/q/ - Quest

ADVENTURE!

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507594

[Character Sheets and Information: http://goo.gl/y9CC4 ]

As you all recover from your previous ordeals, laying near the remnants of your old camp, the wind starts picking up. The sky is turning gray and it's obvious rain is coming.

Before you can ponder on where to find shelter, all of you hear movement nearby.

507595

>>507594
Might be the paladins. They were after the bear as well. Let's make sure that Vilina has my cloak over her and is comfortable.
"Sounds like we're about to have company soon."

507596

>>507594
Uh oh. Prepare my hammer!
"What's that? Something's coming!"

507597

>>507594
Spring to my hooves and assume fencing position with a rapier.
Perk my ears.
What can I make out?
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 9 + 1 = 10

507598

>>507594
Stand up, enbrace my shield.
"Watch my back Indy."

507599

>>507595
She holds the cloak wrapped around her body.
"They can't see me like this…"

>>507596
>>507597
>>507598
You all get ready in battle formation. Indy even adopts his trademark dragon kung fu pose.
Everyone waits with bated breath as 2 crystal ponies appear on the road.
Both armored in crystal armor and wearing crystal weapons.
They stop as they notice you.

507600

>>507599
"Oh. Come a bit late, have you?"

507601

>>507599
"And they won't, so long as you're wrapped up. You'll be fine."
>>507599
Crystal ponies. So there are only two paladins?
"Amber, I believe it's time you introduced yourself."

507602

>>507599
Sheathe my sword.
"That's a relief."

507603

>>507599
I gasp.
"Oh! Oh oh oh! Are you guys… paladins? You must be!"
Put away my hammer.

507604

As they see you mean no harm, they come closer. But they look coldly at all of you.

>>507600
>>507601
>>507602
"Are all of you responsible for the slaying of the Ursa?" The male crystal pony says in a harsh tone.

>>507603
The male then notices you, and he looks a little less harsh towards you as he sees the book you carry.
"You're an Aspirant?"

507605

>>507604
Step forward and lower my head.
Drop my ears too.
"It was in self defense.
I am sorry."

507606

>>507604
"Yes!"
I smile proudly.
"I'm Amber! What's your name?"

507607

>>507604
"It was felled by our group, yes. A Draconequis thought it would be amusing to set us against each other."

507608

>>507605
They both overlook you.
"There are strict laws regarding Ursa. You sh-…"

>>507607
Their ears perk up.
"A….draconequus? That's the silliest excuse I've heard in all my years."

>>507606
"Shattered Stone. Tell me, what happened here Aspirant? Is this story about a draconequus true?"

507609

>>507608
I'll just shrug.

507610

>>507608
"We did it in self-defense.
It was to protect our friends."

507611

>>507608
Nod my head vigorously.
"He's the one who caused all this! He was one of our companions… but we didn't know he was actually a draconecuisine. I… felt it though. There was something evil about him!"
Droop my ears slightly.
"He still got away in the end…"

507612

>>507608
Wake up in my bed.
What did I miss?

507613

>>507609
>>507610
>>507611
They remain quiet for a little while, looking towards the giant tree, the destroyed camp, the devastated forest. They exchange a look of understanding before Shattered speaks up again.
"We will take you with us to our camp to speak to High Lady Crown. She will figure out what's going on here. Either way, you shouldn't stay too long here, this dust tends to have strange effects upon ponies."
He glances at the glowing Amber. "Did any of you have any adverse effects of this dust?"

>>507612
>bed
Your bed as you might remember is gone, as is the camp.
You and the others were sitting with Star near a small campfire trying to get to terms with what happened, when 2 crystal paladins showed up and started asking what happened.

507614

>>507608
"Bah."
Look a bit pissed off at her, but lie back beside Iris.

507615

>>507613
"I was out of the blast radius, thankfully.
Not all our friends were that lucky."

507616

>>507613
I shrug at the question of the crystal pony.
"What are two ponies doing here if Snack might ask?" I close my arm.

507617

>>507613
"I managed to evade it, but I believe one or two of us may have been effected."
I'll look at Iris.

507618

>>507613
"I did! I think I give light now, which isn't too bad. It's going to be hard sleeping like this though! Maybe I should buy an eyemask to help with that."
Do I know High Lady Crown? She sounds important!

507619

>>507614
nuzzle nuzzle '1d10+2'
"maybe they can help with the…"
She points at her throat.

>>507615
"Who?"

>>507616
He looks towards you.
"We and our host have been hunting this Ursa for quite a while now. We were hoping to destroy it according to proper regulations, capturing it within a magic bubble and encapsulating the explosion. To prevent all of…this."
He waves his hoof to the devastated forest.

>>507617
Iris hides behind Soil.
Stone looks at her.
"Miss? Have you been affected?"

>>507618
"Even so, you will have to see our medicae within our camp. There might be other effects that are not as clearly visible."

Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12

507620

>>507619
"The ponies affected are still in a bit of a shock. Just give it a rest while we get to your camp. Once there, you can help them without any humiliation or shame that they might feel."

507621

>>507619
"What?"
I look at Amber in confusion.

>>507618
"Didnt the Crystal pony paladins warn Amber pony about this?"

507622

>>507619
I'll nod slightly.
"The magic bubble would have certainly had less… chaotic results. Do you know if the effects are permanent?"

507623

>>507619
"Oh yeah! Like internal stuff things. I'm not a doctor or anything, but I know some stuff about anatomy!"

>>507620
"I'm not in shock, Mabel!"

>>507621
"I wasn't supposed to attack it on my own!"

507624

>>507623
"I didn't mean you, Amber, I can see that you are fine."

507625

>>507623
"No little pony, didnt paladin ponies warn you about Ursa exploding if they are killed on sight?"

507626

>>507624
Stick out my tongue at her.

>>507625
"Uh… I think he did mention that, yeah!"

507627

>>507626
I stare at her.
"Well Amber pony could have told us about it. All of us are in the dark, well not now that is."

I then whisper to her.
"Do Amber know who these Crystal ponies are? Snack is a bit skeptical with them appearing right after we taken care of problem here."

507628

>>507620
He looks at you and Amber.
"This seems acceptable. Everypony is capable of following us on their own? We can get backup if somepony needs to be carried."

>>507622
"That would be for the medicae to determine."

>>507623
"You will stay next to us while we travel, Aspirant."

507629

>>507627
"I didn't exactly have time to warn anyone when he was all up our grill all of the sudden! And sure I know who they are."
Point at the stallion.
"That's Shattered Stone! Weren't you listening? He told us just a moment ago!"

507630

>>507628
"I think we will be fine, thank you."

507631

>>507628
"I think we mostly just need to pick up the pieces, and then we'll be ready. How is Ponyville, by the way? The Draconequis mentioned something about stirring trouble there?"

507632

>>507628
I smile and walk up to them.
"Where is the camp at? I'm so excited to be with you guys! This is the second time I get to walk with actual paladins!"

507633

>>507629
"I was listening little pony! Snack is just confirming if Amber knows and trust them!"

>>507628
"When will we be leaving?" I look at the two.

507634

>>507633
I look confused.
"They're paladins, of course I trust them! They're not like Bedrock, otherwise I'd sense it."

507635

>>507631
"We have not had contact with Ponyville in over a week. But if he said that…"
He scratches his chin.
"We shall send a courier to make sure everything is okay. The draconequus probably said that to unnerve you, but it might be best to be sure."

>>507630
He nods.

>>507633
"As soon as possible."

>>507632
The stallion looks towards the others but talks to you.
"The camp is about 30 minutes from here."

507636

>>507635
The other paladin is a mare right?
"Hi! What's your name?"

507637

>>507635
I'll nod.
Then start gathering things up. And keeping the Bag of Holding with me. The tent shouldn't take too long… assuming it's in good enough condition to bother keeping.

507638

>>507635
Grab my tent, or what's left of it, and my other stuff.
"What a mess this day turned out to be."

507639

>>507634
I huff and ruffled her mane.
"Snack is just asking if they are paladins that Amber knows…. Snack is a bit skeptical now with new comers after…. the Bedrock incident."

>>507635
I began to get whatever it is that I have left in the camp and go help Star with hers as well.
"…. Snack has doubts Star learned something about runed crystals in this place. Maybe if we've gone to Ponyville after this, Snack has heard there is a big library there."

507640

>>507637
There are a few holes in it.

>>507636
She looks at you.
"Clear Ice."
She puts her hoof to her heart as a salute.

>>507638
>>507637

WE LEAVE ONCE EVERYONE IS READY

507641

>>507640
Bah. I might as well just get a new tent… Bedroll and such should still be good. Gather that up, and I'm set to go. If any of the foodstuff survived, I'll see if any of that's edible. Fighting a bear is hungry work.

507642

507643

>>507642
Star shudders.
"O forgot all about them!"
She trots over to her tent.
"Oh Savior…they're allright…"
She puts the crystals and tablets away in her bag.

507644

>>507639
I frown as he ruffles my mane.
"There's a lot of crystal ponies out there, I can't possibly know them all!"

>>507640
"That's a nice name! I kind of wish I had a name with two words in it instead of just one word, but Amber is good enough for me so it's okay."
Mimic her gesture.

507645

>>507643
I'll stop short a moment.
"There was one more thing. Mabel, you have the cube still, correct?"

507646

>>507645
I nod.
"I do, yes. Maybe that can wait until we get there.
It won't go anywhere from my bags this time, hopefully."

507647

>>507643
I frown a bit.
"Take care of it, these are one of the few clues we have if we want to face undead dragon."
"Any plans that Star want to execute once all of us are out of this place?"

>>507644
I just scratch my head at her pig-headedness and just leave her.

507648

>>507646
>>507640
Hearing this, I look at my bag and double check it if the black cube suddenly goes in it again.

507649

>>507619
What a nuzzle!
"I will ask."
Look back at those ponies.

507650

>>507649
They are waiting for all of you to pack up.

>>507648
There is no black cube in there.

>>507647
She shakes her head.
"I don't know…I just want to have a nice warm bath and a bed…."

>>507644
She turns back to the preperations.

507651

>>507650
… She seems nice!
Wait for us to leave then.

507652

>>507650
I'm pretty much ready to go. How about Vilina and Tulip?

507653

>>507650
"Snack thinks all of us really need one." I grin.
"And a warm meal too. Chicken soup might be nice."

Pack my bag and secure everything and wait for us to head out.
All the while jkeeping an eye on danger of course.

507654

>>507652
They are ready to go.
Want to talk to them

>>507653
She frowns. "Chicken?"

WHO'S READY?

507655

>>507650
Alright, alright. Pack up my stuff.
And the book cart.
>>507654
Snort. I'm ready, I'm ready!

507656

>>507654
I'm ready.
And let's talk to Tulip and Vilina. We can all walk together.
"How are you holding up, Tulip?"

507657

>>507654
Ready to roll out

507658

>>507655
Rolling for the the percentage of books left intact '1d10' * 10.

>>507656
She's grumpy.
"Good thing I have insurance for that tent. I'll contact somepony to get me a new one once we're in Ponyvilly."

Roll #1 6 = 6

507659

>>507658
More than half, the most important ones and the Daring Do collection are still intact.
Some others are lost however.
Iris says little.
She's probably just waiting for the day to end.

507660

>>507658
"I'd think you'd be more focused on the almost being eaten by a giant parasprite, and an ursa minor besides."

507661

>>507654
"Different diets and taste." I smile at her.
Ready

507662

>>507658
Go over there and poke her side with a little smile.
"C'mon. It's not the end of the world."

507663

>>507660
"They're dead, aren't they?"

TIME FOR TRANSITION

507664

>>507663
I'll shrug.
"Yes, but that's still not something a pony sees every day."
Transitions are fun.

507665

After a 30 minutes walk the trees give way to a large clearing. There are a number of tents here and an even larger number of crystal ponies, some dressed in crystal armor, other younger ones in regular armor. In the middle is a large tent guarded by 2 ponies.
Stones turns towards you.
"You, you, you and of course, you Aspirant" He points to Snacks, Warren, Mabel and Amber.
"You will accompany me to talk to High Lady Crown." I forgot to say Amber doesn't know her.
"Miss Ice will accompany the rest of you to get you settled, there are some free tents still available, and there are a few medicae available should you have need of them."

507666

>>507665
Nod.
"As you wish."

507667

>>507665
I'll nod, then turn to Tulip and Vilina.
"Will you two be alright? It might be a good idea to check with their healers just in case."

507668

>>507665
Try not to squee in excitement.
"There's… so… many of you!"

Roll #1 4 = 4

507669

>>507665
I nod a bit before looking at Star and wave a bit as we leave.
"SNack didnt know Crystal ponies are pouring out to explore the world." I look at the place in awe.

507670

>>507665
Raise a hoof.

507671

>>507666
He waves you to follow him.

>>507667
Tullip sighs loudly. "I'm going to sleep."
Vilina just nods meekly however.

>>507668
You can't supress a tiny squee.
Ice raises a brow.

>>507669
>a bit as we leave.
Uh wait, what are you doing here?
Are you leaving the encampment with Star?

>>507670
Stones looks at you.
"Yes?"

507672

>>507671
"Stay out of trouble, alright?"
And then I'll go stand over with the paladin leading us to Lady Crown's tent.

507673

>>507671
"Is there a doc here?"

507674

>>507671
Follow.

507675

>>507671
"It's been a while since I've been to the empire, don't judge me!"

507676

>>507671
Following Stones along with the others.

507677

507678

>>507673
"Miss Ice will lead any sick to the medicae…the doctors."

>>507672
>>507674
Just a sec.

>>507675
Ice looks inquisitively.
"When did you leave? Which group were you with?"

>>507676
>>507677
Stones turns towards you.
"We're here to keep order on the roads.
Will you accompany us inside the tent to report to the Lady?"

507679

>>507678
"Hey there's no need to use that tone with Amber! She's cool!"

507680

>>507678
"… I left on my own several months back. Until I met my friends a while back!"

507681

>>507678
I nod at Stones.
"That is good to hear, Stone pony's presence is much help specially in this time of trouble."

"Uhh.. alright." I nod as I enter.

507682

>>507679
She turns to you.
"She's a young mare, far from home, I believe I have the right to ask a few questions."

>>507680
"You ran away from home?"

AND SO ALL OF YOU ENTER THE LADY'S TENT

PAUSE

507683

>>507682
"No! I'm an adult pony! I left home."

507684

>>507683
>>507682
Just snicker at the back upon hearing this.

507872

>>507683
"And your parents agreed to that?"

507873

>>507872
"I bet her parents even gave her the hammer!"

507874

>>507872
I scrunch.
"… Not really. But I didn't need their agreement! I left them a letter!"

507875

>>507873
She gives you a smug look as Amber gives her answer truthfully.

>>507874
She turns back to you.
"What were their names?"

507876

>>507875
"Bah."
Frown at them both.

507877

>>507873
"They did! Dad taught me how to use it! I told you guys he was a guard, didn't I?"

>>507875
"Sparkling Pearl and Grind Dust, why?"

507878

>>507877
Nod firmly, then smirk at the other mare.

507879

>>507876
Clear Ice doesn't pay attention to you anymore.

>>507877
"I'll have to talk to High Lady Crown about this."
She speaks the words High Lady with a tinge of emotion.

507880

>>507879
"About what? Do you know my parents? Mom is a priestess, so it's possible!"

507881

>>507880
"To see if you can be transferred back to the Empire."

507882

>>507881
"WHAT?!"

507883

>>507881
"… What? Hey, why would I want that! I like it here, even if I miss home sometimes!"

507884

>>507882
>>507883
"This isn't a place for an Aspirant to take her first steps on the Path. You think an Ursa is bad? There are things lurking in the darkest places of the wilderness or cities. Things worse than your most horrible nightmares. You should be taught how to steel your mind properly in the Empire, not trot around Equestria at fate's mercy."

507885

>>507884
"Hey we ain't gonna let anything happen to Amber!"

507886

>>507884
"I don't think the ursa was too bad…"
I shake my head.
"And they need us here! They helped us, so we should help them back!"

507887

>>507885
"And who will teach her? You?"

>>507886
"I will not argue with this about you, Aspirant. Now I have matters to attend to."
She trots away to the High Lady's tent. Her elaborate crystal armor inscribed by the Sermons of Cadance glisten in the sunlight, a sharp contrast with her cold demeanor.

Is it Iris doctor tiem now?

507888

>>507887
Narrow my eyes.
"Bah."
>>507886
"We are not gonna let'em take you away, don't worry."
>>507887
Turn back to Iris and nuzzle her.
'1d10+2'
"Ready to go?"

Roll #1 1 + 2 = 3

507889

posting from phone

>>507887
I frown at her.
What a mean lady…

>>507888
"B-But… I'm supposed to follow my orders!"

507890

>>507888
She giggles as you nuzzle her.
But her heavy voice makes the giggle so awkward it sends shivers up your spine.
She quickly stops and puts her hoof in front of her mouth.
Stone guides you to the medicae tent. Vilina is already in the tent and as she shows her mutation to the flabbergasted medicae, he orders some curtains to be placed for her to get some privacy.
An armored stallion with a cross medallion walks up.
"What seems to be the problem?"
going to eat now.

507891

>>507889
"But those are stupid orders!"
Frown harder.
>>507890
Awkwardly point at Iris.

507892

>>507891
He looks at Iris.
After a few seconds, she says "there's something wrong with my voice."
If the healer thought that was weird, he doesn't show it.
"Very well, please sit down on that bench."
Iris goes sit down on the white bench.

>>507889
There are many more crystal pons here though and it might take a little while before you go inside the tent.
Maybe you could introduce yourself or you could go with Soil to the healer tent.

507893

>>507892
Lay by her, down on the floor, with a look of worry.

507894

>>507893
The stallion returns with a wooden tongue depressor. "Please open your mouth."
Iris opens her mouth wide and the stallion takes a look inside. "MMmmmmm."
He then feels her neck and asks if that hurts. Iris shakes her head.
The stallion then grabs a crystal and slowly moves it from the top of her head to the tip of her toes.
When it is at her neck, it lights up a bit, but the crystal acts normal otherwise.
"Mmmmmm."

507895

>>507894
Look with big puppy eyes between the two of them.

507896

>>507895
"Unusual enlargement of the vocal chords…Very interesting."
Iris eyes grow big. The stallion quickly adds "But it's only a little but of stardust energy that made it in. It should shrink back to its usual size…"

507897

>>507892
I was told to get myself checked! Let's go to the healer tent!

507898

>>507896
Let out a biiiig sigh of relief!

507899

>>507897
There are a few curtains where one healer is working on a patient needing privacy it seems.
You see Iris and Soil being tended by a healer.
Another paladin with a cross medallion walks up.
"You're here for a mutation check up I take it?"

>>507898
Iris allows herself to smile and gives you a quick happy look.
She turns back to the doctor. "How long?"
The doctor puts his crystal away.
"A few days, maybe….or perhaps a few weeks…"

507900

>>507899
I grin and nod quickly.
"Yes! I'm abnormally bright!"

507901

>>507900
"I noticed."
He points you to a bench.
"Lay down there. Are you a new initiate?"

507902

>>507901
Hop on top of the bench and lay down.
"Yup! I was even given this book to protect!"

507903

>>507899
Wave at Amber, but go back to Iris, resting my head on the bench she's sitting on.
"It's not that bad!"

507904

>>507902
"What's your name?"
He grabs a crystal and lets it hover above your body. The crystal lights up near your belly.

>>507903
She grabs your hoof and turns back to the healer.
"Can't you be more specific?"
"I'm sorry, miss. We don't know too much about stardust. It is highly volatile and its effects are not fully understood yet. I've checked and seen that there's not too many dust in your system, usually a low amount of exposure leads to only temporary effects, but there's no way to determine precisely how long…It averages around a few weeks."

507905

>>507904
"Isn't there a way to make it go faster?"

507906

>>507903
"Good!"

>>507904
I eye the crystal a little.
"Amber! What's your name?"

507907

>>507905
He takes a moment before speaking.
"There are experimental techniques, to attempt to extract the stardust. But those are usually reserved for ponies with a very high concentration of stardust since the procedure is very new…."

>>507906
"Sober. Nice to meet you, Amber."

507908

>>507907
"Like…"
Wave my hoof around to emphatize the point.
"Spooky magic?"

507909

>>507907
"Nice to meet you too, sir! Are you a paladin? A medical paladin?"

507910

>>507908
>Spooky
FREAKY*

507911

>>507908
>>507910
"You could say that. We use magic to attempt to neutralize the effects of the stardust in the affected body. But stardust is very unpredictable and has a way of bending magic. Most experiments went fine, but a small percentage of patients had their mutations worsened, a few others had their mutations come back after a few years."
Iris looks at him.
"what is the longest you've heard some of those temporary mutations last?"
The healer scratches his head. "Eh…I've heard of some fringe cases lasting quite a while…but those are the exceptions, the 1 in a thousand cases."

