Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 14, 2011, 12:33:30 am
Firstly the rules. This is not a succession fort, however, I welcome the claiming of any unnamed character. You may assign, this character, a name, profession, weapon type (if applicable), and whatever personality you deem fit. You are welcome to ask for any information about any candidate, such as deities they worship and descriptions of said gods. I also, encourage you to write about the events of the fortress I describe in from your character's point of view, to share in this thread.
As the title of this thread you may have figured out that I will be playing with the Pony mod. The pony mod is not my work and can be found here: http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=80240.0
And now, down to business.
World: The Universe of Dragons
Civilization: The Shells of Dance
Capital Town: Tailentranced
Princess: Dizesh Hugwax; Pegasus Pony
General: Dostob Desserttaper; Earth Pony
Starting year 94
Sitting in a wagon, traveling through the wilderness, rode a depressed looking Unicorn named Charity. At a glance it wasn't hard to see why she might have been depressed, for a unicorn she was quite unattractive, downright ugly in fact. She was broad and fat, her purple eyes stood out in an unnatural way from her boring beige coat, now caked with mud from the jungle, and her hair, which was a multitude of colors, none of which had any business being nearby each other, was terribly unkempt. However, she like most unicorns, was convinced of her own perfection. No, her source of pain laid elsewhere, specifically the events of the last few weeks.
Charity had been born into a wealthy noble family in the Town of Tailentranced, the capital of The Shells of Dance, and had lived a very happy life there, as a production manager, determining who did what and when, a task she took to rather well, as she was always more comfortable telling others what to do, than doing it herself.
All was good for Charity until one day she was accused of stealing thousands of bits worth of masterwork goods from the treasury. She had pleaded innocent, claimed she had been framed, but the Princess, a Pegasus named Dizesh Hugwax was unimpressed and sentenced her to exile. Her previous status was not at all forgotten however, and she was given a chance to regain her good name. Charity was given a small pile of supplies, and few beasts of burden, and six ponies, convicted of mostly minor crimes, who chose to go with her instead of stay in prison, together they made up The Vermin of Twilight (a name chosen by the General Dostob Desserttaper) and the 7 of them were tasked with building a thriving colony in the middle of, The Failed Jungles.
The Failed Jungles covers nearly a fifth of the entire known world. It is filled to the brim with the most horrific creatures imaginable. To send 7 ponies into here without the benefit of a military escort, right into the center of the forest, was pure suicide.
On the way there Charity had quickly introduced herself to the 6 convicts. Names had come and gone to fast for her to catch but she had noticed. That she was the only unicorn. She had gotten that the female earth pony was a carpenter, and the male one a miner. Also, we had an tough looking boy Pegasus, and smaller pretty pegasus with a long braided mane, who apparently had medical training, (what crime could she have comitted thought Charity to herself, but decided it better not to ask), and another Pegasus whom she new from the capital as one of the Smith's apprentices, she had shown promise, a shame to be sent on such a likely deadly mission.
Looking over the workers she had Charity was concerned by the lack of anyone in the food industry, but was comforted by the fact that there supplies would last them for a while, and that the Princess had promised to send more “workers” to help out soon. Surely one will be an earth pony that we can uses to raise some crops, she thought.
After days of travel, she had arrived at the spot the princess had commanded. It was hot, and humid. The sound of a stream could be heard nearby, according to the map the stream was called, Bleachedroot the Pranks of Coincidence. The area was thick with plant life, and heavily forested with trees that looked unnatural, it seemed as if the very forest itself was hostile to the presence of the few terrified ponies. Charity decided that they would name the new fortress something happy, something to show that it was a shining point of civilization, inside the harsh and unforgiving jungle, and so it was decided that this would be Glitterglen, Strike the Earth!
Below is the embark information.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
I don't know how fast this board generally moves, so I will wait a little while to see if anyone is wants to name any of the starting 7 before I get underway.
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Edit: The Master has been archiving the thread here. http://ia600804.us.archive.org/35/items/GlitterglenmyLittlePonyFriendshipIsMagicDwarfFortressCommunity/
Edited Edit: The Master created a glitterglen soundtrack! http://tindeck.com/listen/nuvy
Edited Edited Edit: If the above gives you any problems try the following.
"Click the download, save as, then switch the file format from .htm to all files, and append .mp3 to the end."-Dsarker
Claimed Ponies
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Semi-Claimed Ponies.
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Available Ponies
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Post by: The Master on September 14, 2011, 12:42:28 am
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Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 14, 2011, 12:49:15 am
[sarcasm]thanks for the embark info. here's mine[/sarcasm]Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Uh, thanks for pointing that out, now I feel stupid. I edited the OP I think it's working now.
Post by: Criptfeind on September 14, 2011, 01:07:01 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 14, 2011, 01:18:45 am
That was a close call, just as we had decided that this place would be known as Glitterglen, when a flock of deadly Honey Badger Pegasi descended from the sky with murder in their eyes. I made the call to arms and we fought them off together, I even managed to kill one of the bastards myself. Stomped him in the head and smashed it's skull open, but that's nothing compared to that Earth Pony Miner, Cryptson I think his name was, he killed three of them with his bare hoofs, he's been oftly silent too, I think I'll be keeping my distance from him. But now I've got blood all over, I wish we had some soap for nice bubbly bath.
Fortunately, there are no serious injuries from the attack, the Nurse and the carpenter, took a bruising, but I've been assured their injuries are minor and that they will recover with no need for bed rest. Good since we don't yet have any beds to rest in.
Charity's journal 1st Granite 94 addendum:
We tore up the wagon, and used to wood to make a space for our carpenter and she made a wooden axe and has gone of chopping trees. That mason Pegasus has started building a couple of furnaces, when she's done our metalworker can make Cryptson a pick and he can get started digging out our new home. Hopefully before something worse than a flying flock of Honey Badgers shows up.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 14, 2011, 03:39:38 am
She hates trees and would spend as much free time as possible chopping them down.
On top of this, she has plans on designing a small tower with a landing pad on top, designated with a large 'P' on it. This might also have her apartment and workshop in it.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 14, 2011, 03:49:36 am
The pick is forged, and Crypton has taken to digging out what will a space for us to move our goods underground. I have also ordered the construction of a few bits of furniture that will make our new home a bit more livable.
Charity's journal 25th Granite 94
Crypton has finally finished the storeroom, and without missing a beat has gone off to dig out the dormitory area. The rest of us will have our hooves full moving the few supplies we have underground.
3rd Slate 94
The living quarters has been dug out. We moved a few tables and chairs in there, and are in the process of putting a few beds in there. Now that I've got some space to work, I'm going to take an inventory of all the supplies we brought with us.
Cryptson came to me today, he seemed down, but no worse than usual. Told me he'd struck an aquifer and he thinks it's quite deep. He said we won't be able to get any stone until we find a way past it. This won't be easy.
14th Slate 94
Praise Gadan! (Gadan the Virtue of Angels is a deity of The Shells of Dance. Gadan most often takes the form of a male unicorn pony and is associated with happiness) We took a chance, and it payed off. A little exploratory mining has netted us a way around the aquifer to the stone below. It is a bit of a walk down the new hallway to reach the staircase down, but it will save us months of work trying to breach the aquifer. This will do just fine for now. Now I have to tell Cryptson to stop hanging around the meeting hall with those Pegasus girls and to start digging out some workshop spaces. He's going to be in work for a long time.
8th Felsite 94
Not much has happened over the past month. Our metalworker. Gulnas Katakbungek has been keeping busy by constructing our last bit of copper ore into a suit of armor for Iger, the Pegasus to wear, and a couple of weapons. Iger seems content with the plate and his new axe.
Edit: Iger the Pegasus has since been renamed, Starkey.
Edit the second: Gulnas is now called Cinderspark.
I had Lanlar, fly over to the river and construct a bridge, as I don't know from where our reinforcements will be coming from, and I don't want them stranded on the other side of the river.
edit: Lanlar is now Pillomino.
We now also, have the space to move our carpentry shop underground, along with a pile of wood, additionally other work spaces are beginning to take form.
11th Felsite 94
How adorable, I noticed that cat we brought along to deal with pests seems to have taken a liking to Cryptson, it's been following him around for awhile while he works. I think he's gotten attached to the little thing, because, I overheard him talking to it when he thought he was alone, he's apparently named it Rorul Larebsur. Maybe the little guy will cheer him up some. I know he get's lonely down in those tunnels.
4th Malachite 94
Cryptson and Rorul, have broken through into a vast underground cavern. According to what I heard they nearly fell in while digging out a new downward stair way, when they hit the ceiling of the cavern. We will patch up this hole, in case of cave swallows, and then dig through one of the many columns in the cavern. Looking around, through our tiny hole we have been able to see that the cavern has rich deposits of Cobaltite, along with gemstones lining the walls, and a small underground lake. Might set up a well to draw from the lake. Just in case.
5th Malachite 94
A new batch of convicts and criminals approaches. I've been sorting them and it seems as if we've got, a male earth pony with no skills, hope he learns fast cause he gets the privilege of maintaining our fields now, he should enjoy that. Earth ponies like playing in the dirt. A unicorn bone carver she also claims to be trained in setting broken bones, a worrying combination I feel. Another unicorn claims to be a damned legend back home, says she can glaze pottery better than anyone else, I told her that I hope she can carry stone half a well as she glazes then because that's likely all the work she's going to get here. We also, got a female Craftpegasus, a female unicorn weaponsmith, and most interesting of all a Royal pony, he hasn't had to do a days work in his life and has no combat experience, however, he'll learn quick, those Royal Ponies are damn clever, and I'm sure we can find some worthy task for him.
Okay, I'm off to bed for the night. Story will continue tomorrow night, probably. Hoping someone will claim the Royal Pony as their avatar before then, and gives me an idea of what to do with him. Might just stick him in the military to make use of his size.
Pony list
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Edit: Darkening Kaos you posted while I was typing, the pony list has been updated to reflect your choice.
Post by: Criptfeind on September 14, 2011, 06:30:51 am
Post by: pantherrpg on September 16, 2011, 05:05:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on September 16, 2011, 06:56:30 pm
I'd like to claim the militia captain, named Starkey.
Can fliers use ranged weapons while airborne? If possible, he would go about assembling a sort of pegasus air force in addition to the fortress guard proper.
Post by: Khenal on September 16, 2011, 09:42:09 pm
Post by: Grifen88 on September 17, 2011, 02:47:10 am
Dibs on the next miner!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 17, 2011, 04:10:10 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 7th Malachite 94
A cry came from the surface this day, I think it was Thundersplinters. I knew she should have stayed inside, but she wouldn't hear of it. The cry called out one word, "STRANGLERS!" Starkey knew it was his moment to shine, grabbed the copper battle axe, and ran for the surface.
Starkey charged the multi-armed beast and hacked it to bits in seconds. Turning, he ran toward it's mate. It was chasing one of our beasts of burden around the riverside. A water buffulo I believe. Cut it in two with two skillful chops of his axe, if the story he tells is true, regardless, he dealt with the threat, expertly.
Below image is combat report from the first Strangler.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Starkey%20and%20the%20Strangler.png)
19th Malachite 94
A herd, no a pride, or is it troop, or...Dammit, a WHOLE BUNCH, of Honey Badger Ponies, started harassing Thundersplinters, and our grazers today. I sent Starkey to hunt them all down. Haven't heard back from him yet.
1st Galena 94
Starkey returned from the surface. He's been chasing down every Honey Badger Pony in the area, his -copper high boots- are covered with dried badger pony blood. He requested that I draft more soldiers, says he can teach them how to fight if I can't find any experienced recruits. I told him I'd think about it. We certainly need a larger militia, but I'm not sure who to spare.
8th Galena 94
Keeping track of our constantly changing stocks, has come to take up most of my time, thus I need an assistant to manage the workers. Unfortunately no one here has a lick of managerial experience, I've decided to let that Royal, Khenal, help me out for a while until I find a more permanent assistant. That Khenal, I can tell he's trying, he helped the new earth pony, whatshisname, plow the fields, didn't expect to see him getting dirty, he surprised me there, he's also, been helping our food supplies by fishing whenever he isn't busy helping carry stone out of the tunnels, to the pile by the Mason's work area. He still hasn't found a proper place to fit in yet, but he's trying.
27th Galena 94
Today is day of great auspiciousness. In search of deep metal our miner Cryptson has struck the great magma sea. He tells me that that can only mean that Raw Adamantine is nearby, a great find that could be, though if even a fraction of the legends surrounding that mysterious metal are true, then mining for it could be to hazardous, though he tells me there are some established methods of extracting it from the earth, something about making tiny windows. He's the miner I'll trust he knows what he's talking about but, it doesn't matter just yet as he has plenty of other work to do, without worrying about blue metal.
I have decided that we should make use of the magic of magma and build a few magma powered smelters and furnaces, using the clay from the surface, and baking it in the heat of the magma, we can have all the pottery we could ever need. Hmm, maybe, we could use that glazing legend after all.
27th Galena 94 ammendum;
I seem to forgotten to mention in my journal, last week, that the area designated as the future hospital and well have been dug out. Only need to furnish them now.
Pony List
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Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 17, 2011, 04:52:48 am
I guess she's gonna have to come to terms with that filly-hood trauma of trees and flight training I was working on, perhaps put all that pent-up anger into part-time warrior training with the axe whenever her wood-cutting and carpentry skills aren't in demand.
Looking forward to seeing how this is going to develop.
Daarkening Kaos, CIS.
Post by: Firelordsky on September 17, 2011, 09:43:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on September 17, 2011, 09:51:07 am
TF2 medic style personality, name of Friesden.
Post by: Impending Doom on September 17, 2011, 10:25:11 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 17, 2011, 04:36:56 pm
A strong bond with nature????
I guess she's gonna have to come to terms with that filly-hood trauma of trees and flight training I was working on, perhaps put all that pent-up anger into part-time warrior training with the axe whenever her wood-cutting and carpentry skills aren't in demand.
Looking forward to seeing how this is going to develop.
Daarkening Kaos, CIS.
The "A pony with a strong bond with nature." bit is at the end of every earth ponies description. It effectively replaces the "A short, sturdy creature fond of drink and industry" that dwarves have in the vanilla version. Thus, I think your woodcutter can keep hating trees as long as you want.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 17, 2011, 08:59:26 pm
Darkening Kaos, CIS.
Post by: Nidokoenig on September 17, 2011, 09:53:36 pm
What is it about this mod that causes it to want to make all pegasi obese? I noticed that while reading over Haybeers as well. Ah well, he's a soldier, I guess he'll work it off pretty quick.
That is odd, when I'm testing the new updates I'll see if actually happens or is just randomly happens using a 255 pony embark, then we can get to spitballing about why that might be.
Wow, honey badger pegasi, and regular honey badger ponies? That's a whole lot of fun.
Reading the rest of her bio suggests she's altogether too cheerful to hold a grudge for long and does like working outdoors, so it's no great thing to change my perception before we get too far in. As she likes ballista bolts, perhaps she should try her hand (hoof?) at carving a couple to decorate her room. But she still wants a tall tower with landing pad on top, preferably made of wood blocks, if any can be spared for the project. And the 'P' on top made of Aluminium or Nickel.
Darkening Kaos, CIS.
Wood shouldn't be a problem, given that woodcrafters can cast spells to turn regular plants into wood in a wood painting workshop(based on Twilight turning an apple into a stagecoach). You can take advantage of that by making surplus crops into wood, then turning that wood into potash and growing more crops next season, and thus making a big enough surplus to make a tower out of plump helmets. Oh, and for an earth pony, she'd be trying her teeth at carving ballista bolts, since her mouth is the only grasper she has.
Post by: Khenal on September 18, 2011, 03:23:51 am
Hmm, I'm not sure if "Diary" is the right word. I'll try a new one later. Anyway, I can't believe I've been banished to this Gliterglen place. How was I supposed to know that ambassador was allergic to peanuts? Oh well, it's not like I really felt like I fit in at home. Maybe ponies can treat me like a regular pony and not bow all the time, that'd be nice.
Khenal's Journal
This place isn't so bad, though it's really, really hot here. Nopony seems to know what I should do, so I've been just doing what I can to help where it seems like we need it. Fishing was interesting and relaxing, though topside seems a tad dangerous. I also helped a little with the farms, those farmer ponies have serious work! After helping plant a few things, I started simply hauling things. It's not bad work, hauling. I enjoy it. The others have finally relaxed and don't stand slack-jawed when they see me doing something..."common"? Unroyal? I dunno, but I like doing this stuff.
Khenal's Log
Ugh, I've been assigned as the manager. I was worried that the bowing and scraping was rearing it's ugly head again, but it turned out that nopony else knew anything about managing work orders. I think Charity saw my sour expression when she gave me the news. Well, I'll try my best. At least it doesn't seem to take too long to do this stupid paperwork. I'd hate to sit in an office all day, it's nice to actually get out and do real work.
***
Wow, it's kinda scary how closely his in game info fits the personality I was planning for him. He's also incredibly green: emerald eyes, sea green coat and jade hair. I'm gonna find that pony builder somebody linked to and post a pic if I can get it to work. And a link so other people can do stuff too :)
*EDIT
Pic of Khenal
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Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 18, 2011, 02:58:54 pm
In game pony screen shots
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Charity's Journal 20th Limestone 94
Our Mason Lanlar, along with a few assistants, have put together a stone wall around our entrance, it won't keep a proper siege out. But it will be enough for the local wildlife. Friesden, that Pegasus filly, she's taken a look over the Hospital area and has drawn up a list of things she'll need. It's a quite reasonable list of demands, mostly she needs tables, for surgery, and storage space.
26th Limestone 94
More Honey Badge Ponies have been spotted upon the surface. We sent Starkey to take care of them. He did so in a beautiful dance of blood and copper blades. However, upon returning home, I noticed he had several bruises, all along his body, wings, and spine. Clearly, our need for more soldiers is growing, we can't keep relying on Starkey alone. I know this.
I asked Starkey for his recommendations, and he seems to want to create two squads, one for close combat, and one composed entirely of pegasi with crossbows, to move quickly to wherever they are needed.
I agree with his assessment, however, even if I were to draft some ponies under him, we have no metal for weapons or armor. The next supply caravan can't come soon enough.
3rd Sandstone 94
A fresh group of "migrants." Three of them. First one, a Pegasus, he's worked as a presser in the city, but he's got a bit of medical training as well. Though he seems to lazy, to be trusted with anything as important as our medical needs. I think he's going to go in Starkey's crossbow squad when that get's set up. Second, we got a pair of Unicorn stallions. One, named Nicolta Tesla is an gem cutter, and the other, who's name I forget, is a gem setter.
addendum
Looks like we're going to be able to start that crossbow squad now, that Pegasus craftspony came to me, and she admitted she'd been hiding the fact that she was a veteran from the military back home, she offered to help out Starkey. But I've decided to let her command the new squad, and her first recruit, that new pegasus.
4th Sandstone 94
I thought I had been doing Khenal a favor by making him the manager. I thought it the best way to allow him to be useful but not have to dirty his hooves with "common" jobs. However, he seemed unhappy in this position. He still spent his time doing other jobs. I've talked to him about it and it seems he'd rather help the town in a more direct manner, and doesn't want any special treatment. We talked some more and when the possibility of the military came up, he seemed genuinely interested in it. So, I'm officially replacing him as manager with one of the unicorns and assigning him as Starkey's new recruit. Starkey's going to begin training him and hopefully before long he'll be a respectable warrior.
18th Sandstone 94
Perhaps I misjudged poor Lolum. That was the name of the Pegasus I described as lazy before, who I had drafted into the archery squad. He has certainly proven himself this day. Due to a mistake in design. A magma crab had made it's way into our lowest levels. Trapping three defenseless ponies between it and miles of solid stone. When brave Lolum, lept unto the creature, without a weapon and nothing more than his plain clothing to protect him from the heat, smoke enveloped the battle, the onlookers couldn't tell exactly what happened. All we know is that the Crab is dead. Killed by this pony, and that Lolum delivered the final strike while his hair and his skin was burning off.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Lolum%20on%20fire.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Lolum%20Abrasenshal%2C%20Wrestler%20has%20bled%20to%20death.png)
He has fallen but will be remembered. Cryptson will dig out a small tomb near where he fell, and I'm instructing Nicolta Tesla to smooth the stone inside of it.
In retelling of the story the ponies have named the Magma Crab Zuglaroslan.
Starkey is being sent down to stop any more that might come up, before the hole can be patched.
The Pony List
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on September 18, 2011, 05:18:42 pm
I am such a foal! I was returning from fishing with a rather nice mussel and I decided to stop for a moment on the retaining wall. I never facehooved so hard as when I realized I didn't have enough room for takeoff! Luckily, the others noticed and helped me down. I've never been so embarrassed in all my life.
Khenal's Testament
Bleh, "testament" is defiantly not the word for this book. Charity came by to ask how the managing was going. I tried to play nonchalant, but she could see right through me. We talked for a while and I told her how I just wanted to be treated like everypony else. She still seems a bit unsure of this, but was kind enough to assign somepony else to managing the work orders and asked me to talk with Starkey about military training.
Starkey, there's one scary pony. He's the main martial pony around here, with several kills to his name. He's a bit gruff, and a tough teacher, but it makes sense. I mean, this is a deadly serious profession he's trying to get through my thick skull. He's gotta be hard so I don't just panic when ponies need protecting, and I appreciate that I get no special treatment from him. After training, I try to help with other tasks around also, but I'm usually even more exhausted than when I helped with the farming! It's a good exhausted, though.
Khenal's Record
Deadly serious profession indeed. A magma crab managed to get into the fortress and had several ponies trapped! Lolum, a recruit from the other squad, was the closest military pony and didn't hesitate to come to the defense of those ponies. Details of the fight are sparse, the witnesses say there was a lot of smoke and fire. Lolum defeated the magma crab and saved those ponies, though it cost him his life. Everypony is doing what they can to honor him, setting up his tomb and beautifying it. Me, I'm doing my best to live up to his legacy: to do my best to protect those ponies of Glitterglen, no matter the personal cost.
***
Dang flier pathing trying to get me killed :P I got bored and used the pony creator to make the ponies that had descriptions posted.
