the chance for a spell."

393419

>>393416
"So it's not just the princesses moving them around?"

393420

>>393411
Shake his hoof
"Aye. And if your marefriend ever wants a similar statue, just ask."

393421

>>393419
I scrunch
"There's more in the galaxy than just the Moon and Sun, Jon!"

393422

>>393421
"Well, I thought Princess Luna had the stars, too."
I'll scrunch a little at her.
"So, what else is there?"

393423

>>393418
"That's what the sword is for!"
Chuckle a bit.
"At least you can keep me in check if something happens…"

393424

>>393420
"Do you, Burning?"

393425

>>393424
"Huh?"

393426

>>393417
"They are a part of second year training. Outings to clear out bandit camps, remove dangerous wildlife, offer guard detail to notable individuals…"
>>393424
He looks around you
"I'm not sure if I'm statue material…"

393427

>>393426
My eyes sparkle even more.
"This is just what I've been waiting for!"

393428

>>393422
"Asteroids and stuff! Comets! You think meteor showers happen on their own?"

393429

>>393423
"I'll always be here to keep you safe and controlled, don't worry."

>>393426
>>393427
"The last one sounds not unlike the Gala."

393430

>>393425
"Just asking Burning!"

>>393426
"Of course you are! Just look at you~"

393431

>>393429
>>393427
"Well, it's often longer than one night. I remember I had to guard an ambassador on his travel west and back."
>>393430
She looks at herself
How is she looking this year /10 ?
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 5 + 1 = 6

393432

>>393431
Passable, but that's about it

393433

>>393431
>>393432
I look at her as well.
"You are still pretty as ever… though I might have let you slack off with training slightly. How about this, every morning after I'm done with the forge, we go to the tracks and run together!"

Turn back to Lime for a second.
"How much time did it take to make this?"

393434

>>393431
"What's on the west?"

393435

>>393433
"Quite some time."
I chuckle
"The fact that it's granite made the job take longer. Different materials would make it much easier and faster."

393436

>>393434
"Some recently expanded to area in need of political aid. I forgot what it was called. These days it's a pretty average province."
>>393433
She thinks
"You think I'm getting fat or something?"

393437

>>393436
"Boring. But did you fight something?"
Grin wide and lean closer.

393438

>>393437
"I killed a few ambushes worth of bandits and a pair of assassins. Oh, and a boar. Damn angry thing that was."

393439

>>393428
"I kinda thought Princess Luna took care of those too…"

393440

>>393438
Start giggling furiously.
"I can't waaaait! We gotta train and train more!"

393441

>>393435
"I admire your tenacity, but this was the only material I could get my hooves on. And at least it made sure the statue will last!"

>>393436
I chuckle.
"Of course not. If you will get your statue by my side, where you deserve it to be, I want your legs to be in the best possible shape. Even better than they look now."

393442

>>393439
"That doesn't mean they don't have mechanics on how they move and react to stuff like atmosphere and gravity!"
I poke his chest with a hoof
"You need to read more."

393443

>>393438
"All this between classes? When in the year were you doing all this?"

393444

>>393442
"But I do read…"
I'll rub my chest with a hoof.
"Guess I need to read more than stuff relevant to my classes, then. Speaking of which… what classes did you have in mind this year?"

393445

>>393444
"I thought about it for a while… and I went with Blast classes. And defensive techniques too. The Battlemaster told me I would benefit from the last one."

393446

>>393440
"That's what you're here for right?
What training did you sign up for anyway?"
>>393443
"Outing offers are given when they are needed, and they take those best suited from all who sign up. You are pardoned from classes for the time, and indeed time has been set aside for all Paladins to get training in the field during their second year."

393447

>>393446
"Oh, I got into Fervor class. A friend of mine is there too, and we got some reading done last year!"

393448

393449

>>393441
"True, I suppose."
I chuckle
"Now… the question is what to do with it. Leave it here for the time being? Or ask the headmaster to put it on display somewhere?"

393450

>>393445
"Are you going to be learning from instructor Shield Wall? He's the one I introduced you to last year. Nice guy, but don't expect him to go easy on you."
I'll give her a little sidehug.
"And Blast classes? Can you get angry enough for that?"

393451

>>393450
"Yeah, I trained some with him too! He was really nice!"
I smile
"Crescent has been helping me a whole bunch… Night classes really are great!"

393452

>>393441
"How flattering~"
>>393447
"Fervor?
Hm. I hear that can be damn fun, but everyone I see come out of there looks ragged as hell."

393453

>>393446
"I meant more specifically, when were you off killing bandits?"

393454

>>393449
I nod with a smirk.
"A masterpiece like this needs to be on display."
I chuckle.
"And I think we could put the statue out in the public too."

>>393452
"…You also need to go to your previous manestyle. This makes you look too rough."

393455

>>393454
"It also gets in the way less."

393456

>>393452
"Tsk, that's nothing! I'm strong enough to stand my ground, you know! And all my swords have just that much clarity to them at times…"

393457

>>393451
"That's good. I'm glad you're having fun. Though it's probably a bit late for me to sign into them, since I'd end up a year behind you."
I'll chuckle a little.
"How jealous was she when you told her you got to speak with Princess Luna?"

393458

>>393454
"Good to hear that. I'll have to ask the Headmaster about it then."

393459

>>393456
"I hear it can be most taxing on the body and soul, is all."

393460

>>393457
I wince at the memory, then giggle
"Very."

393461

I'm here.

393462

>>393455
"And what about style? You could defeat foes with your old manecut and say, 'Hah, and I even had hair in my eyes!'"

>>393458
"We could ask him right away!"

393463

>>393459
Shrug and give him a smirk.
"We will have to see in battle I guess!"

393464

>>393461
I'm showing Sidus my masterpiece!

>>393462
"We sure can, if you've got the time. Do you?"

393465

>>393460
I'll smile a little at that.
"Well, maybe she'll sign up for the gala this year, and say hello herself. Princess Luna's actually really approachable, compared to princess Celestia."

393466

>>393464
"Of course I have time for this!"

393467

>>393465
I nod quickly
"Yeah! She totally is! Nicer too!"

393468

>>393466
"Alright, let's go see him then."
To the headmaster!

393470

>>393463
"Indeed, indeed.
So, anything else, Paladin Field?"
>>393462
"Just admit you think I looked prettier before and want it back~"
>>393468
His assistant is there as always
"Paladin. What business?"

393471

>>393467
"Well, we didn't actually get to talk to Princess Celestia, but on first impression that seems to be so."

393472

>>393470
Giggle a little more as he calls me paladin, but shake my head with a smile.
"Sir, no sir paladin Leaf!"

393473

>>393470
"I'd like to ask something of the Headmaster, if he's not busy."

393474

>>393470
Smirk.
"Fine, I want your old mane back."

>>393473
"Important business!"

393475

>>393471
"Well… I'm sure that's the case anyway!"
I grin

393476

>>393472
"Dismissed then. Carry on."
>>393473
>>393474
"let me go as-"
"Let them in."
"…yes sir.
In you go."

393477

>>393476
Head inside!

393478

>>393476
And I guess now I'm free and ready to walk around.

"Wanna do something Nock?"

393479

>>393475
I'll ruffle her mane a little and smile.
"Why, paladin Hopper, I'm beginning to think you're a little biased."

393480

>>393476
Well that was easy.
Enter and bow my head slightly
"Headmaster, I've come to ask you permission to put one of my recent sculpting projects on display."

393481

>>393476
I'll take Fervor as classes.
I'm ready to do classes.
And I'm free and walking around.

393482

>>393479
"… Uh… noooo… of course not! Princess Luna is just… nicer."

393483

>>393477
>>393480
"Sculpting projects?
Hm. Of what subjects, paladin?"

WE SHOULD PAUSE IN AN HOUR
I SOMEHOW DOUBT YOU PEOPLE WILL BE READY FOR CLASSES BY THEN

393484

>>393483
Totally ready for class.

393485

>>393482
I'll chuckle a bit and give her a small kiss.
"I know. I was there, after all. Can't a stallion tease the mare he loves just a little?"

393486

>>393484
We can talk!
we're still friends right?

I'm hopping around and see you somewhere.
"HEY, VERA!" I wave and hop over.

393487

>>393483
"On the subject of me, of course."
Smirk confidently.

393488

>>393483
Ready for class once this is done.
I gesture to Sidus.
"Of him, headmaster. He commissioned a statue and I finished it recently. I quite like the outcome and figured it could perhaps be put on display?"

393489

>>393485
I blush a little as he kisses me.
"Hehe… right. Sorry Jon."

393491

>>393489
I'll smile.
"No need to apologize. After all, you get to tease me a bit too."

393492

>>393486
"Cherry!"
Go over there and bump heads with her!
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

393494

>>393491
"I wouldn't!"

393497

>>393492
Boink.
"wah." I laugh.
Boink you too. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

393500

>>393487
>>393488
"And why should it be put on display? Usually our display pieces are reserved for notable artworks or memorials to great paladins."

393501

>>393500
I nod.
"Exactly!"

393508

>>393497
"Have you heard about the missions?"
Grin big at her.

393511

>>393501
"Try doing something remarkable first."

393512

>>393500
"Well… I was just hoping you'd make an exception."

393515

>>393511
"I will, you can be sure about that. Why not just make it easier and put it out on display right away?"

393516

>>393508
"The missions, what missions?"
I jump in panic.
"Did I miss something? Oh I knew I shouldn't have slept in today."
Run in circles panicky.

393517

>>393512
"Perhaps once one of you ends up doing something remarkable, it will indeed be worthy of display in the grand halls.
You may also ask the art teacher if she wants to display it as a student work somewhere."

393520

>>393516
Roll my eyes and laugh.
"No silly! We get missions this year! Like, going out against bandits or defending the innocents and stuff!"

393521

>>393517
I frown slightly
"… Right. Thank you, Headmaster."
I bow my head and leave, slightly disappointed.

393523

>>393520
Calm down, catching my breath
"Oh, that sounds exciting. We'll have each others back, right Vera."

393524

>>393515
"Because as it stands, you are not worth it."
>>393521
"Dismissed."

393526

>>393523
Fire in my eyes, look back at her.
"Of course! You should see what I can do with my magic now!"

393528

>>393524
"I beg to differ. I just haven't been given a chance to prove my worth yet. What tasks I had so far, I accomplished well, like the Gala."

393529

>>393528
"That is because you are still but young and learning. Your time will come. Believe me on that."
He mutters something. MIN6 to make sense of it.

393532

>>393526
"You should show me, maybe we should go to the training area?"
I clap my hooves excitedly.

393533

>>393529
'1d10'
I have a good perception!

Roll #1 9 = 9

393534

>>393532
"Better the magic training ring, that place is safe!"

And there we went!

393536

>>393534
"What classes did you sign up for Vera? I took Fervor classes?"

393537

>>393536
"You did? So did I! And I think Burning did too!"

393541

>>393533
"…I have bet all too much on it…"
"Was there anything else?"

393542

>>393541
Hey. Psss.
Are we in the magic training ring yet?

393543

>>393537
"Oh it will be so much fun. I'm sure we'll be the top of the class!"

393545

>>393543
"I already got some reading done last year! Can't wait to try it on the field!"

393546

>>393542
Welcome to the Magic Range.
In here, you can't cause collateral damage witn wild spellcasting.

393547

>>393524
I'll just wait outside on Sidus then.

>>393543
>whorelord
cherry pls

393549

>>393541
"Of course it will. And you made a safe bet, believe me. Whatever it is you are betting with."
Grin confidentally.
"So why not just get the technicalities over with and display me?"

393551

>>393546
I'll go sit somewhere and cheer for Vera
Roll for cheering '1d10'

>>393547
Okay Lime~

Roll #1 4 = 4

393552

>>393549
"I have reasons.
Reasons I do not need to explain to you. Go out there and prove yourself remarkable. Then I will display your statue."

393553

>>393546
>>393551
"Ha! Here it goes!"

Summon Swords.

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

393555

>>393549
"Give me a task, and I shall. Or I will just find my own way to prove myself."

393556

>>393553
Clap my hooves.
"Impressive. Can you do hammers too?"

393559

>>393556
The trick is, there should be 3 sword.
Also, it's the first time I actually use this, so I'm waiting for DM's description.
"I… Don't know. Never tried. Maybe?"

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

393560

>>393555
"In time, a task will present itself. Trust me.."

393561

>>393560
pls
>>393553
It's the first time I actually do the many swords thing!

393562

>>393560
"I can hardly wait for that challenge to show itself so I can overcome it!"

With that, I bow, say goodbye, and leave.

393563

>>393559
>>393553
#Summon Swords
Spell
Summons a sword for each point you pass the MIN by. 6=1 sword, 7=2 etc
It can only do swords

393565

>>393563
I derped the mail field with the second post, didn't mean to roll.
So now I've 3 shining swords floating behind me?

393566

>>393565
Around you. Ready for action.

