File: 1374180453857.png (2.41 MB, 800x618, The House of Belle.png, IO Google TinEye)
Zzzz…
…It's morning… just before 7AM. All at once, the ships seem to spring to life with activity.
Looking out the window… Oh, you've arrived! And it looks like there's a welcoming party on the pier.
…It's morning… just before 7AM. All at once, the ships seem to spring to life with activity.
Looking out the window… Oh, you've arrived! And it looks like there's a welcoming party on the pier.
>>451844
>>451843
>>451847
>>451851
It would seem that none of the menials or other crew members have left the ships. They've formed up near the gangplanks to exit the ships. Smitts is at the front with a few other officers. There's another shore party arriving with much aplomb, too…
Yes… it seems it's right at 7AM.
>>451849
He's out with Umlock, Al-Jinn, Smitts, and Topaz, waiting near the gangplanks to the shore.
>>451852
This stately town is a serious upgrade compared to Reptil. Large, Prench-style structures dominate the streets. Further down the road, you can see groves, fields, and mansions, but here in town, there are a variety of shops and entertainment centers, such as concert halls and plazas. Flags are everywhere, as are ponies. The number of flags is quite nearly outrageous, and not one of them is pinned up: they're all on flagpoles, whether standing erect or hanging off the side of a structure.
The vast majority of ponies here are earth ponies, and they are in pleasant attire, dominated predominately by cotton and silk cloths. They are dressed in the styles of the day, and quite nicely at that.
Notable stand-out figures are one extremely nicely dressed pony at the head of a procession on course to meet with the Smitts group. He's being followed by guards and a small marching band.
The only particularly odd ponies about are a couple of ponies stationed near the dock peering across the boats and their inhabitants. Their dress is far from the formal of all the others here (as even the soldier pones are in highly ornamental dress): it is very functional. Black-dyed leather outfits, tightly drawn. Buckled down in several places with gleaming, shiny buckles. They wear black cockel hats that feature prominent buckles.
>>451858
You find her on the Pillager's Fancy.
>>451843
>>451847
>>451851
It would seem that none of the menials or other crew members have left the ships. They've formed up near the gangplanks to exit the ships. Smitts is at the front with a few other officers. There's another shore party arriving with much aplomb, too…
Yes… it seems it's right at 7AM.
>>451849
He's out with Umlock, Al-Jinn, Smitts, and Topaz, waiting near the gangplanks to the shore.
>>451852
This stately town is a serious upgrade compared to Reptil. Large, Prench-style structures dominate the streets. Further down the road, you can see groves, fields, and mansions, but here in town, there are a variety of shops and entertainment centers, such as concert halls and plazas. Flags are everywhere, as are ponies. The number of flags is quite nearly outrageous, and not one of them is pinned up: they're all on flagpoles, whether standing erect or hanging off the side of a structure.
The vast majority of ponies here are earth ponies, and they are in pleasant attire, dominated predominately by cotton and silk cloths. They are dressed in the styles of the day, and quite nicely at that.
Notable stand-out figures are one extremely nicely dressed pony at the head of a procession on course to meet with the Smitts group. He's being followed by guards and a small marching band.
The only particularly odd ponies about are a couple of ponies stationed near the dock peering across the boats and their inhabitants. Their dress is far from the formal of all the others here (as even the soldier pones are in highly ornamental dress): it is very functional. Black-dyed leather outfits, tightly drawn. Buckled down in several places with gleaming, shiny buckles. They wear black cockel hats that feature prominent buckles.
>>451858
You find her on the Pillager's Fancy.
>>451866
>>451871
>>451872
>>451875
>>451881
First, you enjoy a pleasant marching tune, then you block it out and listen to the discussion being held by the commodore and this very nicely dressed pony.
"Good morning, Governor."
"Well howdy, it's a damn pleasure ta have y'all here, and I just wanted to be sure I welcomed you in person."
He gives a grin and outstretches his hoof, which Smitts accepts and shakes.
"And you held us at the port…"
"Like I said! So I could meet you in person. It wouldn't be very hospitable of us to let you out on the town before lettin' you enjoy our hospitality. And besides, while you were waitin', restin' from yer drink, we got'ch y'all accommodations."
"That won't be necessary, though I appreciate it. We're just day traders, we're here to trade for some of your famous crop, and we'll be on our way this evening."
"Well it's a dayum shame. Still, better to try Dixie and go than ta never try her at all! I think you may find yourselves at home here – Hell, you may not wanna leave! That bein' said, if'n you need anything, please, come by my office. I will teach you the meaning of Southern Hospitality."
With that he gives another winning grin and shakes hooves before gesturing to the soldiers, who back off from the docks, and the menials begin flooding in the town.
The governor remains around to wave and smile.
>>451873
"It looks like we just wrapped up."
>>451871
>>451872
>>451875
>>451881
First, you enjoy a pleasant marching tune, then you block it out and listen to the discussion being held by the commodore and this very nicely dressed pony.
"Good morning, Governor."
"Well howdy, it's a damn pleasure ta have y'all here, and I just wanted to be sure I welcomed you in person."
He gives a grin and outstretches his hoof, which Smitts accepts and shakes.
"And you held us at the port…"
"Like I said! So I could meet you in person. It wouldn't be very hospitable of us to let you out on the town before lettin' you enjoy our hospitality. And besides, while you were waitin', restin' from yer drink, we got'ch y'all accommodations."
"That won't be necessary, though I appreciate it. We're just day traders, we're here to trade for some of your famous crop, and we'll be on our way this evening."
"Well it's a dayum shame. Still, better to try Dixie and go than ta never try her at all! I think you may find yourselves at home here – Hell, you may not wanna leave! That bein' said, if'n you need anything, please, come by my office. I will teach you the meaning of Southern Hospitality."
With that he gives another winning grin and shakes hooves before gesturing to the soldiers, who back off from the docks, and the menials begin flooding in the town.
The governor remains around to wave and smile.
>>451873
"It looks like we just wrapped up."
>>451897
"I would advise it, yes. In any case, I do think I've nearly perfected it. The chances of success would be about 80%, give or take. Not bad."
>>451898
Happy Puzzle seems to be already in front of you. Not sure when she got there. Wark grumbles something, and Onik nods and follows.
>>451906
You get everything wrapped up on your ship in record time and shoo your engineering corps out to town.
>>451903
As you step through an archway near the end of the pier, a nearby blackbird caws.
Three of the ponies dressed in leather, cockel hats, and gleaning buckles approach you.
"You've been randomly selected for a search, sir. Please comply."
"I would advise it, yes. In any case, I do think I've nearly perfected it. The chances of success would be about 80%, give or take. Not bad."
>>451898
Happy Puzzle seems to be already in front of you. Not sure when she got there. Wark grumbles something, and Onik nods and follows.
>>451906
You get everything wrapped up on your ship in record time and shoo your engineering corps out to town.
>>451903
As you step through an archway near the end of the pier, a nearby blackbird caws.
Three of the ponies dressed in leather, cockel hats, and gleaning buckles approach you.
"You've been randomly selected for a search, sir. Please comply."
>>451919
"YOU HAVE COME AS REQUESTED GOOD WE HAVE BUSINESS IN THIS CITY BUT ENTRY FOR ME WILL BE MORE DIFFICULT I WILL MEET YOU AT THE FOUNTAIN TAKE YOUR TIME WE HAVE ALL DAY COME READY TO WORK."
>>451920
"Ideally, an alternate test subject. Mister Curry has provided that. Once he gets his mark to appear and I test the spell on him, I can be certain it will work – if it doesn't, I can finetune it from there and be sure it will work."
>>451923
>>451927
It's empty, as Terrebonne is out on the town. Her door is, of course, open.
>>451928
He grumbles something inaudible but stays with the group.
The town itself sprawling and lacks formal 'districts' – as though people just kept building structures and didn't particularly care about zoning. Everything here is a shop or service joint, though. You're sure there are some apartments around town, but of course, the elite will live outside of town in the mansions.
>>451930
"Nothing like that, sir."
"Stand still, sir."
"Just a moment, sir."
They run their hooves over your outfit in various places, then exchange a few nods.
"False positive."
"You're free to go."
"Enjoy your stay."
"YOU HAVE COME AS REQUESTED GOOD WE HAVE BUSINESS IN THIS CITY BUT ENTRY FOR ME WILL BE MORE DIFFICULT I WILL MEET YOU AT THE FOUNTAIN TAKE YOUR TIME WE HAVE ALL DAY COME READY TO WORK."
>>451920
"Ideally, an alternate test subject. Mister Curry has provided that. Once he gets his mark to appear and I test the spell on him, I can be certain it will work – if it doesn't, I can finetune it from there and be sure it will work."
>>451923
>>451927
It's empty, as Terrebonne is out on the town. Her door is, of course, open.
>>451928
He grumbles something inaudible but stays with the group.
The town itself sprawling and lacks formal 'districts' – as though people just kept building structures and didn't particularly care about zoning. Everything here is a shop or service joint, though. You're sure there are some apartments around town, but of course, the elite will live outside of town in the mansions.
>>451930
"Nothing like that, sir."
"Stand still, sir."
"Just a moment, sir."
They run their hooves over your outfit in various places, then exchange a few nods.
"False positive."
"You're free to go."
"Enjoy your stay."
>>451938
It's a stately city. Wood is prominent. You recognize some Prench themes, but it definitely has its own culture. You stop in a gazebo and appreciate a small pond.
>>451939
Not right now, Felfire. I'm working. Tomorrow, perhaps.
>>451940
You go to where you last saw him and search in the dark for a while, and just when you're about to give up…
"Looking for me?"
>>451941
"I wouldn't know anything about that. Though… maybe it would be better if you stayed on the ship. We'll only be in town for the day."
>>451942
You wander the streets aimlessly and stop outside a fine pastry shop. A nicely-dressed earth pony beckons you over.
"Please, sir, come try my pastries! The first one is on me."
>>451944
She's trying to talk to some jar with a brain floating in it!
>>451946
You stop by the chapel, which is most pristine. Sun symbolism is everywhere.
It's a stately city. Wood is prominent. You recognize some Prench themes, but it definitely has its own culture. You stop in a gazebo and appreciate a small pond.
>>451939
Not right now, Felfire. I'm working. Tomorrow, perhaps.
>>451940
You go to where you last saw him and search in the dark for a while, and just when you're about to give up…
"Looking for me?"
>>451941
"I wouldn't know anything about that. Though… maybe it would be better if you stayed on the ship. We'll only be in town for the day."
>>451942
You wander the streets aimlessly and stop outside a fine pastry shop. A nicely-dressed earth pony beckons you over.
"Please, sir, come try my pastries! The first one is on me."
>>451944
She's trying to talk to some jar with a brain floating in it!
>>451946
You stop by the chapel, which is most pristine. Sun symbolism is everywhere.
>>451959
"I'd rather not get anyone in trouble… we'll only be here hours, anyway."
>>451960
The windows are all stained glass. Today is the Day of the Sun, but the first ceremony took place at daybreak, an hour ago, and you manage to navigate the stragglers exciting the church. They'll be reconvening for the longer service at noon, if memory serves.
The chapel is radiant from the inside: the stained glass casts vibrant yellows and oranges all over the chamber. At the front, behind the pulpit, there is a huge organ.
Happy Puzzle remarks, "Woo! It's sunny here!"
>>451961
I can't lose my concentration. Another time.
Link breaks.
>>451964
It seems there is a corner club nearby.
>>451966
"Yes. Like what we're standing in. Nothing metaphorical or magical. Just dark. Opposite of standing out in the sun."
>>451967
You slobber everywhere.
The pony pretends not to notice and gives it to you. It's pretty delicious, and apple-flavored. Anyway, he seems satisfied and returns inside.
"Enjoy."
"I'd rather not get anyone in trouble… we'll only be here hours, anyway."
>>451960
The windows are all stained glass. Today is the Day of the Sun, but the first ceremony took place at daybreak, an hour ago, and you manage to navigate the stragglers exciting the church. They'll be reconvening for the longer service at noon, if memory serves.
The chapel is radiant from the inside: the stained glass casts vibrant yellows and oranges all over the chamber. At the front, behind the pulpit, there is a huge organ.
Happy Puzzle remarks, "Woo! It's sunny here!"
>>451961
I can't lose my concentration. Another time.
Link breaks.
>>451964
It seems there is a corner club nearby.
>>451966
"Yes. Like what we're standing in. Nothing metaphorical or magical. Just dark. Opposite of standing out in the sun."
>>451967
You slobber everywhere.
The pony pretends not to notice and gives it to you. It's pretty delicious, and apple-flavored. Anyway, he seems satisfied and returns inside.
"Enjoy."
>>451979
You wander for a time, and eventually find a small shop with a sign that reads:
Immortal Emporium
Hm. Well, there are blades in the window, so you wander in. There is a balding earth pone at the counter, polishing a shield.
"Aye, sir?"
>>451982
You buy five more apple treats for ten bits. Mmmm… you'll save these for later.
"You can reheat those if you're careful not to burn 'em, but I promise they're best fresh."
>>451983
You push open the door like it belongs on a saloon, but quickly find this is more of a quiet pub than a bar. Nicely dressed ponies are enjoying polite conversation and wines throughout the room.
You're stopped at the entrance. "Miss, there's a cover charge for entry."
>>451985
It's a pleasant burg. There are flags everywhere of course, and the styles are reminiscent of Prench, but everything seems warm and inviting. Happy ponies are all around, and everyone is dressed nicely. It's practically like a city of dollhouses.
>>451980
He's in the back, enjoying a glass of water and cooling off after a fiery morning sermon.
>>451989
"I'm afraid my presence has been requested out on the town. Or specifically, outside of the town. It's just for the day, don't worry yourself too much."
>>451990
"How to use it, of course. It doesn't take brains, just a particular set of talents. But first, I confess, I have business in town. Although… perhaps you'd like to come? Thing is… I'm meeting up with some other diamond dogs. They wouldn't like it if you brought any of your pony friends. You could bring other dogs if you like, but no ponies. Definitely no griffons."
>>451991
You try to catch up, but as you cross under a wooden arch at the end of the pier, a nearby blackbird caws.