Firstly, our beloved overseer: Charity!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Followed by our intrepid miner pony: Cryptson
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Next is our resident badass and military pony: Starkey, complete with copper armor
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The woodspony: ThunderSplinter
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Our jemcutter: Nicolta Tesla, wearing a bit of his work
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Lastly, but not leastly, our chief medical pony: Friesden, in her scrubs
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Post by: soaringdragon42 on September 18, 2011, 05:28:23 pm
I'll try to make journal posts, but between school and my muse having run off somewhere, we'll see what happens.
Post by: Dsarker on September 18, 2011, 05:30:10 pm
New plan. Pegasi have a short runway requirement. What if I was to make the wings larger? I'll try the first experiment on Khenal....just need a donor for the wings....That craftspony doesn't look like she's doing anything important. How to arrange an... 'unfortunate' accident, though?
Post by: soaringdragon42 on September 18, 2011, 05:33:54 pm
Friesden's journal
New plan. Pegasi have a short runway requirement. What if I was to make the wings larger? I'll try the first experiment on Khenal....just need a donor for the wings....That craftspony doesn't look like she's doing anything important. How to arrange an... 'unfortunate' accident, though?
Ack! XD
Post by: Dsarker on September 18, 2011, 05:37:38 pm
Friesden's journal
New plan. Pegasi have a short runway requirement. What if I was to make the wings larger? I'll try the first experiment on Khenal....just need a donor for the wings....That craftspony doesn't look like she's doing anything important. How to arrange an... 'unfortunate' accident, though?
Ack! XD
Funny thing is, I posted this JUST as you claimed her :P
Post by: BowlSoldier on September 18, 2011, 05:37:48 pm
Also: that pony creator is awesome.
EDIT: Name: Cinderspark. Cindy for short.
Post by: pantherrpg on September 18, 2011, 10:27:18 pm
3rd Sandstone, 94
Today I arrived at Glitterglen with two other ponies. The overseer asked me what jobs I could do, so I started telling her about my current death-ray project.
She seemed glassy-eyed until I began explaining the work I had been doing on cutting gem lenses. At this point she interrupted me, saying she was glad the fort finally had a gem cutter, and galloped off.
Post by: Impending Doom on September 19, 2011, 12:17:57 am
26th Limestone, 94
Well, our badger-pony problem doesn't appear to be getting better anytime soon. Not that they're much more than a nuisance, really - I made short work of this batch. It's actually quite the thrill, getting up close and personal with the enemy. I've been thinking I might hold off on taking up the crossbow again, stay down on the ground for awhile.
When I got back, Miss Charity took one look at me and told me to see Doc Friesden straight away. I told her I felt fine, but she insisted. I get that she worries about us, being our leader and all. But I'm a big colt and a soldier besides, I think I can take a few hard knocks.
- - - - - -
Just got back from a visit with the good doctor. I take back what I said about Miss Charity.
And the badgerponies.
And the crossbow. We could do with our own little Skyguard out here, and I told Miss Charity as much. She agreed, and said she'd see what she can do.
I wonder how hard it would be to put an axe on a crossbow? Or maybe a sword, swords are nice too...
*the rest of the page is filled with doodles of pegasi dealing death to badgerponies with a variety of crossbow-hybrid weapons*
3rd Sandstone, 94
Miss Charity introduced me to a couple of prospective recruits for our Skyguard: a filly I vaguely remember meeting in basic back home, and some new colt who just showed up this morning. I set her up as my first squadron leader, with the new kid - Lolum's his name - on her wing. Not much else we can do until we get some weapons and ammunition.
4th Sandstone, 94
Miss Charity is either exhorbitently overprotective, or she's got a thing for me. She sent me another rookie today, and this one's a doozy: a royal pony, direct descendant of the Goddesses. I spoke with this Khenal kid, and turns out he's the one who got stuck up on the wall the other day. I asked him how a pony with wings gets stuck on top of anything, and he told me he didn't have room to take off. Asked him if he knew how to hover, and he gave me a blank stare.
Yeah, you're with the ground squad, kid.
Or maybe not? God-kin can fly and use magic. I wonder how many crossbows he can levitate? Oooh, maybe he can carry a ballista like ol' Primrose used to do back home?
18th Sandstone 94
I guess this was bound to happen sooner or later.
Lolum went after a magma crab that cornered some ponies in the underground. Not sure how it went down exactly, but I saw him as they were rushing him up to the hospital. Poor kid was scarred up and bleeding all over, his mane and tail were burned clean off. Found out later he didn't make it. His wingleader took it real hard. She said she'd never lost anypony before, told her it happens to us all eventually. Asked me how I got over it, I told her I still haven't.
We said a little prayer to Kulet for him together, and I guess that made her feel better. I'd write a poem, but neither of us is any good at poetry. I hope Lolum doesn't mind.
(Kulet is listed as Starkey's deity twice, so I'm taking that to mean he's somewhere between moderate and devout.)
Post by: Dsarker on September 19, 2011, 12:27:38 am
Well, somepony seems to be keeping an eye on the craftspony. Can't find any simple methods for tricking her into amputating her wings.
Wait. New idea. Poison the booze. She'll have to drink from the well, and will 'accidentally' fall in! It can't fail! Time to do it right away!
Post by: Impending Doom on September 19, 2011, 12:31:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on September 19, 2011, 12:37:29 am
The booze is poisonee. Only have to wait for our plans to succeed....wait...idea! Let's chop off the horn of a unicorn and attach it to a pegasus! What could go wrong with that? Who to cause an unfortunate accident for? That's the question....
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 19, 2011, 01:15:15 am
Okay, I'm confused. are the craftspony that just got drafted and the one that SoaringDragon claimed the same?
Can I have the female pegasus craftpony? Name her Pillomino.
I'll try to make journal posts, but between school and my muse having run off somewhere, we'll see what happens.
Indeed, they are one in the same. Soaringdragon42 I forgot to mention it in the updated pony list, that the female pegasus craftpony is indeed the pegasus, that I noticed had some combat skill, and that I drafted as the leader of the new airborne squadron. If that alters your desire to claim that one please say so, and you can take someone else. If it doesn't matter, or you don't respond by the time I play tomorrow night, the Militia captain will be renamed Pillomino.
Also, Khenal thank you for sharing those images of the characters. Those are great.
Miss Charity is either exhorbitently overprotective, or she's got a thing for me.
Purely overprotective I assure you Starkey. Besides looking at Charity's relationships it seems as if she's fallen for a certain blue stallion by the name of Cryptson. The unicorn overseerer involved with a day laboring earth pony. Scandalous.
I may have to devote a journal entry, or two, to that next time.
Post by: Khenal on September 19, 2011, 01:25:29 am
Wait, did I use diary already? Ah well, this booze is awesome and everyone needs to know about it! I have to compliment the brewer, usually it takes sunshine to even make me feel anything, woo!
Post by: Dsarker on September 19, 2011, 01:26:51 am
Post by: soaringdragon42 on September 19, 2011, 01:38:41 am
Indeed, they are one in the same. Soaringdragon42 I forgot to mention it in the updated pony list, that the female pegasus craftpony is indeed the pegasus, that I noticed had some combat skill, and that I drafted as the leader of the new airborne squadron. If that alters your desire to claim that one please say so, and you can take someone else. If it doesn't matter, or you don't respond by the time I play tomorrow night, the Militia captain will be renamed Pillomino.
Ah, fooie. Can I have the Mason/Stonecrafter from the starting 7 then?
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 19, 2011, 03:45:51 am
Circa late Limestone:
I've examined the wall where Khenal became stuck when returning from fishing and it seems obvious that he needs to lose weight; in the meantime, I'll suggest to Charity that we install some simple ramps.
Early Sandstone:
Pony migrants! A new pegasus presser makes 5 of us now. Might have to nominate the most qualified as our air traffic controller and designate proper landing areas - and make sure that Khenal knows how to use them, even royals need to follow the basic rules of flight.
Mid Sandstone:
Our first casualty....... Lolum will be missed, but his selfless bravery certainly saved several others. If only we had had more time to get to know him so we could honour him properly. This area we have settled needs to be tamed, so I am going to volunteer my axe for service and defend our burgeoning colony.
Signing off for now,
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: Theropod Watcher on September 19, 2011, 01:53:08 pm
Post by: Haspen on September 19, 2011, 03:33:12 pm
Make sure she makes as much swords and spears as possible :P
Post by: Khenal on September 19, 2011, 03:35:29 pm
Is this what a hangover is? I woke up with Feiesden giving me this strange look, and my horn is sore. In fact, my everything is sore. What did I do last night? Oh crap, my training! Starkey is going to give me hell!
Post by: BowlSoldier on September 19, 2011, 03:43:12 pm
Can I has the female pegasus weaponsmith? Call her Ironya >.>
Make sure she makes as much swords and spears as possible :P
Mind if I take the Female Pegasus Metalworker from the original 7? Have her have great respect for magma and its magical powers, far greater powers than those used by those self-centered unicorns.
Also: that pony creator is awesome.
Sorry Haspen, that was the one I meant, in case I didn't make that clear. Although I feel like somewhat of a ass for pointing it out.
Here, have an apple to make it up to you! It's full of sugary goodness!
Post by: Haspen on September 19, 2011, 04:25:45 pm
Can I has the female pegasus weaponsmith? Call her Ironya >.>
Make sure she makes as much swords and spears as possible :PMind if I take the Female Pegasus Metalworker from the original 7? Have her have great respect for magma and its magical powers, far greater powers than those used by those self-centered unicorns.
Also: that pony creator is awesome.
Sorry Haspen, that was the one I meant, in case I didn't make that clear. Although I feel like somewhat of a ass for pointing it out.
Here, have an apple to make it up to you! It's full of sugary goodness!
I meant the immigrant weaponsmith, not the starting 7 armor/weaponsmith :P They are both female pegasi, ha. That's also why I mentioned weapons to be forged :P
Post by: BowlSoldier on September 19, 2011, 04:28:53 pm
Can I has the female pegasus weaponsmith? Call her Ironya >.>
Make sure she makes as much swords and spears as possible :PMind if I take the Female Pegasus Metalworker from the original 7? Have her have great respect for magma and its magical powers, far greater powers than those used by those self-centered unicorns.
Also: that pony creator is awesome.
Sorry Haspen, that was the one I meant, in case I didn't make that clear. Although I feel like somewhat of a ass for pointing it out.
Here, have an apple to make it up to you! It's full of sugary goodness!
I meant the immigrant weaponsmith, not the starting 7 armor/weaponsmith :P They are both female pegasi, ha. That's also why I mentioned weapons to be forged :P
Oh, great. In that case, sugary apples for everyone!
Post by: Dsarker on September 19, 2011, 04:31:39 pm
Success! I've not managed (yet) to get another pegasus' wings to extend onto Khenal's, nor a horn to create another royal pony....but I've stolen some wood and used it to make additions onto Khenal's wings while he was knocked out by the alcohol. Now to arrange for that unicorn's unfortunate accident....hahahaha....AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!
Sincerely, Friesden
Post by: Impending Doom on September 19, 2011, 05:53:19 pm
Private Khenal never showed up for practice today. I didn't see him until late this afternoon. I would've scolded the lad for skipping out, if I had been able to stop laughing at the ridiculous wooden shit tacked onto his wings. Oh goddesses, he looked like a fucking peacock, it was just grand. I imagine the hangover, plus the trouble of getting those damn things off will be punishment enough. Dammit, why didn't anyone tell me we threw those kinds of parties here?
Post by: Khenal on September 19, 2011, 08:07:48 pm
What? Tragedy is a valid thing to call you, my book. My life lately has certainly felt like the tragic tales of long ago. I had never been hung over before, and through the haze I didn't notice these...things on my wings! I had expected Captain Starkey to make me do 100 laps of the walls, or 2000 push ups, but he just laughed. I was confused, until he managed to say "wings" while gasping for air. And I thought the wall incident was embarrassing.
Khenal's Report
It's been a few days since the peacock incident, and things are going well. In hindsight, it was a good prank. I even kept the things, they might make a good silly costume later. I think I might ask Thunder Splinter about woodworking, see if I can make the things easier to wear. They are pretty rough, I had to pick several splinters out of my wings after getting the things off.
Post by: Dsarker on September 19, 2011, 08:20:01 pm
Curses! And we would have gotten away with it too, if it hadn't been for that meddling pony! Good news is that the patient is trying the experiment himself, too. We can observe his results and improve on them ourselves! Now, to try our next experiment. Dropping him from a cliff and seeing if he can fly!
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 20, 2011, 03:05:41 am
I've heard some daft ideas in my time but the latest ....um....idea (? if you can call it that) from Khenal takes the cupcake, working wooden extensions to his wings! Has he not considered the extra effort that will be required to take-off with all that extra weight - even now he has difficulties taking off from a wall with his existing wings.
Seriously, Khenal, paint them in pretty colours and put them over the lintel of the gatehouse so that everyone knows this is a flier friendly area.
In possibly unrelated news, whoever is stealing my wooden logs, knock it off, there are much more important projects for that wood than whatever you are up to.
Signing off for now,
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 20, 2011, 05:42:36 am
Secondly, New pony screen shots
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
There is a small unassuming brown leather bound book, worn down with age and use. This book is kept by our overseerer Charity, and she is never parted from it, always hidden under the journal she normally keeps records in. She can be seen scribbling in it when she thinks no pony can see her, and has never let anypony see it. Inside the book is, among other things, the following entries.
Charity's Secret Diary 15th Malachite 94
That earth pony Cryptson came down to my working area in the dining room during his break today. He tried to start up a conversation with me. I told him I was busy but he kept trying to talk anyway, so I took my break early and chatted with him some. He's pretty smart, for an earth pony, we talked about our lives back in Tailentranced before Princess Dizesh Hugwax sent us to this gods forsaken land. I enjoyed talking to him, I hope he comes back to talk again soon.
Charity's Secret Diary 17th Malachite 94
Crypston came back to visit me again today. I hadn't noticed before how blue his coat is, and how pretty his eyes are. If only he weren't an earth pony...
Chairity's Secret Diary 14th 94
Gods what's happening to me. Cryptson keeps visiting with me, and I think I'm falling in love with him. The way he carries himself, the way his beautiful violet coat shimmers in the candle light. The way he acts, back home he would be considered a legend as strong a miner as he is, and yet he's as modest as they come. He is a good man, I know my father wouldn't approve, me a daughter of the Kindplays family, and he a common earth pony, of a common profession, but I love him all the same.
Charity's Journal 21st Opal 94
Our magma forges are properly up and running now. Ironya and Cinderspark are ecstatic. They can't wait to get to work, as soon as we have some proper materials imported. I have made sure that precautions are taken to avoid another Magma crab climbing into ar (A line streaks across the page as if the book had suddenly been ripped from the hooves of the writer. Below in a different handwriting, written in red is the following.
Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan. Lolum Abrasenshal and Zuglarolan.
(On the next page)
A frightening thing just happened. My book was torn from my hooves and threw across the room. Upon investigating I saw that the words in red on the previous page had appeared. It seems as if Lolum is unhappy with the speed at which we are setting up his resting place. I will go down personally and make sure that burial is achieved right away, hopefully that will be enough.
Charity's Journal 6th Obsidian 94
No additional sign of the apparition that visited me has been seen since we finished the tomb of Lolum. I hope this means he is gone for good. The supplies we were promised have not yet arrived. We were promised them by the end of winter, and while they are not technically late yet, I would have expected them by now. I hope for our sake that they have not run into misfortune. The jungle is a dangerous place, full of creatures capable of killing anypony wandering around carelessly. Or they might have been ambushed by Diomedian ponies. Cryptson says I'm just being paranoid. I hope he's right.
10th Obsidian 94
Avan Loelfotthor, that earth pony farmer, was spotted a flock of Honey Badger Pegasi, Starkey, Khenal, and Otik ran to deal with the problem. Almost immediately a war dog, that Khenal had trained was struck down. Khenal took a blow to his left front leg at the start, but then he displayed a level of ability I would not have expected from a raw recruit in his first real battle.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Khenal%20Martial%20Trance.png)
According to the others Khenal killed 5 of the flying bastards himself. Afterwords the battlefield was soaked in blood.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Khenal%27s%20first%20battle.png)
That spear Ironya forged for him is truly exceptional. I'd love to see what she could do with some proper steel.
14th Obsidian 94
I am relieved. The caravan of supplies has finally arrived. I'm having them deliver a special package to the Princess for me, a statue of me carved by my dear friend Pillomino (who I've previously referred to as Lanlar here, I've found out she prefers not to use her given name.) and a pair of puppy tallow cupcakes, the first attempt Khenal made in the kitchen. I hope she chokes on them.
Trading went fairly well overall. Traded most of Pillomino's statues for a pair of Apple Ents, one red delicious and own golden. Also, got a stray grizzly bear in a cage. Will discuss with Starkey how best to weaponize it.
I requested more metal bars/objects/anythings for next year, along with a few other odds and ends.
1st Granite 95
Hard to believe we've been here an entire year. I've filled up my journal, I'll have to get a new one. Looking back this first year here has been more successful than I could have ever hoped. We've set up a functioning community, have three of the bravest ponies I've ever seen watching over us, and I've met my love Cryptson. Praise Igest. (http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Igest%20Romancerose%20the%20Fragrant%20Smile.png)
Here's hoping the coming year will go as smoothly.
Updated pony list
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
To the pony who asked for a save for purposes of looking at legends mode here it is. This copy has already been abandoned so you can go right into legends. This is my first time uploading a save, so when you have a problem let me know and I'll try again.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/region3.zip
One more thing.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Starkey%20and%20his%20axe.png)
Post by: Dsarker on September 20, 2011, 05:59:34 am
My plan is coming together as we speak! Khenal came in for a battered hoof, sustained during the battle. I've anaesthetised him, and as we write, we are dragging him to a nearby cliff. I've affixed his new extensions, and am about to toss him off... Here goes nothing!
Post by: Haspen on September 20, 2011, 06:11:08 am
/me is okay with said unicorn.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 20, 2011, 06:23:18 am
As long as I get metals for weapons...
/me is okay with said unicorn.
I hope you do get your metals Haspen. Unfortunately, I have been unable to find any real metal on the map yet. I'm going to import as much as possible. I could dig for adamantine. But, that's in such limited supply that I prefer to keep that in reserve for legendary smiths only. Unfortunately, training Ironya up to legendary will be slow without any local metal to practice with, but well get there. I did get some steel off the caravan however, so that's a start. First thing I'll do next time is have you forge a shiny new steel spear for Khenal.
Post by: Dsarker on September 20, 2011, 06:40:58 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 20, 2011, 06:53:09 am
Just hope he survivesbeing dropped off a cliff onto sharp rockshis trying to learn flying without a runway.
As much as I would love to help you in this
Post by: Haspen on September 20, 2011, 07:03:28 am
As long as I get metals for weapons...
/me is okay with said unicorn.
I hope you do get your metals Haspen. Unfortunately, I have been unable to find any real metal on the map yet. I'm going to import as much as possible. I could dig for adamantine. But, that's in such limited supply that I prefer to keep that in reserve for legendary smiths only. Unfortunately, training Ironya up to legendary will be slow without any local metal to practice with, but well get there. I did get some steel off the caravan however, so that's a start. First thing I'll do next time is have you forge a shiny new steel spear for Khenal.
Weaponsmiths have better chances to get a mood, soooo... :P
Post by: Theropod Watcher on September 20, 2011, 01:41:39 pm
Post by: BowlSoldier on September 20, 2011, 01:48:18 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
There's mine made on that pony creator. Couldn't get the background to come out unfortunately, but there she is, showing off her work!
Post by: Khenal on September 20, 2011, 01:52:19 pm
Hmm, that sounds a bit pretentious, what do you think Book? Things have settled into a comforting rutine: I start my day training with Captain Starkey, have lunch and do whatever odd jobs need doing, and then finish with a short patrol of the surface. I got to train a war dog over the last few days, though I don't know how much "war" it actually has in it. I like to call him Lil' Urist.
Khenal's Debrief
Honeybadger Pegasi. The Captain, Otik, Lil' Urist and myself rushed out to meet them. Oh, Lil' Urist. The badger pegasi tore him limb from limb. When I saw them covered in his blood, something clicked in my head. All the training the Captain had been trying to drill into me suddenly made perfect sense and time seemed to slow. I could see everything. Teeth, going for my throat, pivot left and set spear. Straight in and out, don't want it getting stuck. Duck under the hooves coming for my head, spear in the exposed stomach and slash out; no bones to obstruct it. I could see the Captain and Otik fighting as well, and they were having no trouble. Back to my foes. When it all was said and done, I had accounted for five of the invaders and had only a chipped hoof for my troubles. Charity told me to have it checked in the hospital, but I wanted to get this written before anything else. The Captain says debriefs should be done asap.
Khenal's Book
Something odd is going on. When I asked Thunder Splinter about the wing extensions, she felt they were a lost cause. She suggested painting them and setting them somewhere as decoration, and I think I'll try my hoof at that if we ever get paint. However, after seeing Dr. Friesden for my hoof, I had this strange dream. I dreamed I was falling, which is silly. I spread my wings and glided, though I couldn't seem to gain any altitude. I drifted down and came to a soft landing and just looked around, and then I noticed my wings. The extensions were back. Rather, new ones were attached to my wings. These looked like they had been more carefully crafted, though they still chafe. Yes, chafe; present tense. When I awoke in my bed, those extensions from my dream were there in reality. I took them off and sat confused for a while. Who would make these things? Who could make these things? Why? I think I'll ask Thunder Splinter about them when I next see her, maybe she made them?
Khenal's Book
I think I like simply calling you my book, Book. It's so relaxingly informal. The caravan arrived today and I got to try cooking. The recipe I found looked odd, but we had the ingredients easily at hoof so I tried it. I thought cupcakes needed flour, but they apparently can work with tallow. Who knew? I don't think they turned out bad, they looked like the picture at least. Charity sent them out with the caravan as a gift to the princess. Are princesses allergic to puppy tallow?
***
Khenal, the unassuming guineapig :P I'll edit in pics of the new ponies once I do them
Here's the other two, since BowlSoldier did his :)
Ironya
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Pillomino
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
I noticed that Cinderspark and Pillomino are practically twins. The only physical difference in their descriptions is how they have their hair done, heh.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 21, 2011, 03:11:27 am
Well. This is just getting curioser and curioser. Khenal came into my workshop wearing yet another set of absurd wing extensions, and the very fact that he could not get them off without considerable help tells me that he could not have installed them in the first place. Add his equally bizzare story of waking up with them after a freaky dream just makes me shiver. I did get an opportunity to examine how they were attached, thinking perhaps that it was some practical joke by an engineer, but that seems unlikely with the way the extensions were attached by cave spider silk thread and some knots I have no knowledge of - I do not know who to ask about knots....hmmm, this is a quandry that will require some further investigation.