393568

>>393566
Stand serene amidst the swords.
>>393556
"I can't get hammers right like this. Just swords. But yet again, you can't throw hammers…"

Throw one of the swords at a target dummy!
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

393571

>>393568
It misses, and sticks to the floor, then poofs out of existence.

393573

>>393562
"Well crap… I'm kinda disappointed."

393574

>>393571
Frown and throw a second one.
"I still have to get this thing down!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

393575

>>393568
Cheer harder to help Vera '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

393576

>>393573
Wave a hoof around.
"Don't worry. It's not the statue. It's his attitude. I will get it displayed, don't you worry."

393577

>>393574
Their floaty nature makes them act very different from normal ones.
This one hits a wall and poofs out.

393579

>>393577
But I trained with these! That's why I asked for access to the range and all!
'1d10' for the last throw!

Roll #1 1 = 1

393580

>>393577
"Come on Vera, you can do it."
Inspire '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

393581

>>393576
I sigh
"Well… we'll see I guess."
I look up and smile at him
"But thanks for trying anyway."

393582

>>393579
You decide to put a spin on the last throw, but all that ends up doing is making the sword lodge itself in your face.
Roll for damage.
+2 to roll because of >>393580

393584

>>393582
Ouch.

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

393586

>>393584
"Oh no."
Go and help Vera. '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

393587

>>393584
>>393586
It leaves a very visible gash right between the eyes.
The sword then shatters and poofs out.

393589

>>393581
Shake my head.
"No no no, you got me wrong. This isn't a possible future outcome. This is not a promise. This is simply what I will make happen!"
Grin again.
"And you shall be known for the pony who crafted the first statue of me!"

393592

>>393587
"Oh Celestia. Vera, we need to get you to the infirmary."
Are there ponies around? Ask them to get a doctor quick.

393593

>>393589
I snicker
"Alright. Glad you're still as confident as ever, Sidus. World just can't keep you down, can it?"

393594

>>393587
My first battlescar!
Try to get back to my hooves, or at least shake the surprise off!
'1d10'
>>393592
"Uuuuh?"

Roll #1 4 = 4

393595

>>393594
>>393592
You are alone here.
She is bleeding into her eyes.

393596

>>393594
>>393595

"Don't worry, everything will be fine."
Try to carefully help her up '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

393597

>>393595
Bleeding smushes. Put a hoof over it and stand up!

Roll #1 9 = 9

393598

>>393593
I chuckle as well.
"Of course not. It will be pretty embarassing for the World to be defeated by me!"

393603

>>393598
"Well, with an attitude like that, how can I defy that?
I think I'll go speak with the art teacher some more. so I guess I'll catch you later"

393608

>>393603
"Okay. See you later! You know where to find me!"
I guess I head down to the forge now.

393610

>>393597
>>393596
Ok she's up.
Off to the infirmary?

393612

>>393610
YES. MY POOR FRIEND.
CHERRY IS PROBABLY ABOUT TO CRY HERSELF.

393614

>>393610
>>393612
"What's wrong? It's no like I'm about to die or anything!"
Follow her.

393617

>>393612
>>393614
Lets see which nurse is on call
1 Steamship
2 Returning Slab
'1d2'
>>393608
"So, freshly sworn Paladin. How are you feeling, lad?"

Roll #1 1 = 1

393620

>>393617
Smirk.
"Better. Now my very presence will earn the respect I deserve!"

393622

>>393617
"Hello, anypony here?"
Peak inside, while still holding a hoof over the wound.

393624

>>393617
Drag her to the nurse.

>>393614
"Oh shut up, you need a nurse right now."

393627

>>393622
>>393624
"Oh dear… what happened here?"
>>393620
"Still the same old loudmouth I see.
So, how can this smith aid you?"

393628

>>393627
"I was about to ask the same. An weapons needed to be crafted today?"
Also, as Paladins, do we carry our real weapons now instead of training ones?

393631

>>393627
"Minor problem while throwing floating swords of light with my mind."
Wave nonchalantly with a hoof.

393633

Right, let's get back to art class and find the teacher.

393635

>>393631
Nod.
"Please, miss. Can you help her?"

393637

>>393628
Only on Outings. Inside the academy, lethal weapons must remain in storage unless otherwise agreed. Say for, lethal weapon sparring.
"Not today, no. It's a quiet day overall."
>>393633
"So, how does it feel to be a Paladin now?"
>>393631
>>393635
"…lets get you bandaged up."
Rolling for looks of end result
1 - super dorky
10 - mad cool
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

393638

>>393637
Am I a pirate yet?

393639

>>393637
"Hmm… then you wouldn't mind if I made a pair of spiked hoof-gauntlets, would you?"

393641

>>393637
"Really no difference at all, miss. I mean I'm still just a pony like last year. No title can change that."

393643

>>393638
It's between the eyes, not across them. But at least it isn't a turban or anything.
>>393639
"…what for?"
>>393641
"It changes what is expected of you. What duties you carry."

393644

>>393643
"Oh Celestia, I was so worried. Do you feel better, Vera?"

393646

>>393643
"A gift and practice at the same time?"

393647

>>393643
Let's hope it doesn't scar.
It'd be a shame if my first scar was notfrom a battle.
>>393644
Nod firmly.
"I wasn't worried even for a second there!"

393648

>>393643
"I guess that's true."
I look over to my statue
"Say… is it possible to get that thing to be put on display?"

393651

>>393646
"Hrm. You sure are fond of giving gifts."
>>393647
Will it scar
1 - yes, ugly
5 - yes, not ugly
6+ no
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

393652

>>393648
"I do have a display space for student works if you want it set up."

393653

>>393651
At least is a sweet, badass kind of scar.

Ready for classes.

393654

>>393647
I nod still a bit shaky.
"That's good. Oh I was so scared, I thought… but you're allright now."

393655

>>393652
I grin
"That would be great! Sidus will love it!"

393656

>>393651
"You would rather just have it lying around after all the hard work invested into it? Poor weapons would feel so unloved and unwanted!"

393659

>>393655
"Right. I'll set it up where I have space."
>>393656
"A good smith loves all his work, regardless of where it ends up.
But I admit, I, too, love seeing my work put to use."

NEXT TIME ON HOLY HOURSE HOUR
CLASSES
ASSES
AND CLASHES

393660

>>393654
"Don't be silly of course I am! You were with me! Nothing can go wrong when there are friends!"

393662

>>393659
YOU BETTER RUN IT SOONER THAN YOU DID LAST TIME

393663

>>393660
"Yeah, you're right."
I smile a bit.
"I'm happy you're okay."
Give her a hug, watch out for those bandages. '1d10+2'

Roll #1 8 + 2 = 10

393665

>>393663
Giggle a bit in her hug.
"Let's go someplace. Maybe you we can sing something…"

393669

>>393665
Pull back.
"Yes, yes, that's good idea."

393670

>>393669
As we walk, look up and think.
"Know any song about scars?"

393671

>>393670
I think for a second.
Do I? '1d10+1' since I know a lot of songs.

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

393674

>>393671
"Uh…I'm afraid not. I know there are a few about scarred heroes from Eaglescrest, but I don't know those. I'll have to search the library."

409744

Time flies when you're becoming a hero.

Unless someone has something against it, we can consider your classes done and move on to the Trials you must take before you can begin your final test - forging your own code.

409746

>>409744
I guess I spent the time sneaking, exploring, smithing, and spending time with Burning.

409747

>>409744
Well shit. Does this mean year 2 is over?

409749

>>409747
No, it means Year 2 is getting to it's best part.
Read: the part that isn't going to classes and wasting time with NPCs.

409750

>>409749
B-But I like your NPC's!

Fine, let's do this then.

409753

>>409744
Hey, I'm fine with it.
Let's say I got to talk some with Burning while in Fervor class.

409754

All in agreement then.

You should gather at the main hall. The Headmaster has some announcement to make.

409755

>>409754
I'm there, too.

But I have to leave now.

409756

>>409754
Oh boy! Formal attire? If so I should wear my armor!

409757

>>409754
First row.

409758

>>409754
LET'S GOOOOOO

409763

>>409754
I'm here.
Where's my husbando?

409765

>>409763
I'm here too now

409768

>>409756
>>409757
>>409758
>>409763
>>409765
Looks like just about everyone from second year is here…

The Headmaster and Battlemaster take the stand
"Paladins. It has been a long and prosperous year for you. And you are well on your way to becoming that which many would call your best.
However, a few more tasks remain ahead for you.
For one to become a full Paladin, they need a code. A personal, unbreakable law they follow in and out of battle, a guideline to all their conduct.
But that code can only be born from one's own heart. And to see it, to feel it, that heart must first be allowed to open.
And for this purpose, the Trials of Mind, Body and Soul exist…"

409770

>>409768
Ah! I'm ready for whatever trial! It is not even a real trial if I just commit myself to it 100%, it's just how I live!
Grin in determination.

409772

>>409768
Grab Lime's hoof.

409773

>>409768
Nod and listen.

409774

409775

>>409772
I smile reassuringly as she does so

409778

>>409770
>>409772
>>409773
>>409774
>>409775
"Each of you willing to become true Paladins will take these trials. Some will be taken alone, others in pairs, or groups.
It is acceptable to take them in any order, and lessons learned in past trials may prove useful in later ones."
He nods to the battlemaster, who continues
"The Trial of Mind will test your wits. Your ability read foes, understand situations, think on your hooves and above all, be sound of mind.
The Trial of Body will test your limits of strength and endurance. You will bleed, you will sweat, you will scream and swear and suffer. And trough all this, you will be hardened for the life you have chosen.
And the Trial of Soul will test your purity. Your will to do the right thing, to put aside vice and temptation, and to focus on that which is important. To see to it that when the time comes, you will not be found wanting.

And above all, these trials do not exist to prove you to us. They exist to prove you to yourself."

409780

>>409778
I smirk.
"All too easy."

409783

>>409778
I bite my lower lip, a little unsure, but nod anyway.

409784

>>409778
To prove.. Me to myself?
I should take the trial of Soul first.

409785

>>409778
I look at Lime.
"Which one would you do first?"

409787

>>409785
"Whichever one you choose, my love."
I snicker

409791

>>409787
Bite my lip.
"…I don't know…"

409793

>>409780
>>409783
>>409784
>>409785
>>409787
"You will each report to me as soon as you know which trials you will take and in what order.
You will then take a small written exam, and be scheduled for your trials."

409794

>>409791
"Maybe we can see what the rest decides to do first."

409796

>>409793
No use in waiting. Walk up to him.
"Sir, I have decided."

409797

>>409780
>>409784
>>409785
>>409787
Walk over
"So uh… which one will you guys take first?"

409798

>>409793
Turn to Burning.
"We should to this in pair, shouldn't we?"

409800

>>409797
"Uh…I'm not sure yet."
Look at Lime.
"Maybe the trial of Body, it sounds really hard, and I'd like to get that over with."

409802

>>409797
I was too fast for this life ;_;

409803

>>409797
"Trial of the Body of course."

409805

>>409800
>>409803
"I'll do the same then!"

409807

>>409796
"Very good, Paladin. Let's hear it!"
>>409798
"Of course~
Where do we begin?"

409808

>>409800
>>409803
>>409805
"Right. That's fine by me."

409809

>>409807
"I wish to partake in the trials of Soul, Mind and Body in that order, sir."

409810

>>409805
Smile at her.
"Just remember the things I taught you."

>>409807
"The trial of the Body sounds good for you?"

409811

>>409808
"I guess we'll better sign up then. Get it over with."
Nervous laugh.

409812

>>409810
"I will, Sidus."

>>409811
"Y-Yeah!"

409814

>>409811
"Don't worry, I know you'll do great. I believe in you. All of you. We trained hard for this day."
Let's go over to sign up

409816

>>409809
"Paladin Field. Soul, Mind, Body.
Very well.
What of the rest of you?"
>>409810
"Body it is then…
Soul after that?"

409817

Everyone just post your trial orders so I don't mess it up

Sidus-
Vera -Soul/Mind/Body
Star -
Lime -
Cherry-

409818

>>409816
"I wanted to leave Soul last."
Smirk.
"To prove that even with a strained body and mind, we can make the best decisions."

409819

>>409817
Body/Mind/Soul

409820

>>409817
Body Mind Soul

409821

>>409816
"Uh I'd like the test of Body first and Mind and Soul later."

Body/Mind/Soul

409822

>>409817
>>409821
Same for me

409825

>>409819
>>409820
>>409821
>>409822
Vera is such a separatist.

"Good.
Now, there is a small written exam for you all to take. Fill it out, return it to me, and go get ready The trials begin tomorrow morning. Don't worry about reporting in. It will be taken care of."

[Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME:
WEAPON PREFERENCE:
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/N
DEITY:
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL:
-MENTAL:
-SPIRITUAL:
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR):
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:

Return when completed]

409827

>>409825
"Do we have to write a friend and a rival and an enemy or just one?"