A couple of the functionally-dressed ponies in black leather with the gleaming buckles approach you.
"You've been randomly selected for a search, miss. Please comply."
"Do you have any magic to declare?"
You wander for a time, and eventually find a small shop with a sign that reads:
Immortal Emporium
Hm. Well, there are blades in the window, so you wander in. There is a balding earth pone at the counter, polishing a shield.
"Aye, sir?"
>>451982
You buy five more apple treats for ten bits. Mmmm… you'll save these for later.
"You can reheat those if you're careful not to burn 'em, but I promise they're best fresh."
>>451983
You push open the door like it belongs on a saloon, but quickly find this is more of a quiet pub than a bar. Nicely dressed ponies are enjoying polite conversation and wines throughout the room.
You're stopped at the entrance. "Miss, there's a cover charge for entry."
>>451985
It's a pleasant burg. There are flags everywhere of course, and the styles are reminiscent of Prench, but everything seems warm and inviting. Happy ponies are all around, and everyone is dressed nicely. It's practically like a city of dollhouses.
>>451980
He's in the back, enjoying a glass of water and cooling off after a fiery morning sermon.
>>451989
"I'm afraid my presence has been requested out on the town. Or specifically, outside of the town. It's just for the day, don't worry yourself too much."
>>451990
"How to use it, of course. It doesn't take brains, just a particular set of talents. But first, I confess, I have business in town. Although… perhaps you'd like to come? Thing is… I'm meeting up with some other diamond dogs. They wouldn't like it if you brought any of your pony friends. You could bring other dogs if you like, but no ponies. Definitely no griffons."
>>451991
You try to catch up, but as you cross under a wooden arch at the end of the pier, a nearby blackbird caws.
A couple of the functionally-dressed ponies in black leather with the gleaming buckles approach you.
"You've been randomly selected for a search, miss. Please comply."
"Do you have any magic to declare?"
>>452013
They move in to give you a pat down. How do you react to that?
>>452014
"There's an old statue of a diamond dog in town – Persius. From it you can see a storm cellar door directly to the west. Meet me down there."
>>452016
He blinks, wiping the sweat from his brow.
"Mornin'– Well, a new face in the congregation, and– no… you look familiar… Have we met?"
His face rapidly shifts through emotions of exhaustion, to pleasant surprise, to deep thought.
>>452017
No maps out in town, so you just wander a bit. You stop by a cherry stand, and the nice pony there offers you a free pawful, and directions around town, if you like.
>>452018
"The cover charge is fifty bits, but it's an open bar."
>>452020
You bolt past crewmembers and Felfire who has apparently been stopped for an inspection. No one seems to care to stop you. It's nice here, there's a small marching band playing nearby, and the buildings are quite nice.
>>452021
"Thank'ye kindly. Anything I can help you with today, son?"
>>452022
A nearby stallion gives you a winning smile, "Now, who'd say that? I reckon you got the wrong impression about Dixie, darlin'. And that just t'ain't fair at all. Now, I know I can't just make you change your opinion, so tell ya what, why don't you cool off and enjoy the sights? Here, buy yourselves an ice cream, on me."
He pulls out a coinpurse and shakes loose about twenty bits and hoofs them off to Summer. Without even waiting for a thank you, he smiles and leaves.
>>452023
"Practice being polite?"
They move in to give you a pat down. How do you react to that?
>>452014
"There's an old statue of a diamond dog in town – Persius. From it you can see a storm cellar door directly to the west. Meet me down there."
>>452016
He blinks, wiping the sweat from his brow.
"Mornin'– Well, a new face in the congregation, and– no… you look familiar… Have we met?"
His face rapidly shifts through emotions of exhaustion, to pleasant surprise, to deep thought.
>>452017
No maps out in town, so you just wander a bit. You stop by a cherry stand, and the nice pony there offers you a free pawful, and directions around town, if you like.
>>452018
"The cover charge is fifty bits, but it's an open bar."
>>452020
You bolt past crewmembers and Felfire who has apparently been stopped for an inspection. No one seems to care to stop you. It's nice here, there's a small marching band playing nearby, and the buildings are quite nice.
>>452021
"Thank'ye kindly. Anything I can help you with today, son?"
>>452022
A nearby stallion gives you a winning smile, "Now, who'd say that? I reckon you got the wrong impression about Dixie, darlin'. And that just t'ain't fair at all. Now, I know I can't just make you change your opinion, so tell ya what, why don't you cool off and enjoy the sights? Here, buy yourselves an ice cream, on me."
He pulls out a coinpurse and shakes loose about twenty bits and hoofs them off to Summer. Without even waiting for a thank you, he smiles and leaves.
>>452023
"Practice being polite?"
>>452030
You head out into town. You think you saw Chip go into a shop, and Sateo go wander off to some food vendors.
>>452034
This gets their attention, and several other of the ponies dressed in black leather and cockel hats begin to gather.
"You'll need to submit to a search, miss."
"This is a random screening for the safety of the town."
"Please calm down."
More blackbirds begin gathering, landing on nearby posts and the arch, cawing like crazy.
>>452035
"You might employ it in the next city. Who knows? Being likeable could help someday."
>>452037
"Oh, of course. Sun worship is the oldest religion known to ponykind. Predates the Princess and her heresy by a few thousand years at least. Historically, the north of Equestria was a stronghold for belief in the divinity of the Sun – as opposed to the Princess – as well as Prance. Dixie was settled mostly by settler from Prance. Though, the modern North of Equestria is obviously a barren wasteland – it seems that the Celestia administration didn't do much for their health. But you don't want to know about politics! You want to know about the Faith! You may realize that all life comes from the sun – this isn't even a theological dispute. Plants absorb energy from the sun, and we eat plants. It's a natural chain. And it's proven that time in the sun keeps you healthy. But on the side of Divinity, there's much fulfillment to be found in praising the sun."
>>452038
He's already gone.
>>452042
There's a very nice marble-slab parlor nearby, and they're giving out free samples, too.
"What can I get you, little lady?"
>>452039
"Well, a walking stick might be in one of those odds and ends places. Or if you want a metal one, might be in Immortal Emporium, up on Dove Avenue. Birds, though… Well, if you're looking for Black Jays like everyone else, the best are bred by the Order itself, so you might ask them if they're selling."
>>452047
"I'll be honest with you son, I've never heard of either of those metals. They must be powerful rare – or maybe we have dif'ernt names for 'em. I can definitely help you if you need something more common, though."
>>452049
You spot Felfire flipping out by the ships.
>>452055
Well, it seems. She's been trying to fly this morning, but not having any luck at all. She doesn't have the necessary feathers yet, anyway.
You head out into town. You think you saw Chip go into a shop, and Sateo go wander off to some food vendors.
>>452034
This gets their attention, and several other of the ponies dressed in black leather and cockel hats begin to gather.
"You'll need to submit to a search, miss."
"This is a random screening for the safety of the town."
"Please calm down."
More blackbirds begin gathering, landing on nearby posts and the arch, cawing like crazy.
>>452035
"You might employ it in the next city. Who knows? Being likeable could help someday."
>>452037
"Oh, of course. Sun worship is the oldest religion known to ponykind. Predates the Princess and her heresy by a few thousand years at least. Historically, the north of Equestria was a stronghold for belief in the divinity of the Sun – as opposed to the Princess – as well as Prance. Dixie was settled mostly by settler from Prance. Though, the modern North of Equestria is obviously a barren wasteland – it seems that the Celestia administration didn't do much for their health. But you don't want to know about politics! You want to know about the Faith! You may realize that all life comes from the sun – this isn't even a theological dispute. Plants absorb energy from the sun, and we eat plants. It's a natural chain. And it's proven that time in the sun keeps you healthy. But on the side of Divinity, there's much fulfillment to be found in praising the sun."
>>452038
He's already gone.
>>452042
There's a very nice marble-slab parlor nearby, and they're giving out free samples, too.
"What can I get you, little lady?"
>>452039
"Well, a walking stick might be in one of those odds and ends places. Or if you want a metal one, might be in Immortal Emporium, up on Dove Avenue. Birds, though… Well, if you're looking for Black Jays like everyone else, the best are bred by the Order itself, so you might ask them if they're selling."
>>452047
"I'll be honest with you son, I've never heard of either of those metals. They must be powerful rare – or maybe we have dif'ernt names for 'em. I can definitely help you if you need something more common, though."
>>452049
You spot Felfire flipping out by the ships.
>>452055
Well, it seems. She's been trying to fly this morning, but not having any luck at all. She doesn't have the necessary feathers yet, anyway.
>>452066
Looks like that was a specialty, they don't have it.
They do have some other magic ice creams, though.
Fizzy Lifting Cream and Neverending Gobcream, notably.
>>452067
"Well, I'll be free this evening."
>>452068
"Black Jays are bred to detect magic – particularly dangerous magics. They also prey on mosquitoes, which is a perk. They're an adapted species. Very intelligent, very surgical. In the wild, they hunt magic bugs, which are more dangerous than you'd think. Legends of course say they eat fairies, too, but I ain't never seen no fairy."
>>452070
You're next to the gangplanks.
"You won't be allowed to enter Dixie without complying to a search. You can opt to stay on your boat instead."
>>452071
Up on deck, you can see you've docked in Dixie. It seems quite pleasant.
>>452073
He's talking at a cherry stand to the proprietor.
>>452074
"The dominant one. There are a few oddballs, and they're mostly tolerated. Oh, and of course the local little swamp sheep. T'be honest, they're practically a fixture in town, no one's too worried 'bout them. They're a bit queer, yes, but good enough folk. Keep to themselves. Don't buy in to the zealotry that they're all practicin' voodoo 'n what have you. Don't want a crusade on our hands! Gotta be good ta yer neighbors."
>>452080
"Oh, yes. It's a little less common, but we do have some stock."
>>452087
They turn their attention to you as well.
"You haven't declared your magic."
One of the ponies pulls out a shiny chrome ball and drops it to the ground. The protective bubble pops immediately, and you feel as though your catalyst… sleeping. You're not sure how to put it into words. What an odd sensation.
Looks like that was a specialty, they don't have it.
They do have some other magic ice creams, though.
Fizzy Lifting Cream and Neverending Gobcream, notably.
>>452067
"Well, I'll be free this evening."
>>452068
"Black Jays are bred to detect magic – particularly dangerous magics. They also prey on mosquitoes, which is a perk. They're an adapted species. Very intelligent, very surgical. In the wild, they hunt magic bugs, which are more dangerous than you'd think. Legends of course say they eat fairies, too, but I ain't never seen no fairy."
>>452070
You're next to the gangplanks.
"You won't be allowed to enter Dixie without complying to a search. You can opt to stay on your boat instead."
>>452071
Up on deck, you can see you've docked in Dixie. It seems quite pleasant.
>>452073
He's talking at a cherry stand to the proprietor.
>>452074
"The dominant one. There are a few oddballs, and they're mostly tolerated. Oh, and of course the local little swamp sheep. T'be honest, they're practically a fixture in town, no one's too worried 'bout them. They're a bit queer, yes, but good enough folk. Keep to themselves. Don't buy in to the zealotry that they're all practicin' voodoo 'n what have you. Don't want a crusade on our hands! Gotta be good ta yer neighbors."
>>452080
"Oh, yes. It's a little less common, but we do have some stock."
>>452087
They turn their attention to you as well.
"You haven't declared your magic."
One of the ponies pulls out a shiny chrome ball and drops it to the ground. The protective bubble pops immediately, and you feel as though your catalyst… sleeping. You're not sure how to put it into words. What an odd sensation.
>>452095
"Magic flavors. The Lifting Cream causes a slight floating effect… and the gob, well, it slowly refills, so if you don't finish it all at once, it keeps expanding. Gotta be careful though, it takes a little time to stop expanding outside the glass, so you don't wanna wolf it down, or you'll feel WAY too full later on."
>>452097
One of the female ponies in black leather shakes her head.
"Miss, this has nothing at all to do with concealed items, and everything to do with magical abilities. A visual search will determine nothing at all."
Blackbirds are swarming now. Caw caw caw caw caw!
>>452098
It cocks its head at you. Hopefully it's old enough to understand.
>>452099
"They have a lodge on the edge of town. Can't miss it – they use oak – rather dark wood compared to the birch often used in town."
>>452100
Itztli is on the deck observing the pier.
>>452108
"Well, Glory Belle finally woke up. That's all anyone wants to talk about. Poor girl's the last of her family, now. There's a fund going around for her, if you'd like to make a donation."
>>452112
Yes, you have. But you quickly track them to an icecream parlor.
>>452113
"What do you mean, what does it do? It's metal! You make stuff with it!"
"Magic flavors. The Lifting Cream causes a slight floating effect… and the gob, well, it slowly refills, so if you don't finish it all at once, it keeps expanding. Gotta be careful though, it takes a little time to stop expanding outside the glass, so you don't wanna wolf it down, or you'll feel WAY too full later on."
>>452097
One of the female ponies in black leather shakes her head.
"Miss, this has nothing at all to do with concealed items, and everything to do with magical abilities. A visual search will determine nothing at all."
Blackbirds are swarming now. Caw caw caw caw caw!
>>452098
It cocks its head at you. Hopefully it's old enough to understand.
>>452099
"They have a lodge on the edge of town. Can't miss it – they use oak – rather dark wood compared to the birch often used in town."
>>452100
Itztli is on the deck observing the pier.
>>452108
"Well, Glory Belle finally woke up. That's all anyone wants to talk about. Poor girl's the last of her family, now. There's a fund going around for her, if you'd like to make a donation."
>>452112
Yes, you have. But you quickly track them to an icecream parlor.
>>452113
"What do you mean, what does it do? It's metal! You make stuff with it!"
>>452120
"If you're outta towner, you wouldn't know her. She was from a house of some minor prestige, but the line ends with her I'm afraid. Well, it's possible she'll find a suitor, but to be honest, the girl seems to have given up hope after her brother died. And the rumors about the family aren't helping – rumors I won't get into because I have some respect for the dead. Still, if you'd like to see if you can cheer her up, I know she used to love to see the travelers come in. You might visit her down at the parish… There's a real formal abbey on the edge of town, can't miss it for the bell. You know this little old chapel is just to save the folks a walk in the mornin' and ta look pretty."