In unrelated news: the theft of wood continues, although the other woodcraftponies seem to recall an order for crutches to be made, but, when I asked the bookkeeper, no orders for crutches could be found. I will take matters into my own hooves and sleep near the wood stockpile to see if I can catch the wood-lifter in the act.
Signing off for now,
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 22, 2011, 03:53:29 am
Today Friesden came to me, said she needed, some traction benches, for holding patients still while bones mend. A reasonable request, but something about the look in her eye makes me feel uncomfortable. Unfortunately, for her, we have no mechanics here. She looked upset, and later I found her carving rocks into mechanisms, in the alcove by my office.
Charity's Journal 16th Granite, 95
Now Friesden is burning wooden logs into ash, she claims it's for making soap. But I don't know if I believe that. I know ash is component in making soap, but something seems fishy with that pony.
Charity's Secret Diary 19th Granite, 95
The day has finally, come. Today, Cryptson and I will be married, in the Meeting Hall in front of everypony. Then we will celebrate, with dwarven beers, and wines, and cupcakes, and party until morning, and everypony is invited. I'm so excited. This is the happiest day of my life, even if we are banished out here to the jungle, we can still make a decent life for ourselves.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Charity%27s%20wedding.png)
Charity's Journal 27th Granite, 95
A huge wave of ponies has just arrived at our gates. New members of our band of exiles, enough to double our population, apparently the merchants story of how we've succeeded here has reached even the prison population, and more are considering coming here as an option, instead of assuming it to be as good as a death sentence. Now I have to try and organize these 21 new ponies.
Male Earthpony Doctor Sending this one down to help Friesden, and to keep an eye on his extracurricular activities.
Male Earthpony Farmer
Female Unicorn Seamstress
Male Unicorn Spearpony (going in Starkey's ground squad)
Female Unicorn Lasher (ground squad)
Female Earth Pony thresher and mechanic
Male Unicorn Engraver
Male Pegasus Stoneworker
Female Pegasus Cheesemaker, uh, I mean airborne squadron recruit
Female Earthpony farmer/beekeeper
Male Earthpony Carpenter/woodcutter Thundersplinter needed some assistants.
Feamale Earthpony peasant married to above carpenter and mother of two. Guess she can help move things around.
Male Unicorn foal, around 3 years old
Female Royal Pony foal, 1 year old. (how is it that these two
Male Pegasus chef
Male Pegasus Fisherpony
Female Pegasus woodcutter with minor military experience. Said she used a mace before, well now she's going to learn to shoot a crossbow.
Male Pegasus Blacksmith
Male Unicorn Siege Operator
Male Unicorn weaver
Male Earthpony hunter.
This many new ponies will overcrowd our dormitories. In the morning.Cryptson is going to start digging out individual rooms for everypony. Starting with ours. Thundersplinters is going to have to take a break from the pile of wooden blocks she's been working on, says she wants to build a wooden tower on the surface, and start building some more beds for everypony.
Also, (http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Starkey%20loves%20his%20shield.png)
Post by: Dsarker on September 22, 2011, 04:02:52 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 22, 2011, 04:08:50 am
Mind if Friesden kills off one of the worthless ponies on the sly?
Sure, which one and how did you have in mind. I could make a drop (won't work on fliers), or an upright spike trap room, easily enough, that would be operated by a lever, in Friesden's room, using burrows to make sure Friesden's the one to pull the lever. That could work, unless you have another idea.
Post by: Dsarker on September 22, 2011, 04:17:09 am
Post by: Khenal on September 22, 2011, 04:25:02 am
Charity and Cryptson were married today! They both looked so happy, I think it's the first time I've seen Cryptson actually smile. There was a great reception after the ceremony, and everypony had fun. I made sure I didn't drink too much, passing out would likely see me in wing extensions again. I still have no idea who made them, Thunder Splinter looked just as surprised as me when she saw me in them after my hospital visit a while ago.
More of Khenal's Book
Huh. Now that I've settled on what to call you, I need a way to differentiate these writings, my Book. A whole bunch of ponies immigrated to GlitterGlen, and with new faces came the return of the awkward looks when I work. Well, the others came to accept me, so I'll just try to ignore the uncomfortable moments until these new ponies adjust. Cryptson has been busy digging out rooms for everypony and Thunder is busy making beds. I wonder if she needs any help?
***
Have any of the other named ponies made any interesting friends/romances?
Post by: Zaerosz on September 22, 2011, 04:43:14 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 25, 2011, 04:27:00 am
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Ironya%20and%20Firelordsky.png)
newly claimed pony desription
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
23rd Slate, 95
Bokbon Razotstertar, our broker, and Unicorn Bone carver, has been distant, she hasn't talked to anypony recently, I tried to talk to her but she ignored me. It's almost as if...
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Bokbon%20withdraws.png)
Addendum
That crazy pony ran off and barricaded herself in her workshop. She then ran off and grabbed an entire Water Buffalo Calf's skeleton, and a stack of logs from the kapok tree. She continues to work secretly and hasn't yet come back out.
27th Slate, 95
Bokbon finally came out of her workshop today, she seems to have made the finest door I have ever seen, she calls it Crazywax. It's made of bone and wood, all worked as if by a master. She claims to have had the idea for it several days ago, and needed to see if she could do. And by the gods she has. I think this will do nicely as the door to Cryptson and mine's new room.
My dad made a sketch of the door after I mentioned it. It isn't colored or inked, and it's on lined paper, but I thought you'd still want to see it so here you go.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
11th Felsite, 95
I've heard that Khenal's been asking Thundersplinter to help out with the carpentry work. We set up a second carpenter's workshop, but Thundersplinter just has him turning out wooden blocks. Say's Khenal isn't ready to make anything more complicated, but I think Thundersplinter is just trying to get another pony to help her with her dream of a wooden tower/landing pad.
11th Felsite, 95 addendum
Ironya, gave birth today, to a bouncing baby Pegasus boy. I haven't heard what the parents are going to name him, but Friesden says the child is healthy and that's what's most important.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Ironya%20gives%20birth.png)
To the individual who claimed Ironya, I will allow you to give a nickname to your child, if you so desire.
Here's your baby.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
18th Felsite, 95
A filthy Keshi, foal snatcher snuck into the fortress today. Thank the gods they were spotted before they got to any of the children. According to the ponies that saw it, it was wearing the symbols of 'The Bearded Devil' a Diomedian pony civilization, known to operate in the Failed Jungles. It ran off as the militia chased after him. One of our marksponies in training, was the only one to engage the thief, but was unsuccessful in harming him, most likely because he ran out with his quiver empty and attempted to bash the thief's, head in with his -honey badger pegasi bone crossbow- to no effect. In fact the only injury sustained by anypony was a cut to the right rear leg of the charging 'markspony.' I've asked Starkey to have a talk with him about how she isn't in the melee squad any more and should learn to stop acting like it, once she gets out of the hospital that is.
Regardless, the Diomedian ponies definitely know we're here now. I went out and stood on the wall later. Thundersplinters, and that other woodcutter have clear cut a lot of jungle around our walls, I think an archer tower or two could be helpful, as they would have a clear line of sight over a large area, knowing that Thundersplinter has long desired a tower of wood, I told her I will allow her to begin construction, if she submits to allowing for fortifications to be placed in the second and third floors.
21st Felsite, 95
Another Snatcher came today, this one didn't get as far as she was spotted by Shasad as they were cutting trees. The militia was called up, but were unable to catch him, Khenal got just close enough to be disappointed in losing his trail. Two thieves have come and two have escaped, this paints a poor image of our defenses, I worry that they might decide to start sending out their twisted ponies in greater numbers. Cinderspark is working to outfit our troops with bronze armor but we just don't have enough copper or tin, we only got a little from the caravan, thus, our dwindling leather supply is being used to try and patch the holes left by our lack of metal, as are the bones and shells being worked by Bokbon, but neither leather nor unicorn magic worked bone will protect a pony from the iron blades of the Diomedians.
Pony List
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Haspen on September 25, 2011, 04:30:18 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on September 25, 2011, 05:00:47 am
That bothersome pony, Khenal, who seems to delight in wasting my time and annoying me with endless inanities, has finally been put to work in the secondary carpenter's workshop. I don't trust him with any real tools, or projects for that matter, so he's slowly kicking out wooden blocks. Slowly because, he charges off every now and then, probably chasing horseflies or butterpegasi, feckless colt - wouldn't know what a real day's work involved.
Anyway, so many migrant ponies arrived, I've got orders for beds that will take me weeks to put together, I will have to move my own bed near the workshop just to save time. Then there will be a whole raft of barrels for alcohol, maybe I should suggest to Khenal that he go and bother the brewer instead. He might redeem himself if he makes some decent midnight berry wine for me.
Signing off for now,
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: Khenal on September 25, 2011, 11:06:33 pm
I figure chapters are as good a way as marking entries in you as anything, Book. Huh, I guess everything before this counts as a prologue. There was another party today as Ironya had a baby! Ironya is our main weaponsmith, and she's married to FireLordSky. I think he's the one I helped with farming a few times? There's getting to be so many ponies I'm having trouble keeping up.
Chapter 2
The Diomedians know we're here. There have been at least two foalnappers spotted in the last few days. Neither seems to have been able to get close to the little ones, but it's very worrying. I almost caught one, but I lost him in the dense jungle that borders us. I really hope we don't see any more of them, our foals deserve to live without the fear of being taken.
I've also been helping Thunder Splinter with the woodworking. I'm not very good, so she just has me making blocks while she makes beautiful beds. It's nice, working with wood. I've never had a chance to actually make anything before, even just blocks. There's getting to be enough ponies that odd jobs are dwindling, I should probably settle into a civilian profession soon. I really like the military, and will stick with it, but I should at least have something to do between shifts instead of just sitting around. Maybe I'll apply for a carpentry job? Or maybe try brewing first, Thunder Splinter seems to think I'd be good at that. Wont know unless I try!
****
Uh-oh, snatchers! I wonder how hard the diomedians will be to actually fight?
Also: New Named Pony! Here's Benoni, our latest farmerpony!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on September 25, 2011, 11:25:14 pm
Post by: BowlSoldier on September 26, 2011, 12:32:38 am
They're the equivalent of Goblins, only 20% cooler.Fixed.
Post by: Khenal on September 26, 2011, 12:38:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on September 26, 2011, 01:45:13 am
Post by: Theropod Watcher on September 27, 2011, 01:56:21 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on September 28, 2011, 12:30:27 pm
Was thinking the cheesemaker, but if you were planning on using that one, guess the fisherpony.
Working on the machine Freisden will use to kill somepony. Will take time as I'm still waiting on Cryptson to dig out the area, bedrooms taking up all of his time. The fisherpony is fine as your victim, but I think the Female Earthpony wife and mother, might lead to more fun, but if the victim having wings or a horn is important to you, the fisher it is. Since a drop won't work well on fliers, I'm going with an upright spike trap (probably menacing wooden spikes as metal is scarce), tied to a lever, on the other side of a clear glass window (giving you an excellent view of the carnage). As I stated before, I'll use burrows to make sure Freisden pulls the lever, and not somepony else.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 01, 2011, 11:40:40 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 20th Hematite, 95
Construction has officially began upon Thundersplinter's tower. We will hopefully finish it by the end of the year, but it is difficult to give a specific time-frame, many ponies are helping out with actual construction. Khenal, has been assigned as a permanent secondary carpenter during his down time between training. Although Starkey hasn't given him much time to do anything other than eat, sleep, and train, and that time which he does have, he almost exclusively spends on training on his own. One has to admire his discipline.
Charity's Journal 10th Malachite, 95
New immigrants. 11 of them, Better order more beds from Thundersplinter, don't think she'll like that.
Quick summary of the new guys, We got a Unicorn Ranger, she has a very pretty voice. An earth spearpony, sending her right off to Starkey. A pegasus fisherpony, not much else to say about her. Pegasus stone-worker, we don't really need anymore stone workers, but he does look pretty tough, so I sent him to Otik, he'll learn to shoot quick enough, he's married to a unicorn who's never done a day's work in her life, don't know what I'll do with her. Female pegasus weaver, don't really need another weaver, guess she can learn to shoot too. She's married to an earthpony lasher, and blacksmith, whom I'm sending to Starkey. Pegasus farmer, she seemed a little paranoid when I was interviewing her. Another pegasus with no noteworthy skills, told him to report to training with Otik in the morning. An earthpony metalcrafter, not that we have any metal for him to work with.
And finally, a Royal pony unfortunately he also, lacks any useful skills, he's apparently worked as a wood burner, and cut his own wood when he did so, he's also a decent stone carver, but we don't really have much need for more of those skills. I'm tempted to just have him report to Starkey or Otik for training. I'll think it over, in the meanwhile he can help clear more of the jungle.
Charity's Journal 11th Malachite, 95
That idiot who got cut by the first snatcher is finally about to leave the hospital soon. Unfortunately, Freisden says he's going to need a crutch in order to walk around, the bastard should thank his stars that he's got wings, at least this will hopefully teach him to grab some bolts before running off to a fight.
Sorry there where no updates all week, I had left my flash drive with the save at my parents house by accident, and only just now got it back. There will be more updates later this weekend.
Updated pony list
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 01, 2011, 10:35:09 pm
Early Malachite:
I had not even finished the last work order for beds, when Charity came into check up on Khenal's progress and inform us that more migrants had arrived, she chatted for a while and as she was leaving, left a new work order for more beds! She also told me that the tower is under way, we will finally be able to get those fliers under some sort of control - I don't want to have another 'incident' like the last one, I am still plagued by bad dreams even after all these years.
No time for a lengthy entry, lots of ponies demanding comfy beds for their rooms, and it sounds like Khenal has broken another chisel, he's lucky that he is getting better at making the blocks or I'd ask Charity to re-assign him to a workshop where he can't break tools - and I'm still looking for the mallet he lost last week.
ThunderSplinter.
[OOC]
Can we get a list of our ponies major skills?
[/OOC]
Edit: fixed an idiot mistake.
Post by: Dsarker on October 02, 2011, 12:02:17 am
We have nearly done it, we have! The trap is nearly completed. Now to send that earth pony the mayor saddled us with away and we can lure our prey into our trap. Soon we shall be able to extend Khenal's wings properly. Haha. HaHa. AHAHAHAHAhahahahaAHAHAHA. Our precious will be more useful. HAHAHAHAHAHAHHA.
PS. HAHAHAHA!!!!
Friesden.
Post by: Khenal on October 02, 2011, 05:34:43 am
I am most certainly not cut out to be a brewer. I have no idea what to call what's inside that barrel other than... I dont know! I chiseled "Do not open Ever!" into the side as a precaution so nopony would try to drink it before it can be disposed of. Hopefully it'll get dropped into magma or something. Even worse, I managed to somehow snap the handle of the mallet I used when I missed the chisel. I've gotten better at the very basics of woodworking, but I clearly need more practice before I can graduate from blocks. I told Thunder Splinter I had lost the mallet and I plan to replace it. More accurately, I plan to pay for the replacement. It's not like I have the skill to actually make a new one.
There were a bunch of new arrivals recently, and several of them have joined the military! There's even another alicorn around! Well, another full grown alicorn. One of the families that immigrated a while ago had an alicorn foal. I didn't think genetics worked that way, but I am obviously wrong.
The new recruits (though they look pretty experienced to me) looked surprised that I was in the military. I was so excited to learn that one of them also used a spear! There was the usual period of awkwardness of ponies who don't know me, but we seemed to get through it quickly, Starkey's training sessions are too exhausting to allow for that. We traded tired smiles with eachother when Captain Starkey dismissed us for the day.
*****
Heh, Khenal is going to freak right out when those "proper" wing extensions appear. Please make it clear if they are proper functioning wing extensions or grisly ornaments when you put them on. Either way should be interesting to deal with. I'll use the pony creator for the new pony tomorrow. For now: Bed.
Post by: Dsarker on October 02, 2011, 05:40:28 am
Post by: Khenal on October 02, 2011, 01:26:33 pm
Theropod Watcher, our new engraver!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 02, 2011, 03:16:51 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 02, 2011, 06:16:39 pm
A flock of Honey Badger Pegasi have been spotted south of the wall. While they haven't shown any hostilities toward our settlement yet. Starkey has decided that dealing with them will be an excellent training opportunity for our new recruits, and I have decided to allow this little hunting trip of his.
Charity's Journal 17th Malachite 95
The ever increasing pile of Honey Badger pony/pegasi corpses has been taking up all of our butchers time up. They are butchering them slower than we are acquiring more of them, most are rotten before they even get to the chopping block, perhaps we should set up a second butchers so two butchers can work at the same time.
Charity's Journal 18th Galena 95
A caravan of traders has been spotted in the jungle making their way towards us. Hopefully they will have metals to trade us. I'm sending Starkey's squad to escort them in, while stationing the First Airborne Squadron on the walls. It would be unfortunate if the Diomedian's were to strike now, and I will not be caught unawares.
Charity's Journal 19th Galena 95
While no ambushes were spotted before the traders arrived our Unicorn Ranger reported seeing a tentacle pony (a scout? or another snatcher?) while she was returning from hunting, she chased it off and hit it once in the leg with a bolt, but it managed to escape as well.
Charity's Journal 8th Limestone 95
Another Diomedian foal snatcher, got all the way inside our walls, and down the stairs, but bumped into Starkey as he was leaving the barracks to get a drink, it managed to get a few hits in on some of our less experienced recruits, though nothing life threatening, before it was killed, just inside the foundations of the wooden tower. I'm lead to believe that it was Khenal who finished the thing off with a stab to the head with his new Steel Spear, he should thank Ironya for her craftponyship, and Cindy for that copper peytrel that saved him from a bronze dagger to the heart. Only injuries worth reporting was from one of the recruits from the Markspony squad that got to close, he's in the hospital with a cut on his hoof, looks like we'll have another limping Pegasus.
Charity's Journal 22nd Limestone 95
Strange, our stockpiles seem to be missing certain materials, including a clear glass window I was planning on installing in the dinning room, three high quality stone mechanisms, and the copper spear Khenal used to use. I've asked around and nopony knows where they've been placed. I had a talk with the haulers about proper procedures and hopefully this sort of misplacement won't happen again.
Charity's Journal 27th Limestone 95
Now we have a missing pony. Nopony has seen efim the fisherpegasus since early yesterday. We assume he met something unfortunate while fishing, but strangely nopony saw him leave. He was last seen heading down toward the inside of the fort. Regardless, I'm sending the airborne squadron out on patrol, maybe they can find him, or what's left of him.
Charity's Journal 12th Sandstone 95
We've decided to add a public shower to the lower dining hall, unfortunately, Ironya and her husband Firelordsky have moved into the room directly above where we want it to go, so the water is going to be flowing through half of their room. Hope they don't mind, there room was over-sized anyway. We'll be tapping into that aquifer, (glad to get something positive out of the thing) and draining the water into the cavern lake, it seems to flow a long way away from here so it shouldn't flood the caves.
Charity's Secret Jounal 12th Sandstone 95
Cryptson, that wonderful stallion, has dug off a second small tunnel from the main water route for the shower, in order to redirect some of it to our room, for our own private shower, it's good to be the Overseer.
Charity's Journal 2nd Timber 95
More ponies have arrived. Only eight this time. Pegasus brewer, although I think she'll do better in the crossbow squad. An earthpony High Master Armorer, I wonder what Cindy will think about this, first Ironya shows, up and makes better weapons, and now a Master Armorer shows up. He's also married to an earthpony knife-fighter, sending her off to see Starkey for assignment. Another, earthpony metal crafter, but with less experience than those we already have, he's a bit of a tough looking guy though so, we're drafting him too. An earthpony butcher, an earthpony tanner, and an earthpony dyer. And a pegasan fisher pony.
Addendum
Speaking of Pegasn fisherponies, efim has not been found yet, dead or alive.
[OOC]
Can we get a list of our ponies major skills?
[/OOC]
Yeah, I can do that with the next update. What in particular are you interested in? Just the labor and combat skills? Or did you want to see the social skills as well?
As you may have guessed from the above, Friesden has succeeded in luring poor efim to a grisly fate as the copper spear repeated sprang from the ground cutting him to pieces as Friesden repeatedly pulled the lever, again and again, I have the complete combat logs, if anyone wants to see them, but they aren't that interesting and it took five pages of stabs to kill the Pegasus, final blow was a stab to the upper body, which pierced an artery near the heart causing instant bleed out.
I haven't moved the body yet, it's sitting behind a locked door. Friesden any requests of what I do with it?
I did however take this screen-shot of the aftermath. It seems that the window and all the walls are just coated with blood now. The pony in the picture is Friesden just seconds after his victim's demise. Doesn't he just look ecstatic. You can't see the body at the moment because it's displaying a piece of his clothing, but I can assure you he is there, or what's left of him is.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/The%20aftermath.png)
Post by: Dsarker on October 02, 2011, 06:43:03 pm
They all suspect us. Do you suspect us, diary? Do you? DO YOU? I can't abide traitors in our search for greatness. Now to clean the wings from the pegasus. We're good enough as a surgeon to attach them fully to Khenal....just have to wait until he's injured. Waitwait. We must seal off the trap. After removing the body. At night, when the pegasus patrol is asleep, we must dump the body, without the wings of course ;) and let the badgers eat it. We must find the next badger pegasus swarm and lure them to the body.
Khenal will be so happy with the wings! Now he'll be able to lift off from the wall. We can't wait till he's injured. We must dose the alcohol again, while they're off patrolling. They wouldn't understand us. We must do this... WE MUST!
PS. We know you don't trust us, Diary, but we wouldn't hurt you! We promise!
Love, Friesden! XOXOX
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 02, 2011, 06:48:05 pm
[OOC]
Can we get a list of our ponies major skills?
[/OOC]
Yeah, I can do that with the next update. What in particular are you interested in? Just the labor and combat skills? Or did you want to see the social skills as well?
Only the labour and combat skills, thanx.
[/OOC]
From the diary of ThunderSplinter,
Early Limestone.
"Snatcher!" The alert sent a chill through me, and it had sounded close, Khenal was out on training with Starkey so I had to fend for myself if the foalsnatcher made the mistake of heading my way. Thankfully the all-clear was sounded soon after and Khenal was prancing around with his still blood-stained spear, despite his attitude, a lot of ponies are grateful for his growing skills in combat.