409829

>>409827
Just one is enough

409830

>>409825
NAME: Sidus the Great
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Any and all
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: -
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 5
-SPIRITUAL: 5
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Burning Heart, Year 2
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: Be the greatest that I can to fight injustice and protect those who are not as great as I am

409831

>>409825
NAME: Lime Rock
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace
MAGICAL TRAINING: Yes
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 4
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Cherry Merry~
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect our Equestrian ideals, culture and citizens as well serving our princesses.

409832

>>409825
Sigh and take the paper.
"Written…"

Pre-Trial Exam
Please fill in all fields truthfully
NAME: Papaver Field
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Greatsword
MAGICAL TRAINING Y/N
DEITY: The Sisters
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 5
-MENTAL: 4
-SPIRITUAL: 2
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Nock daughter of Spell Seeker, Second Year.
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To fight with all my might in protection of the Sisters and the peace of ponykind, bringing forth the Harmony under Their name.
And in combat, find eternal glory.

409834

>>409825
NAME: Cherry Merry
WEAPON PREFERENCE: 2-Handed Warhammer
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Celestia and Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 2
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Friend: Lime Rock
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE:
To protect the innocent, fight honorably and serve the Princesses of Equestria.

409836

>>409830
>>409831
>>409832
>>409834
Well with that done, I guess you're free until READY, when we begin the trials.

409837

>>409825
>NAME: Star Hopper
>WEAPON PREFERENCE: Mace and shield
>MAGICAL TRAINING Y
>DEITY: Luna
>EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
>-PHYSICAL: 3
>-MENTAL: 2
>-SPIRITUAL: 3
>NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Jonagold Apple
>ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To protect, aid and heal the innocent and to defend our faith against any who want to defile it.

409838

>>409836
MY BODY IS READY!
Turn to Burning after she's done.

409839

>>409836
READY.
But I can spend some time with my husbando, it's been sooooo long.

409840

>>409838
"Feeling ready, I see~"

409841

>>409836
READY, of course.
And until then, find Leaf. I should ask him about the trials.

409842

>>409840
"And you? Are you ready?"

409843

>>409836
I'm ready.

No husbando~ though… But I can still see how Crescent is doing!

409844

>>409839
I'm right here hun.

409847

>>409844
I'll just assume I know about your statue, like I should.

"How did your talk go with the Headmaster? Did they like your statue?" I smile.

409848

>>409842
"I wouldn't dream of not being ready for you…"
>>409841
"Trials, hm? Let me tell you, you're in for quite a ride."
>>409843
She yawns a litte as you poke her awake
"Hey Star~
I guess even the trials aren't enough to fix my sleep issues…"

409850

>>409847
"Uh…"
I look a little embarrassed
"He… didn't look at it. He said I was not worthy yet. Nor that Sidus was worthy."

409851

>>409848
"Be ready for yourself. You must prove our worth not for me this time, but for the world and yourself."

409852

>>409848
"This tells me almost nothing! What are they like?"

409853

>>409848
"That's no good… You need to be… fresh and ready!"
I poke her in the chest with a hoof
"Praising Luna is important, but you can't forget we still have to be ready for anything!"

409854

>>409850
I bite my lip.
"Oh baby..I'm sorry."
Snuggle up to him.

409857

>>409854
"Well… maybe some day, right?"

409859

>>409857
"Of course they will. You're great at sculpting. One day they'll see that too. Just like me~"

409865

>>409859
I nod
"I know… I just have to be patient and keep practicing hard."

409871

>>409865
"You work so hard already. Maybe you need a break?" Eye-wink.

409876

>>409871
I smile and nudge her with my snout
"No breaks for us paladins."

409879

>>409876
I pout.
"But it's been so long since we did something together…."

409881

>>409879
"Well… nothing stops us from choosing to go on a special mission together, right?"
I wink at her

409883

>>409881
I smile and nuzzle you.
"Then brief me, captain. What special mission?"

409884

>>409851
"I know.
But I'll also be there to aid you~"
>>409852
"Insidious is a descriptive word. Designed to pick at your weaknesses and to goad you into failing not from not being able to take it, but on your own volition."
>>409853
"I suppose I could skip a night class…"

409886

>>409884
I smile at her.
"As will I aid you…"
Smirk.
"If you can keep up."

409888

>>409884
"Maybe you should just this once… so you are extra well-rested and twice as ready!"

409890

>>409883
"Well… maybe a little reconnaissance…"

409893

>>409890
"How exciting~. And what is our target?"

409895

>>409886
"I will keep up.
I will.
For you…"
>>409888
"Agreed. I'm sure the others will understand."

409897

>>409895
Place a hoof on her cheek with a chuckle.
"Is there anything you wouldn't do for me?~"

409899

>>409895
"So… which trial are you doing first?"

409901

>>409893
"Well… there are plenty of possibilities. So many places to explore~"

409905

>>409901
"Maybe we could explore one of the secret rooms? See if no nasty firstgraders found them."

409906

>>409884
"That sounds… Perverse! Like something a demon would do!"

409909

>>409905
"And while we're there… well… we could do some other stuff as well."

409910

>>409897
"…yes…
…but not much"
>>409899
"I decided on mind, then soul.
I'm a little scared of the body one."
>>409906
"Perhaps that is the point. To see if we can overcome our temptations and vices.
I hear the tests are customized for every student.
Do you know what they did for my test of Soul?"

409911

>>409910
Shake my head slowly, while looking at him expectingly.

409912

>>409910
"And I wouldn't ask you of things you don't want to do…don't worry."

409913

>>409910
"That's the one I decided to do first…"
I gulp
"Do you… what do you know about it?"

409914

>>409909
I scrunch, and go to the secret room, with him.

409916

>>409911
"They offered me the key to the Collection.
Just left it there, on a table."
>>409912
"…good…"
>>409913
"I just heard it involves testing your physical limits…"

409918

>>409916
"H-how did they know?"

409919

>>409916
Well… I am good at taking hits…
"I wonder how they'll do that… with exercises?"

409920

>>409916
"So what was your creed?"
Keep smirking.

409921

>>409916
>
>>409914
The one with the ladder and stuff.

409925

>>409918
"I. do. not. know.
Maybe they didn't. Maybe they guessed.
…maybe it was all in my head all along…
But… I had to walk past it. Leave it there. Not touch it. Just… move on. Keep going…"
>>409914
>>409909
ARE YOU TWO UP TO SOMETHING NAUGHTY?
Welcome to the special secret room~
>>409920
"It's…
…personal."
>>409919
"Wouldn't know. Probably some kind of obstacle course. Maybe mock combat?"

409926

>>409925
"Keeping secrets from me? Aww."

409928

>>409925
It's called reconnaissance.

Check for any traces that other ponies besides of course, Vera and Notch, might have found this place. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

409929

>>409925
"Well… whatever they throw our way… be sure to stretch so you don't strain your muscles!"

409930

>>409925
how dare you insinuate such unholy things
We're just making sure nobody else knows about these rooms!

Roll #1 3 = 3

409931

>>409925
"I signed up for that one first…"

409934

>>409926
"I… just don't think it's quite ready yet."
>>409928
>>409930
One of the pillows is wet…
>>409929
"Good idea."
>>409931
"Well, good luck then…"

409936

>>409934
Frown.
"I guess… Was it that trial that changed you?"

409938

>>409934
… Wet?
Sniff it. Is it…?

Roll #1 6 = 6

409939

>>409934
I don't touch it.
"I guess I can't blame them."

>>409938
"Uh…Lime?"

409940

>>409934
"Would I judge you?"

409941

>>409938
Smells like candy pony semen
>>409936
"It certainly changed a lot in me… yes…"
>>409940
"You might think it foolish."

409942

>>409934
"So… any other exciting news?"

409943

>>409941
"Let's hope then.
And for what it's worth, I'm happy you made it through."

409944

>>409941
>>409939
"Ah!"
I grin sheepishly
"Yup."

409945

>>409941
"Why would I?"

409946

>>409944
I chuckle.
"Well what did you think it would be, silly?"

409949

>>409946
"Well… uh… someone could have spilled a glass of water?"

409951

>>409949
"In here? Did we ever drink water in here?"
Give him a playful push.

409953

>>409951
I feign a shocked look
"Cherry, we are chaste and virtuous paladins!"

409954

>>409953
Smile fades a bit.
"Yes…yes, we're paladins now, not first graders anymore…"

409955

>>409942
"Not really, no…
I heard there might be a lunar eclipse soon though"
>>409943
"As am I… as am I.
Here's hoping we don't meet tomorrow."
>>409945
"Because yours was better?"

409956

>>409955
"How do you know what was my creed?"
Smirk.

409957

>>409955
Raise a brow.
"Don't meet? What are you talking about?"

409958

>>409955
I jump up
"Oh neat! Uh… don't you mean solar eclipse?"

409959

>>409954
I snicker and move in for a kiss
"I was just messing with you, sugarsweet!"
I press against her slightly
"Now… why don't we relax a bit before those trials tomorrow… I'm sure we'll need to be well rested and calm."

409960

>>409957
"…I may have said a bit too much.
Don't pay any mind to it."
>>409956
"You've told me…"
>>409958
"Wait what did I say?"

409961

>>409960
"Lunar eclipse. You know… uh… where the moon disappears from sight!"

409962

>>409960
Clench my jaw, a bit disappointed, and sit down.
"Okay…
So, before tomorrow rolls over…
Wanna go eat something?"

409964

>>409959
"Mmmm yes. Let's just sit here for while."
Lay on another bed, not dirty, hugging Lime.
I sigh.
"Is this the right thing to do Lime?"

409965

>>409964
I nibble on her ear
"Mmmm?"

409966

>>409960
"…Right, I probably did. And? I'm curious about you, Burning."

409968

>>409965
"This….being together. We're paladins now, we've got responsabilities…"

409970

>>409961
She pokes her head a few times
"I really need to sleep more…"
>>409962
"Sure.
…look, if you want to say something to me, just do it. No use holding it in."
>>409966
"It's about forsaking personal need and desire to enable the greater good to prevail…"

409971

>>409970
I smile at her.
"That's very honorable. I'm proud of you."
Pat her head playfully.

409973

>>409970
I nod
"Maybe you should… Oh! Uh… what did you fill in as your creed by the way? I'm curious."

409974

>>409970
"No, absolutely.
I was just worried for tomorrow's trial, now you said that…
Will they kick me out if I fail?"

409975

>>409968
"Oh Cherry… we can still be together! As long as we do what is expected of us… nopony can stand in between us!"

409976

>>409971
"You sound patronizing…"
>>409973
"To see the needs of the night fulfilled
To spread word of her glory and beauty
I will stand and I will fight
And if need be I will give my life
For the night is a blessed thing
For which I'd gladly sacrifice all."
>>409974
"No.
Failure means you will need to see that those areas where you are too weak are strengthened before you try again."

409977

>>409975
Smile at him.
"I hope so…."
Give him a kiss '1d10+4'

Roll #1 1 + 4 = 5

409978

>>409976
"Oh."
Brighten up.
"I guess it's not as bad as I thought then. And what of the trial of the Mind?"

409979

>>409976
"I told you when I was not pleased with you, haven't I?"

409980

>>409976
I smile at her
"That's… really great! They'll be impressed by that, for sure."

409982

>>409977
That's not how you kiss someone.
Well… maybe it is. In some way…
>>409978
"For me, it was a puzzle of sorts.
A maze, with a certain kind of logic to it. I had to think my way through."
>>409979
"Yes…"
>>409980
"I sure hope so. It's quite a mouthful."

409983

>>409982
Spaghettiroll. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

409984

>>409982
"Well… uh… you should probably rest now… you look really tired."

409985

>>409983
I blush red.
"Uh…I must be more worried about those tests then I thought…."

409986

>>409984
She blinks a few times
"Will you tuck me in?"

409987

>>409982
"Sounds… Doable?"
Give a temptative smile.
"By the way, do you like the scar?"
Giggle a bit.

409988

>>409982
Well… I'm not going to complain
"Uh…. you're really riled up, aren't you?"

>>409985
"Awww."
I wrap my hooves around her and pull her in for a hug
"Come here you…"

409989

>>409982
"Is something wrong, Burning?"

409990

>>409986
"Uh… sure! Come, follow me."
Lead her to her room

409991

>>409988
You really mean I have to do all the shipping rolls around here?
Aawwww~ Hug '1d10+4'

Roll #1 7 + 4 = 11

409993

>>409987
"It's… not horrible.
Got into a little accident did you?"
>>409989
"I'm just worried about the trials is all."
>>409990
She groggily falls on the bed
"I wuw you bed…~"

409994

>>409991
you are the one with the shipping CM!
"You silly mare… you're much stronger than you think you are, you know."

Roll #1 4 + 2 = 6

409996

>>409993
I make sure she's well tucked in.
"… Sleep tight Crescent. May Luna watch over your dreams."

409997

>>409993
"Confidence, Burning! You know doubt is the first step towards failure!"