>>507909
"Many paladins know a minimum of healing magic, I've specialised in it to treat more serious wounds. Have you used any holy magic since you've been affected?"

507912

>>507911
Share a worried look with Iris, but say nothing.

507913

>>507911
"No holy healing magic, no! It didn't hurt after all! I know some advanced healing magic too, you know! Mom is a priestess of Cadance back home!"

507914

>>507913
"Would you mind casting a standard heal spell?"

>>507911
"How long?"
"A few years."
Iris' mouth drops open.
The healer quickly adds. "But understand, these are the fringe cases, I'm sure it will go away soon."

507915

>>507914
"Sure thing!"
Cast Heal.

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

507916

>>507914
Stand up and sit near Iris, moving a hoof behind her into a hug.

507917

>>507915
It works like a charm.
The stallion nods.
"Interesting."

>>507916
She leans her head a bit back, easing into your hug.
"I'll leave you 2 alone for a little bit."
He trots to another bed.
"Years…."

507918

>>507917
"But that's only if you got hit by a lot of that stuff!
I'm sure you will do great!"

507919

>>507917
"… Is it? This isn't going to stay forever, is it? I mean… it's nice and all, but imagine how hard sleeping is going to be!"

507920

>>507918
"Will you stay with me?"

>>507919
"The vital energy within your body has gone into complete flux, causing you to light up like a lantern…but while I thought that might to bodily damage or at the very least interfere with your magical abilities, it seems completely stable."
He scratches his chin.
"This shouldn't be physically possible."

507921

>>507920
"Like, right now?
Sure!"

507922

>>507920
I scrunch.
"… So now what? I'm not going to like… reach critical mass and explode, am I? I don't want that at all!"

507923

>>507921
She hugs you and holds on to you, trying to drown her worries in a hug '1d10+2'

>>507922
"Let's hope not." He chuckles.

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

507924

>>507923
I…
Pat her softly while she hugs?
'1d10+2'

Roll #1 8 + 2 = 10

507925

>>507923
"What's going to happen then? I don't want to implode either! That's how black holes are formed! That would be really bad!"

507927

>>507924
She starts feeling better.
Do you want to ask the healer more questions or do anything else or shall we consider this doctors visit concluded?

>>507925
"Don't worry, you should be fine. But I would recommend you staying in the encampment for a few days so we can monitor it."

507928

>>507927
I should… Like… Ask him stuff.
But alone.

507929

>>507928
Go ahead.

507930

>>507929
So… Wait for Iris to feel a bit better, or to fall asleep.
Then sneak away and by the doc.

507931

>>507927
"Okay… Thanks, Sober!"

507932

>>507930
The tribulations of the day prove to be a bit too much for her and she quickly falls asleep.
You meet the doc. "Yes?"
You're out of hearing range of Iris.

>>507931
"No problem. Need any directions?"

507933

>>507932
"Uh… are there other initiates I could meet? That'd be great fun, I bet!"

507934

>>507932
Look down, at my hooves, fidgeting with them.
"What if… What if it didn't go away soon?"

507935

>>507933
"The lowest rank paladins here are Sentinels, one rank above Aspirants. You can find them running around camp, they wear a lighter version crystal armor with one black stripe on it."

>>507934
He sighs.
"Listen, in the majority of the cases I've seen or heard of, with her low level of stardust contamination it went away in a few days, a week max. Those fringe cases are really rare."
He scratches his chin.
"But I suppose in the very worst case….where are you heading to if I may ask?"

507936

>>507935
I smile and get back up.
"Alright! Stay chilly!"
Leave the tent and look for these ponies!

Roll #1 9 = 9

507937

>>507935
"Canterlot."
Answer absently, still looking down.

507940

>>507936
You can see them all around. Polishing weapons, carrying around equipment and boxes…

>>507937
"Well, you're in luck then. In the very, very worst case and you end up in Canterlot and it still hasn't reverted, go visit the Academy hospital there. That's the best place to do these kinds of procedures in the whole of Equestria. But, like I said, I'm expecting her to be singing like a nightingale again in a few days, so cheer up and be there for her for a few days."

507943

>>507940
Weapons! What kind of weapons do they have? Shiny ones? Trot over to one of them!

Roll #1 9 = 9

507944

>>507943
Shiny crystal ones.
You approach one of the stallions polishing a crystal mace.
He looks up. "Oh…hello."

507945

>>507940
Nod weakly and look up.
"You sure doc?"

507947

>>507944
"Hi! Nice mace!"

507948

>>507945
"As sure as I can be in these kinds of cases. Just be glad she didn't get hit like your other friend.."

>>507947
"T-thanks." His ears droop as he smiles.
"Y-you new here?"

507949

>>507948
"Oh. You mean Vilina?"
Look around for her.
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

507950

>>507949
She's behind a curtain, sleeping while a medicae investigates her fifth leg.

507951

>>507948
"Yup! Brand new!"

507952

>>507950
Go back to the doc.
"Will she be okay too?"

507959

>>507951
"Great!….uh…l'm uh…Boomer. How nice to meet you!"
He quickly gives you a hoofshake.

>>507952
"Her case is quite worrying, she got a lot more dust absorbed into her body, and not just that…if the mutation is temporary and it disappears the extra leg would…necrotize."

507960

>>507959
Cock my head to a side.
"Necromancer?"

507962

>>507959
"I'm Amber! You're a Sentinel, right?"

507963

>>507959
Wonder around camp seeing what is there to see.

507965

>>507960
"It means that the leg dies again, and just like a corpse it would start rotting….but unlike a corpse it would still be attached to her."

>>507962
"Yes, yes I am!"
He puffs his chest proudly.

>>507963
There are many tents. Younger adult ponies are running around the camp, carrying weapons and boxes everywhere. Some older ponies are inspecting their equipment or practicing their skills in the training range.

507966

>>507965
"So…
Why not cut it off right now?"

507969

>>507965
Perhaps approach one of the smith's.
"Are ponies adept at knowing items with magic?"

507970

>>507965
"That's so great! I really like your crystal armor there. Paladin armor is always so great!"

507971

What did I miss?

507976

>>507966
"We're considering it…but we're still investigating wether or not it's safe enough at this point. We don't want to trigger another mutation…"

>>507969
"I know a thing or 2. What seems to be the problem?"

>>507970
"Haven't you gotten yours yet?"

>>507971
Nothing much.
Faff, faff, faff

507977

>>507976
I was waiting to be lead in front of an important pony I think.

507979

>>507977
I'm waiting on Fidget-kun for that.

507980

>>507976
"Nope! I only just got here with my friends after that whole thing with the ursa!"

507981

>>507976
Wince.
"Okay…"
Leave the doc alone.
I know what I should do.
TO THE BOOK CART!

507985

>>507979
Well, perk my jenny ears and look around.
Do I catch any of the crystal pones staring at me?

507986

>>507976
"Snack have no idea what this is, but friend suspect it has more to it than meets the eye."
Show him the axe

507994

>>507981
It is there where you left it.
Whaddaya need?

>>507980
He grabs his mouth with his hooves, before straightening up again and says
"What happened there?"

>>507986
He overlooks the axe.
"Hmmmmm. Would you allow me to run a few tests with it?"

507995

>>507985
Most of them are too busy too notice you.
A few stop to spare a glance.

507998

>>507994
I gulp as I hand it over.
"Its old axe so careful pony."
Does he look like a sincere fellow? What does my gut tell me?
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

507999

>>507995
Well, try to initiate a conversation with one of them while I wait.
"Crazy day, huh?"

508000

>>507994
"Long story! Basically, a draconequus lured the ursa over to us with a big tree he grew in just a few seconds! We were forced to defend ourselves and had to kill the ursa… the stardust made me really shiny though!"

508010

>>507998
Your gut tells you not to trust him.
He holds out his hoof to accept it.

>>507999
The crystal pony overlooks you.
"You're one of those who slayed the Ursa right?"

>>508000
His mouth falls open. "W-whaaaaaaaaaaat?????"

508012

>>508010
"What? What? Did I say something wrong? We only took that ursa down because we had no other choice!"

508013

>>508010
"No thanks,.Snack thinks he can handle it."
Perhaps go around the camp and see whats happening.

508015

>>508010
"Technically I delivered the finishing blow, yes."

508022

>>508012
"A draconequus? Those are like…legendary!"

>>508013
Ponies are still busy and training. Some ponies are moving out to see the place where the Ursa exploded.

>>508015
"Nice job."

508023

>>508022
"I'm a bit saddened by it. That Ursa didn't have to die."

508025

>>508022
"Well I'm not surprised, when I tried to hit him he just took my hammer away and hit my butt with it!"
Caress my flank with a hoof.
"I'll get him though… he wont get away with what he's done!"

508026

>>508022
While waiting for the meeting, lets go and see these ponies how they practice their skill.
Go and watch them as I ask another spectator.
"What are they ponies practicing for?"

508074

WHATEVER YOU ARE DOING, STONE CALLS YOU OUT. HIGH LADY CROWN IS READY TO SEE YOU

508077

>>508074
Grand. I'm there.

508079

>>508074
Let's go.

508081

>>508074
Just grin at the ponies as I walk out.

508082

>>508081
>>508074
Towards to the high lady tent just to confirm

508084

>>508074
MOVE MOVE MOVE SOLDIER

508091

>>508082
>>508081
They look at you.
Maybe they're planning something evil.
The way they say "okay bye"…..
EVIL.

>>508077
>>508079
>>508084

You all enter the grand tent of the High Lady, before you enter, Clear Ice trots out, looking none too pleased she goes to another tent.

Stone leads you in. The tent of the High Lady is more richly decorated than the others. Behind her hangs a large painting of the crystal palace with the Crystal Heart central to the piece.
She herself sits behind a large desk on which lays a giant map of Equestria. Silver crown is an older crystal mare with a grey coat in a more elaborate armor than the others paladins you've seen. Except maybe Clear Ice's she has a very elaborate armor as well.
Behind Silver stands a giant crystal Greataxe.
Stone salutes her and tells her you're the ones they found at the site.
She calmly overlooks all of you, looking each of you into the eyes for a few seconds.
Finally she says "What is your names?"

508092

>>508091
Salute her.
"Aspirant Amber, my lady!"

508093

>>508091
"Call me Snacks pony." I nod at her.

508094

>>508091
Bow, in my usual circus show-bow manner.
"Mabel, at your service."

508095

>>508091
"I am called Warren, Lady Crown."

508096

>>508092
>>508093
>>508094
>>508095
She nods.
"Tell me your story. Start from the beginning. I want to know how you ended up at that giant tree, killing an Ursa."

508098

>>508096
"Start from the beginning would be a tad too short, but I met the group of these ponies in Tall Tale. Ever since I've been travelling with them.
Recently, we have been through our little troubles of all sorts, when the draconeequs, formerly known to us as the pony Bedrock planted that magical seed. The tree was twisted and not very healthy, but still it yielded fruit. The Ursa was drawn to it, and so when it saw us, as it's animalistic insticnts dictated, attacked us. We had to kill it in self defense. I didn't expect the death of the Ursa would have such a devastating effect on the nearby forest."

508099

>>508096
I'll look to the others, and then back at the Lady.
"By the beginning, do you mean before we joined each others' company, or just from when we had a tree grow up from beneath us?"

508102

>>508099
"As far as is necessary for me to understand what has happened."

>>508098
"You speak of a draconequus. Tell me more about him."

508105

>>508096
"We we're on our way to Canterlot with our group! We heard there were crystal paladins and a ursa causing trouble here, but that's all. One of our… friends we had been traveling with ended up not being who we thought he was. He grew this big tree in just a few seconds time, then the ursa showed up!"

508106

>>508102
"We'eve been told there is ,money to be had on Ursa dust thats why we took job. Snack also thinks paladins need the dust aye?" I

508107

>>508102
"He said he was called Anarchy. He delighted in causing chaos in our group. He also said to be a follower of Discord.
That's the gist of what I know."

508109

>>508102
"He told us his name was Bedrock when we first met him in Silverhaze Falls, but now we know his actual name is Anarchy and that he serves Discord!"

508110

>>508107
"Anarchy…." she nods towards one of the guards who immediately walks out.
"How did you know he was a draconequus?"

>>508105
>>508109
She overlooks her map of Equestria..
"Tall tale….Silverhaze Falls….That is quite a long journey. Why did he join your group?"

>>508106
"Mostly because improperly handled stardust is a danger to nature and ponies, as you may have noticed, we have little monetary interest in the stardust. Were all of you aware of the strict regulations when dealing with Ursas?"

508113

>>508110
"No? IS there a strict regulation?" I then look at Amber confused.

508115

>>508110
"He revealed himself before us."

508116

>>508102
"Well, I suppose I'll start from Tall Tale as well, though I joined the group earlier. We had just finished helping break up the two gangs that had been putting a stranglehold on Tall Tale when Bedrock, who we later discovered to be a Draconequis, convinced us to travel along the road to Canterlot, citing that there would be good money on dealing with the monsters along the way. I was at least under the impression that the Canterlot Railway groups couldn't work so long as the tracks were in a dangerous area. Along the way, we encountered a company of fire elementals that were setting up for a new volcano, but thanks to the efforts of Mabel and Soil, the Fire Lord was convinced to delay and move it."
I'll rub my chin.
"After we came back out of the Fire Realm, we set up camp. Shortly after, the giant tree sprang up from beneath us at an unnatural rate. Then we had to deal with the parasprites that showed up trying to eat the tree… and then the bear showed up. It decided to break into the tree in the spot we happened to be, and combat began from there. After that, well, we found out Bedrock was a draconequis, and that he'd been playing us for saps."

508117

>>508110
"He helped us save Silverhaze from an evil cult that summoned a giant undead dragon with some kind of gatling gun! He asked us if he could join us on our travels, so of course we accepted! We had no idea how it would all turn out back then! But right before he revealed himself, I could feel the evil inside him! A bit late, but there you have it!"

>>508113
I shrug.

508120

>>508117
"We will discuss that feeling later.
How did he behave while you were with him?
Was he a warrior, a painter, what?"

>>508116
She carefully listens and nods.
"So it was this draconequus that made the tree?"

>>508115
"Do you have any idea why? This is important."

>>508113
"There is. Because stardust contaminates an entire region unless the Ursa is properly dealt with. There are heavy penalties for hunting an Ursa without proper authorization."

508122

>>508120
"A merchant and crafter!"

508123

>>508120
"Probably because he wanted to mess with us."

508125

>>508120
"He grew it, at least. Whether or not he made it from nothing, I can't say as I was not with him when he decided to grow it."

508126

>>508123
"It seems weird that he would willingly abandon a convenient cover like that."

>>508122
She nods. "Interesting."

>>508125
"Was there anypony who saw him grow it?"

508127

>>508120
"Well… we didnt know that, Snack thought we got authorization from the pony paladins."

508130

>>508126
"I can't say."
I'll look at the others.
"Was anyone with Bedrock when he grew the tree?"

508131

>>508126
"Very! We tried to fight him after he revealed himself, but… nothing really worked. He just took my hammer like it was nothing and hit me on the flank with it."

>>508130
Shake my head.
"I was with Tulip…"

508132

>>508130
I shrug.
"Snack is with the others when it happen Warren pony."

508134

>>508126
"My phoenix did attack him beforehoof."

508138

>>508127
>>508130
>>508131
>>508132
>>508134
The guard who left returns carrying a heavy old book. He opens it for the High Lady and whispers a few things in her ears.
She studies the book for a good few silent minutes.
She looks up again.
"I believe you"

508140

>>508138
I smile.
"Thank you, my lady!"

508141

>>508138
"Thank you."

508142

>>508138
Bow slightly.

508143

>>508138
I tilt my head.
"In what? In that we are honest hunters. our confession or both?"

508144

>>508143
"That all of you were caught unaware in the machinations of a draconequus and were unaware of the laws regarding Ursa hunting. I hereby pardon your crimes."

>>508140
>>508141
>>508142
"Now, this is extremely important, do any of you carry anything belonging to the draconequus, or did he order anything…unusual. This book mentions Anarchy has a predisposition for selling and handing out extremely potent magical items."

508145

>>508144
"Anything of his? No, no nothing of his."
I look at the others.

508146

>>508144
"I don't!"

508148

>>508144
Present the box.
"This. It is pretty troubling. It has been giving the others nightmares and bad thoughts, but not to me.
It had… other ways to try and get me, however."

508149

>>508144
"errr…" I look through my items.

>>508146
I look at Amber and frown a bit.
"Amber pony, that bear cloak Snack gave you came from Bedrock. And so is Snack." I produce the cloak.

508150

>>508144
"I have nothing of his, though I had hoped to try and get his map of the Laughing One's Labyrinth…"
I'll think a moment.
"He did ask for the brain of the hydra we fought in Tall Tale. He told me he planned on linking it together with four dog brains, and putting it all together on some sort of gun."

508151

>>508149
"Oh… I haven't really used it yet because it's so warm down here in Equestria, but that's right!"

508152

>>508150
"He had a map of the Laughing One's Labyrinth?"

>>508148
She looks at it curiously.
"We will examine it."
A few guards carefully put it in a chest and take it away.

>>508151
>>508149
"Please hoof those over. They will be examined, if there's no taint, these items will be returned to you."

508153

>>508152
"Be cautious with it.
It is… not kind, to say to the least."

508154

>>508152
Give the cloak to the guard.
"Okay!"

508155

>>508152
Hand it over with a frown.

508157

>>508152
I'll nod.
"He lamented that he wasn't welcome there, so he had me run through it to deliver a large crystal to what I can only assume was a shaman, and a crystal pony who had lost his shine."

508158

>>508153
>>508154
>>508155
"Anything else? The smallest detail could be important."

>>508157
"That makes sense, Discord has not been friends with the Laughing One for a long time. Tell me more about this crystal and this crystal pony. All details."

508160

>>508158
"I never really made much contact with him, so nope!"

508161

>>508158
[1d10]

Roll #1 4 = 4

508162

>>508158
Think, do I have any more?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

508163

>>508158
"Err, I've got a cookbook. It's not Anarchy's though."

508164

>>508162
You've given everything you remember.

>>508163
She turns to you.
"A cookbook? Show me…"

508165

>>508164
I show her the cookbook.

508166

>>508165
She looks through it.
"The cookbook of Creme-Fraiche himself….where did you find this?"

508167

>>508158
"It was a fairly large green crystal, roughly this big," I'll hold my hooves apart. "I was supposed to deliver it to… uhm."
I'll think a moment.
"Where was it? Some swamp. Regardless, I went through the labyrinth, and with the assistance of one of the denizens, found the correct path. I then delivered the crystal to the shaman, and asked them what it was for. The shaman told me it was to restore the shine to the crystal pony who was there, who seemed to only have his negative emotions, or none at all."
I'll sigh.
"I'm afraid I can't recall his colors, or his mark."

508168

>>508158
"That's all I know about."

508169

>>508166
"Uhh. It's been a while."

508170

>>508164
"Snack has given what Snack has." I shrug.

508172

>>508167
"Not at all? Unfortunate…who knows what might have happened to that unfortunate pony."

>>508168
She nods.

>>508169
She stares right into your eyes for a little while.
"I see…how unfortunate. But I suppose the important thing is, that it is secure now."

She looks at all of you.
"My host will try to clean up the contamination caused by the Ursa as good as we can. In the meantime, all of you are our guests, you will be assigned a tent and may run freely through the camp.
Any questions?"

508173

>>508170
She nods "Thank you."

508174

>>508172
Can I recall, after puzzling it over? '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

508175

>>508174
Nope, guess not.

508176

>>508174
You cannot.

508177

>>508172
"So…. " I fidget a little while looking at her.
"What happens next? Is Snack and party detained here until further notice?"

508178

>>508172
"So, do I not get to keep it? It's not Anarchy's and I know how to cook."

508179

>>508172
"Uh… Is it true I'm going to be sent back to the crystal empire, my lady? Because that would mean I'd have to leave all my friends behind…"

508180

>>508172
"Do you have any food for a phoenix? I was not prepared in that regard."

508181

>>508178
"But it was written by a close associate of Discord. It will be investigated for heresy. Afterwards it will be returned to you, if you want it back."

>>508179
"We will discuss this privately. I want you to wait when this discussion is over."

>>508180
"Talk to Barking, he's in charge of food supplies. You can find him near the bonfire at the center of the camp."

508182

>>508177
"Consider yourselves our guests…"

508183

>>508181
"Thank you, mam."