Late Limestone.
Almost everypony has been asked to keep an eye out for one of new migrants, we're getting so many ambushes lately, it wouldn't surprise me if the fisherpony is in a Diomedian cooking pot somewhere, but I hope the searchers find him.
Early Timber.
Finally. All the beds on order have been finished and I can now relax with a good drink and some cupcakes - absolutely nothing could ruin this moment, not even the sound of Khenal breaking yet another chisel. (Fortunately he's in combat training so the workshops are blissfully quiet)
Addendum.
Spoke to soon, diary. I was just settling down with a second serving of cupcakes when Charity informed me that we have more migrants, she didn't even have to tell me to get back to work making more beds. Sometimes, only rarely mind, I wish Khenal could be trusted to tackle more complicated projects without constant supervision - I wonder how Starkey copes with him?
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 02, 2011, 09:33:43 pm
Hi book! My name is Venture!
My Mommy gave you to me today cause she says I'm so special for learning too wright so young and stuff. I didn't know what to wright so Daddy said to wright about how we got to new home. We walk a really, really REALLY far with a bunch of other ponies to get here. My legs were SO tired and I don't know how to fly but mommy says there are pegisusses that can teach me in new home so it's OK. There's another pony here that looks like me with wings and a horn so I got really scared. Even more scared then in the hot scary forest cause I thought he was going to take me away from mommy and daddy again like the other ponies with horns and wing that got all loud at daddy, but mommy says that pony is OK so Im not so scared now. Daddy says that we had to leave old home because the other ponies with wings and horns were angry that mommy and daddy were earth ponies but that’s stupid so we went away one night with a bunch of other ponies so we can go be a family together because that important and I don't want go away from mommy and daddy and my brother forever.
I don't like new home very much. The forest is really scary and hot and wet and there are all sort of scary things inside it. All the ponies live in the ground witch is really funny because ponies should live In houses not in the ground! Me and my brother want to play outside but mommy and daddy say it's not safe so we have to stay in the ground all the time. It's really super boring in the ground cause there’s nothing to do and me and my brother can't go into most of the tunnels cause were not old engulf yet and daddy and mommy are always working and stuff so we just got to sit and be bored and stuff. Some times we can play tag or catch with rocks but the adults tell us to stop running so that sucks too. Some times the Adults yell SNATCHER and then we have to go hide until the mommy or daddy find us so that’s fun except that there always crying wen they find us but I don't know why.
I have to go book, somepony just yelled SNATCHER so I have to hide again.
Bye!
My Mommy gave you to me today cause she says I'm so special for learning too wright so young and stuff. I didn't know what to wright so Daddy said to wright about how we got to new home. We walk a really, really REALLY far with a bunch of other ponies to get here. My legs were SO tired and I don't know how to fly but mommy says there are pegisusses that can teach me in new home so it's OK. There's another pony here that looks like me with wings and a horn so I got really scared. Even more scared then in the hot scary forest cause I thought he was going to take me away from mommy and daddy again like the other ponies with horns and wing that got all loud at daddy, but mommy says that pony is OK so Im not so scared now. Daddy says that we had to leave old home because the other ponies with wings and horns were angry that mommy and daddy were earth ponies but that’s stupid so we went away one night with a bunch of other ponies so we can go be a family together because that important and I don't want go away from mommy and daddy and my brother forever.
I don't like new home very much. The forest is really scary and hot and wet and there are all sort of scary things inside it. All the ponies live in the ground witch is really funny because ponies should live In houses not in the ground! Me and my brother want to play outside but mommy and daddy say it's not safe so we have to stay in the ground all the time. It's really super boring in the ground cause there’s nothing to do and me and my brother can't go into most of the tunnels cause were not old engulf yet and daddy and mommy are always working and stuff so we just got to sit and be bored and stuff. Some times we can play tag or catch with rocks but the adults tell us to stop running so that sucks too. Some times the Adults yell SNATCHER and then we have to go hide until the mommy or daddy find us so that’s fun except that there always crying wen they find us but I don't know why.
I have to go book, somepony just yelled SNATCHER so I have to hide again.
Bye!
Can I also get some info on the other foals in the fort too, especially the sibling? (brother until noted otherwise) Thinking I might get some crazy kid antics up in here! Cutie Mark Crusaders Fortress Foals! YAY! :P
Post by: Khenal on October 03, 2011, 05:13:06 am
I don't like badgerpegasi. Apparently, neither does Captain Starkey. He had us hunting them for training for the last few days. Moving as a squad took getting used to, but we've killed several of them. The bodies are waiting for the butcher. I think I'll stick to fruits and veggies for a while. It just feels weird to eat badgerpegasus meat.
Chapter 5
The caravan was spotted today, and we were dispatched to escort them in. Everypony was on edge worrying about a possible Diomedian attack on the caravan. Happily, all was quiet. I think the caravan brought a lot of metal, we've been getting new equipment. I really like this new spear. I'd love if it never had to be used, but I know it will help protect GlitterGlen.
Chapter 6
Snatchers have returned. One was spotted early and chased off. The other, however, actually made it down almost past the barracks! Captain Starkey spotted the would-be foalnapper and yelled the warning before giving chase. He had it cornered and we finished it off. I christened my new spear with Diomedian blood and brains. The others are giving me credit for the kill, but I think the Captain had given it a mortal wound already. All I did was make it stop moving. I'm just glad the Captain was the one to spot it. I didn't notice until later that night, but the Diomedian had given my new copper armor a good gash. If anypony but the Captain had found it, I fear somepony would have gotten that dagger in their heart.
I noticed something else concerning that night: my old spear was gone. At first, I thought it was simply melted to be used as something else, maybe even my new armor. But the other old equipment was still in the armory. I hope I'm just being paranoid, but I can't help but be concerned. I don't know why, but it's disappearance reminds me of the strange business of those wooden wing extensions. I really hope it's nothing. After all, it's been a long time since I've woken up with anything weird on my wings.
*****
Awesome! This thread is shaping up to be really great. And thanks so much Khenal!
No problem! I like that pony creator, and I like having pictures to associate with the ponies :)
Post by: Dsarker on October 03, 2011, 05:30:03 am
Now to dye these wings we have, yes yes! We must order dye...but what justification can we gi- We've got it! We need proper uniforms so that if some bad stuff happens the blood won't be seen! Red dye will be ours!hahahahahaHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
PS. We know you're reading! Look behind you!
PPS. Hahahahaha! Got you! Hahahaha! Actually, there is something behind you now. Just close your eyes, it'll all be over soon....HAHAHAHAA! GOT YOU AGAIN!
PPPS. Did you really think we'd do it? Hahahaha! We only do it to useless pegasi...are you a useless pegasi? No? Then you don't need to fear us! HAHAHAHAHAHA!
Love, Friesden.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 04, 2011, 02:39:03 pm
Here is Venture's info and below is her Big Brother. I think ponies grow up faster than dwarves? In my other fortress I think it was around 5 or 6 years of age, so Venture's Big Brother is nearly grown, in I remember correctly. Also, the only other foal in the fort is Ironya's baby pegasus boy, which I posted awhile back. It's still a newborn and thus sticking to it's mother but I'll be sure to note when it becomes a child. But don't worry, I'm sure there will be plenty of kids running around soon enough.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
And Starkey now has a war Grizzly Bear, that recently gave birth, she's named Etol Astelrithlut.
I've decided to include in this update some of the god/goddesses of the fortress, for reference, in case anyone cares.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
And finally a more detailed list of the skills of all the named ponies.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Haspen on October 04, 2011, 04:03:46 pm
Also if Ironya's kid shall be kidnapped or otherwise harmed, this expert weaponsmith will arrange an 'accident' that will include several *iron axe*'s and couple of military ponies.
Post by: Khenal on October 04, 2011, 04:54:45 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Maybe set a few wooden spike weapon traps at the entrances to ensure foal safety? In my experience, thieves may be trap immune, but snatchers will happily impale themselves on whatever traps are laying around.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 04, 2011, 10:02:29 pm
Hmmm, what enemies we have, except goblins?
Also if Ironya's kid shall be kidnapped or otherwise harmed, this expert weaponsmith will arrange an 'accident' that will include several *iron axe*'s and couple of military ponies.
No goblins in this mod, just Diomedian (spelling?) Ponies, which are basically just goblin ponies. In terms of other dangers, I embarked in a Terrifying area, but the only even slightly dangerous wildlife I've seen are Honey Badger Ponies/Pegasi which aren't even strong enough to threaten an unarmed pony, I'm actually kind of disappointed, last time I played in an evil biome, in vanilla, the fort was destroyed by three Ogres, before the end of the first summer, I learned a lot from that failure.
From the embark information we should get visitors from the Buffalo, Zebra, Ponies, Cave Ponies, and Rainbow Ponies civilizations in addition to the Diomedians. However thus far we have only seen caravans from the Ponies, and the Zebras, however it's early in the forts life yet, others will arrive soon, I'm sure. Our civilization isn't currently at war with any other civs, but that could change after we mine some Diomedimite, and get some more iron. I might antagonize the Buffalo if I'm feeling confident, after all Buffalo have no cutie mark, they have no purpose in life, they are worthless, and good for nothing other than making meat cupcakes, skull totems, and bone bolts. (Modded ethics to allow butchering of enemies, that Diomedian Snatcher Khenal killed could end up in a Big Tasty Stew, assuming the butchers get to it before it rots, they've been busy busting up rotten badger corpses into bones.)
And I don't think Ironya has to worry about her baby much. After that last near slip up I'm going to take a few extra measures to ensure future snatchers don't get the chance to get as close.
Post by: Dsarker on October 04, 2011, 10:09:41 pm
Hmmm, what enemies we have, except goblins?
Also if Ironya's kid shall be kidnapped or otherwise harmed, this expert weaponsmith will arrange an 'accident' that will include several *iron axe*'s and couple of military ponies.
No goblins in this mod, just Diomedian (spelling?) Ponies, which are basically just goblin ponies. In terms of other dangers, I embarked in a Terrifying area, but the only even slightly dangerous wildlife I've seen are Honey Badger Ponies/Pegasi which aren't even strong enough to threaten an unarmed pony, I'm actually kind of disappointed, last time I played in an evil biome, in vanilla, the fort was destroyed by three Ogres, before the end of the first summer, I learned a lot from that failure.
From the embark information we should get visitors from the Buffalo, Zebra, Ponies, Cave Ponies, and Rainbow Ponies civilizations in addition to the Diomedians. However thus far we have only seen caravans from the Ponies, and the Zebras, however it's early in the forts life yet, others will arrive soon, I'm sure. Our civilization isn't currently at war with any other civs, but that could change after we mine some Diomedimite, and get some more iron. I might antagonize the Buffalo if I'm feeling confident, after all Buffalo have no cutie mark, they have no purpose in life, they are worthless, and good for nothing other than making meat cupcakes, skull totems, and bone bolts. (Modded ethics to allow butchering of enemies, that Diomedian Snatcher Khenal killed could end up in a Big Tasty Stew, assuming the butchers get to it before it rots, they've been busy busting up rotten badger corpses into bones.)
And I don't think Ironya has to worry about her baby much. After that last near slip up I'm going to take a few extra measures to ensure future snatchers don't get the chance to get as close.
Have you seen the mentally advanced MLP series?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 04, 2011, 10:29:57 pm
Have you seen the mentally advanced MLP series?
Yes, and it is one of my favorite abridged series, and yes I was referencing what Pinkie Pie said to Gilda, about griffins, in her episode. I also liked Friendship is Witchcraft, (another abridged series) but not quite as much. Anyway, will try to update again, tomorrow after class. Apologies again about the slow rate of stuff, physics and math classes keeping me busy, so I don't have as much time as I'd like.
Post by: Dsarker on October 04, 2011, 11:05:37 pm
Have you seen the mentally advanced MLP series?
Yes, and it is one of my favorite abridged series, and yes I was referencing what Pinkie Pie said to Gilda, about griffins, in her episode. I also liked Friendship is Witchcraft, (another abridged series) but not quite as much. Anyway, will try to update again, tomorrow after class. Apologies again about the slow rate of stuff, physics and math classes keeping me busy, so I don't have as much time as I'd like.
Did think you were :P
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 05, 2011, 02:03:08 am
Cheerz,
Darkening Kaos, CIS.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 05, 2011, 09:46:44 am
Thanks for the info, KingStrongbeard, didn't know ThunderSplinter had any combat skills, that changes a few things.
Cheerz,
Darkening Kaos, CIS.
He didn't have any originally, but all of the starting 7 have at least Dabbling due to the initial Honey Badger Pegasi attack. Thundersplinter also has one kill from that attack if I'm not mistaken.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 05, 2011, 11:43:12 am
Hi again book! It's me Venture!
I just remembered that I forgot to tell you about my family! Sorry about that, I can be really forgetful sometimes. Well first there's my mommy and daddy. Daddy is the best carpenter EVER! He use to make really pretty bed and doors and all sorts of stuff back home. I mean old home, sorry book. Mommy used to sing and dance for the noble ponies back home because she was so pretty and was the best singer in the whole town and even teaches me how to sing really good too. Some times she would come home really late at night crying or hurt or both after dancing for the nobles and daddy would get super angry at them and start saying lots of bad words about them and taking out his ax but mommy would always say that there was nothing they could do and it was just how things were, and then they would both start crying and hugging and ----
Sorry book, I wanna wright about something else now.
Then there's my brother who is a unicorn so he has a horn but no wings like me. His name is Peytrel, like the armor thing. He's older than me and some times he can be SUPER MEAN!! Like when he uses his magic to carry icky gross spiders and chase me around with them like a jerk, or when he wants to play adventurer and bandit and I'm ALWAYS the bandit! He hits way too hard with his stick and he can use magic but I cant so hes way better! He says he has to hit hard so he can learn to be a soldier some day but I tell him he's too pudgy to be a soldire and then we get into a huge fight and we both get sent to time out and it was so not my fault! Other times he can be nice too, like how he tell's me bead-time stories when mommy and daddy are too busy with work and how he is always the first pony to come when I have my wired bad dreams and the one time he bucked one of those big mean ponies when they were trying to take me away because I have wings and a horn. He is a really brave pony and I don't say it, but I think he will be the best most super brave soldier ever!
New home has lotsa other ponies too. There's the big green pony that's like me. His name is Khenal and he is super nice and strong andhansom nice. He has been doing lots of jobs around the fort but he said that if he has time he would teach me some magic! He has a book too that he calls "his Book", so that's why I call you book. He is so Awsum!
There's no other foals like me in new home but there is this little Pegasus newborn that is SO CUTIE! With his little tail and tinny wings and his soooo adorable laugh! I can't remember his name but I like to call him "Bubbly" because of his laughing.
There's also Ms. Charity and Mr. Cryptson. Ms. Charity is bossy and Mr. Cyptson is kinda creepy so I stay away from them.
Starkey is the militacomsti commisi comisar boss pony. He always wheres this shiny armor and is a great fighter! My brother is always trying to talk to him and folwos him around sometimes. I don't think he even notice's him, but my brother is stubborn as a mule and he'll keep going until he dose notice him. Ms. ThunderSplinter says she is the best carpenter here but I know my daddy is way better! She wants to build a big wood tower that sounds super cool! Dr. Friesden is the midcal medical pony and has this funny eye twitch.
There's lots of others like Theropod and Benoni and Pillomino and... some others I can't remember but I'm running out of room so I'll stop now.
Goodnight book!
---------------------------I just remembered that I forgot to tell you about my family! Sorry about that, I can be really forgetful sometimes. Well first there's my mommy and daddy. Daddy is the best carpenter EVER! He use to make really pretty bed and doors and all sorts of stuff back home. I mean old home, sorry book. Mommy used to sing and dance for the noble ponies back home because she was so pretty and was the best singer in the whole town and even teaches me how to sing really good too. Some times she would come home really late at night crying or hurt or both after dancing for the nobles and daddy would get super angry at them and start saying lots of bad words about them and taking out his ax but mommy would always say that there was nothing they could do and it was just how things were, and then they would both start crying and hugging and ----
Sorry book, I wanna wright about something else now.
Then there's my brother who is a unicorn so he has a horn but no wings like me. His name is Peytrel, like the armor thing. He's older than me and some times he can be SUPER MEAN!! Like when he uses his magic to carry icky gross spiders and chase me around with them like a jerk, or when he wants to play adventurer and bandit and I'm ALWAYS the bandit! He hits way too hard with his stick and he can use magic but I cant so hes way better! He says he has to hit hard so he can learn to be a soldier some day but I tell him he's too pudgy to be a soldire and then we get into a huge fight and we both get sent to time out and it was so not my fault! Other times he can be nice too, like how he tell's me bead-time stories when mommy and daddy are too busy with work and how he is always the first pony to come when I have my wired bad dreams and the one time he bucked one of those big mean ponies when they were trying to take me away because I have wings and a horn. He is a really brave pony and I don't say it, but I think he will be the best most super brave soldier ever!
New home has lotsa other ponies too. There's the big green pony that's like me. His name is Khenal and he is super nice and strong and
There's no other foals like me in new home but there is this little Pegasus newborn that is SO CUTIE! With his little tail and tinny wings and his soooo adorable laugh! I can't remember his name but I like to call him "Bubbly" because of his laughing.
There's also Ms. Charity and Mr. Cryptson. Ms. Charity is bossy and Mr. Cyptson is kinda creepy so I stay away from them.
Starkey is the milita
There's lots of others like Theropod and Benoni and Pillomino and... some others I can't remember but I'm running out of room so I'll stop now.
Goodnight book!
That's right Ironya, I just nik-named yo babby! Hope it's OK.
Post by: Haspen on October 05, 2011, 11:54:04 am
Actually, King Strongbeard, name my first kiddo 'Bubel' :D
Post by: thetyler101 on October 05, 2011, 12:26:47 pm
---------------------------------------
Book, something really scary happened today.
When I was down in the tunnels way below the ground I heard these wired sounds. I got scared because it was weird and I didn't know what it was, but then I thought that it might be a pony in trouble, trapped under a rock or something, so I ran towards the sound as fast a I could but when I got there it wasn't a pony at all! It was a HUGE ENORMOUS SPIDER THAT WAS ON FIRE!!!
I screamed and ran away as fast as I could but it chased me and was so fast that it almost got me! I ran for a long time and got lost cause no other pony was around and I ran into the tome of some pony named Lolum that Khenal had told me about. I though that I was donefor for sure, but then some big strong pony with grey wings yelled at the giant fire spider to leave me alone. The spider charged at him and there was this huge awssome battle as he fought the spider! He was like Raaaaaggaaa!! and kicking it a bunch of times and it was all like SKAWWWKAKAKWKAWAAA!! and it snapped at him and spit fire at him it was so cool i wish my brother was there he would have really liked it so COOL!!! But the the spider hit him agenst the wall super hard and was going to stab him with its claw when he SHOT MAGIC RAINBOW FIRE OUT OF HIS MOUTH AND BURNED IT TO A SMALL PILE OF ASHES!!!! It. Was. Awesome!
Afterward he came up to me and asked me if I was OK. He was really happy I was and made me promise not to play in the tunnels anymore but before I could say thank you he disapired! Then my brother and daddy and a bunch of other ponies came running in and blamed ME for knocking over the sarcofigufus and other stuff in the tomb. I told them about the big fight and the spider and stuff but they didn't believe me. I got spanked a lot and got sent to bed with no supper AND I have to wash all the floors all by myself!
You believe me though, don't you Book?
-----------------------------------------------When I was down in the tunnels way below the ground I heard these wired sounds. I got scared because it was weird and I didn't know what it was, but then I thought that it might be a pony in trouble, trapped under a rock or something, so I ran towards the sound as fast a I could but when I got there it wasn't a pony at all! It was a HUGE ENORMOUS SPIDER THAT WAS ON FIRE!!!
I screamed and ran away as fast as I could but it chased me and was so fast that it almost got me! I ran for a long time and got lost cause no other pony was around and I ran into the tome of some pony named Lolum that Khenal had told me about. I though that I was donefor for sure, but then some big strong pony with grey wings yelled at the giant fire spider to leave me alone. The spider charged at him and there was this huge awssome battle as he fought the spider! He was like Raaaaaggaaa!! and kicking it a bunch of times and it was all like SKAWWWKAKAKWKAWAAA!! and it snapped at him and spit fire at him it was so cool i wish my brother was there he would have really liked it so COOL!!! But the the spider hit him agenst the wall super hard and was going to stab him with its claw when he SHOT MAGIC RAINBOW FIRE OUT OF HIS MOUTH AND BURNED IT TO A SMALL PILE OF ASHES!!!! It. Was. Awesome!
Afterward he came up to me and asked me if I was OK. He was really happy I was and made me promise not to play in the tunnels anymore but before I could say thank you he disapired! Then my brother and daddy and a bunch of other ponies came running in and blamed ME for knocking over the sarcofigufus and other stuff in the tomb. I told them about the big fight and the spider and stuff but they didn't believe me. I got spanked a lot and got sent to bed with no supper AND I have to wash all the floors all by myself!
You believe me though, don't you Book?
Super fun near death experience! Yay!
Also, Dsarker keep a hold on the pair of wings, I have an idea for another adventure involving them. Don't worry, Friesden won't get found out at all! Not even the foals will figure it out with it starring them in the face.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 05, 2011, 02:11:30 pm
That little shadow of mine, Peytrel, came running up today babbling something about his little sister and some great flaming spider or somesuch. I put it off as a game of pretend - hells, I had quite the imagination as a colt - until Miss Charity came in right after him about the same thing. We found her in Lolum's tomb, with no trace of the beast.
The wierd thing is this: the filly claims she saw... well, she said a pegasus with grey wings came in and slew the beast by burning it to ash. Miss Charity and the filly's parents blew it off as an overactive imagination, and she got in trouble for disturbing Lolum's tomb. I don't buy that.
I went back to his tomb today, and I found a pile of ash and chitin in the corner. The seal on his sarcophagus is broken too. I told his old wingleader, and she agrees.
Good job son. I'm proud of you, and I'm sorry.
PS: remember to tell Khenal about Friesden. I've noticed how she watches him, lingering on his wings and... flanks, but I don't think he even sees her. Between training, guard duty, and carpentry, the kid needs something besides work to take up his time.
