/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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497281

Your destiny is in the making.

Cloud Skimmer

BEEP BEEP BEEP
"Gooooooood morning Cloudsdale! It's your good ol' host of the Morning Feather Rustler, Cloudy Curls!"
"And Sweet Keys is here for your entertainment too!"
"And entertainment you shall have, if you stick around with us for the morning!"
"First thing first, weather! Cloudsdale will remain mostly sunny and happy today, but a few small drizzles have been arranged all over the city for today, so be sure to check the schedule for your area if you want to stay dry!"
"As dry as your humor?"
"Guys, let's cut to music before he makes another one of those."


The host chuckle, and you wake to the sound of the music.
Since you went to sleep early, you feel pretty relaxed.

Curry & Felfire
A new day dawns on the island. The rest of the night went without much trouble, with the crew taking double shifts of guard. The jungle looms over mysteriously on one side, and the endless blue of the sea stretches the horizon on the other.
For Felfire, the shore feels colder than most mornings she is used to.

497285

>>497281
Time to prepare for a day of moving things.
First to get the others to the village, the to get Felfire to the cave.

497286

>>497281
Dreamless sleep do you say?
Traumatized and knocked out cold last night did I hear?

497290

>>497281
Morning routine! Preen my wings, take a shower, have breakfast, do some intense working out…

Roll #1 6 = 6

497297

>>497286
That's right.
And cold morning.
Brrrr!

>>497285
One thing at a time.
Angler - the bearded stallion - is already preparing food.

>>497290
Your morning routine starts out pretty average.
"…eard the stars are much brigher up there. You can even see the mane of Princess Celestia in the night sky!"
"From what I heard, they get the funding for the station from Her Majesty as well."
"Of course. She is a supporter of similar scientific pursiuts."
"You can hear our interview with one of the scientists at 10! Stay tuned!"

497300

>>497297
What…
Where am I now?
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

497304

>>497297
Breakfast. Good. Hopefully something warm.
"Morning, Angler. What's on the menu?"

497305

>>497297
Up there? What are those two talking about? Oh well, I missed it. Get ready for work and leave.

497306

>>497300
You open your eyes, expecting the usual sight but… you're not in the shack! And there are ponies here!

>>497304
He stirs the seemingly scavanged, rusty pot with a stick before answering.
"Just some spinach. I'd make taters with it, if we had any."

>>497305
Oh well, better luck next time.
You arrive at work a good fifteen minutes early.
Go to change right ahead, or stay and chat with anyone you know?

497307

>>497306
Well its' over.
I can just give up.
The shackles are there once more, aren't they?
Try not to cry.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

497308

>>497306
"Pity, that. How close to done is it?"

497309

>>497306
I suppose I could go see dad, but I'd rather not. Aside from that, there's Airhead McBimbo… I guess I can go say hi. Maybe she wasn't feeling well yesterday and just needed some time off.

497311

>>497307
AAAAaa— wait.
The unicorn is one of them! The one that is not that bad! And they don't seem to be paying attention to you or want to hurt you!

>>497308
"Still needs a few."

>>497309
She is spinning around in her chair, looking up at the ceiling.

497314

>>497311
… Or maybe she's just a ditz.
"Airheart."

497317

>>497311
They did just last night!
But it doesn't matter.
Buck told me to go back. I have to obey.
Silently, leave from the main door.
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497318

>>497311
I'll nod.
"Be back in a few, then. Going to check on the little one, see how she's doing after that scare last night."
And then head over to Felfire's ruin.
>>497317
"Little one, are you awake?"

497320

>>497317
>>497318
"Good thinkin'."
…you don't find her where you left her.
Huh.
Strange.

Meanwhile, Felfire is making a beeline for the jungle without making a sound.

>>497314
She jumps from fright, then smiles at you.
"Oh! Hi!"

497321

>>497320
"Are you… okay? Just spinning around like that?"

497322

>>497320
Keep running. Down into the underbushes, I must find the way back…
Maybe if I find the cave from yesterday, that will work!
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

497323

>>497320
That's… odd. And worrying. Did that bastard come back? Look around. Any sign of struggle or where she might have gone? '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

497327

>>497323
Lucky for you, her trails can be seen in the dust and dirt.
Looks like her little hoofsteps are leading to the jungle.

>>497322
You think you remember most of the way…
For now, you manage to sprint to the border and jump straight into some bushes! You can't be seen from the shore now.

497328

>>497321
"Of course! Why wouldn't I be? You mean you never spin around?"

497329

>>497327
Follow them. She can't have gotten far, in her condition. Maybe I'm just worrying too much… she might have just needed to go to the bathroom.
"Little one? Can you hear me?"

497332

>>497329
The trails lead all the way into the green as you follow them…
Enter the jungle yourself?

497334

>>497328
"I don't own a revolving chair, so I lack the equipment. Don't you have any work to do?"

497335

>>497332
I've no real choice, do I? What if the raiders find her again?

497336

>>497327
Okay, catch a big breath…
But I have to tell the unicorn..
Somehow!

In the sand or the dirt near the bush, write down…
A sad face. And the bed from back home. And Buck's antlers.

Then keep going.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

497345

>>497334
She shakes her head with a happy smile.
"Nope! Not yet!"

>>497336
You forge on.
The air is warmer here, but it gets darker as the canopy thickens… yes, you are definitely on the right track back home.

>>497335
Not much.
The clear trails end as the grass begins, but you see a little drawing in the dirt beside a bush.
A sad face.
A small rectangle.
…a pair of antlers.

497347

>>497345
I can… Keep going… Before Bucks gets angry!
'1d10-2'

Roll #1 6 - 2 = 4

497348

>>497345
I'll frown. So that's it. That bastard threatened her. Hurt her. Again. Time to go towards the Raider camp. Hopefully I can catch up to Felfire before she gets caught. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497350

>>497345
"Hm. Guess my job doesn't start either for another 10 minutes. How's work for you here anyway? Do you just stay holed up inside all day? Never going into the field at all?"

497360

>>497348
You hear the flutter of leaves above you as you make your way over there… no sign of her yet.

>>497347
You get distracted by thinking about what he might do if you don't get back in time… and get a bit lost. You don't remember the scenery from here.

>>497350
She shakes her head.
"I have much more fun in here! And I'm bad at weather control anyway!"
She giggles.

497362

>>497360
Above? Look up briefly, see what made that noise. '1d10'
Last thing I need's an ambush.

Roll #1 9 = 9

497363

>>497360
Start breathing heavily.
Take this one step at a time. Maybe if I keep going forward I will find the way…
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497364

>>497360
I don't envy her parents.
"Well, if you say so. Still, a bit of a shame we don't see each other more often because of that."

497366

>>497362
Netsy lands beside you.
"Hey, where do you think you're going without a word?"

DC4 to hear heavy breathing from nearby.

>>497363
You think you are moving backwards now… DC4 to hear chatter.

>>497364
"ooh, Oooh! Maybe you could visit me here more often! Then we'd see each other more!"

497367

>>497366
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

497368

>>497366
"The little one wandered off. I was worried she would get picked up by a raider patrol if I didn't find her fast enough…"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497369

>>497366
"You know, we could grab some lunch together today. Might be nice to get to know some people around here that aren't family."

497370

>>497367
You definitely hear somepony! Or someponies!

>>497368
Nothing.
"Oh, damn… why didn't you at least give a shout? I could try and help!"

>>497369
"Oh, I know a great place! It's near too! And free!"

497372

>>497370
"Free? You mean the cafeteria maybe?"

497375

>>497370
"I… well, I was in a bit of a rush. I'm sorry. I didn't think she'd get far, considering what happened last night, and without breakfast to boot."
I'll look a little sheepish.
"I would appreciate the help, though, if the others can do without you for a few moments."

497376

>>497372
She looks proud of herself.
"Yup!"

497378

>>497375
"They are every bit as tough as they look like.
Want me stay above you?"

497380

>>497376
I'm surprised I'm not floating towards her right now. She's certainly dense enough for it.
"Riiight. Sure, that's a deal."

497381

>>497380
She smiles at you.
"Can I do you, Skimmer?"

497384

>>497381
"I'm sorry, what?"

497386

>>497384
"Can I do anything else for you?"

497388

>>497386
"Not at all. I'll be going then."
Let's go get dressed and get out there!

497398

>>497388
You get back to changing rooms.
Another stallion just put on his vest - seems like he is weather captain.

497400

>>497378
"Thanks. That should keep anyone from getting the drop on me."
And I'll get back to combing the forest for signs of Felfire's passage. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497402

>>497398
"Hello? I don't think we've met."

497404

>>497370
Hide!
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497407

>>497402
He glances at you, then turns to you with a confident smile.
"I don't think we did."
He extends a hoof.
"Name's Lancer."

>>497400
She flaps her wings and flies up above.
You still see nothing.
DC4 to hear rustling bushes.

>>497404
You jump into some bushes, making the leaves rustle noisily!

497410

>>497407
Peak out to see who's that.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

497412

>>497407
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

497413

>>497407
I grin right back at him and shake his hoof.
"Cloud Skimmer. Came in just yesterday."

497418

>>497410
The unicorn! And a shadow above him!
Spooky!

>>497412
You the head of the filly poking out of the bushes, with an expression like a deer staring into a headlight

>>497413
He runs his hoof through his mane after shaking your hoof.
"Fresh meat, huh? Make sure not to mess up too badly, I'd hate to clean up after another rookie."

497419

>>497418
I'll sigh in relief.
"There you are! I was worried. You almost missed breakfast, wandering off like that."

497420

>>497418
"No need to worry, I can hoofle myself."

497422

>>497418
NOPE!
Hide back in the bushes and wait for him to leave!
'1d10'
>>497419
NOPE NOPE NOPE!
Start shaking inside the bush.

Roll #1 3 = 3

497423

>>497422
"Little one, it's alright. No one is angry at you."

497424

>>497422
You fall out of the bush, plain in sight.

>>497420
"Good, that's the attitude I want around here. Maybe you'll actually achieve something with that."

497425

>>497423
>>497424
Start backing down.
"He is. He will…"

497427

>>497424
"A certain amount of confidence is never misplaced, in my opinion. Say… I have a question for you, if you don't mind. What's the deal with that mare sitting at the reception desk?"

497428

>>497425
"He will do nothing. You and I are going to go live in that cave for a while, until the boat is finished. Once it is, we can leave the island behind us forever."
I'll hunker down, coming to about eye level with her.
"And I already promised you, didn't I? I'm not going to let that deer hurt you ever again."

497429

>>497427
"You mean Airheart? She's a weird one. Not strong on flying, or on brains for that matter."

497430

>>497428
Shake my head, with a scared, resigned expression.
But I lack the strength to run.

497433

>>497429
"She's… different, that's for sure. Strange to find her kind here at the weather station. How long has she been working here?"

497434

>>497430
I'll look a little sad for a moment.
"Even if you don't believe me, I'm still going to try my hardest to keep you safe, little one. Now, come on back to the light house. It's time to eat."

497435

>>497434
Again, shake my head, weakly, shrinking down as much as I can.

497436

>>497433
"Oh believe me, she does know a thing or two."
You don't exactly know what he means by that.
"Let's see… four years now. Almost five."

497440

>>497435
I'll fold my legs under me, and rest my head on the ground, facing her.
"Is this because of that pegasus last night?"

497441

>>497436
"Dare I ask?"

497442

>>497440
Grow still.

497445

>>497441
"It's wizardy, that's all you need to know."

497446

>>497442
"I suppose so, then. Well, you won't have to worry about him for a while. I hurt him quite badly, so if he knows what's good for him he'll stay far away from you."

497448

>>497445
"I'll leave it at that then. Well, better get to work for now. Have a good one."

497450

>>497446
Stand up, eyes wet, staring back into his.

497451

>>497448
"Stay safe out there."
You exit and leave for the guard booth.
He greets you and hoofs you the com crystal and a map.
"You have a different route today, and the weather schedule has variety too, keep that in mind."

497452

>>497450
I'll stare back, and give a small smile.
"Now, we should probably get you something to eat, don't you think? We've got a long day ahead of us, and you'll need your strength."

497453

>>497452
Lower my head and stay silent, but take a step forward.

497454

>>497452
>>497453
Aww, how cute.

Netsy yells down.
"Two of them! Coming this way!"

497455

>>497451
"I will."
Check the map and get going. From what I understand most of it will be sunny, with several small drizzles throughout the day.

497456

>>497454
Widen my eyes and quickly turn around, scared.
Jump to the Unicorn's side.

497457

>>497455
That's right. To the bottom of the map, there is a schedule attached. Looks like you'll have to keep your area clear until 11, then the weather team will arrive to bring the precipitation.
Roll to see how your area looks.

497459

>>497453
Right, then let's…
>>497454
>>497456
Damn. Where there's two, there are bound to be more.
"Netsy, fly on back to the others, make sure they're prepared for any wandering raiders! I'll handle these two here, and find my way back to you."
Then, to Felfire.
"Little one, I need you to hide in the bushes, alright? I promised you I would keep you safe, so don't worry about them getting to you."

497460

>>497457
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497462

>>497459
Dart to the closest bushes!
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497471

>>497462
You stagger back, but can't hide.

>>497459
"Right! I'll be back to help as soon as I can!"
She flies off quickly.

The raider you knocked out back at the camp and a unicorn mare step out of the bushes.
He has a metal-scrap shiv, while the unicorn levitates a wooden morning star riddled with nails.
He snarls at you.
"You took something from me, haven't you? Took something from the boss, too. One of his favourite toys."
The mare bursts out laughing.

>>497460
As clean as the streets could ever be. Looks like you can relax in the park that is in this area until the weather team comes. There seems to be quite a few ponies there if you want to pass time.

497474

>>497471
No sense trying to talk to them. Use telekinesis to steal the mare's Nailstar and bash the other raider in the face with it. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

497476

>>497471
Sure, let's do that!

497477

>>497471
Silently scream as I see them.
Run! Now!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

497488

>>497477
You bolt back towards the direction of the lighthouse!

>>497474
As soon as you light up your horn the mare realizes what you are about to do and you get a faceful of her weapon, making you stagger.
The stallion circles you to cut you off from following the pegasus.

Curry 1/5

>>497476
You see '3d6' mares, stallions, and kids doing various things at the park.

Roll #1 1, 1, 6 = 8

497489

>>497488
Looks like there's a group of fillies and colts playing, looked over by a stallion and a mare. Probably a small kindergarten group.

497492

>>497488
Keep running and never stop until the lighthouse!
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497498

>>497488
Rub my snout a little.
"So, it's like this, is it…"
I'll make it so that neither of them can get my back.
"And if you're talking about that machete, it was a piece of crap. Couldn't even cut that bastard blue pegasus of yours very well. I got more luck breaking his wing by myself than I did with that filthy thing."
Hmm. Any sticks near my hooves? Vines? Anything? Hell, a small tree would work.

497500

>>497488
>>497489
How cute. Let's just enjoy the sunny weather for now.

497502

>>497492
You run so fast that you even catch up to the flying pegasus, and without paying any mind to anyone, you dive in the lighthouse, and roll under the stairs, tucking yourself in with another magical blanket.
You feel safe.

>>497500
You sit down on a bench and watch the foals playing tag and ball games, giggling and screaming and generally having a great time.
It's pretty relaxing.

>>497498
They both match your motions to keep you surrounded.
You are in a dense jungle. Ther are vines and sticks everywhere. The mare grins.
"I'm sure Stalker will fuck your new little friend extra hard to make up for that."
The stallion behind you leaps at you with the shiv.
Roll to dodge.

497503

>>497502
Man, this new job sure doesn't involve a lot of work!

497504

>>497502
'1d10', then hurl him at the mare. If I can make her drop her club, I can use it. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7 / Roll #2 4 = 4

497506

>>497502
No! Not that! I need to tell them!
The ponies here!
Try to… Shout!
'1d10'
Try to shout to them, tell them that the unicorn needs
"HELP!"

Roll #1 3 = 3

497510

>>497503
Not at all!
One of the colts seems to have trouble flying high, and the other foals use this against him while playing tag. He seems pretty sad from this…

>>497506


….not quite what you wanted.

>>497504
You duck and toss him over yourself at the mare, making him land with a thud on the ground as the mare thinks fast and jumps to the side.
"Maybe we'll keep you alive, so you can get fucked too. You seem like you'd love it as much as she did."

Curry 1/5
Raider 3/?
Raider ?/?

497513

>>497510
"You know, I think I liked it better when the raiders don't talk. Don't have to deal with your breath that way."
Take a short breath, and then launch the mare into the trees with telekinesis. '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497514

>>497510
Well, look at them with a paniched expression!