508184

>>508181
I scrunch and nod at her.
"Yes, my lady."

508186

>>508182
I smile as I scratch my head.
"Snack is grateful that pony is an understanding one."

I then look at her sternly.
"Can Snack talk with you? Its a matter that may need some addressing."

508187

>>508181
"Keep in mind, Anarchy is a storm in the teacup compared to that dragon problem. He has to be dealt with, but there is another priority at the moment.
As for the information, thank you."

508192

>>508183
She nods.
"You may leave, if you want."

>>508186
"You can talk freely here."

>>508187
"We are aware of the dragon. But keeping track of the few draconequi left in the world is crucial as well. They appear so little, any sighting is significant and must be noted down in books such as these."
She looks over all of you.
"You came from Silverhaze? It seems awfully coincidental there was a draconequus and an Elder Dracolich in the same town….and both reveal themselves so close to each other…"

508194

>>508192
My ears perk up.
"Have you heard anything from Silverhaze, my lady? How are they doing?"

508196

>>508192
"We are in strange times."

508197

>>508192
"Uh, I'll stay here with the others."

508202

>>508192
"I wasn't with them in Silverhaze, mind you. I joined them in Tall Tale…
I… I had a strange vision about not trusting Bedrock, but I'm not sure what that was about."

508206

I'm here I swear!
What are we doing?

508208

>>508194
"A recent report of the Obsidian Knight indicates they're still rebuilding. Last I heard, the Obsidian Knights were helping them out. Communication has been shaky however so I dare not speculate on the current state of the village."

>>508196
She nods.
"This means we have to keep our eyes doubly open."

>>508202
"What kind of vision?"

>>508206
Being interrogated by a Paladin.
But the heavy part is over, this is mostly talk now.

508210

>>508192
I clear my throat and breath deep before speaking.
"Its about Crystal pony race and how vulnerable they are when travelling abroad. You see we have a friend who rescued when she is about to be solved as a slave. Star is her name and she is kidnapped because of her being a Crystal pony."

I rub my fingers looking sideway.
"Diamond dogs find this new pony race something exotic. A livng diamond that is alive is a healthy target so Snack is requesting for the paladins to increase their patrols and have their attention on this." I then nod a bit.

508211

>>508208
"Oh! We met those knights after we left the town! I didn't know they worked together with you guys, that's so great!"

508212

>>508208
I'll nod.
>>508211
"You must have met them while I was in the labyrinth."

508213

>>508208
"It was as if I entered a portal. It was a bit hazy, but I saw the vision of my old friends… except, they only looked like my old friends. It was a masquarade. They warned me against Bedrock."

508214

>>508208
I'm just going to assume that I let my opinion of them be known before.
Also I flip them off. How you do that with hooves I don't know but the sentiment is the same.

508215

>>508210
She seems a bit flabberghasted.
After a few seconds she regains her composure.
"Thank you Snacks, we do our best, but there is only so much territory we can cover. Tell Star however that I would like to speak to her latter.

>>508213
"Seems more trickery of the Laughing One. It is remarkable how much things that many assume to be the things of legends in such a short time…"

>>508214
"Young lady, my patience is running short, if you have nothing constructive to say, you are free to leave."

508216

>>508215
"We'll be leaving right now, eheheh. Sorry."

>>508214
I bop you on the head with magic then drag you out by your tail.

508217

>>508215
"Leave I will then."
I leave and go find Shortcake.

508220

>>508216
>>508217
You're outside.
You've been given a tent in the paladin encampment, if you're interested.

508221

>>508215
"The Laughing One?"

508222

>>508214
Rude!

Keep waiting for the others to leave, I guess.

508223

>>508220
I'll flap my wings a few times and try to hover.
[1d10]

Roll #1 2 = 2

508224

>>508215
"If you need nothing more of me, High Lady, then may I be excused to check on our other traveling companions? They should be with the Medicae."

508225

>>508215
I smile.
"That is good to hear. Snack will tell Star pony right away."

508226

>>508216
>>508220
I shoot her a grin.
"I knew you liked a bit of tail pulling Shorty, but-"

>>508223
"Woah woah woah! You're gonna sprain your wing like that!"
I try to stop her before she hurts herself.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

508227

>>508224
"Of course."

>>508223
Oh boy there you go flying uncontrollably throughout the sky again.
Pegasi make it looks so easy.

>>508225
"Thank you."

508228

>>508226
You manage to stabilize her in the air. You're holding her very close high above in the air.

508229

>>508227
I try to correct myself with Melody's help.
[1d10]

>>508226
"Thanks!"

Roll #1 7 = 7

508230

>>508227
I'll give a small bow.
"Thank you."
And I'll head out of the tent, and look for the medicae tents. Tulip and Vilina should still be there.

508232

>>508230
Tulip isn't here.
Both Iris and Vilina are however.
There are some curtains around Vilina's bed to ensure her mutation isn't too obvious to the passerby. She seems to be sleeping.
There is a medicae overlooking her mutated leg.

>>508229
You're holding hooves high in the air, don't look down too much.

Does Mabel want to say anything more to the High Lady for now?

508234

>>508232
Let's see if I realize the position we are in.
[1d10]

Roll #1 1 = 1

508236

>>508232
Well, that's odd. Let's go look for Tulip.

508237

>>508234
>>508226
"Thanks…"
I give you a quick peck on the cheek. There's no way anyone can see us up here, after all.
"You're a really good flyer, Melody."

508238

>>508232
Not for now.

508241

>>508237
"Eh, comes with being born with wings. You sorta just get… good with 'em. And see! You're already starting to get it too Shorty."
I return the peck and look around. What can I see from up here?

508243

>>508234
>>508237
You look down and see the ground so far, far down.
Your wings instinctively fold down in shock.
You are being carried by Melody now.

>>508236
You find her argueing with one of the paladins.
Apparently she's outraged she'll have to share her tent with the other mares of the party.

>>508241
You're holding Shortcake now, but you can't keep her big butt up indefinately, you better get her to fly again.

>>508238
You leave the tent. Wanna look for food?

>>508222
You are alone with the High Lady.
"Now, Aspirant Amber, Lady Ice told me you have ran away from home…"

508244

>>508229
I nod.
Lets go and fetch Star.

508246

>>508241
I smile when you kiss me back, but then I frown.
"You really need to learn some manners, though. especially when dealing with ponies that could kill us."

>>508243
"EEEK!"
I hug Melody tight!

508247

>>508243
Oh boy. I'll head over.
"What seems to be the trouble?"

508251

>>508243
>>508246
"Hey! Woooah Shorty! Cool it!"
I fly back down to the ground and set her down.
"Maybe that's enough for one day. So what the hell is everyone else doing anyways?"

508252

>>508243
I scrunch.
"That's silly! I left home! As an adult pony, I can make that decision! I don't get why she insists on treating me like a runaway child!"

508256

>>508251
"I'm not sure. They were talking to the paladin mare about Anarchy, but I don't know anything other than that."

508259

>>508243
Let's seek out this food-giving pony, yes.

508262

>>508256
"And the rest? I only saw a few in there."

508265

>>508262
"Uh, I have no idea."

508271

>>508262
"I feel like cooking something."

>>508243
Is there a kitchen tent here?

508272

>>508265
>>508271
"O-… kay? I don't know shit about cooking so uh… have fun?"

508273

>>508272
"I'll teach you, come on."

508275

>>508273
"Waitwha- I- I'm fine! Really Shorty, I'm good!"
I back away.

508278

>>508275
"Aww, but you helped me fly! I need to return the favor."

508279

>>508278
"Maybe later tonight. I'm gonna go see the fuck everyone else is doing here, maybe stir a bit of shit up. Later!"
I fly off and up and look around over the camp.

508280

>>508279
"Have fun!"
I wave goodbye.

508281

>>508244
She's near Tullip and Warren.
Tullip is argueing with one of the paladins about the tent. Star looks angrily at Tullip.

>>508247
Tullip turns to you.
"Warren, these crystal ponies are being mean to me!"
The paladin looks at you.
"Is she with you? Can you explain to her that private tents are not a common thing as she seems to think it is."

>>508251
You see Warren and Tullip argueing with a few paladins near the tent assigned to you.
Star and Snacks are there as well.
You see Mabel walking to the bonfire.
You don't see the others.

>>508252
"I'm sure she's just concerned about a young crystal pony being so far away from the Empire. And if you listened to what Snacks said about crystal ponies being hunted and kept as slaves, can you blame her?"

>>508256
You see the same as Melody.

>>508271
You see Mabel walking to a bonfire, there seems to be an improvised kitchen there.

508282

>>508281
Eh. Fuck it.
I'll go listen in on the conversation with the Paladins.

508283

>>508281
I walked over to them and try to calm them down.
"Whats happening here ponies?"

508284

>>508281
I head over to the kitchen and see what sorts of ingredients are around.
[1d10]

Roll #1 7 = 7

508285

>>508281
I'll rub my forehead a little.
"Tulip, they are simply explaining the situation. Since it would be improper for stallions and mares to share tents, they're asking you to share space with the other mares. And unless we can supply our own tents, we have no real choice in the matter."

508286

>>508281
"I helped free those ponies! There's so much bad stuff going on around here, why should I be sent back home when I could stay here with my friends and help out others who are in trouble? I know how to fight! I know how to use holy magic! And… I know there's a risk involved… which still doesn't mean I should run away from it!"

508287

>>508281
So, what's up with the improv kitchen?

508288

>>508287
"Oh, hi Mable!"

508289

>>508288
Wave.
"Hello Shortcake.
How are you feeling?"

508290

>>508282
The one with Tullip and Warren?
Seems like Tullip is complaining she has to share her tent with others and doesn't get a private tent.

>>508283
Star snorts.
"Tullip is making a scene about having to sleep with others in a tent. What a dramaqueen!"

>>508284
>>508287
Mabel and Shortcake are here.
The kitchen is clearly improvised and large boxes with all kinds of ingredients are stashed everywhere. The head chef is coordinating the several chefs preparing the food a large camp like this requires.
He turns to both of you.
"Well hello there. It's not every day we welcome two fine mares as guests in our camp."

>>508285
She scrunches.
"Look at them. I bet they have lots of tents laying around. "
The paladin rolls his eyes "those are spares, you know, in case one gts ripped apart."
Tullip sticks out her tongue.
"Warren, you have your way with words, explain to them that I am used to higher standard!".

>>508286
She shakes her head.
"I was not planning on sending you back to the Empire at all."

508291

>>508290
"… Oh. Okay then!"

508292

>>508290
"Why not just set up that fancy ass tent Tulip?"

508293

>>508290
"Tulip, do you remember what I told you adventure was like as we were leaving Tall Tale?"

508294

>>508289
I flap my wings a few times.
"Perfect!"

>>508290
I smile at him.
"And I bet its even less often that one who knows how to bake shows p. What can I help with?"

508295

>>508290
Smile.
"Do you feed the troops with flattery?"

508296

>>508294
"Getting used to those already?"
Point at the wings.

508298

>>508296
I nod.
"Yup."

508299

>>508298
I chuckle.
"It's a bit ironic, you know."

508301

508302

>>508292
"It got torn down by that meanie Bedrock!"

>>508291
She gets up.
"But I do find it unfair to your parents that you have left them without any explanation."

>>508293
"YOU NEVER SAID I HAD TO SLEEP WITH OTHER PONIES IN A TENT!"

>>508294
"We've got everything under control here miss. We made some good strong hay stew for the recruits, but if you'd like to try your hoof in our kitchen as well, I'm sure we'd all love it."

>>508295
"Only the pretty ones."

508304

>>508302
"Torn down? I thought it was some magic shit or something that folded up."

508305

>>508302
"I left them a letter! And I wrote them another just recently!"

508306

>>507994
Books about magic dust of big bears and how to fix it quick! With shaman magic!
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

508307

>>508302
"Well, I did say you'd be 'roughing' it. And sharing tents counts as roughing it."
I'll pat Tulip on the back.
"You're a strong mare, I'm sure you'll come out of it none the worse for the wear. Besides, I'm going to be sharing space with Soil and Snacks. Both of whom probably haven't had a bath for weeks."

508310

>>508301
"I do need to get my hooves on a pair of wings. A requirement to visit the Air Elementals."

>>508302
"I hope I am not pretty then, since I'd like to eat something simple, if I could ask. Most of our supplies were lost recently."

508312

>>508290
I chuckle a bit.
"What now? Whats happening?"

508315

>>508302
"Great!"
I start trying to bake a simple cake.
[1d10+2]

>>508310
"Why would you want to visit them?"

Roll #1 2 + 2 = 4

508316

>>508312
"So Star and Tulip pony are getting in trouble already, we have not been in here much you know so keep it down a little you two will you?." I grin.

508317

>>508315
"I'm trying to get familiar with all elemental lords, after my visit to Lord Pyrrus."

508318

>>508317
"Oh. Why?"

508319

>>508318
"I've always loved Nature, but I never thought to try and get on the good side of the elements, not until recently."

508320

508322

>>508320
"Mhm. Lord Pyrrus already helped me."

508323

>>508322
"How?'

508324

>>508304
"I don't know how he did it. But I'll complain to the manufacturer, it's still under guarantee. Once I'm in ponyville I'll demand another!"

>>508305
"Good, good. You might want to write them another as well. To tell them how you've been promoted to Sentinel."

>>508306
You find a book about shamanism. The final part details how shamans have the capacity to extract ailments caused by natural creatures from bodies.

>>508307
"Ah…Where am I going to take a bath?"
She looks towards the paladin.
He replies "there's a river not too far from here we've been using."
Tullip looks at the paladin as if he just grew another set of eyes on his snout.

>>508310
>>508315
"We're almost done with the hay stew for today. But if you and the other lady want to cook something yourselves you're welcome to. As long as we get a little taste~" He chuckles.

Those wings are getting in Shortcakes way and she starts messing up the dough.

>>508312
>>508316
Star looks at you.
"She's doing it, not me!"
She scrunches.

508325

>>508324
This!
IT should work! And Mabel, she said she was a shaman too!
Take the book and rush out of the tent, go find her.

508326

>>508323
"The fight against the Ursa… it's hard to describe how I felt, but it was as if like he guided me."
Chuckle.
"Of course he sent Inferni too."

>>508324
"I can wait."
Smile and extend my hoof, bending it to create the usual perch and wait for Inferni to land.
"My friend here might need something else to eat though."

508327

>>508324
"Oh I will- Wait what? You… R-Really? A promotion!?"
My eyes go wide like saucers.

508328

>>508324
I'll give a small chuckle.
"You'll be able to get hot water with the help of a small fire or a mage skilled with it. Soap is another matter."

508330

>>508324
I stop talking to Mabel and focus on what I am doing.
[1d10+2]

Roll #1 8 + 2 = 10

508332

>>508325
You find her with Shortcake, baking cakes.

>>508326
Inferni lands upon it.
"Now that's one fine looking bird you've got there. I think we got a few pieces of meat left in a box from that time we had a few dogs here. Let me get that."
He throws Inferni a small steak who immediately starts eating from it.

>>508327
"This promotion does come with a new set of responsibilities however."

>>508328
"B-but everypony will be looking at me!"

>>508330
You make a bloody great cake.

508334

>>508332
Chuckle.
"He doesn't like being called a bird, but it seems that he appreciates the meat."

508335

>>508332
"Perfect! Boys, the cake is ready!"

508336

>>508332
I bounce up and down in excitement, giggling all the while.
"Yes! Yes! Yes! Tell me!"

508337

>>508334
Wave at her from the door, beckoning her over here in a hurry.

508338

>>508324
"So… why not just sleep in a regular tent for a night?"

508339

>>508324
"Eh… my bad." I smile.

>>508332
>>508328
I look at Tulip then to Warren and the guard
"Is there a way to set Tulip up so she will feel safe? Snack means she wont get upset like this if there is something that can be done."

508341

>>508337
"Excuse me."
Let Inferni jump on my back and walk over to Soil.
"Is something the matter?"

508342

>>508332
"Just the mares, and it's nothing they haven't seen before. You'll be fine."
>>508339
I'll shrug.

508343

>>508341
Raise the book and point at it.
"There's a way to fix Iris and Vilina quick!"

508344

>>508343
Take the book and look over it.
"What is this? Who gave it to you?2

508345

>>508344
"It was in my pile of books, duh!"

508346

>>508334
"Seems like he does. Where did you find a fine bird like that?"

>>508336
"Please calm down, paladin."

>>508338
She scrunches.
"I don't like that. Ponies snoring, making sounds…I don't like it."

>>508335
The few crystal chefs like their lips seeing it.
"Magnifique."
"Smells delicious."
"You should teach us how to make one of those."

>>50833

>>508342
"I..I want earplugs and a beauty mask to go to sleep. Then I'll be happy."
She scrunches.

508347

>>508346
"So… stuff your ears with cotton then."

508348

>>508346
Stop bouncing and look at her excitedly.

508349

>>508345
Smile.
"Clever."

>>508346
"Oh, he found me, not the other way."
Let's give the book Soil gave me a look.

508350

>>508346
"Well, it's simple. All you've got to do is…"
And I teach them as I make another cake.
[1d10+2]

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

508351

>>508346
"I think that can be arranged."
I'll look at the guard.
"Is there any scrap cotton that can be used as earplugs?"

508352

>>508349
"Since we are both shamans, I thought we could fix this!"
Smile proudly.

508354

>>508342
>>508346
I then shrug then and let Warren handle Tulip. I then turn to Star.
"Warren will take care of Tulip, Star doesnt need to worry."
I then look down a bit.
"The head of the camp however needs to talk to Star a bit, if she likes that is."

508355

>>508352
Smile even wider.
"Good thinking. Do you know any place where herbs grow nearby?"

508357

>>508355
"Uhh…
We can ask Snack to help us look!"

508358

>>508348
"Do you have any idea why I'm not transferring you to the Crystal Empire?"

>>508347
>>508351
The paladin overlooks all of you and then sighs.
"Fine, I'll see if I can get something, but…"
He narrows his eyes at Tullip.
"One more of those outburst and you're sleeping on the ground, lady."
Tullip sticks out her tongue again as he leaves.

>>508350
"Wow, you make it look so easy!"
"Where did you learn it?"
"I've never seen anypony handle those spatels like you do."

>>508349
The passage Soil refers to details a way advanced shamans used to extract impurities caused by natural phenomena from the body.
It requires some herbs but also a ritual requiring meditation and willpower.

508359

>>508354
She perks up her ears.
"The head wants to speak to me??
Why?"

508360

>>508358
"It's just what I'm good at."
I show off my cutiemark.

508361

>>508358
Slowly shake my head, looking serious now.

508363

>>508358
"You shouldn't antagonize them, Tulip. They're only doing their duty, and they don't have the supplies most towns do."

508368

>>508358
Point at the book.
"I don't think the herbs and willpower will be a problem, but…"
Give Soil a look.
"Do you think you can meditate properly? For the sake of your friends?"

508370

>>508368
"It's just like sleeping, no?"

508372

>>508363
"They have a whole crystal empire full of shiny jewels and they can't afford a few extra tents? Please, they're obviously just hiding them."

>>508360
They take a look at you big butt mark.
"I can see it fits you."

>>508361
"There have been a remarkable set of coincidences involving your group. Contact with a draconequus, a Dracolich, excursions into the Laughing Labyrinth…."
She looks at the painting of the Crystal Heart for a second.
"This seems all a bit too much to be all a coincidence, there are other forces at work here. Great forces. And I believe you will yet have a part to play in that….hopefully as Cadances agent."
She gets up.
"I am not sure why, but after what your friends told me, I'm more convinced than ever that your path is with them…wherever it leads. Princess Cadance, may She bless us all, wants you on this path and thus we must bow to Her wishes."

508373

>>508370
"Not exaclty.
You need to be able to focus."
Grow more serious in tone.
"This is very important Soil. You might accidentally hurt your friends. Even I might, if I mess it up."

508376

>>508372
"Thanks!"

508378

>>508373
Frown.
"Hey. I'm ready to do anything for them!"

508379

>>508372
Look at her in amazement.
"Really? Wow… I… I wont disappoint, I promise!"

508381

>>508358
"So are you giving all of us individual tents or just her?"

508385

>>508372
"The crystal empire also recently escaped complete enslavement, and I think they use it as building material. That's like asking someone to use a piece of their home to pay for things."

508386

>>508378
"I know you are. I'm not questioning your drive or willpower but can you focus?"

508389

>>508359
I scratch my head.
"They want inputs on how to make the road more safe."

I then fidget a little.
"Snack told them of your troubles in the past… Snack is just worried and anxious."

508391

>>508386
"Hey how hard can it be, right?"

508392

>>508391
"Sit down and close your eyes."