Post by: Khenal on October 05, 2011, 02:22:45 pm
I read through you and realized something, my Book: I haven't really written anything happy in you. Like any book, you should give a good impression of what's going on, and I've done you wrong. I haven't mentioned how happy I am here, how so much better life is here than at the Capital. I don't know a whole lot of ponies personally here, but everyone is friendly. The few foals around Glitterglen are adorable. Past adorable. Like diabetes and a heart attack from cuteness.
Huh. I am not a poet, that's a terrible analogy.
Venture and Peytrel, the little alicorn and unicorn respectively, really bring life to this place. Peytrel wants to join the military when he grows up and is constantly trying to get tips from Captain Starkey. Venture noticed me writing in you, my Book, and asked what I was doing. I explained about you and she seemed almost awestruck. The next day, I saw her carrying around a little book of her own. She's also asked me to teach her magic. I'm nothing special when it comes to magic, though I do know that alicorn magic is different from unicorn magic. I'll try my best, but I think she needs to be a bit older before she'll be able to do much.
Chapter 8
Lolum still watches and protects us. Nopony was too worried when Venture couldnt be found, at least at first. She's quite energetic and her and Peytrel are often off exploring the depths of the fortress. When her brother asked where she was, then we worried. Diomedian snatchers always came in twos, never threes. Right?
Please?
Crashing sounds from Lolum's tomb had us all galloping as fast as our hooves would take us. Inside, we found little Venture. When she saw us, she started gushing excitedly about a pony with gray wings that saved her. At first I thought the Captain had found her, until she said it breathed rainbow fire and incinerated the fire spider(?) and saved her. Nopony else believed her, I don't think they noticed the little pile of ashes.
How could they not notice those scorch marks, though?! Then I thought of something: Lolum didn't want them to see. Or maybe they really couldn't see them. I thought back to my first fight with the badgerpegasi. I haven't been that collected in a fight since. I think Lolum helped me, lent me his skill against the enemies of GlitterGlen. Even beyond the grave, he is doing his part to protect these ponies. How can I do anything less?
I think I'll try showing Venture some mental exercises. She may be too young to actually channel her magic, but I can help her learn to focus and concentrate. A good foundation is important.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 05, 2011, 02:54:33 pm
The origin of this fort is that a bunch of pony criminals (in the eye's of the nobles at least, Slade beds mandates probably) were banished to this hell hole, so if news of the settlement thriving (more or less) reaches the capital, what will happen?
Demands for goods?
Cutting off trade?
Unreasonable taxes?
Taking the credit, saying this was planed all along?
Sending the more violent criminals to us?
All of the above?
DID THEY ALREADY SELL US OUT TO THE DIOMEDIANS!?!?!
Post by: Dsarker on October 05, 2011, 03:26:31 pm
We need time off. The precious does not get injured. Nopony is fighting. This frustrates us! We must ensure that something allows us to attach the precious' wing extensions to the precious soon. It will happen soon, precious, don't you worry!
In meantime, we must make sure nopony gets hurt. Is boring at the moment. Nothing to do. Nopony to practice on. Must find new goal.
PS. I don't have anything to put in my PS today.
Love, Friesden
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 06, 2011, 11:14:56 am
God's above what is that horrendous smell. I was just heading up to the surface to check on how the additions to the walls are coming along, and there is this ungodly odor pouring from the underground farms. Everypony around seems to be bothered by it as well.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Stink%21%20Stink%20In%20the%20Farms.png)
Upon reaching the surface walls I was pleasantly surprised to see a caravan of cave ponies coming, there beasts of burden heavily laden with goods. Time to trade.
The smell is gone now. No pony seems to know what it was. Someone cleaned it up I guess? Maybe a peahen egg rolled away somewhere and rotted? Or something from the Kitchen perhaps? Whatever it was it's gone now.
Charity's Journal 24th Timber 95
The Cave ponies have been quite unreasonable. They came with only one bar of steel and one bar of billion (a worthless metal, we can't even make arms or armor from it) but they had many crafts made from steel or iron or copper or bronze. Naturally, they overcharged us for their trinkets that we only intended to melt down. Afterward, we lacked the goods to trade for the cloth and leather that we also needed. So, I sent Starkey and Khenal, to take it from them, by force if necessary. Despite taking a few bins, free of charge, they still left with a profit of several thousand bits. They should be thankful for that.
Charity's Journal 28th Timber 95
Osal Habithare, one of our young military recruits, has been oftly withdrawn lately, or at least that's what his captain has told me, best to keep an eye on him I think.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/merchants%20and%20an%20artifact.png)
Charity's Journal 4th Moonstone 95
Today Osal, came galloping out of the bowyer's show, holding the finest looking crossbow I have ever seen in my lifetime. He held it aloft and declared that It's name would be his, and from now on they would be inseparable. While, I'd rather see that magnificent bow in the hands of someone who knows what there doing like Captian Otik, I admit that he did make and deserves the right to use it, especially if he can make more similar to it for the other marksponies.
Never had a boyer mood before. But now the second artifact of Glitterglen is finished, a wooden crossbow baring the name Osal Habithare. How decent are artifact crossbows? Does quality affect accuracy with fired bolts, or just for melee attacks? Forgot to take a screen shot of the description before saving and quitting, but I remember it was menacing with spikes of wood, and decorated with Lama wool cloth. I'll post the in-game description later.
Post by: Haspen on October 06, 2011, 11:28:10 am
But, shiny! :P
Post by: Dsarker on October 06, 2011, 03:30:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 06, 2011, 04:31:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 07, 2011, 01:31:18 am
Another caravan today, though this one is different; it's a cave pony caravan. Apparently, they overcharged severely for their metallic wares and Mrs. Charity asked me and Captain Starkey to "renegotiate the terms of our trade agreement." I think the Captain brought me along more for my being an alicorn than my willingness to fight these ponies. I think the Captain would have been willing to show the cave ponies the error of their greed, but I was most certainly bluffing. In the end, we procured several bins of cloth and leather from the merchants and they still obviously made a profit. I'm glad they didn't call my bluff. I would back the Captain if it actually came to blows, but I'd prefer to never stain my spear with the blood of ponies who came in peace. Even if they are ornery.
******
I have no idea what an artifact crossbow does for this version. In previous versions, they seemed to be equivalent to a machine gun in power and rate of fire. I never bothered with crossbow squads, though. I could never get them to remember to bring bolts.
Minor edit for grammar/spelling.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 07, 2011, 02:19:37 am
24th Timber, 95
Insubordination. Assaulting a superior officer. And now banditry.
Sure, I can tell myself that Glitterglen needs those goods far more than they do. Or that they still walked away with a tidy pile of bits for their troubles. But that still doesn't make it sit any better in my stomache.
I'll go along with it this time. Hells, if it had come to blows I'd have laid them all low without a second thought. But next time Miss Charity wants to pull a stunt like this, she can find somepony else.
4th Moonstone, 95
Private Osal showed up at the range today with the most gorgeous piece of hardware I've ever laid eyes on. If he can make a few more of those, I might just consider taking up marksmanship again.
Post by: Dsarker on October 07, 2011, 02:30:54 am
Having watched our great leader authorise the theft of several objects from the cave pony caravan...nope, we've got nothing. Meh. Soon our precious will be ready for the addition of the precious.
PS. Why is it PS? Tell me or suffer!
Love, Friesden.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 07, 2011, 03:12:51 am
Late Timber:
Finally finished building all the beds on order and I've decided to take some time off. I'm sitting on the topmost level of the Air Traffic Tower looking at the view - quite spectacular really - while I collect and record my thoughts. Also, i've just painted my hooves with the latest batch of hoofpolish that I've been helping Ironya develop. I collect and boil down sawdust from a few select trees - the most resinous ones, of course - then Ironya mixes the resin with a few powders and some filings from her work, then we mix in some of the wood spirit the brewer makes for us - that thins it out and makes it suitable for painting with a brush. We are still experimenting with brushes, the ones we have at the moment paint on the polish a bit thick, so we might have to consult with an artist of some description.
There is a lot of shouting downstairs, but I don't want to chip the polish on my hooves before it sets, so, where was I? Yes. I think there is still room for experimentation, Ironya wants to add Bismuthinite to get a type of pearlescent effect, but I think I might get some fish scales from the fishery and grind them up.... I must ask Charity if we have a mortar and pestle.
That shouting downstairs is getting really loud....
Anyway, if we can get the pearlescent effect right, I will suggest to Ironya that we try for some bioluminescent hoofpolish....don't know why, or even who would want it, but, you know, its important to have a wide selection, and an expanding selection of hoofpolish would be a high priority.
If they don't still the ruckus down there, I will have some stern words with them, and if my hoofpolish gets chipped, I will be quite angry.....and yes, I think I hear Khenal's voice, why am I not surprised? Why is he always the lodestone for trouble?
Fish-scales......What do I keep them in until I have enough of them to add to the next batch of hoofpolish? Obviously glass. I'll put together a list of options and then go down to the stores, but first, I must wait a few more minutes for the polish to set.
And its suddenly gone quiet, couldn't have been all that important or the warning bell would have been sounded. In that case, sitting here in the sun for the next hour is much more important than wondering what the boys are getting all rowdy about.
I might even have a nap.
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 07, 2011, 06:55:21 am
Hey book. It's me.
Sorry if I sound sad or something, but I missed out on seeing something supper cool. We were visited by cave ponies today! I was so exited because I never seen a cave pony before and I heard they have all lost of legs and glowing eyes and tentacles and other cool stuff! They live underground and since we live underground too I thought we could be friends and stuff. Maybe they could come and live with us bring there kid's and then me and my brother would have somepony to play with! I ran down to the trade depot to see them and say hello and stuff but Mr. Benoni put a hoof in front of me and said I couldn't go. I saw Mr. Captain Starkey (why is he a captain when we got no boats?) and Mr. Khenal go in and then there was a lot of yelling and cursing before they came out again. I asked Mr. Khenal what happened and he said that they just a a disergement with the cave ponies.
You think it's because they don't like that we live in caves too book?
Sorry if I sound sad or something, but I missed out on seeing something supper cool. We were visited by cave ponies today! I was so exited because I never seen a cave pony before and I heard they have all lost of legs and glowing eyes and tentacles and other cool stuff! They live underground and since we live underground too I thought we could be friends and stuff. Maybe they could come and live with us bring there kid's and then me and my brother would have somepony to play with! I ran down to the trade depot to see them and say hello and stuff but Mr. Benoni put a hoof in front of me and said I couldn't go. I saw Mr. Captain Starkey (why is he a captain when we got no boats?) and Mr. Khenal go in and then there was a lot of yelling and cursing before they came out again. I asked Mr. Khenal what happened and he said that they just a a disergement with the cave ponies.
You think it's because they don't like that we live in caves too book?
-
Hi book!
I had a fun day today! Mr. Khenal and me did some magic stuff. You know, I thought magic would be more exciting, but Khenal just showed me something called "meditating". That's when we both just sit there and close our eyes and not think of anything at all. It's a lot harder then it sounds and I almost fell asleep. After that we played where he put a ball under a cup and shuffled it around with two other cups. He said it helps with concentration, but it's fun too even if I'm not too good at it. We got interrupted when some other pony came running into the dinning room yelling about how he mad a crossbow and that it's the best crossbow ever. Peytrel said that it was super awesome so I guess it was. I though it could use some gems or something but I never really liked wepons and stuff like that much. After that Ms. Ironya let me play with little bubbly! We had super fun playing nighttime-daytime! He is just so CUTE!!! I also wanted to ask if I could have some of that pretty hoof polish she made with Ms. ThunderSplinter but she said I would have to ask her but she's busy working on her tower so I'll ask tomorrow or something.
I have to go book, mommy said that I have to wash up before supper. I wish the showers weren't so cold all the time.
I had a fun day today! Mr. Khenal and me did some magic stuff. You know, I thought magic would be more exciting, but Khenal just showed me something called "meditating". That's when we both just sit there and close our eyes and not think of anything at all. It's a lot harder then it sounds and I almost fell asleep. After that we played where he put a ball under a cup and shuffled it around with two other cups. He said it helps with concentration, but it's fun too even if I'm not too good at it. We got interrupted when some other pony came running into the dinning room yelling about how he mad a crossbow and that it's the best crossbow ever. Peytrel said that it was super awesome so I guess it was. I though it could use some gems or something but I never really liked wepons and stuff like that much. After that Ms. Ironya let me play with little bubbly! We had super fun playing nighttime-daytime! He is just so CUTE!!! I also wanted to ask if I could have some of that pretty hoof polish she made with Ms. ThunderSplinter but she said I would have to ask her but she's busy working on her tower so I'll ask tomorrow or something.
I have to go book, mommy said that I have to wash up before supper. I wish the showers weren't so cold all the time.
----------------------------------------------
Good job robbing the caravan! Now I bet the whole world thinks were a bunch of bandits hiding out in the jungle!
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 07, 2011, 04:14:27 pm
(http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/8302/tunnel2.png)
Post by: Khenal on October 08, 2011, 01:44:15 am
Awesome Art
Theropod Watcher is obviously a legendary engraver, this is awesome!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 08, 2011, 10:43:16 am
I've overheard that a lot of ponies, don't approve of my decision to take the cloth and leather from the caveies. And, I understand their mixed feelings, especially since Glitterglen was originally founded by banished criminals, we don't want to send the image of us being, "Bandits hiding in the Jungle." However, I hope the militia at least will change their tune when they see that the materials are being used mostly to help them in their duties. Our leather workers, are producing a pile of quivers, water-skins, backpacks, cloaks, and bandanas for our brave warriors. And silk cloth is being used to create new silk shirts, trousers, and socks to wear under their armor. Meanwhile the plant cloth is being turned into bags we badly need to store all our dyes, and flours, and sugar. I explained this to Starkey, I think he understood why I had to order the seizure, but asked that I have somepony else do it next time. I told him I hope there won't be a next time.
OOC: Strange thing. I just looked over at Lolum's tomb and the engraved slab of Zuglaroslan was not there. I was sure I had already put it in. But it was still sitting in some stockpile. I was sure I had put it in. /OOC
Charity's Journal 13th Moonstone 95
A worrying thing. The slab depicting the death of Zuglaroslan was removed from Lolum's tomb, and no pony knows why, or who did it. It was just sitting in the furniture stockpile, this morning. I know not what this could mean, but maybe there is some truth to what that foal Venture was saying, could the "fire spider" been a magma crab? Perhaps the ghost of Zuglaroslan? Regardless, I had the slab replaced. I hope nothing supernatural is going going on down there, that tends to mean bad things to come. Damn, we need a priest, or an exorcist, or a god-damned paladin out here.
19th Moonstone 95
More bloody honey badger pegasi. The airborne squadron is chasing them away from our woodcutters as I write. Don't think they've actually hit anything yet. Don't know why they won't use that archery range we've set up for them. Maybe, if they did they could hit something.
OOC: This song started playing, on my media player, just as I sent the militia to give chase. Thought it appropriate, wanted to share. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FozCVz0_Kpc
/OOC
Confound those Horseflies. They, chased the flying badgers for hours, and then they gave up on shooting and decided to bash their heads in with there crossbows. They won. Two, Osal, and another recruit, are bruised and beaten but nothing serious. I called Otik in to explain this tactical disaster, and the best explanation he could afford was that the trees were to thick, and they couldn't get a clear shot, so they had to close to melee.
Charity's Journal 24th Moonstone 95
Raw Adamantine! Praise to Cryptson. Cryptson, while mining for marble, near the magma sea, struck adamantine, the metal of the gods. This is truly auspicious. However, care must be taken, many legends surround this metal, and if even a fraction of them are true, it could mean the end of us all. For all our sakes, not a single stone will be taken from the blue metal until the vein is fully mapped out.
Charity's Journal 28th Moonstone 95
The adamant, has been mapped out, at least of this floor. A little can safety gotten, but a lot can't be mined without, flooding the area with magma. There is an underground lake, directly above it. (Literally 1 z-level up) Perhaps, we could use that to somehow help us get at the adamant, by cooling the surrounding molten stone, will look into it. Additionally, Cryptson, is going to start digging deeper, and try to follow how deep the vein goes.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Raw%20adamantine%21%20Praise%20the%20Cryptson%21.png)
Post by: Khenal on October 08, 2011, 01:46:10 pm
Today is my day off, and I am kinda bored. I'd go train on my own, but the Captain said that day off means DAY OFF! I can't even go to the carpentry shop to work, Thunder Splinter says she wants to be able to work without me underhoof for a while. I wonder if it has to do with the hoof polish her and the other mares have taken to wearing? I'll probably try to find Venture and continue tutoring her in magic. She's been doing very well in the exercises we've been doing, I might have her try to actually channel a spell today. Levitation, I think, would be best. Have her try to lift a little pebble or a feather.
Hmm, but that will only take an hour or two at most. I could just wander around the fort, looking at Nicolta Teslas and Theropod Watchers engravings. Maybe I'll try to talk to Dr. Friesden. Captain Starkey thinks she likes me. I don't know about that, but she certainly seems lonely to me. I'm hardly a center of social activity, but I don't think Dr. Friesden has many friends. Who knows, maybe that will change.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 08, 2011, 02:37:10 pm
Every birth in the fortress is a blessing, and Bebmal, the mother of Venture, and Peytrel, has just given birth to her third child. A pegasus boy, this time. What's up with that family's genetics?
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 4th Opal, 95
Well, we know now that efim is truly dead, his ghost has been spotted wandering around the bone pile. We still have not found his body. Perhaps, we should create a small memorial, but our mason's are so busy right now, and the ghost doesn't seem violent, I think well just let him be, until he becomes a problem.
Charity's Journal 6th Opal, 95
Every birth in the fortress is a blessing, and Charity, overseer and bookkeeper has just given birth to her first child. A earth pony boy.
Charity's Secret Journal 6th Opal, 95
My first child was born today. He's an earthpony like his father, and he looks just like my Cryptson. We're going to name him Adamant, after the blue metal, and we hope he grows up strong and healthy like his namesake.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
I guess I'll send a letter to his grandfather letting him know that he has a grandson now. Though I doubt he'll accept an earthpony as a member of his family, he always was a unicorn supremacist.
____________________________________________________________________
On the 13th of Opal, 95 the following notice is posted in both dining halls.
Memo to all citizen's of Glitterglen.
From the desk of Mrs. Charity Conventtulip, Overseer of Glitterglen, and chief record keeper.
Please take note, that as of today, the showers are now functioning and available to all in the stone hall. Please be informed, that in the unlikely case of flooding, the lever to disable the flow of water is located inside my office, three floors up, first door on the left. Meanwhile, please enjoy the new water system that has been provided for you.
Charity Conventtulip
12th Obsidian
A rainbow pony caravan and a caravan from our own people, along with the outpost liaison, have arrived together. Trade went fairly well, we acquired a good deal of metal from both caravans. Along with more leather, and a caged tamed raccoon, looks like it might be good to eat. But we got plenty of food already, and it's pretty scrawny. Maybe, someone would like it as a pet?
16th Obsidian 95
A pair of brave or very foolish Keishi thieves tried to rob the caravan. The first was spotted by our High Master Armorer, who got a knife in his hoof for the trouble, he's being taken to Friesden for treatment, but the thief didn't take more than three more steps before, a rainbow guard, the Commander, and a stray black bear descended upon the thief.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/A%20theif%20trys%20to%20rob%20the%20caravan.png)
The second was then spotted and tried to run for it. He might have got away but he ran straight in our lovely Unicorn ranger, while she was hunting, and she put a bolt in his leg, allowing the militia to catch up and finish him, while she shot him a few more time, just to be sure.
I'm putting the militia on high alert until we can be sure that no more ambushes are waiting for us. In the meantime, I'm going to go drag Nicolta away from engraving his bed room and make him get his ass to setting up those traps he promised me.
Thrice damn it. Now he's just said he's going on break, and ran off to the dining hall, lazy ass.
_____________________________________________________________________________
The following is posted in both dining rooms.
Memo to all citizen's of Glitterglen.
From the desk of Mrs. Charity Conventtulip, Overseer of Glitterglen, and chief record keeper.
In response to the increased snatcher activity, a pair of traps have been placed outside the entrances to the fortress. So, if you need to leave the safety of the a walls, for any reason, and don't desire a hoof with a wooden spike through it, you may ask Nicolta Tesla about proper procedures for bypassing his traps.
Additional note to all parents. Children are not allowed outside the walls, without adult supervision. The jungle is a dangerous place, and not just because of snatchers.
Charity Conventtulip
Charity's Journal 3rd Granite 96
*the page is covered with detailed sketches of a weapon rack*
I got a great idea. I...I... Be right back book, don't go any where.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Charity%20mood.png)
*And so Charity, skipping as she and little Adamant went, hurried up to the mason's shop where Pillomino had been trying to work on a lovely weapon rack for the barracks, difficult with the ghost of efim constantly looking over her shoulder, when Charity, laughing with glee, threw her from the room.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Charity%20claimed.png)
She then proceeded to gather material, she started with Pillomino's partially constructed rack, then she grabbed a lump of cobaltite, some rough indigo tourmalines, the same color of her husband's coat, a bar of copper metal, snatched from the hoofs of Cindersparks before she could smelt it with the newly acquired tin, a roll of Llama wool cloth, her favorite, and a piece of Llama leather. And then she began to work furiously.
However as she worked, the ghost looked on and watched, and during the construction the ghost said to her. You aren't allowed to use that stone. Charity panicked, confused, she sat for days unable to work, before she suddenly renewed construction with a glint in her eye, and, while nopony saw how she did it, when she was done, she had created, Foldbored the Fair Dimples, an iron weapon rack. Yes, an iron rack, despite the complete lack of iron in the room for her to work with. No pony saw iron go in, but undoubtedly iron came out, truly, this is some sort of magic.*[/i]
Some pony needs to explain to me what just happened. When she started her mood and claimed the shop, I forbid all stone except cobaltite, from the stocks menu, because I didn't want the artifact to be a boring grey or brown color, but then when she started construction I went to unforbid all stone and I accidentally forbid cobaltite, I undid it, but when I resumed the game, the cobalt no longer had TSK next to it and I assumed she would stop working and get a new stone, note no stones were forbidden during this time. But instead she kept working on her masonry mood without any stone, and then produced an iron artifact. There was no iron in the shop, I had looked at what she grabbed as she got it and looked through the shop's inventory as she was working, there was no iron present or even iron ore (of which I have none) for her to have used. How did this happen? Is this a known bug? Can we exploit this in the future? Has anyone done !science! on this yet?