>>452122
"FAILURE WAS NOT PLAUSIBLE."
>>452123
She's freakin'.
>>452125
Noted. You depart the ship. There are some oddly dressed ponies in black leather and cockel hats, decorated with gleaming buckles, but they're too busy with Felfire to care about you.
>>452126
"There is no problem with magic. We're just ensuring it is documented and registered. Safety is our concern, miss. You can use your magic, we just need to know about it. Same as declaring a weapon when you come into a city. This isn't outrageous. Please just calm down and comply with a quick search."
>>452127
"One ore? How much do you need in pounds?"
>>452128
"We can detect your magical capabilities with our own magic. This is done by tracing your personal body leylines."
>>452130
He smiles and gives you a little spoonful. "Free samples, remember?"
>>452135
You find him in Immortal Emporium.
"If you're outta towner, you wouldn't know her. She was from a house of some minor prestige, but the line ends with her I'm afraid. Well, it's possible she'll find a suitor, but to be honest, the girl seems to have given up hope after her brother died. And the rumors about the family aren't helping – rumors I won't get into because I have some respect for the dead. Still, if you'd like to see if you can cheer her up, I know she used to love to see the travelers come in. You might visit her down at the parish… There's a real formal abbey on the edge of town, can't miss it for the bell. You know this little old chapel is just to save the folks a walk in the mornin' and ta look pretty."
>>452122
"FAILURE WAS NOT PLAUSIBLE."
>>452123
She's freakin'.
>>452125
Noted. You depart the ship. There are some oddly dressed ponies in black leather and cockel hats, decorated with gleaming buckles, but they're too busy with Felfire to care about you.
>>452126
"There is no problem with magic. We're just ensuring it is documented and registered. Safety is our concern, miss. You can use your magic, we just need to know about it. Same as declaring a weapon when you come into a city. This isn't outrageous. Please just calm down and comply with a quick search."
>>452127
"One ore? How much do you need in pounds?"
>>452128
"We can detect your magical capabilities with our own magic. This is done by tracing your personal body leylines."
>>452130
He smiles and gives you a little spoonful. "Free samples, remember?"
>>452135
You find him in Immortal Emporium.
>>452137
"Perhaps I shall if I have the time to spare."
Nod my head in appreciation.
"Thank you for the information, father. Have a nice day."
Alright.
Back to the ship.
Put on some different clothes, wash up and take off the badge I'm wearing, then turn to my followers.
"I will not be needing you for the time being. You may roam around as you please."
"Perhaps I shall if I have the time to spare."
Nod my head in appreciation.
"Thank you for the information, father. Have a nice day."
Alright.
Back to the ship.
Put on some different clothes, wash up and take off the badge I'm wearing, then turn to my followers.
"I will not be needing you for the time being. You may roam around as you please."
>>452143
"Be about thirty to forty bits."
>>452146
Yes, the dark building can be spotted from quite the distance.
>>452147
The shrug and split up. Happy Puzzle smiles. "I'll stick with you anyway!"
>>452149
"Then we can't allow you into the city. You have our sincerest apologies."
>>452151
"THE POWER OF CHAOS IS INNUMERABLE IN CAPABILITIES AND INEFFABLE IN POTENTIAL."
>>452152
You just took a little bite, but you feel like your personal gravity has… lessened. You give a little hop, and you notice you went a lot higher than usual and sort of… sank down instead of falling back down. Interesting.
>>452153
There are a lot of ponies here. There are some woods to the south that look positively ideal, though.
>>452155
It only takes a second. A female pony slides a hoof along your torso and up and down one leg, then nods.
"You're clear. Enjoy your stay."
>>452156
"She could submit to a branding, but that is highly unpleasant. It would block magical potential for the duration of her stay."
"Be about thirty to forty bits."
>>452146
Yes, the dark building can be spotted from quite the distance.
>>452147
The shrug and split up. Happy Puzzle smiles. "I'll stick with you anyway!"
>>452149
"Then we can't allow you into the city. You have our sincerest apologies."
>>452151
"THE POWER OF CHAOS IS INNUMERABLE IN CAPABILITIES AND INEFFABLE IN POTENTIAL."
>>452152
You just took a little bite, but you feel like your personal gravity has… lessened. You give a little hop, and you notice you went a lot higher than usual and sort of… sank down instead of falling back down. Interesting.
>>452153
There are a lot of ponies here. There are some woods to the south that look positively ideal, though.
>>452155
It only takes a second. A female pony slides a hoof along your torso and up and down one leg, then nods.
"You're clear. Enjoy your stay."
>>452156
"She could submit to a branding, but that is highly unpleasant. It would block magical potential for the duration of her stay."
>>452158
"Hmmm…. can you have it ready for me mister. I would like to consult my master first before making the purchase if that is fine with you." I smile at him.
"By the way, can I have your name just in case? My name is Chip."
>>452160
"Really? Thats mighty fine, I will come of course." I smile at Tony
"Hmmm…. can you have it ready for me mister. I would like to consult my master first before making the purchase if that is fine with you." I smile at him.
"By the way, can I have your name just in case? My name is Chip."
>>452160
"Really? Thats mighty fine, I will come of course." I smile at Tony
>>452161
"AH YOU REFER TO POSTHUMOUS POTENTIAL YES IT HAS BEEN MUCH ON MY MIND LATELY AS WELL THE CHANGER PROVIDES A REALM KNOWN AS THE ETERNAL PARTY FOR HIS SERVANTS."
>>452162
"We don't know what she's capable of, sir. It's just a quick search, and it's harmless."
>>452164
You pay 8 of your 20 bits and get yourself a cup of it.
>>452165
A pony in black leather and a cockel hat with a bunch of gleaming belt buckles opens the door.
"Something to report?"
>>452166
"I'm Sudden Strike. Pleasure is mine. And certainly, I'll have it here when you return."
>>452169
Well… there are some routes near plantations, you bet you could find ponies to hunt here.
Still… you better be careful. Killing ponies could get you in a lot of trouble if you get caught.
>>452170
"I'm sure they're fine."
She happily trots along behind you.
"Plus I don't even know who you're talking about! I sure do know a lot of unicorns."
"AH YOU REFER TO POSTHUMOUS POTENTIAL YES IT HAS BEEN MUCH ON MY MIND LATELY AS WELL THE CHANGER PROVIDES A REALM KNOWN AS THE ETERNAL PARTY FOR HIS SERVANTS."
>>452162
"We don't know what she's capable of, sir. It's just a quick search, and it's harmless."
>>452164
You pay 8 of your 20 bits and get yourself a cup of it.
>>452165
A pony in black leather and a cockel hat with a bunch of gleaming belt buckles opens the door.
"Something to report?"
>>452166
"I'm Sudden Strike. Pleasure is mine. And certainly, I'll have it here when you return."
>>452169
Well… there are some routes near plantations, you bet you could find ponies to hunt here.
Still… you better be careful. Killing ponies could get you in a lot of trouble if you get caught.
>>452170
"I'm sure they're fine."
She happily trots along behind you.
"Plus I don't even know who you're talking about! I sure do know a lot of unicorns."
>>452187
You're cruising over the forest when you get slashed to the ground by something whip-like.
You turn and try to see what it is, but you must be disoriented, because you can't make it out. Something's confusing you.
Slash, slash!
Ouch!
Seekkill: 0/5h, 5/5w
What is this?!
>>452189
You start to float off the ground, and level off about counter height.
It's Bretty Gud, but the gimmick is the main attraction.
>>452190
"We might have some spare in the flock… it'd be… sixty bits, I'd say."
>>452191
"IT IS HARD TO BE A PARTY THAT LASTS FOREVER."
>>452195
She shrugs, and vanishes.
>>452196
"Then we need that magic declared and registered."
>>452198
Your weight shifts off your hooves and you float up to counter height.
The icecream flavor isn't bad, either. A little nutty, though.
>>452201
You locate it quickly. Persius was a bold, imposing explorer seadog.
You're cruising over the forest when you get slashed to the ground by something whip-like.
You turn and try to see what it is, but you must be disoriented, because you can't make it out. Something's confusing you.
Slash, slash!
Ouch!
Seekkill: 0/5h, 5/5w
What is this?!
>>452189
You start to float off the ground, and level off about counter height.
It's Bretty Gud, but the gimmick is the main attraction.
>>452190
"We might have some spare in the flock… it'd be… sixty bits, I'd say."
>>452191
"IT IS HARD TO BE A PARTY THAT LASTS FOREVER."
>>452195
She shrugs, and vanishes.
>>452196
"Then we need that magic declared and registered."
>>452198
Your weight shifts off your hooves and you float up to counter height.
The icecream flavor isn't bad, either. A little nutty, though.
>>452201
You locate it quickly. Persius was a bold, imposing explorer seadog.
>>452207
"We have to have a complete record. She initially claimed she didn't have any magical abilities at all. Her earlier deception makes it difficult to trust her."
>>452209
>>452210
You continue to get slashed up. Fortunately you start to get to a clearer view of this monster…
It's huge, and… tree-like. Stiff, brown epidermis… long, lashing branch-like arms.
>>452211
You slowly rotate mid-air like a balloon animal.
>>452212
You wander through a few curio shops. Mostly knittings and flags. Instruments are also common, particularly bowed string instruments and reed woodwinds.
>>452213
Beat**
"DEFINITIVELY."
>>452214
"It's magic. Also, I have no idea. I just sell the ice cream."
>>452217
40 bits.
He opens the door and gestures at the room. It's full of Black Jays which rotate their heads sharply to stare at you.
Caw
Caw
Caw, caw
"We have to have a complete record. She initially claimed she didn't have any magical abilities at all. Her earlier deception makes it difficult to trust her."
>>452209
>>452210
You continue to get slashed up. Fortunately you start to get to a clearer view of this monster…
It's huge, and… tree-like. Stiff, brown epidermis… long, lashing branch-like arms.
>>452211
You slowly rotate mid-air like a balloon animal.
>>452212
You wander through a few curio shops. Mostly knittings and flags. Instruments are also common, particularly bowed string instruments and reed woodwinds.
>>452213
Beat**
"DEFINITIVELY."
>>452214
"It's magic. Also, I have no idea. I just sell the ice cream."
>>452217
40 bits.
He opens the door and gestures at the room. It's full of Black Jays which rotate their heads sharply to stare at you.
Caw
Caw
Caw, caw
>>452517
The abbey is busy as a bee hive given that today is the Sun's day. This abbey houses both nuns and priests, and the abbey itself is split into two parts, each housing the different genders. You head into the eastern – female – wing.
Inside, there are a few nuns wandering about, fixing their habits, reading, and working on putting a self back up, which appears to have been knocked over.
>>452518
"TRADITIONALLY THE FOLLOWERS OF DIFFERENT DIVINES ENTER THEIR CIRCLES AFTER DEATH SOME HAVE DIFFICULT REQUIREMENTS BUT DISCORD ALLOWS ALL THAT FOLLOW HIM INTO HIS CIRCLE."
>>452519
"It would be unjust to imprison you for her sake. We're not propagating a hostage system, we just need to know what kind of magic she's bringing into the city. If she wants to stay on the ships, that's fine with us."
>>452649
Most of them stop cawing, but they still stare at you intently. You can detect a dangerous cunning in their eyes. These animals would be harder to command, but perhaps more worthwhile in what they can do.
The abbey is busy as a bee hive given that today is the Sun's day. This abbey houses both nuns and priests, and the abbey itself is split into two parts, each housing the different genders. You head into the eastern – female – wing.
Inside, there are a few nuns wandering about, fixing their habits, reading, and working on putting a self back up, which appears to have been knocked over.
>>452518
"TRADITIONALLY THE FOLLOWERS OF DIFFERENT DIVINES ENTER THEIR CIRCLES AFTER DEATH SOME HAVE DIFFICULT REQUIREMENTS BUT DISCORD ALLOWS ALL THAT FOLLOW HIM INTO HIS CIRCLE."
>>452519
"It would be unjust to imprison you for her sake. We're not propagating a hostage system, we just need to know what kind of magic she's bringing into the city. If she wants to stay on the ships, that's fine with us."
>>452649
Most of them stop cawing, but they still stare at you intently. You can detect a dangerous cunning in their eyes. These animals would be harder to command, but perhaps more worthwhile in what they can do.
>>452684
She wearily nods. "Yes, but she's a little excitable now… you'll have to leave if she gets worked up. Through that door, it's the second room on the left."
>>452689
"IT IS A SIMPLE YOU MUST ONLY ACCEPT HIS BLESSING WHICH I CAN ADMINISTER HOWEVER ONCE GIVEN IT IS DIFFICULT TO REMOVE AND I WILL NOT ASSIST YOU WITH IT ARE YOU PREPARED TO COMMIT?"
She wearily nods. "Yes, but she's a little excitable now… you'll have to leave if she gets worked up. Through that door, it's the second room on the left."
>>452689
"IT IS A SIMPLE YOU MUST ONLY ACCEPT HIS BLESSING WHICH I CAN ADMINISTER HOWEVER ONCE GIVEN IT IS DIFFICULT TO REMOVE AND I WILL NOT ASSIST YOU WITH IT ARE YOU PREPARED TO COMMIT?"
>>452700
You roll free, for now. It crashes through the growth, pursuing you.
Seekkill: 5/5h 3/5w
>>452702
It seems the abbey also serves as an impromptu hospital. You can see through the window that your niece is reading, and hasn't noticed you…
>>452707
"They are intelligent enough to take care of themselves, though they thrive best in a place with magic to consume."
>>452709
"A SPECIAL SORT OF TATTOO.
You roll free, for now. It crashes through the growth, pursuing you.
Seekkill: 5/5h 3/5w
>>452702
It seems the abbey also serves as an impromptu hospital. You can see through the window that your niece is reading, and hasn't noticed you…
>>452707
"They are intelligent enough to take care of themselves, though they thrive best in a place with magic to consume."
>>452709
"A SPECIAL SORT OF TATTOO.