508393

>>508392
Groan.
"Why?"

508396

>>508393
"I want to help you. I want to see how hard can you concentrate.
How well can you meditate and ignore the outside world, only allowing your inner world to be in front of you."

508399

>>508379
She sits back down.
"I know you won't. But let's not lose our focus here and take this one step at a time.
Now there is a specific duty related to your rank. As you know, all paladins of the Crystal Heart fight in pairs. These 2 ponies share a bond forged in friendship or perhaps even love. You must now find a Sentinel to take as your partner in battle. You will learn from each other, fight with each other and live with each other, so be sure to choose well."

>>508385
She scrunches angrily.
"That's because of Equestria, if it wasn't for us, they'd still be enslaved. And now they won't even give my own place to sleep."

>>508389
"Y-you told them?"

>>508381
The paladin shouts.
"None of you are getting individual tents, she's getting earplugs but that's all. And if I hear another thing about individual tents, that pony is scrubbing the plates tonight."

>>508376
One of the younger crystal ponae comes sit next to you.
"You know, I bet we could teach each other a lot about cooking~"

508400

>>508396
Sit down and close my eyes.
"Is this good enough?"

508401

>>508399
"Okay, okay, fine ya fuckin' hardass…"
I mumble and go off to do something else. Hmm.
What's interesting around here?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

508402

>>508399
"But they are at least letting you in. Look on the bright side of things, Tulip. You could be sleeping under a tree, unprotected from nature and whatever creatures decide you look tasty."

508403

>>508399
"Really? What is your specialty? I do cakes and pastries."
What sort of crystal pone?

508404

>>508399
"Oh… right! A paladin partner! Wow! I will heed your words, my lady!"

508406

>>508400
"Take deep breaths. Do not open your eyes until I say so. Think about wanting to help Iris. Focus on that thought. Cling to it and don't let it go."

508409

>>508406
Deep Breaths.
'1d10'
Keep my eyes closed.
'1d10'
Think about Iris.
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8 / Roll #2 5 = 5 / Roll #3 3 = 3

508410

>>508399
I nod.
"Its all so that the roads can be safe for future crystal ponies."

508412

>>508404
"Good. Every morning we wake up early to gather in the middle of the camp to take a moment to praise the Savior. I expect you there every morning. You are free to walk around the camp.
Any more questions?"

>>508403
He's a stallion
Looks '1d10'
Voice '1d10'
Swag '1d10'

>>508401
It's a paladin encampment, they're all busy praying to their gods probably.
You see Shortcake and a stallion is talking to her. She definately caught his interest.

>>508402
Grumble grumble, grumble.
But she's not complaining anymore as the paladin brings her some cotton.

Roll #1 4 = 4 / Roll #2 8 = 8 / Roll #3 3 = 3

508415

>>508409
"Keep them closed, Soil."

508416

>>508412
Shake my head.
"Not right now, my lady! I've taken enough of your time!"
Salute her.

508417

>>508412
I frown and watch, waiting to see if he's gonna try any shit.

508419

>>508415
Fick an ear and keep my eyes shut.

508421

>>508412
Good girl.
"I did warn you adventure wouldn't be fun all the time."
Now, let's go check in on Vilina. See if she's doing any better.

508422

>>508412
So he's awkward looking and acting, but has a nice voice?
I smile at him.
"Well? What do you cook?"

508423

>>508419
"Good.
Keep focusing."
Start walking around him.
Occasionally click my tongue.

508425

>>508423
Keep… Focused?
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

508426

>>508416
She salutes you as well.

>>508422
Yes.
"I'm in charge of cutting the vegetables."
He makes a cutting movement with his hoof very fast.
"tchaktchaktchaktchaktchaktchaktchaktchak"

>>508421
She's in the bed still and still sleeping.
The medicae next to you tells you she's been given a sedative to help her rest for now.

>>508417
He's thinking he's pretty smooth

PAUSE

508427

>>508425
Smile.
Time to really test him.
"Oh, wow, what is Indy doing? I've never seen him do anything like that! You wouldn't want to miss this!"

508428

>>508426
"Ooh. That's impressive."

508429

>>508427
Well, number one, did I hear that or have I fallen asleep?
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

508430

>>508429
Nope, sleeping.

508432

>>508426
Leave her tent!
Try not to squee as I step outside.
Promoted… I can't believe it! Hahaaaa!

Roll #1 6 = 6

508433

>>508429
>>508430
"Good, very good Soil!"
Do I notice he is asleep?
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

508434

>>508433
Frown.
Poke his shoulder.

508435

>>508434
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

508437

>>508434
>>508435
Fall over and snore loudly.

508440

>>508437
>>508435
Facehoof.
"Oh for…"
Let's get a blanket to cover him up.

508443

508446

>>508440
Spring up, rubbing my face.
"W-wa-
I'm awake!"

508449

>>508446
"You were snoring, Soil."

508450

>>508449
"That means I was focused, right?"

508452

>>508450
"It means the opposite."

508454

>>508452
Scrunch.

508458

>>508454
Put a hoof on on your shoulder.
"Listen, I know this is hard for you, but you have to understand. I'm not asking you to try and meditate better to make you feel bad. I do it so you can help Iris. Don't you want to do that?"

508459

>>508458
"Well yeah!"

508462

>>508459
"Then work with me! If you fell asleep, you didn't concentrate on the idea of wanting to help Iris enough!"

508464

>>508462
"But what does any of this have to do with it?"

508469

>>508464
"The book you gave me. From what I read it's not as easy as brewing tea from herbs or something. It will require great willpower and focus."

508470

>>508469
"This stuff is strange."

508473

>>508470
Smile.
"I never said I am not strange, did I?"

508475

>>508473
"But being a shaman has been easy until now! Like, I just sleep under a tree, eat a few apples, talk with Indy and stuff!
There was never to medididgitate!"

508476

>>508475
"Did you cure people though? Help others?"

508479

>>508476
"We helped lots in Silverhaze! And in Tall Tale! And with the fire ponies!"

508482

>>508479
"I know I know, I meant…"
Hoof along the grass.
"I can make medicine out of what nature provides, and it can help ponies a lot. Sometimes it can even close wounds and such, but I have to focus.
If I mess something up, the medicine might do the opposite of what I want, like cause even more bleeding.
You found this book which was very clever and perceptive of you, but if you want to help Iris with it, you need to learn how to meditate. Do you understand now?"

508484

>>508482
Sigh.
"But I don't get what meditate means…"

508492

>>508484
"It's about… it's relaxing the 'thinking' part of your mind to get to a deeper awareness. To calm down your train of thought and clearly see an answer to a problem or simply be alone, ignoring the outside world."

508504

>>508492
"So… Sleeping."

508505

>>508504
"When you sleep, you dream.
When you meditate, you are awake… It's hard to explain. Just try it and you'll get the hang of it."

508511

>>508505
"Oh, fine."
Grumble and close my eyes again.
"So… Ignore everything?"

508512

>>508511
Sit down opposite of you.
"Yes. Ignore the outside world, the sounds, the smells.
Find a thought of you wanting to help Iris and cling to it. Don't think about anything else. Just focus on that."

508514

>>508512
"Whatever happens?"

508515

>>508514
"Whatever happens."

508519

>>508515
Focus.

Roll #1 2 = 2

508520

>>508519
"You're not sleeping again, are you?"

508522

>>508520
"Not with this fly buzzing around my ears I'm not!"

508523

>>508522
"Ignore it! Ignore the outside! Focus on that single thought!"

508525

>>508523
Groan and try again…
Think about… Iris and the nuzzling we will do once this is over.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

508531

>>508525
"You don't seem very focused."

508532

>>508531
"It's hard!
I keep thinking about her smooches!"

508533

>>508532
I giggle.
"That's adorable, but see, this is the hard part. You are getting closer though, I can feel it. Focus on helping her!"

508534

>>508533
Groan and try again.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

508535

>>508534
Wait patiently.

508536

>>508535
Open an eye to peek out.

508537

>>508536
Tilt my head.
"Yes?"

508538

>>508537
"Am I there yet?"

508539

>>508538
"Doesn't seem like it. Don't stress about it!
Just close your eyes, relax, let go of everything else and concentrate!"

508540

>>508539
Grumble and repeat.
I wonder where the grass is tastier around here…
'1d10-1'

Roll #1 9 - 1 = 8

508541

>>508540
Wait patiently again.
Maybe he actually got it this time?

508542

>>508541
Mhmmh…
Grass…
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

508543

>>508542
Guess I'm drooling a bit.

508544

>>508542
>>508543
Sigh.
"They say the hay stew will be ready soon…"

508546

>>508544
Wait.
Me:Brain, it's time to make one decision now.
Here, have a sit beside stomach.
Do we open our eyes and go for the hay stew or stay here and try to help Iris?

Stomach:You are not gonna help Iris by sitting on your ass all day!
Brain:Why do I even bother, you never listen to me anyway.
Me:Hey it's about Iris! I did listen to you that one time in the cave!
Pants:No, that was me!
Me:Oh.
Brain:Look, if you really like her, you go through with this an…
…
She'd be so angy if you didn't wait for her to eat!

Stomach:So just wake her up!
Brain:That's not how you treat a lady!
Pants:Yeah, that'd not be groovy at all!
Brain:Nobody invited you!

Wince in concentration, sweat dripping from my brow.

508547

>>508546
He might be onto something.
Brush my mane out of my eyes and keep watching and listening patiently.

508548

>>508547
Me:JUST STOP SHOUTING OKAY?

Stomach:It's for her good big boy! You have to be strong to save her!
Brain:But this is not some horrible beast or a monster or something!
It's about that freaky magic you always talk about.
Oh and you do realize you do it yourself too, right?

Me:Lalalalalala I'm not listening!
Magic Gland:This story again, Brain?
Brain:Bah. The point is, you don't do like the sword-swallower says, Iris is toast.
Peace, out.

[Sound of Someone Sitting in an Empty Room]
Me:Maybe Brain is right…
Stomach:If you do this, I'm gonna hurt so bad you won't be able to eat hay fr a week!
Me:But it's for Iris…

Back to reality, keep my eyes shut, start breathing more and more slowly, relax my expression.

508549

>>508548
Grin.
Yes!
Yes, he's doing it!
I knew he could!

508550

>>508549
Remain like this for '1d100' minutes.

Roll #1 38 = 38

508551

>>508550
Close my eyes and meditate in the meantime myself.

508552

>>508551
Stand up and look at her do for a while.

508553

>>508552
Sitting in a comfortable position, eyes closed, a small smile, long donkey ears flopped down…

I probably don't notice you standing up though.

508554

>>508553
"I'm going to eat something."
Stand up and go for the campfire.

508555

>>508554
Perk one ear, then open my eyes, standing up and following.
"Oh, sorry.
So, did you manage to do it? How was it?"

508556

>>508555
"Noisy for a while.
Then it got real quiet. Reaaaal quiet."

508557

>>508556
Smile.
"Good, very good!
You were alone with your thoughts, right?"

508558

>>508557
"Kinda…"

508559

>>508558
"So did it work? Did you feel calm and clear minded?"

508560

>>508559
Shrug.
"It was like not thinking about things.
Like always."

508561

>>508560
"I think you did it, since you didn't fall asleep."
Smile.
"Good job, Soil. I'm very proud of you."

508562

>>508561
Smile a bit.
"Thanks."

508563

Find Warren!

508564

>>508563
I'm not hard to find. Currently outside the Medicae tent.

508565

>>508564
"WARREN!"
I sprint towards you at a madmare's pace.

508566

>>508565
I'll involuntarily jump slightly.
"Amber, what's the matter?"

508567

>>508566
Come to a full stop right in front of you [1d10]

Roll #1 4 = 4

508568

>>508567
Or just bump into you, that works too!
"I did it!"

508569

>>508567
>>508568
Oof. And she's shining brighter than ever.
"Did what?"

508570

>>508569
"They promoted me! I'm a sentinel now!"

508571

>>508570
"Congratulations!"
I'll smile.
"What does that mean, though? New duties?"

508572

>>508571
"It means I got promoted from Aspirant to Sentinel! I'll get to wear shiny crystal armor and pick a paladin partner to work together with! And I wont even get sent back home like that mean lady wanted to do!"

508573

>>508572
"That's impressive. So, who are you going to pair up with?"

508574

>>508573
"… I have no idea!"

508575

>>508574
"Do you know if you'll be assigned a partner, or do you get to pick?"
I'll think a moment.
"If you get to choose, are you going to pick a mare or stallion partner? I'm not sure how paladins of Cadence work."

508576

>>508575
"I get to pick! Of course, the others get to pick too! Paladin partners share close bonds with each other, sometimes even of actual romantic love!"

508577

>>508576
"Well, then, I hope you choose wisely. You might end up picking your future husband."
I'll rub my chin.
"Or wife, it it ends up like that."

508578

>>508577
Stick out my tongue.
"Ew, I don't want to kiss another mare!"

508579

>>508578
"Well, stranger things have happened. And you should be too disgusted with the idea. If you end up picking a mare for a partner, they might not find the idea so weird."
I'll chuckle.

508580

>>508579
I scrunch.
"We'll see about that! We're here for a few days, so I have the time to choose wisely! I hope they wont be too put off by my maturity, some ponies are really intimidated by that!"

508581

>>508580
"Just remember that these ponies have been training for longer than you have, even if they haven't fought hydras and demons and all sorts of other things."
I'll pat you on the back.
"A good partnership thrives on mutual respect for talents that both bring to the table. Especially if your partner can do things that you can't."

508582

>>508581
"I knooooow."

508583

>>508582
"Good. Now, since everyone's off doing their own things, we should probably get something to eat. Sharing a meal makes food taste better, after all."

508584

>>508583
"Totally! This is really good news though, because I should be able to keep travelling with you guys! I'd be so sad if we had to split up!"

508585

>>508584
"I was a bit worried about that as well. I hope your partner doesn't mind traveling with monster hunters."

508586

>>508585
"Yeah! I'm sure it'll be fine though, we're a nice bunch! And with a partner, we'll no doubt be able to take on Anarchy and that dragon!"

508587

>>508586
"Well, we'll need something a bit heavier than what we have to take out Anarchy. It took both princesses to bring down one draconequis, after all."

508588

>>508587
"Right… My book said the elements of harmony could do it! And the crystal heart too!"

508589

>>508588
"I've never heard of the first ones, but the second is in the Crystal Empire, isn't it? We can't really borrow that."

508590

>>508589
"No, we can't… they need it up there!"

508591

>>508590
"Well, we might be able to make something… We do still have that jar of Stardust, after all."

508592

>>508591
"I have a bag of it too!"

508593

>>508592
"Great. We'll still need to find a weaponsmith capable of working with it. Perhaps in Canterlot, or the Empire itself."

508594

>>508593
"Oooooh! You guys want to travel to the empire? That's a fantastic idea! I could introduce you all to my family! I was going to write another letter to them today anyway!"

508595

>>508594
"All of us might be a bit overwhelming. But, after we arrive at Canterlot, we should be able to head up that way."

508596

>>508595
"It'll be fine! You'll get to meet mom, dad, my little brother, my sisters, my aunties, grannies and grampas… it'll be so much fun!"

508597

>>508596
"I'm sure it will be fun."
Time for food.

508598

>>508597
"Yes it will be! Tons of fun! The best kind of fun!"

508599

>>508598
"We have to get there, first. I'm sure everyone else will look forward to this as well."
I'll chuckle a little.
"Snacks will probably be half-blinded by the place, and I'm sure Star would like going home as well."

508600

>>508599
"I'll be able to show you guys my home and stuff too! And we'll get to see where Star lived! Maybe she lived really close to where I lived!"

508601

>>508600
"I've never been to the Empire, so is there anything we should know before going?"

508602

>>508601
"There are a lot of crystal ponies! And shiny buildings and roads! And crystals! And cute little pastel sheep!"

508603

>>508602
"It sounds like we'll have a very busy stay."

508604

>>508603
"Veeeery busy! When I was a filly, things were always busy too! Especially after Cadance came and we got unfrozen out of time!"

508605

>>508604
I'll chuckle a little.
"Then we'll be relying on you as our guide."

508606

>>508605
Boop his nose.
"You bet! Although Star would probably know a lot too, she's the oldest one!"

508607

>>508606
Scrunch a little at the booping.
"Well, she's not much older than you, but I'm sure she'll have her own take on things."
I'll ponder a moment.
"Though, we should probably tell the others about this. Give them time to prepare, and something to hope and plan for."

508608

>>508607
"We'll need to go to Canterlot first though… to talk with the archmage about the giant undead dragon and stuff!"

508609

>>508608
"Exactly."

508610

>>508609
"I've never been to Canterlot, so that's exciting too! Have you?"

508611

>>508610
I'll shake my head.
"This would be my first visit there."

508612

>>508611
"Hmmm… you think Tulip has been there? She's a high class pony after all! Maybe she can act as a guide!"

508613

>>508612
"Maybe, maybe. We'll have to ask."
I'll roll my eyes a little.
"That is, if she survives the trip and doesn't drive everyone else up the wall about having to share tentspace."

508614

>>508613
"Huh?"

508615

>>508614
"Let's just say that she wasn't exactly enthusiastic about sharing the tent with you, Mabel, Star, and the others. We managed to talk her down into settling for ear plugs and a eyemask."
I'll shake my head.
"The paladin quartermaster here was likely this close to throwing her out of the camp."

508616

>>508615
"Oh…"
I bite my lower lip.
"She's just a little… finicky. She's not used to all this, I realized that after we had that little…. incident."

508617

>>508616
"I know. But I did warn her that it wasn't going to be fun all the time. She'll be fine, though. Eventually."

508618

>>508617
I nod.
"Sure she will be! We all learn things along the way!"

508619

>>508618
"Don't I know it."
I'll shake my head.
"When I left home, I had no idea I'd need to learn how to work together with so many ponies. Or that I'd be fighting giant space bears or elder beasts of chaos."

508620

>>508619
"Wait… where are you even from?"

508621

>>508620
"A small, nameless town out in the middle of nowhere. I left because I was, well, to put it in so many words I was bored."

508622

>>508621
"Bored? Where did you learn magic and stuff? You have a really weird fighting style!"

508623

>>508622
"I learned magic mostly from books. The sneaking… mostly self-taught. Not being seen sometimes had its benefits when a particularly delicious pie was sitting on a windowsill."

508624

>>508623
I giggle.
"I never was any good at sneaking! I got caught all the time!"

508625

>>508624
"Well, I'd assume that sparkling whenever you were succeeding wouldn't really keep you hidden."
I'll chuckle.

508626

>>508625
"Yeah… it's not always easy being shiny!"

508627

>>508626
"But at least getting caught all those times led you to this. Just imagine how different life could be if you actually got away with being sneaky."

508628

>>508627
"That's true! Maybe I'd be like… some kind of expert spy or something!"

508629

>>508628
I'll smile.
"Or something. But I think I prefer Amber the paladin to Amber the master spy."

508630

>>508629
"I don't blame you! I'd be a real menace!"

508631

>>508630
"Perhaps, but you might not have ever met the rest of us. Better the friend we know, right?"

508632

>>508631
"Yeah, I'm happy to be like this!"

508633

>>508632
"Mmhm."

508634

>>508633
"Let's eat then! I got so much stuff to do today!"

509077

Now find Mabel!

509078

>>509077
I probably just finished eating after the meditation with Soil.

509079

>>509078
"Mabel!"

509080

>>509079
Perk my ears and look at where the sound came from.
"Amber?"

509081

>>509080
Gallop over to her and try to stop in time.

Roll #1 7 = 7

509082

>>509081
Looks like I skid to a halt in front of you!
"Guess what!?"

509083

>>509081
Raise an eyebrow.
"Is everything allright?"

509084

>>509082
"What?"

509085

>>509083
"Very alright!"

>>509084
"Guess!"

509086

>>509085
Smirk.
"Hmmm, let's see… you got a job as a nightlight?"

509087

>>509086
"A what? No! I got promoted! And I'm not being sent home!"

509088

>>509087
The smirk is replaced with a genuine smile.
"That's great news Amber!"

509089

>>509088
I give her a huge grin as well.
"It is! It is! I'm a Sentinel now!"

509090

>>509089
"Bring me up to speed, what exaclty do they do?"

509091

>>509090
"They're a rank above paladin aspirants! It means I get crystal armor of my own and that I need to pick a partner!"

509092

>>509091
"Crystal armor? That sounds really nice."
Chuckle a bit.
"You will have a partner? Will your partner come with us?"

509093

>>509092
"It does sound nice! Crystal armor is very pretty!"
I clop my two hooves together excitedly.
"I will find a partner to work together with, yeah!"

509094

>>509093
"A crystal stallion if I had to guess?"