Charity's Journal 10th Granite, 96
I've just created the finest weapon rack the world has ever seen. It's truly beautiful. I can't remember what magic I used to create Iron from nothing, though if I could just somehow learn that... Regardless, I do now have more knowledge of stone working in my head than I've ever even known there was to know. I guess, I should try to use it to help out Pillomino with her work.
Edit: Forgot to post the pictures
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: thetyler101 on October 08, 2011, 03:43:14 pm
Book, I had one of my bad dreams again.
It was last night right after the party we had for Mr. Cryptson on finding thatadiiniani amun aluminum blue metal stuff way down in the lower mines. I was horrible. Way worse than when that scarey human king came to visit and that was the worse ever! It was all fire and burning and hurt. So much pain. So much hate. So much hate. I saw a burning fortress, the stones themselves ablaze in the fire of madness. All burn... I saw blood running in rivers to the deaths of the earth, falling into themselves forever. I saw death unending, the two great ones fighting with no hope for salvation, fighting to bring pain to others. HolisticDetective HolisticDetective HolisticDetective HolisticDetective I saw madness consume creatures whole, casting them into a darkness where Nightmares fear to treed. I saw the whole world burning in a fire that gives no light. I saw love ones bring death and suffering to each other with smiles and hope for death. I saw twisted creatures, trapped, pained, and and angered. So desperate to be free. So tortured by there own unending existence. So much hate. So Much Hate.
Sorry book that... happens sometimes.
All the time I saw that blue mettal. It was there protecting me. Shielding me. We souldn't touch it. It's important. It was placed there by gods older than the two sisters. A god of blood holds the way for it is blood it holds back. It was placed for a reason. It must...
Sorry, happened again. I don't remember even having red ink though.
Then I saw the one pegasus from before, the one with the grey wings. He grabbed me and pulled me out. He said it would be all right. When I woke up, it was my big brother that was holding me. I guess he heard me screaming and stuff. He's always the first one here when I have my bad dreams. We hugged for a long time, and then mommy and daddy came in and we all hugged some more until I stopped crying and went to sleep again. I had a better dream after that. I was in a town called ponyville and it was bright and sunny and there were all sorts of friendly ponies there. A pink earth pony started this big party and there was games and dancing and all sorts of yummy food like cake and cup cakes and muffins and all sorts of stuff! It was so supper fun!
Do you think that's what heaven is like book? I hope so.
-It was last night right after the party we had for Mr. Cryptson on finding that
Sorry book that... happens sometimes.
All the time I saw that blue mettal. It was there protecting me. Shielding me. We souldn't touch it. It's important. It was placed there by gods older than the two sisters. A god of blood holds the way for it is blood it holds back. It was placed for a reason. It must...
Sorry, happened again. I don't remember even having red ink though.
Then I saw the one pegasus from before, the one with the grey wings. He grabbed me and pulled me out. He said it would be all right. When I woke up, it was my big brother that was holding me. I guess he heard me screaming and stuff. He's always the first one here when I have my bad dreams. We hugged for a long time, and then mommy and daddy came in and we all hugged some more until I stopped crying and went to sleep again. I had a better dream after that. I was in a town called ponyville and it was bright and sunny and there were all sorts of friendly ponies there. A pink earth pony started this big party and there was games and dancing and all sorts of yummy food like cake and cup cakes and muffins and all sorts of stuff! It was so supper fun!
Do you think that's what heaven is like book? I hope so.
I HAVE A LITTLE BROTHER!!
I'm so exited i cant right so gud! Sorry book, just so exited!
Mommy was really big for a long time now. She said that I would have a brother or sister soon. I was kinda hoping for a little sister, but this is OK too. It odd, but I think I knew it was going to be my brother for a few da---
Have to go book, daddy says I can go see my little brother now! O, almost forgot, his name is DaringSky. (wish my name was that cool)
-
I saw that one pegasus with grey wings talking to Mr. Efim today down in some of the lower levels while me and Peytrel were playing Hide and Hunt. They were really hard to see, like they were smudged or something. Mr. Efim looked upset about some thing I couldn't hear, but that other pegasus was calming him down. I didn't really pay attention.
Also, Ms. Charity had a little foal today! He's a little cutie! He's kinda clumsy and chubby too, It's so funny! Sky and him really like each other too! I don't like his name though. Adamant is a bad name. Adamantine is a bad metal. We must not...
Sorry, that's been happening a lot recently. Anyways I just call that little cutie Andy!
Also, Ms. Charity had a little foal today! He's a little cutie! He's kinda clumsy and chubby too, It's so funny! Sky and him really like each other too! I don't like his name though. Adamant is a bad name. Adamantine is a bad metal. We must not...
Sorry, that's been happening a lot recently. Anyways I just call that little cutie Andy!
-
Ms. Charity finished her weapon thing today.
She was really exited and told everypony that there would be a party to celibate! I hope daddy lets me drink too much wine again, it was fun even if I woke up with a bad headache the next morning. Ms. Charity has been working on her thing for a long time now, I hope she gives credit to Mr. Efim and Mr. GeyWings (don't know his real name) for helping. I wanted to ask where they found those iron bars they brought to her but there really hard to find sometimes.
Ive been learning magic from Mr. Khenal is teaching me real magic and not just focus games and stuff! We worked on lifting little things of the table like sticks and pebbles and feather and stuff. I kinda messed up on one of the feathers and crushed it into a little ball. I was really embarrassed and sad but Mr Khenal said that it was Ok and that it was because I was trying too hard. We don't do a lot of magic, and I think it's because he's a little afraid of my last bad dream. I hope thats not true, I don't want to scare anypony like I did back in old home and have to stay home all day.
Your not scared of me too are you book?
NO
Yay! I knew you wouldn't be!
She was really exited and told everypony that there would be a party to celibate! I hope daddy lets me drink too much wine again, it was fun even if I woke up with a bad headache the next morning. Ms. Charity has been working on her thing for a long time now, I hope she gives credit to Mr. Efim and Mr. GeyWings (don't know his real name) for helping. I wanted to ask where they found those iron bars they brought to her but there really hard to find sometimes.
Ive been learning magic from Mr. Khenal is teaching me real magic and not just focus games and stuff! We worked on lifting little things of the table like sticks and pebbles and feather and stuff. I kinda messed up on one of the feathers and crushed it into a little ball. I was really embarrassed and sad but Mr Khenal said that it was Ok and that it was because I was trying too hard. We don't do a lot of magic, and I think it's because he's a little afraid of my last bad dream. I hope thats not true, I don't want to scare anypony like I did back in old home and have to stay home all day.
Your not scared of me too are you book?
NO
Yay! I knew you wouldn't be!
----------------------------------------------------------------
Many updates are many! Having a little trouble keeping up. Should hav another adventure up soon to. Is your body ready?
Post by: Dsarker on October 08, 2011, 05:41:41 pm
Our precious is entering our parlour, said the spiders to the fly. Now to attach the precious to our precious!
Post by: pantherrpg on October 08, 2011, 07:25:57 pm
21st Moonstone, 95
Several ponies have been complimenting me about my engravings. It appears that they have mistaken the various diagrams of death machines I have drawn on the walls for artwork. Perhaps I could use this to earn some more bits for my project.
16th Obsidian, 95
Charity told me to build some traps to defend us against the Diomedian ponies. I went to the dining room to start planning the giant magnifying glass I was going to use immolate intruders. It was there that I met Friesden, who told me to use spike traps instead as they leave the limbs unscathed. Normally, I would have ignored such a suggestion, but I am interested in possibly working on a joint project with her in the future. She's the only other pony here who cares about the advancement of !!Science!! after all.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 08, 2011, 08:39:01 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The sound of an argument fills the air above the normal sound of hard working ponies. The sound comes from the mid-levels around the mason's shop.
"Why would you make this Pillomino!?" Shouted Charity.
"It shows the truth! Don't pretend it doesn't! Lolum was a weakling, killed by a magma crab of all things! And a fool, wrestling one with his bare hoofs without even the littlest amount of armor." Defended Pillomino.
"Lolum, was a god-damned hero. He scarified himself for those trapped ponies. And then you would dishonor his memory with this, this thing." replied Charity, anger in her voice.
"YOu are being idealistic! You just want to build him up into some great champion to further your own agenda! You are the one dishonoring his death by making him out to be something he is not." Yelled Pillomino.
The two ponies separated. "To think I once called her my friend." mumbled Charity before shouting at the nearest other pony. "Throw that abomination in the magma sea, get Cryptson to dig a hole and just toss it in!"
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Mocking.png)
Pillomino was upset about the loss of one of her masterpieces, but she had many others to keep her placated, so, after a good stiff drink, and a wonderful meal, she had practically forgotten about the entire ordeal.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Punishment.png)
Charity's Journal 27th Granite 96
Well at least we know Nicolta's traps work. A snatcher tried to get in the south entrance, and after getting stabbed several times, by the first trap, proceeded to try and escape out the north entrance and triggered the second trap, by the time the first militia pony was on the scene, our earth pony lasher Langgud, all he had to do was put the bastard out of his misery with a silver whip strike to the head, killed him instantly.
25th Slate 96
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/An%20AMBUSH%21%20Curse%20them%21.png)
It was always only a matter of time. The pegasi squad is being sent to the walls, the north entrance will be closed, the south will be left open so that they can come right into the waiting ground squad. The one to first spot them was Erib the unicorn ranger, instead of running for the safety of the walls, she lead them away, into the jungle, we were confused as to why when out of the jungle, in the opposite direction came a huge group of migrants. It seems she knew they were coming and sacrificed herself to distract the diomedians while the innocent ponies made a run for the walls.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Ranger.png)
The following ponies managed to get inside to safety. One a male pegasus macepony/fisherman, who was immediately pressed into service. Two a female earthpony armorer. Three, a little unicorn boy, about Venture's age. Four, a female earthpony glassmaker/carpenter. Five, female unicorn siege engineer. Six the mother of that unicorn boy, an earthpony stonecrafter. A female bone doctor and artist.
After those got in, a spearpony recruit by the name of Ramol ran out to fight the enemy alone, save for his faithful pet grizzly bear. (ran to get one of the dead unicorn's socks no doubt) He charged a darkbolt, with a crossbow, knocked a flying silver bolt away with his spear, as he unleashed his battle cry, as the dark bolt evades his weapon, another bolt, this one copper strikes him in the upper body, but seems to get stuck in his cloak, (told Starkey we needed that cloth) he then stabs the dark bolt three times the final one strikes his chanform and cuts through the iron and bone, and pierces his brain, he drops. He turns and attacks a keishi pony archer, blocks another bolt with his spear. He bucks the archer in the chest and then stabbed it repeatedly. At this point seeing as how he was actually holding his own, Starkey called for a charge, the airborne squad flew, under Otik orders toward the ridge overlooking the battle, while the ground squad charged to help their comrade in arms. As his friends rushed in to help him, Ramol, changed target and stabbed, and bite, and kicked, the other Keishi, as the other Diomodians fled for their lives, chased by his loyal bear, who limped on after them his leg bleeding from a wound, clearly in extreme pain. Khenal, chases down the wounded Diomedian, dodges, a copper bolt from his target, and finishes the pitiful creature. And the others scattered to the wind.
This bought precious time allowing the rest of the migrants to get inside. Including a spear unicorn fresh from basic training. A pegasan thresher, who apparently forgot he could fly and walked around the walls, instead of flying over. An earthpony butcher, a mace pony/cook, a pegasan siege engineer. Earthpony thresher, pegasan lye maker, Unicorn weapon-smith apprentice, another female unicorn ranger, unicorn butcher, unicorn potter, Legendary female Unicorn Glassmaker, earthpony fisher.
Charity's Journal End of Slate 96
Ramol's actions during the ambush, may have been fool hardy, but no pony can doubt his results, he routed the whole group on his own. The others merely helped him mop up the already broken enemy, for his actions he deserves some sort of reward. Perhaps he can be given better accommodations, but first, Thundersplinter needs to make a couple dozen more beds.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 08, 2011, 09:08:03 pm
Late Slate;
Watching the battle from the topmost part of the tower and urging the migrants to safety while watching the brave/foolhardy Ramol charge the foul Diomedians. Never before have I witnessed such selflessness - it is inspiring to say the least and deserving of reward, the very next masterwork bed I make should be his.
Of course, that does mean, with all these new migrants, more beds need to be made, fortunately I am not alone in the carpentry workshops now, another pony works quietly in the second workshop. I haven't had much to do with him as he is a dedicated father and spends most of his free time with his family, and making more ponies as a consequence, ;).
Nicolta has demonstrated that the trap defenses are worth the effort to install them, perhaps they need to be expanded though, maybe Charity will permit the carving of half a dozen enormous wooden corkscrews to bolster the initial defenses. I wonder if Nicolta needs assistance in the construction of traps? The business of making mechanisms does intrigue me and the air traffic tower might need some defences from the rabid honey badger pegasi, something else that needs to be brought to Charity's attention, or should I just go ahead and do it myself? Yes, perhaps that's a better idea, shouldn't bother her with such trivial matters, what with her new foal, husband and ever-growing responsibilities.
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 08, 2011, 09:44:44 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 08, 2011, 10:24:51 pm
((Question for King StrongBeard: have you given any consideration to this story as it relates to MLP canon? Are we in Equestria, or somewhere else? Is this the distant future? The past? Are we in a different universe entirely? I had some ideas for a backstory, but I wanted to get your permission first.))
I had been assuming a different universe, that is why I have tried not to refer to Celestia, Luna, or anything specifically related to the show's world. Although I could change my mind in that respect, if you have some interesting ideas. However, some have, mostly jokingly, said, in the Pony Mod thread, that this mod could be thought of as Equestria, during Discords reign before the sister's sealed him in stone. So either a different universe, as I've been working under the assumption of, or the distant past, during the reign of Discord. Although, distant future could work as well I guess, if you have a good idea for that, but not the way I would choose to go.
Edit: Alternatively, if you don't like the above suggestions, it could be set in the universe of My Little Pony: The (Abridged) Mentally Advanced Series, which I have enjoyed, and it seems like it could work, perhaps in another country separate from Equestria. Episode 1 is here,if you haven't seen it, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUn86Yy7-IA&feature=relmfu
Edited Edit: Dsarker, Cryptson has been digging out a vein of Cobaltite, and after following it for awhile, it has looped around and reached the place where your murder was carried out, and where Efim's body is still sealed up. If it is okay with you I'd like to have him accidentally breach the room, find the body, and thus allow an investigation to begin. Don't worry about Friesden right away at least, no one will link the crime to him right away. Is that okay with you?
Post by: Dsarker on October 09, 2011, 02:12:31 am
Post by: Khenal on October 09, 2011, 03:10:20 am
Last week, Cryptson discovered Adamantine! There are all kinds of legends about the metal, and the prospect of adamantine armor really excited me. I'm not so sure, now. Little Venture told me about a bad dream she had, and apparently her bad dreams aren't uncommon. Her dealings with Lolum make me want to take her dreams seriously. I suspect she is predisposed to magics of divination and awareness. I'll definitely need to put even more emphasis on control and concentration in our lessens. Madness is a real danger to ponies with abilities like hers.
Oh, I almost forgot: Dr. Friesden and I seem well on our way to becoming friends. Dropping in on her seems to have been a good idea. She was a little jumpy and odd at first, and she still is eccentric, but she did seem happy to have somepony to talk to. Almost all of her medical talk goes over my head, but her passion for it is plain to see.
Chapter 12
Nicolta Tesla recently finished setting up some traps at the entrances to Glitter Glen, and they've even stopped a few Diomedians. Unfortunately, they decided to attack in force today. Ebsas, one of our rangers, sent up the shout and lead them away from the fort. She saw the wave of migrants at the same time she spotted the ambush, and sacrificed herself to ensure their safety. A hooffull of migrants were able to dash inside while the Diomedians were distracted, but many more were still out in the jungle. One of the new spear ponies, Ramol, broke ranks and charged the Diomedians before Captain Starkey could order the charge.
My heart sank, I was certain we would witness his death in short order. However, he fell on those Diomedians like a pony possessed. The Captain ordered the charge and the Diomedians broke and fled. I finished one that Ramol had wounded, though several got away. Ramol is the hero of the day, though I think Captain Starkey is annoyed that he broke ranks and charged on his own. I'm just glad that so few ponies were hurt. Ramol broke the will of the Diomedians, but we must not forget Ebsas' sacrifice to ensure the safety of others.
******
Ah, HeadShoots/SyrupLeaf references.
Post by: Haspen on October 09, 2011, 03:57:52 am
Nicknames of parents show up in 'parents' part of the description, they always did :P
And I don't see 'Ironya' anywhere written there :P
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 09, 2011, 10:41:27 am
Are you sure it's Ironya's kid?
Nicknames of parents show up in 'parents' part of the description, they always did :P
And I don't see 'Ironya' anywhere written there :P
Indeed I am sure. And I have proof.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Indeed.png)
Edit: Sometimes, I've noticed nicknames don't show up where they should. For example the nickname's displayed properly under Charity's son's page, but they don't on Ironya's second baby's page, despite showing up correctly on his relationship chart.
Also, nicknames don't show up in some places I would want them too, such as in "This is an engraving/statue/decoration/figurine/etc. of something, by (somepony)" where "somepony" is the original name of the creature, not the nickname. It is annoying. Or when it is an engraving or statue of somepony, and doesn't call them by there nickname.
Also, in my previous fort, I noticed that tantrums for some reason, remove the nickname from the pony. I was building a fortress in the sky, and my dinning room wasn't yet fully sealed, and a parasprite invasion flew in and ate all my prepared meals, and many barrels of
Post by: Impending Doom on October 09, 2011, 03:26:42 pm
- - - - - -
26th Slate, '96
Oh-ho-ho, so the Diomedians grew a pair, did they?
They came with a medium-sized raiding party, not an army - for which I am secretly grateful. Because if there had been many more of the bastards, Private Ramol's, ah, enthusiasm probably would've cost him his life. The moment the gate swung open to let some newcomers seek refuge, he was out the door and charging towards the Diomedian force at full gallop. It was all I could do to stop myself from ordering the charge early to save his sorry flank, but much to my surprise - and I'll admit, more than a little pride - the lad held his own just fine without us. By the time the rest of us got there, he had practically routed the raiders on his own!
I'll let Doc Friesden give Ramol the once-over just to be sure, then he gets first pick of new equipment when he gets back.
...which he will have the honor of wearing while he makes fifteen laps around the fortress walls. This fortress needs heroes son, not martyrs!
- - - - - -
30th Slate, '96
Nothing happening today. nothing much at all has happened since theattack a few days ago.
Last week, Head Miner Cryptson ran into an Adamantine pillar. I've had a little experience with the stuff: back in my city guard days, I got a small spool of woven adamantine thread from a curio shop, cost me most of a week's wages. I used the stuff to re-string my crossbow, and it was a wonder. I could crank her back as far as she would go, and the stuff wouldn't snap. Goddess, I had fun with that. Shame they confiscated it when - well, none of that matters anymore. All the same, It'll be nice to see what our smiths can do with the miracle metal.
Of course, there have been more than a few murmurs of concerns - apparently, my father wasn't the only one who liked to frighten little foals with old ponytales. Most worrisome is Khenal's diagnosis of the little filly Venture. Apparently she has been plagued by vivid nightmares as of late, but he believes them to be something much deeper than that. After the incident with Lolum's spirit, I'm inclined to agree with him.
Of course, now he intends to take her under his wing as his magical student or somesuch. As if he needed more work. I love the lad to death, I really do, and I trust his judgement completely, especially when it comes to the supernatural. But damn, does that boy need a marefriend. I see he took my advice about the good doctor, and they seem to be getting along well.
Post by: Dsarker on October 09, 2011, 03:39:33 pm
Well, diary, what's happened now is quite strange. I seem to be getting along quite well with two ponies now. Nicolta Tesla and Khenal. Strange. I've got some strange memories. I think I need to rest. Night!
Friesden
WHAT THE HELL IS HAPPENING TO US?! We have the precious and our precious, why do we not fix them! We have the technology! We must do it now!
PS. Silly Friesden, trying to get back! You no can have body!
Love, Friesden!
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 09, 2011, 03:49:34 pm
P.s. Sorry about the formality of the sentence structure, I slipped into major writing mode there.
Post by: Dsarker on October 09, 2011, 04:11:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 09, 2011, 06:51:22 pm
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 09, 2011, 07:55:52 pm
Entry 1
Hello Journal. I recently made a massive decision; I moved. While I loathe change, it was such a great opportunity for some quiet and peaceful engraving.
This place is called Glitterglen, and its smack dab in the middle of a hot, and miserably humid, rainforest. Luckily, my job keeps me deep in the cool and somber rock, allowing for deep thought. The more I thought, the better my art has become.
Its not all great though, we have been attacked by diomedians, and some ponies have died. There has also been talk of ghosts and spirits, I do hope the pony in charge doesn't go crazy with so called "Exorcists" like they did back home; those con artists brought such misery to those who were proclaimed "possessed".
I'm getting too worked up now, I'll go engrave some waves.
Theropod Watcher
Post by: Impending Doom on October 11, 2011, 10:37:51 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 11, 2011, 11:21:51 pm
Hey, you haven't forgotten about us have you?
You talking to me Impending Doom? No I haven't forgotten, just been kind of busy, don't have alot of free time during the week you see, and I picked up Dark Souls on Sunday, so yeah, but, I'm going to play for a little while know. Expect a game update soon.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 12, 2011, 01:29:29 am
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Therleth.png)
and it's an adorable little unicorn filly.
I also, noticed little Bubel, Ironya's first, isn't quite as little anymore, I saw him and Venture, Shigos (the unicorn pony foal from the last wave) and Peytral, playing in the water in the dinning room. Bubel's pretty quick for his size, but seemed to tire quickly and go back to mommy, before the other kids where done playing, but, it's good that Venture has a few ponies to play with that are closer to his own age. I latter spotted Peytral playing with Starkey's axe that he found lying in the barracks, Starkey must have been really tired to have left that lying around, he's never apart from it. I scolded him for playing with the militia's weapons and sent him home, but he didn't really seem to listen to me. Oh well.