409998

>>409994
Suuurrreeee. First it's the shipping rolls, then it's taking care of all the foals on my own. No dice, fifty-fifty.
Hug him tightly.
"I'm just so scared of those trials…."

410000

>>409996
She mutters something as she falls asleep
>>409997
"Yes Sidus…"

410001

>>409998
b-but…
"I'll be at your side whenever I can… you'll just have to tough it out and draw strength from your passion."

410002

>>410000
Can I catch that?
I any case, I close the curtains and make sure the room is dark, then leave.

Roll #1 10 = 10

410003

>>410000
"Then?"

410006

>>410001
This is not negotiable. This a relationship not a democracy.

"I just wish I could be as brave as you."

410007

>>410002
"Thanks for this, Star… you really are… lovely…"
>>410003
"Then I'll shut up and stop worrying?"

410009

>>410007
"I'm not telling you to shut up, just to stop worrying. You are a strong mare, aren't you?"

410010

>>410007
Well that's a very kind thing to say.

I'm ready. Guess I'll just wait around.

410012

>>410006
"You are, you just don't realize it yet. Being brave doesn't mean you're not scared… it means you're scared as hell and push on anyway. You can do this. You supported me so much already…"

410015

>>410012
"Ooooh. If you stay with, laybe I can do it…"
Give him another kiss '1d10+4'

Roll #1 8 + 4 = 12

410016

>>410015
>maybe
Freudian slip there.

410019

>>410009
"I aim to be."

410023

>>410015
"Oh yes you can."
I smile as she kisses me
"I know I say this a lot… but you're such a darn good kisser~"

410024

>>410019
"Then don't show signs of weakness. Be a strong and confident mare for me~"

410025

>>409993
Frown.
"Blasted swords.
I would have loved for my first scar to be earnt on the field!"

410029

>>410023
I grin.
"I can't take all the credit. It takes two to kiss."

410030

>>410024
"I am."
She puts on a stern face

410031

>>410029
"That's true…"
I push her down onto a pillow
"Then… most enjoyable things do, don't they?"

410034

>>409825
NAME: Jonagold Apple
WEAPON PREFERENCE: Sword and shield
MAGICAL TRAINING: N
DEITY: Luna
EVALUATION OF OWN HEALTH (1-5)
-PHYSICAL: 4
-MENTAL: 3
-SPIRITUAL: 3
NAME A SIGNIFICANT FRIEND/RIVAL/ENEMY FROM THE ACADEMY (ANY YEAR): Star Hopper
ESSAY - IN SHORT, WRITE WHAT YOU THINK YOUR OWN CREED OF CONDUCT SHOULD BE: To defend those who cannot defend themselves, uphold the virtues of a paladin's conduct, and above all else bring good into the world.

Preferred trial order: Mind - body - soul.

And now I'm here.

410035

>>410030
"That's good to hear. That's the Burning I love."

410036

410039

>>410031
Bedroom eyes as he pushes me down.
"I thought we were just here for some reconnaisance~"

410041

>>410036
Hey there.
And I suppose I'll find myself somewhere. The library, maybe. Going to probably have to study to prepare for the trial of mind.

410042

>>410035
She gives a sharp, confident nod
"Anything you need before the trials?"

410043

>>410039
"Well uh… doesn't bodily reconnaissance count?"
I smirk down at her

410044

>>410041
And I'll approach him and tap him on the shoulder
"Jon?"

410045

>>410044
"Hmm? Hey there Star. What's up?"

410046

>>410042
"I am as ready as I can be."
Grin.
"Though I'm open to ideas if you have any."

410047

>>410045
"Did you… sign up for the trials? I couldn't find you anywhere, sorry…"

410048

410050

>>410047
I'll nod.
"I got a late start today, so I missed the assembly. Sorry."
I'll put the book I've got down.
"Signed up for the Mind trial first, since I'll probably have more trouble with that than the Body trial."

410051

>>410025
"Could be worse. I got my first one from making breakfast."
>>410046
"Not much.
Unless you need help relaxing."

410052

>>410050
"Oh… I uh… I'm doing Body first. I'm a little scared…"

410053

>>410051
Raise a brow.
"You never told me that story.
Can I see?"

410054

>>410043
Nuzzle him.
"Oh haven't you explored enough of me already?"

410055

>>410052
"You'll be fine. You've been training with instructor Shield Wall and myself when it comes to defense, and you've really improved."
I'll give her a little smile.
"Besides, you remember that first physical test? You ended up lasting longer than I did."

410056

>>410054
"Mmmm… it doesn't hurt to doublecheck… you know… just to make sure I know every nook and cranny~"

410057

>>410051
"We could relax together, yes."
Chuckle, and lean closer.
"Let's just keep it relaxing though, wouldn't want to tire ourself before the big day, do we?"

410058

>>410055
"But this is like… completely different! What if… I fail? W-What if I get sent home for failing?"

410061

>>410058
"You won't get sent home. And you won't fail. Because you are Star Hopper, paladin and love of my life."
I'll blush a little at that last part.
"And I know you have it in you to succeed."

410062

>>410053
"Not out here in public you can't."
>>410057
"Now what ever made you think I meant more than relaxing, hm~"

410064

>>410061
I gulp
"R-Right… I can't disappoint you… or Luna… or our friends…"

410065

>>410062
Smack her ass with my tail.
"I have not the slightest of idea.~"

410066

>>410062
Roll my eyes.
"Don't tell me you scarred your flank while making breakfast!"

410067

>>410056
Giggle while I grab him and pull him closer to me.
"It wouldn't hurt~"

410068

>>410065
She keeps an entirely serious face
"Good. It would just be silly to think such things"
She then slips her tail between your legs as the walks past you
>>410066
"I kinda did…"

410069

>>410064
"Hey, don't think like that. C'mere."
And I'll draw her into a small hug.
"You don't have to worry about letting me down, or anyone else. Just worry about making sure you don't let yourself down, and the rest will come naturally."

410070

>>410068
"This defies nature!"
Try not to laugh.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

410071

>>410070
I… Snicker?

410072

>>410067
"My thoughts exactly~"
And now… time for some real fun

Roll #1 3, 7, 7, 4, 9 + 2 = 32

410073

>>410068
Oh my~.
I guess she means I should follow her.

410074

>>410072
'5d10+4'

Roll #1 9, 3, 7, 7, 4 + 4 = 34

410075

>>410072
>>410074
We even roll perfectly the same~

410077

>>410069
I sniffle
"Y-You're right… I should be strong. I… draw strength from L-Luna! I can do this!"

410078

>>410071
>>410070
"Well it WAS a stubborn block of cheese."
>>410073
"Now where do you think we should go to relax?"

410079

>>410077
"More importantly, you draw strength from yourself."
Nuzzling her a little, I'll let her go.
"So, what do you think the trials are going to be about?"

410080

>>410078
"Okay, okay, I believe you!"
Get serious. Maybe one last snicker.
"Well I'm not worried about the Trial of the Body now!"

410081

>>410078
"Hmm… maybe the roof?"

410082

>>410079
I ponder for a moment
"I bet they must be something really special… and deep! To test every ounce of… character we have!"

410083

>>410075
60 without modifiers, plus 20 lovers bonus, plus 10 CM Cherry bonus. = 90/100.

We'll just cuddle here a little bit while I get some food.

410084

>>410075
90/100 ain't bad

>>410083
Oh yes~ kissu kissu~

410085

>>410081
"Let's go then~"
and on to the roof you go
>>410080
"Mine did not involve cheese at least."

410088

>>410085
"Was it some kind of fight or something?"

410089

>>410082
I'll chuckle a little.
"Well, then they're probably going to regret that when Sidus's turn comes up."
Then I'll think for a second.
"The trial of Body is probably just going to be something straightforward, though. Only so tricky you can make a physical test, right?"

410090

>>410085
Let's get comfortable on my back as soon as I am up there.
How's the weather?

410092

>>410090
A little cloudy, but warm
>>410088
"I had to run a gauntlet. Then survive a fight."

410095

>>410089
I take a deep breath
"Right… So… uh… what did you write down as your creed?"

410096

>>410092
"It's always nice out here, isn't it? Especially with you around~"

410098

>>410095
"To defend those who can't defend themselves, uphold a paladin's conduct, and bring good into the world."
I'll roll my eyes a little.
"A little dull, but it's what I would do. How about you?"

410099

>>410092
Wave a hoof around dismissively.
"Pfff, I bet it was a cakewalk for you."

410100

>>410096
"A lot of memories up here…. yeah."
>>410099
"It was until the manticore."

410101

>>410100
Giggle a bit.
"You are saying it just to make me happy!"

410102

>>410098
"Pretty much the same… Healing and aiding the innocent and protecting our faith against…. uh… heretics."

410104

>>410100
Smile.
"Tell me how you feel."

410105

>>410102
"Heretics? That sounds more like Nock, really… What brought that on?"

410106

>>410101
"Well ok, the broken glass would have been worse had I not melted it."
>>410104
"Expectant. Lots of big great things in the future…"

410107

>>410105
I blush
"N-Nothing…"

410108

>>410106
"Hey, that's smart! Gotta remember the trick! You think they'll complain if I keep one of each sword out?"
And then we kept chatting.
Ready.

410109

>>410107
I'll cock my head.
"Star Hopper, are you keeping secrets?"
I'll ruffle her mane.
"Well, I suppose if you wanted to say, you'd say it. I'll just have to wait until you want to."

410110

>>410106
"A future of us~"
I chuckle.
"I can't wait for us to finish at this place."

410111

>>410110
"Soon…
Very soon~"
She leans against you

410112

>>410109
"Not secrets! Just… uh… things I've learned."

410113

>>410111
Nuzzle back.
"And then?~"

410114

>>410112
"Well, you're probably going to have to tell me all about it, eventually. We've been too busy for a real conversation for a while, haven't we?"

410115

>>410113
"And then… we can at last have our dreams fulfilled."

410116

>>410114
I nod
"Right…"

410117

>>410115
"Won't that be wonderful?"

410118

>>410116
I'll budge over a bit and make some room on the chair I'm sitting in.
"Want to just relax a bit until the trials get announced?"

410119

>>410117
"It will…
…almost as wonderful as you."
She puts her tail over yours

410120

>>410118
I nod and settle down next to him, loosely wrapping my tail around his
"Are you… nervous?"

410121

>>410119
Wrap it around her's and pull her closer.
"You flatter me."

410122

>>410120
"As a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs."
I'll relax slightly as she settles down next to me, and I'll wrap my tail around hers as well.
"I've never been considered to terribly bright, and I'm worried I'm going to end up drawing a blank during the Mind trial."

410123

>>410122
"I… you'll be fine! You're smart!"

410124

>>410121
"I'd rather flatter you than flatten you."

410125

>>410123
"But am I the right kind of smart? I mean, sure, I'm not as booksmart as you or Nock, but maybe that's not what they want. Maybe it is."
I'll shake my head.
"And the smartest thing I ever did was fall in love with you."

410126

>>410124
"You couldn't even if you wanted to~"

410127

>>410125
I blush red at that
"T-That's… uh… t-thanks."

410128

>>410127
"Well, it's true."
I'll blush a little.
"I'll just have to hope they ask questions I can answer."

410129

>>410126
"Is that a challenge?"

410130

>>410129
"Is it?"

410131

>>410128
"Well… we did read a lot of books together!"

410132

>>410130
"Probably not. Would be terrible to get you all tired and hurt before the trials."

410134

>>410131
I'll nod, and pull Star into a sidehug.
"If I can't make it to watch the Body trials, know that I'll still be with you in spirit, cheering you on."
And I'm ready.

410135

>>410132
"And you wouldn't hurt me anyway, would you?"

410138

>>410135
"Not on purpose…"

410139

>>410134
I nod
"Right… Thanks Jon…"
I nuzzle into him

410140

>>410138
"Then all is good~"
Give her a smooch.
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

410141

Back and ready.
Anything Lime still wants to do?

410142

>>410140
Even if she would never do it on purpose, that doesn't account for accidents.
Roll for accident horribleness.

410143

>>410142
P-Pls?
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

410145

>>410143
Well no real damage was done, but it sure hurt you.
She looks shocked
"Oh no…"

410149

>>410145
"…Burning?"

410151

>>410139
And I'll nuzzle her back.

410153

>>410149
"I didn't mean to! You slipped!"

410155

>>410153
I sigh.
"…it's okay, don't worry. It was just an accident. Now come here, silly."

410156

>>410155
She looks really worried and sorry, but carefully embraces you

410157

>>410156
Pat her head.
"Don't worry, I'm not even upset. No harm no foul"

410161

>>410157
"Okay…"

410163

>>410161
And then we cuddle and relax.

410164

NEXT TIME ON WAIFUS

THE TRIALS BEGIN
NO MORE BULLSHIT
RIGHT TO THE ACTION

416268

You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.