>>452797
He treats your wings with some seltzer.
5/5, 5/5
>>452799
See, if you weren't the sort to say 'fucking', you could be enjoying yourself right now!
>>452800
"Yes."
>>452805
Most of them have entered the city of Dixie. Notably Seekkill is in the clinic, Curry and Felfire are at the end of the pier.
>>452810
"I wasn't there when it happened. If I was, I'd be…"
She looks like she's struggling.
He treats your wings with some seltzer.
5/5, 5/5
>>452799
See, if you weren't the sort to say 'fucking', you could be enjoying yourself right now!
>>452800
"Yes."
>>452805
Most of them have entered the city of Dixie. Notably Seekkill is in the clinic, Curry and Felfire are at the end of the pier.
>>452810
"I wasn't there when it happened. If I was, I'd be…"
She looks like she's struggling.
>>452827
Curry and Felfire are here, attracting the attention of the guards.
>>452828
He'll follow with you.
>>452830
No, she doesn't have visible injuries, though she does collapse without another word. She begins convulsing.
Happy Puzzle shoves you back. "Clear!"
And pounds on her chest with glowing hooves.
The convulsing slows and stops, and Glory continues breathing unevenly.
>>452837
"As long as they're not in town."
Curry and Felfire are here, attracting the attention of the guards.
>>452828
He'll follow with you.
>>452830
No, she doesn't have visible injuries, though she does collapse without another word. She begins convulsing.
Happy Puzzle shoves you back. "Clear!"
And pounds on her chest with glowing hooves.
The convulsing slows and stops, and Glory continues breathing unevenly.
>>452837
"As long as they're not in town."
>>452855
It's empty save for a couple guards.
>>452853
"I diagnose cardiac dysrhythmia!" She tells you cheerfully.
Glory is panting from her place in the bed.
>>452860
>>452862
You head down into the storm cellar. It's dark here, but a voice greets you.
"Ready to go? It's a bit of a walk."
>>452861
You feel him hold your hoof.
The female guard quickly runs her hooves up and down your torso and your front legs.
"You're clear. Enjoy your stay."
It's empty save for a couple guards.
>>452853
"I diagnose cardiac dysrhythmia!" She tells you cheerfully.
Glory is panting from her place in the bed.
>>452860
>>452862
You head down into the storm cellar. It's dark here, but a voice greets you.
"Ready to go? It's a bit of a walk."
>>452861
You feel him hold your hoof.
The female guard quickly runs her hooves up and down your torso and your front legs.
"You're clear. Enjoy your stay."
>>452878
You wander aimlessly for a while and find some ants swarming around a bottle of Dixie Barleywine.
>>452875
You sense a faint nod in the dark.
"Come on. Don't wanna be late."
He lights a lantern and begins to lead you off down the dark tunnels in the cellar. After what seems like an eternity, he stops at a dead end.
"This is where we dig."
>>452881
They nod.
"In the forest? That must have been a forest gump. If you see one, run from the forest, run. Gumps are dangerous."
You wander aimlessly for a while and find some ants swarming around a bottle of Dixie Barleywine.
>>452875
You sense a faint nod in the dark.
"Come on. Don't wanna be late."
He lights a lantern and begins to lead you off down the dark tunnels in the cellar. After what seems like an eternity, he stops at a dead end.
"This is where we dig."
>>452881
They nod.
"In the forest? That must have been a forest gump. If you see one, run from the forest, run. Gumps are dangerous."
>>452888
It seems to have rolled out of the clinic. Right, that doctor that drinks a lot.
The ants appear to be carpenter ants that have built a colony here.
>>452889
She begins sobbing a little.
"I was selfish too… mom always said you went to explore to find a way to cure yourself… and so I always hoped to see you again… so you could fix my broken heart."
>>452890
"You'll know it when it happens."
>>452895
You barely break the soil top, as he dives in.
>>452901
"Yes, that'll be all."
>>452897
"They're some sort of elemental made up of wood. The Black Jays seem to rile them because they house magic grubs that birds like to eat."
>>452903
You burrow through a layer and quickly find yourself in a very nice tiled room with a dirt ceiling and walls. It's lit by candles.
"So you arrive at last."
It seems to have rolled out of the clinic. Right, that doctor that drinks a lot.
The ants appear to be carpenter ants that have built a colony here.
>>452889
She begins sobbing a little.
"I was selfish too… mom always said you went to explore to find a way to cure yourself… and so I always hoped to see you again… so you could fix my broken heart."
>>452890
"You'll know it when it happens."
>>452895
You barely break the soil top, as he dives in.
>>452901
"Yes, that'll be all."
>>452897
"They're some sort of elemental made up of wood. The Black Jays seem to rile them because they house magic grubs that birds like to eat."
>>452903
You burrow through a layer and quickly find yourself in a very nice tiled room with a dirt ceiling and walls. It's lit by candles.
"So you arrive at last."
>>452910
I keep petting her mane softly.
"There are ways to cure it that I have heard from… but they tend to be either too crude, dangerous or only temporary solutions."
I pause for a moment.
"… The reason why I seem so young to you is because of age magic, my dearest niece. Age made matters worse for me, so some years were shaved off to counter that. How bad is your condition?"
I keep petting her mane softly.
"There are ways to cure it that I have heard from… but they tend to be either too crude, dangerous or only temporary solutions."
I pause for a moment.
"… The reason why I seem so young to you is because of age magic, my dearest niece. Age made matters worse for me, so some years were shaved off to counter that. How bad is your condition?"
>>452921
"Not bad yet… I guess you didn't know… because mine developed later than yours. But now… the abbess said the stress has made it worse…"
Happy Puzzle blows a party horn and throws some confetti. "Cheer up!"
>>452925
They are attempting to collect sugar crystals that have settled in the highly sugary Dixie Barleywine. Most of them are dead as a result of the alcohol content.
>>452926
You wander to a gazebo in town.
>>452930
>>452932
"I am the Count. This city is my prison, and you are going to help me escape. Listen closely: this will be a four dog operation. We are going to need records. First, I need a locksmith. A dog whose paws move in his sleep. He doesn't need brains, just a particular set of talents. Second, I need a creeper. A small dog that can contort and enter vents, reach hard to enter places. We will also need a lookout: somedog trained from youth to see danger around every corner. And lastly, a dog who cannot control his violent urges. I require a dog familiar with weapons. I do not expect loyalty, no, I expect criminals. What's mine, is yours, and Dixie is mine."
>>452931
You quickly locate the ice cream parlor.
"Not bad yet… I guess you didn't know… because mine developed later than yours. But now… the abbess said the stress has made it worse…"
Happy Puzzle blows a party horn and throws some confetti. "Cheer up!"
>>452925
They are attempting to collect sugar crystals that have settled in the highly sugary Dixie Barleywine. Most of them are dead as a result of the alcohol content.
>>452926
You wander to a gazebo in town.
>>452930
>>452932
"I am the Count. This city is my prison, and you are going to help me escape. Listen closely: this will be a four dog operation. We are going to need records. First, I need a locksmith. A dog whose paws move in his sleep. He doesn't need brains, just a particular set of talents. Second, I need a creeper. A small dog that can contort and enter vents, reach hard to enter places. We will also need a lookout: somedog trained from youth to see danger around every corner. And lastly, a dog who cannot control his violent urges. I require a dog familiar with weapons. I do not expect loyalty, no, I expect criminals. What's mine, is yours, and Dixie is mine."
>>452931
You quickly locate the ice cream parlor.
>>452939
"Sixteen bits. I'll let you have free samples of anything you like, though, so don't feel too pressed to guess right!"
The guy at the counter gives you a big smile.
>>452943
"It is mine by birthright. I intend to claim that right."
>>452942
"Riotous chaos and a rise of a new order."
>>452950
"Once I have gained control, they will all be yours. And though the future is littered with prizes, the one point I must emphasizes is you won't get a sniff without me."
>>452946
You dispose of the alcohol. Some swabbie will probably wash away the liquid.
>>452947
She sags. "I don't know what I need… my home is gone… I thought all my family was gone until now… The abbess won't even let me leave my room until I get better… I feel like my life is already over…"
"Sixteen bits. I'll let you have free samples of anything you like, though, so don't feel too pressed to guess right!"
The guy at the counter gives you a big smile.
>>452943
"It is mine by birthright. I intend to claim that right."
>>452942
"Riotous chaos and a rise of a new order."
>>452950
"Once I have gained control, they will all be yours. And though the future is littered with prizes, the one point I must emphasizes is you won't get a sniff without me."
>>452946
You dispose of the alcohol. Some swabbie will probably wash away the liquid.
>>452947
She sags. "I don't know what I need… my home is gone… I thought all my family was gone until now… The abbess won't even let me leave my room until I get better… I feel like my life is already over…"
>>452950
"We've got the classics – chocolate and vanilla. The fruits, strawberry, banana, apple, tobacco. And a couple magic flavors. That's a total of a whopping eight flavors – more than any ice cream parlor within a thousand leagues!"
>>452962
You pick the tobacco flavor.
"Sure thing."
He hands you a spoon of the light brown ice cream.
>>452965
"This is a safe place. But the bigger picture is unimportant, just follow my orders to the word."
>>452966
You wander for a bit and find a little crack in a mast.
>>452970
"What would I buy?"
>>452971
You wander around and find Felfire, Curry, Spring Water, and Summer Seas at an ice cream parlor.
"We've got the classics – chocolate and vanilla. The fruits, strawberry, banana, apple, tobacco. And a couple magic flavors. That's a total of a whopping eight flavors – more than any ice cream parlor within a thousand leagues!"
>>452962
You pick the tobacco flavor.
"Sure thing."
He hands you a spoon of the light brown ice cream.
>>452965
"This is a safe place. But the bigger picture is unimportant, just follow my orders to the word."
>>452966
You wander for a bit and find a little crack in a mast.
>>452970
"What would I buy?"
>>452971
You wander around and find Felfire, Curry, Spring Water, and Summer Seas at an ice cream parlor.
>>452995
He mixes up the Tobacco and Banana icecreams into one and passes the cup to you.
>>452996
>>452997
>>452979
"Very good. Now once we start, things will have to move quickly, are you prepared to act?"
>>452998
You wander around looking for a carpenter. Roll.
>>452999
Glory sighs.
"The abbess suggested I join the abbey. Maybe she's right, I won't find a husband with my condition and what has happened to the House of Belle…"
>>453000
"Well, I could show you some basics, but nothing advanced."
"To be honest, we were left behind to guard."
>>453002
"I have to give you this warning: you must stop eating immediately when you start to feel full, or you can cause internal damage."
He mixes up the Tobacco and Banana icecreams into one and passes the cup to you.
>>452996
>>452997
>>452979
"Very good. Now once we start, things will have to move quickly, are you prepared to act?"
>>452998
You wander around looking for a carpenter. Roll.
>>452999
Glory sighs.
"The abbess suggested I join the abbey. Maybe she's right, I won't find a husband with my condition and what has happened to the House of Belle…"
>>453000
"Well, I could show you some basics, but nothing advanced."
"To be honest, we were left behind to guard."
>>453002
"I have to give you this warning: you must stop eating immediately when you start to feel full, or you can cause internal damage."
>>453007
I laugh heartily.
"Oh Glory Belle my dear, please do not do that to yourself. When I was your age, I set off on my own to see the world on a quest to live my life to the fullest. A full decade has passed and I have seen so many wonders and horrors, you would not believe it. I found gold, friendship, love and freedom out there despite my own condition. Life has its ups and downs, there is no denying that, but you have to make sure that every time you go down… you climb upwards again."
I laugh heartily.
"Oh Glory Belle my dear, please do not do that to yourself. When I was your age, I set off on my own to see the world on a quest to live my life to the fullest. A full decade has passed and I have seen so many wonders and horrors, you would not believe it. I found gold, friendship, love and freedom out there despite my own condition. Life has its ups and downs, there is no denying that, but you have to make sure that every time you go down… you climb upwards again."
>>453010
It's like everything is below cotton, but I'll try it.
Your shadow nips at the ice cream.
The taste is faint, but I detect it…
>>453011
You grab a straggling carpenter.
"What is it?"
>>453012
"In short, yes. There's a very complicated answer if you want the exact truth, but let's not get into that. It's safe to eat, it just takes some time to stop expanding."
>>453013
You've heard of a lookout called Ruxiang who is apparently very skilled, but he's probably in town. There are also other marksponies on the fleet, also probably in town.
>>453014
"Free samples."
>>453016
She frowns. "They say that our condition is because further up the family tree…"
She pauses uncomfortably. "Everypony lay in the direct line of descent. No branches."
>>453017
>>453020
>>453009
"First, we will need a certain unicorn. Her name is Broomhilda, and she's on the Mather plantation. Break her out. Bring her here."
It's like everything is below cotton, but I'll try it.
Your shadow nips at the ice cream.
The taste is faint, but I detect it…
>>453011
You grab a straggling carpenter.
"What is it?"
>>453012
"In short, yes. There's a very complicated answer if you want the exact truth, but let's not get into that. It's safe to eat, it just takes some time to stop expanding."
>>453013
You've heard of a lookout called Ruxiang who is apparently very skilled, but he's probably in town. There are also other marksponies on the fleet, also probably in town.
>>453014
"Free samples."
>>453016
She frowns. "They say that our condition is because further up the family tree…"
She pauses uncomfortably. "Everypony lay in the direct line of descent. No branches."
>>453017
>>453020
>>453009
"First, we will need a certain unicorn. Her name is Broomhilda, and she's on the Mather plantation. Break her out. Bring her here."
>>453021
"Ah. So that was where those rumors the pastor mentioned came from."
I shrug.
"I do not care much for what happened in the far past. What matters is today and the days to come. I would very much hate to see you turn into a celibate nun, my dearest niece. You are capable of far greater things than that, I'm certain."
"Ah. So that was where those rumors the pastor mentioned came from."
I shrug.
"I do not care much for what happened in the far past. What matters is today and the days to come. I would very much hate to see you turn into a celibate nun, my dearest niece. You are capable of far greater things than that, I'm certain."