509095

>>509094
"It doesn't matter! But some paladin duos do become actual couples!"

509096

>>509095
Chuckle again.
"I can see why you are so excited about this promotion then."

509097

>>509096
"Because it's so exciting!"

509098

>>509097
"You deserved it, Amber."
Smile.
"It's good to see you being so enthusiastic about it."

509099

>>509098
"This is a dream coming true, Mabel! Of course I'm enthusiastic! I'm an actual paladin now!"

509100

>>509099
Ruffle her mane.
"To me, you always were."
Chuckle.
"You're not going to stop at this rank though, will you?"

509101

>>509100
I scrunch as she ruffles my mane.
"Of course not! I'm going for it!"

509102

>>509101
Keep chuckling and ruffle it a bit more.
"If you have any ceremony about it, make sure to invite me!"

509103

>>509102
Back off a little to get away from the ruffling.
"I will! … I don't think there is one though! But if there was, I would invite you!"

509104

>>509103
Click with my tongue.
"Tough luck for me… I guess I will have to wait for your wedding."

509105

>>509104
"My wedding? I don't have anything planned for a wedding!"

509106

>>509105
"Not yet."

509107

>>509106
"It's a little premature!"

509108

>>509107
"I'm not talking about right now, silly."
Chuckle.
"I'm just saying that you will have one eventually, won't you?"

509109

>>509108
"… I guess! Seems a little weird though… and I'd have to ask my parents too I think."

509110

Come back from the cooking pot, a sour expression on my face.
>>509108
>>509109
But then widen my eyes and rush to Amber.
"Are they sending you back to your parents?!"

509111

>>509109
Chuckle again.
"Don't you want to be a good little wife, Amber?"

509112

>>509110
"What? No! I got promoted and get to pick a paladin partner and wear crystal armor!"


>>509111
I stick out my tongue at her.

509113

>>509112
"Pro… What?"

509114

>>509113
"A promotion.
She advanced in ranks."

509115

>>509114
"But can't only guards do that?"

509116

>>509115
"Don't be silly! Of course not!"

509117

>>509116
"What's… What's the point?"

509118

>>509117
"What do you mean?"

509119

>>509117
"It's a good thing!"

509120

>>509118
"What's the point of a promotion?
What is it like?"
>>509119
"Good like, food good? Or slamming real hard good?"

509121

>>509120
"It's just a recognition of skill and experience! The next step up the ladder!"

509122

>>509121
Start circling Amber.
"You carry a ladder? I never saw it!"

509123

>>509120
"Like achieving things in life good."

509124

>>509123
"Oh. Help me look for the ladder!"

509125

>>509122
"Not a real ladder!"

509126

>>509125
Sit down.
"Well this is silly then. I don't get what's the fuss all about!"

509127

>>509126
I shrug.
"Fine."

509128

>>509124
"It's not a real ladder, Soil."

509129

>>509127
>>509128
"What's to be so excited about then?"

509130

>>509129
"I get to stick with you guys, call myself a paladin, pick a partner and wear crystal armor, duh!"

509131

>>509130
"You could have said that before!"
Smile and go congratulate with her using a powerful pat on the back.
'1d10'
"It's gonna be great now!"

Roll #1 9 = 9

509132

>>509131
I'm wearing armor! That doesn't faze me!
"… I did. Just a minute ago!"

509133

>>509132
>>509131
Chuckle at them.

509134

>>509132
"I just remember lots of noise and the word promotion.
I focused real hard on that because it's a word I don't read often!"

509135

>>509134
"Well you know what it's about now! I'm a sentinel now!"

509136

>>509135
Stomp my hooves on the ground with a smile to cheer for her.

509137

>>509135
"When will you pick that partner by the way?"

509138

>>509137
"… Sometime soon! We're staying here a few days! The other pony needs to pick me as well, you know!"

509139

>>509138
"Oh… We're staying here?"
Look up to the sky.
"Maybe we can fix them in t-"
Widen my eyes and look at Amber.
"Partner?"

509140

>>509139
"Yes! Crystal paladins work in pairs!"

509141

>>509140
"Sweet! More ponies to hunt with!"
Smirk in glee.

509142

>>509138
"So you have to pick each other then?"

509143

509144

>>509143
"They would be stupid to say no!"

509145

>>509144
"Well… it's their choice! An important choice for us both!"

509146

>>509145
"Not like there's that many ponies here…"

509147

>>509145
"He meant who could say no to adorable little Amber."

509148

>>509147
"I meant who could say no to hunting beasts and travelling with us!"

509149

>>509146
"What do you mean? It's swarming!"

>>509147
I scrunch.
"I'm not little! I'm a fierce paladin now!"

509150

>>509148
"That too."

>>509149
"You'll always be Lil' Amber for me."
Chuckle.

509151

>>509150
"Everypony tells Amber that…
But she's like, pretty freaking strong for a little mare!"

509152

>>509150
"Hey! I'm big Amber!"

509153

>>509151
>>509152
Shrug with a smile.
"I'm the oldest of us three. The wisest too. Which means I must be right, right?"

509154

>>509153
"That's not how it works!"

509155

>>509153
"You can keep your right, I have my books."

509156

>>509155
"What if I write a book about being right?"

>>509154
"Isn't it?"

509157

>>509156
"Well then I won't read it!"

509158

>>509156
"It's not!"

509159

>>509158
"How does it work then."

>>509157
Pout.
"What if it had adventures and slamming in it?"

509160

>>509159
"We're both adults with equal opinions!"

509161

>>509159
"I'd just read those parts!"

509162

>>509161
"What if me being right was hidden within those parts?"

>>509160
"My opinion is that it's how it works."

509163

>>509162
Think hard for a second…
"Okay, I'm not gonna read anything you write then!"
It'd probably fly right over his head.

509164

>>509163
Chuckle.
"I always liked telling stories better anyway."

509165

>>509162
"You're a big dummy, Mabel!"

509166

>>509164
"You would try and sneak those in there too!"

509167

>>509166
"So you will never listen to my stories from now on?"

>>509165
Pout again.
"Your words hurt me, Amber."

509168

>>509167
"Yours do too!"

509169

>>509167
"Well if you have to be so sneaky sneaky about it!"
Pout.

509170

>>509168
"I said you are little affectionately!"

>>509169
"I can't help it, I like to be sneaky sneaky sometimes! Like- hey look over there what's that?!"
Point behind him.
Then Stealth.
'1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

509171

>>509170
Turn around quick!
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

509172

>>509171
>>509170
Looks like I turned around so slowly, I missed that total failure of a stealth attempt.
"Where the heck is Mabel now?"

509173

>>509170
"Well… don't do that!"

509174

>>509173
I'm busy hiding!
Sort of.

>>509172
Circle around and stand behind Soil.

509175

>>509174
You know Indy is on my back, right?
He's probably giving you a hard costanza face.
I'm looking ahead though.

509176

>>509175
Smirk at Indy then.
Start playing with my mane.

509177

>>509176
Okay, turn around.
"Maybe she went back to eat something!"
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

509178

>>509177
Smile at you.
"Hey."

509179

>>509178
Frown.
"Where the hack were you gone?"

509180

>>509179
"I felt the urge to be sneaky sneaky.
See, I can't control it!"
Smirk.

509181

>>509180
Scrunch.
"Then I'm never listening to your stories again!"

509182

>>509181
"One of them has a giant underground tunneling worm in it…"

509183

>>509182
Close my eyes and look uninterested.
But then open one of them and look sneaky sneaky at her.

509184

>>509183
"Those tunnels…. the sinkhole it made swallowed a whole caravan!

I guess it's boring anyway…"

509185

>>509184
Keep looking at her the same way.
"Go on…"

509186

>>509185
"I thought you weren't interested in my stories!"

509187

>>509186
"If you do sneaky stuff Indy will tell me, so it's okay!"

509188

>>509187
Smile.
"What about you Amber? Are you interested?"

509189

>>509188
"Mmmmaybe!"

509190

>>509189
"Let's find a cozy campfire then!"
Do so!

509191

>>509190
Trot after her.

509192

>>509190
Follow!

509193

>>509191
>>509192
Sit down to face them.
"This was many many years ago. Remember the druid I told you about? This was sometime after I parted ways with him. I left the forest he lived in, not much after I saw a caravan. I was in luck, they were hiring anyone willing to help and guard the caravan, so I did! I was officially a caravan guard."

509194

>>509193
"And the sandworm was inside the caravan?"
Spring up excited.

509195

>>509193
"Oooooh! Mabel the guard! Is this going to be a spooky story?"

509196

>>509194
Chuckle.
"No, it wasn't. It was a regular trading caravan."

>>509195
Smile.
"Maybe it will be!"

509197

>>509196
"Go on then! Tell us!"

509198

>>509197
"We have been travelling only for a few days, across an area with some pretty dry land, almost like a desert!
Everything was quiet… too quiet. There have been warning signs, but we didn't notice them. The trees were all dead, there was no sign of water anywhere, and we didn't see a single soul, not even animals!"

509199

>>509198
"Spooooky!"

509200

>>509198
"So it was just like a desert!"

509201

>>509199
Smile and nod.
"Just wait, it will get spookier."

>>509200
Shake my head.
"Even a desert has life. It has palm trees, tiny lakes with water, all kinds of birds and snakes, small mammals, there was nothing here!

We were just pondering about how strange that was, when the ground started to tremble!"
Hold my forehooves up and shake them.

509202

>>509201
"So there was something!"

509203

>>509201
"Oh no! Earthquake!"

509204

>>509202
>>509203
Smile.
"Actually, Soil is right! The earth wasn't shaking by itself…
It was being shook by something!"

509205

>>509204
"An elephant?"

509206

>>509204
"An Ursa Major?"

509207

>>509205
>>509206
"A giant tunneler sandworm!"

509208

>>509207
Widen my eyes!
"Oooooh!"

509209

>>509207
"Ah! Spoilers!"

509210

>>509208
>>509209
"It was really giant! There was no kidding when it was named!"

509211

>>509210
"And then you slammed it!"

509212

>>509210
"You stabbed it then, right?"

509213

>>509211
>>509212
Shake my head.
"Ironically, we didn't even know what it was at first. It only surfaced when it was a loooooooong way ahead of us. It didn't want to hurt us!"

509214

>>509213
"Wait, that's not scary at all then!"

509215

>>509213
"Ahw. No slamming then?"

509216

>>509215
"Nope.
No slamming."

>>509214
"It shouldn't be… but even when it passed, the ground still shook. It travelled near the surface since it wanted to come up, but all those carts full of goods were very heavy.."

509217

>>509216
"Eh, boring story."
Snort dismissively.

509218

>>509216
"So… what then?"

509219

>>509218
>>509217
"The ground below us collapsed! We all fell straight into the huge tunnel that it dug!"

509220

>>509219
"Aaaaaand?"

509221

>>509219
Look back, kinda interested.

509222

>>509220
>>509221
Frown.
"Sadly, most ponies didn't survive the fall, and some who did got crushed by the carriages and wagons. I only managed because of my quick reaction times and acrobatics I've learned in the circus. A mare also made it, but her wounds were too severe… She asked me to not let her bleed out, so I brewed her a tea that would put her to sleep forever…

After she passed, I was trapped in an underground tunnel, alone, in the middle of nowhere."

509223

>>509222
"… Oh. That's awful! What an awful story!"

509224

>>509222
"So you walked back!"

509225

>>509223
"I never said it was a happy one."

>>509224
"If only if it was that simple! I tried to climb and jump out, but I couldn't! I was trapped!"

509226

>>509225
"So…?"

509227

>>509225
I scrunch and sit down.
"Now you've made me feel sad, thanks a lot Mabel."

509228

>>509226
"I was trapped! I wandered around for a lot of time in those tunnels… I don't even know how long! Then I met a diamond dog who offered a way out… but that is a story for another time."

>>509227
"Should I tell you about the clowns at the circus then?"

509229

>>509228
"Eh, now I want to slam against one of those worms!"

509230

>>509229
"They are very dangerous! I'm sure they have a tough hide!"

509231

>>509230
"So do I!"
Grin.

509232

>>509228
"Maybe some other time…"

509233

>>509231
"So do you, true."
Smile.

>>509232
Walk over to her and give her a hug!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 5 + 1 = 6

509234

>>509233
Hug back.

Roll #1 2 = 2

509235

>>509234
Pat your back.
"Come on, cheer up…"

509236

>>509235
"Yeah yeah…"

509237

>>509236
Frown a bit.
"I'm sorry, I didn't know you reacted this badly to bitter stories…"

509238

>>509237
"It just makes me sad knowing that you can't save them all."

509239

>>509238
"You cannot save everyone, Amber.
Death is part of lie.
It's how Nature works."

509240

>>509239
"I know… it's really dumb."

509241

>>509240
"It's just nature, Amber!
Give and take. For example, take Inferni. He has to kill small animals to stay alive to eat meat. It's just how it works, there is nothing to be sad about that! You just have to accept it!"

509242

>>509241
"That's different! Ponies are sentient!"

509243

>>509242
"What if bad ponies couldn't die either then?"

509244

>>509243
I scrunch.
"I'm not saying ponies shouldn't be able to die… It's just sad that some ponies die young! Especially the innocent ones!"

509245

>>509244
"Life is not always fair."
Put a hoof on her chin to make her look into my eyes.
"That is why it's important that you enjoy what you can, and be as kind and generous to others as you can."

509246

>>509245
"I try to be… that's why I want to become a paladin!"

509247

>>509246
Smile and ruffle her mane again.
"That's exactly what I like in you."

509248

>>509247
Give her a crystally hug.
"I like you too, Mabel!"

Roll #1 6 = 6

509249

>>509248
Hug back!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3

509250

>>509249
"You're a great friend. I'm happy we're all traveling together!"

509251

>>509250
>>509249
Looks like the hug approached a bit of the awkward length.
I don't mind though, as long as Amber is happy with the hug.

"I'm happy too. I don't think I've felt this good since the circus."

509252

>>509251
"And I since… well… before the whole Sombra thingy!"

509253

>>509252
"You never really told me about your life before, did you?"

509254

>>509253
"Well it was a thousand years ago after all!"

509255

>>509254
"That doesn't mean I'm not interested!
Or do I need an archeologist degree to listen to it?"

509256

>>509255
I giggle a bit.
"You don't! Things just were more peaceful back then. We didn't have technology like those scary noisy gun things and those loud trains! No civil war to worry about either! It's kind of sad that we missed so much and outlived so many ponies, but it's also exciting to explore this new world!"

509257

>>509256
"You couldn't have met me either."
Chuckle.
"Did you have ciruses back then?"

509258

>>509257
"I think so, but I never visited one back then. Jousting tournaments were much more popular!"

509259

>>509258
Smirk.
"Did you like them?"

509260

>>509259
"Of course I liked watching them! I've never used a lance before, but it looks like a lot of fun!"

509261

>>509260
"You would have loved to see my fencing shows then!"

509262

>>509261
"I would! Definitely!"

509263

>>509262
Chuckle.
"We've made it so that it's even flashier than regular combat!"

509264

>>509263
"I don't know about that, my warhammer when charged with holy power is very flashy!"

509265

>>509264
Shake my head.
"I meant we did moves that had no combat purpose but looked good for an audience!"

509266

>>509265
"Oh…"

509267

>>509266
Chuckle.
"That doesn't mean I don't know actual combat. Do you know why I carry that dinky little dagger with me?"

509268

>>509267
"Why did it take you a full fucking hour to respond you worthless mule?"
Scratch my mane.
"Um… because it's really cute looking?"

509269

>>509268
Let out a small laugh.
"No, because I don't use it offensively, I use it to block attacks!
If I block with the small dagger that is easy to use, I can still riposte with my rapier!"

509270

>>509269
"Oh… I just block attacks with my armor or my hammer!"

509271

>>509270
"If I wore armor I couldn't do this!"
Do something acrobatic that hopefully looks amazing!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

509272

>>509271
"Uh…"

509273

>>509272
"Just wait, my back is still a bit sore from the fight!"
Come on, something easy!
Like standing on one hindleg and bending backwards!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 5 + 1 = 6

509274

>>509273
"Oh! Right!"

509275

>>509274
Get back on my hooves.
"Armor also makes sneaking around hard!"

509276

>>509275
"Yeah, but I'm bad at sneaking anyway! Especially now that I emit light!"

509277

>>509276
"I'm saying if I wore armor to block attacks it would make it hard for me!"

509278

>>509277
"Maybe, but with enough training moving around in armor gets much easier!"

509279

>>509278
"It still makes a lot of noise!"

509280

>>509279
"Yeah… that's true!"

509281

>>509280
"See? That's why I don't wear armor like you do!"

509282

>>509281
"I didn't know you were that sneaky, Mabel! I thought only Warren was!"

509283

>>509282
"You never saw me sneak around?"
Smirk.
"Then I was doing it right, weren't I?"

509284

>>509283
I gasp.
"Whoa! You're right!"

509285

>>509284
Do a little bow.

509286

>>509285
"You better not be spying on me while I think I'm alone though!"

509287

>>509286
"Why would I do that?"

509288

>>509287
"I don't know!"

509289

>>509288
"I wouldn't!"

509290

>>509289
"Good. That would just be creepy."

509291

>>509290
"I'm not creepy, am I?"

509292

>>509291
"Only if you don't spy on people!"

509293

>>509292
"Again, what makes you think I would do that?"

509294

>>509293
"Nothing, it was just a thought!"

509295

>>509294
"Why do you have such thoughts?
Do you spy on people?"

509296

>>509295
"Of course not! I'm terrible at sneaking anyway!"

509297

>>509296
"Or maaaaaybe you just say that!"

509298

>>509297
"I give light and sparkle whenever I succeed at things!"

509299

>>509298
"Are you saying you are really good at sneaking then?"

509300

>>509299
"No, because it gives me away! I tried sneaking into the kitchen to eat candy before dinner once and mom almost immediately saw me!"

509301

>>509300
I chuckle.
"I admit, you do get excited a lot."

509302

>>509301
"I was so close to getting that candy though!"

509303

>>509302
"If you behave like a good little crystal pony, I might buy you some candy in Ponyville.
How about that?"

509304

>>509303
"I'm not little, Mabel! And as an adult I can buy my own candy now!"

509305

>>509304
"Wouldn't it taste better if it was a gift though?"

509306

>>509305
"… Maybe."

509307

>>509306
"So would you like some candies in Ponyville?"
Chuckle.

509308

>>509307
"Sure!"

509309

>>509308
Ruffle her mane.
She makes the silliest face when I do that.
"There we go then!"

510362

A new day dawns….

At the first ray of sunlight the paladins gather in the center of the camp for the daily rites of Cadance administered by the chapter priestess.
This is your second day in the camp. Since Amber has to stay here for a few days to learn the basics of being a paladin, you've decided to stay as well. You've been assigned a tent to sleep in (one male, one female). Amber is expected to be present at the rites.
The others are free to do as they please, I believe you guys have things to do anyway.

510363

>>510362
So. The book.
What's needed for this ritual?

510365

>>510362
Is there a nice clearing nearby?
Take a calm, refreshing morning walk.
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

510366

>>510362
Let's go to those rites! Yes!

Roll #1 1 = 1

510367

>>510362
I might as well check in on Vilina, see if she's feeling better. And Tulip, afterwards. See how her night in a tent went.

510370

>>510363
In addition to shamanic powers, you need to gather a number of herbs.
>Dandelion
>Grogar's Rot
>Imp Stool
>Sunflower

>>510365
You take a walk outside of the camp.
Your calming walk through the green lush forest is interrupted as you walk too far and get to the corrupted part again.
Seeing the crystallized broken flowers makes you feel sad.

>>510366
You're running late and you quickly run to attend the rites.
The priestess is already talking as you try to get to the front as far as possible, causing a lot of "hey" "what are you doing?" and you apologizing as you push your way to the front.
High Lady Crown sighs.

>>510367
You find Vilina in the medicae tent.
She looks up as you come in.
Despite her having slept all night, she seems tired.
"Hello Warren. Come to visit the monsters?"

510372

>>510370
Sunflower…
Its name sounds sinister.
Track down Mabel!
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

510373

>>510370
"That's fairly melodramatic, Vilina. I was just coming to see if you felt better."

510374

>>510370
I grin apologetically at her.

510375

>>510370
Frown.
Kneel down beside one of the flowers and stroke it.
"It pains me that this happened to you, beautiful forest…"

510377

>>510372
You find Mabel kneeling and talking to a crystallized flower.

>>510375
And out of the blue Soil appears.

>>510373
She raises her 3 hooves.
"Do I look like I feel better?"

>>510374
The Priestess continues.
"…And today we honor one among you in particular. A young paladin named Amber.
Please step to the shrine."