497515

>>497510
Poor fella. Flutter over there.
"Hey there sport, having trouble with the old wings?"

497520

>>497514
They give each other concerned looks and stand up, reaching for their weapons
Netsy lands in the doorway too.
"Raiders! They attacked Curry! He warned me that there might be more!"
Splinterproof readies her crossbow.
"Crap, where is he?"
"In… somewhere in the jungle! He said we should get ready in case they come for us!"

>>497513
It takes her completely by surprise and her eyes widen as your magical force propels her into a tree, her back making a loud CRACK noise, making her fall to the grass.
His friend snarls at you and dives at you with his shiv again.
Dodge.

>>497515
He sniffles.
"T-They're not old mister!"
He glances back at them, and gives them some weak flaps.
"B-but when I fly high I get this funny feeling in my wings and tummy and I get scared and I… I can't fly like the others!"

497522

>>497520
"Sounds like you've got some vertigo then… are you afraid of soaring high in the skies, lad?"

497527

>>497520
'1d10'
And now that the cudgel is free, I'll dive for it and pick it up.

Roll #1 5 = 5

497529

>>497520
Look as the lots of them runs away and follow closely, hidden under the blanket.

Roll #1 5 = 5

497532

>>497529
They… don't start running just yet.
They get their weapons ready.
"Doc, Angler, Netsy, you stay here.
Scurvy, come with me."
"Aye aye!"

>>497522
He pouts and nods.

>>497527
Your concentration is broken when the shiv shanks your knee, sending you on the ground.
The stallion cackles through the weapon in his mouth.

Curry : Helpless/4
Raider: 3/?
Raider2: Helpless/?

497534

>>497532
Look at them silently.

Roll #1 4 = 4

497536

>>497532
Up. '1d10' And I least I'm closer to that bludgeon. Get a hoof around it.

Roll #1 5 = 5

497539

>>497532
"Don't you worry, it's not that uncommon among pegasi. With some confidence and some extra help and training, you'll overcome it, no doubt."

497541

>>497536
You stand up, but the nailstar floats out of your reach.
Looks like the mare is up again with the help of the other raider.
"I changed my mind, Stink. Let's just kill him fucking dead."

Curry 5/4
Stink 3/?
Raider 5/?

>>497534
The captain glances at you, then at the pegasus.
"Make sure she stays."

>>497539
"You think so, mister? The others always laugh at me because of it…"

497542

>>497541
Widen my eyes and glance from one to the other.
Run back to the unicorn!

Roll #1 3 = 3

497544

>>497541
Right. Well, what do I need a club for, I've got a spear on my head.
But another shiv might be nice. Time to put Stink down and take his knife. '1d10' Stab.

Roll #1 4 = 4

497545

>>497541
"Don't let it get to you, lad. You've got to prove them wrong, work hard on those flying skills and outclass them! See how they'll like that."

497555

>>497542
You can't! The exit is blocked by the mare.
"Sweetpea, you should stay here…"

>>497544
You stab at him but he diverts the spear out of the way, allowing the mare to hit you across the chest with her weapon.

Curry: 3/4
Stink 3/?
Raider 5/?

>>497545
"I just can't! I tried to practice, but when I see them looking I always get nervous!"

497559

>>497555
"Then practice without them looking. Ask your parents or somepony else in the family. We're all pegasi here and even though some don't like admitting it, a lot of us faced trouble while learning to fly. You'll get better."

497562

>>497555
But they don't move away. Grand.
Uppercut Stink, and then keep clear of the nailbat. '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

497565

>>497555
Shake my head! I can't!
Use the blanket! Throw it at her '1d10' and run! '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9 / Roll #2 4 = 4

497572

>>497559
He sniffles again, and wipes his eyes.
"I-I'll do my best, mister!"

>>497562
You close the distance and give him a powerful punch, knocking the metal scrap out of his mouth and sending him stumbling.
You can feel the wind of the mace passing above your head.
"Can't you just fucking die?!"
She seems to be growing angry.

Curry 3/4
Stink Helpless/?
Raider 5/?

>>497565
"Wha-"
You throw the blanket on her head! Master plan! Now all you have to do is sprint past her legs and -whoa, tripping on the blanket wasn't in the plans.
Still, you are out of the lighthouse!

497574

>>497572
Scramble to my hooves and keep running!
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

497575

>>497572
"Good lad. Don't you give up hope now."
Pat him on the head and flutter off again. Is it time already?

497576

>>497572
Pick up the shank of metal, and stab the other raider.
"Sorry, I've got too many things to live for."
Shankity shank. '1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497578

>>497574
You stand up only to trip again.
"Hey! Wait! Don't go!"

>>497575
He smiles when you do so.
And seems like it, yes.
You can see the weather team coming your way, bringing grey clouds.

>>497576
"Bullshit! Nopony but us on this island does!"
The mace hits your side, making you drop it as soon as you pick it up.

Curry 1/4
Stink Helpless/?
Raider 5/?

497580

>>497578
Oh boy, let's see how they do.

497582

>>497578
Right, let's throw a haymaker her way. '1d10'
"Thinking like that is why you're nothing but a two-bit murderer and thug!"

Roll #1 3 = 3

497585

>>497578
No! I have to reach the unicorn! Not be alone again, where Buck can find me!
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497588

>>497580
They seem to be well organized and move it good speed and accuracy. Soon, the park and the surrounding areas get dark, and ponies find a place to sit the rain out.
Find cover, fly above the rain, or help the weather team?

>>497582
She leans out of your attack and smacks your back with the nailed weapon, making your legs give out from the power of the strike.
She places a hoof on your back.
"Shame that you have to be this way like it. I might just keep your horn. See what I can do with that, hehe~"

Curry: Helpless/3
Stink ?/?
Raider 5/?

>>497585
You spring up and race away, kicking the blanket up behind you for just enough time to make it into the jungle without a trace! You'll be there in '1d3' turns

Roll #1 1 = 1

497591

>>497588
Let's see if they need a hoof, shall we?

497592

>>497588
Bull shit she will. Get up. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

497595

>>497588
Chop Chop.

497596

>>497591
Roll to see how helpful you can be.

>>497592
Her hoof pushes you down when you try to get up, and she punishes you by painfully smacking your horn.
"I bet you are more fun when dead. Maybe try out your horn on her, huh?"
She starts laughing.

497597

>>497595
>>497596
You see a unicorn mare standing on his back, saying…
Oh geez.

497598

>>497596
What a bitch.
Up. Hurl her into the trees again as I do so. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497599

>>497597
N-no!
He couldn't win after all…
Stare at them wordlessly.

497601

>>497596
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497604

>>497601
They got it under control it seems. Without the proper training, you'd just get in the way.

>>497598
She smacks your horn again, and keeps laughing. You still can't get up.

>>497599
You notice the stallion getting back up to his hooves and…. you notice him noticing you.
"Heey there!~ Hahah-ACK"
His laughter is cut short as a thick bolt gets stuck in his throat. He staggers and checks his neck with a hoof, before collapsing to the side.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497608

>>497604
Keep laughing. Jam my head back, and gore her while rearing up. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

497609

>>497604
Riiight. Let them do their thing and just fly above the rainclouds.

497610

>>497604
Scurvy jumps to Curry's help with her cutlass, but the raider seems too mad to care about danger after losing her friend, and smacks her right across her face-
>>497608
And follows the swing to hit your face too.

Curry: Helpless/2
Stink: Dead
Scurvy: 4/6
Raider: 5/?

497611

>>497610
Dammit. Get up for Moon's sake. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

497615

>>497609
You fly up and watch as they start the rain pour.
One day, you'll have those vests too…

"Eddy, this is Bobby, do you copy?"
"I copy, what is it, over."
"I think I found your dentures, over."
"I left it at your mom's place again, haven't I?"


>>497611
'1d10'

The raider steps off of you and you can finally get up.

Roll #1 8 = 8

497617

>>497615
On top of that, Scurvy lands a solid cut across her chest.

Curry 5/2
Scurvy 4/6
Raider 2/?

497619

>>497615
Soon. I must bide my time. Now, let's wait for midday to roll by.

497620

>>497615
>>497617
Wonderful.
Now, while she's distracted, take her nailbat. '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

497624

>>497619
You watch as they let the drizzle pour and take the cloud to the next sector.
Roll for how much leftovers you need to clean up.

>>497620
She raises the mace overhead and you easily snatch it, leaving her defenseless against Scurvy's cutlass.
She falls to the ground and her blood slowly starts to pool around her.
"Motherfuckers… Buck will… f-fuck you all…"

She is helpless.

497625

>>497624
'1d10'?

Roll #1 6 = 6

497626

>>497625
They did a decent job.
You can clear up the few stray puffs of clouds and be get back to the factory by lunchtime.
2d10 for cleanup.

497627

>>497626
'2d10'
I can do it!

Roll #1 3, 8 = 11

497628

>>497627
Oh yeah, I totally forgot about my skills! Mulligan! '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

497629

>>497624
So… Are they all down? Can I breathe again?

497630

>>497628
>>497627
In a very good time you make the sky as sunny as it is supposed to be, without a cloud in sight.
You arrive back at the factory.

>>497629
One is dead, the other is wounded and on the ground but alive.

497631

>>497630
They… Are wounded? They can die?
Curiously move near the one still alive.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497632

>>497630
Now, let's go find that ditz and take her for some lunch.
Bed for me, too tired now.

497633

>>497624
>>497630
"No, Buck will die. And then we will leave this island alive and happy. Now, there's a few things I need to ask you. How many of you are there? What's in that temple? How long has Buck been in control?'

497634

>>497633
"Lick my ass clean and I'll speak."
She laughs and coughs up blood.

>>497631
You take a curious step closer…
Roll

>>497632
She'll be waiting!

497635

>>497634
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497636

>>497635
As you step closer her horn lights up… but Splinterproof walks beside you and steps on the shiv that was glowing in the light of her horn, and bashes her face with the butt of her crossbow.
"Don't even think about it."

497637

>>497636
Whimper and shring away, into a bush.

497638

>>497634
"Or, you could speak and I let you live a while longer."
>>497636
I'll glare at the mare for a moment.
"And I'll thank you to leave the little one alone from now on. Or no force under the moon or sun will save you."

497640

>>497637
Scurvy just looks at Splinterproof, who glares angrily at the raider.

>>497638
She laughs again.
"You are so fucked." Coughing blood. "Sooooo fucked. Ain't that right, Felfire? Tell them, hahah fucking TELL THEM!"

497641

>>497640
I… I can't!
I can't take this anymore!
Break down on the bushes.

497642

>>497640
Right.
"I can already tell we're getting nothing useful out of you other than this stick with nails in it."
I'll look at Scurvy and Splinterhoof for a moment, and make a bashing gesture, and then cock me head towards the raider.

497644

>>497641
You collapse and start sobbing in the bushes.

>>497642
Splinterhoof nods, and bashes the head of the mare a few times with her weapon.
The raider spits out a few teeth, then laughs again, and weakly points at Scurvy.
"Hehehehehehe's going to fuck you first. Then he is going to fuck you."
She points at Curry.
"She will give you to everyone else to enjoy at the same time."
She points at Splinter.
"And then, oooohheheheh, and then it's going to be you, you little shit…"

497646

>>497644
Right. One last bash to the head ought to do it. '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

497653

>>497646
You raise your mace to deal the coup the grace, but Spilnterproof is faster.
She leans over to Scurvy and grasps her cutlass in her mouth, and with a single swing… takes the horn of the raider clear off.
She slowly glances up before starting to scream in agony. Only after a few seconds does she finally the captain stabs her in the throat. She spits the blade back into the hooves of wide-eyed Scurvy, and turns around.
"I don't like my crew being threatened."
She starts walking back towards the shore.

497654

>>497644
Yeah man, I'm just gonna cry in this corner.

497657

>>497654
Bushes don't have corners.

497661

>>497657
But this bush is different. This bush is edgy.

497663

>>497661
Only because you are in there.

497665

>>497653
I'll shrug.
"We'll want to take the shiv the other raider had. I'll try and get the little one to come back with us."
I'll head over to the shrub.
"Little one, it's over. They're dead."

497666

>>497663
That was the implication.

497667

>>497665
Still crying.

497669

>>497666
Stop talking to the voices in your head.

>>497665
Scurvy who is still shaken, nods and picks up the metal scrap.
"I'll catch up with the cap'n now. Please hurry."

497671

>>497667
I'll sit down next to the bush.
>>497669
And then I'll nod.

497673

>>497671
Try to calm down?
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

497674

>>497671
She hurries away.

497675

>>497673
DEAD!
THE RAIDERS CAN DIE!
THEY CAN HURT AND THEY CAN DIE!
THEY ARE JUST REGULAR PONIES!

497677

>>497675
They…
Wipe my eyes clean and look up to the unicorn, without a sound.
Slowly, stop the sobbing.

497681

>>497677
"Are you alright?"

497683

>>497681
Slowly, while still trying to attain a straight face and with big red eyes, nod.

497698

>>497683
I'll give her a small smile.
"Let's get on back to the light house, then. After we have some breakfast, we can get you set up back at the cave. Real blankets will certainly make it more comfortable."

497714

>>497698
Stand up, shakily, and nod meakly, just once.

497718

>>497714
My smile will get a little wider.
And we'll walk back to the light house together.

497721

>>497718
You get back there safely.
#Pause

497806

>>497634
Let's see, where is she waiting?

497807

>>497806
Behind her desk. She is looking at something you can't see without leaning over the reception desk.

497808

>>497807
Flutter over then, so I can see!

497809

>>497808
She is doodling something in a notebook.
She quickly closes it when you arrive and jumps in her seat.
"Oh! Hi there! What can I do for you?"

497810

>>497809
"It's lunchtime!"
Nod at the notebook.
"Writing in your secret diary?"

497811

>>497810
"Yes! No! This isn't a diary!"

497812

>>497811
"Not my business anyway. You ready to go?"

497813

>>497812
"Oh, are we going on an adventure? I love adventures!"
She hops out of her chair.

497814

>>497813
"I don't think the cafeteria is that far away."

497815

>>497814
"Oh!
Lunch! I know a good place! And it's free too!"
She seems excited.

497816

>>497815
Good grief.

"Yes… the cafeteria, right?"

497817

>>497816
"How did you know? Have you been there already too?"

497818

>>497817
"… Let's call it a hunch. Come."

497819

>>497818
She flutters beside you.
"Are we going there now?"

497820

>>497819
"If you're ready."

497821

>>497820
"I am!"
She flutters her wings excitedly.

497822

>>497821
"Alright, you lead the way then."

497823

>>497822
She let's out a squeak and starts walking toward the cafeteria.

There seems to be more room today so you can pick where to sit. The food is '1d10' quality today.

Roll #1 8 = 8

497824

>>497823
Pretty great, something you'd expect from a restaurant actually.

497825

>>497823
>>497824
Let's help ourselves to a nice meal then.
"I just love hay fries, don't you?"

497826

>>497825
She nods as she packs food on her tray.
"Uhuh! Fried hays are the best type of hay that is fried!"

497827

>>497826
I chuckle.
"Truer words were never spoken."

497828

>>497827
She takes a seat at a mostly empty table.
"Ponies say I'm really honest! I just say what I think of!"

497829

>>497828
Sit across from her.
"That's the impression I got as well. It's not easy to find somepony as open as you are these days, you know."

497830

>>497829
"Oh, but I'm here everyday! I work at the reception!"

497831

>>497830
"I meant in the world as a whole. But yes, I guess that's a nice sentiment. I think we'll get along just fine."

497832

>>497831
"Will you visit every day?"

497833

>>497832
"I'll try to, if you enjoy my company as much as I enjoy yours."

497834

>>497833
"I enjoy the company of everypony!"

It seems that not many ponies sit down around you two.

497835

>>497834
I'm not too worried. Yet.
"I hear you've been working here for a while, you must know quite a few ponies around here, no?"

497836

>>497835
"Oh I know almost everypony!"

497837

>>497836
"On a friendly level?"

497838

>>497837
"I guess… I always wave to and greet everypony!"

497839

>>497838
"And they greet you right back?"

497840

>>497839
"Sometimes!"

497841

>>497840
"That's good, at least. Ponies these days should be more friendly towards one another."

497842

>>497841
"You're very friendly!"

497843

>>497842
"I try my best to be, at least."

497844

>>497843
She says something, but you can't really make it out since her mouth is full of food.
There are still not very many ponies sitting around you.