>>453024
"If you scoop out a sample, then wait for it to stop expanding, then scoop a piece off of it, then the sample won't expand anymore, so it won't fill you up."
>>453025
"Okay, we'll do it later."
>>453026
"You'll know her because her cutie mark is a mirror. The Mather plantation houses cotton, and it's the third off of the east road."
>>453027
"We don't know where she is on the plantation, but she is probably a house slave."
>>453028
He kisses your cheek instead. Which must look weird to a bystander because it is your shadow kissing you.
>>453030
"Alright."
>>453031
You stop by Immortal Emporium.
#Pause
"If you scoop out a sample, then wait for it to stop expanding, then scoop a piece off of it, then the sample won't expand anymore, so it won't fill you up."
>>453025
"Okay, we'll do it later."
>>453026
"You'll know her because her cutie mark is a mirror. The Mather plantation houses cotton, and it's the third off of the east road."
>>453027
"We don't know where she is on the plantation, but she is probably a house slave."
>>453028
He kisses your cheek instead. Which must look weird to a bystander because it is your shadow kissing you.
>>453030
"Alright."
>>453031
You stop by Immortal Emporium.
#Pause
>>453033
After you finish he goes into town.
>>453034
You enjoy your ice cream.
>>453035
You sample it. It tastes like vanilla and coconut.
>>453036
They stock everything from ore to weapons here. There are a variety of blades, including axes, swords, daggers, polearms, et al., and shields of different sizes and shapes.
>>453037
"Ah… okay…"
After you finish he goes into town.
>>453034
You enjoy your ice cream.
>>453035
You sample it. It tastes like vanilla and coconut.
>>453036
They stock everything from ore to weapons here. There are a variety of blades, including axes, swords, daggers, polearms, et al., and shields of different sizes and shapes.
>>453037
"Ah… okay…"
>>453384
Don't bother me with your advanced terminology!
"Good morning, abbess. Could I steal away a moment of your time? I am a traveler passing through your fair town and had heard about a pony named Glory Belle having been hospitalized. I… am an old friend of the family, so I was wondering what exactly happened to them. The Belle family, that is."
Don't bother me with your advanced terminology!
"Good morning, abbess. Could I steal away a moment of your time? I am a traveler passing through your fair town and had heard about a pony named Glory Belle having been hospitalized. I… am an old friend of the family, so I was wondering what exactly happened to them. The Belle family, that is."
>>453386
She frowns. "I won't have this vile rumor milling in my abbey. It's not Sunny to treat others like that. It's cruel."
>>453387
"There's a barber on Elm. You may find Kobold Iron at Immortal Emporium on Dove. They have odd metals sometimes."
>>453389
Finishing up the ice cream makes you float back up again.
She frowns. "I won't have this vile rumor milling in my abbey. It's not Sunny to treat others like that. It's cruel."
>>453387
"There's a barber on Elm. You may find Kobold Iron at Immortal Emporium on Dove. They have odd metals sometimes."
>>453389
Finishing up the ice cream makes you float back up again.
>>453391
"Oh, about that. The details aren't entirely clear, she doesn't like talking about it and I don't like making her talk about it. Most of her family either ran off or were killed by Loyalists, and I can't rightly speculate on what happened in that estate but I don't reckon there's much good in speculation."
>>453392
"The opposite. We require her as a bargaining chip, so it is critical you leave her unharmed."
"Oh, about that. The details aren't entirely clear, she doesn't like talking about it and I don't like making her talk about it. Most of her family either ran off or were killed by Loyalists, and I can't rightly speculate on what happened in that estate but I don't reckon there's much good in speculation."
>>453392
"The opposite. We require her as a bargaining chip, so it is critical you leave her unharmed."
>>453394
"Yes. Her aunt disappeared more than ten years ago, and her brother two or three. The Loyalists left their calling card on the corpses of the grandparents Belle. Who did you say you were again?"
>>453396
It does, and you sink.
>>453395
It's a quiet shop with some blades in the window. There's an old pony behind the counter.
"Well, well, bringing your son out to see the swords after church? That takes me back."
He gives you a smile.
>>453397
"That is unimportant. Do I need to replace you?"
"Yes. Her aunt disappeared more than ten years ago, and her brother two or three. The Loyalists left their calling card on the corpses of the grandparents Belle. Who did you say you were again?"
>>453396
It does, and you sink.
>>453395
It's a quiet shop with some blades in the window. There's an old pony behind the counter.
"Well, well, bringing your son out to see the swords after church? That takes me back."
He gives you a smile.
>>453397
"That is unimportant. Do I need to replace you?"
>>453400
"Two years… he would've been fifteen then, I think. In any case, I don't know his reasons, and I don't care to speculate, as you shouldn't."
>>453401
He waves you off.
>>453402
"A little, though it can be hard to get a hold of. How much do you need?"
>>453403
There actually IS a big trident in the corner. You tap it and the stand topples, knocking over a rack of weapons, an armor display, and smashing a glass case.
The shopkeeper facehoofs.
"Two years… he would've been fifteen then, I think. In any case, I don't know his reasons, and I don't care to speculate, as you shouldn't."
>>453401
He waves you off.
>>453402
"A little, though it can be hard to get a hold of. How much do you need?"
>>453403
There actually IS a big trident in the corner. You tap it and the stand topples, knocking over a rack of weapons, an armor display, and smashing a glass case.
The shopkeeper facehoofs.
>>453408
I nod again.
"Thank you abbess. You and your sisters. Thank you."
Be off, leave the abbey and turn to Happy Puzzle.
"Miss Happy Puzzle. I need you to gather my allies. All of them. Including the unicorns such as mister Curry and miss Skylight. Miss Rosemary, Onik, mister Wark, mister Stein, mister Sitar, miss Tela, miss Emrille… See if you can find others such as miss Felfire and mister Seekkill as well. And perhaps the diamond dogs mister Chip and Sateo. We will meet at the seaside. Not on the fleet."
I nod again.
"Thank you abbess. You and your sisters. Thank you."
Be off, leave the abbey and turn to Happy Puzzle.
"Miss Happy Puzzle. I need you to gather my allies. All of them. Including the unicorns such as mister Curry and miss Skylight. Miss Rosemary, Onik, mister Wark, mister Stein, mister Sitar, miss Tela, miss Emrille… See if you can find others such as miss Felfire and mister Seekkill as well. And perhaps the diamond dogs mister Chip and Sateo. We will meet at the seaside. Not on the fleet."
>>453415
The Fraternal Order of the Olive. In some circles, behind closed doors, they are called the "Witch Hunt". The brothers and sisters of this order exercise Special Privilege, which places them outside the bounds of hospitality and politeness. Named for the olive branch, protect Dixie from threats foreign and domestic. Their preferred means are preemptive.
You approach the chapter house, made of dark wood. It is on the edge of town, and sturdily built, like a small fortress. Your memory is hazy, but it seems bigger than when you left. Perhaps it underwent expansion efforts.
>>453417
"Kobold Iron is expensive. It'd be about a hundred bits."
That's 2 doubloons.
>>453416
"It is an intricate but important dance."
The Fraternal Order of the Olive. In some circles, behind closed doors, they are called the "Witch Hunt". The brothers and sisters of this order exercise Special Privilege, which places them outside the bounds of hospitality and politeness. Named for the olive branch, protect Dixie from threats foreign and domestic. Their preferred means are preemptive.
You approach the chapter house, made of dark wood. It is on the edge of town, and sturdily built, like a small fortress. Your memory is hazy, but it seems bigger than when you left. Perhaps it underwent expansion efforts.
>>453417
"Kobold Iron is expensive. It'd be about a hundred bits."
That's 2 doubloons.
>>453416
"It is an intricate but important dance."
>>453423
"An alchemist? If you're looking for surgical or dental services, there's a barber on Elm. For more general healing, the abbey is on the edge of town, out the Governor's Way."
>>453424
The Governor has probably returned to his office. As a local, you recall that the Governor is the most respected and lauded pony in all of Dixie. He also wields practically no actual political power, but he might be worth speaking to.
"An alchemist? If you're looking for surgical or dental services, there's a barber on Elm. For more general healing, the abbey is on the edge of town, out the Governor's Way."
>>453424
The Governor has probably returned to his office. As a local, you recall that the Governor is the most respected and lauded pony in all of Dixie. He also wields practically no actual political power, but he might be worth speaking to.
>>453426
You knock on his office door and a secretary opens it for you. He bounds over the desk, though, and greets you, outstretching a hoof.
You reach out to shake it, but he pulls you into a hug short hug, then holds you at leg's length and appreciates you.
"Well! If it isn't our own Liberty Belle, returned from the wild old world! But y'know you can take the pony out of Dixie, but ya can't take the Dixie out of a pony. Mighty good ta see ya, wish it were under better circumstances."
>>453427
He chuckles. "You might want to investigate our resident 'heathens'. Follow Swamp Road out west."
He makes the heathen remark playfully, not spitefully. As if there's some kind of funny inside joke.
You knock on his office door and a secretary opens it for you. He bounds over the desk, though, and greets you, outstretching a hoof.
You reach out to shake it, but he pulls you into a hug short hug, then holds you at leg's length and appreciates you.
"Well! If it isn't our own Liberty Belle, returned from the wild old world! But y'know you can take the pony out of Dixie, but ya can't take the Dixie out of a pony. Mighty good ta see ya, wish it were under better circumstances."
>>453427
He chuckles. "You might want to investigate our resident 'heathens'. Follow Swamp Road out west."
He makes the heathen remark playfully, not spitefully. As if there's some kind of funny inside joke.
>>453429
>>453430
You head down to Elm street and recognize the classic barber pole. Blue and red on a white staff.
You walk in the door, a little bell ringing as you do. A pony looks up from behind the counter. "Just a minute, I just finished my eight o'clock…"
There are chairs set up throughout the room, and medical and hair instruments everywhere.
>>453431
"Why, Liberty, you should know it's my job to know everypony. Now, come now, sit down, sit down. I'll have Gloria bring us some tea. GLORY! Some tea for the lady, if you please!"
"Right away, Mister Governor."
He practically leaps into his seat behind his desk and reclines in it. "Well, you came to the right place for your little visit. I'm terribly sorry to hear about the House of Belle, and I've already passed the hat around at the club. Until something can be done about the tarn, I've set aside a little cottage on Cotton Avenue for you and your sister."
>>453430
You head down to Elm street and recognize the classic barber pole. Blue and red on a white staff.
You walk in the door, a little bell ringing as you do. A pony looks up from behind the counter. "Just a minute, I just finished my eight o'clock…"
There are chairs set up throughout the room, and medical and hair instruments everywhere.
>>453431
"Why, Liberty, you should know it's my job to know everypony. Now, come now, sit down, sit down. I'll have Gloria bring us some tea. GLORY! Some tea for the lady, if you please!"
"Right away, Mister Governor."
He practically leaps into his seat behind his desk and reclines in it. "Well, you came to the right place for your little visit. I'm terribly sorry to hear about the House of Belle, and I've already passed the hat around at the club. Until something can be done about the tarn, I've set aside a little cottage on Cotton Avenue for you and your sister."
>>453436
"Well, yeah, but if I take enough wounds in a short enough amount of time, I can still die."
I'll tap the ground a little.
"Plus, that only works if I've got a connection to nature at hoof. Otherwise I'm shit outta luck."
>>453437
I'll just look from where I am. Never been in a barbershop before.
"Well, yeah, but if I take enough wounds in a short enough amount of time, I can still die."
I'll tap the ground a little.
"Plus, that only works if I've got a connection to nature at hoof. Otherwise I'm shit outta luck."
>>453437
I'll just look from where I am. Never been in a barbershop before.
>>453439
"I don't have anything poisonous. Well, except painkiller in high doses."
>>453438
He tuts at you. "Watch your tongue, colt."
>>453440
"Now I tell you, there is no evidence of that, at least just yet. Like I said, the tarn has made it difficult to pick anything out of the ruins, and we don't have the manpower right now. I spoke with the Olive boys, and they say there was an explosion, but they could tell you more than I could. But such matters aren't fit for a lady, I don't want to trouble your fragile heart."
The secretary sets down a couple of teas with lemon in front of you.
"I don't have anything poisonous. Well, except painkiller in high doses."
>>453438
He tuts at you. "Watch your tongue, colt."
>>453440
"Now I tell you, there is no evidence of that, at least just yet. Like I said, the tarn has made it difficult to pick anything out of the ruins, and we don't have the manpower right now. I spoke with the Olive boys, and they say there was an explosion, but they could tell you more than I could. But such matters aren't fit for a lady, I don't want to trouble your fragile heart."
The secretary sets down a couple of teas with lemon in front of you.
>>453445
"Well, as you know, the tarn around the House of Belle was a natural fortification back in the day. But whatever calamity took place, the whole island seems to have sunk into the tarn itself. The mansion isn't even visible anymore. The only one who knows what may have happened is a friend of the family that was visiting at the time, but I'm afraid he's quite mad. He would be your… brother-in-law? The brother of Charity's husband, Gentile."
>>453446
Looks like he doesn't stock anything like that.
"Well, as you know, the tarn around the House of Belle was a natural fortification back in the day. But whatever calamity took place, the whole island seems to have sunk into the tarn itself. The mansion isn't even visible anymore. The only one who knows what may have happened is a friend of the family that was visiting at the time, but I'm afraid he's quite mad. He would be your… brother-in-law? The brother of Charity's husband, Gentile."
>>453446
Looks like he doesn't stock anything like that.
>>453448
>>453449
You wander down Swamp Road, and as you progress, the road slowly deteriorates into nothingness. The forest have given way to swamp, and vines hang from the trees en masse.
>>453450
"He's holed up in the family house. It'll be 14 Grove Street. I'm warning you now, he's harmless left alone, but if you go in there, he may not be stable."
>>453449
You wander down Swamp Road, and as you progress, the road slowly deteriorates into nothingness. The forest have given way to swamp, and vines hang from the trees en masse.
>>453450
"He's holed up in the family house. It'll be 14 Grove Street. I'm warning you now, he's harmless left alone, but if you go in there, he may not be stable."
>>453453
>>453452
You try talking to a tree, when it uproots and attacks you. Oh boy: this must be one of the forest gumps those leather ponies mentioned.