416272

416273

>>416268
I mean, get my weapons ready on me.
Inspect that crystal ball.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

416274

>>416268
"What the…"
Stand up. Take a long, hard look around inspect this room, the walls, the ceilings.
"Hey! Nopony here?!"
Then, go for my equipment.
Is this my conjured armor or a normal one? And what about the sword and my catalyst?

416275

>>416268
H-Hold on… What's all this then? Inspect that crystal ball.

Roll #1 4 = 4

416277

>>416268
Well this is not odd at all. I suppose I'll get geared up first. Then eye that crystal ball.

416281

>>416273
Paladin Sidus.
Of strong body and sound will. Or so you think.
Soon we will see just what you can endure and overcome.
Your first challenge lies beyond that wall in front of you.
Good luck.

>>416274
It's all normal gear.
The room seems blank, save for two doors and the table.
>>416275
Paladin Star Hopper.
Known for her endurance and tolerance to pain. Not so much for her stamina and agility.
Your body will be tested, to prove how far it has come. Walk into the corridor before you. Just reach the end.

>>416277
Paladin Lime Rock.
You think yourself to be well on your way. Let us see if that assumption is true.
You will need a key to get out of here. Go get it.

416284

>>416281
Wear my gear and secure the sword across my back.
Tie the hoofband tight and finally inspect the sphere.

416285

>>416281
Smirk.
All too easy.
Whatever this is.
Ready a weapon in form of a sword.
Can I climb that wall?
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

416287

>>416281
Easy peasy.
Let's explore this place a little. Any plants around? Anything of note at all or not?

Roll #1 6 = 6

416288

>>416281
I gulp and equip my… gear, then walk into the corridor as asked, praying to Luna for strength.

Roll #1 9 = 9

416289

>>416284
Paladin Papaver Field
You feel your soul is weak.
Simply take the blue door, and you will be done here. However, we will fail someone else in your place. But behind the red door lies much evil that awaits you. So why put yourself through all the trouble?

>>416285
It is a solid stone wall that goes from the floor to the ceiling.
Just like the three other walls.
>>416287
The room is blank. There is just a locked door at the back, and an unlocked door on another wall.
>>416288
There is a deep pit before you, and a rope hanging in from the ceiling over the center of it.

416292

>>416289
O-Oh dear…
Uh…
Reach for it and try to grab it with my telekinesis, then peek into the hole and see what's down there.

Roll #1 8 = 8

416293

>>416289
What.
This is stupid.
I can take up on evil and that other pony has done nothing to wrong me.
Step away from the ball and cock my head.
"Really?"
Summon Swords.
'1d10+2'
And into the red door I go.

Roll #1 4 + 2 = 6

416294

>>416289
Open the unlocked door and peek inside the next room

Roll #1 7 = 7

416295

>>416289
Won't stop Sidus the great.
Break the walls!
With my bare hooves!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416297

>>416292
It's too deep and dark to see the bottom, but the rope is in your reach now.
>>416293
A sword accompanies you as you enter the Red Door.
Inside you find two levers, and a note hanging from them.
>>416294
It seems to be a series of poles jutting out of a deep pit. You can probably jump from one to the next if you try.
>>416295
You chip the wall and bruise your hoof.
Remember your lessons. Remember what you know.

416298

>>416297
Okay… Move closer and look at it.
If need be, use the sword to create light.

416299

>>416297
Slide out the glaive from the sword.
Shatter the wall!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416300

>>416297
Okay then… uh… is there no other way to go besides into the pit? Or do I have to swing over it?

Roll #1 2 = 2

416301

>>416297
The key is probably at the other side! Start hopping those poles!

Roll #1 7 = 7

416303

>>416298
[Both of these levers open the door that lets you move on.
The left one also makes the floor dangerous for you.
The right one simply makes something else happen to someone else]
>>416299
With a great crack, the wall splits.
One more should do it.
>>416300
You could always jump in and see where it leads.
>>416301
Easy. This is just like a little training course.
Soon you reach the other side, and another room. This one has a checkered pattern on the floor and ceiling.

416306

>>416303
Roll my eyes.
Getting really tired of this.
Pull the left lever.

416307

>>416303
Oh great. Fine, let's lower myself down then. This should be fun.

Roll #1 3 = 3

416308

>>416303
Hit it hard with the pommel.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

416310

>>416303
Interesting. Like a chessboard then? How many doors are there? Any other items?

Roll #1 7 = 7

416311

>>416306
Nothing seems to really happen.
Except a door opens up nearby.
>>416307
You slip and fall, plummeting into darkness.
When you reach the bottom, you find that the floor was cushioned.
You can see a large boulder in the room, and a doorway.
>>416308
The wall gives in and crumbles, revealing a way forward.
>>416310
Just a long, fairly narrow corridor. The pattern follows all the way through, and each colour square seems to be an individual floor tile. They look somewhat loose.

416312

>>416311
Cautiously walk over and slam it open.

416315

>>416311
Uh… I peek through the doorway.

Roll #1 1 = 1

416316

>>416311
Smirk.
Told you I got this.
Waltz forward, see what's up ahead next.

416317

>>416311
Tread carefully forward.

Roll #1 1 = 1

416322

>>416312
It leads to a corridor.
There is no visible floor. Just various ponies tied down. They look scared.
>>416315
It leads to a rather long hallway, that has a ladder at the end.
The ladder is too high to reach from the floor.
>>416316
An armoured pony stands before you, blocking a narrow bridge.
>>416317
You step on a black tile, and a white tile shoots down from the ceiling, slashing you on the head.
You yelp and leap forward, landing on a white tile, making a black one on the floor shoot up and hit you in the gut.
Stumbling to the side, you trigger another black tile, and this time the ceiling tile slams across your back, making you sit down, shooting up a tile right under you, which flips you over in a most painful way.
As you land on your back, another tile shoots down from the ceiling, but lands short since you are laying down flat.

416324

>>416322
WHAT?!
Look in disgust and start pulling them up, undoing the knots or cutting the ropes that tie them!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416325

>>416322
I scrunch and look back at the boulder.
Can I use that as a makeshift stand? How big/heavy is that thing?

Roll #1 1 = 1

416329

>>416324
"Just go already!"
"What are you doing?"
>>416325
You realize the corridor inclines upwards.
The boulder seems to be at the limits of what you can imagine you can push.

416330

>>416322
I groan and flip back over.
Okay… I need to keep my head and body low and stick to the black tiles…

Roll #1 10 = 10

416332

>>416329
Look confused.
"Untying you? How on equestria did you even get into this mess? Where are we?"

416333

>>416329
W-Well I should try at least!
My telekinesis is strong… right? Use that to help me push it!

Roll #1 7 = 7

416334

>>416322
Put the sword away, keep my kamas ready.
"It seems I must pass this bridge. Let me pass and we will both be happy and unhurt.
Especially you."

416339

>>416330
The wooshes of the white tiles trying to strike you echo in your ears, but you make it through safely.
After one more door, you find the key. It dangles from a rope above the floor of this next room. There is a ladder near the wall.
>>416332
"There is no time!"
"Just go! Run over us!"
"You won't make it like this!"
"Just leave us!"
>>416333
With great effort that strains you to your limits, you eventually get the boulder up to the ladder. Now you just need to climb it and get to the ladder before it rolls away from under you.
>>416334
"Only a fool would trust their life to a weapon.
Face me hoof to hoof, if you dare."

416343

>>416339
"Make it for what? You guys are making no sense!"
Untie them ALL.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

416345

>>416339
Oh god why
I have to be quick about this! Climb it swiftly!

Roll #1 8 = 8

416347

>>416339
Holster my weapons for now.
"Only a fool would trust their life on thick armor.
Face me without it, and I will defeat you, hoof to hoof."

416348

>>416339
I should probably head back to use this key on the other door but… climb that ladder and see what's up there anyway

Roll #1 1 = 1

416351

>>416343
"THE DOOR IS CLOSING YOU FOOL!"
Getting them all will take at least fifteen minutes at this pace.
>>416345
You didn't even know it was possible to wall jump. But you did. With a back flip. Grabbing the ladder well in time.
>>416348
The key is hoisted higher and the door closes.
You realize the ladder was just leaning on the wall, not connected to or leading anywhere.
>>416347
The armour opens up, and a pony clad in tight cloth and a mask steps out, leaving the armour to block the half way point of the bridge
"Come then."

416353

>>416351
Is it? Not anymore is not!
Conjure a boulder! A staff! A pylon! A hole to keep the door in place!

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

416355

>>416351
Derp
Reach out and try to grab the key then!

Roll #1 10 = 10

416356

>>416351
Yes! Climb up!

Roll #1 7 = 7

416357

>>416351
Dive in, hoof to hoof.
'1d10'
Punch a weak point between his neck and muzzle.

Roll #1 7 = 7

416362

>>416353
You can't quite manage anything sturdy enough?
Rush the door?
Keep untying?
>>416355
You leap out and nab the key before it is pulled up.
The door clicks open.
Behind you, in the darkness of the room, something growls.
>>416356
After a long climb, you reach the other side of the pit you fell into earlier. There is a door here.
>>416357
He tries to block, but your hit lands home.
"Good. Again!"

416365

>>416362
Oh. Fantastic. Open up the door carefully.

Roll #1 10 = 10

416366

>>416362
Land a strike with my other hoof this time!
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

416367

>>416362
Uh oh.
"Reveal yourself!"

Roll #1 4 = 4

416368

>>416362
Take off a piece of my armor.
Impale it with the sword of light, and then fling it towards the door, to lock the rail.

Roll #1 3 = 3

416371

>>416365
You see a locked door, and a key dangling from a chain on your left, in a tight curving corridor.
>>416367
A beast unlike anything you've ever seen stumbles out of the darkness. Like a great dog grasping a large hammer.
"With pleasure, meat."
>>416368
Your toss lands short of the target.
Last chance.
Run or save the rest.

416372

>>416366
You hit him on the face, and he shakes his head a little
"Keep going"

416374

>>416371
Old way, heretics!
Let's throw my actual sword!

Roll #1 6 = 6

416377

>>416371
That's… oddly simple? Take the key with my telekinesis.

Roll #1 7 = 7

416378

>>416372
Of course I'll keep going!
Smirk, punch him again!
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416379

>>416371
Earthern Grasp him!
"Stay there!"

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

416386

>>416374
Your sword lands under the door, which then crushes it to shrapnel as it slams down.
You may now untie the rest of the ponies at your own pace. Not like you have anywhere to go.
>>416377
The key suddenly zooms off into the corridor!
>>416378
His balance shakes a bit
"AGAIN!"
>>416379
He slashes you across the jaw with his hammer
"I'd rather not, thank you."

416389

>>416386
"W-Wait!"
Go after it! Quickly!

Roll #1 9 = 9

416390

>>416386
Rub my jaw with a hoof and frown at… it.
"That's just rude."
Earthern Strike!

Roll #1 6 = 6

416391

>>416386
He just doesn't give up, does he?
Turn around, give him a buck if my rear hooves.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416393

>>416386
Where am I?

416396

>>416389
You run after it for a good while, and after a few rounds around the track you catch up and nab it.
Hey, who knew. You run pretty well these days.
>>416390
Your strike sends him tumbling into the back of the room
"Ow."
>>416391
You hear an audible crack from his jaw.
"Alright. You've proven yourself."
>>416393
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.

416398

>>416396
I smile proudly and open up the door with that key.

Roll #1 6 = 6

416399

>>416396
I look around and grab my trusty warhammer.
"Hello? Anypony here?"

416400

>>416396
"Now back off!"

416401

>>416396
Turn to him, but keep a ready stance.
"Will you move your armor out of the way too then?"

416402

>>416386
Well crap. Let's get this done. And let's hear them.
"So, who are you, where are we and how did that crystal thing know my name?"
Also, conjure a proper weapon for myself.

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

416406

>>416398
There is another blank room here, and another crystal ball.
>>416399
Nope.
Nopony.
>>416400
"That's not what I'm here for."
He gets up and hefts his hammer again
>>416401
"No.
Not until you win.
ON GUARD!"
This time he actually attacks too.
'1d10'
>>416402
You get a conjured spoon.
"Who we are is not something you need to know"
"Why did you not go for the door?"

Roll #1 3 = 3

416408

>>416406
Look into the crystal ball then.

416409

>>416406
Oh, inspect the ball again!

Roll #1 10 = 10

416410

>>416406
Hah
Please
Parry and punch him in his face again.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

416412

>>416406
Counter his attack with my mace

Roll #1 10 = 10

416414

>>416406
Roll my eyes and throw it away. Damn magic. Get my sword halo out.
"Because I am a Paladin, and be I damned if i leave somepony bound and tied as I walk over them to get through a door I don't even care about!"

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

416421

>>416408
Paladin Cherry Merry.
You use your body for many things.
Now we see if it is capable in combat as well as other things.
All you need to do is get past a few doors. The first one is right there before you.