15th Felsite 96
One of our fisherponies, spotted a giant tiger while out bringing some wood to Thunder. Fortunately, no pony was hurt, I hate to harm such a majestic creature, perhaps Nicolta Tesla has some ideas about ways to catch it unharmed? I'll ask him over a nice pint of pegasan ale.
26th Hematite, 96
A pony by the name of Tunur Buzatadril, has been made Mayor of Glitterglen. He's one of our best armorers and with our lack of materials apparently had the time to run for office, while I was busy actually running this place. Damnit, I can't believe they voted for that mud pony over me. This is unacceptable, I'm going to have to do something about this.
3rd Malachite, 96
The Giant Tiger from before hasn't been seen since, but a few cage traps have been set up. Maybe we'll get lucky and it'll trigger one if it returns, if not our militia can easily take care of it if it becomes dangerous.
5th Malachite, 96
Another group of migrants has arrived, about nine of them this time, lets see. that brings Glitterglen up to a population of 89, counting all the babies and children. Considering when we started out back in the spring of 94, we were just 7 outcasts we've really grown, I wonder if the government will try to claim us as a proper territory soon. But if they do, they'll probably start demanding we pay taxes to the princess.
Anyway 9 new ponies, one earth pony hunter. two eathpony metal crafter, an earthpony soldier, a unicorn wound dresser, A male Royal Pony architect/stonemason. A professional pegasan cook, and father of two kids, the mother didn't come with them, don't know the story there, probably don't want to ask. The kids are a pegasan boy nearly full grown, and his sister two years his younger who is an earth pony. A mechaninc, who is also, a rather talented axe pony.
6th Malachite, 96
Ironya, was surrounded by a strange purple glowing light today, as she was carrying some of her handy work upstairs to show the troops, she immediately dropped what she was carried, ran downstairs, knock the armor smith out of the forge room, grabbed a single bar of Adamantine and began to work.
9th Malachite, 96
Ironya has finished her work, the light has vanished, and she doesn't recall any of the experience. All she has to show for it, is a large dagger, which she says is called, Goodsnarled the Principle of Slowing. It is a very fine blade, and I'm sure our soldiers will all be fighting over who get's to carry it.
11th Malachite, 96
An unfortunate, discovery has been made today, Cryptson, following a vein of cobalt, found a hollow area, digging into it he found a room, connected to the fort through a crudely dug tunnel, hidden from sight behind a locked, unassuming door. In the room he saw, a clear window, likely the one that went missing months before, on the other side was a body, seemed to be that of a male pegasus, Efim, most likely, complete save for it's wings, which are missing. The body, was impaled upon a copper spear, jutting out from the ground, the victim seemed to have been stabbed many times before falling. The spearing mechanism was connected to the lever in the room that Cryptson hit.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/MURDER%21%21.png)
This was obviously some sort of murder, but what pony would/could do such a thing. Cryptson came to me first and together we told the mayor, what he found. The three of us agreed to keep it quite, at least until we know a little more about it. I think we need somepony in charge of protecting us from ourselves, somepony to track down and deal with criminals. I've told the mayor, and he asked me to appoint a captain of the guard, and possibly a few ponies under him, and I think I know just the pony for the job.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
*Charity calls Khenal into her office, upon his arrival she explains to him the situation with the murder.*
"Khenal, you are one of the most loyal, trustworthy, dedicated ponies that I know, even Commander Starkey says almost nothing but good things about you. However, you are not fit to be a warrior, you lack the killer instinct for that, you Khenal are a protector, and I would trust you to protect any or all of the lives in Glitterglen, including myself. So Khenal, what do you say to the title, and rank, of Captain of the Guard, of the Great Fortress Glitterglen?"
Post by: thetyler101 on October 12, 2011, 02:33:49 pm
Hi book. I saw Mr greywings today.
It was when we got that new ponies today. I heard that they were trapped behind some of those scarry looking ponies. I found him in the top dinning hall just leaning on the wall. I asked him if he was going to help those poor ponies, but he just shook his head and said 'nope, don't need too'. I was confused but then Private Ramol ran past to the gate super fast! He totally saved the day book! I didn't see it, but I hear it was supper awesome and stuff. Then Mr greywings said that he had to leave, and that he had stayed around for too long already. I said that I would miss him a lot, but he said that it was alright. He walked into some door I never saw before with Mr. Efim a really scared and confused looking unicorn and a cupple of other ponies I don't recognize and there was a bright light and...
They were gone.
I'm not as sad as I thought I would be. Actually, I'm sorta happy.
-
Sorry I haven't written in you for a long time book, so much stuff has been happing these days!
There's lots of new fillies and colts around now a days and it's super fun! We play all sorts of games and have adventures and all sorts of fun things. I never had this meany friends back at the town I use to live in! There are so many ponies hear! My family has to all share beads, but that's OK.
Mr. Tunur Was elected mayor too! I don't know what that means but there was a party and stuff so I guess it's a good thing. Ms. Charity wasn't happy though, but Andys' mom is always a sour puss.
Mr. Khenal has been teaching me magic, but weave been doing more boring control stuff again. He said we would try some other spells in this book he got from the last group of traders! That sounds supper cool!
-
Mr. Khenal has me doing a spell today!
It's called the 'floating illusion spell' or something. You ust think of something and a shimmering image appears in the air. A lot of story tellers use it. Were starting small Khenal said, I just have to do a blue dagger. It's a hard spell, But I'm trying as hard as I can!
I know I can do it!
-
Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger
* The rest of the page is made up of blue color drawings of a long dagger *
I don't think this is working book. I won't give up though! Goodness this is going really slowly!
It was when we got that new ponies today. I heard that they were trapped behind some of those scarry looking ponies. I found him in the top dinning hall just leaning on the wall. I asked him if he was going to help those poor ponies, but he just shook his head and said 'nope, don't need too'. I was confused but then Private Ramol ran past to the gate super fast! He totally saved the day book! I didn't see it, but I hear it was supper awesome and stuff. Then Mr greywings said that he had to leave, and that he had stayed around for too long already. I said that I would miss him a lot, but he said that it was alright. He walked into some door I never saw before with Mr. Efim a really scared and confused looking unicorn and a cupple of other ponies I don't recognize and there was a bright light and...
They were gone.
I'm not as sad as I thought I would be. Actually, I'm sorta happy.
-
Sorry I haven't written in you for a long time book, so much stuff has been happing these days!
There's lots of new fillies and colts around now a days and it's super fun! We play all sorts of games and have adventures and all sorts of fun things. I never had this meany friends back at the town I use to live in! There are so many ponies hear! My family has to all share beads, but that's OK.
Mr. Tunur Was elected mayor too! I don't know what that means but there was a party and stuff so I guess it's a good thing. Ms. Charity wasn't happy though, but Andys' mom is always a sour puss.
Mr. Khenal has been teaching me magic, but weave been doing more boring control stuff again. He said we would try some other spells in this book he got from the last group of traders! That sounds supper cool!
-
Mr. Khenal has me doing a spell today!
It's called the 'floating illusion spell' or something. You ust think of something and a shimmering image appears in the air. A lot of story tellers use it. Were starting small Khenal said, I just have to do a blue dagger. It's a hard spell, But I'm trying as hard as I can!
I know I can do it!
-
Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger Blue Dagger
* The rest of the page is made up of blue color drawings of a long dagger *
I don't think this is working book. I won't give up though! Goodness this is going really slowly!
Post by: Khenal on October 12, 2011, 03:29:33 pm
I bought another book today. No, not another Book, just a magic book. I'm not great with magic, and Venture is fast approaching the limits of my knowledge of the arcane arts. I asked the caravan to bring more books on magic the next time they came, so hopefully this one will last till then. Maybe the other caravans will have some books as well?
Chapter 14
One of the armorers apparently ran for mayor and won. Personally, I don't pay much attention to politics. I don't see why we need a mayor while we have Charity as our overseer. What does a mayor actually do? Eh, probably does paperwork so Mrs. Charity can do important things. I heard her grumbling something about steel production and right hooves and left hooves. I really should do something to let her know we all appreciate her. I wonder if Nicolta Tesla or Theropod Watcher accept commissions for engravings?
Chapter 15
Ironya just finished what is possibly the best dagger in all existence. It's made from Adamantine and is, well, perfect. I've also seen it before.
Earlier this week, Venture and I were practicing illusion spells and she was working on making a blue dagger. I'm not sure if it's her talents in precognition or if she somehow influenced Ironya accidentally. If it's just her talent, then I think the work in concentration and control is paying off. She hasn't told me of any nightmares lately at least, which I take as a good sign. However, if she influenced Ironya, this could be very bad. I need to test this. I remember we got a caged raccoon a while ago, I wonder if it's been claimed yet? I'll try showing it to her and ask her to try to get it to dance. I really hope she fails to get it dancing; power like that is very dangerous. Not just to others, but herself as well.
Chapter 16
Mrs. Charity called me into her office today. I didn't know why. I mean, I like to think she's a friend, but being called to her office means official Glitter Glen business. Maybe I did something wrong and didn't realize it? After the door was closed, she told me about a murder. I was horrified! How could anypony murder somepony? She also told me she didn't think I was cut out to be on the front lines of battle, either. I wanted to argue that point, but she wasn't finished. She said I was a protector, and there are official positions for protectors: Guards. And she wanted me to be the Captain of the Guard.
I just stared at her, dumbstruck, for a while. Then I started thinking of the various ponies in Glitter Glen: Cryptson and Charity, Thunder Splinter, Dr. Friesden, Venture, Peytrel. From the founders to the ponies that immigrated just last week, all of them working hard to make Glitter Glen all it can be. Commander Starkey and the rest of the military, working to protect us from foreign threats. But what about domestic threats? What about threats that come from below? Commander Starkey is the first line, but what if something get through? He can't be everywhere at once.
I told her I don't think much of the title and rank, but I'd take the position anyway. She's right about me, I'm no warrior. But I will do my best to ensure the safety of these ponies and capture the murderer. I just hope there isn't too much paperwork involved.
Post by: Dsarker on October 12, 2011, 04:04:19 pm
Something strange is happening to me. Some times I black out. And then bad things happen. I don't remember why or how. I've got to do something.
I don't know why, but the other pegasi scare me. Khenal scares me more. I feel most comfortable with the earth ponies. Goddesses help me. It's coming again. I can feel it. Just finish this and lock my door again.
Friesden.
Friesden's diary.
RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH I WILL BE FREE I WILL HAVE MY REVENGE I WILL HAVE MY PRECIOUS AND MY PRECIOUS WILL HAVE THE PRECIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!
Post by: thetyler101 on October 12, 2011, 04:57:01 pm
---------------------------------------------------------------
* two little foals, siting in the dining hall, looking quite board*
" Hey venture, what do you want to do?"
"I don't know Shigos, What do you want to do?"
"I don't know, what do you want to-"
"Hey! I Know what to do!"
"Yay!"
-
Hey book, I just got a supper idea today.
I remember how Mr. Khenal told me that he had a pair of wood wings, and Shigos always wondered how having wings is like. It's the perfect plan!
Mr. Khenal said he left them with Ms. Friesden, so we went to her office to ask her. She looked really nervous when we asked her, but she said we could borrow them. They were so cool! They didn't even look wooden or anything! And they had real feathers on them all colored red and stuff. They smelled a little odd but still, so cool! A little string and they sit right on Shigos back! Then Ms. Friesden said she would teach us how to fly! She led us up to the surface and told us to go over to a hill out away from the fortress while she got some thing she forgot. I hope she come's back soon, I can't wait! You know sometimes when I look at her, I think I can see-
I remember how Mr. Khenal told me that he had a pair of wood wings, and Shigos always wondered how having wings is like. It's the perfect plan!
Mr. Khenal said he left them with Ms. Friesden, so we went to her office to ask her. She looked really nervous when we asked her, but she said we could borrow them. They were so cool! They didn't even look wooden or anything! And they had real feathers on them all colored red and stuff. They smelled a little odd but still, so cool! A little string and they sit right on Shigos back! Then Ms. Friesden said she would teach us how to fly! She led us up to the surface and told us to go over to a hill out away from the fortress while she got some thing she forgot. I hope she come's back soon, I can't wait! You know sometimes when I look at her, I think I can see-
-
"Ello? Whats this?"
The two fillys look back in shock at the appearance of at the new pony. Venture quikly stuffs her book into he saddlebag. Befor them stood a
"Dva malenky pegiez out and about I viddy. No, you got horns on your gullivers don't you?"
"Ummm..." The two fillies shifted under the gaze of the frightening pony before them.
"Well, Beg your pardoon magntesy." The sikly colored pony preformed a mock bow to the frightend fillies.
Ventured finally spoke up "Were not suppose to talk to strangers an-"
"Me eemyas SkrillCoal. Guss I'm not a stranger-danger now am I?"
"well, ya I guess but-"
"Say!" The pony walked closer to the two. "How would you like something to munch? My droogs and me are having a git-to-get over the way, would you like to join?"
"No thanks we-"
"Come now, I insist!"
A short scream came from behind Venture as a darkbolt grabbed Shigos by her newfoud wings. The pony, now reviled as a keshi, approached the little helpless filly.
In her desperation, the filly shouted out "Stop!"
Munch to everyponies surprise, and against all reason, that actually worked. The keshi stopped in in his tracks. Seeing the effectiveness of her statement, she decided to go for broke.
"Now, you, um... you leave us alone right now!"
The keshi gave a blank stare for a few moments before turning to his compatriot.
"Oy! Lest itty. These malenky sods ain't worth the trubble, lets get-gone."
Needless to say this confused the darkbolt to no end, a confusion compounded by the filly in his mouth shed it's wings and ran off.
The two Diomede ponies, too confused by the whole turn of events failed to give chase to the yong foals.
Said foals managed to quickly make it to the safety of the fort, only to face another, fare more frightening foe. A very angry looking Commander Starkey.
------------------------------------------------
That's right, my diomedes speak Nadsat! If you want your diomedes to speak Nadsat too, get the translator here: http://reocities.com/Athens/Academy/1974/nadsat.html
That removes a pice of evidence pointing at Friesden, but if you don't like, let me know! I can edit or remove if need be. I don't want to step on anybodys toes here.
Post by: Dsarker on October 12, 2011, 07:43:55 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 12, 2011, 09:33:00 pm
Khenal, accepted the position of Captain of the Guard. I've also assigned a few ponies to work under him, including the unicorn mare ranger, and the other hunter, both are pretty good shots. And three others who have had very basic weapon training, in axes, hammers, and hooves respectfully. Khenal will have his work cut out for him turning them into competent guards, but I trust him. We are going to start digging out a small office for Khenal, and a little prison cell, for our murderer.
With the fate of Efim now known, I've decided to make a small memorial for him. I don't want to disturb the body just yet. Khenal, will probably still want to look it over for any clues he can find.
14th Malachite, 96
Disaster, a complete disaster. as our engravers where digging little windows into the adamant, to check for the beasts of legend that supposedly live underneath the blue metal, a mistake was made and the great magma sea was breached, 3 lumps of raw adamant where covered in deep magma, and a lot that could have been mined is now unsafe. Fortunately, no pony was hurt, however, this is still very disappointing. It might be possible to use magma pumps to clear the area, but it won't be easy.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/adamant%20fail.png)
Addendum:
I've had a request come across my desk for the production of a half dozen enormous wooden corkscrews to bolster our trap defenses. I've decided to allow it and will have the manager fill out the appropriate paperwork for a rush job.
17th Malachite, 96
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Tislam%20baby.png)
such a cute little unicorn.
19th Malachite, 96
Khenal's office is coming along splendidly, once it's smoothed, it might even be better than mine. We decided the room needed a few statues, Pillomino made one of herself carving a cabinet, not wanting to be outdone by her I crafted a beautiful statue of myself, showing the day I was chosen to as Overseer. Khenal seemed uncomfortable with this selection of statues for his office, but I can't imagine why? Cryptson decided to dig out five different cells, and a private barracks for the Town Guard. In each of the cells we will place a single zinc chain, a bed, a table, a chair, and two barrels, one for food, and the other for drink.
3rd Galena, 96
Thundersplinter called out, from the top of her tower that she's still working diligently on, that Honey Badger Pony had been injured by the traps leading into the fortress. The Fortress Guard put the creature out of it's misery. Knowing where there is one of those things their is more, Khenal lead his squad on a merry little hunt, killed about 6 more of them. Great, more Badger Pony pie.
Addendum:
As the the ponies where returning from the hunt, and we were bringing in the badger carcasses. Something shown brightly upon the Horizon.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Nonub%20Ikudaved.png)
Gods save us all.
Thought I would share what the outside of the fortress is like right now. It's not very impressive. The tower is still under construction. Mostly, cause I designate the next part, go do something else, come back much later when it's done, then put the next part, and repeat. Their is one floor above this one, that stonesence won't show at the same time as the base, the purple blocks are a wall that is not finished yet. I'm planning on adding several more floors, before calling it finished. It's made entirely of wooden blocks, with cobalt block floors on the first floor. The stone wall is almost entirely granite, with the external layer and fortifications made of granite blocks.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Outside1.png)
Post by: Khenal on October 13, 2011, 02:06:41 am
Ugh, the position does come with paperwork duties. Gotta suck it up, but it doesn't mean I have to like the stuff. The murder scene was a huge mess. The body was almost totally bones, which I was thankful for. After all, bones don't really have much odor to them. Death looked to have come from multiple stab wounds from my old copper spear. Damnit, I knew I should have made sure it was accounted for! The amount of blood everywhere, along with a multitude of gashes in the bones says it took poor Efim a while to die.
His wings are missing. How they were removed is a mystery. They could have been simply ripped off or removed with great care, there aren't any nicks in the bones around where the wings should have been attached. The window and lever to actuate the spear indicate we are dealing with one sick pony. Whoever they are, they watched as Efim was repeatedly impaled. Grr, I'm too angry to continue right now, my Book. I'm going to go train, hopefully work this off before meeting the rest of the guard for the first time as their captain.
Chapter 18
Goodness, was I this terrible when I first signed up for martial training? The two rangers are doing quite well, but the other recruits need serious work. I'm gonna ask Commander Starkey for advice, and to see if he can still help me in my personal training. I also need to ask the Captain of the ranged squad for advice on how to train the rangers.
The Adamantine mining area suffered a huge blow recently. Apparently they sprung a small magma leak, and couldn't stop it before the area flooded. The blue metal still makes me uneasy, but it's hard to argue against mining the stuff. Afterall, that dagger is truly a thing of beauty.
Chapter 19
Dr. Friesden has been even odder than usual lately. She practically jumped out of her skin when I greeted her in the hall earlier today. Maybe she's worried about the murderer? I asked her to examine what was left of the body, so she knows about it. She made a whole bunch of detailed observations about the body and also the potential state-of-mind of the murderer. Most of what she said went over my head, but she did say that the wings were carefully removed. If they were ripped off, there would have been damage to the surrounding bones as well.
The new jail is coming along quite well; five cells and a barracks for the Guard. Speaking of jails, my office is coming along quickly as well. The statues are...interesting. The one depicting Mrs. Charity becoming the overseer makes sense, but the other one is just plain odd. I appreciate that it must have been a good cabinet, but does it really need a statue commemorating it's construction?
Chapter 20
Thunder Splinter spotted a wounded badgerpegasus, so the Guard was called to put it out of it's misery. That reminded me of the hunting Commander Starkey had us do to help us learn tactics and teamwork. I asked Mrs. Charity to allow me to take the Guard hunting, and she agreed. To the hunt!
***********
Darn diagonal flow messing up careful Adamantine mining :P Instead of trying to pump out the magma, maybe try obsidianizing it? Leave the tiles with wafers alone and obsidianize the rest of it. You could then dig/channel out enough room for those tiles to evaporate and get the adamantine back. Channel out above and designate ponds :)
The stonesense (more like horsesense!) image is sweet!
Also: Bronze Colossus!
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 13, 2011, 02:33:33 am
Early Galena:
While checking the stability of the Air Control Tower - I am quite pleased with progress, and it just needs a few more levels to be acceptable - I noticed a wounded honey badger pony struggling away from one of Nicolta's traps, and the bored Fortress Guard were easily stirred into action.
After that bit of excitement, and installing a few more wooden blocks, I received confirmation to build wooden corkscrews which I hope will secure the fortress from invasion.
In other news, the experiment with ground up fish scales did not go well. The effect was interesting, but was more like iridescent glitter than the pearleascence I was aiming for, plus the fact that it still ponged like fish, and the fisherpony gladly supplied some dried fish, but the scales lost most of their iridescence and grinding them up just made a really fine powder that smelled like fish. Might have to abandon that avenue for a while and go with Ironya's suggestion of powdering some metal, the miners have located small depsotis of cobaltite which we might be able to make into something wothwhile.
After some tweaking in the carpentry shop, I was able to construct a passable brush by using the tail hairs of the latest batch of honey badger ponies, they have been a source of inspiration as well as filling the pantry. Speaking of which, time for some cupcakes and midnight berry wine.
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: Dsarker on October 13, 2011, 04:45:54 am
By all the gods, goddesses, demigods, heroes and any other deities you can think of!