Swings at you in a rage!
>>453454
"That's just terrible, darlin'. I can tell you, if it were in my power, I'd fix those hearts up right now. Who knows why the Sun creates us like it does, but I tell you I'm sure there's a reason."
>>453452
You try talking to a tree, when it uproots and attacks you. Oh boy: this must be one of the forest gumps those leather ponies mentioned.
Swings at you in a rage!
>>453454
"That's just terrible, darlin'. I can tell you, if it were in my power, I'd fix those hearts up right now. Who knows why the Sun creates us like it does, but I tell you I'm sure there's a reason."
>>453469
Yes. Curry and Felfire came and went.
>>453468
You trot down the trail, following some faded hoofprints, and eventually see some wooden structures in the distance.
>>453467
"Oh, some pagan sheep out in the swamp living with nature and what have you. They may be a bit odd but like I said, they're mostly harmless. Ponies take 'em fer witches but that's unneighborly."
Yes. Curry and Felfire came and went.
>>453468
You trot down the trail, following some faded hoofprints, and eventually see some wooden structures in the distance.
>>453467
"Oh, some pagan sheep out in the swamp living with nature and what have you. They may be a bit odd but like I said, they're mostly harmless. Ponies take 'em fer witches but that's unneighborly."
>>453471
I nod as I finish my tea.
"How intriguing. I believe I shall pay them a visit too. With your blessing, I believe I should be on my way again. Time is not a thing I have in abundance, unfortunately, and there are so many more things for me to do. Thank you for the tea nonetheless Governor. It was absolutely lovely."
I nod as I finish my tea.
"How intriguing. I believe I shall pay them a visit too. With your blessing, I believe I should be on my way again. Time is not a thing I have in abundance, unfortunately, and there are so many more things for me to do. Thank you for the tea nonetheless Governor. It was absolutely lovely."
In the time before we landed, an old horse hopes to learn a new trick or two.
"All those Hamburgerburgians were busy preparing for Dixie, it doesn't feel right asking them for lessons right now. Maybe someone else? Maybe I can find that Pegasus filly with the guns."
I'll head off towards the deck, maybe she's up there or I can ask around.
"All those Hamburgerburgians were busy preparing for Dixie, it doesn't feel right asking them for lessons right now. Maybe someone else? Maybe I can find that Pegasus filly with the guns."
I'll head off towards the deck, maybe she's up there or I can ask around.
>>453922
"Sorry, it just happened that the Hamburgergurgians offered to build me one, I was trying to get my crossbow fixed, but it might have to wait till Dixie. How about if you walk me through the proper operation of it, just so I know how to handle it."
"And if you don't mind me asking, where did you learn to use these weapons?"
"Sorry, it just happened that the Hamburgergurgians offered to build me one, I was trying to get my crossbow fixed, but it might have to wait till Dixie. How about if you walk me through the proper operation of it, just so I know how to handle it."
"And if you don't mind me asking, where did you learn to use these weapons?"
>>453928
"He let me know that it was probably going to be a rifle, since I asked for range and accuracy. Like I said before, I can't handle a knife fight at my age. Or any other type of fight for that matter."
"As for me, the reason I got the crossbow is because of this here horn. I wasn't the stoutest lad the group I joined took n, but with their training, it didn't matter. Strength and speed didn't count for much if I could put them down even past 100 yards."
"He let me know that it was probably going to be a rifle, since I asked for range and accuracy. Like I said before, I can't handle a knife fight at my age. Or any other type of fight for that matter."
"As for me, the reason I got the crossbow is because of this here horn. I wasn't the stoutest lad the group I joined took n, but with their training, it didn't matter. Strength and speed didn't count for much if I could put them down even past 100 yards."
>>453935
"Now now, take the starch out of that tone, because I don't think she'd appreciate that much. We're in a dangerous business, so I hope you get her something nice while we're docked even if she doesn't mind hearing those words from you."
"You mentioned age magic when I first met you, and now hearing about your rifle reminded me of it, but do you have any ideas on when you might get it reversed or if it wears off?"
"Now now, take the starch out of that tone, because I don't think she'd appreciate that much. We're in a dangerous business, so I hope you get her something nice while we're docked even if she doesn't mind hearing those words from you."
"You mentioned age magic when I first met you, and now hearing about your rifle reminded me of it, but do you have any ideas on when you might get it reversed or if it wears off?"
>>453938
"Shooting shit.
This mark represent shooting shit with magic, so it's a step up."
Then point at stuff on the gun.
"This is the butt and the stock.
This is the main course, the reciever, with all the stuff going on here. Mine has all this fancy shit carved in it so I can cast magic. Your one probably won't have this.
That's the cock, that's how you arm it, or there's a bolt on the side if it's that kind of rifle.
That's the chamber. Ammo goes there.
Trigger with the trigger guard. That's how you make it go off.
That's the barrel, and the sights and scopes are on top.
The end of that is the muzzle, that's where bullets come out of. Keep that shit away from things you don't want to harm.
Is that all clear so far?"
"Shooting shit.
This mark represent shooting shit with magic, so it's a step up."
Then point at stuff on the gun.
"This is the butt and the stock.
This is the main course, the reciever, with all the stuff going on here. Mine has all this fancy shit carved in it so I can cast magic. Your one probably won't have this.
That's the cock, that's how you arm it, or there's a bolt on the side if it's that kind of rifle.
That's the chamber. Ammo goes there.
Trigger with the trigger guard. That's how you make it go off.
That's the barrel, and the sights and scopes are on top.
The end of that is the muzzle, that's where bullets come out of. Keep that shit away from things you don't want to harm.
Is that all clear so far?"
>>453939
"Except for parts of the chamber and barrel, most of this compares to my crossbow, so I don't have too much issue with it so far."
"But now you're making me feel inadequate. I have decades of experience on you, but my stamp is just some books and quills I got from my love of reading in my early days."
"Except for parts of the chamber and barrel, most of this compares to my crossbow, so I don't have too much issue with it so far."
"But now you're making me feel inadequate. I have decades of experience on you, but my stamp is just some books and quills I got from my love of reading in my early days."
>>453940
"Good.
Since I don't want you shooting yourself in the leg, y'know, because I know of a loser who did, tell me the safety rules and shit you know. Maybe it's the same for the crossbow.
And don't feel too bad. I was born to handle guns. Been doing it ever since I got one. No wonder I got a mark in it."
"Good.
Since I don't want you shooting yourself in the leg, y'know, because I know of a loser who did, tell me the safety rules and shit you know. Maybe it's the same for the crossbow.
And don't feel too bad. I was born to handle guns. Been doing it ever since I got one. No wonder I got a mark in it."
>>453941
Let me clear my throat.
"Know exactly where the arrow will hit before you pull the trigger (practice, practice, practice).
Never walk or climb a tree with a crossbow cocked and loaded with an arrow.
Keep your fingers and thumb down on the crossbow forearm out of the path of travel for the string and cables.
Always identify your target and background before you shoot.
Never shoot if there is a doubt about the shot."
"So, how much of that carries over?"
Let me clear my throat.
"Know exactly where the arrow will hit before you pull the trigger (practice, practice, practice).
Never walk or climb a tree with a crossbow cocked and loaded with an arrow.
Keep your fingers and thumb down on the crossbow forearm out of the path of travel for the string and cables.
Always identify your target and background before you shoot.
Never shoot if there is a doubt about the shot."
"So, how much of that carries over?"
>>453942
"The background one, but I don't really give a shit about that, or the 'pointing it at others' for that matter. You probably know those.
But with guns, if you don't want to cause yourself and those around you a disaster, remember these.
Always, all the fucking time handle a gun like if it was loaded. Even if it's empty, you'll handle it like it could blow some brains out.
And the other, you never even tickle the trigger unless you want it to go off. The only ever time you touch it is if you want to pull it."
"The background one, but I don't really give a shit about that, or the 'pointing it at others' for that matter. You probably know those.
But with guns, if you don't want to cause yourself and those around you a disaster, remember these.
Always, all the fucking time handle a gun like if it was loaded. Even if it's empty, you'll handle it like it could blow some brains out.
And the other, you never even tickle the trigger unless you want it to go off. The only ever time you touch it is if you want to pull it."
>>453943
"The projectile is different, but I'm up to snuff to those rules, since they carry to my crossbow too. Since we have those down, how exactly do I hold this weapon, since I'm guessing it'll be a bit different than the way I hold my crossbow."
"What's happened with that Curry fellow I saw you talking with in Reptil? I haven't seen him around with all this work I've had except when I helped him move that tank."
"The projectile is different, but I'm up to snuff to those rules, since they carry to my crossbow too. Since we have those down, how exactly do I hold this weapon, since I'm guessing it'll be a bit different than the way I hold my crossbow."
"What's happened with that Curry fellow I saw you talking with in Reptil? I haven't seen him around with all this work I've had except when I helped him move that tank."
>>453946
Narrow my eyes.
"Me is the only part of a family I will ever fucking need. Now shut the fuck up and listen."
"If your horn gets busted, hoist it on something, but I doubt it will. And I don't use my hooves either.
Pick it up with your magic, bring it to your head, and press your cheek to the stock.
And be fucking careful with it! You ruin it I ruin you!"
Narrow my eyes.
"Me is the only part of a family I will ever fucking need. Now shut the fuck up and listen."
"If your horn gets busted, hoist it on something, but I doubt it will. And I don't use my hooves either.
Pick it up with your magic, bring it to your head, and press your cheek to the stock.
And be fucking careful with it! You ruin it I ruin you!"
>>453952
"Don't pull the trigger, squeeze it. Like it was a clit, be gentle with it! On that line, keep the pressure on it even after you fire, and don't just let it go instantly. See, just like it was a mare."
Smirk.
"Oh and don't anticipate the gun going off and the recoil. Surprise yourself."
"Don't pull the trigger, squeeze it. Like it was a clit, be gentle with it! On that line, keep the pressure on it even after you fire, and don't just let it go instantly. See, just like it was a mare."
Smirk.
"Oh and don't anticipate the gun going off and the recoil. Surprise yourself."
>>453956
"It's my first time using one, and my hold isn't what it used to be at my age. But it's a learning experience, probably did the same when they handed me the crossbow. Gotta respect its difference. Let me try again, but with more of a hold this time."
Second show [1d10+2]
Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12
"It's my first time using one, and my hold isn't what it used to be at my age. But it's a learning experience, probably did the same when they handed me the crossbow. Gotta respect its difference. Let me try again, but with more of a hold this time."
Second show [1d10+2]
Roll #1 10 + 2 = 12
>>453960
"That is nice. And the ammunition is much lighter for this than my crossbow. Shame I can't stab people with it."
"Well then, let me take a few more shots and practice reloading it a bit. Bit of a question for you, since you've used both of these, which do you prefer, the rifle or the pistol?"
"That is nice. And the ammunition is much lighter for this than my crossbow. Shame I can't stab people with it."
"Well then, let me take a few more shots and practice reloading it a bit. Bit of a question for you, since you've used both of these, which do you prefer, the rifle or the pistol?"
>>453969
"Barely above the quality of slop you get in most places, but yes. It's a good selling point when joining a crew, since they can hire one pony to do multiple jobs. But I've really ignited my passion since joining your crew. You have a wonderful chef here, and I hope to learn something under his tutelage if I get the chance."
"But I have to be worthy of joining him there, so I need to improve my abilities at making food, do I'd like you to try some. How about some vegetable stew, just to get warmed up if you want to take your gun apart."
"Barely above the quality of slop you get in most places, but yes. It's a good selling point when joining a crew, since they can hire one pony to do multiple jobs. But I've really ignited my passion since joining your crew. You have a wonderful chef here, and I hope to learn something under his tutelage if I get the chance."
"But I have to be worthy of joining him there, so I need to improve my abilities at making food, do I'd like you to try some. How about some vegetable stew, just to get warmed up if you want to take your gun apart."
>>454053
"I intend to find out who exactly was responsible, yes, as well as the reason why. Once I know this, I will annihilate the ones responsible. If not today, then some other day when I have gathered the necessary resources."
>>454054
"They were burned alive in my old home, the house of Belle. According to the local abbess, a group called 'The Loyalists' were responsible for this."
"I intend to find out who exactly was responsible, yes, as well as the reason why. Once I know this, I will annihilate the ones responsible. If not today, then some other day when I have gathered the necessary resources."
>>454054
"They were burned alive in my old home, the house of Belle. According to the local abbess, a group called 'The Loyalists' were responsible for this."
>>454069
"I would rather not suffer a heartattack at this time, Tela. Rest assured that I am sufficiently upset however."
>>454071
I nod.
"Thank you, miss Emrille. I knew I could count on you if needed. I must request that you keep this matter to yourself for the time being. The less ponies know about this, the better. And if you hear anything in town about House Belle… please tell me."
"I would rather not suffer a heartattack at this time, Tela. Rest assured that I am sufficiently upset however."
>>454071
I nod.
"Thank you, miss Emrille. I knew I could count on you if needed. I must request that you keep this matter to yourself for the time being. The less ponies know about this, the better. And if you hear anything in town about House Belle… please tell me."
>>454130
I guess this will have to do. As long as none of the locals or other crew is nearby. Smitts will probably know about it but I don't care.
"Is everypony who could make it here? Excellent. Time is rather short, so I will try to keep this brief. As you all know, I was born and raised in Dixie by my family until I left at the tender age of eighteen, looking for greener pastures. Today was the first day in ten years I set hoof on this soil once again, and the years have not been kind to my family."
I pause for a moment.
"My sister, my parents, my brother-in-law… all of them have found their demise in the last decade. They were murdered and I intent to find out why and by whom exactly. From what I understand, a group called 'the Loyalists' were the ones responsible for the death of my parents, but I cannot be entirely sure about this yet. My nephew left a few years back for reasons unknown to me, but I cannot help but feel that he did not so much as leave as he was taken away."
I hesitate briefly before continuing.