>>416412
You smash him over the head, and he falls over, helpless to fight back any more.
>>416409
Well done, Paladin Star Hopper.
Your body has grown, but has your mind?
We shall let the next guardian be the judge of that.
Amuse him for a while, and he will let you pass.

>>416410
You manage to land a blow
"One for you"
'1d10'
>>416414
"You pass."
The door opens up again as two swords appear
"Go forth, Paladin."

Roll #1 9 = 9

416424

>>416421
Huh?
Look around. Next Guardian?

416425

>>416421
"Surrender!"

416426

>>416421
Raise a brow.
"You are all crazy…"
Go through the door.

416430

>>416421
"Uh…right, Mysterious Voice."
Go over to the door and open it.

416431

>>416421
"Two for me, you mean."
'1d10'
Keep attacking!

Roll #1 4 = 4

416435

>>416424
There is a pony sitting next to a door
>>416425
He's out cold.
>>416426
There is a pit here, with a glass bridge leading over it
"Vera? Vera! Down here!"
…that sounds like… Leaf?
>>416430
Behind the door is another door.
This one has a little slot near the top.
It slides open, and someone peeks out
"Huh? What do you want?"
>>416431
Hit hoof nearly knocks your teeth in
"One each."
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

416438

>>416435
"Two. For me."
I'm not playing around.
Beat him up, he wanted hoof to hoof combat!
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416439

>>416435
I gulp and approach said pony
"Hello?"

416440

>>416435
Time to go back all the way over to the locked door then.

416441

>>416435
Where is he calling from? Can I see what's at the bottom of the pit?
Shoot a sword down there to make some light.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416446

>>416435
Show him my kindest smile.
"Hello, I'm looking for the way out, and have been told I have to pass through this door. Could you please open it?"

416449

>>416438
You can see some blood drip down behind his mask
"Two one."
'1d10'
>>416439
"Hello hello my dear fellow.
I bet you like blue much more than yellow.
How is your mood? Excited or…?"
>>416440
You do eventually make it back past all the crap and open the door.
Here is… another blank room with a crystal ball.
>>416441
You can see him. He is a little way down.
"Vera! I found it! I think.
Hop down, I'll catch you! If I'm right about this we can get to the collection!"
>>416446
"Eh? What did you say? Speak up!"

Roll #1 3 = 3

416451

>>416449
"I said OPEN THE DOOR."
WoP '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416453

>>416449
"I like blue- uh… my mood? Excited! And a little nervous!"

416454

>>416449
That idiot!
Conjure a ladder for him.
'1d10+2'
"No way.
Get up here! You know I don't care about that!
And tell me how in Tartarus you got there!"

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

416455

>>416449
Hah! I did it!
Touch the ball

416457

>>416449
"Give up while you can.
You cannot win against me."
Kick him in the face again.
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416468

>>416451
"Oh ok."
He opens the door
>>416454
"We're in the Proving Halls. I found a way to get inside the walls here, and I'm pretty sure I found a way to get from here to the collection!
And if you're not coming then I'm going alone."
>>416453
He shakes his head sadly
"Not to be rude, but I care not for your mood
Be it bad or good you may as well talk of identifying wood
But do tell, would I look good in a cowl or…?"
>>416455
Paladin Lime Rock
You have overcome much, but much more remains ahead. How is you brain doing? Still hurting?
Well, you get to rub it now.
Beyond that door lies your next task.

>>416457
Your kick cracks the mask.
"Three one.
A good win, Paladin Sidus."
He grabs the armour and dives off the bridge with it.

416471

>>416468
Go inside but keep my hammer ready.
What does the pony look like?
What does the room look like?

416472

>>416468
"No Leaf. You are not going either. Remember what that thing did to you?"
Give him a harsh stare.

416474

>>416468
"Uh… hood?"

416475

>>416468
Dives off the bridge?
Let's hope he's still all right.
Onwards!
Cross the bridge!

416477

>>416468
Onward then. Let's see this next challenge.

416482

>>416471
The room has some pillars made up of stacks of smaller disks. Each pillar having five.
The pony has no ears. No wonder he is hard of hearing.
>>416472
"That isn't your call to make, Vera.
I'm ending this wild goose chase."
He slips back into the hole he was looking out of
>>416474
She smiles and nods
"I would, I would! A hood indeed.
That is a thing I certainly need.
But I should not hold you, for the key is speed
So go ahead, and do your…"
>>416475
You come to another blank room with a crystal ball
>>416477
There is a mirror here in the middle, and a few corridors leading off into three directions.

416483

>>416482
Inspect said crystal ball.

416484

>>416482
"Deed?"

416485

>>416482
A mirror? What an odd place to place a mirror. Anything special about it?

Roll #1 3 = 3

416486

>>416482
"Come out of there or I'm gonna slap your shit!"
Slide down the ladder, send my last sword flying after him, a warning shot.
"Can't you see I don't want to lose you, idiot?"
Growl at him.

416487

>>416482
Poor guy.
Is there a door here?

416492

>>416483
Good job, Paladin Sidus.
You never were in doubt, were you?
This next one will be even easier. All you have to do is think.

>>416484
He smiles and nods
"What a fun game this was. If bit of a word porridge. Go on ahead open that next door hinge.
Just remember, never to binge. Even on a delicious fruit, called an…"
>>416485
It has wheels so it can be moved around. Looking into it, there is no reflection for the door you came in through.
>>416486
"I've worked for years to get here Vera! I wanted to share this with you! You are not stopping me!
If you're not coming, go finish your damn trials."
>>416487
There seems to be an upper platform, about at the height of a full pillar.

416495

>>416492
Oooh. I get it.
I'll make some stairs with those discs.
Can I lift those discs?

416497

>>416492
Too.
Easy.
So what's this next trial then?

416498

>>416492
"And then what, Leaf? You know I'd have to tell them! You fucking know!
So you either get your ass over here or I'm dragging you back up!
Don't make me punch you, you know how close you came to a hook to the jaw once already!"

416499

>>416492
"Orange?"
That totally rhymes right?

416502

>>416492
That's weird… Turn it around and make it face the corridors!

Roll #1 2 = 2

416506

>>416495
No, but you can probably knock some off the pillars to lower them.
>>416497
There is a door on the far side.
On it, is a label.
[Push]
>>416498
"Can't let you ruin my dream Vera.
Not even you. As much as I do love you.
Please just go. Don't make me stop you."
>>416499
He shrugs and opens the door
"Close enough."
>>416502
It reflects two of them. The third comes up as a blank wall.

416512

>>416506
Hahaha. Yes. I'm so smart.
Buck some of them to make a stair towards the upper platform.
earth pon stronk '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

416513

>>416506
"Thank you!"
I walk through the door happily

416514

>>416506
Walk over there.
And push the door.
Duh.

416515

>>416506
This is too easy!
Walk through the one that isn't shown.

416520

>>416506
Start undressing.
"One punch, Leaf.
All I ask you.
First to hit the other.
One punch, you don't even have to promise anything.
Let me see if a punch can change your mind."
Drop the last piece of my armor with a clang and slowly advance towards him.

416526

>>416512
Earth pon is going to break her legs at this rate.
>>416513
Another crystal ball
>>416514
Nothing happens
>>416515
You smash your nose against a solid wall
>>416520
"Vera what the hell are you doing?"

416528

>>416526
Hm.
Pull the door then.

416529

>>416526
Turn to the pony.
"Hey. HELP ME MAKE STAIRS UP THERE" Point to the discs and the upper platform
WoP '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

416530

>>416526
Touch it!

416531

>>416526
Raise a hoof towards him.
"Asking for a fight, of course! You can't have a hoof fight in that damn armor!"

416533

>>416526
That's bullshit! Damn you, brain!
Ack… Go through another one instead then.

416539

>>416528
Yep. That did it.
Beyond the door is what looks like a maze, with corridors leading left, right and front.
>>416529
"You're not the boss of me."
>>416530
Almost there, Paladin.
All that remains is a few trials.
Please enjoy the snack. You must be hungry.

There is a table set on the side with cakes, pancakes, pies and a few other goodies.
On the other wall is a doorway.
>>416531
"You're not asking for a fight, you're asking me to let my dearest dream die!
I've accepted I can't have you! This is all I have left!"
He loosens his necktie and throws it down
>>416533
That's a real hole.
But it ends at a blank wall.

416543

>>416539
"No Leaf, look better. I am asking you to try and hit me. To rush with all your might and see if the thrill of battle is something worth throwing out to reach that damn collection! I will remind you why you are a paladin!"
Gain a guarding position.

416546

>>416539
Go straight ahead for now.

416548

>>416539
Oh.
Ohohoho.
This is a trap!
I wont… I wont fall for it. Ignore the food it hurts and go through the doorway.

416553

>>416539
"CITIZEN, I COMMAND YOU TO AID ME. TOGETHER WE WILL GET OUT OF HERE"

Command '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416556

>>416543
"Maybe to you! But then, it was never even a dream for you! Just some goal you gave up on the second you found out you could survive without it!
What do you know of hopes and dreams! Of success and pride!"
>>416546
You come to some writing on the wall [Turn back]
>>416548
The doorway leads to a corridor.
as you go along it, it gets tighter and tighter, until you can barely squeeze through the other end.
You end up in a room with a doorway, and a large crack on the opposite wall. You can gear fighting on the other side.
>>416553
"Yes ma'am."
He helps you knock the pillars into a staircase, and salutes.

416559

>>416556
I am not afraid.
But I'm not stupid either.
This might either be discouraging or a warning.
Either way, is there any way to continue from here?
Left or right?
Or is it a dead end?

416560

>>416556
Salute him as well.
"Come on, let's get out of here."
Walk up to the upper platform.

416561

>>416556
Can I peak through the crack? If not, open the door and peek through that instead.

416562

>>416556
"What do I know of pride?"
Look at him with anger, but then, smile.
"You are right.
What do I know of pride, a nopony sent away from home. I bet my parents knew about it. About this curse. That's why they did it.
And now you guys are the only thing I've left, damnit!
I won't see you go down in flames!"

416565

>>416559
It appears to be a dead end.
>>416560
"This is your trial, not mine.
Go well."
On the upper platform is another door
>>416561
Through the crack, you see what looks like Jon fighting some big monster
>>416562
His muscles loosen up and he walks over, calmly touching your cheek
"I hoped I could have found a new dream in you…"

416566

>>416565
Enter.

416567

>>416565
Tap the wall with my magic.
Do the wall meets the ceiling, or can it be climbed over?

416568

>>416565
Stand still, not even flincher.
"I gave my life to the fight, Leaf.
I gave my life to being a paladin."

416569

>>416565
I gulp
I hope he's doing okay…
But this is my trial! That one is his! To that door!

416574

>>416566
Up here, you can see a door, barred over with planks.
>>416568
"We both did.
This is clearly not about that…"
>>416567
It's not even a stone wall. It's paper.
>>416569
Beyond the door lies a wide mirror.
You can see yourself in it.

416576

>>416574
I'm not a brute.
I'm not going to kick it down.
But I'm not going to turn back either.
Levitate the sword up, and carve a door for myself into it.

416578

>>416574
I scrunch at my mirror image and look around. Any obvious route out of here?

Roll #1 3 = 3

416579

>>416574
Put a hoof on his shoulder.
"And you'd really leave this all behind, break your oath of service, throw your honor under a rug just…
Just to reach it?"
Hug him.
'1d10'
"There it is. You made it. You are great. Now let's go back."

Roll #1 7 = 7

416580

>>416574
Smash the planks with my hammer. '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

416583

>>416576
On the other side are corridors leading left and right.
An arrow on the floor points right.
>>416578
No.
Just a fat paladin staring back at you with her ugly face.
>>416579
He hugs you back
"…what about your trial?"
>>416580
Good enough, if a little brutal.
Behind the door is another blank room with a crystal ball.

416584

>>416583
Look into the Crystal Ball.
"I'm here."

416587

>>416583
Try to ignore that thought.

Roll #1 8 = 8

416588

>>416583
They told me to turn back, yet here lies the way through.
Go left.
Cautiously.

416589

>>416583
"This whole thing? There is just one way out of here anyway."
Smile at him and start dressing.

416592

>>416587
Just look at her. She barely fits the big uniform. It doesn't even sit right because it as meant for tall strong ponies not fatty fatty muffin top over there.
She probably won't even stand up to her problems and just hides away from them and eats to drown the sadness.
Pathetic.
>>416588
There is a right turn ahead, and a corridor straight on.
>>416589
"Vera I…"
>>416588
Well done, Paladin Cherry Merry.
It's time for you to see if your wits match your brawn. Just go through the checkpoint. Should be easy, right?

416594

416595

>>416592
A left and a right makes a straight.
Go right.

416598

>>416592
"Yes?"
Once I'm done, start climbing the ladder, turning back to look at him.

416599

>>416592
>>416594
"Easy!"
Hop happily to the next door and open it.

416602

>>416592
I did stand up to them! I worked hard to get stronger! Faster! Sidus helped me! Jon helped me! Vera helped me! All of my friends did!