497845

>>497844
Poor mare.
"What's that?"

497846

>>497845
Gulp - "and we've been best friends ever since!"

497847

>>497846
I blink at her.
"I completely missed the entire first part of the story, sorry."

497848

>>497847
"Oh, I can tell you again! It all started when-"
And at that point she starts eating and chewing while speaking again.

497849

>>497848
I smile slightly and interrupt her.
"You know, it's much harder to understand you when your mouth is full of food. Slow down. Start from the beginning without eating the food."

497850

>>497849
She gulps again.
"But I don't have much time! Since ponies who have troubles deal with troubles in their break I have to eat fast so I can get back to my desk and help them!"

497851

>>497850
"Just give me the short version without the food then. Don't worry, you'll make it back in time."

497852

>>497851
"Oh, the short version is that we are best of friends with Storm Dancer! We even hang out sometimes after work!"

497853

>>497852
"Storm Dancer… not sure I've met her… or him?"

497854

>>497853
She giggles.
"She's a she! She works at the infirmary!"

497855

>>497854
"Ah, right. I met her yesterday. I already thought the name sounded familiar. She's quite nice."

497856

>>497855
"She really is!"
She quickly finishes up her food.
"It was nice to have dinner with somepony! Thanks!"
She hurries away… then comes back, sheepishly picks up her empty tray, and leaves again.

497857

>>497856
Wow. Okay. Finish up my own meal as well.

497858

>>497857
You eat the rest of your food and return your tray.
On your way out, you hear the voice of a mare.
"Excuse me?"

497859

>>497858
Look at the source of the voice?
"Mmmhm?"

497860

>>497859
It's a mare that looks surprisingly similar to Airheart, but her mane is done differently.
"Hey. You're new here, right?"

497861

>>497860
"… Yes, that's right. Do we know each other?"

497862

>>497861
She shakes her head with a gentle smile and offers a hoof.
"We don't. My name is Skyheart, weather factory. Air is my sister. I don't see many ponies talking to her since they think she is… different, so I just wanted to thank you."

497863

>>497862
Shake her hoof.
"She certainly is something else. Funny, she must have forgotten to mention her sister worked here too."

497864

>>497863
"She forgets to mention a lot of things."
She chuckles.

497865

>>497864
"I don't have much trouble believing that. Does she… normally sit all on her own during lunch?"

497866

>>497865
She frowns.
"She rarely has any company at the table, yes, and my shift doesn't always allow me to get here before she finishes. It's always nice to see her make friends."

497867

>>497866
"From what she's told me, she gets along with Storm Dancer already as well. A shame not more ponies are willing to get together with her. I think her quirkiness is endearing."

497868

>>497867
"Once you get past the minor annoyances, she will do everything to lift your spirits, and she can't stand seeing ponies frown. Too bad not many of the other workers care enough to realize that."

497869

>>497868
"She sounds like she likes working here at least. That's nice."

497870

>>497869
"Oh, she loves it, believe me. Finally something that she can put her mind to. She had troubles concentrating before, but I think you could have guessed that."

497871

>>497870
"Well, hopefully we can catch some lunch together as well. You said you work in the weather factory itself right?"

497872

>>497871
She nods and taps her vest.
"That's right, and I'd love to."

497873

>>497872
"See you around then, Skyheart."
Time for work again?

497874

>>497873
Time for work!
You should roll how your area looks now.

497875

>>497874
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

497876

>>497875
It looks like '1d6' clouds have floated over or formed from leftovers while you were at lunch. You need to remove each of them.

Roll #1 4 = 4

497877

>>497876
Let's get this party started!

Roll #1 6 = 6

497878

>>497877
Poof! You kick one of the fluffy bastards out of existence with ease.
Three more remain.

497879

>>497878
Next.

Roll #1 4 = 4

497880

>>497879
Mulligan!

Roll #1 5 = 5

497881

>>497879
>>497880
You try to kick it the next one apart, but it's so small that the flap of your wings floats it away right before you can land a solid hit.

497882

>>497881
Ugh. Chase after it and ice this fool.

Roll #1 10 = 10

497883

>>497882
You do a loop backwards and gain some velocity, then burst through the cloud on your way up, not stopping until you reach the next stray cloud and vaporizing it into thin air as well. Only one cloud remains.

You can see an excited filly clap her hooves in the part at your acrobatic show.

497884

>>497883
Aw yiss, let's do this with style then! Stylishly dispatch the last cloud!

Roll #1 8 + 1 = 9

497885

>>497884
You gain some altitude, then lock targets with the cloud, and turn into a dive, spinning around in the process with a drill-like motion just before you hit it.
Poof, there goes the last cloud, and the area is sunny shiny again.

The little filly is hollering in excitement, and even her parents are smiling.

497886

>>497885
Man, I should practice these slick moves more often.
Smile back at them, then move on and watch for anomalies.

497887

>>497886
You wave them goodbye, and start patrolling your area.
You find another cloud, but this one is alone and it is still grey.
You will have to get rid of the water in it before you can disband it.

497888

>>497887
That's easy. Jumping on it will fix that. Just make sure nopony is walking or flying under it and jump!

Roll #1 10 = 10

497890

>>497888
You push it over an empty alley, and start jumping up and down on it, quickly draining it of every bit of precipitation it contained, dispersing it with a kick at your last jump.

The rest of your area seems clear as well.

"This is guard booth, patrols do you copy? There's some guy standing around the back gates with a cart. Check it out, over."
"This is Eddy, I'm near there, will do, over."

497891

>>497890
Nice.
Hmmm… do I dare practice some flying tricks while I have nothing to do? Sure! Let's try some easy loops and twirls first.

Roll #1 1 + 1 = 2

497892

>>497891
You start practicing but can't pull up in time, and end up in a wet dumpster that was in the alley you just drenched.

497893

>>497892
Oh goddammit!
Get out and clean myself off!

497894

>>497893

Roll #1 6 = 6

497895

>>497893
>>497894
You fly out and shake it off, getting rid of most of the stench and waste you landed in. You'll need a long shower when you get home though…

497896

>>497895
Maybe they have showers at the station. We'll see.
Bah, no tricks then. Continue patrol.

Roll #1 6 = 6

497897

>>497896
The rest of the workday goes by without much happening. There is a piece of garbage here or there that you pick up, but not much else.
It's time to head back.

497898

>>497897
Let's do that then!

497899

>>497898
Your area was a bit further away than yesterday and you get back later than you expected. Seems like most ponies are already changed to their everyday gear and are leaving.

497900

>>497899
Are there showers here?

497901

>>497900
You get back to the changing rooms aaaand… Yup.
Seems like there are.

497902

>>497901
Get a nice shower then.

Roll #1 10 = 10

497903

>>497902
You throw your stuff down and head right in.
Aaah, warm water, and there's even free shower gel! In no time at all, you smell like the manly stallion you should smell like, fresh as ever.

You confidently stroll out when you are done and - Bump into someone else.

497904

>>497903
Oh.
"Sorry. Didn't see you there."

497905

>>497904
"No, no, it's my fault, uh, I thought I was the only one taking a shower here this late. Hey, I don't think I've seen you before."
He scratches the back of his neck.

497906

>>497905
"It was a surprise shower."
I chuckle.
"I'm new here, that's probably why."

497907

>>497906
"Oh, so that's why! I probably would have remembered you, hehe."
He chuckles as well, then extends a hoof.
"A weird place to meet ponies, but I'm Venturer."

497908

>>497907
Shake his hoof with a smirk.
"Cloud Skimmer, nice to meet you."

497909

>>497908
"So, I'm guessing you are weather factory? Haven't seen you today while moving the clouds."

497910

>>497909
"No, I'm part of the patrols actually!"

497911

>>497910
"Oh, hehe… starting at the bottom of the food chain?"

497912

>>497911
I shrug.
"Got to start somewhere, you know."

497913

>>497912
"Yeah… so, if you have a start you must have a goal too! Will I be seeing you on weather control in time?"

497914

>>497913
"I sure hope so. That's my first goal, at least."

497915

>>497914
He chuckles.
"What's the second? Don't tell me you want to take Lancer's place."

497916

>>497915
"Wouldn't want to disappoint the family."

497917

>>497916
He leans against the shower's wall.
"Yeah, I know what you mean. I got constant pressure from that back in Weather Academy."

497918

>>497917
"And when they've got their eyes set on a career for you, they expect you to follow."

497919

>>497918
"Yeah, they wanted me to become a policepony! Can you believe that!"

497920

>>497919
"Well, we're adults, that means we've got dreams of our own to achieve. Regardless of what they want or don't want."

497921

>>497920
"Exactly! That's the same what I was thinking!"

497922

>>497921
"That said, I'm sure we'll fly together some day."

497923

>>497922
"We should! Uh, I mean, we could!"

497924

>>497923
"Have a good one, Venturer."
Let's get clothed.

497925

>>497924
"Thanks! See you around!"
You get clothed and give in the items you recieved on your way out.
Go home?

497926

>>497925
Hmmm…
1 Go see qt nurse
2 Go home

Roll #1 1 = 1

497927

>>497926
You go back to the infirmary instead. Seems like the qt doctor is in casual clothes, packing up for the day.

497928

>>497927
Oh. Well excuse me.
"A doctor not wearing her clinical outfit. How surgical."

497929

>>497928
She perks up and turns to you with a smile.
"A street patrol not wearing his vest. How embarassing."

497930

>>497929
"As long as my wings are still attached to my body, I'll be fine."

497931

>>497930
She glances behind you.
"Hmm… so where are your wings? Not seeing them."

497932

>>497931
"It's past six PM, they're gone for the night."

497933

>>497932
She pouts.
"Such a shame. That chronic illness has no known cure."

497934

>>497933
"Can you blame them? They need some R&R too every so often."

497935

>>497934
"Not one for stamina then?"
There's definitely something cheeky in her tone.

497936

>>497935
"Doctor, your assumptions wound me. I realize you may be a bit short on work, but that doesn't mean you are free to hurt hard working ponies like myself in such a way."

497937

>>497936
"I say, that was a purely professional diagnosis. What is there to get upset about because of that?"

497938

>>497937
"As a professional, you should know that all muscles need rest. Especially wing muscles. If you are so concerned, I welcome you to massage them for me to help me out."

497939

>>497938
"Sorry, my work hours are over, but I could give you the adress of somepony who would massage you beyond your every expectation."

497940

>>497939
"I'll have to pass. I should also let you get home. Would it be too abrasive of me to offer to escort you there?"

497941

>>497940
'1d4'

Roll #1 2 = 2

497942

>>497940
"I guess you can protect me against all the mean dragons and viscious gangs flying around."
She turns back to finish up packing.

497943

>>497942
"All joking aside, I hear you and Airheart happen to friends?"

497944

>>497943
She nods, then puts on a light coat.
"Sure we are. She is a really sweet mare, you know. She doesn't deserve some of the rumors she gets."

497945

>>497944
"I sat down and had lunch with her today, yeah. Not sure what the rumors around her are though. Maybe better I stay ignorant for now."

497946

>>497945
She seems serious about it.
"Yeah, you don't want to hear."
Then she gives you a look.
"Mind stepping out of the office?"

497947

>>497946
"Of course."
Do so.

497948

>>497947
She follows you and closes the door behind her.
"Somepony once broke in here, and you know what was the only thing that went missing? The tongue depressors. Nothing else. Weird, isn't it?"

497949

>>497948
"The what?"

497950

>>497949
She starts walking out.
"You know, the little wooden sticks?"

497951

>>497950
"Oh right. Hah, that's weird. Maybe an enthusiast of sorts?"

497953

>>497951
"An enthusiast of homemade ice-cream I bet."

497954

>>497953
"Not a bad thought. Ever considered joining the crime squad?"

497958

>>497954
"Who says I'm not undercover?"

497959

>>497958
"Hm, clever."

498526

>>497959
She chuckles.
"We are monitoring your activities, Mr. Cloud Skimmer."

498527

>>498526
"Well drat, now I'll have to assume a new identity and get facial reconstruction again. That's the third time this month."

498528

>>498527
"I can give an adress for you for that too."
The two of you leave the factory grounds and she opens her wings.

498529

>>498528
Follow suit.
"Are you a regular customer then?"

498530

>>498529
She starts flying at a relaxed, walking-speed pace.
"Why, you think I looked like this on default?"

498531

>>498530
"I figured you were too pretty to be true."

498532

>>498531
She chuckles.
Perception roll.

498533

>>498532
Be aware!

Roll #1 1 = 1

498534

>>498533
"That's how I get the trust of my victims."
As you look at her pretty face you fly into a cloud pillar.
Again.
Good thing you two went slow, but your head still hurts.
She lets out a refined laugh at you.

498535

>>498534
Rub my head a little and straighten myself.
"Those things are a true menace."

498536

>>498535
"I know, they are! Holding up buildings and whatnot! I don't even know how they got past city planning."

498537

>>498536
"Still, they prey on poor, innocent ponies like myself when you least expect it! Good thing you're around or I might have died right there and then."

498538

>>498537
"Do you require medical assistance? A quick CPR maybe?"

498539

>>498538
"I just might."

498540

>>498539
She floats over and ruffles your mane.
"Ohh, poor little thing, making a boo-boo like that. Visit the office tomorrow for proper treatment."

498541

>>498540
I pout at her.
"Yes, miss nurse."

498542

>>498541
She starts flying again.
"Doctor!"

498543

>>498542
Go after her.
"Really, isn't that just the same thing?"

498544

>>498543
"The same as weather control and weather patrol is the same."
She gives you a smug look.

498545

>>498544
"I wouldn't mind being weather control rather than patrol. Maybe you're just nitpicky?"

498546

>>498545
"Would you mind being a nurse? You would look cute in the outfit I bet."

498547

>>498546
"You really think so? White isn't really my color."

498548

>>498547
She fakes a pout.
"Sometimes we must make sacrifices."

498549

>>498548
"Alas, I have no medical training. Your wild nurse fantasies will remain unsated."

498550

>>498549
"Oh well, so much for that then. I'm afraid we can no longer be friends this way."

498551

>>498550
"And here I was planning our life together already."

498552

>>498551
"And have children with your low stamina genes? Tsk, please!"

There's that cheeky tone again.

498553

>>498552
"You really are relentless…"

498554

>>498553
"Can't finish med school otherwise!"

498555

>>498554
"I thought medical ponies were supposed to be gentle and caring?"

498556

>>498555
"Who says I am not just that?"

498557

>>498556
"But you hurt my feelings…"

498558

>>498557
"Only so I can mend them tomorrow, strictly in work hours. They'll fire me if I have nothing to do all day."

498559

>>498558
"If you wanted to see me more often, you could just ask me, you know."

498560

>>498559
"You came today without any encouragement, didn't you?"

498561

>>498560
"Yes I did. If only I had known what horrors awaited me…"

498562

>>498561
You two are nearing a tidy little house.
"That bad?"

498563

>>498562
"Unspeakable."

498564

>>498563
She touches down.
"Lucky for you, you don't have to tolerate me much longer then."

498565

>>498564
Land as well.
"And without any dragon attacks too. What luck."

498566

>>498565
"I think I saw the shadow of one. If you weren't here, it would have kidnapped me for sure."

498567

>>498566
Make a little bow.
"My pleasure."

498568

>>498567
"Didn't you say it was unspeakable?"

498569

>>498568
"I'm a masochist."

498570

>>498569
"Then you should definitely stop by my office sometime tomorrow."

498571

>>498570
I chuckle.
"Very well, doctor."

498572

>>498571
She smiles.
"See? I knew you could learn.
See you tomorrow!"
She turns to enter her home.

498573

>>498572
Nice mare.
Now, let's get to home ourselves.

498574

>>498573
You find a note on your door.

498575

>>498574
Uh? Read it!

498576

>>498575
Hey, Skimmer!

Dropped by at your place earlier today, but you weren't home. Just wanted to remind you that we'll have the race tomorrow instead of two days from now, at the usual place.
We'll expect you there!
Milky Way


Looks like it's a friendly reminder from your pal about the flight practices you do with some friends you've known for a while.

498577

>>498576
Oh goody. Doesn't that impede on my work time though?

498578

>>498577
Nope, but you'll only have an hour after it to get home and get ready, then go to the usual place - the outskirts of the city.

498579

>>498578
That's fine by me!
Go inside and make some quick dinner.

498580

>>498579
You make some easily prepareable food out of the things you have in your fridge.

498581

>>498580
Eat up.
Take some time to do some work-outs as well before bed.

Roll #1 3 = 3

498582

>>498581
You are pretty tired…

498583

>>498582
Fine, I'll just do that in the morning then! Time for bed.