"You all know me as Light Heart, but that is not the name I was given at birth. It is a name I adopted myself as a stage name at first, then as the name I would carry for as long as I was abroad. I did this to protect my family and ensure they remained clean of any stains I would make on my name. Nobility and… my current occupation is not something that blends well and I did not wish for harm to come to my family for any sins I would make. As such, I expect absolute discretion from all of you."
I guess this will have to do. As long as none of the locals or other crew is nearby. Smitts will probably know about it but I don't care.
"Is everypony who could make it here? Excellent. Time is rather short, so I will try to keep this brief. As you all know, I was born and raised in Dixie by my family until I left at the tender age of eighteen, looking for greener pastures. Today was the first day in ten years I set hoof on this soil once again, and the years have not been kind to my family."
I pause for a moment.
"My sister, my parents, my brother-in-law… all of them have found their demise in the last decade. They were murdered and I intent to find out why and by whom exactly. From what I understand, a group called 'the Loyalists' were the ones responsible for the death of my parents, but I cannot be entirely sure about this yet. My nephew left a few years back for reasons unknown to me, but I cannot help but feel that he did not so much as leave as he was taken away."
I hesitate briefly before continuing.
"You all know me as Light Heart, but that is not the name I was given at birth. It is a name I adopted myself as a stage name at first, then as the name I would carry for as long as I was abroad. I did this to protect my family and ensure they remained clean of any stains I would make on my name. Nobility and… my current occupation is not something that blends well and I did not wish for harm to come to my family for any sins I would make. As such, I expect absolute discretion from all of you."
>>454132
"I'll whistle, like this."
In a moment of mental confusion, you put on a bright pink party hat. Where did this even come from?
>>454131
That forest gump followed you back.
It's pissed.
>>454133
There are a few nods all around.
Sitar seems pretty out of it.
Wark seems surprisingly impressed.
Rosemary and Skylight seem concerned.
Onik appears neutral.
Stein seems apprehensive.
>>454134
It's a male.
He gives you a weird look. "Uh. You too."
>>454135
You don't know anything about stealth, but you pull the pink hat off.
"I'll whistle, like this."
In a moment of mental confusion, you put on a bright pink party hat. Where did this even come from?
>>454131
That forest gump followed you back.
It's pissed.
>>454133
There are a few nods all around.
Sitar seems pretty out of it.
Wark seems surprisingly impressed.
Rosemary and Skylight seem concerned.
Onik appears neutral.
Stein seems apprehensive.
>>454134
It's a male.
He gives you a weird look. "Uh. You too."
>>454135
You don't know anything about stealth, but you pull the pink hat off.
>>454136
"Good. I have a few leads as it stands. First and foremost, Gentile, the brother of my brother-in-law and friend of the family may know valuable information. Unfortunately I have received word that he has gone… mad. Still, it may be a lead worth pursuing. Secondly, my nephew Chivalry Belle is rumored to live together with a group of pagan sheep living in the forests outside Dixie. Thirdly, the Loyalists. They burned my parents alive and while I seek vengeance for this horrendous act, I also seek to find out why it happened in the first place. Thirdly there is the House of Belle, our mansion located in Dixie. It was burned down and sank into a tarn. Still, there may be clues present here that could be very useful."
"Good. I have a few leads as it stands. First and foremost, Gentile, the brother of my brother-in-law and friend of the family may know valuable information. Unfortunately I have received word that he has gone… mad. Still, it may be a lead worth pursuing. Secondly, my nephew Chivalry Belle is rumored to live together with a group of pagan sheep living in the forests outside Dixie. Thirdly, the Loyalists. They burned my parents alive and while I seek vengeance for this horrendous act, I also seek to find out why it happened in the first place. Thirdly there is the House of Belle, our mansion located in Dixie. It was burned down and sank into a tarn. Still, there may be clues present here that could be very useful."
File: 1374598909269.png (6.73 KB, 705x259, family tree.png, IO Google TinEye)
>>454141
There are a lot of sheep here, going about their business. Most of them have tribal markings on their wool.
Though huts and shacks of the residential sort are the most predominant, they do seem to have a small trading post and apothecary, as well as what appears to be a bar or restaurant.
>>454142
Similar reactions.
Also you made a minor mistake. Gentile is your brother-in-law, whereas Usher is the mad pony (who was not referred to by name), also technically your brother-in-law.
There are a lot of sheep here, going about their business. Most of them have tribal markings on their wool.
Though huts and shacks of the residential sort are the most predominant, they do seem to have a small trading post and apothecary, as well as what appears to be a bar or restaurant.
>>454142
Similar reactions.
Also you made a minor mistake. Gentile is your brother-in-law, whereas Usher is the mad pony (who was not referred to by name), also technically your brother-in-law.
>>454149
I thought you were waiting on Sateo?
You leave the Count's dwelling and head back through the tunnels, back up into town, then out down the road, until finally you see the plantation.
>>454148
You step into the apothecary, ducking slightly to avoid bumping your head on the low door.
"Welcome, traveler. You seek me help?"
I thought you were waiting on Sateo?
You leave the Count's dwelling and head back through the tunnels, back up into town, then out down the road, until finally you see the plantation.
>>454148
You step into the apothecary, ducking slightly to avoid bumping your head on the low door.
"Welcome, traveler. You seek me help?"
>>454146
"Lastly there is my niece Glory Belle, who is currently being treated for her… condition. Her heart is as unstable as mine and the stress of losing her parents, brother and grandparents has not been gentle on it. Now, I would like to start out with finding my nephew somewhere in the woods. This is a purely personal matter so none of you are obligated to help if you do not wish to. Any volunteers?"
"Lastly there is my niece Glory Belle, who is currently being treated for her… condition. Her heart is as unstable as mine and the stress of losing her parents, brother and grandparents has not been gentle on it. Now, I would like to start out with finding my nephew somewhere in the woods. This is a purely personal matter so none of you are obligated to help if you do not wish to. Any volunteers?"
>>454151
Happy Puzzle chimes in, "Ooh, ooh, I'll help!"
Then she gives you a dark look. "But we need to have a serious talk soon. In private."
Sitar stumbles by and pats you on the shoulder. "I'll do it. I'm feeling my groove."
Stein nods. "I can put aside a day of work to help mit ze search."
Onik remarks, "I'd like to spend the day in town, since I wont have a chance to check it out again."
Wark adds, "I'll come if ye insist, but I've got a bad feelin' about this city… coming from the west. In that swamp."
Skylight frowns. "I'd very much like to be there to help, but I'm seriously concerned that I might be more of a hindrance. I know how the locals feel about Celestials."
Rosemary adds: "I'll come! I… just need to find somepony to watch Red and Grey…"
>>454153
Yes.
"I have heard of such a mushroom… Tube Mushroom, from Equestrian north. We do not have it here, though. It is hardy, but does not grow outside of cold environment."
Happy Puzzle chimes in, "Ooh, ooh, I'll help!"
Then she gives you a dark look. "But we need to have a serious talk soon. In private."
Sitar stumbles by and pats you on the shoulder. "I'll do it. I'm feeling my groove."
Stein nods. "I can put aside a day of work to help mit ze search."
Onik remarks, "I'd like to spend the day in town, since I wont have a chance to check it out again."
Wark adds, "I'll come if ye insist, but I've got a bad feelin' about this city… coming from the west. In that swamp."
Skylight frowns. "I'd very much like to be there to help, but I'm seriously concerned that I might be more of a hindrance. I know how the locals feel about Celestials."
Rosemary adds: "I'll come! I… just need to find somepony to watch Red and Grey…"
>>454153
Yes.
"I have heard of such a mushroom… Tube Mushroom, from Equestrian north. We do not have it here, though. It is hardy, but does not grow outside of cold environment."
>>454154
"In that case… miss Happy Puzzle, mister Stein and Sitar can join me to search the swamp. Once we have found my nephew, we will return and regroup with the rest of you. For the time being, the others may do as they please. If you hear anything in town at all that may help with this matter, please do inform me."
I smile at all of them.
"And thank you. All of you. Your support is very much appreciated. Are there any further questions at all?"
"In that case… miss Happy Puzzle, mister Stein and Sitar can join me to search the swamp. Once we have found my nephew, we will return and regroup with the rest of you. For the time being, the others may do as they please. If you hear anything in town at all that may help with this matter, please do inform me."
I smile at all of them.
"And thank you. All of you. Your support is very much appreciated. Are there any further questions at all?"
>>454162
"You treat me differently just because I was born a ninja, don't you? Well I'm a doctor that just happens to be a ninja! I don't want you to treat me differently because of something I can't control!"
>>454163
"Dung, ground bones, arrow frog, poison cone. May contain trace amounts of nuts."
He grins. Apparently this was supposed to be immensely funny.
>>454164
She's long gone for LH's conference.
"You treat me differently just because I was born a ninja, don't you? Well I'm a doctor that just happens to be a ninja! I don't want you to treat me differently because of something I can't control!"
>>454163
"Dung, ground bones, arrow frog, poison cone. May contain trace amounts of nuts."
He grins. Apparently this was supposed to be immensely funny.
>>454164
She's long gone for LH's conference.
>>454174
Your trip down Swamp Road is long but uneventful. You arrive at a small town of shacks populated by sheep.
>>454173
"There's metal in everything."
Another toothy grin.
>>454172
"Well, they're very fine instruments, but I can show you one or two…"
Your trip down Swamp Road is long but uneventful. You arrive at a small town of shacks populated by sheep.
>>454173
"There's metal in everything."
Another toothy grin.
>>454172
"Well, they're very fine instruments, but I can show you one or two…"
Ornate Scope: 50 bits
This scope is pretty, but functionally does little for your gun. +1 Gilded Shot.
Magnified Scope: 200 bits
This scope helps you zoom in for when you've really got to hit a target. +1 Marksman Shot.>>454176
"What do ya mean? We're in da middle of da city."
>>454177
It's quite busy. There is singing from the fields.
>>454178
Most of them are residences, but there are three "shops". A trading post, an apothecary, and a restaurant. The locals seem to mostly ignore you. They are sheep with tribal markings, like Terrebonne's.
"What do ya mean? We're in da middle of da city."
>>454177
It's quite busy. There is singing from the fields.
>>454178
Most of them are residences, but there are three "shops". A trading post, an apothecary, and a restaurant. The locals seem to mostly ignore you. They are sheep with tribal markings, like Terrebonne's.
File: 1374745840050.png (8.58 KB, 500x442, layout.png, IO Google TinEye)
>>455202
You reach into the hat to pull something out. You feel a sharp snap and pain, and your whole leg goes limp. You pull your hoof out with your mouth, finding it still attached… but oh no! The string was snapped off!
You reach into the hat to pull something out. You feel a sharp snap and pain, and your whole leg goes limp. You pull your hoof out with your mouth, finding it still attached… but oh no! The string was snapped off!
>>455214
"Only one pony lives out here… what's your cousin's name?"
>>455215
Your hoof is still disconnected, and you can't see the strings anymore.
You could go back if you could reproduce that symbol you saw… It's a symbol that is completely indescribable. If you tried, you'd fail. There are absolutely no words that can communicate its aspects. Well, just these: The Ineffable Symbol.
>>455216
You head out south, Stein and Sitar in tow. Puzzle is probably about somewhere.
You arrive at the lake. It's something of a fishing village: sheep are lazily casting nets and lines into the water, which is fed by a river from the sea. There is sugar cane growing on the sandy shores with only slight irrigation. It seems a peaceful, simple life here.
"Only one pony lives out here… what's your cousin's name?"
>>455215
Your hoof is still disconnected, and you can't see the strings anymore.
You could go back if you could reproduce that symbol you saw… It's a symbol that is completely indescribable. If you tried, you'd fail. There are absolutely no words that can communicate its aspects. Well, just these: The Ineffable Symbol.
>>455216
You head out south, Stein and Sitar in tow. Puzzle is probably about somewhere.
You arrive at the lake. It's something of a fishing village: sheep are lazily casting nets and lines into the water, which is fed by a river from the sea. There is sugar cane growing on the sandy shores with only slight irrigation. It seems a peaceful, simple life here.
>>455227
You are not a very cute pone.
"I'm sorry little lady. It'll have to be with your parents' permission or full price."
>>455228
"Who are you… talking like that… a memory starts… you make me think of a mare… She disappeared…"
There's silence from within the shack for a time. "Forgive me miss, I do not dare."
You are not a very cute pone.
"I'm sorry little lady. It'll have to be with your parents' permission or full price."
>>455228
"Who are you… talking like that… a memory starts… you make me think of a mare… She disappeared…"
There's silence from within the shack for a time. "Forgive me miss, I do not dare."
>>455238
Font in charge of working.
You are blasted back as the shack explodes with force.
Bees. Everywhere. You open your mouth to gasp, but quickly shut it before bees can swarm inside.
"SO YOU'VE COME FOR ME AT LAST!"
Swarmlord Chivalry Belle
De Jure Heir, House Belle
Though he's only sixteen, this stallion looks ragged and insane. Bees and honey cover much of his body.
"I KNEW IT!"
>>455237
Eventually you stop at a nice statue of a diamond dog. Gee, that seems a little out of place.
Font in charge of working.
You are blasted back as the shack explodes with force.
Bees. Everywhere. You open your mouth to gasp, but quickly shut it before bees can swarm inside.
"SO YOU'VE COME FOR ME AT LAST!"
Swarmlord Chivalry Belle
De Jure Heir, House Belle
Though he's only sixteen, this stallion looks ragged and insane. Bees and honey cover much of his body.
"I KNEW IT!"
>>455237
Eventually you stop at a nice statue of a diamond dog. Gee, that seems a little out of place.
>>455240
Apparently he was a great explorer named Perseus. He was responsible for the founding of Dixie originally, in the name of the foreign land of Novdogod.
>>455241
The cloud of bees overtakes you, surrounding you on all sides. You can't see, you can't breathe! Your heart is racing! Stinging everywhere! You try to scream for help, but soon you black out.
… Where… are you? Are you dead?
…Ugh. No… this hurts too much to be death. You have sores all over your body… it's cold and clammy here…
Your heart… your heart! Well… you're stable for now… How did you survive the attack? Rubbing your face with a hoof, you pull yourself slightly erect. Mud covers the half of your face that was languishing in it… it's dark here, but you hear dripping. Somewhere in front of you, you see a square of light. And… that buzzing is ever-present.