416603

>>416595
A dead end
>>416598
He leans in and kisses you
>>416599
There is a guard on the other side, watching a gate
"Name?"

416604

>>416603
Knock the wall with my magic.
Paper again?

416605

>>416603
"Cherry Merry."
Smile at him.

416606

>>416602
And yet you still do your best to ignore it, rather than facing it. Fighting it.
>>416604
Solid.
Guess you should have remembered that last clue about going right.
>>416605
"Never heard of you. Are you a noble?"

416607

>>416603
Stand still.
Goddamnit.
Once he's done, look at him with a flat stare.
"That's the second time already."
Climb this ladder.

416608

>>416606
The right is never right then?
Go back, and choose the straight path now.

416611

>>416606
W-Well… It's not always easy! But I'll prevail in the end by working hard to become better! A new Star Hopper!

416613

>>416607
"…I guess that's all the proof I needed then."
Once you're up he kicks the ladder away and slinks back inside his hole in the wall.
>>416608
What back?
Don't you remember being told to go back?
There's a solid wall behind you.
>>416611
You can't even look a mirror in the eyes. What hope do you have?

416617

>>416613
I did! And I'll do it again!
Sit down in front of said mirror and stare my image down. I wont let this affect me!

Roll #1 5 = 5

416618

>>416606
"Yes."
Bluff '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

416619

>>416613
"What the…"
FUCKER!
"NO! YOU DAMN IDIOT!"
Swords. Flaming, Lightning, Ice. In rotation, as many as I can.
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

416620

>>416619
Then throw them all towards the hole!

416621

>>416620
'3d10'

Roll #1 3, 7, 10 = 20

416622

>>416613
Clever.
Won't stop me though.
Go left.
If there is a wall there, shatter that.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416623

>>416618
"Ah. Good. Only nobles are allowed past the checkpoint. Carry on."
>>416619
>>416620
>>416621
You collapse the hole. There is no way to get to him now.
The glass bridge is unharmed.
>>416617
The mirror image looks at you, and slowly turns into a prettier, more fit and more confident mare.
The mirror then breaks, revealing a door.
>>416622
A way is revealed.
There is a long ladder here, leading both up and down. The steps above you are painted white, the rest is blank wood.

416624

>>416623
"Thank you, mister. Make sure to keep a watch out."
Hop happily further.
Any door to see?

416625

>>416623
My path and journey leads upwards.
To the heavens.
Up I go!

416626

>>416623
"NOOOO!"
Jump down and conjure myself the biggest, meanest greathammer I can think of.
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

416627

>>416623
I smile happily and walk through said door.
"That's right!"

416629

>>416624
There is.
And an old pony sitting near it.
>>416625
After you climb a while, the ladder breaks.
As you fall, you see writing on the wall
[Up is the only answer]
>>416626
>Jump down
It's a pit. You collapsed the only real exit there was.
Are you sure you want to jump into a pit?
>>416627
Beyond the door is just a small room, and one pony standing between you and the exit.
"Stop."

416632

>>416629
Wave it him.
"Hello there. I would like to enter that door."

416633

>>416629
"Huh? Why? Who are you? Is this a rhyming game again?"

416634

>>416629
The ladder is still there, no?
Oh well.
I will look down and cry.
"DAMNIT YOU IDIOT! WHY!?"

416635

>>416632
"Are you a liar?"
>>416633
"No. This is no game.
You may not go there."
>>416634
>Once you're up he kicks the ladder away
Guess he didn't find a new dream after all.
The door on the other side awaits.

416636

>>416629
They told me to turn back and I had to go forward.
The arrow pointed right, left was the way.
Up is the only answer?
Check what is below.

416637

>>416635
"Of course not."
Smile kindly.
Bluff '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

416639

>>416635
"… Why not? It's the only exit."

416640

>>416635
Well fuck. I failed him. I really did, uh?
I hope whatever's behind that door fills his heart with joy.
Traverse the bridge. Go through the door.

416641

>>416636
You fall into a another room.
There are paths left, right, back, front a ladder up, and a hole on the floor.
>>416637
"Are you a liar in your mind or in your heart?"
>>416639
"Because your trial ends here."
>>416640
Your parents are here.
"Vera."
"We need to talk."

416642

>>416641
Recoil slightly.
"What the-
You can't be real!"

416643

>>416641
Up is the only way.
So they said.
Check the hole.
It's not an endless fall into nothingness, is it?

416644

>>416641
"Don't be silly… Just let me through so this is over."

416645

>>416642
"The academy wrote to us. Asked us to come over."
"Then, it seems we sent you to the wrong academy anyway. You'd be more at home with the mages."
>>416643
Probably not.
Just really dark.
>>416644
"It is already over. It ends here.
You don't have what it takes to complete this trial."

416646

>>416645
I'm not afraid of the dark.
Light up my horn, see if I climb down.

416647

>>416645
"I don't? Let me get through and I'll show you!"

416648

>>416645
Take a step forward.
Poke mom on her chest.
Is she… Is she real?
'1d10'
Say nothing, just look dumbstruck.

Roll #1 7 = 7

416650

>>416641
Stare at him blankly.
"But I'm not a liar."
Bluff '1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

416654

>>416646
It looks like there is a table and a crystal ball down there.
>>416647
"Go back to your studies and try again next year."
>>416648
At least she's solid.
"Magic got your tongue as well as your soul?"
"This is just sad, Vera. And what is this we hear about you being some sexual deviant too?"
>>416650
"Then answer me honestly."

416655

>>416654
Crystal ball seems like a good sign.
Check it out.

416657

>>416654
"What? No! I worked hard for this! I poured my heart and soul into making it this far!"

416658

>>416654
"W-wha-wha… No! I swear! I can keep my magic under control! See?"
Summon Swords.

Roll #1 6 + 2 = 8

416659

>>416655
Took you long enough, Paladin Sidus.
Hope it didn't take too much out of you. Your last task awaits. Purity of soul.

>>416657
"Look at me care, wimp."
>>416658
"Oh great. Our daughter is openly performing heresies in front of us."
"…where did we go so wrong…?"

416660

>>416659
"Hey! Watch your mouth, you jerk!"

416661

>>416659
Roll my eyes.
I arrived just in time, it was a maze, after all.
Onwards!

416662

>>416659
"…"
Dismiss those swords.
"I'm sorry father. I'm sorry mother. I understand why you would want to disown me."

416663

>>416654
"….Yes, I'm a liar."

416665

>>416660
"Make me."
>>416661
You see a door on the wall, and a large crack on another wall. The place must be getting old.
>>416662
"Well at least we only raised a homosexual heretic, rather than a stupid homosexual heretic."
"Why couldn't you just settle down with some nice stallion and become a flower merchant or something?"
>>416663
"In your mind or in your heart?"

416668

>>416665
Lift him in the air with my telekinesis and walk past.

Roll #1 8 = 8

416669

>>416665
"Both. I lie all the time. Constantly."

416670

>>416669
"Why do you lie?"
>>416668
"Good job, Paladin.
Good job."
The door is waiting.

416671

>>416670
Quickly open it up and shut it behind me again, letting out a sigh of relief.

416673

>>416671
The headmaster is here.
"Paladin."

416674

>>416665
Sigh and look down, before raising my head to meet my father's.
"You don't want me in your family anymore, that's been clear enough.
I have another reason to live now. My personal life is not a matter I wish to discuss."

416676

>>416674
"What are you saying?"
"That we don't mean anything to you any more?"

416677

>>416665
Knock on the door, then enter.

416679

>>416673
I bow my head slightly
"Headmaster."

416683

>>416676
They are really trying to hit hard on me, uh?
"You said it. When you didn't answer my letters, when you didn't tell me what the world was like out of the walls of our home!
I have another life now! One without you, one where I have a purpouse and my magic is not a curse I have to bear alone!"

416684

>>416677
You must be so deep down they barely maintain these areas. Hasty plaster has been applied over large holes on the walls of this corridor, and it's easy to see that there are other rooms and corridors on the other side.
…indeed most of those look nothing like the other rooms you've been to.
>>416679
"This is your final, and most important trial. Are you ready?"
>>416683
"Go on then, Paladin."
"Go and live your own life."
They vanish.
You are alone.
There is only the door you came from
And the door forward

416685

>>416684
I take a deep breath and nod.

416687

>>416684
I know what's behind.
Behind there's my one true failure.
Step forward, into the next room.

416688

>>416685
He smiles
"Tell me.
What did these trials teach you?"

416692

>>416687
Before you is a pony with a bag over his head.
But from his cutie mark you know exactly who ir is.
Leaf.
He is bound from rings on the walls, gagged, and looking a little beat up.
Beside him are hot coals, and an iron in them.
A note is pinned to his chest.

416693

>>416684
Sad.
So sad.
Keep walking on the path that is not blocked, ignore the side corridors for now.

416694

Has the ship already sailed, or can I still jump in?

416695

>>416692

Walk over.
"I'm sorry."
Try not to cry.
'1d10'
And then, read that note.

Roll #1 6 = 6

416697

>>416670
"Because I'm good at it."

416701

>>416695
[This heretic was caught trying to sneak into places he does not belong in.
Punish him.]
>>416697
"So you lie for gain, or for fun?"
>>416693
You come to another door, and enter one more winding corridor, leading up.
From a crack in a wall, you catch a glimpse of a great vault.
>>416694
Depends. Do you want the full trials?

416704

>>416701
Sure! Sounds fun. If you get too sleepy we can continue Monday. And every day after that.~

416705

>>416701
A great vault?
Take a peek.

416710

>>416704
In what order will you take the trials of mind, body and soul?
>>416705
Indeed. A massive door, slightly ajar.
You can hear some fighting going on somewhere in the same room where the door is.
The wall crumbles a little as you lean against it.

416711

>>416688
"They…"
I pause for a moment
"… Just how much has changed about me since I first came here…"

416712

>>416701
"When a lie means the difference between having to hurt ponies or resolving something peacefully, then I lie."

416715

>>416710
Body, then mind, then soul.

Start strong, as it were. Nock tested well back in the benchmarks and in the progress levels. Hopefully that pays off now.

416716

>>416711
"And what have you learned, as a paladin?"
>>416712
"So you lie for a greater good?"

416717

>>416701
Kiss him through the gag.
"Sorry."
Take the iron.
Move it inches from his chest. Let him feel the warmth of the bar of soaring metal.
Then, press it against my chest.
Endure.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416722

>>416710
Fighting?
That means trouble.
And where there is trouble, help might be needed.
Can I sneak in?
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

416723

>>416715
You awaken in a strange, unknown place.
Alone, and with no memory of how you got here.
Before you lies your equipment. The real deal. No training replicas.
On the same table is a small crystal ball.
>>416717
You can take it.
You can take it.
You CAN take it.
After you drop the iron, you hear the click of a lock opening.

416724

>>416716
"I try to resist the temptation to lie for my own gain.
Sometimes I fail, but I try my utter best to rise beyond that."

416725

>>416722
You can, if you push the crumbled wall aside a bit.
After some sneaking, you see it.
Balsa, fighting three paladins wearing uniforms of a colour rank you do not recognize.

416726

>>416724
"What is important is that you admit that to yourself.
Go in peace. The way is open."

416727

>>416716
"That faith is the most powerful thing in the world! And not just faith of the divine… I wouldn't have been able to do this without my friends!"

416728

>>416726
I push a little tear away.
"…thanks."
Go in the door.

416729

>>416725
Narrow my eyes a bit, sneak closer.
Who seems to be winning?
And any hints of why they are fighting?

416730

>>416723
Smile.
"It's done. It was my fault. I'm sorry. Really."
Can I untie him before I go?"

416731

>>416723
My eyes bolt open, heart throbbing. I offer myself the luxury of two breaths before I roll forward, snatching up my bow, and slinging my armor across my back.

In one fluid motion, I shoot back against the wall, into the corner, arrow nocked as a I scan the room for movement. Not noticing any, I gently release the tension on the bow and armor myself.

Look around from my corner-vantage. What's nearby? Just a crystal ball? Are there exits? Anything moving in the room?

416734

>>416727
"Then… do you know the creed you will from here on carry into battle? The one you will create to live by, fight by and serve by?"
>>416728
In this room, you are confronted with dozens and dozens of stallions.
A crystal ball sits in the middle of the room.
>>416729
The three seem to be trying to stop him from getting to the vault.
And succeeding.
>>416730
You can.
He stays silent…
>>416731
The room is blank and you are alone.

416735

>>416734
"Uh…hello."
Smile awkwardly.

416736

>>416734
Doesn't matter. Untie him with a smile on my face.
If he does nothing, then I'll just take the door.

416737

>>416734
Coolly approach the crystal orb and examine it, arrow still in place.