There is a small altar in the likeness of Cadance right next to the shrine. There's a tiny shining crystal embedded in its base right at head level.
A small tiny piece of the Crystal Heart itself.

510379

>>510377
I beam and walk up to the shrine with some haste.

510380

>>510377
>>510375
Pat her back with strength.
'1d10+2'
"Ready to do this?"

Roll #1 7 + 2 = 9

510382

>>510380
Wince from that and look up.
"Good morning to you too, Soil."

510383

>>510382
"C'mon c'mon c'mon!
We should go look for the stuff!"

510384

>>510377
"Well, you sound well-rested, at least. I'm sure we'll have a way to get you back to four legs in no time at all."
I'll give a small half-smile.
"And it could have been much worse. What if it had made you grow the extra limb where a pegasus would have wings? That would just be silly."

510385

>>510382
Jump all over in excitement.

510386

>>510383
>>510385
Stand up.
"Right. Not in this part of the forest.
Follow me."
Let's find a nice, non-tainted clearing.
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

510387

>>510386
"I'm worried for the flowers! One of them sounds…"
Squint my eyes.
"Eeeeeevil!"

510388

>>510387
"Which one?"

510389

>>510388
Show her the list.
"The Sunflower!"

510392

>>510389
Raise an eyebrow.
"…seriously, Soil?"

510393

>>510392
"What?
Plenty of things with Sun in the name are evil!"

510394

>>510393
"Like what?"

510395

>>510394
Frown.
"Nevermind."

510397

>>510395
"Sunflowers are pretty and not-evil, I can promise you that. There are other flowers I'm wary about on that list."

510399

>>510379
You stand in front of the priestess who lights a bushel of Lavender and waves it around you a few times.
"May Cadance light your way and lead you to Premkana."
She bows and steps back as High Lady Crown steps before you together with another Sentinel carrying some things but you can't see what since it's covered by a white blanket.
"Aspirant Amber, please bow your head and repeat what I say."

>>510380
That's a pretty strong pat.

>>510386
The list Soil hands you are apparently ingredients to create an incense necessary to achieve the required mental state for the ritual.
You return into the forest but don't immediately find the herbs.

>>510384
She snickers.
"Well…yeah, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have taken all this out on you…"

510400

>>510399
Bow my head with a smile.
"Aspirant Amber, please bow your head and repeat what I say!"

510402

>>510399
>>510397
"We should have asked Snacks for help…"
Keep an eye out for the evil sunflowers.

510403

>>510399
I figured!

>>510402
"Things like this take time. Be patient."
Keep looking!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

510404

>>510399
"It's alright. You handled getting new limbs about as well as can be expected, really. I guess this is why Ursa hunts are so regulated."
I'll chuckle a bit.
"On the bright side, you got to skip out on Tulip having to share sleeping space with everyone else."

510406

>>510402
Now with a roll!
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

510407

>>510400
There's some muffled snickering from the crowd.
The priestess raises a brow but says nothing.
High Lady Crown continues undisturbed.
"I swear to uphold the traditions of the Order of the Crystal Heart.
To love each of my Brothers and Sisters of the Order as one of my own blood and help them whenever I can.
To devote my life in service to the Crystal Empire."

>>510402
>>510403
>>510406
You find some sunflowers in the clearing.
They're shining in all colors of the rainbow.
(They literally give a little light in the day)

>>510404
She rolls her eyes.
"That brat! What did she do now?"

510408

>>510407
Squint reeeeeal hard.
"I don't like those flowers."

510409

>>510407
Speak clearly and loudly.
"I swear to uphold the traditions of the Order of the Crystal Heart.
To love each of my Brothers and Sisters of the Order as one of my own blood and help them whenever I can.
To devote my life in service to the Crystal Empire!"

510410

>>510407
"Oh, you know. Raised a fuss they wouldn't give her her own tent, that sort of thing. It took three of us, but we managed to talk her down to an eyemask and earplugs."
I'll shake my head.
"She'll learn eventually. It's just going to be a bumpy ride along the way."

510411

>>510407
Furrow my eyebrows.
"This isn't right."
Are they affected by the Stardust?

510412

>>510411
"Yeah! They are totally evil, see?!"

510413

>>510412
"Sunflowers shouldn't look like this."

510415

>>510413
"You mean these are even more evil?"

510416

>>510415
"Regular sunflowers are not evil. These aren't evil either, just… sick."

510418

>>510416
"Bleah.
I still don't trust them."
>>510407
Go real up close to the sunfowers and stare at them.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

510419

>>510411
>>510408
Actually I wanted to do some pretty semi-magical flowers but I forgot for a second there were already regular sunflowers.
Let's say they are, and there are some uncorrupted sunflowers close by.

>>510409
"Now touch the piece of the Crystal Heart with your right hoof"
She whispers quickly "You don't have to repeat that. Just repeat what comes next"

>>510410
She shakes her head.
"I wonder why she even bothered to come with us. I bet she'll board the next train back to Tall Tale once we're in Canterlot."

>>510418
They stink and make you sneeze.

510421

>>510419
Touch it! Touch it good! With my righty!

510423

>>510419
"She wanted adventure. It'll do her some good to learn 'adventure' isn't all fancy tents and easy pickings."
I'll shrug.
"And we'll see about that when we get there. She might be made of sterner stuff than most of us give her credit for."

510424

>>510421
You feel a shudder of potent energy as you touch it.
"Upon the Crystal Heart and with Cadance as my witness, I swear to uphold the Teachings of Cadance and strive to achieve Premkana."

>>510423
"If she has it, she yet has to show it."

510425

>>510419
Well, pick some the regular sunflowers then.

510427

>>510424
I grin broadly as I feel the energy.
"Upon the Crystal Heart and with Cadance as my witness, I swear to uphold the Teachings of Cadance and strive to achieve Premkana!"

510429

>>510424
"Well, she might surprise us."
I'll smile a little.
"And I admit, I'd be very surprised. Now, should I let you get back to resting, or would you like me to bother you a while longer with idle conversation?"

510430

>>510425
Great, you got them.

>>510427
She nods. "you don't have to say this."
She motions to the Sentinel who steps towards you and unveils a shiny crystal armor from underneath the blanket.
There is a black stripe on it to signify your status as Sentinel.
Crown continues.
"Aspirant Amber, I hereby name you Sentinel. Wear this armor at all times as sign of honor. May it protect you in your time of need."

>>510429
"You're not bothering me at all. How are the others doing? I haven't gotten out of here for a while."

510431

>>510430
"Amber's officially a paladin now. She's off with them this morning. Soil and Mabel went off somewhere, though I'm not sure for what. Meditation, possibly. The others haven't really done much this morning, and Snacks is with Star."
I'll adjust my monocle.
"I was going to visit Tulip after seeing how you were feeling, to see how badly she took sharing."

510432

>>510430
I giggle and prance in place in excitement.
"Thank you, my Lady!"

510435

>>510432
The Sentinel whispers "please hold still, I need to put this armor on you."

>>510431
"Maybe I could brew one of my old potions for her."

510437

>>510435
Be still! Like a statue!

510438

>>510430
Yay.
Dandelion should be easy too.
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

510440

>>510435
"That might be a bit much, but some tea might help. You can never underestimate the power of good tea."

510444

>>510437
The Sentinel places the armor on you.
Crown continues.
"Now as a token of your membership of our order it is my honor to present you with another gift."
The Sentinel hoofs her a Crystal Greathammer.
She holds it out to you.

>>510438
You hear something in the bushes.
A wolf jumps out, but no ordinary one, it seems to have been affected by the Stardust and has grown considerably and gotten another eye apparently.

>>510440
"I was just kidding, mister serious-all-the-time."

510445

>>510444
Try not to squeak in excitement as I take it!
"T-Thank you!"

Roll #1 2 = 2

510447

>>510444
"I figured as much. But the point remains: good tea can have unexpected benefits sometimes. And I'm sure you'd be able to make some absolutely wonderful tea."

510448

>>510444
Slowly start backing away.
'1d10'
Raise a hoof.
"Easy there. I want you no harm. You must be mad about what happened. I am sorry."

Roll #1 6 = 6

510450

>>510445
That was a pretty loud squee.
Roll to not tremble too much so you don't drop it.

>>510447
"Tea isn't my favorite drink. I'm more of a coffee pony."

>>510448
The beast calms down.
But remains wary. It stands there a bit unsure what to do.

510451

>>510450
Hey, I take care of my weaponry!

Roll #1 4 = 4

510453

>>510450
I'll nod slightly.
"Well, to each their own, I suppose. Though I've never really tried coffee."

510454

>>510450
Stop, speaking with a sad tone.
"I wish I could say that I can help but I cannot promise it. I have to help my friends first and it will not be easy."

510456

>>510419
"Bleargh!
Smell just as evil!"
>>510444
Stand between it and Mabel.
"Slow down there pal!"
Look at it mean!
[1d10+3]

Roll #1 8 + 3 = 11

510457

>>510451
You manage, barely.
Crown turns to the crowd.
"This concludes the morning rites, return to your duties."
The crowd disperses.

>>510453
"You haven't? You should! I have a bag of coffee beans with me always. Now that I think of it…could you brew me a cup? The bag should be in the tent somewhere."

>>510454
The wolf whines.

510458

>>510456
The beast takes a few steps back.

510459

>>510457
Hug the hammer close and take a good close look to it.

Roll #1 9 = 9

510460

>>510456
"Calm down, Soil!
It doesn't want to hurt us!"

>>510458
>>510457
Slowly, very slowly and tentatively approach the wolf.
"We do not want to hurt you."

510461

>>510457
"Certainly."
And I'll head towards the lady tents. Hopefully Tulip, or someone, is still in there.

510462

>>510458
>>510460
"I will make sure of that. He better not get near!"

510464

>>510462
"He is scared, Soil! His situation is no different than how Iris must feel right now!"

510465

>>510459
The heft is made of solid steel, there are several runes meaning "love", "honor" and "courage" inscribed in it.
The top is solid yellow crystal, like your coat.

The High Lady turns to you.
"Any questions about the ceremony, Sentinel Amber?"

>>510460
It sits very, very still.

>>510461
Tullip is there.
Sleeping and snoring.

>>510462
Well it doesn't come nearer, but Mabel goes towards it.

510467

>>510465
Sit down in front of it.
Then pat it's head.
"It's okay. You don't need to be scared. Maybe it will get better on it's own with time. Nature always finds a way. I will try to do whatever I can to help the forest restore itself."

510468

>>510465
Well. She's not much of an early riser, is she. Wonder if her earplugs are still in…
"Tulip, wake up."

510469

>>510465
"Did I do good?"
Take a look at my brand new armor too!

Roll #1 1 = 1

510471

>>510464
"So what, we help it too? Let's just kill it."

510473

>>510471
Give him a disapproving look.
"Just because he is sick? Would you kill Tullip too? Would you kill me if I was sick? He needs help, Soil, not to be killed."

510474

>>510469
"Acceptable. But next time you might want to brush your mane before coming to the rites. A paladin must always be presentable."
You notice your mane is a mess.

Your armor looks shiny and crystally.
The only non-shiny thing is the black stripe on it.
"It represents your status within the order. As you become a paladin, the stripe will vanish more and more, as your soul becomes purified. The very highest of our Order do not have a stripe at all."
You notice the stripe on her armor is very very light, almost translucent. You didn't notice it before.

>>510467
The beast sits down and looks at you questioningly, turning its head.
You realize the beast might be a good test for the ritual.

510475

510478

>>510475
''1d10'

Roll #1 4 = 4

510479

>>510474
Well, we would help it get better…
Scratch it's ear.
"Do you want to be cured? We can try to do that."

510480

>>510474
"Oooooh… that's deep! How long have you been in the order, my lady?"

510487

>>510473
"He's a wolf, not a pony!"

510489

>>510487
"I'm not a pony either. Does that mean I have less rights to live?"

510490

>>510489
"You know what I mean! He's not like us, he's just a wolf!"

510492

>>510490
"That doesn't mean his life is worthless."

510493

>>510478
Apparently not.
She grabs her pillow and covers her ears.
"Ooooooh, what time is it…"

>>510479
It holds its head sideways.

>>510480
"Truthfully I do not know. I was in the Order before the Return. I must have been in the Order during the Reign of Sombra, but I remember so little of that time."

510494

>>510492
"That's stupid. It's just a wolf. If it can heal from it it will!"

510496

>>510493
"Oh… yeah… that time…"

510497

>>510493
"You've already missed breakfast."

510498

>>510494
"If you hurt this creature you will hurt me, Soil. That is clear enough, is it not?"

>>510493
Stand up, and pat one of my forehooves with the other.
"Follow me. We are looking for flowers. We need them to be able to help those who were corrupted."

510500

>>510496
There is a pause.
"Let us talk about other things. Now Amber, we haven't discussed this feeling you had earlier, when you met Anarachy."

>>510498
It stands again, eager to help.

>>510497
"Aargh, breakfast. I'll get up."
She stands up.

510501

>>510498
"Bah. This is stupid. Next thing you will say we shoul hug monsters instead."
>>510500
Trot off, leave Mabel to her wolf and smell for strange smells. The smells strange flowers might make.
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

510502

>>510500
I nod quickly.
"Yes! It's hard to describe, but I could feel evil radiating from him!"

510504

>>510500
"On your way out, could you grab Vilina's bags? She mentioned coffee beans, and I can't exactly dig through her things to find them."

510505

>>510500
Pause for a moment.
"Dandelions. Do you know where I might find some?"

>>510501
Let him go.
"Be careful."

510507

>>510501
You quickly find a sickly green set of mushrooms.
Grogar's rot.A little while later you come across some brown mushrooms, Imp Stool.

>>510505
He quickly goes into the bushes, as you follow him you find a fresh set of dandelions.

>>510502
She nods.
"What you felt was the chaotic energy within him."

>>510504
She nods and snoops through her bags.
"Uh…Warren, are you sure? I can't find any bag of coffee beans in here…"

510508

>>510507
"Oh! Because he was an agent of Discord?"

510509

>>510507
Pat his head with a smile.
"Gooood boy!"
Pick the dandelions!
"What about Imp Stools?"

510510

>>510507
Guess that's two out.
See, these didn't glow like the Sunflowers, that's good!
Sun = Bad
Grogar = Good
I should remember this.
Back to Mabel.
Do I have to roll? '1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

510511

>>510507
"Are you certain? She said it was in the tent, so I had just assumed it was in her bags…"
I'll think a moment.
"She wouldn't have lied, I'm sure."
Rub my chin.
"Would you like me to come in and help look for it?"

510514

>>510508
"Exactly. Amber, do you know what our vital energy is?"

>>510510
Not really for getting to her.
You get to her so fast, you got 2 plants while she's still picking dandelions.

>>510511
"Sure, if you want. I need to comb my hair."
She looks through her bags.

510515

>>510509
"You still there? I found the rest."

510517

>>510514
"Uh… like our life energy? Like how some paladins can detect somepony's alignment?"

510518

>>510515
Look up, raising a brow.
"That was fast. Great job! I think we have everything then."

510519

>>510514
I'll head into the tent and pick up Vilina's saddlebags. Looking through the side-pockets for a bag of coffee beans. '1d10'
"So, how was last night? Not too strenuous I hope."

Roll #1 6 = 6

510520

>>510518
"Great! Let's go back to the camp and do it!"

510524

>>510520
"The wolf is coming with us. We test the spell on him, make sure it is safe and help him in the proccess."
Star heading back to camp.
Whistle to the wolf.
"Come on boy! Walk beside me and keep calm, we are going to a place where there are many ponies!"

510525

>>510524
Shrug and go back to camp.

510529

>>510517
"Somewhat. Our life energy is the divine essence that fuels our awareness.
It is through this energy that the divines speak to us. But in the case of those who follow a particular divine being, this energy..transforms, for lack of a better word, to be more like the energy of that divine being. This enables us to perform feats of holy power.
You and me, we are filled with the essence of Cadances divine power and this allows us to communicate with her, ask her for guidance.
Followers of other divinities have a different…form of divine energy.
Because of ourselves being so tuned to Cadance, we can feel it when one who is tuned to another divinity is around us."

>>510524
He stays close to you, but seems wary. Uneasy about going to a camp full of ponies.

>>510525
You're back at the camp.
It seems the morning rites are over.
You hear some of the cooks talking about how a shipment of bread seems to have gone missing.

>>510519
It's not there.
"Oh, I managed, but I'm going to ask for a better mattress and the ven-…what the…where in the feather is my brush?!?"

510531

>>510529
Uh. How str- HEY WHERE IS MY SALAD!?
That djinn tricked me!
Now just a bit angrier, walk with Mabel.

"So how are we gonna do this?"

510533

>>510529
"Wow… so I could sense a follower of Celestia just as well then? Neat!"

510534

>>510529
Hmm.
"Likely the same place as those coffee beans. Come on, we should see if anyone is missing anything else. And before you say anything, your mane looks fine as it is."
Out into the camp.

510535

>>510529
Stroke it's head and neck.
"There, there, don't worry. It's allright."

>>510531
"Give me the book. I want to double check to make sure we do this right."

510536

>>510535
"Sure, sure."
Hoof her the book.

510539

>>510536
Frown.
"Soil, I need you for this. I can't do this without you. Please, you have to calm down."

510541

>>510539
"What? I'm fi-"
Shake my head.
"I'm fine."

510542

>>510541
"Take some deep breaths."

510543

>>510542
'5d10' deep breaths.

Roll #1 4, 1, 5, 4, 6 = 20

510545

>>510531
Maybe he was lying.
He was an air elemental.
Maybe Mabel knows about him.
Ask your money back.

>>510533
"Yes, but it is most handy when dealing with followers of the dark ones, of course. And it isn't just followers, any entities in service to a god.
But you must hone that skill. Feel it and in time you will know which god somepony truly serves just by looking."

Skill unlocked: Detect Vital Force
For now DC7, will go to DC4 once you become more paladin-y.

>>510534
Seems like the cooks lost a shipment of bread.

>>510535
He calms down.
Some paladins approach you.
"What the….what is that…thing doing here?"

PAUSE

510546

>>510545
What can one do with bread, a hair brush, and coffee beans? Maybe others had things go missing. This will bear investigation.

510547

>>510545
"Yes my lady!"
Salute her!
"I will do my very best!"

511005

>>510545
"It is an animal affected by the stardust. I will try to help him."

511007

>>510545
Bah. I just asked for some salad!

511009

>>511007
Anyway, there are ponies complaining about thievery, there's a whole camp open to you, guards are talking to Mabel, so what are you going to do?

>>510547
She salutes you.
"Dismissed."

>>510546
Better get yer looking glass and pipe out.

>>511005
The paladin grumbles.
"Make sure he doesn't cause trouble and keep him close by then."
He returns to his duties.

511010

>>511009
Leave the tent.
Uh… Star! Where is Star?

511011

>>511009
Uh…
Did anypony steal something from me?
Check my inventory!

Roll #1 2 = 2

511013

>>511009
So, let's see that book again.
Make sure everything is in order

511016

>>511010
Star is spectating the training paladins.
As you walk to her, you overhear one of the Aspirants about how someone seems to have stolen bread from the cooks.

>>511011
Let's see, your Daring-Do book is here, your Runed Crystal, your bear mug. This seems all in order, Molly would think so too…..wait, she's missing!

>>511013
The book details how the plants have to be mixed together in a small bowl and then burned.
The practitioner of the ritual must then inhale the smoke to enter a state of trance and place his hooves upon the mutated part of the patient.
Then through meditation and focus the illness can be cured.

511018

>>511016
W-WHAT!?
SHE WAS RIGHT HERE, NEXT TO MY HEART, UNDER MY ARMOR!
AAAAAAAH!
PANIC
LOOK ALL AROUND MY TENT!

Roll #1 6 = 6

511019

>>511016
!
Stolen bread? Crime inside the paladin encampment!?
"Star!"

511021

>>511018
You practically tear up the whole tent but the result is the same.
She's not here.

>>511019
What a shame.
Maybe it was the donk.
She always looked pretty shady.

"Hey Amber. Wow, what pretty armor!"

511023

>>511016
Let's prepare some of the plants into a bowl. Leave enough for the others of course, obviously.
Motion before me to the wolf.
"Sit."

511024

>>511023
The wolf sits down.
Pof.
His 3 eyes stare at you.

511025

>>511021
Mabel? She wouldn't!
"Yeah! I just got it from the lady! Check out my hammer too!"

511026

>>511021
Run off to Iri-
No
Wait
She must rest!
Run to… Mabel!

511027

>>511024
"Now stay like that."
Burn the ingredients.
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

511030

>>511025
Bit strange that suddenly there are thieves right when you lead a bunch of former thieves in the camp and vouched for them.