Apparently he was a great explorer named Perseus. He was responsible for the founding of Dixie originally, in the name of the foreign land of Novdogod.
>>455241
The cloud of bees overtakes you, surrounding you on all sides. You can't see, you can't breathe! Your heart is racing! Stinging everywhere! You try to scream for help, but soon you black out.
… Where… are you? Are you dead?
…Ugh. No… this hurts too much to be death. You have sores all over your body… it's cold and clammy here…
Your heart… your heart! Well… you're stable for now… How did you survive the attack? Rubbing your face with a hoof, you pull yourself slightly erect. Mud covers the half of your face that was languishing in it… it's dark here, but you hear dripping. Somewhere in front of you, you see a square of light. And… that buzzing is ever-present.
>>455248
The head shakes urgently, then vanishes, leaving the light to cast back into your little room.
It's a sort of… make shift cell. Like a little alcove in a cave that has had a heavy door fastened to it.
>>455249
A church of the sun. Important distinction: they do not worship Celestia. They follow the Old Faith that was once popular in the Equestrian North, where the sun itself is worshiped in lieu of the princess.
>>455250
You are sure it involved words and vocal chords.
The head shakes urgently, then vanishes, leaving the light to cast back into your little room.
It's a sort of… make shift cell. Like a little alcove in a cave that has had a heavy door fastened to it.
>>455249
A church of the sun. Important distinction: they do not worship Celestia. They follow the Old Faith that was once popular in the Equestrian North, where the sun itself is worshiped in lieu of the princess.
>>455250
You are sure it involved words and vocal chords.
"Well, we diced up all this fruit, but there's not enough for a plate, just a stick!"
In their defense, they do have a large variety.
Apples, oranges, pineapple, plums, grapes, cherries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapefruit, dragonfruit, banana, lemon, lime, tangerine, pomegranate, and more.
>>455264
"I can't find a key… I think he has it. But maybe it could be pried open…"
In their defense, they do have a large variety.
Apples, oranges, pineapple, plums, grapes, cherries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapefruit, dragonfruit, banana, lemon, lime, tangerine, pomegranate, and more.
>>455264
"I can't find a key… I think he has it. But maybe it could be pried open…"
>>455280
She leads you down a torch-lit hallway, to an antechamber. There are a lot of roots hanging down here, and there are hives lining the walls. Laying – apparently unconscious – in the middle of the room is Stein.
>>455281
She gives you a cheery smile. "Yep, it's a good crop this year. Have your mommy stop by and pick some up!"
>>455282
You had entered the sheep village and finished buying from the apothecary. Will you investigate some more?
She leads you down a torch-lit hallway, to an antechamber. There are a lot of roots hanging down here, and there are hives lining the walls. Laying – apparently unconscious – in the middle of the room is Stein.
>>455281
She gives you a cheery smile. "Yep, it's a good crop this year. Have your mommy stop by and pick some up!"
>>455282
You had entered the sheep village and finished buying from the apothecary. Will you investigate some more?
>>455310
Well, it's pretty ramshackle. There are a bunch of odd ingredients like bones and dung around that aren't making it smell pleasant.
Particularly odd are these weird… black sacks laying around everywhere.
>>455313
You never leave a sheep behind, and drag him quietly back to Happy Puzzle, who heals him.
"Ughh.. vat vas–" Happy Puzzle stuffs a hoof in his mouth. "Shh!"
Well, it's pretty ramshackle. There are a bunch of odd ingredients like bones and dung around that aren't making it smell pleasant.
Particularly odd are these weird… black sacks laying around everywhere.
>>455313
You never leave a sheep behind, and drag him quietly back to Happy Puzzle, who heals him.
"Ughh.. vat vas–" Happy Puzzle stuffs a hoof in his mouth. "Shh!"
>>455412
You scrounge around in Stein's bag and find some engineering rags that are probably meant for wiping away fluids, but they're pretty thick and will provide solid filtration.
>>455413
"So south? No…"
Hm. Maybe you should ask someone knowledgeable about plants, someone knowledgeable about this procedure, or someone generally knowledgeable about magic.
You scrounge around in Stein's bag and find some engineering rags that are probably meant for wiping away fluids, but they're pretty thick and will provide solid filtration.
>>455413
"So south? No…"
Hm. Maybe you should ask someone knowledgeable about plants, someone knowledgeable about this procedure, or someone generally knowledgeable about magic.
>>455425
You mean Sitar. Roll.
>>455426
"You're right. In fact, really, the only thing it had going for it was that it grew virulently, so in areas where it was available, it made a cheap gunpowder replacement when ground up. It also had the perk of glowing. Aside from that though… well, there's a reason you don't see it outside of the Equestrian North. You know, I had made plans to dock at Crystalport eventually."
You mean Sitar. Roll.
>>455426
"You're right. In fact, really, the only thing it had going for it was that it grew virulently, so in areas where it was available, it made a cheap gunpowder replacement when ground up. It also had the perk of glowing. Aside from that though… well, there's a reason you don't see it outside of the Equestrian North. You know, I had made plans to dock at Crystalport eventually."
>>455428
"If you find Curry, tell him to get it together.
For real.
I need him to get a second cutie mark, and soon.
And if he doesn't yield any results in a reasonable time, maybe we can find out how much ammo we need before somepony can earn a 'Bullet Sponge' mark. I don't want to waste ammo or time, so he better hurry up. Thanks!"
"If you find Curry, tell him to get it together.
For real.
I need him to get a second cutie mark, and soon.
And if he doesn't yield any results in a reasonable time, maybe we can find out how much ammo we need before somepony can earn a 'Bullet Sponge' mark. I don't want to waste ammo or time, so he better hurry up. Thanks!"
>>455430
You creep to the end of the hallway.
Happy Puzzle combat rolls forward, across a doorway, and looks in, before motioning for you to approach.
You look inside, and draw a sharp breath of anticipation.
…
…
…
It looks like Chivalry is passed out. Sitar gives you a dazed look from the corner. "Your little brother got into my stuff. Sorry."
>>455432
"Not necessarily."
You creep to the end of the hallway.
Happy Puzzle combat rolls forward, across a doorway, and looks in, before motioning for you to approach.
You look inside, and draw a sharp breath of anticipation.
…
…
…
It looks like Chivalry is passed out. Sitar gives you a dazed look from the corner. "Your little brother got into my stuff. Sorry."
>>455432
"Not necessarily."
>>455437
"The chains? Don't bother me."
>>455438
>>455436
[Before you arrived to talk to Smitts]
On your way back into town, some ponies stop the two of you. They offer you some kind smiles.
"We saw you couldn't afford clothes, so we chipped in and got you something…"
They produce a colt-sized sailor outfit for Curry.
>>455436
"There's a library on the north edge of town – very close to these docks, actually. It's dedicated to a centuries-dead mare named Nylis that was very concerned with teleportation. Most ponies don't realize she was involved in research related to what we call 'Structured' or large-scale catalysts. They were called pylons back in the day. You can read about them more on site, but they're very important here in Dixie. Teleportation arrays were very important to Nylis too, so you might ask to see if they have materials on teleportation there. You might get lucky."
He pauses. "Good to see you're coming out of your shell again, by the way."
"The chains? Don't bother me."
>>455438
>>455436
[Before you arrived to talk to Smitts]
On your way back into town, some ponies stop the two of you. They offer you some kind smiles.
"We saw you couldn't afford clothes, so we chipped in and got you something…"
They produce a colt-sized sailor outfit for Curry.
>>455436
"There's a library on the north edge of town – very close to these docks, actually. It's dedicated to a centuries-dead mare named Nylis that was very concerned with teleportation. Most ponies don't realize she was involved in research related to what we call 'Structured' or large-scale catalysts. They were called pylons back in the day. You can read about them more on site, but they're very important here in Dixie. Teleportation arrays were very important to Nylis too, so you might ask to see if they have materials on teleportation there. You might get lucky."
He pauses. "Good to see you're coming out of your shell again, by the way."
>>455448
You head down to the Nylis Library. According to a plaque out front it was named for some shut in pone from the ancient Equestrian North. She spent a lot of time studying 'pylons' and teleportation.
It's pretty large, and bricks seem the dominant style here rather than wood in the rest of the city.
You head down to the Nylis Library. According to a plaque out front it was named for some shut in pone from the ancient Equestrian North. She spent a lot of time studying 'pylons' and teleportation.
It's pretty large, and bricks seem the dominant style here rather than wood in the rest of the city.
>>455464
…I'm not wearing that hat. But it would be rude not to wear the hat. But I don't want to wear the hat. But it would be ungracious not to wear the hat.
Just this once. Once. I'll put on the hat and then walk back out from behind the tree, making certain to thank the two ponies who got me this delightful outfit.
…I'm not wearing that hat. But it would be rude not to wear the hat. But I don't want to wear the hat. But it would be ungracious not to wear the hat.
Just this once. Once. I'll put on the hat and then walk back out from behind the tree, making certain to thank the two ponies who got me this delightful outfit.
>>455465
You quickly flee the cave. The bees hate you.
>>455466
Eventually you hear footsteps coming down the stairs, and you're greeted by a large earth pone. "Ah, a griffon. Not many of your kind out here."
>>455474
There is a front desk, but when you try to talk to the clerk, they teleport away.
>>455475
They seem pleased and depart.
You quickly flee the cave. The bees hate you.
>>455466
Eventually you hear footsteps coming down the stairs, and you're greeted by a large earth pone. "Ah, a griffon. Not many of your kind out here."
>>455474
There is a front desk, but when you try to talk to the clerk, they teleport away.
>>455475
They seem pleased and depart.
>>455479
He laughs for a troublingly long time.
"Oh. You were serious. Well, uh, if you ever figure out that one, get, like, back to me on it."
He returns to chuckling.
>>455480
You catch up with her at the Nylis Library of Dixie near the docks.
>>455483
"Birdkeeping is popular here in Dixie – though mostly the Order do it, I care for birds as a hobby."
He laughs for a troublingly long time.
"Oh. You were serious. Well, uh, if you ever figure out that one, get, like, back to me on it."
He returns to chuckling.
>>455480
You catch up with her at the Nylis Library of Dixie near the docks.
>>455483
"Birdkeeping is popular here in Dixie – though mostly the Order do it, I care for birds as a hobby."
>>455557
"Magic is Dixie's great strength – so ponies here know how dangerous it can be."
>>455553
"I'm afraid that array only goes to the historical region known as Wintersgrasp from pre-Crystal Empire times – to the graveyard where library patron Lady Nylis is supposedly buried. Though to be honest, a real historian would tell you that she's more likely interred – well, never mind you that."
"Magic is Dixie's great strength – so ponies here know how dangerous it can be."
>>455553
"I'm afraid that array only goes to the historical region known as Wintersgrasp from pre-Crystal Empire times – to the graveyard where library patron Lady Nylis is supposedly buried. Though to be honest, a real historian would tell you that she's more likely interred – well, never mind you that."
>>455573
"You'd need five trained casters – the librarians here can all help, but you'd need everyone on duty… Why do you want to go to Equestria so badly?"
>>455574
Yes, indeed. Perhaps best to buy some or move on.
>>455575
"It's not that drastic. Something might be alchemized, though, if you really want to do things the hard way. You'd need some things from those sheep out west."
>>455577
There are a lot of birds here, ranging from parrots to turkeys. Most are pigeons, though.
"You… stop by for a reason…?"
"You'd need five trained casters – the librarians here can all help, but you'd need everyone on duty… Why do you want to go to Equestria so badly?"
>>455574
Yes, indeed. Perhaps best to buy some or move on.
>>455575
"It's not that drastic. Something might be alchemized, though, if you really want to do things the hard way. You'd need some things from those sheep out west."
>>455577
There are a lot of birds here, ranging from parrots to turkeys. Most are pigeons, though.
"You… stop by for a reason…?"
>>455633
"I found this store which sells a completely awesome scope that would be perfect for my gun whenever I need better aim, but I didn't have any money so I bartered but he'll only sell it to me with a 'parent's whatnot' and that would be hard otherwise.
Also, we are second cousins of somepony who lives here if he asks."
"I found this store which sells a completely awesome scope that would be perfect for my gun whenever I need better aim, but I didn't have any money so I bartered but he'll only sell it to me with a 'parent's whatnot' and that would be hard otherwise.
Also, we are second cousins of somepony who lives here if he asks."
>>455611
"You must have run into Tulip. We joke that she honor our patron's memory with her shyness."
>>455618
Skylight reports that he headed off into the eastern woodlands.
"He seemed… hm, I'm not sure how to put it. Anxious? I haven't even seen him like that."
>>455658
You return to the shop with Spring.
"You must have run into Tulip. We joke that she honor our patron's memory with her shyness."
>>455618
Skylight reports that he headed off into the eastern woodlands.
"He seemed… hm, I'm not sure how to put it. Anxious? I haven't even seen him like that."
>>455658
You return to the shop with Spring.
>>456446
Based on the map, the first two floors are mostly open, singular room affairs with plenty of seating, tall bookshelves, and a large central display. The second floor has a lengthy balcony and opening in the floor such that the first floor's display can be seen from above. The third floor is multi-roomed and full of card catalogs, archives, and reference.
"If I see her."
Based on the map, the first two floors are mostly open, singular room affairs with plenty of seating, tall bookshelves, and a large central display. The second floor has a lengthy balcony and opening in the floor such that the first floor's display can be seen from above. The third floor is multi-roomed and full of card catalogs, archives, and reference.
"If I see her."
>>456444
Fuck. I don't have the time to spare to check on him now…
"What of your brother, miss Skylight? I will need him and miss Mera to do something for me. It is rather urgent. … Would you mind looking after Grey Worm and Red? I could take miss Rosemary along instead in that case. Unless you do not mind joining me into town."
Fuck. I don't have the time to spare to check on him now…
"What of your brother, miss Skylight? I will need him and miss Mera to do something for me. It is rather urgent. … Would you mind looking after Grey Worm and Red? I could take miss Rosemary along instead in that case. Unless you do not mind joining me into town."