Roll #1 6 = 6

498584

>>498583
You have a good night's sleep, and dream of butts.

A short pause now

498585

>>498584
Mmmmm~

499120

Cloud Skimmer

BEEP BEEP BEEP
"Gooooooooood morning Cloudsdale! You are listening to the host of the Morning Feather Rustler, Cloudy Curls!"
"Co-commentated by none other than Sweet Keys!"
"You better go out today and play because it will be bright and shiny today before two days of scheduled rain!"
"And you don't want to get fined by kicking apart the rainclouds like how Curls did when he was a teen, do you?"
"Excuuuuse me, I made sunshine for you and you only, Keys!"
"You heard it here first! Messing with the scheduled weather is okay if you do it for mares! Hahah!"
"Seriously though, kids, don't do it. I got my rear handed to me by my parents after they saw how much they had to pay."
"Instead of weather vandalism, you can listen to our music here!"



Curry and Felfire
The two of you just returned to the Lighthouse after your earlier little victory in the jungle.
Scurvy is cleaning her weapon, while the others are packing up.
"We are leaving to the docks now. Get everything you had and get a move on."

499121

>>499120
Look around.
So they are really… I'm leaving? Buck is nowhere in sight, right?

Roll #1 3 = 3

499122

>>499121
You can't see him… which doesn't mean he is not around…

You know that with that dagger, he can even leave his body and be at two different places at once!

499123

>>499120
Well, I don't have much. I'll grab that spear, and Felfire's blankets.
>>499121
"Here you are, little one. A blanket to keep you company while we move."

499124

>>499120
Lucky for me I'm a licensed vandal.
Get up, morning routine time. You know the drill.

Roll #1 4 = 4

499126

>>499122
Uh… Do I remember what the dagger looks like?
>>499123
Widen my eyes and grasp it!

Roll #1 2 = 2

499128

>>499123
Angler brings you two bowls.
"It's not much, but you better eat before we move on. You seem roughed up, but the doc can only take care of that once we arrived."

>>499124
Your morning routine goes well until you spill the milk and even drop one of the toasts.

>>499126
SCARY!

499129

>>499128
"I'll be fine for the trip, at least."
>>499126
"And here's breakfast as well. Be careful not to spill it, since you'll need your energy for the journey."

499130

>>499128
Good thing it's just cloud!
Time for some working out before work?

Roll #1 7 = 7

499132

>>499129
>>499128
Look shily at the pony bringing the bowls and wait for the unicorn to set it down, before digging in furiously.

Roll #1 2 = 2

499134

>>499130
You revitalize yourself with some wing-pushups and stretching.

"-ure not to miss our interview with the CEO of the Los Pegasus Airport and Trading Company at 10! We have some interesting questions towards them, about their new business, the Pony Express, as well as some worried rumors about possible military use of the two flying cities! Stay tuned!"

>>499129
"I must say, you are pretty tough for a unicorn."

>>499132
You fucking spilled!

499135

>>499134
AAAAAH! He's gonna kill me!
Stare at it in the greatest of horrors!

Roll #1 5 = 5

499136

>>499134
Buff as fuck.
Alright, time for work.

499137

>>499134
"It's a necessity, really."
>>499135
"Ah, isn't that a shame. Here, I'll share mine with you."
Levitate Felfire's spoon, and, after setting the bowl down between us, I'll float a spoonful above the bowl.
"Careful, it might still be hot."

499138

>>499135
You can't help but stare.
If you'd know what a towel is, you'd want one.

>>499137
He nods and murmurs something, then leaves to pack up his own supplies.

>>499136
Once again you make good time. You have a few minutes to chat it up with whoever you want, provided you can find them.

499139

>>499137
But…
I spilled!
I can't stare away!
Start to shake! He's gonna come and beat me up!

Roll #1 7 = 7

499140

>>499138
How about dad?

499142

>>499139
"It's alright, Little one. Here, eat."

499143

>>499139
…it's just a bowl of spinach.
You are probably safe… for now.

>>499140
He must be in his office already. Knock Knock and enter?

499144

>>499143
Knock knock.

499145

>>499142
>>499143
Sit down and whimper slightly.
Shake my head.
"Y-yours…"

499146

>>499144
You hear the stern voice from the other side.
"The door is open. Come in."

499147

>>499146
Enter then.
"Hello dad."

499148

>>499145
"It's alright, little one. There's too much for me alone, so I'm sharing. It's alright."

499149

>>499147
He looks up at you, then back to his paperwork as he talks.
"Good morning son. Take a seat."
He scribbles something on a document then seals it before moving on to the next.

499150

>>499149
Sit down then.
"Everything alright?"

499151

>>499148
Shake my head even more and run to hide under the blanket.

499152

>>499150
He puts down the quill, made from one of his own feathers, as is tradition to write with for high ranking pegasi.
"Of course."
He takes a deep breath, and pauses before speaking again.
"I've been hearing a lot of good about you, son."

499153

>>499151
I'll sigh a little, and let the spoon down into the bowl of soup.
"Alright, then, but if there's any leftover then you have to promise me you'll try and eat, alright?"

499154

>>499152
"Really? That so huh?"

499155

>>499154
"You've done well on your patrols, help out on your first day when it wasn't even your job, and your co-workers say nothing but positive things about if. If you weren't my son I would think that you are fishing for a promotion."

499156

>>499153
Nooooope. Pull the blanket over my head.
Start to tell myself it's gonna be fine.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

499157

>>499155
I chuckle.
"Well I didn't come here to the lion's den to slack off, did I?"

499159

>>499156
It will be fine, you are under the blanket!

…but your stomach is starting to hurt a bit…

>>499157
"True enough. And you are well on your way to step up in ranks."

499160

>>499159
"Well, I'm glad to hear that. There's another reason why I wanted to talk to you though… about some of my coworkers."

499161

>>499156
Going to have to find her something to eat along the way… Hmm.
Idly eat a few spoonfuls of soup. It won't do much good on the trip there, but if those fruits are still near the cave, I might be able to coax some of the seeds to grow into a tree that's fully grown, fruit and all…
Leaving about a third of the soup in the bowl, I'll pick up Felfire's spilled bowl, and pour what's left of my soup into it.
Setting it down near Felfire, I'll speak.
"It seems Angler managed to make a little more, little one. Here, eat up."

499162

>>499160
He puts his hooves together and leans forward.
"Yes? Is there a problem?"

499163

>>499162
"Not at all, actually. I'm just curious what your views are on them. That mare sitting at the reception, for example. Airheart."

499164

>>499163
"Airheart is a very valuable asset to the factory and I wouldn't trade her for any number of employees even if Princess Celestia offered them."

499165

>>499164
"I'm asking dad, not the director."

499167

>>499159
>>499161
Poke my head out and look up at him. For just a second.
Then back at the bowl and try not to drool.

Roll #1 5 = 5

499168

>>499165
He stands up without a word, and walks over one of the filing cabinets, pulls out a sheet of paper then walks back to his desk, placing it down in front of you.
"What do you see on this piece of paper?"

499169

>>499167
You make a slurping sound, but some of it drips out at the corner of your mouth.

499170

>>499168
"Nothing?"

499172

>>499169
Oh shit no. Pls.
Shut my eyes and flatten to the ground, trembling in fear.

499173

>>499167
>>499172
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. I need to go check on a few things before we leave, so don't wander off, okay?"

499174

>>499170
It's not empty.
It has Balance sheet written at the top, with lots and lots of numbers you can't really wrap your head around.

>>499172
You tremble in fear before the mighty bowl of spinach.

499175

>>499170
Alright then, what do I see on the piece of paper presented to me?

>>499174
"A lot of numbers and administration."

499176

>>499173
Wait, he's not…
Tenptatively open one eye and look up at him.
Not moving any closer? No dirty joke?

499178

>>499176
I'll just look back at you.

499179

>>499175
"How much time do you think one of our accountant takes to fill out a sheet like this? I'll help, about an hour. Airheart? It takes her ten minutes, and during all her years here she never made a single mistake in them."

499181

>>499178
O…kay…
>>499174
Tap the bowl.
Then suddenly grab it and dig in!
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499182

>>499181
Guess what…
You spilt again.

499183

>>499182
Fuck that.
Eat from the ground. It's not the first time I do it!
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

499185

>>499179
"But why hire her as a receptionist and not an accountant then? I had lunch with her yesterday and she seems like a genuinely nice pony but… she's also a bit scatterbrained."

499187

>>499182
>>499183
Well, good to know she's… enthusiastic.
"Alright, I'll be back in a moment. I just need to see if they need my help carrying anything."

499188

>>499183
It seems like a good decision, because by heavens is it tasty!

>>499185
"Here is the hard truth… she can be like that, yes. And she is unique. She can only work her magic with paperwork if she is happy, and she is only happy if she is, I think you guessed it by now, working at the reception. We don't even give her it as tasks anymore, we tell her it's somewhat of a crossword for her to pass the time during slow hours."
He lets out a small laugh.
"The strangest pony I ever employed, for sure."

499189

>>499188
Fnish it up and clean my face and mouth…
Start breathing again.
Look around in what could only be called bliss.

499190

>>499188
"Mmm… yep. I guessed as much. What about the doctor? I had a chat with her yesterday as well. She seems competent."

499193

>>499187
Netsy waves at you.

>>499189
Your tummy is officially full, the spinach leaving a salty aftertaste in your mouth.

>>499190
"First of her class, could have went to anywhere in Equestria, but chose to stay in Cloudsdale to help pegasi and she is specialized in wing related injuries. I admire her for staying here even though she knows she would be better paid in Manehatten or Canterlot."

499194

>>499193
I'll head over to her.
"What's up?"

499195

>>499194
She points at her stuff, which is not much really.
"Could you carry those for me? I want to be airborne when we move, and don't want it to slow me down."

499196

>>499193
I nod.
"She's certainly modest about it. What of Lancer?"

499197

>>499193
Giggle to myself and turn upside down, looking at the ceiling.
Now I need some water…
I wonder if the sea is good to drink…
Slowly, pull myself up and crawl outside.
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

499198

>>499195
I'll nod.
"Should be easy enough."
I'll float it over and across my back.
"Thanks for showing up when you did, by the way."

499199

>>499197
You crawl out in the cover of your blanket to the nearby sea, and gulp a big mouthful of refreshing wa- YUCK! It's even saltier! You spit it out and turn around, where you see a rusty old bucket that has collected some rainwater, and instinctively put your head inside to start lapping at the water. Now THAT is tasty water!
Seawater - Bad
Other water - Good
You learned that now!

>>499198
She frowns.
"I still left you to fend them off alone. I should have helped."

499200

>>499199
I just thought water was water…
Pull my head out of the bucket and let the water wash over me.
Look at my reflection into it.

499201

>>499196
"Oh, he is something, isn't he? I can't exactly say I like his attitude with his coworkers, but since he has been the weather captain the schedule has been kept twenty percent better than previously."

499202

>>499199
"And you did help. You got to the others fast enough to get back to me. I was lucky they were less interested in killing me immediately, I'll admit."
I'll chuckle.
"And I'll heal up fine. I doubt I'll even scar."

499204

>>499200
You see the face of a curious light opal filly looking back.

>>499202
She winces.
"They tortured you?"

499205

>>499201
"He seemed like a very driven pony to me alright. I'm guessing I'll be flying alongside him some day."

499207

>>499204
Whoa. Touch it with a hoof….
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

499208

>>499204
"Nah. They didn't have the time for that. The mare just liked to play with her victims a bit before killing them. So instead of killing me when she should have, she instead just kept me from standing up."
I'll shrug.
"Her mistake, since the captain cut her open from ear to ear."

499209

>>499205
He raises an eyebrow.
"You do know you must go through weather factory duty before you can become weather control, right?"

>>499207
You can't see it clearly now, it got all circly-wavy!

>>499208
She glances at Splinterproof, then at Scurvy.
"I thought Scurvy did that."

499210

>>499209
Wait for the circles to go away.
Is she still there?

499211

>>499210
She is, and she is looking even more curious now!

499213

>>499209
I'll shake my head.
"The captain didn't take the threats to her crew very lightly. Can't say I disagree with her methods, but we should try to avoid much more combat, since they might start coming in groups bigger than just two.

499214

>>499211
Widen my eyes and move closer.
"You should run!"

499215

>>499209
"Are you implying I'll be spending the rest of my life in the factory?"

499217

>>499213
Splinterproof taps her hoof on the ground. Looks like she overheard.
"If they do, we are sitting ducks here. We should get a move on."

>>499214
She widens her eyes, leans closer and mouths some words without any sound!

>>499215
His tone becomes stern again.
"Are you implying you are above factory work and should be weather control right away? Why don't I hoof you the keys to the company right now too?"

499218

>>499217
Ah!
But this makes no sense!
"P-please! Do it, run!"
Try not to cry.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

499219

>>499217
I'll nod.
"Alright, I'll gather up the little one."
>>499218
I'll head back over to your position.
"What's the matter, little one?"

499220

>>499218
You don't cry, per say, but your eyes don't stay dry either.
The filly in the water looks worried and tears up.

>>499219
She nods.

499222

>>499217
"You are making no sense now, dad. You know all too well that's not what I'm about."

499223

>>499219
>>499220
NO!
They don't have to find her!
Cover the bucket with my blanket!
Pretend nothing has happened!
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

499224

>>499223
I'll look at her curiously.
"What's the matter, little one? Is there something wrong with the water bucket?"

499225

>>499224
Shake my head.

499227

>>499222
"Everypony who is on weather control climbed the same ladder, and you will too."

>>499223
The water inside the bucket is now covered and well hidden.

499228

>>499225
"We're getting ready to leave. Do you have everything? Your blanket? Anything else you want to bring with you?"

499229

>>499228
Pirouette around trying to get my bearings, then take the bucket's handle into my teeth and look back at the unicorn.

499230

>>499229
I'll chuckle a little.
"So you want to help and carry the water? Alright, but don't spill it, and if it gets too heavy then you can tell me, okay?"

499231

>>499227
"Yes, which is exactly what my earlier point before was about. A ladder is meant to be climbed. The weather factory is a single step of the ladder. do you understand this?"

499232

>>499230
Nod.

Strenght check?
'1d10-2'

Roll #1 9 - 2 = 7

499234

>>499231
"Yes, and I hope you understand your responsibilites to this family."

>>499232
It's light enough for you to carry.

499236

>>499234
Then, I'm ready! We leave! I'm leaving, for real!

499237

>>499234
"I understand what you expect of me, at least."

499238

>>499236
We sure are.
Rejoin the others.

499239

>>499238
>>499236
Netsy flies up to scan from above, Splinterproof takes lead while Scurvy falls to the rear.
The captain speaks.
"Stay together, don't slow down, and don't go running away if something happens. We stay together, no matter what, understood?"
She starts walking north.

499240

>>499237
"You do?

Then you visited your grandmother recently, correct?"

499241

>>499239
North we go. I'll take up the rear, with Scurvy and Felfire.

499242

>>499239
>>499241
Stay very close to the unicorn.

499244

>>499241
>>499242
Scurvy looks nervous.
"I hate this. I hate this!"

499245

>>499240
"Not since I started working here."

499246

>>499245
"You know she is getting lonely since father died, and my obligations don't allow me to visit her often. Drop by her place during the next few days if your time allows it."

499247

>>499244
Look down on the ground and ignore it. Please let it not be me…

499248

>>499246
"I will. No worries."

499250

>>499244
"I'm not exactly fond of the constant danger either. But until it gets cleared up, we don't really have much choice other than to deal with it."

499255

>>499248
He glances at the clock.
"You better hurry if you don't want to start late."

>>499247
She didn't pull you closer yet…

>>499250
"Yes but… My nerves are on fire or something! I can't take this!"

499257

>>499255
"It's the island, I think. One of the natives said that the raiders did… something to the temple in the middle of their camp. It affects the whole island, and I was the first one who'd gone to the raider camp and didn't die or join them."
I'll shrug.
"Were I a bit more superstitious, I'd say that's what might be bothering your nerves."

499259

>>499255
"Looks like. See you, dad."
Go get dressed. Ready myself fo work and get my schedule and all that other bullshit.

499260

>>499257
Felfire, roll for flashback suppression.

>>499257
"That's not much of a help! I mean… I can fight and all, but this is insane! These are not ponies getting into a barfight or a petty thief who needs a beating!"

>>499259
You get another brand new area to patrol today.
Looks like it's sunny again all day, with a disperse-on-sight policy on clouds.