>>511025
She whistles at the hammer.
"Wow, so you're a real paladin now, for really real?"

>>511026
Mabel is inhaling sacred herbs.

>>511027
As you inhale, colors become more brightly and sounds become distorted.
You start seeing a stream of light within the wolf in front of you, marred by dots of corruption. Continued focus is necessary now.
There's another being walking next to you now, but you're quite uncertain who he is.
Roll to see and understand Soil.

511031

>>511030
S-Shut up! They're my friends!
"Sentinel! Isn't it exciting? I wont even be sent home!"

511032

>>511027
Stop right in front of her and start going crazy, jumping all over.
"She's lost! All alone!
She's not in the tent! She must be so scared!"

511033

>>511030
Whoever he is, he can wait.
Focus on the wolf.
Place my hooves on the corrupted dots.
Get rid of them.
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 3 + 1 = 4

511035

>>511030
I heard someone else was baking?

511037

>>511033
It's hard to concentrate with that other light thing hopping around everywhere and making neigh noises.
Your focus is slipping.

>>511032
Mabel doesn't respond to you.
The wolf starts getting drowsy.

>>511031
"I thought that was ridiculous anyway, why would anypony send you home. I think that mare was just a meanie…mean…meaniepants." she scrunches.

>>511035
Mabel is getting baked not too far from the cooks.
The cooks themselves aren't baking yet since some supplies have apparently gone missing.

511038

>>511037
Ah screw mabel! I will…Go to a guard!
The ponies I heard talk about stolen things earlier!
"Hey! Molly has been kidnapped!"

511039

>>511037
"What? Supplies are missing?"

511041

>>511037
Concentrate, I can do this!
I've meditated a thousand times now!
'1d10+1'

Roll #1 1 + 1 = 2

511042

>>511037
"She seems very angry and intense all the time, that's for sure!"
Look around a little.
"I wonder who her partner is…"

511044

>>511038
The guard turns to you.
"What? One of your companions has been kidnapped?"

>>511039
The cook nods.
"We've lost a crate of bread and now my assistant here tells me a crate of salad is gone as well.
This is an outrage. This has never happened in the time I've been here."

>>511041
You focus trying to eliminate the corruption.
And it does move….into you.
Roll a 1d4
And a 1d10.

>>511042
"I haven't seen her with a partner. She just seems to train all day and be gloomy."

511045

>>511044
"Molly! She's nowhere to be seen!"

511046

>>511044
Oh dear.
'1d4'
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3 / Roll #2 10 = 10

511047

>>511044
"When did they go missing?"

511049

>>511044
I scrunch.
"That's weird… oh, right! Do you know anything about that stolen bread?"

511052

>>511045
"Molly, I was not aware there was anypony with that name amongst your companions. What did she look like?"

>>511046
Your fur turns white.
You're now a snow white donkey.
The wolf looks okay though.
He jumps up and happily licks your snout.
Inferni looks amused at the whole thing from his perch, high up the tents.

>>511047
"Must have been tonight…I'll have to report this to the High Lady. You didn't see anything by chance did you?"

>>511049
She shakes her head.
"Nothing. I was asleep all night."

511055

>>511052
"Oh well… I'll just keep looking around then!"
Let's go for a walk around the encampment and see what we run into!

Roll #1 1 = 1

511056

>>511052
"She was…"
Stop prancing around like a fool and start describing her.
"Like thiiiis tall!"
Put my hoof something like 20 centimeters off the ground.
"Peach coat, blue eyes and a patch on her flank!"

511057

>>511052
I shake my head.
"I'll look for clues."
I start looking around for clues. I've stolen enough food to know what to look for, after all.
[1d10]

Roll #1 3 = 3

511059

>>511052
Smile.
That's a small price to pay.
Pat his head.
"There you go boy, see, I told you that I can make you better."
Stand up.
"Liking my new coat, Inferni?"

511063

>>511055
You run into…Clear Ice.
"Hmph. I see the High Lady allowed you to stay despite my serious concerns."

>>511056
"Was she a filly? Who's the mother?"

>>511057
You don't find anything yet.

>>511059
He seems to think it looks quite funny.

511065

>>511063
I keep searching.
[1d10]

Roll #1 3 = 3

511067

>>511063
Look at him strange, cocking my head.
"My mum?"

511068

>>511063
Noooo!
"Uh… yes! I know you don't like it, but I came here for a reason!"

511069

>>511063
I'll pluck a feather of his and wear it in my mane, then we'll see who has the last chuckle.
Pet the wolf.
"Let's go and make the others better too, shall we?"
Look for Iris.

511071

>>511065
You find some breadcrumbs at the edge of the camp.
But nothing conclusive, whoever did this was good.
Maybe you can ask around the camp if anyone saw anything?

>>511067
"…She was your sister?"

>>511068
"And what reason is that?"

>>511069
He's safely perched on top of one of the tents.
You'll have to pluck one of his feathers later.
Iris is in the medicae tent.
She nods to you as you come in.

511072

>>511071
Look at him like he said something utterly ludicrous.
"No! She was Molly! My doll!"

511073

>>511071
"To see the world and help ponies here in Equestria! They helped us a lot before, so we should return that favor!"

511074

>>511071
I meant later, obviously.
"I think I can cure you, Iris."
Smile.

511075

>>511071
I'll do that, starting with the guards.
"Who was on watch last night and where can I find them?"

511077

>>511072
"A…doll?"
He looks flabbergasted.

>>511073
"I do not doubt your motivation. But I'm concerned that you're biting off more than you can chew."

>>511074
She looks you over and points to your mane.
"What happened?"

>>511075
The guard scratches his head.
"Last night? Must have been one of the Aspirants. Silver Blood, I think his name was. He must be getting ready to sleep now in one of the Aspirant tents."
He points you towards Silver Blood.

511079

>>511077
"Yeah! The most important doll ever!"
Look at him like this is really important.

511080

>>511077
I believe I was looking into the theft of small items.

511081

>>511077
"Thanks!"
I rush over to Silver Blood.
"Sir? Excuse me, sir? Did you see anypony near the food last night who shouldn't have been there?"

511083

>>511077
"You don't know me! I… have my friends to rely on. There's a lot of evil out there that needs to be stopped and I will do my part, not cower away up North!"

511085

>>511077
"Oh, I was testing if I could remove the effects of the Stardust. It worked!… with a little side effect."

511092

>>511079
"Eh..Of course, of course. I'll add it to the list of stolen items. We're still taking stock of what exactly is missing. Have you noticed anything? This night?"

>>511080
One of the guards is talking to Soil about it, seems he lost some things as well.

>>511081
He yawns.
"Look I already told the others. The only thing I heard about all night was when I thought I heard somepony come out of the tent of the newcomers. The male one. I went to investigate and found nothing.
And now everything is stolen, fuck I can forget about becoming a Shield-Brother anytime soon."

>>511083
"That's very-…"
She looks up over your shoulder.
"Yes, Sentinel?"
Apparently a Sentinel came while you were talking.
He salutes.
"Excuse me Lady Ice, I did not want to disturb-"
"Out with it."
"Yes, yes, I needed to speak with Sentinel Amber, about the thefts."
"I see. Go ahead then. She and I will talk later."
She trots to the training field as the Sentinel salutes again.

>>511085
"Little? You're white!"

511093

>>511092
"Hmmm."
I try to stealthily make my way over to the tent where the guys are staying.
[1d10]

Roll #1 10 = 10

511094

>>511092
Turn to the sentinel and wave.
"Hi!"

511096

>>511092
"Doesn't matter for now. What matters is that it works, but it does not come without risk. Do you want me to try and cure you?"

511097

>>511092
Hmm.
Check my saddlebags. Is anything missing?

511103

>>511094
He turns to you.
"Hello to you. I don't believe we've met. I'm Cloudy Diamond."
He extends his hoof.

>>511093
You are so stealthy no one even notices you.
But while you don't notice any hoofprints, you do find a brush in the bushes not too far from the tent. Some broken twigs indicate the thief left the camp and went north, towards the corrupted forest.

>>511096
"…Are you sure?"

>>511097
One of your two cestus seems to be missing.

511106

>>511103
"And I'm Amber! What's this about stuff being stolen? I heard something about bread being stolen already!"

511107

>>511092
Have I?
'1d10'
"But don't you understand? It's like, super important!"

Roll #1 7 = 7

511108

>>511103
Well, that's not too concerning… though I don't exactly leave my things unattended too often. Whoever did this was good.
>>511107
"Soil, what's gone missing for you? So far we've had a few things missing as well. One of my cestus has been taken."

511110

>>511103
"Stardust seems to be pretty volitale. If I can focus properly I will be able to do it."

511111

>>511103
I follow.

511112

>>511108
"MOLLY!"

511118

>>511106
"Well it's not the only thing. There seems to have been small things stolen all over the camp. We're still making an inventory. I was asked to come over and ask what you think about your friends. Are there any thieves amongst them?"

>>511107
You were fast asleep.
"Of course, sir. But we've got lots of other thefts reported as well. We'll get to it."

>>511110
"Okay then. Do I need to do anything?"

>>511111
You enter the corrupted forest again.
An eerie mist hangs over it.
Look around for clues.

511119

>>511118
"Bah, that's useless! I will get to it myself!
Point me at the thieves!"

511120

>>511118
"What? No! Don't start blaming them!"

511121

>>511118
"Just sit still. If you could be silent, that would help me focus too."
Prepare the herbs and ligtht the incense up.

511126

>>511118
I sneakily look around for bread crumbs or any other suspicious thing.
[1d10]

Roll #1 9 = 9

511131

>>511121
You feel the familiar buzzing in your head as the world warps again.

>>511119
"We have no idea who did it so far…we have heard there was activity around your tent this night, however…"

>>511120
"We are not accusing anypony. There are simply some raising concerns that these thefts started right after we brought in your friends. But if you vouch for them, I'm sure they'll believe you."

>>511126
You find some breadcrumbs near a rabbithole.
It is too small to enter.

511132

>>511131
I shake my head and return to the cooks.
"I think a rabbit stole your goods. I found bread crumbs leading into a rabbit hole."

511133

>>511131
"Hmph! Good! Maybe it was Anarchy or something!"

511134

>>511131
Let's focus on that corruption.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

511135

>>511131
"Who saw that?!"

511137

>>511132
"A rabbit? A rabbit might steal some bread but wouldn't steal brushes and blankets! We're flabberghasted. How could somepony do all that and nopony saw it?"

>>511133
"Maybe…look I didn't want to make you mad. I just follow orders."

>>511134
It's too strong…
You might need help for this one.

>>511135
"The night guard. Silver Blood."

511138

>>511137
Focus!
'1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

511141

>>511137
"Where is he?"
As soon as he tells me, go after him.

511142

>>511137
"Brushes and blankets too?"
Do I know Mabel is a shaman?

511143

>>511137
"Well, we're still no closer to finding out who is responsible!"

511145

>>511138
It doesn't move.

>>511141
You find Silver Blood in his tent.
"Yeah?"

>>511142
I suppose you must have heard something about it for now.
"Yeah, can you believe it, who would steal those kinds of things?"

>>511143
"Maybe we can see if somepony else found something…"

511146

>>511145
"Oh, maybe Mabel or Warren will know!"
Where are those two?

Roll #1 9 = 9

511147

>>511145
Take some deep breaths and stop.
Collect my thoughts.
"I'll need Soil for this."

511148

>>511145
"A person? I need to go check something."
I go in search of Mabel.

511149

>>511146
Mabel is in the medicae tent.
Warren is near the cooks.

>>511147
She nods.
"Soil…He's got talent for being a shaman…I know he can help you, Mabel….He's got the heart for it."

>>511148
She's in the medicae tent.

511150

>>511149
>>511147
"Mabel? Are you busy?"

511151

511153

>>511149
"Yes, I'm sure he is-"

>>511150
>>511151
Turn around to face them.
"Yes?"

511155

>>511153
"Things have been stolen all around the camp! We need to find out who's behind it!"

511156

>>511155
Raise a brow.
"Have they now?"

511157

>>511112
Well, I've missed my chance to ask who that is.
I suppose I'll be inspecting the things that were holding the bread. Any sign of forced entry? Or were the breadstocks left unlocked?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

511159

>>511153
"Do you know why a rabbit would steal a hairbrush and blankets?"
I blink.
"Were you always that color?"

511161

>>511157
The breadstocks were held in a tent next to the other supplies, close to the ground. It wasn't locked however. It seems everypony trusts each other around this camp.

511162

>>511156
"Yeah!"
Stare at her for a moment.
"Hey, you're all white!"

511163

>>511159
>>511162
"A rabbit? Stealing things?"
Shake my head.
"Side effect of getting rid of the corruption in a wolf. The effect of the Stardust backfired a bit on me."

511164

>>511161
Well, that's good, but what if a bear shows up and decides their food looks tasty? Or raccoons?
Hmm.
I'll head to the other tents belonging to the paladins. If their owners are there, ask them if anything of theirs is missing as well.
There's no pattern to this, though, so either it's someone's poor idea of a joke, a ruse by Anarchy to throw us off and make us distrust each other… or that cube testing the limits of its influence. To my knowledge, mine was the only weapon taken. I need to see if that was the only weapon taken.

511165

>>511163
"I didn't say anything about a rabbit! What if it's Anarchy?"

511166

>>511163
"That's what it looks like. Will you be okay?"

511167

>>511165
"Why would he be back already?"

>>511166
"I'm okay, don't worry. What makes you think it was a rabbit?"

511168

>>511167
"Breacrumbs I was tracking led to a rabbit hole."

511169

>>511149
Where am I?

511170

>>511167
I shrug.
"I dunno! He didn't seem afraid of us!"

>>511168
I scrunch.
"That's weird…"

511171

Turn to Iris.
"Sorry, we'll have to get back to this once Soil is here as well."

>>511170
>>511168
"Let's go and see that rabbit hole, shall we? Maybe we can find out something more."

511172

>>511171
"Yes! … Do you like my new armor and hammer?"

511173

>>511149
Where am I?

511174

>>511172
Smile.
"You look very nice, Amber. Still adorable too."

511175

>>511171
I take you to the rabbit hole.

>>511172
"They look nice!"

511176

>>511175
Follow!

511177

>>511174
!
"I'm not supposed to look adorable! I'm a paladin!"

>>511175
"Aw, thanks Shortcake!"

511178

>>511177
"An adorable paladin!"

511179

>>511178
"Paladins can't be adorable!"

511180

>>511164
You ask around and some tents had small things taken, including more than a few daggers.
Interestingly, all of the things stolen were on the ground or close to the ground.

>>511169
I suppose you could follow Amber and the team to the rabbit hole to find the stolen items.
Only Warren is left in the camp right now.

>>511175
>>511176
>>511177
All of you are back in the corrupted forest.
It's eerily quiet and the mist isn't helping.
The rabbit hole is too small to crawl through and dark.

511181

>>511177
"You're welcome."

>>511180
"See? This is the hole."

511182

>>511180
Anything more to do than that?

511183

>>511179
"You managed to pull it off!"

>>511180
>>511181
"I see."
Crouch down and look inside.
Do I see anything?
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

511184

>>511182
If you don't want to interact with the rest of the party, you can talk to others about learning about the Crystal Empire or Equestria.

511185

>>511183
I scrunch angrily.

511186

>>511180
So either the thief was short, or was trying to be inconspicuous. I'm going to have to think on this…
Where is everyone else? Got oddly quiet.

511188

>>511184
Grab my stuff and tools then try to track them down.
'1d10'

Roll #1 2 = 2

511189

>>511145
Did I notice the whole party scurry off in that direction?
'1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

511191

>>511181
There are some eerie sounds in the forest.

>>511186
Seems like everyone left to find something.
The paladins say they went outside the camp, north.
Soil is still here though.

>>511188
You find them investigating a rabbit hole.
In the corrupted forest, it is misty here.

>>511183
You see light in the distance.

>>511189
I guess you did.

511192

>>511191
OFF TO THE DIRECTION AT THE PLACE!
"Come Indy, we are gonna save Molly!"

511193

>>511191
"There's light down there.
Anyone has a shovel?"

511194

>>511191
>>511192
I'll flap after Soil
"So, who is Molly, anyway?"

511195

>>511194
"My doll!"
Say this in an entirely natural way, looking just concerned as usual.

511196

>>511191
I try to hide.
[1d10]

Roll #1 7 = 7

511198

>>511196
It's easy to hide in the mist.

511199

>>511191
Go to their direction and try to see if there is any danger nearby.
'1d10'

>>511193
>>511192
>>511196
"What are ponies doing here in this rock?"

Roll #1 2 = 2

511200

>>511199
"Ah, Snacks! We are tracking down a thief. The others say things have been going missing, and there is light down in that rabbit hole. We just need to get down there now."

511201

>>511195
That's…. unexpected. Probably shouldn't let Vilina hear this. She'd probably never stop laughing.
"She must be very important to you if you're this flustered."

511202

>>511195
"Huh? Your doll? I didn't know you had a doll…"

>>511193
"Nope!"

511203

>>511199
No danger to see, but it's pretty misty.

511204

>>511201
"Well duh! She's Molly!"
>>511202
"I do! Since ever!"

511205

>>511199
"Looking for a thief."

511207

>>511204
"This is the first I've heard of her. But we'll get her back."

511208

>>511193
Nope.
But there's a perfectly fine doge here.

511209

>>511200
>>511205
"Why track thief down here? What did theif steal?"
"Should pony and Snack go down the rabbit hole?"

>>511203
Who is with us? How about the others like Tulip and Star?

511210

>>511207
"Damn right we will! It's not the same without her!"

511211

>>511193
Snack can dig if Mabel wants

>>511208
>Doge
W.. what?

511212

>>511209
Tullip and Star aren't here.
It's all PC's.

511213

511214

>>511204
"Uh… uh. Why are you still carrying her around? Why do you need a doll?"

511215

>>511214
"W-
Why shouldn't I?
She's Molly!"

511216

>>511209
>>511211
"We could go down, but it's too small. Could you dig a bit for us?"

511217

>>511214
>>511215
"There's nothing wrong with it, really. It just shows how well he takes care of things that are important to him."

511218

>>511215
I tilt my head and scrutinize him for a moment.

>>511217
"… Right! Well said!"

511219

>>511209
"Bread, lettuce, a brush, and some blankets."

511220

>>511219
"Also a bag of coffee beans, one of my cestus, a hoof-full of daggers, and other small items that were near the ground."

511222

So….how about that digging?

511224

>>511216
Hmmm..

I then try to do just that.
Dig to the rabbit hole and make it wider for both pone and doge
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

511225

>>511222
Sorry, cooking stuff.

511226

>>511224
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQMjCKzNLV8
Diggy, diggy dig.
You widen the hole and eventually burst out in a stone chamber, there are a few torches here with a pile of stolen stuff in the middle.
At the top sits Molly.

511227

>>511226
"Who are you and why are you stealing things?"

511228

>>511227
Molly is a doll.

511229

>>511226
Drop down.
Stealth.
'1d10'

Roll #1 9 = 9

511230

511231

>>511226
"Uh…."
Look around confusedly.

511232

>>511226
>>511228
Whatever's around might still be here.
Pop up Homing magic. '1d10'

Roll #1 8 = 8

511233

>>511226
"MOLLY!"
Go grasp and hug it!

511234

>>511229
You're a stealthy horse.

>>511232
You got 3 motes.

>>511233
She's just as qt and soft as you remember.
She doesn't even seem too scared.

It seems only one room though.
The corridor out to wherever has collapsed.
The torch is lit and lights the whole chamber.
Markings on the wall indicate this is an old Diamond Dog Fort chamber.
But long abandoned.

511235

>>511226
Ouch…
I brush off the dust in my vest.
"Everyone okay?"
Where are we?

"Any idea where we are?" I raise my axe.

511236

>>511234
Jenny.

Look for anything suspicious.
'1d10'

Roll #1 1 = 1

511237

>>511235
>>511234
Oh…
Oh!

Go around the chamber and investigate the area.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

511238

>>511234
"I don't like this…"
Bolster Mabel.

511239

>>511234
Why would there be a lit torch in a rabbit hole?
"Perhaps the stardust got down here as well. Be cautious."
I'll slip into stealth. '1d10+2'

Roll #1 5 + 2 = 7

511240

>>511234
"Hey I've been here already!"
Hide Molly under my armor.

511241

>>511236
That thing there looks really suspicious.
Oh wait, it's only a marking of a diamond doge.

>>511237
There are some markings indicating the Fort was named Methuleft.
But the corridor out has collapsed and it would take many dogs to lift the huge rocks.