416738

>>416734
Balsa is an asshole… but a three on one is not fair.
Not against somepony like him.
Can I disarm one of his attackers with TK?
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

416741

>>416735
"Hey~"
"Hi there cutie"
"Come on in"
"Dat flank…"
>>416736
He just gives you a lingering look
The door is right there.
>>416737
Paladin Nock
Or should I call you Inquisitor
You need a strong body to live through what is demanded of your kind. Now is the time to see how you fare.

A door opens up in the far wall
>>416738
The wall gives in and you fall out into plain sight.
One of the three turns around
"Another one!"
"Protect the collection!"

416742

>>416741
Oh my.
"Uh…sorry but I have to get past here."
Trot over to the crystal ball, blushing.

416743

>>416741
Move ahead.
I hope he will be strong enough to do the same.

416745

>>416741
The collection huh?
That can wait.
I want to do that with Burning.

"Calm down. I'm not here to cause trouble.
In fact, you can all relax now. I can take that student on by myself."
Point at Balsa.

416749

>>416741
I understand. Mutter under my breath, "Semantics."

Proceed warily, then. What lies on the other side of the door?

416752

>>416742
Welcome.
We asked a few of our students if they'd want to participate in this, and we got more applicants than we had room for.
Have fun.
We're waiting on the other side, Paladin

Indeed many of the stallions are already quite… ready for action. Their eyes firmly on you.
>>416743
…it's the headmaster.
"Welcome, Paladin."
>>416745
He ain't listening
"Drop your weapons! What are you doing here? This is a restricted area!"

416753

>>416752
Bow down.
"Sir."

416754

>>416749
It seems to be a bunch of archery targets.

416755

>>416753
"Your final trial begins here. Are you ready?"

416756

>>416752
"….ready for what?"

416758

>>416734
"I will do as they did for me… spread faith and support those who need it! Protect those who can't protect themselves! Heal those who were struck down! Bring hope to the hopeless! That's how princess Luna would want it to be!"

416761

>>416755
"Sir, yes sir."
Stand tall.

416762

>>416754
That's it?

Fire for the bullseye of the NEAREST target. Is there any reaction inside the room?

'1d10+3' Trick Shot

Roll #1 3 + 3 = 6

416764

>>416752
Drop his weapon.
With TK.
"I'm not here to argue, or fight.
And really, just because it's restricted, you should take more care of it. It seems like the place is falling apart."

416765

>>416764
There was supposed to be a roll there.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

416766

>>416756
"We thought you might like a bit of… physical attention."
"We're all here just for you."
a few come and brush up to you, poking your flanks
>>416758
"Then you have learned.
And passed.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up back at the familiar academy.
>>416761
"What have these trials taught you?"
>>416762
As you hit, the target goes down, and you see a door on the far side lift up a little.
Three more hits and you can probably squeeze under it.
>>416765
>>416764
"HOSTILE! TAKE HIM DOWN!"
Another breaks off from Balsa as the third pins him down.
Two Collection Guards face you.

416769

>>416766
Smile sheepishly and take a few steps, blush a bit.
"Oh….that's quite allright, I'd rather just go continue with the test…"

416771

>>416766
"Sir… Those trials taught me nothing I didn't know already, sir.
They just showed me how much I've changed…"
Look off to the side, thinking back at what I said to my parents.
What I did to Leaf…

416774

>>416769
"We are the test."
"C'mon… don't leave us hanging…"
"Please?"
>>416771
"And have they helped you discover your creed, which you will live by, fight by and if need be die by?"

416775

>>416766
"I'm not here to fight.
I just wanted to make sure nopony was in trouble."
Nod towards Balsa.
"Try not to hurt that dumbass. He doesn't know what he is doing. See you guys later, when the time will be right."
Slip back into the shadows.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

416776

>>416766
Frown.

What's their angle…? This is an accuracy challenge, not a strength challenge. Strength would be piercing armor or a long distance shot… although I guess they're watching to see if I just stab them into the bullseye by hoof. Well… I'll play along for now. An Inquisitive mind stays alert for tricks, after all, but perhaps it's not a trick at all.

Wait twelve seconds (two rounds) between each shot. I can afford to take my time here, this is not a speed test. Stand back as far as I can and let fly each Trick Shot with my greatest strength. Draw to the limit!

'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'
'1d10+3'

Roll #1 9 + 3 = 12 / Roll #2 10 + 3 = 13 / Roll #3 8 + 3 = 11

416780

>>416766
Look around, where am I exactly?

Roll #1 6 = 6

416783

>>416774
Take a few more steps back.
"No…I don't think that's right….I'm sorry, I'm flattered that you all came here for me…but I'm a paladin now. And paladins keep their promises."

416786

>>416774
"My… Creed, sir?"
Take a deep breath.
"Sir, I will put all aside for the good of the many. Everything I will do will be for the good of ponykind.
No matter what my friends, what my family might think, I will pull through.
And I will take responsability for my actions and my failures."
Clench a hoof over the place I laid the iron down.

416788

>>416776
Pinpoint perfect.
As you move to the door, you realize all the targets were rigged with crossbows.
Had you missed, they would have fired back…
In the next room you are confronted with some sort of magical barrier
>>416775
As you slide into a shadow, Balsa tosses the third guard onto the two you distracted
"Make way! The collection is mine!"
>>416780
Looks like your room.
>>416783
"We're all paladins here.
I'm a paladin, he's a paladin"
"I'll be a paladin next year"
"I've been a paladin for three years"
There is a door on the other end of the room.
>>416786
"Then keep that in your heart.
And keep it well.
AWAKEN!"
You wake up in your room.

416790

>>416788
What the…
No way!
Look around! Out of the balcony or something! What time is it? Where are the others?

Roll #1 7 = 7

416792

>>416790
Well star is here.
It seems to be morning.

416793

>>416788
I'll rest for a while then.
And I'll rest for a while IRL too.

416795

>>416788
"Well….it isn't right…and I don't want to hurt somepony."
Gallop over to the door, run in and slam it shut.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

416796

>>416792
>>416793
Ah hey th-
Okay.

Was that tiring for me?

Roll #1 8 = 8

416799

>>416788
Roll my eyes.
This is really not the time.
Try to trip him with my TK from hiding so the guards can get him again.
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

416801

>>416795
You trip over a lot of dicks along the way.
But you do make it.
In here, it's just the brothers
"Hey again"
>>416799
He looks right at you as you trip him
"Too late. I beat you here. The collection is mine."

416803

>>416788
Bash through that barrier with a Spellbreaker! '1d10+1'

Roll #1 7 + 1 = 8

416804

>>416801
I'm leaning against the door.
Catching my breath.
"H..Hey."

416805

>>416803
As you do, several Elementals spill out.
A mage on the other end of the room begins channeling a new barrier.

416807

>>416801
Well, let's go outside. See what's going on. Who is where.
Is Leaf still alive?

Roll #1 7 = 7

416808

>>416804
"It's been a while"
"You seem flustered"

416809

>>416807
Sure he is. He's taking a morning walk.

416811

>>416808
"There were a lot of stallions in there and they all….wait a minute…not you too…"
If I was smiling, it would fade now.

416812

>>416809
Rush over and hug him.
'1d10'
"You goddamn idiot!"
Try not to cry, uh?
'1d10'

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

416813

>>416811
"We just came to wish you good luck"
"We're not even supposed to be here"

416814

>>416801
"You are not in yet. And it only counts if you don't get discovered, idiot.
Don't worry, I'll tell you how the inside of it looks once I'll make it in with Burning."
Let out a chuckle, then let the guards handle him.
Back to where I was, and up the stairs.

416816

>>416813
"Oh…okay then…"
I smile a bit.
"Do you know which way I have to go now?"

416817

>>416805
Not on my watch! Roll forward and loose a Trick Shot - Silence arrow at one of the elementals. Make sure I end up on his side of the barrier!

'1d10+3'

"Don't make me shoot you, mage! I don't you to get hurt."

Roll #1 7 + 3 = 10

416820

>>416812
You take him entirely by surprise, tackling him down like the weeping mess you are.
He does his best to comfort you
"Shh… shh… it's ok…"
>>416814
The Headmaster is waiting for you in this room
"Paladin Sidus."
>>416816
"Past us."
"You've made good time so far."
>>416817
The elemental implodes
The other two rush you. Roll to dodge VS me
'2d10'

Roll #1 8, 3 = 11

416822

>>416820
Well okay, nothing to say here.
Try to calm down.

Roll #1 3 = 3

416823

>>416820
Roll to evade, slamming my back against another wall! '1d10+1'

Roll #1 4 + 1 = 5

416824

>>416820
Smirk at him.
"Headmaster."

416825

>>416820
"Oh great."
I get up again.
"Thanks for being here, really. I feel like I can make it now."

416830

>>416823
You avoid one, but the other lands a hit on you.
The mage focuses on casting
>>416824
"Your final trial is about to begin. I trust you are ready?"
>>416825
"Mind if we kiss you good luck?"

416832

>>416830
"I am always ready."

416833

>>416830
Time to stand up. This is embarassing.
"W-why didn't you listen to me, down there?"

416834

>>416830
I go up to them and I give them both a kiss…on the cheeks.
"Oh you…you're such good friends."

416838

>>416830
Close with the mage and stand behind him, and Blast him, so that it will spread to all targets!

"I warned you, just stop now!"

Blast (autocrits primary spellcasters, hits all on crit), '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

416844

>>416832
"What did these trials teach you?"
>>416833
He looks confused at first, then glances down there, and looks even more confused
>>416834
"Friends to the end"
"With benefits"
The last door is past them
>>416838
You blast the mage off his hooves, destabilizing the remaining elementals and revealing a door on the wall

416846

>>416844
Go over there and offer him a hoof up, then.

"Are you alright? I didn't want to pop you like a balloon."

416847

>>416844
What.
Where did he just look?
What's wrong with me?
"You were there! In the room! Near the collection!"

416848

>>416844
I giggle.
"That's over…I met somepony else now.
But I'm hoping we can still be regular friends."

416850

>>416846
"Consider it a passing grade."
>>416847
"…what are you talking about?
Wait…
…did you have your trials last night?"
>>416848
"Guess that'll do"
"Run along now"

416851

>>416850
Wave at them and enter the door.

416852

>>416850
"Well of course I did! And you were there!"

416854

>>416851
The Headmaster is waiting
"Paladin."
>>416852
"I see.
How was it?"

416855

>>416854
Bow my head.
"Headmaster."

416856

>>416844
"Never falter, never give up.
Listen to my heart.
Never stray."
Smirk.
"And I like victories that I earn myself, not ones that are handed to me, because a true victory is doing something challenging and succeeding."

416858

>>416854
"You didn't listen to me…"
Pout, and look down.

416860

>>416856
"Then you know and accept your creed, and will gladly carry it with you to duty and death?"
>>416855
"This is your final trial. Are you ready?"
>>416858
"Well, depending on what that me was doing, I can see it probably being accurate."

416861

>>416860
"Okay… Well, I guess it's normal then. Yeah. Nothing strange."

416863

>>416860
Nod my head.
"I am."

416864

>>416861
"You sure seemed a lot more upset just a moment ago…"
>>416863
"What have these trials taught you?"

416865

>>416860
I nod.
"Yes."

416866

>>416850
Give a serious nod.

"I'll proceed then. Thank you."

Head through the door. What's next.

416867

>>416865
"Then keep them in your heart.
AWAKEN"
You wake up in bed.
It is morning.

416869

>>416867
Stretch.
That didn't feel like a dream.
Hop out of my bed.

416870

>>416864
"I… If that's you wasn't you, but it would be you, then…
I don't know anymore. It's like all that I had to say doesn't matter."

416872

>>416864
I think for a second.
"I learned that, as paladins, we face many temptations, in many forms.
The temptation to break our word, the temptation to use our holy powers for evil and that these temptations don't go away magically when we take our oaths.
But that if we remain vigilant and control our desires rather than let them rule us, we can rise above them."

416873

>>416870
"…oh…
…I'm sorry if I did something wrong here?"
>>416866
You come to another featureless room with a crystal ball
>>416872
"Then you accept this as your creed, and will carry it in your heart and sword for as long as you live?"

416874

>>416873
"For as long as I live."

416875

>>416873
Check it out.

416876

416877

>>416873
"No. You did nothing wrong. Nothing at all."
Smile weakly and leave.
"Thanks."

416878

>>416874
"Then AWAKEN"
You wake up in bed
>>416875
Well done inquisitor.
But a strong arm is nothing if not guided by a sharp mind.
Find your way to your next goal. You can start in the next room.

>>416869
You are now out of bed.
Vera seems to be out in the yard with Leaf.
>>416877
"If you want to talk…
…I guess you don't though."

416879

>>416878
Head in, and tread lightly. What am I up against? A maze? More magic?

416880

>>416878
Make sure my uniform is dashing as ever, then exit through the window.
Well, not jumping out, but the way Burning comes in, with the vines and whatnot.
Then join them!

416881

>>416878
"It was nice. I got to talk with my parents."
Give him the most carefree smile I can manage.

416882