499261

>>499260
'1d10'
Pls. I don't want my new friend to die!

Roll #1 4 = 4

499262

>>499260
"No, it certainly isn't. But, tell me this, Scurvy. How would you deal with pirates who attack your ship at sea?"

499263

>>499260
Alright alright, let's get this one over with quickly.

Roll #1 3 = 3

499264

>>499262
"Injure them, throw them overboard and let the sea and their mates sort them out! I'm… I'm not a killer!"
That's tall coming from her, since she has the most pirate-y look out of the crew.

>>499261
It's about what you overheard from Curry.
You get flashbacks of a different place, not the main pyramid, but a smaller set of ruins… even some of the raiders who went there were terrified of it, since that's where they stacked the corpses they didn't use for decorations, that is where those who devour meat stay and there is where that pony who makes the dread on the island even more terribl- Oh god you are shaking again.

>>499263
This area seems more nasty.
You can see some litter on the streets, but more importantly, there are '1d7+2' stray clouds floating about.

Roll #1 4 + 2 = 6

499265

>>499264
Deal with the fuckers with STYLE.

Roll #1 5 + 1 = 6

499266

>>499264
I- I c-can walk!
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499267

>>499264
"Tossing them overboard doesn't leave much room for survival if they're already injured. Sharks and such tend to be drawn to that."
>>499266
I'll stop.
"Little one? What's the matter?"

499269

>>499267
"Then that's the sharks killing them, not me!"

>>499266
You really can't. You have to stop.

>>499265
You kick them apart like… well, a totally boring weather pony.
That's one less though.

499270

>>499269
Keep at it!

Roll #1 9 + 1 = 10

499271

>>499269
"And it was the captain killing them this time, not you. So relax."

499272

>>499267
Start rattling even harder and talk to myself, dropping the bucket.
"T-t-t-the others b-b-b-by the ruin-n-n-n-s…
D-d-d-don't c-come b-ba-ba-back…
N-n-n-ormal.
S-s-sca-a-ared of it… He is s-s-scared. T-t-tells me-
He is scared…"
Fall to my knees and cover my head with my hooves.

499273

>>499270
Now you're cooking with peanut butter!
You take two clouds out at the same time without even touching them!
You flap to make a mini-gust tornado that tears them both apart!

>>499271
>>499272
Scurvy looks concerned, and Netsy whistles, making the whole group come to a halt.
"What's the holdup?"

499274

>>499273
Continue the combo!

Roll #1 6 + 1 = 7

499275

>>499272
I'll sit next to her.
"It's alright, little one. He can't get you here. Not while you're with us."
>>499273
"She remembered something. Apparently there's something in that camp worse than the rest of the raiders."
I'll look a little concerned at Felfire.
"Little one, can you walk? Do you want me to carry you?"

499276

>>499275
I want to…
Get up. Please.
Stop the shaking. It's over! Stop the shaking!
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

499277

>>499274
You do a fancy double loop and burst through another one!
Only two remains!

>>499275
"W-Worse tha-"
"Shut it, Scurvy."
"…aye Captain."

>>499276
You manage to get to your hooves and stop shaking. You bet you could form a single, uninterrupted sentence too now before you bite back down on the handle of the bucket.

499278

>>499277
Easy peasy.

Roll #1 7 + 1 = 8

499279

>>499277
Look at the unicorn.
"The small ruins, they do things to ponies… Eat them… And there is where…"
Nope. Bite back on the handle, looking scared out of my wits.

499280

>>499277
"Looks like I have something to look into while the boat's getting fixed."
>>499279
I'll nod.
"I'll keep that in mind. Now, if you're good to walk, then we'll keep going. Once we're there, we can rest a little."

499282

>>499278
Poof!
There goes another one! This is fun to do, even!

>>499279
You bite back on the handle of the bucket to calm yourself.

>>499280
"Good, now can we-"
"Fuck!"
You hear Netsy yell before you see something burst out of the canopy of the jungle! It's a pegasus and she is fast! There's a glimmer of steel on her wings, and by the time Splinterproof raises her crossbow she is on your pegasus ally, locked in midair combat.
"I can't get a clear shot, damnit!"
In only a few short seconds the raider gains the upper hoof and wrestles Netsy upside down, and does a few fast motions with her wings that elicit a pained scream from her, and without wasting a second kicks her towards the ground, using it as a boost to disappear in the thich foliage before anyone could get their bearings.

She is plummeting towards the beach at an alarming rate.

499283

>>499282
Shit. Run towards Netsy, and try to catch her with TK. If that doesn't work, at least I'll be in a position to catch her normally. '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

499284

>>499282
Finish it for real.

Roll #1 9 + 1 = 10

499285

>>499283
AH!
Stay close to the unicorn!

Roll #1 7 = 7

499288

>>499284
You do the tiny-gust trick again, but this time you blow some trash into a bin with the same motion!

If anyone saw that they would be impressed now.

>>499285
You manage to gallop by his side.

>>499283
The Doc and you manage to slow her down just enough, but she seems to be bleeding from all over. The base of her wings have gaping wounds, and there is a thin piece of steel lodget in her right eye. She seems to be unconcious.
The doctor opens his bag immediately.
"Captain she's-"
"Move!"
"But-"
"MOVE, Damn you! Do you want that harpy to come back and injure more of us? Everypony run and don't stop until the docks, now move!"
Angler quickly take her on his back and starts to gallop alongside the Doc and Scurvy. The captain is looking at the jungle, weapon at the ready.

499289

>>499288
Don't fall behind!

Roll #1 6 = 6

499290

>>499288
Keep an eye out, and keep pace with Felfire.
"Stay alert, little one."
Ears open for the sound of pegasus wings. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

499291

>>499289
>>499290
You manage to keep up with the crew, and Splinterproof follows behind.
Almost there, and no sign of her return yet…

499292

>>499288
Damn straight.
Now, how about that trash?

Roll #1 1 = 1

499293

>>499291
Keep the filly in the bucket safe! Keep running! Don't turn around!

Roll #1 5 = 5

499294

>>499291
That doesn't mean she's gone. Keep an ear out while we move to the town.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

499295

>>499292
You sure take a closer look when you crash land in a dumpster.
Again.

>>499293
You trip and keep running, but a teeny tiny bit of the water spills, but you think she is still safe!

>>499294
You keep your pace and you are on the borders of the settlement, giving you a bit of cover, but you can't stop just yet, not before reaching the docks.

499297

>>499295
I'm… Getting really, really tired here…
F-follow!

Roll #1 9 - 2 = 7

499298

>>499295
Keep pace, and have an eye on the sky, since we're out of tree cover. '1d10'
>>499297
"Keep going, little one, you're almost there."

Roll #1 4 = 4

499300

>>499295
Fucking… just get this stuff done.

Roll #1 2 = 2

499301

>>499297
You actually cut in front of the unicorn!

>>499298
You fall behind, and for a startling second you feel somepony kick you in the ass real hard, but that's just the captain. It does urge you to catch up, and soon the whole crew is near a big warehouse next to the water, panting. The doc is working his literal and not-literal magic on Netsy already.

>>499300
You trip as you get out and half the trash from the container spills out when it tips with you.

499302

>>499301
C-catch my breath!
Settle down the little pony in the water and start panthing.

499303

>>499301
Ugh…
Clean this up already.

Roll #1 1 = 1

499304

>>499301
Right.
"So, looks like they were keeping an eye on us. Doc, what's up with those blades?"
>>499302
"Little one, are you alright?"

499305

>>499304
Just… Nod, while falling wordlessly on the ground.

499308

>>499303
You clean it up, but by the end of it you literally smell like shit. You are pretty sure you touched some too.

>>499302
The bucket is still safely covered.

>>499304
He is busy stiching up her wing wounds.
"They are sharper than that machete you had, for sure."
He nods beside him, where the thin blade covered in blood is lying now.
"I couldn't get a good look, but I think she has more of these feather shaped detachable ones."
He sighs.
"Poor Netsy, that eye is lost…"

499309

>>499308
Bah. Might as well pick up the rest of the trash too now.

Roll #1 7 = 7

499310

>>499308
"Probably."
I'll turn to the others.
"Any ideas on how to pin her down? Nets, traps, a large blanket?"

499311

>>499310
"Don't think tucking her in would help much…"
"Shut it, Scurvy."
"…aye, Cap'n."
"A bolt to the head, that's how."

>>499309
At least you can collect that without any troubles.
Now here you are, done with your area for the time being, smelling like crap.

499312

>>499311
"Going to have to slow her down enough to get the shot."
Think think think.
"We'll need somewhere defensible. This will do for now, but there are too many ways in."

499313

>>499311
Anything I gotta do now?

499314

>>499313
You could try not to cry now that you can think about the situation again.
I mean, the raiders did almost kill one of the ponies who didn't try to kill or rape you.

>>499312
"That's where the ship is. We're not leaving it alone."

499315

>>499311
Thankfully, I can just make sure to keep my distance from other pegasi by flying around. Let's wait till lunch to get rid of this crap.

499316

>>499314
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

Roll #1 7 = 7

499317

>>499315
Roll for that.

499318

>>499314
"I know that. But that doesn't mean we can't spruce the place up a bit. We'll need traps. Anything to keep everyone safe while work is being done, since Netsy's out of commission for the moment. If there were any nettles nearby I could coax them into growing a bit, and you'd have some natural defenses, but my options are a bit limited."

499319

>>499316
Breathe in, breathe out… the unicorn is here, he can protect you…

499320

>>499317

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

499321

>>499319
I don't want that to happen ever again…
M-maybe I could ask the raiders to leave them alone. They will answer, if I promise to go back…

499323

>>499318
Angler pipes in.
"If I sharpen some of the wood we have I can make a few booby traps, but it would be more simple with glass shards and metal scrap."
"And we need to save the wood for the ship too."

>>499321
Talk to who, though, about your deal?

>>499320
You keep your distance, but you do see a few stallions and mares flinching and giving you glances as they pass by.

499324

>>499323
I'll nod.
"Right."

499325

>>499323
Can we move on now?

499326

>>499323
To…
Her! That pony! The one with the razorwings…
Try to remember.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

499328

>>499325
You better take fifteen minutes off early if you want to lunch too aside from having a shower.

>>499324
They look together.
"I know it's much, but while start here, could you try that? Just look around in the nearby houses, that are nearby."

>>499326
Oh, of course you remember Skyscraper.
You get an especially vivid memory of her drawing a smiley face on your flanks for a 'cutie mark'. Thing is, she had to 'draw' with the blades.

499330

>>499328
Well, are the skies clear? No anomalies, right? In that case, I will.

499332

>>499328
"Sure."
I'll set Netsy's stuff next to a wall.
>>499326
"Little one, I need you to stay in here with the others while I gather a few things, alright? Maybe you can help the captain, or Scurvy?"

499333

>>499328
Curl up into a ball.
Maybe she won't do anything worse than that, this time…
>>499332
Raise my head to look at him.
>>499328
And then back towards the captain, with an expression of fear.

499335

>>499333
"The captain is a good mare. She'll help keep you safe. But you have to be brave, okay?"

499337

499338

>>499330
The skies are clear, but you sure aren't!
Head straight to the showers?

>>499332
"Thanks. Shout if there's trouble."

>>499333
Maybe… she is well known for her dislike for other pegasi though, she wants to rule the skies…

499339

>>499338
But I can't even fly…

499340

>>499337
I'll think a moment.
"Alright, how about this."
I'll take off my moon pendant, and hold it out to Felfire.
"While I'm out there, I want you to keep this safe. It is very important to me, and I'm trusting you with it. And I will always come back for it, no matter what. Can you do that for me?"
>>499338
I'll nod a little absently, keeping my attention on Felfire.

499341

499342

>>499340
Stare at the pendant.
Then, after gulping down once, nod.

499343

>>499339
Didn't stop her before.
She was probably the one who caught that mare you saw Buck kill just recently…

>>499341
You get a shower and get rid of the smell in good time, but then realize your vest smells too. If you wash it now it'll dry by the time lunch break ends, but you'll need some washing gel from somewhere.

499344

>>499343
Buck? I killed that mare…
Curl up and don't cry.

499345

>>499342
I'll smile.
"Then, here you are. I'll try to be fast."
Giving her the pendant, I'll take the nailbat and the feather blade. I might need that, and I'll be able to use it with my telekinesis.

499346

>>499344
Try rolling for that.

499347

>>499345
It's still a bit bloody.
Roll to check the nearby houses for the things you need.

499348

>>499346
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

499349

>>499347
'1d10'
Checking houses.

Roll #1 4 = 4

499350

>>499348
Like kiddie shampoo, you are tear free.
You wonder what shampoo is.

>>499349
The nearest one yields nothing usable.

499351

>>499350
Stay alert. Keep checking houses. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

499353

>>499343
I'll go ask my good friend Airheart.

499354

>>499350
Raise my head again and have a quick look around. Who is here?

499357

>>499351
The next house has a broken window that has big enough shards that might be usable for a single use-trap.

>>499353
She giggles when she sees you without your vest.
"Hello!"

>>499354
Netsy, passed out, bloody.
The Doc, working on Netsy, sort of bloody.
Angler, doing something with the wood they collected.
The captain, climbing a nearby fallen chimney to be on lookout.
Scurvy, looking nervous, playing with her tail.

499359

>>499357
"Airheart, I require your assistance in the most dire of matters. I need to wash my vest, but I don't have anything to clean it with aside from water."

499360

>>499357
Good, but we'll need more. Keep looking, though take that glass with me. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

499361

>>499357
But… How are we supposed to leave?
And where are we supposed to go? Under the sea?

499362

>>499359
"Oh, you need cleaning equipment then! There's a storage full of that stuff!"

>>499360
The rest of that house is empty, and the next one is collapsed completely.

>>499361
You recall that you had trouble breathing when your nose was in water.

499363

>>499362
Rig-
WAIT!
My friend!
Pull the cover off the bucket!

499364

>>499362
"Where is that storage?"

499365

>>499362
Hope the next couple of houses are more intact. Keep looking. '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

499367

>>499364
"I can show you!"
She gets out of her seat and starts walking down a corridor.

>>499363
There she is! She looks relieved once you lay your eyes on her.

>>499365
In the next one you find some metal scrap, which will be usable as nails and such at least.

499369

>>499367
Gather it up.
How many houses are left? And shoot a look up. That nutjob can't be too far away. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499370

>>499367
Follow her.
"I ran into your sister yesterday, by the way. Friendly mare."

499371

>>499367
"Ah!"
I'm so glad! She ran too!
Look back at her for a while.
Get lost into the water.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

499372

>>499369
None nearby. You had to get out of the sight of others if you wanted to search for more.
Sky is bright.

>>499370
"Oh, she really is! I like her a lot!"
She keeps walking.

>>499371
The filly stares back at you with a goofy expression.

499374

>>499372
…I might… Try to talk to her!
"How did you come here?"

499376

>>499372
Take what I have back to the others.

499377

>>499372
"You feeling like another shared lunch today?"

499378

>>499376
Angler looks up.
"Any luck?"

>>499374
She perks her ears and moves her mouth, but no word comes out of it.

499379

>>499377
"I would love to!"
You bump into her when she comes to a sudden stop.

499380

>>499379
"Sorry. Is this it?"

499381

>>499378
"Not a lot. Some scrap metal and a bit of glass. The other houses are a bit further away, if I want to check them."
Deposit the findings.

499382

>>499378
Droop my ears.
I know what's the problem. It's them. She can't talk because of them.
But it's alright.
Cuddle up with the bucket, hugging it tight.
She will feel this, right?

499383

>>499380
"… This isn't that corridor."
She turns around and starts walking back.

>>499381
Angler glances at Scurvy, and lowers his voice.
"Go, and take her with you. I don't think seeing her friend like that is much help in her state. Any whiff of danger, and you holler, okay?"

>>499382
She drops her ears too, but you can't see her expression when you hug the bucket.

499386

>>499383
It's okay. I'm okay like this…

499387

>>499383
"I'll send Scurvy running back."
"If that pegasus shows up, I will kill her, and Scurvy shouldn't have to see that."
>>499386
I'll look at her a moment, and then head over to Scurvy.
"Care to join me in looking for glass for traps and scrap for the boat?"

499389

>>499383
Oh dear…
Awkward.

499391

>>499386
"Just be safe."

She jumps a bit, unsheathes her cutlass, then puts it away again.
"Uh, yeah. Yeah. Let's go. Yeah."

>>499386
It's a bit rusty, but safe.

>>499389
She smiles again as you walk all the way back and take another corridor.
"You know what I've been doing?"