>>511238
She's bolstered.

>>511239
You're stealthed.
The fire of the torch cracks a bit.

>>511240
She's safe.

On second look, actually this is not the same fort you previously visited.

511242

>>511241
They look that much different?
Okay.
"Uh.."
Look around a bit.
'1d10'

Roll #1 5 = 5

511243

>>511241
Have I heard of this fort? Do I remember anything from fort class?
'1d10'

I then look at the others.
"Are ponies sure the thief goes this way?"

Roll #1 2 = 2

511244

>>511241
How is that suspicious?

511246

>>511234
[1d10]

Roll #1 9 = 9

511247

>>511246
>>511241
I frown at the surroundings.
"Lets get out of here. We found the stuff."

511248

>>511242
Well there are similarities of course.
They might have been built by the same dogs, as the forts are not that far from each other.
BUT you have never been in this particular room before.
It's one room.
With a burning torch and a pile of stolen items.
The only corridor out seems to have collapsed.

>>511243
You don't remember anything.

>>511244
You threw a 1, it startled you.

>>511245

You're still stealthed.

>>511246
There doesn't seem to be anypony here.
You find some drag marks on the floor, all these items seem to have been dragged here through the rabbit hole, but no sign of animals.
There are some other holes in the wall however, even more tiny.

511249

>>511241
"We may have to take watches, to see if the owner of this burrow returns. It might be a Dusted creature."

511250

I'm here in some capacity too!

511251

>>511248
Gah!

"We should get the stuff and go back. I'm creeped out."

511252

>>511248
…And how did I get in here then?

511253

>>511248
I start bundling up the blankets and brushes.

>>511244
"Any idea why a rabbit would steal all of this?"

>>511250
We are all in a collapsed DD fort we found after Snacks burrowed through a rabbit hole. Not sure where you are.

511254

>>511253
Shrug.
"No idea."

511255

>>511248
Lets explore the area shall we? Try to find the area's where there are dig spots and what not?
'1d10'

>>511243
>>511254
>>511253
>>511252
>>511249
I repeated myself
"Are ponies sure the thief goes this way? Snack dont think so."

Roll #1 8 = 8

511256

>>511255
"This is where the stolen items are, so it had to come this way. I think it was just a thieving bunny."

511257

>>511255
I'm not with you other guys anymore.

511258

>>511255
"All the stolen items are here. I'm confused about this though."

511259

>>511252
Through the rabbit hole.
I was talking about Diamond Doge corridors.

>>511251
You're welcome to pack it all up and go back to camp.

>>511253
It's easy to pack up.

>>511255
You're welcome to try to dig through the floor.
Clearing the corridor would require a 10 though.

511260

>>511257
You're with the others.
You came through the rabbit hole in this one room.
The corridors out of this room have collapsed, the improvised bunny hole you used to get in hasn't

511261

>>511259
So…
"The stuff is here.
Let's take it and go back up!"
Go near the stolen stuff.
"Indy, can you smell the thief?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

511262

>>511256
I scratch my head.
"Explains about the hole though."

>>511258
"Why is that?"

>>511259
Try to use my doge senses and see what kind of operations these past doge's are doing.
'1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

511263

>>511258
>>511257
>>511255
"Come on, let's get going."

511264

>>511255
"It's a possibility. The only way into here is through that rabbit hole. It's just odd."
>>511259
I might as well get those coffee beans for Vilina, and Tulip's hair brush.

511265

>>511263
Follow while doing my thing.

511266

>>511260
So I guess I'm in here too.

>>511263
I follow.

511267

>>511261
He smells around.
He even smells Molly.
"It's strange…everything here smells like nopony touched it…"

>>511262
This probably used to be a bedroom for the miners. You see some decayed hay on the floor, very poor Forts had their poorest sleep on hay.

>>511264
They're all here.

511268

>>511267
Widen my eyes in surprise.
"It's been that air elemental again!"

511269

>>511262
"I don't get why something would steal all this."

>>511263
"I agree."

511270

>>511268
"Air elemental?"

511271

>>511266
Sorry for not updating you, but I'm pausing in a few min.
And I didn't feel it was necessary anymore.
Some items have been stolen from the paladin camp.
And the party has found them in this abandoned DD fort.
There is no sign of the thief though.

511272

>>511271
It's cool.
Sorry for not noticing the quest was running sooner.

511273

>>511270
"I told you guys before!
But I guess you were too busy thinking about all your secret stuff you never tell me about!"

511274

>>511273
"You may have told them, Soil, but this is the first I've heard of it. Where did you meet this elemental?"

511275

>>511274
"That's just because you don't listen!"

511276

>>511267
Look through the hay and investigate if there are anything that might prove something lived here recently.

>>511269
"Steal all what? Snack is still in the dark what is stolen and who steal it."


>>511271
Alright

511277

>>511262
I nod.

>>511265
>>511266
>>511267
I return to the cooks with the stolen things.

511278

>>511277
You've returned everything.
They're most grateful to you for returning their stuff.
But the question remains…
Who stole it…why..and will he return?
The guard is doubled as the night comes again.
The party is welcome to volunteer to guards as well if they want.

PAUSE

511279

>>511278
I'll join them. I'm curious.

511280

>>511276
Point at the random assorted stuff in te middle of the room.
"Random items from everyone. We don't know who did it."

511281

>>511275
I'll be silent for a small moment, and then sit.
"That's possible."
I'll take off my monocle for a moment, and squint at it.
"Unintentional, but possible."
Sighing, I'll replace the monocle.
"But now that I am listening, are you going to not say anything?"

511282

>>511278
Yeah sure. But first there's something I have to do with Iris!
>>511281
"It was nothing big.
An air elemental was trapped in a fort like this, me and Indy got him free and he promised us salad and gems!
But he's not paid us back yet…"

511283

>>511280
Go to the refuses of random assorted stuff and see if I can find any clue.

"Maybe we will find a clue who did it, or to whom these items are stolen?"
'1d10'

Roll #1 10 = 10

511284

>>511282
"There might have been a reason he was trapped, then. Like not fulfilling his end of the bargain. Did you get his name?"

511285

>>511284
Shrug.
"Air elemental?"

511286

>>511285
"That doesn't really narrow it down, I'm afraid. Will you be able to recognize him if we run across him again, or get Mabel to speak with other Air Elementals?"

511287

>>511286
"He just looked like a lot of red smoke, nothing more.
If I see red smoke, that's probably him."

511288

>>511283
"That's possible."

>>511285
Perk my ears.
"Air elementals?"

511289

>>511287
"Right. Still, this will teach you to ask for your side of the deal first."

511290

>>511288
"It is, that is why Snack is investigating."

I then tilt my head and look at her.
"Air elementals?"

511291

>>511288
"Yeah! Red with smoke and eyes and stuff.
I told you already!"
>>511289
"Not like I was gonna put him in a box again!"

511292

>>511290
"That's what I've heard Soil say."

>>511291
"I'm not sure that is how they look. I am going to visit Air elementals soon, so I can't be sure."

511293

>>511292
"What? Why? Are they gonna make a tornado or something?"

511294

>>511291
"Well, yes, but a little show of good faith from a business partner you don't know goes a long way. Just keep that in mind next time you make deals with elementals."

511295

>>511294
"It was more like…
Him thanking me."

511296

>>511293
Shake my head.
"No, I just want to talk with them. I will need the help of Warren though."

511297

>>511295
"Well, I suppose there's that. Just try to have them keep to a schedule, though."
>>511296
"You would? Why?"

511298

>>511297
"The spell, remember?"

511299

511300

>>511299
"I can't reach them if I can't fly."

511301

>>511300
"But… Why talk to them anyway?"

511302

>>511298
"Ah, right. That still needs to be cast."
>>511299
"A spell Mabel received from the Fire Lord. Supposedly it will help her fly."

511303

>>511302
"Once we have time for it."

>>511301
"Because I want to get to know them better."

511304

>>511303
"But why?"
>>511302
"Freaky magic!
If I have to fly I will just wait for Indy to grow up!"

511305

>>511304
"To broaden my point of view about nature and get to know more!"

511306

>>511304
"That could take hundreds of years, Soil."
I'll flap my wings a little.
"A pegasus tied to a hot-air balloon would be a faster way of getting you into the air."

511307

>>511305
"Boring."
>>511306
"I'm trusting Indy way more!"

511308

>>511306
"Or a phoenix."

>>511307
I frown.
"If that's what you think."

511309

>>511307
"Well, by the time he's big enough to carry you, you might be too old to go flying."
>>511308
"Phoenixes are a bit of a special case."

511310

>>511309
Look at Indy for a moment.
"He grows faster than that!"

511311

>>511310
"I should hope so, otherwise you're going to be waiting for a very long time."

511312

>>511309
"Aren't they. I hope what Inferni will say to my new phoenix feather manedress."

511313

>>511312
"Isn't he basically going to be sitting on you most of the time?"

511314

>>511313
"Or flying around. He is a free spirit, he hated his cage. I only want his feather to make fun of him like he made fun of me."

511315

>>511314
"I'm sure it's all good-natured."

511316

>>511315
Smile.
"Of course it is, but I can't let a bird get the better of me, can I?"
Chuckle.
"Don't tell him I said that."

511317

>>511316
I'll chuckle as well.
"He'll probably figure it out on his own, if he hasn't already."

511318

>>511317
"He's a crafty one, I have to give him that."

511319

>>511318
I'll nod.
"Well, if you excuse me, I've some coffee beans and a mane brush to return to their owners."

511320

>>511319
"Okay… Oh, and by the way, if you see Viliana tell her that we can fix her. I already tested out the method Soil found on a wolf. I will need his help to cure Iris and her, but we can do it."

511321

>>511320
"She'll be thrilled to hear that."

511322

>>511321
"I'm sure. We were lucky to find every flower we needed so quickly."

511323

>>511322
"Well, they can't have been that rare, could they have?"

511324

>>511323
"No, but what if it was a flower that grew far away from here?"

511325

>>511324
"Then we'd have a bit of a walk between there and here. And it could have been fairly close, as the bird flies."

511326

>>511325
"Thankfully, it was all nearby."
Chuckle.
"Though Soil called Sunflowers evil for reasons I cannot fathom."

511327

>>511326
"It must have been the black bit in the middle."

511328

>>511327
"Possibly. I guess his mind will have to be changed by showing him how tasty the seeds can be."

511329

>>511328
"Well, we'll have to fix up Iris, Vilina, Shortcake if she wants it, and yourself first."

511330

>>511329
"I can wait, the others are more important. I got away easy. I think it could have been worse if all the corruption in that wolf got into me."

511331

>>511330
"We should be grateful it didn't. Otherwise you wouldn't be able to help get everyone else right. I really do have to run, though, and Soil's probably itching to get Iris's voice straightened out."

511332

>>511331
"Right. See you around in the camp!"

511333

>>511332
"See you later."

512523

While others have to do thing, you have to report to High Lady Crown, paladin.

512524

>>512523
That's right! Get there!

512528

>>512524
You enter her tent.
She's studying a few books.
"At ease, Sentinel. Sit down. How are your studies progressing?"

512530

>>512528
"Some of the words in my book that are used are a bit hard to understand, but it's going well enough!"

512531

>>512530
"Anything in particular you don't understand?"

512532

>>512531
"Nope, whenever I get stuck, I just ask for help from one of my friends! They're all so smart!"

512534

>>512532
"I don't doubt your friends desire to help you is earnest, but that doesn't necessarily make it right.
Tell me, how would you define Premkana?"

512536

>>512534
"Uh… that's a hard one to explain! It's like… when two ponies have a really deep bond with each other and are able to use the energy behind that bond and turn it into divine power!"

512539

>>512536
"Mmmm, yes. Not a bad answer.
Would you know where this energy comes from?"

512540

>>512539
"Uh… love? I mean… that's what powers it, right?"

512541

>>512540
"Yes and no. It is love that creates and binds the bond between the 2 ponies. The energy itself flows through that bond. But it's not the source…"

512542

>>512541
"Then the ponies are the source!"

512543

>>512542
She smiles.
"Exactly. Sermon 15 of the Book talks more of this."

512544

>>512543
"It's a big book! But I aim to know it inside out as soon as possible! I don't recall the exact wording of Salmon 15 though…"

512545

>>512544
"Sermon 15, young Sentinel, sermon. Keep mind of your words and how they make you look, for you are part of the Order know and represent us always."
She clears her throat.
"And so Cadance entered the city of R'maghul carrying the Torch of Vulvara and the foul demons within the City fed before its blinding light.
At the foot of the Citadel in the middle of the city sat a foul creature whose name is known to only the most wise.
His body was made of the Black of Midnight and within its jaw where 3 precious stones, an ancient practice. He looked upon the Princess Of The Empire with malice.
"Surely you have outsmarted the Blood of Chaos, but in this city only darkest darkness reigns."
The Midnight tendrils stretched out, putting out the torch and engulfing the princess.
But she merely looked upon the horror and exclaimed "You cannot claim me. For within me burns the Secret Fire which no darkness can pierce."
And the tendrils grasped and slithered in vain, for they could not hurt the Princess.
Humbled, the demon submitted before the Crystal Princess and she ordered him to guard the 4th Gate forever.
"

512546

>>512545
I jump in excitement.
"That's an amazing story, my lady! … Hey, have you ever personally met the Savior?"

512547

>>512546
"It is not merely a story. It is a sermon, which means there is a wisdom within the story, which must be contemplated and extracted. And yes, I have met her when my training was completed, as will you."

512548

>>512547
"Oooooh! I can't wait!"

512549

>>512548
"It is a powerful experience, meeting somepony as powerful and wise as Cadance up close. But don't get ahead of yourself, you still have far too go."

512550

>>512549
I nod quickly.
"I know! But I'll work hard!"

512551

>>512550
"How goes your search for a paladin partner?"

512552

>>512551
"Uh… I was going to meditate on that earlier, but then the whole thievery stuff kind of distracted me for a while!"

512553

>>512552
"You better get to it then. This is of the utmost importance. If there are no more questions, I'll dismiss you."

512554

>>512553
Salute.
"That's all, my lady! Thank you for having me!"

512555

>>512554
"Dismissed then."
She turns back to her books.

You're free in the camp.

512556

>>512555
I want to find a nice spot to meditate and pray…

Roll #1 6 = 6

512557

>>512556
You meditate on the edge of the camp.
Roll a 4d10

512558

>>512557
[4d10]

Roll #1 6, 10, 9, 10 = 35

512559

>>512558
New revelations open themselves to you.
You have a vision of a river of silver.

512560

>>512559
A river of silver? What else do I see!?

512561

>>512560
At the source is a beating heart. The silver flows from it.

512562

>>512561
Like… a heart shape or an actual organic heart?

512563

>>512562
An actual organic heart.
It beats.

512564

>>512563
… Ew.
What could that mean? Silver blood? That sounds very unhealthy… so it must be symbolic! any other details?

512565

>>512564
That's pretty much it.

512566

>>512565
A river of silver flowing from a pumping heart… That must have some kind of intricate meaning! I'll need to ask someone about that!
Snap out of it for now.

512567

>>512566
You're still in the camp.

512568

>>512567
Silver river… Silver river…
Hmmm… let's take a walk around the camp and watch the other sentinels for now.

512569

>>512568
Most of them seem to be training or otherwise studying.
You see a green mare named Emerald shine meditating near the shrine of Cadance
You see a white, nearly translucent stallion named Glass Wall practicing with his daggers.
You see the stallion named Silver Blood practicing hoof combat on a training dummy.
Clear Skies is overlooking some other candidates.

512570

>>512569
NAMED SILVER BLOOD!?
Rush over to him!
"Hey! Hey hey!"

512571

>>512570
He stops and wipes the sweat of his brow.
"Yes? You're the new Sentinel right? Amber or something?"

512572

>>512571
"Exactly! Your name is Silver Blood right? Guess what I just saw in a vision!?"

512573

>>512572
"Are you one of the others that claim Cadance talked to them in a vision? You're not the first one."

512574

>>512573
"What? Well… maybe… I don't know if it was from her directly though. Doesn't matter, I saw a river of silver blood flowing from a beating heart!"

512575

>>512574
"Yeah, I don't think anypony here has ever received a vision from Cadance herself. Oh and a river of silver blood? Cool."

512576

>>512575
"That's you! Silver Blood!"

512577

>>512576
"Yes, my name is Silver Blood….I have to say this is the weirdest excuse anypony ever gave to talk to me…"

512578

>>512577
I giggle
"I bet! Such an exciting new experience! But it's true, I did see that while meditating. What could it mean?"

512579

>>512578
"Look, I know that meditation and visions can be part of being a paladin. But you don't have to look too hard into it. I've seen an ant with a top hat and a cane once while meditating, that doesn't mean there's one in the wilds."

512580

>>512579
"There might be one! Wouldn't surprise me after all the crazy stuff we've ran into the last few weeks!"

512581

>>512580
"Who knows, but I'm not going to check. I have more training to do."

512582

>>512581
"Don't you want a weapon for that? I mean… hoof combat is fine and all, but it wont beat a hydra or something else really big!"

512583

>>512582
"Hoof combat strengthens the hooves and legs, making it more easy to wield actual weapons.
And it doesn't hurt to know some when in a pinch."

512584

>>512583
"That's true! Other exercises are probably faster to grow muscle, but I guess beating up a dummy is… good too?"

512585

>>512584
"You beat up a dummy to strengthen the bone."

512586

>>512585
Boop his nose.
"Wait… you didn't tell me what kind of weapon you actually use!"

512587

>>512586
"I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't do that."
He points to a war axe and shield.

512588

>>512587
"But it strengthens your nose!"
Look at his axe and shield.
"Nice! I use the warhammer!"

512589

>>512588
"How fun. Now if you would excuse me I'd like to return to my exercises."

512590

>>512589
"Hey, we could practice against each other! It'd be fun!"

512591

>>512590
"I'd rather not. I've already sparred against some of my peers today. This hour is scheduled as a hoof combat hour to strengthen bone."

512592

>>512591
"I'll fight you with my hooves then! Come on!"

512593

>>512592
He sighs.
"Allright, will you leave me to my exercises afterwards?"

512594

>>512593
I grin mischievously.
"If you win!"

512595

>>512594
"And what happens if I lose?"

512596

>>512595
"Nothing! Aren't I nice?"

512597

>>512596
"Okay then. Assume position."
He hoofbumps you.
Rolling for initiative '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

512598

>>512597
INTENSE CONCENTRATION FACE
[1d10]

Roll #1 3 = 3

512599

>>512598
Again '1d10'

Roll #1 7 = 7

512600

>>512599
[1d10]!

Roll #1 7 = 7

512601

>>512600
It's like you're made for each other~
Again '1d10'

Roll #1 3 = 3

512602

>>512601
I'm better!
[1d10]

Roll #1 1 = 1

512603

>>512602
He wins.
Time for a hoof to your face '1d10+1'

Roll #1 2 + 1 = 3

512604

>>512603
Oof! Hit back! Hit back!

Roll #1 8 = 8

512605

>>512604
You back off and give him a left hook to the face.
Right hook to your liver. '1d10'

>Amber 1/3

>Blood 0/3

Roll #1 1 = 1

512606

>>512605
Not gonna work! Counter it with my lefty!

Roll #1 6 = 6

512607

>>512606
>Amber 2/3
>Blood 0/3

You get a +1 to your next attack.

"You're not bad, I'll give you that."
Headbutt '1d10'

Roll #1 6 = 6

512608

>>512607
"Of course not, I'm a good pony!"
Grab his head and stop him, then punch!

Roll #1 10 = 10

512609

>>512608
You do exactly that and punch him into the ground.

"You're definately good. I can see why the High Lady made you Sentinel."
He gets up again.

512610

>>512609
"I'm not a child anymore, that's for sure!"
Wait for him to make a move.

Roll #1 10 = 10

512611

>>512610
>a move
He's not doing anything.

512612

>>512611
"You're done? Are you giving up?"

512613

>>512612
"You beat me to the ground. It was just some sparring. You did great."
He offers a hoofbump.

512614

>>512613
I scrunch.
"We could have done more! It's good to keep going when you've settled into a rhythm!"
Bump his hoof anyway.

512615

>>512614
"I have a rythm. Testing against this dummy."
He turns to the dummy again and starts smacking.

512616

>>512615
"Dummies don't fight back… There's only so much you can gain from beating them!"

512617

>>512616
"It is not about sparring. It is about perfecting my technique. This requires focus and concentration."

512618

>>512617
I cock my head in confusion.
"Are you an aspiring professional dummy puncher?"

512619

>>512618
"No it's about perfecting the technique."

PAUSE

512620

>>512619
"But… how can you perfect your technique against a dummy? It's not possible!"


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