499392

>>499391
"Do tell."

499393

>>499392
"I was looking at pictures, pictures of cats!"
She giggles.
"Funny, just thinking about them."

499396

>>499393
"Oh. That's… very nice. Where did you find these pictures though?"

499397

>>499396
"I brought them! Did you know they have a whole magazine about cats? They do!"

499398

>>499391
What's the place here like, anyway?

499399

>>499397
I smile at her.
"I had no idea."

499400

>>499398
The warehouse is looking pretty bad for wear.
You haven't gone inside yet.
There are a few run down and collapsed houses nearby.

>>499399
"I always-"
She stops again, and you bump into her again, before she starts walking back.
"No, I think that was the right corridor."

499402

>>499400
Oh dear.
"Are you feeling okay, Airheart?"

499403

>>499400
Stand up and carry the bucket with me. Start strolling through the collapsed buildings, looking for…
A way out?
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

499405

>>499402
"Hmm? Yes, why?"

>>499403
You wander a bit, but the nearby buildings don't look very enticing… there's one that catches your eye a little further…

499407

>>499391
Right, and away we go.
"Keep your eyes and ears open."
Time to check houses. '1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

499408

>>499405
As long as it isn't nowhere close to the jungle…

499410

>>499405
"… No reason. Nevermind."

499411

>>499407
She chuckles nervously.
"That sure helped Netsy, right? Haha… yeah."

With a bit of digging, you find a small toolbox. It's not much, but it has some hammers and such.
Still no nails though.

>>499410
"…so as I was saying, I always wanted a cat but if I'd get one it would just fall straight through the clouds and die, and that's not a very good way of keeping animals."
You return to the corridor you were in earlier.

>>499408
It's closer to the sea than the jungle! Like the other houses, it's build from these strange red blocks.

499413

>>499411
Trot over there…

499415

>>499413
It's door is partially collapsed, so only you can fit through it! A big lumpy raider would get stuck!

499416

>>499411
Better than nothing.
"Netsy was unfortunately the most visible of us, being in the air. And they had the benefit of terrain. Here, at least, it's mostly clear so the pegasus won't have much to sneak behind."
Keep digging through houses. '1d10'
"You want to talk?"

Roll #1 7 = 7

499417

>>499411
"That's true, a real shame that. You'd have to live on the ground for a pet like that."

499418

>>499415
That is…
Incredibly convenient! Sneack in with my friend!

499419

>>499418
Unfortunately, you'll have to leave the bucket at the door too.
That is a bit inconvinient.

>>499417
She nods with a sad smile.
She points at a door.
"Here we are!"
You are exactly where she turned around the last time.

>>499416
"Talk about what?"

More glass shards for traps.

499420

>>499419
B-but!
Try to fit in, first my rear and then the head, carrying behind me the bucket!
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

499422

>>499419
Gather that up.
"You just look nervous. Scared, even. Thought it might help to talk."
Continue digging around. '1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499423

>>499419
Oh well.
"Thank you, Airheart. You're very sweet."
Let's see if I can find something I can use in here.

Roll #1 10 = 10

499425

>>499422
As you start walking, you realize she stopped.
"I'm not scared! I'm great! I'm having a freaking holiday here!"

>>499423
She looks glad.
"Anything for a friend!"

Indeed, it is a storage room with shelves full of all types of cleaning substances, but you quickly find a small packet of washing gel, probably for similar occasions.

>>499420
You do so, but as you drag the handle with you, the bucket tips too much and all the water spills out!

499426

>>499425
"Scurvy, calm down. This is not the time to freak out."

499427

>>499425
NO!
Quickly, try to scoop some water up!
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499428

>>499425
Take it.
"See you soon for lunch then."
Let's go wash this vest quickly, then return for lunch.

499429

>>499426
"If there ever was a time to freak out, this is it! We are stranded on an island with no way out, hunted by maniacs, and they will pick us out one by one! You saw what they did to her! That bitch could have killed her but she is toying with us! This is the right time to freak out!"
She is shaking.

>>499427
Hooves are not really good at scooping water, and it quickly seeps through the floor.

>>499428
By the time you finish washing it, she is not at the reception.
You do catch a glimpse of her at the cafeteria. She is waving at you from her table. Better get your food fast, which is '1d10' quality today.

Roll #1 2 = 2

499430

>>499429
Absolute rubbish, but hey, you got to eat.

499431

>>499429
>>499430
Trot over with a plate.

499432

>>499429
I…
Sit down inside the house and start sobbing.
I lost my first and only friend just like that. I killed her.

499433

>>499431
She taps the open seat beside her.
"Did you manage to do it?"

>>499432
…someone is there?

499434

>>499433
"AH!"
Nononono!
Scramble for the door!

499435

>>499433
"Oh yes, it worked out just fine."

499436

>>499429
"No, this is the time to focus on escaping and fixing the boat. Once we're at sea, you can freak out all you like, but until then you must keep your wits about you. If not for your own sake, then for the child's. We're likely the first ponies who have ever been kind to her, and if she sees us panicking, she'll start to panic."
I'll sigh, and pat Scurvy on the back.
"If nothing else, we have to pretend we're keeping it together. Every one is scared, but we have to put that aside until we can allow ourselves to deal with that fear."

499439

>>499434
You hit the wall with your back instead as you crawl backwards.
B-But you woke me up!

It sounds… strange. You can't see anyone, even though light seeps in through from various cracks in the wall and the gaps of the boarded up window, illuminating the dust flying around.

>>499435
"Any time you need help with anything, you know where I am! You see why I have to eat fast now?"

>>499436
She looks down at her hooves when you pat her, and keeps being silent, but then grimmaces.
"Screw that kid! Why did you have to kidnap her in the first place! It must be her fault! They are not after us, they want her back! We should just bring her back and leave!"

499440

>>499439
"Yes, I understand."

499441

>>499439
Keep looking around, scared, but try to calm down.
"P-please don't…"

499442

>>499440
She grins and digs in.
She doesn't seem to mind how bad the food is.

499443

>>499441
Don't what? Is it because I'm a colt and you are a filly?

499444

>>499439
I'll stop for a second, and then turn Scurvy's face so I can look her in the eyes.
"You look me in the eyes and say you want to leave a child whose wings are mangled with the monsters that did that to her, as well as the Moon knows what else, to die in pain and misery while we sail away."

499445

>>499442
I'll do the same then.

499446

>>499443
Slow down my breathing.
"I c-can't see you…"

499449

>>499446
I'm over here, in the corner!
If you squint your eyes real hard you might be able to make out what's there…

>>499445
It's pretty bad, but it's nutritioun.
Airheart mutters something through a mouthful of food and hurries to return her plate when you aren't even halfway through your own meal. After she leaves though, the pony you met yesterday, Venturer sits beside you.
"Hey. Mind if I sit here?"

>>499444
Her eyes seem to be a bit unfocused.
"Screw her! She is a wreck anyway! I don't want to die because of a wreck!"

499450

>>499449
Wait.
First move to the other corner.
Then squint my eyes.
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

499451

>>499449
Smile at him.
"Go ahead. Some 'food' they're serving us today, eh?"

499452

>>499449
"Scurvy, look at me. When's the last time you let the doc look you over?"

499454

>>499450
You move to the other corner safely.
Then you focus and see… a tiny, motionless pony skeleton.
Hello?

>>499451
"Oh, you don't even know half of it! Here we work to produce predictable weather and the food is terrible one day and great the next!"
He chuckles.

>>499452
"I'm all right! I'm allright I'm all right!"

499456

>>499454
"No, you aren't. We're going to bring what we've got back to the doc, and get you looked at. Now."

499457

>>499454
Gasp and stare at it wide eyed.
"Y-you are.."

499458

>>499454
"How's work been for you so far today?"

499460

>>499457
A colt, I know, but we can still talk! I don't bite!

>>499458
"Relaxed. Sunny days are the easiest, I'm telling you. Will have hell of a work in the next few days though."

>>499456
She takes a step back.
"What are you saying?!"

499462

>>499460
"Heard as much on the radio, yeah. That should be interesting."

499463

>>499460
Stay in my corner.
"Hi…"

499464

>>499460
"I'm saying your eyes don't look all that focused. I'm worried you might have caught something, and I don't want to wait until it's too late to do anything about it before I bring it up."

499466

>>499463
I haven't seen you here before! I'm Duck! Well, I'm not a duck, I'm a pony but they call me Duck!

>>499462
"Oh, you'll love it, for sure. Nothing better than getting drenched two days straight."

>>499464
"I haven't caught anything! I'm allright, okay?!"
She takes another step back, then bucks into a window, creating a lot of smaller shards.
"Pick those up if you want to!"
She walks out of the building with a huff.

499468

>>499466
I chuckle.
"I hear you."

499469

>>499466
"Scurvy, wait…"
I'll sigh, then pick up the largest of the shards. After that, I'll head out after her.

499470

>>499466
"I'm a pony, too. And I've never been here before!
I lived in the village all my life…"

499471

>>499468
"How about you? Not getting too bored I hope? I remember wanting to get out of weather patrol as fast as I could myself."

>>499469
She is going back to the others.
Doesn't even flick an ear towards you.

>>499470
You mean the fishing shacks? I didn't know anypony lived there!

499472

>>499471
"No, the one deep within the trees…"

499473

>>499471
"I keep myself busy. Lots of interesting ponies to meet around here."

499475

>>499471
Trot and catch up with her.
"Look, I know you're scared, but you can't just blame the little one. Trust me, the raiders would have attacked the lighthouse even if she and I had never showed up, because you all had the light on. And they would have either killed everyone, or enslaved everyone. Or both."
I'll shake my head.

499476

>>499472
My mum never let me play in the jungle. Said it was too dangerous.

>>499473
"That's for sure.
I saw you talking to Airheart earlier. She's a bit of a ditz, you know."

>>499475
She grits her teeth.
"That's really reassuring."

499477

>>499476
"It is. I'm trying to run…"

499478

>>499477
My uncle tried to run too, 'cause he was fat but he ran out of breath so easy!
The colt…
The skeleton…
The… whatever, makes a laughing sound.
You don't look fat though!

499479

>>499476
"Well, no, but… nevermind that. Sorry."
Shoot a look skyward, make sure we're not about to be divebombed. '1d10'
"Just… This place. It's not… right."

Roll #1 10 = 10

499481

>>499478
"You c-can see me?"

499482

>>499476
"True enough, but I can't blame her for that. Her scatterbrainedness is endearing to me."

499483

>>499481
Duh! Why couldn't I?

>>499479
No sign of any attack at all.
Scurvy takes a deep breath and starts sharpening her cutlass once she rejoined the others.

>>499482
"It can be cute, but not when it hinders the job we are doing. When it does, Lancer gets mad, and when he is mad, we have to suck it. Gusts blow downward, you know."

499484

>>499483
I'll wander over to the doc, see how Netsy's doing. Deposit the glass and toolbox with the other "supplies."

499485

>>499483
"You are…"
Nah, you know what?
I will hinge closer.
"Can you move?"

499486

>>499485
You scoot closer to his corner.
No… I think I fell asleep on my hooves.

>>499484
Angler takes them and starts to work right away.
She is covered in a blanket, still unconcious, but with a stable breathing at least.
The doc is rummaging through his bag.

499487

>>499486
"Doc, can I speak with you a moment?"

499488

>>499486
"Oh…"
Sit down in the middle of the room.
"I like Duck. It's a nice name."

499489

>>499487
He stops, and looks at you.
"Yes, I wanted to have a word with you too."

>>499488
………you do? All the fillies mocked me for it so far!

499490

>>499483
"Still, she's a good administrator. A shame Lancer doesn't see that. I'm sure I'll hear all about it from him one day though. For now, it's none of my concern, really."

499492

>>499489
"Well, let's get on with it, then. Here, or somewhere else in the three corners of this place?"

499493

>>499489
"No. It really is great…"
Look around the room, uncertain on what to say.
"I want to leave this place. But he's just gonna find me."

499495

>>499490
"He's a good worker but sort of an asshole…
Don't let him know I said that, okay?"

>>499492
He levitates a little vial to you.
"To be honest, out of all of us, you seem the most capable after the captain, but she won't leave the rest of us… so if you get in real big trouble, and I mean real big trouble and feel life ebbing away, drink this. It's the only one I have, so use it as a last resort only."

>>499493
Who is? Me uncle? Why would he?

499496

>>499495
I snicker.
"Silent as a grave."

499497

>>499495
"Is your uncle the biggest, strongest, meanest deer around?"

499500

>>499495
I'll nod.
"I'll keep that in mind."
I'll take the vial.
"Now, about what I need to speak with you about… when's the last time you looked over the others? Scurvy was acting a bit… odd while we were out there."
I'll glance towards where Scurvy's sharpening her cutlass.
"To be honest, I think the island's getting to her. The stress, fear… it's pushing her. Her eyes were very unfocused, and that worries me a little. Last thing we need is someone snapping."

499501

>>499497
He's not a deer, he is a pony!
You hear a gasp.
You're not being bullied, are you? I knew this bully who kept tripping me over my own hooves! It was really embarassing!

>>499496
He smiles at you.
"Thanks. That's a relief!"

499502

>>499501
Stay silent for a while.
"What is a bully?"

499503

>>499501
"So, what're your thoughts on the doc?"

499506

>>499500
He frowns and levitates off his glasses to rub his face with a hoof.
"I'm no therapist… and I'm not sure giving her any sedatives would be good either. I could try and give her company, I'm her oldest friend from this group, but with everything going on, I'm at a loss."
He puts his glasses back on.
"You still need your checkup too."

>>499502
Somepony who is beaing mean to you to feel better about himself!

>>499503
"Hm? Oh, you mean Storm?"
She shrugs.
"She's nice I guess. Can get nippy with her jokes, but I think she does care about everypony she treats."

499508

>>499506
"Might as well do it now, if you aren't too tired. I'm planning on heading back out shortly."

499509

>>499506
"…Even ponies that draw things where my cutiemark should be?
Or those that knock me down every time I try to get up?
Or those that take my food?"

499510

>>499506
"Hm… Yeah, I think I agree. The same impression I got from her, at least. Anyway, looks like lunch is nearly done. I'll need to go check if the scent of poo was removed from my vest yet. Don't ask."

499512

>>499508
"Never too tired to heal somepony."
He chuckles to himself and after a good ten minutes of his magic and tools, you feel healthy again.

>>499509
Those sound like bullies, yeah!

>>499510
He snickers.
"Wait, wait, I know, those big dumpsters, right?"
He looks around, then leans closer.
"Been there, done that when I was patrol."

499514

>>499512
Great. Just check in on Felfire before I go, and then I'll be off.

499515

>>499512
"They're a real menace tome so far."

499516

>>499512
"Then yes, they are big bullies…
What should I do if they take me again?"

499518

>>499515
"You ever need any wingpower fighting them, I'll be by your side."

>>499514
She is… where is she?

>>499516
They told me to call me mum if I got bullied.

499519

>>499518
Grow very quiet and stop answering.

499521

>>499518
…That's a damn good question.
"Angler, did you see where the little one went?"

499522

>>499518
"I'll keep that in mind."
Get up, put away my tray, collect my vest and put it on again, then head outside for the rest of my daily patrol.

499523

>>499519
He stays silent for a bit too.
Sorry… I lost me dad when I was still a little foal too.

>>499521
He looks up, hooves and mouth full of trap-making.
"Fhat?"

>>499522
You collect some more litter and kick apart a few clouds during the afternoon.

#Pause

499524

>>499523
"Shit."

499588

>>499523
"N-no I didn't lose them…
I wish I had though…"

499590

>>499588
You didn't?
…were your parents being mean to you?

499592

>>499524
He spits out the hammer he was holding.
"What?"

499594

499595

>>499594
…hrm… don't you have some nice lady or somepony to turn to? Your granny?

499598

>>499595
"There is… A unicorn I met… He's helping. He's different."

499599

>>499592
"I didn't expect the little one to wander off. I'm going to check the drydock, and then see if the captain's seen her anywhere."

499602

>>499598
I knew a stallion who was different too! It was weird though, I saw him kiss another stallion…

>>499599
"I was busy working, sorry, but you do that. I don't think it's safe even for us to wander about here."

499603

>>499602
I'll nod, and then head into the dry dock.

499604

>>499602
Shiver a bit.
"I-it's okay. As long as he doesn't come near me…"

499606

>>499523
Sweet. Go get changed then. No time to squander, I've got a race to attend!

499612

>>499604
Is he smelly?

>>499603
You head inside.
For the first time, you see the ship they've been talking about. It is indeed bigger than the ship you came here on, tilted to the right in the drydock. You can see that it is mostly intact, with the sails being in especially good condition, but the hull itself will need to get patched up, and some boards look like they will need to be replaced completely.

>>499606
There are other ponies changing as well, but you have no time for idle chit-chat.
Head home before the race?

499613

>>499612
If I have time? Sure. Grab a bottle of water at home for after the race.

499614

>>499613
If you hurry!
Roll if you want to.

499615

>>499612
Shrug.
"They all are…"

499616

>>499614
Ah… let's just go straight to the spot.

499618

>>499612
Well, that's reassuring.
Head up to where Splinterhoof put herself.
"Hey, have you seen the little one around? She's not with the others."

499620

>>499615
You hear a chuckle.
Yuck!

>>499618
She nods towards a house further down.
"She went over there with her bucket for some reason."

499621

>>499620
"She got oddly attached to it. I think she hid something in it. Thanks."
I'll head down, out, and towards the house Splinterhoof mentioned.

499622

>>499620
Start sobbing.
"I'm scared…"

499627

>>499616
You arrive at the designated place.
It's below the city, at the outskirts, so you and your friends can go nuts with it without endangering anypony.

You fly over to where the others are - Milky Way, a white stallion, Voltage, a yellow mare, Corvette, a crimson mare and Hot Pursuit, a yellow stallion.
They all greet you. There seems to be a table here with water, soft drinks and some snacks too!
"Just in time, Skimmer! Now we only need Orange Crush to get here and we can start!"
"I wish we had beer though. To ease the waiting."
"You know that's prohibited, Pursuit."

499629

>>499621
The doorway is collapsed. You can't fit here.
Roll for perception.

>>499622
It's okay to be scared, me mum says! I get scared sometimes too!

499631

>>499627
I grin.
"Yeah Pursuit. Besides, you're enough of a slowpoke already without alcohol slowing you down."

499632

>>499629
"I don't want to go back…
B-But he promised to…"
Sniff up.
"…h-h-hurt me even more if I don't…"

499633

>>499629
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

499635

>>499631
Corvette rolls her eyes and fakes annoyance.
"Who invited Skimmer again? I want the first place to be not taken by him at least once! Was it you, Milky?"
"Hey, I totally got close to beating him last time!"
"Yeah, sure you did."
They chuckle.
Voltage brings you a bottle of water with a smile.

>>499633
The wind picks up and blows a tile down the already ruined roof.
It breaks into two on your horn.
I guess I don't have to tell you how much that hurts.

>>499632
He can't hurt you if you're not there, can he! He is pretty silly!

499637

>>499635
Mutter slowly.
"But he can…"

499638

>>499635
Ow…
Rub my horn.
Is that bucket somewhere around? '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

499639

>>499637
No he can't! You are not even near!
Now you are being silly too!

499640

>>499638
It's not outside, that's for sure.

499641

>>499639
"…He can send ponies. Everywhere."

499642

>>499635
"Guys, guys, don't worry. I had a wing injury a few days ago, so maybe you'll actually come close to me this time."
Take the water with a grateful smile.

499643

>>499640
I'll just sit next to the house for the moment. Splinterhoof would have mentioned if Felfire had left…
That tile really hurt.

499645

>>499642
Hot Pursuit mocks your voice.
"Guys, I slept bad today, I think you'll have a chance now! Guys, my feathers are rustled and unaligned, you'll beat me this time for sure! We heard those before!"
The others start to laugh.

>>499643
It was the last tile too.
Some coincidence you were right there when it fell! Your ears are ringing too from the impact.

>>499641
…that does sound scary…

499646

>>499645
"Well if you don't want me to hold back…"

499647

>>499646
"By all means, please. Or fly backwards. Or upside down."
Orange Crush, an orange stallion arrives too.
"I'm not late for the party, am I?"

499649

>>499645
Shake my head.
I'll need my ears to hear the whistling death of a pegasus divebombing me.

499650

>>499645
"I… Just want to run!"
Curl up and cry, silently.

499651

>>499649
You try to fix your ears with your hooves, but it still sort of rings.
It's more quiet now.

>>499650
There is a brief silence.
I'd give you a hug because I always hug somepony when I'm feeling bad, but I can't stand up… but please don't cry or I'll cry too and that will be a mess!

499652

>>499651
Stand up and go over there to that pile of bones.
Hug it.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499653

>>499652
As you hug it you accidentally step on one of the leg bones and it snaps with a loud crack.
What was that?

499655

>>499647
"No, but you're being late doesn't bode well for you."

499656

>>499651
Rub my ears a bit.
Hitting my horn shouldn't deafen me. Try and listen. '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

499657

>>499653
Sigh.
"I broke something…"

499659

>>499657
What was it?

>>499656
Ah, there, all better!
You hear Felfire talking to… herself?

>>499655
"Winners are always fashionably late."
He grins and opens a drink.
Corvette claps her hooves together.
"Allright, everypony finish their drinkies and snackies so we can start already!"

499660

>>499659
"A piece of bone…"

499661

>>499659
Well, I'm not one to judge. I do so myself from time to time.

499662

>>499659
"I'm as ready as I'll ever be, my dearest Corvette.~"

499665

>>499660
..what was a piece of bone doing here?

>>499661
You can hear her loud and clear.

>>499662
Voltage nudges your shoulder.
"Don't get cocky, this time I can feel it, I'll get you!"

499666

>>499665
"There is a corpse here…"

499667

>>499665
"Maybe. Let's find out, shall we?"

499669

>>499666
You hear a gasp.
Oh no! A corpse! That's not good! Who is it? What is it? Is it a pony?

>>499667
She nods with determination, and alongside the others, she lines up at the start.
Corvette speaks again.
"You know the drill folks, ten laps, we start when the lighting goes off."
She sets up a small cloud charged with electicity -courtesy of Voltage - a few meters from the start.

499670

>>499669
Prepare for take-off.
"Let's do this."

Roll #1 7 + 1 = 8

499671

>>499666
>>499669
I'll keep listening in, and keeping an eye skyward.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499672

>>499669
Take a step back and bite my lower lip, tearing up.
"It's your body…"

499675

>>499671
You get some dust blown in your eyes by the wind.
You can still hear though.

>>499672
….that's silly. Are you saying I'm skinny?

>>499670
You are as ready as a pegasus can be.

RACE DIFFICULTY : Easy
Three…two…one… BANG!
Off you go! You can use 1d10+2 because of your talent.
Corvette '1d6+1'
Hot Pursuit '1d6'
Voltage '1d6'
Milky Way '1d5'
Orange Crush '1d5'

Roll #1 1 + 1 = 2 / Roll #2 1 = 1 / Roll #3 3 = 3 / Roll #4 4 = 4 / Roll #5 3 = 3

499677

>>499675
Ah, damn. Blink and clear my eyes.

499678

>>499675
"No… You are dead."
Start sobbing.
"I'm sorry…"

499679

>>499675
Hah! You know what, I'll hold back a little. Even if I lose, it's the fun that matters here. '1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

499680

>>499677
You clear your eyes.
You also hear her sobbing.

>>499678
B-But how could I be? I'm talking to you!

>>499679
Corvette and Hot Pursuit are off to a bad start, and your holding back means you are on par with them.
The others whizz past, with Milky Way taking the lead. You swear you can hear Voltage laugh heartily though.

Score:
1 Corvette '1d6+1'
1 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
3 Voltage '1d6'
4 Milky Way '1d5'
3 Orange Crush '1d5'
1 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 6 + 1 = 7 / Roll #2 3 = 3 / Roll #3 3 = 3 / Roll #4 3 = 3 / Roll #5 3 = 3

499681

>>499680
Keep sobbing.
"I-i-i d-don't know!
I swear!"

499682

>>499680
>>499681
I'll pause a moment.
"…Little one? Are you alright?"

499683

>>499681
The voice becomes panicked.
I-Is that why I can't move?!

499684

>>499682
Suddenly shut up.
>>499683
Bite my lip even harder.
"Sorry…"

499685

>>499680
Hehe. Keep going. '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

499686

>>499684
"Are you hurt? Little one?"

499687

>>499686
"N-no…"

499688

>>499687
"That's a relief."

499689

>>499684
You hear silence. And then… the colt silently sobs back.
I don't want to be dead!

>>499685
Everyone including you seems to be keeping the pace and places they got, except Corvette who dashes past everypony else and even beats Milky Way by a wingspan's lenght.

8 Corvette '1d6+1'
4 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
6 Voltage '1d6'
7 Milky Way '1d5'
6 Orange Crush '1d5'
4 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3 / Roll #2 4 = 4 / Roll #3 1 = 1 / Roll #4 2 = 2 / Roll #5 1 = 1

499690

>>499689
"It… It's not that bad…
Nopony can hurt you more, now…"

499691

>>499690
Nopony can make me feel good either!

499692

>>499689
Now, let's see if I can make a comeback here while still flying at a moderate pace.

Roll #1 2 = 2

499693

>>499691
"I'm sorry…"
Start moving back towards the entrance of the house.

499694

>>499692
Not with that pace you can't.
Corvette is still in the lead, while Voltage falls back a bit to be neck by neck with Orange Crush.
You are behind them all.

11 Corvette '1d6+1'
8 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
7 Voltage '1d6'
9 Milky Way '1d5'
7 Orange Crush '1d5'
6 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 4 + 1 = 5 / Roll #2 3 = 3 / Roll #3 2 = 2 / Roll #4 5 = 5 / Roll #5 1 = 1

499695

>>499694
Fiiine, let's try to climb up the rank then. See if I can make up for the slacking.

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9

499696

>>499693
All is quiet as you make distance from the skeleton.
Don't forget your bucket.

499697

>>499696
The bucket… Take her away, too!

499698

>>499695
Now that is racing! You start to take it seriously, and pass most of the others. Corvette is still taking the lead though.

16 Corvette '1d6+1'
11 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
9 Voltage '1d6'
14 Milky Way '1d5'
8 Orange Crush '1d5'
15 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4 / Roll #2 6 = 6 / Roll #3 4 = 4 / Roll #4 3 = 3 / Roll #5 3 = 3

499699

>>499697
You grab the bucket, but there is no water in it.

499700

>>499698
Try to swoop past her and slap my tail against her flank while doing so.

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

499701

>>499699
No matter, Maybe she will come back…
Run out without turning back!

499702

>>499701
You dart out of the house.
The unicorn is outside.

>>499700
You do just that, and how! You slow down just enough so you can hear her say "Grrrr, Skimmer!!!" before taking a huge lead before everypony else.

20 Corvette '1d6+1'
17 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
13 Voltage '1d6'
17 Milky Way '1d5'
11 Orange Crush '1d5'
26 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3 / Roll #2 3 = 3 / Roll #3 3 = 3 / Roll #4 5 = 5 / Roll #5 3 = 3

499703

>>499702
Stop. Just flutter in place and watch them approach.

499704

>>499702
Stop in front of him, wide eyed.
"Ah!"

499705

>>499701
>>499704
"I got a little worried when you wandered off, little one."
I'll wave a little.

499706

>>499704
You drop the bucket when you say "Ah!" since it requires an open mouth.

>>499703
Corvette seems flustered since she is losing speed, allowing Milky Way to catch up to her but not pass her just yet.
Orange Crush seems to be a bit behind, and Voltage seems to be tiring as well.
Three more rounds after this before it's finished.

23 Corvette '1d6+1'
20 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
16 Voltage '1d6'
22 Milky Way '1d5'
14 Orange Crush '1d5'

Roll #1 4 + 1 = 5 / Roll #2 1 = 1 / Roll #3 6 = 6 / Roll #4 2 = 2 / Roll #5 1 = 1

499707

>>499705
>>499706
Pick up the bucket again and shut up, looking at the unicron with a scared, tearful face.

499708

>>499706
Just let them catch up.
Wave at Corvette as she passes by.

499709

>>499707
"What's the matter?"
I'll look a little worried.

499710

>>499709
Say nothing, but move a bt further away from the house, still looking at you.

499711

>>499710
"Well, alright, so long as you're safe. Let's go back to the others…"
I'll look at the bucket.
"Unless you'd like to help me fetch some water while we're out here?"

499712

>>499711
Look down at the bucket myself and wipe a few teears from my face before nodding.

499713

>>499712
"Alright, let's go check and see if this place has a well."

499714

>>499713
Stick closee to him.

499715

>>499714
Time to find us a well, if there is one. '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

499716

>>499708
She drops a quick "I'll get you!" as she flies by.
Voltage pulls back brilliantly, but Orange is hopelessly behind.

28 Corvette '1d6+1'
21 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
22 Voltage '1d6'
24 Milky Way '1d5'
15 Orange Crush '1d5'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4 / Roll #2 2 = 2 / Roll #3 5 = 5 / Roll #4 2 = 2 / Roll #5 1 = 1

499717

>>499715
There is, and it's mostly intact too.
It's in the middle of a small square.

499718

>>499717
>>499715
Put the bucket down near it.
"She ran…"

499719

>>499716
God, Orange. What are you doing?
Now let's see if we can unfuck ourselves and still win this, or get to eat shit for being cocky.

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

499720

>>499717
Ha ha, time to pull water.
"You just keep a good hold on that bucket for now, little one."

499721

>>499718
"She?"

499722

>>499720
It has no bucket.

499723

>>499721
Don't answer and keep looking down.

499724

>>499722
Luckily, we do.
"Okay, I guess I need to borrow that bucket."
>>499723
"You don't have to answer if you don't want to."

499725

>>499724
Take a step away from the bucket.

499726

>>499719
You step it up and stay above most of the others, but the crimson mare is still ahead.
Two more chances to improve.

32 Corvette '1d6+1'
23 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
27 Voltage '1d6'
26 Milky Way '1d5'
16 Orange Crush '1d5'
30 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 6 + 1 = 7 / Roll #2 4 = 4 / Roll #3 1 = 1 / Roll #4 3 = 3 / Roll #5 4 = 4

499727

>>499725
"Thank you."
And I'll pull some water with the bucket.

499728

>>499726
I have a nice view on her hindquarters from here though.

But let's try to overtake her anyway. Much more fun that way.

Roll #1 9 + 2 = 11

499729

>>499727
Roll for it's quality.

>>499728
They are pretty good looking hindquarters.
Still, you manage to grab the lead for yourself, but you better give it your all now. Final turn, final push!

39 Corvette '1d6+1'
27 Hot Pursuit '1d6'
28 Voltage '1d6'
29 Milky Way '1d5'
20 Orange Crush '1d5'
41 Cloud Skimmer

Roll #1 4 + 1 = 5 / Roll #2 6 = 6 / Roll #3 2 = 2 / Roll #4 5 = 5 / Roll #5 4 = 4

499730

>>499729
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

499731

>>499729
Push! Win or lose!

Roll #1 3 + 2 = 5

499732

>>499730
It's pretty mucky.

499733

>>499731

Final Score:
44 Corvette
33 Hot Pursuit
30 Voltage
34 Milky Way
24 Orange Crush
46 Cloud Skimmer

You won! Corvette came in second, Milky Way third, followed by Hot Pursuit and then Voltage. Orange Crush caught up a bit at the end, but he was pretty behind all race.
"Excuuuuuuuuuuuuse me, Cloud Skimmer? Do you have anything to say for yourself?" Corvette gives you a challenging look.
Milky Way let's out a sigh. "Told you, almost had this race at one point!"
The others are too busy drinking.

499734

>>499732
Look into the water.
Is she… Back?

499735

>>499734
You think she is, but it's… hard to see her from all the floaty green stuff.

499736

>>499733
Hold up my hooves.
"Please don't kill me!"

499737

>>499736
"Give me a good reason!"

499738

>>499732
Hmm.
"Well, it has been a while since this town has seen some use."
Keep dredging water until the gunk is less prevalent.
>>499734
"Look out, little one, I'm going to be dumping this out until we get some cleaner water."

499739

>>499738
With some luck there might be rainwater collected somewhere near though.

499740

>>499735
…Okay. It's fine like this.
>>499738
"But… She…"
Widen my eyes, and form a begging expression.

499741

>>499739
I can be lucky… '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

499742

>>499737
"I have a family to feed! Three little children from four different mares!"

499743

>>499740
"She? There's no one in the bucket, little one."
I'll think a moment.
"Did you see someone?"

499744

>>499743
Open and close my mouth,then timidly look insidethe bucket again.
"She…"

499745

>>499744
"What did she look like?"

499746

>>499741
There is a collapsed building nearby.
By the wall, there is a wooden washbasin, with clear water in it.

499747

>>499745
Point at the reflection in the water.

499748

>>499746
Ah, that's good.
>>499747
"Ah. Aha. Little one, that is your reflection."

499749

>>499742
Hot Pursuit bursts out laughing.
Voltage is chatting with Orange.
Corvette takes a few steps forward you.
"You can live then, but they won't be happy when I give you back to them!"

499750

>>499749
"P-Please… have m-mercy on a poor, hard working stallion!"

499751

>>499748
"Re…?"

499752

>>499750
She raises a hoof to her chin.
"Hmmm………..nah."
She pounces and tries to grab you in a headlock!
Roll to dodge if you want to

499753

>>499752
Ah! I'll use her momentum to turn the roles around!

Roll #1 6 = 6

499754

>>499753
She almost got you, but you grab her instead.
"Wa-Hey!"

499755

>>499751
I'll nod.
"Here, let me show you."
I'll dump out the grungy water back into the well, and then show Felfire the rainwater trough.
"You see, water can sometimes act like a mirror, and show what's looking in it."

499756

>>499755
I don't quite know what a mirror is but…
"That…"
Touch the reflection with a hoof.
"Is me?"
Bring that hoof to my chest.

499757

>>499754
"Another mare falls victim to the infamous Cloud Skimmer's charms, melting in his arms as she gazes in those beautiful blue eyes of his. He draws nearer, whispering a single sentence into her ears with those beautiful lips."
Move my mouth near her ears as I speak and whisper very quietly.
"Second place is just the first place loser."

499758

>>499756
The filly brings her hoof to her chest.
She looks cute.

499759

>>499756
I'll nod.
"Yes. That's you. Once we get off the island, I'll show you a real mirror, though."
I'll dip the bucket in and fill up the bucket with clean water.

499760

>>499757
She narrows her eyes at you.
"I'm going to make you lose something really precious, Prince Charming."

499761

>>499759
Step back and grow quiet once more, following the unicorn.

499762

>>499761
And we'll head back to the others.

499763

>>499760
I chuckle and release her.
"I'm just teasing you, Corvette. You're a pretty decent flier, you know. If you trained more I bet you'd be amazing."

499764

>>499763
She chuckles as well, and fixes her mane.
"I know I am. You know it wasn't about you winning again."

499765

>>499764
I feign innocence.
"Whaaaat?"

499766

>>499765
"You want me to show you don't you?"

499767

>>499766
"Show me what?"

499768

>>499767
"Don't play stupid, I don't want you to act on your existing condition."
She smirks.

499769

>>499768
"Is this about your flank? I know you love talking about it Corvette, but it's a little inappropriate!"

499770

>>499769
"Oh you wish you had a mare with a flank like this!"

499771

>>499770
Shake my head in disapproval.
"I'm disappointed in you. Here we were conversing like normal adults, and then you just had to butt in like this. In more ways than one, no less. Are you seeing this, Pursuit? She's out of control again."

499772

>>499771
He chuckles.
"She has a point about her butt though."
Voltage let's out a laugh as well.
"You guys never cease to amaze me. I wonder if you'll ever get a room to 'rest out a race' once." She holds a hoof to her mouth and giggles.
Milky leans against the table.
"If you do, I want in on that. I always bring the food and stuff, it's the least I could get in return."

499773

>>499772
"Voltage please. You know I'm way out of Corvette's league. Stop feeding her false hope."

499774

>>499773
Corvette shoots you a look, but when Milky shrugs and says "It will be less fun with just the two of us though." both she, Pursuit and Voltage bursts out laughing again.

499775

>>499774
Laugh along then.

499776

>>499775
After things calm down, Orange speaks up.
"Today was fun, even though I sucked, but I have to cut it short. I'm giving a hoof to my sister in prettying up her house."
"Want some help with that?"
"Thanks, but I'm good."
After the goodbyes she leaves, Voltage and Milky Way leaving soon as well because of this and that.
Hot Pursuit spreads his wings.
"You two want to have a beer before we head home? It's on the winner tonight I heard."

499777

>>499776
"Ha! Where did you hear that nonsense?"
I smirk.
"I suppose we can anyway. Sure."

499778

>>499777
Corvette pokes your chest.
"Oh, you owe us that much, especially after being so cocky again!"
She starts flying back towards the city with you and Hot Pursuit, and you go to a familiar pub.
There are a few people hanging around, most of them talking over a coffee or a beer.

499779

>>499778
I laugh and follow.
"Alright, I'm sorry for being such a cocky bastard. Beers on me."

499780

>>499779
Pursuit shrugs as you three get seated and a waitress brings you your drinks.
"I don't know, it's either that or you just wait for us boredly at the finish line."

499781

>>499780
"It got pretty close today!"

499782

>>499781
Corvette gives you a look.
"You mean apart from you stopping?"

499783

>>499782
"I… needed a breather?"

499784

>>499783
"Like Orange, huh?"
Corvette snickers at his comment.

499785

>>499784
"He must've drank too much before the race or something."

499786

>>499785
"While we're on topic, cheers!"
Pursuit raises his glass then starts drinking.
Corvette does the same.
"Technically I took first place since you don't count after all these wins, right?"

499787

>>499786
Drink too.
"If that's what's needed to bring a smile to that lovely face of yours, let's say you did."

499788

>>499787
"If you're trying to make me blush, it's not working."
"Hey, that means I was third! That's a bronze at least!"

499789

>>499788
"Relax, Corvette. There's no need to be so intense."

499790

>>499789
She leans back in her seat.
"Who says I'm not relaxed? I've got free beer!"
"Wonder whose idea that was, huh!"

499791

>>499790
"How's life for you two going anyway? Seems like we're all busy these days."

499792

>>499791
"Work does that to you, yeah."
"I've been spending some more time with Libby lately."
He takes a long drink from his beer, then after a pause speaks more calmly than his usual manner.
"You know… I'm thinking of engaging her."

499793

>>499792
Of course, Corvette respons by going "Awwwww, that's so sweet!"

499794

>>499792
"Really? Wow that's… great! Any specific plans you have in mind for that?"

499795

>>499794
He shakes his head.
"Not yet, but I want it to be special, for both of us. Maybe take her to Los Pegasus, where we met."

499796

>>499795
I whistle.
"Stylish."

499797

>>499796
"The best thing is, I think Orange has a cousin who can get VIP tickets in one of those big new theaters."
"You really take good care of that mare, Pursuit!"

499798

>>499797
"Yeah, I'm almost getting a little jealous of that mare now."

499799

>>499798
He smiles and shrugs.
"Hey, I'm just doing what I must. Can't go with anything but the best, can I?"
Corvette chuckles.
"Aww, don't worry Skimmer, I'm sure one day a strong handsome stallion will take good care of you."
She finishes her beer.

499800

>>499799
"And a mare for you, Corvette."
I snicker, then turn back to Pursuit.
"But you're damn right about that. Treat that lady of yours well."

499801

>>499800
"Gonna' go to sleep with that thought?"

Pursuit orders another round.
"I will, but hey, with your father being the boss at the factory, make sure my wedding day will be scheduled sunny, will you?"
He chuckles.

499802

>>499801
"Every night, Corvette. And you better keep us informed, Pursuit."

499803

>>499802
She giggles, while he nods, but finishes his beer quick.
"It was fun, guys, but I'm bailing too. Don't want her to start getting worried. When do we repeat?"
"It will be mostly good in five days from now if I think. Skimmer?"

499804

>>499803
"Yeah, I reckon that's about right. Thanks for the laughs, guys."

499805

>>499804
Corvette gives him a hug and congratulates him again before he leaves.
She sits back down.
"I guess we finish this drink and that's it for today, huh?"

499806

>>499805
I nod.
"It's nice to unwind like this every so often."

499807

>>499806
"The magic of friendship, Skimmer!"

499808

>>499807
"And the magic of alcohol. Hard to say which is more potent."
Glance at her.
"You know, if you were to have the time to spare, we could practice flight together every so often. It's seemingly impossible to find a suitable wingpony for whatever reason, but you've got plenty of potential."

499809

>>499808
"Are you suggesting we drink more to find out?"
She then waves a hoof around.
"I'll think about it. I'm not sure I could handle you that much."

499810

>>499809
"Well, it wouldn't be for joking around like I did today, that's for sure. I need to improve further, having somepony to rely on while practicing keeps you motivated."

499811

>>499810
She leans forward on the table.
"Look, I'd love to help you, I really would but we both know I can't keep up with you if you fly like you mean it."

499812

>>499811
"Don't be so modest. All it takes is some training, Corvette. You're a damn good flier!"

499813

>>499812
"I'm not saying I'm not, but you are better. You're sure it's worth the hassle to bring me up to speed just to be your wingpony?"

499814

>>499813
"I'm just offering, Corvette. I'm not going to hold it against you if you're not interested, I'll just find somepony else to endlessly torment."

499815

>>499814
She snorts.
"That's what I'm worried about.
I'll consider it."

499816

>>499815
"Right then, let's get back to drinking."

499817

>>499816
She grins.
"You're the stallion, you pay."

499818

>>499817
"That's sexist!"

499819

>>499818
"If you are not up to the task I guess I'll have to look for a stallion who is…"

499820

>>499819
"I'd like to see you try."

499821

>>499820
"You don't like competition?"

499822

>>499821
"No, I mean I'd actually like to see you try seduce a stallion into buying you a drink. I reckon you can't."

499823

>>499822
"Watch me!"
She gets up and walks over to the bar, beside a stallion who is sitting there.

499824

>>499823
Oh this should be good. Watch her.

499825

>>499824
She looks at him with a seductive gaze and says something that you can't make out through the murmur of the pub, but soon the stallion goes almost as red as Corvette's coat.
In less than two minutes she is back at the table with a drink, and the stallion rushes into the bathroom.

She looks smug, but doesn't say a word.

499826

>>499825
"Impressive. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you have a lot of experience in this field of work."

499827

>>499826
She sips from her drink.
"You are just jealous I can get free drinks and you can't."

499828

>>499827
"You've got me there, sister."

499829

>>499828
She rests her head on a hoof and occasionally sips from the straw.
"And you were so sure I couldn't, too."

499830

>>499829
"Maybe I just enjoy watching mares seducing stallions."

499831

>>499830
"First the naughty dreams, now this!
You've got the weirdest kinks, Skimmer."

499832

>>499831
"Why do you always gotta judge, Corvette?"

499833

>>499832
"Hey, as far as you know I could have said that affectionately."

499834

>>499833
"That's disgusting, Corvette."

499835

>>499834
"Why do you always gotta judge, Skimmer?"
She definitely looks smug.

499836

>>499835
"Thanks for ruining my bad joke."

499837

>>499836
"All of your jokes are bad though, yet you make us suffer through them anyway."

499838

>>499837
"I never claimed to be a comedian. A sadist however? Maybe a little."

499839

>>499838
She shakes her head.
"Tsk tsk tsk, tormenting your poor friends like that."

499840

>>499839
"You torment me right back though, don't you?"
I smirk.
"Well, I don't know about you, but I got work tomorrow. I should probably get back home soonish."

499841

>>499840
"Do I? And should you?"

499842

>>499841
"Maybe you'd rather come with me to my place?"

499843

>>499842
She giggles.
"Oh, wouldn't that risk the state of weather tomorrow?"

499844

>>499843
"Are you looking forward to the rain that much?"

499845

>>499844
"Got to have some variety, it would get boring really fast if all we ever had was sunshine!"

499846

>>499845
"Guess that's true. Don't let the princess hear you say that though, she'll chop your head off."

499847

>>499846
"Is that another of your fantasies?"

499848

>>499847
"Not at all. I'd rather not lose you."

499849

>>499848
"Aww, I wouldn't lose you either."
She snickers.
"If you ever get in trouble with some bullies just tell me, right?"

499850

>>499849
"That's most kind and generous of you."

499851

>>499850
"First the wingpony torment of standing you for a lot of time, now this, you're starting to rack up quite a debt."

499852

>>499851
"Are you going to extort me now? What do you want from me?"

499853

>>499852
She finishes her drink and leans back.
"I don't know, mares are mysterious creatures aren't they?"

499854

>>499853
"Very."

499855

>>499854
She stretches her wings.
"Well, if you are going to go home to rest before tomorrow I won't keep you up with all my mystery then."

499856

>>499855
"How graceful of you! Still, my door at home is always open."

499857

>>499856
"Dare I enter the wyvern's den?"

499858

>>499857
"You've been there before, no?"

499859

>>499858
"Yes, and your room smelled like a wyvern nested there!"

499860

>>499859
"Now now, that's just rude."

499861

>>499860
She shrugs.
"Did you have a window open? I might consider paying you a visit then. It's not like I'd have much to do home alone."

499862

>>499861
"I think I did, on a sunny day like this."

499863

>>499862
She stands up from her seat.
"I'm going to regret this, I'm sure."
She chuckles.

499864

>>499863
"I'll give you a money back guarantee."
Get up too. Pay up for the drinks.

499865

>>499864
You pay and the two of you leave.
You two are soon in front of your house.
"Ever thought of fancying the looks of your house up?"

499866

>>499865
"Sure, once I scrape enough money together. It's not really a priority right now."

499867

>>499866
"Can't you just get a bit of a rainbow from your father or something?"

499868

>>499867
"I don't like relying too much on him."

499869

>>499868
"It's just a rainbow! You'd be saving money!"

499870

>>499869
"Yeah I know… I guess I could ask him."

499876

>>499870
She giggles.
"Get me one too while you're at it."

499917

>>499876
"Oh so this is why you're pushing so much for it."

499918

>>499917
She tries to look innocent.
'1d10'
"No~"

Roll #1 10 = 10

499919

>>499918
I groan.
"You are just too good at this."

499920

>>499919
"Would I ever use you, Skim?"

499921

>>499920
"Oh yes you would!"

499922

>>499921
"I'd never!"

499923

>>499922
"You're a real vixen, Corvette."

499924

>>499923
"I'll take that as a compliment.
So, are we going to stand out here, or will you open the door?"

499925

>>499924
"Excuse me, princess."
Open the door.
"Should I extend the red carpet for your sensitive little hoofsies to walk on?"

499926

>>499925
"If you would, and please prepare the silk too!"
She flutters just inches above the floor and goes in before you.

499927

>>499926
"Of course, your highness."
Walk in after her.

499928

>>499927
She glances around.
"Not much has changed since my last visit, huh?"

499929

>>499928
"Why would there be? It's not perfect, but it's a place to call home."

499930

>>499929
"I mean, no brand new thropies or anything, how boring!"

499931

>>499930
"My trophies tend to disappear in the morning."

499932

>>499931
She gives you a look.
"Oh really."

499933

>>499932
I just smirk, then start snickering.
"Not really, no."

499934

>>499933
She sits down on your couch.
"I thought you always won the daily award of magicians, and that's why it always just pops out of existence."

499935

>>499934
"How did you know? When I was a colt, I always wanted to become a mage when I grew up. At the time, it seemed like a great idea."

499936

>>499935
"At the time!
All those poor, poor orphaned bunnies…"

499937

>>499936
"I never actually did any magic tricks. My parents said that stuff should be left to those unicorns down on the ground so…"

499938

>>499937
"Their loss, they can't fly!"

499939

>>499938
"But they can do magic, which is kind of neat, no?"

499940

>>499939
She shrugs.
"What we do is magical, isn't it? I mean, they have a spell to recreate flying. Doesn't that mean flying is magic to them?"

499941

>>499940
I smile slightly.
"That's surprisingly deep, Corvette. I guess there's that, yes. Cloud magic."

499942

>>499941
She looks a bit hurt.
"Hey, you did not just suggest I was shallow, did you?"

499943

>>499942
"Of course not! You'd hurt me if I did!"

499944

>>499943
"You bet I would!"

499945

>>499944
"Should I start begging for mercy already?"

499946

>>499945
She extends a hoof for you to kiss.
"At once."

499947

>>499946
Get on my knees and look up at her with a fake pout, then place a kiss on her hoof.
"Your grace."

499948

>>499947
She raises her head, then speeks with a snooty accent.
"You may live, for now."

499949

>>499948
Hope back onto my hooves.
"Now, want another beer? Or just soda?"

499950

>>499949
"What do I look like, Orange Crush? Bring on the beer!"

499951

>>499950
"So feisty."
Shake my head and fetch two beers from the fridge.

499953

>>499951
She takes hers.
"Thirsty is the word you are looking for."

499954

>>499953
Take a drink from mine.
"Well while we're here, tell me how life's going for you. I'm curious."


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