Some pony has -killed- another here! Watched them BLEED TO DEATH AS THEY WERE STABBED REPEATEDLY IN FRONT OF THEM LIKE THE STOP IT! Or I'll get Khenal! YOU WOULDN'T DARE, YOU COWARD! YOU DON'T HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO I said stop it! I won't warn you again! HA! I KNOW WHO KILLED THE PONY AND SO DO YOU! I'M YOUR ONLY CHANCE OF SURVIVAL. No, you're not! Khenal would help me! NO HE WOULDN'T. HE'S JUST LIKE ALL THE OTHERS, HATING EVERYPONY BUT THEMSELVES. BUT I CARE ABOUT YOU no you don't! You just want to do your experiments on them! But i'm telling you HE KNOWS, YOU KNOW, AND I KNOW. ONLY ONE OPTION, EH? i won't kill Khenal! No matter what, I'd rather die than kill a pony! I'LL DO IT FOR YOU, THEN. WE NEED THOSE WINGS BACK SO WE CAN FRAME HIM FOR THE CRIME i told you no! We're not killing anyone else! It'll die down soon, then I'll deal with you properly.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 15, 2011, 02:31:30 pm
The marksponies took up defensive positions upon the walls, fearful that their bone and wooden bolts would be useless against this foe. The melee squad and the rest of the Fortress guard sat in the main courtyard, and waited. The prebattle jitters got to one pony however, Munest Sodkatdir. A hammerpony assigned to work under Khenal. He disobeyed orders, broke ranks, and charged off on his own toward the beast.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/The%20Titan.png)
It was a brutal beat down. The brave hammerpony fought valiantly, but his kicks, and hammer strikes glanced away ineffectually.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Dead.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/It%20was%20brutal.png)
Standing victorious over the broken pony, the bronze mountainous thing, took off once more, toward the walls, toward Glitterglen. The brave ponies, held their ground, save for one. Egom Singdumpling, an amateur axepony. He had followed the first out, but upon seeing the death of his comrade had tried to flee back to the walls. He was caught by the gargantuan villain, just as the marksponies unleashed their first volley. Egom dodges, counter attacks, the blow fails the penetrate, the titan attacks, Egom evades. Knowing he would surely fall without help, and not wanting to lose another pony today. Starkey, and Khenal, call for a charge. The help arrived not a moment to soon. beaten and battered with a broken leg, Egom, knowing the end was about to take him had been saying one last prayer to Kulet Orblens the Mindful Watchfulness of Poems. Perhaps the gods were listening this day, because as the Bronze Colossus raised its hand to strike him down, Osal, the Markspony, ran up and hit the Titan with his crossbow. The creature threw Egom where he passed out on the ground. And in a wave, the entire army of Glitterglen, descended upon the monstrous thing. Spears flashed, axes swing, whips crack, bolts fly. Many attacks glance away, but a few fracture the beast, it can't keep this up for long. But each second that goes by it strikes somepony, and the militia will tire long before it will.
After a long and tiring fight. The thing fell. Defeated. The final strike had been from the earth pony Langgud and his silver whip. But the victory belonged, not to him, but to all the brave ponies of Glitterglen. Nonub Reignedclobbered the Cuts of Domination the bronze colossus, was no more.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/The%20cuts%20of%20Domination.png)
Charity's Journal 8th Galena, 96
The fight with the Bronze Colossus, was a great success. Only one casualty, and one injured. Well some had a few bruises, but only one required any time in the hostpital. Egom, will be out with a broken leg for a while, but overall, it could have been a lot worse. The body of the beast, it being set up like a statue, inside the barracks of the Fortress Guard, as a constant reminder of why they must train.
Charity's Journal 10th Galena, 96
A double funeral was held today for Efim and Munest. I made a speech about Efim, in which I reveled to the entire fortress about the murderer, still lose in the Fortress, and told them to make sure they report any suspicious behavior to our Captain Khenal. Since then Efim's ghost hasn't been seen.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Put%20to%20rest.png)
Post by: Khenal on October 15, 2011, 03:20:22 pm
A bronze colossus. I had only ever heard legends about them, but had thought them just that: Legends. Unfortunatly, they are all too real.
It appeared while the Guard and I were out hunting. Thunder Splinter gave the alarm from the (still under construction) tower. I knew the Guard was no match for it, so I ordered a retreat to Glitter Glen proper. This was an outside threat, and a major one as well, so I deferred to Commander Starkey's lead. After all, he's the Commander for a reason. We were getting into formation when I noticed two of my guards were absent. Wait, not absent, but charging the Colussus on their own! Munest and Egom, still learning the basics of using their weapons, were surely going to die. Munest was faster than Egom, and reached the colossus with enough time for it to crush him before Egom could get there.
As the monster closed on Egom and began striking him, I ordered the Guard to charge. Commander Starkey ordered the Army to charge as well. The battle was long and arduous, but we managed to save Egom, though his leg was badly broken.
I... I feel a bit numb. I think it hasn't sunk in yet that Munest is gone. I'm going to talk to Commander Starkey about it, and maybe Dr. Friesden. She's a doctor, maybe she knows about mental trauma as well as physical.
Chapter 22
We buried Efim and Munest today. I'm still a bit unfocused, I forgot that Mrs. Charity was planning to let the fort know of Efim's murder today. I'd rather keep it quiet so as not to make everypony worry, but they do have a right to know about this threat. I doubt anypony can give me any new leads this long after the murder, but I'll hear whatever they have to say. Who knows, it wouldn't be the first time I was wrong.
************
Ya, Khenal's taking the first death in his squad hard.
On an only tangentially related topic: today's episode was epic!
Post by: Impending Doom on October 15, 2011, 08:33:56 pm
- - - - - -
8th Galena, '96
That was stupid of me. I have no business joking at a time like this.
We were attacked by some kind of enormous automata today. It was made of solid bronze, too strong for our weapons to cut through. We just had to keep wailing on it 'till the metal turned brittle with fatigue, and shattered. The thing didn't let us go without a few parting gifts, though. The fortress guard took the brunt of it. One of their ponies is in the hospital, nursing a broken leg. Another...
I should go speak with Khenal. He's a strong lad, I can't imagine he'd take it too hard. But just to be sure...
- - - - - -
10th Galena, '96
So we have a murderer in Glitterglen. One who likes to kill ponies with insane mechanical contraptions, and relieve pegasi of their wings. Not sure about the death chamber part, but based on the mutilation, I'd be inclined to say this was racially motivated.
But I'm not a guard anymore, I'm a soldier. This is Khenal's task. Doesn't mean I won't give him advice if he asks, but I'll let him act on it himself.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 16, 2011, 12:16:23 am
An interesting thing happened today. Peytrel was watching the militia train again. Seeing as how Peytrel isn't quite the little pony that he used to be, Starkey decided to humor the boy and show him how to do a few basic moves with his axe. But young Peytrel surprised both of them by, cutting a training dummy in two with one swing. A bright light flashed, and then, Peytrel had his cutie-mark. It was an axe over a shield. Peytrel is not a child anymore. He is ready for more responsibility, and it seems that he wants to join Starkey's squad more than anything. It will be so.
13th Galena 96
The mayor has passed a law which makes the export of steel, from Glitterglen, punishable by imprisonment. I agree with his decision. While I doubt anyone would be foolish enough to sell our limited and precious steel supply to any of the caravans, a little extra incentive, not to, can't hurt.
14th Galena 96
A zebra pony caravan has arrived. We traded with them for a good deal of metal goods, cloth, leather, and fish that aren't native to this area. Overall we made out well.
28th Limestone 96
Peytral made his first kills today. He was out with the woodcutters as they were cutting trees. I think it was his day off and he was helping carry some timber inside. Regardless, three stranglers attacked. He and one war dog lept to their defense. The war dog was killed, but Peytral killed all three of them.
Oh my god. A pony community fort.
Dibs on the next miner!
I bet you thought I forgot about you. But, no, I've just been putting off getting another miner.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 4th Sandstone 96
Cryptson has been wanting to take an apprentice for a while now. And now that he's a father, and husband, that desire has been growing. His work keeps him busy, and away from Adamant and me for far to long, had we more miners anywhere near as skilled as him, he would have more time to spend with his family. So, Starting today he his going to be training the earth pony Grifen in his trade. They're going to start with a simple project, they are going to dig out a huge area of the soil layer to use as both an underground tree farm, and, after some moss grows up a pasture area for our livestock that is safely inside our walls. Cryptson tells me that this will be good training for Grifen.
5th Sandstone 96
A new group of ponies has come. A relatively small number. Probably more banished individuals, although, I know some of our number have come here of their own violation, could be more thrill seekers, coming to live an exciting life on the fridges of society. If so they will disappointed.
This time we got, a scrawny looking, male spear pegasus, (sent him to join the guard, Khenal should be able to put some muscle on his frame) a female pegasus jeweler, unfortunately for her, she showed us some of her work and compared to Nicolta's gems they are rank amateur. A female seige operator pegasi, she seemed to complain about the lack of siege weapons making up our defenses. A male pegasus butcher/farmer. A very experience fisherpony/leatherworker male pegasus. and a male earthpony furnace operator.
14th Sandstone 96
I passed by Khenal's office this afternoon and smelled a horrible smell. I went in the room and found that he left his food sitting out in the middle of the room. It had rotted on the floor. What a disgusting slob. I hope he can explain this. It sets a bad example to those who look up to him.
Looking at the food on the floor, it looks like Khenal didn't want to finish his Diomedian pony intestines, baked bad stuffed with three units of minced blue peafowl tallow. I can't imagine why.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Khenal%27s%20office%20stinks.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Isos.png)
a little earthpony filly. The mother is one of Khenal's recruits. Uses a knife as her preferred weapon. Pretty skilled with it too, considering she holds it with her mouth. We've been allowing her to use the blue dagger Ironya made awhile back, Goodsnarled the Principle of Slowing, that's what she called it.
Charity's Journal 17th Sandstone 96
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Bem%20poss.png)
Bem dropped his barrel of food in the middle of the food stockpile, and ran down the stairs like a pony possessed. Threw Bokbon out of her craftshop and locked himself in. He then acquired two piles of logs, a roll of pigtail cloth, and a sheet of strangler leather. He's been working ever since. We can hear him muttering Kiroshot, over and over again.
22nd Sandstone 96
Bem has finished his Kiroshot. It's an earring. Now, don't get me wrong, it's a very nice earring, it's just, I mean did he really need all those logs just to make one. And he destroyed enough leather to make an entire cloak, or shirt, and just made a few little decorations on his wooden earring. It just seems wasteful.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Kiroshot.png)
28th Sandstone 96
Kil a unicorn mare that I don't really know well had a little unicorn boy today.
________________________________________________________________________________
Question, what is required in order to make a wood painting workshop work. I have some of the new plants, and they have milled into dye. They are listed under powder. I have an abundance of wood. But still the workshop won't let me make painted wood. What else is needed?
Post by: Nidokoenig on October 16, 2011, 12:45:53 am
Code: [Select]
[REAGENT:dye:100:NONE:NONE:NONE:NONE]to this
Code: [Select]
[REAGENT:dye:100:POWDER_MISC:NONE:NONE:NONE]in reaction_paint_wood.txt in your save's raws and that should fix it. I'll be going over the reactions before the next update to fix this up.
And just to be certain, is everything in proper stockpiles, are burrows/doors not an issue, and is the plant_standard.txt file you're using the one from MLF? I know these are really simple things but it's annoying how often a simple mistake is what's causing the bug.
Post by: Khenal on October 16, 2011, 02:55:00 am
I've been in a bad way ever since Munest died. I had gotten myself some food, I don't even remember what it was now. I just sat in my office, thinking about what I could have done to save Munest, but everything I could think of only traded one life for another. Even if I had charged the colossus, I could only hope to have it smash me instead. Forgetting my food, I started wandering the halls. Mrs. Charity confronted me about the stink my neglected meal was creating, told me that far too many ponies looked up to me for me to leave a mess like that.
Do ponies actually look up to me? Even after Munest? It seemed unlikely, but Mrs. Charity isn't one to sugar coat anything. I apologized for the odor and said it wouldn't happen again.
If ponies are going to look up to me, I need to get this murder solved. Every murder has three main ingredients: Means, Motive and Method. Motive appeared to be something to do with the wings, though what is a mystery. Method was the spear trap. Who in this fortress has the Means to create a weapon trap? I know Nicolta Tesla can make traps, his works are currently installed in the main entrance as a first line defense. Wasn't somepony helping him with those? I need to ask Mrs. Charity about this, see if anypony else has the aptitude to create a trap like this.
*********
I'll use the pony creator tomorrow, unless somebody beats me to it :)
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 16, 2011, 02:36:37 pm
My second son was born today! My little unicorn. He has the prettiest eyes the color of raw cobalt. Cobalt, yes, I think that's what I'll name him. Cobalt.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 4th Timber 96
Khenal came and asked me for a list of ponies who are known to be able to work with machines. Specifically those that were already here during the time when Efim vanished. The following is a copy of the list I gave him.
Suspect list
Nicolta Tesla
Istbar Zephyrslap (female earthpony fisher/mechanic)
Friesden (he had been working as our mechanic before Nicolta showed up and replaced him)
Their is also, another, but he only arrived after the currently believed time of death, and is there for not a suspect.
These are all the ponies that I know had the mechanics skill at the time of the murder. However, it is possible that, others could have been lying about it, and hiding their talents, especially if they were already planning this when they arrived.
5th Timber 96
One of the pegasus children. A young friend of Peytrel has grown up and taken up his first job, in the markspony squad.
11th Timber 96
We have successfully dug a tunnel from the underground lake to the entry point of the magma, into our adamantine mining area. Since no more can now get in, I think trying to pump it out into a sealed reservoir our best bet. I'll contact Nicolta about how best to build a magma pump.
13th Timber 96
A cave pony caravan has arrived. Glad to see they aren't too upset about the disagreement we had last year.
25th Timber 96
A little accident happened today. I had asked for some chimpanzees to be moved from one set of cages to another. However, during the move the animals rioted, fortunately Starkey happened to be walking by as it attacked and quickly put it down.
OOC: thought it was tame and had just came off the caravan my mistake, it was actually fresh from the jungle.
14th Moonstone 96
Venture's mother the brewer, gave birth again today, a little pegasus boy.
16th Moonstone 96
The magma is finally being pumped away from the raw adamant. Starkey volunteered to operate the pump. Says, it's good work for building muscles.
23rd Moonstone 96
Thanks to Commander Starkey sacrificing his days off to work the pump, the adamantine chamber is now mostly empty. The floor is still molten (a lot of 1/7 magma) but is expected to cool (evaporate) soon, and then we can finally get back to the adamant.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 16, 2011, 03:10:38 pm
I made a new friend today book.
His name is Munest. He's kind of like Mr. greywings, kinda blurry and hard to see strait. I found him kinda just... wandering around inside the fort. He was trying to talk to some ponies, but I don't think they could hear him. He looked really super scared, so I talked to him. I guess he's a ghost or something, because I told him about the funeral we had, and he remembers getting hit by that big metal statue thing. But I thought that ghosts go away when you have a funeral don't they? I tried to show him to the door the other ghosts used (different place this time, but still found it on the first try), but the door is all covered in these, black, vine, chain, things and it won't budge. He's still super scared, so I let him stay with me until we can figure it out. I hope nopony minds.
---
Hey Book!
Guss what! My brother got his cutie mark today! Isn't that great! It's an ax too, and hes in the guard now! Its all so exiting! I mean its like all hes dreams are coming true, but, that got me thinking. I don't know what I want to be. I guess I never thought about it before now. But that's not Important, my brother is a stallion today! YAY!
---
I meet some zebras today book!
They were so cool too. They talked in rhymes and they had a story teller with them! Me and my brothers and all the fillies and colts in the fort went to here her. She told the story of Goddess Luna, and the filly who cried snatcher and all sorts of stories. The best part was thatnopony had the black vines on that mammy got me and little sky toys.
---
Book
I-
My-
The th
I don't have bad dreams anymore. That's good right? Ya, so that balances out the bad stuff that comes next. That's what Munest said. The bad thing is that, the bad stuff is when I'm awake now.
Sometimes, I can see these terrible things on ponies. Like the black vines on the door. And the ponies are different then they were before. There angry, or nevus all the time, or... just bad. The other foals play mean games and hurt little animals. The gurds all brag about killing things slowly so they hurt more. Mr. Khenal is OK though, it's not got him all the way yet.
Some times I can see mommy all covered in cuts and bruises, but then there not there anymore, and some times cutie marks will look different. They start to look terrible. Jagged knives and skulls and blood.
I saw the scary pony from before as a ghost. He was running and crying. The black vines got him, started dragging him into the ground, he was screaming "HELP ME HELP ME HELP ME".
Munest ran away, I can't find him. I can hear him, running from the vines too.
Ms. Friesden has strings coming out of her, black strings. I can see them now all the time. There hurting her, I know they are.
I want to tell some pony, I really do, but they will think I'm crazy. I know they will. Khenal is so busy now a days he can't even talk to me. I see him covered in chains sometimes, pulling him down. I don't know what to do.
I'm scared book.
---
No! I won't eat it it's wrong! It's wrong! They were ponies! They talked, they walked, they were thinking things and it's wrong! I wont eat it! I'll starve before I eat it! I WONT I WONT I WONT DO IT ITS WRONG!!!
I have to find little sky! I have too find my baby brother! I have to make sure he's OK! I Have Too!
His name is Munest. He's kind of like Mr. greywings, kinda blurry and hard to see strait. I found him kinda just... wandering around inside the fort. He was trying to talk to some ponies, but I don't think they could hear him. He looked really super scared, so I talked to him. I guess he's a ghost or something, because I told him about the funeral we had, and he remembers getting hit by that big metal statue thing. But I thought that ghosts go away when you have a funeral don't they? I tried to show him to the door the other ghosts used (different place this time, but still found it on the first try), but the door is all covered in these, black, vine, chain, things and it won't budge. He's still super scared, so I let him stay with me until we can figure it out. I hope nopony minds.
---
Hey Book!
Guss what! My brother got his cutie mark today! Isn't that great! It's an ax too, and hes in the guard now! Its all so exiting! I mean its like all hes dreams are coming true, but, that got me thinking. I don't know what I want to be. I guess I never thought about it before now. But that's not Important, my brother is a stallion today! YAY!
---
I meet some zebras today book!
They were so cool too. They talked in rhymes and they had a story teller with them! Me and my brothers and all the fillies and colts in the fort went to here her. She told the story of Goddess Luna, and the filly who cried snatcher and all sorts of stories. The best part was that
---
Book
I don't have bad dreams anymore. That's good right? Ya, so that balances out the bad stuff that comes next. That's what Munest said. The bad thing is that, the bad stuff is when I'm awake now.
Sometimes, I can see these terrible things on ponies. Like the black vines on the door. And the ponies are different then they were before. There angry, or nevus all the time, or... just bad. The other foals play mean games and hurt little animals. The gurds all brag about killing things slowly so they hurt more. Mr. Khenal is OK though, it's not got him all the way yet.
Some times I can see mommy all covered in cuts and bruises, but then there not there anymore, and some times cutie marks will look different. They start to look terrible. Jagged knives and skulls and blood.
I saw the scary pony from before as a ghost. He was running and crying. The black vines got him, started dragging him into the ground, he was screaming "HELP ME HELP ME HELP ME".
Munest ran away, I can't find him. I can hear him, running from the vines too.
Ms. Friesden has strings coming out of her, black strings. I can see them now all the time. There hurting her, I know they are.
I want to tell some pony, I really do, but they will think I'm crazy. I know they will. Khenal is so busy now a days he can't even talk to me. I see him covered in chains sometimes, pulling him down. I don't know what to do.
I'm scared book.
---
No! I won't eat it it's wrong! It's wrong! They were ponies! They talked, they walked, they were thinking things and it's wrong! I wont eat it! I'll starve before I eat it! I WONT I WONT I WONT DO IT ITS WRONG!!!
I have to find little sky! I have too find my baby brother! I have to make sure he's OK! I Have Too!
---------------------------------------------------------
Post by: Khenal on October 16, 2011, 04:28:39 pm
Three ponies were known to have the skills to create a spear trap at the time of Efim's death: Nicolta Tesla, Dr. Friesden, Istbar Zephyrslap.
...And I'm stumped on how to proceed. I could question them directly, but if one of them really is the murderer, it would only warn them and give them a chance to slip away. I could try talking to their friends/family, but that's also likely to raise suspicions. I've noticed that I'm not the only one to keep a book, so I could theoretically confiscate them as potential evidence, but that's far too extreme. It's also a huge invasion of privacy, especially if the murderer doesn't keep a book. And it also gives the murderer a chance to escape.
Wait, I'm trying to question the wrong ponies. I have ponies with the means now, so maybe I should try finding motive? I'll try talking to Efim's family/friends, see who could have possibly had reason to cause him harm. Apparently, most murders are done by ponies who know the victim.
Chapter 25
When did Peytrel join the army? I only noticed him in uniform when I went out to see what the cave pony caravan brought to trade. They were exceptionally nervous around me, and if they are the same merchants form last year, I don't blame them. I couldn't even bring myself to look them in the eyes from the memories. I bought several tomes on magic and requested they bring more next year if they could. I asked specifically about divination and awareness magic tomes, but any would be appreciated. They charged me through the nose for the books, but I couldn't bring myself to haggle much.
Seeing Peytrel reminded me that I haven't talked to Venture in a while. With the promotion, colossus and the murder investigation, I haven't had time. Not to mention that I had run out of things to teach her. Maybe I'll try talking to her over lunch. I've only been able to stomach what comes from the fields lately. It was only from my funk that I even grabbed the tripe that I forgot about in my room a week ago. I couldn't have hoped to keep something like that down, blech! Hopefully these books will give me something to help her reach her potential safely.
************
The investigation continues, and Khenal is on the right track, though he doesn't know it. It will likely take a real break in the case for him to finally nail Dr. Friesden, though. She seems like a thorough and careful pony. I'm not gonna rain on Dsarker's parade without his consent :)
As promised: here's Grifen, our aspiring miner pony!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Haspen on October 16, 2011, 05:03:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 16, 2011, 05:10:53 pm
Friesden DOESN'T HAVE A DIARY WE'VE TRICKED YOU 's diary.
Well, today NOTHING HAPPENED. AS USUAL. TALK TALK TALK THAT'S ALL YOU EVER DO. YOU'VE GOT TO I met Khenal again. I don't know.... Anyway, some of the foals were playing again. Venture, I think it was, IS A NOSY FOAL WHO DOESN'T KNOW HOW TO KEEP HER NOSE OUT OF OTHER PEOPLE'S BUSINESS, AND IT PROBABLY WASN'T US WHO DID IT IF HER NOSE GETS CHOPPED OFF was watching me strangely. I'm not sure what happened....
Anyway, I was walking down the WAY THAT HAS MADNESS LYING AFTER IT. HAHAHA corridor, and....I don't know how to say this... I think someponies are hunting me WELL THEY ARE, KHENAL IS THEIR BOSS AND HE WANTS YOU DEAD and I don't know why.
I'm scared. I think I should run away before WE GET TO KILL ANYMORE? ARE YOU INSANE? HAHAHA, TRICK QUESTION, OF COURSE YOU ARE INSANE! they do it. I'm really scared, diary.
I need help.
LOVE, FRIESden.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 19, 2011, 01:17:49 am
Ironya had a scare today. While walking outside the walls with her baby boy, her and the others who were outside, were attacked by a troop of Mandrills and a single Elephant Pony. Ironya and her baby ran back inside, jumped over the trap and one of the creatures was scewered by enormous wooden screws, wooden bolts, and spikes from the earth. The others ran right into Khenal, responding to the yelling on the surface. Khenal killed the Elephant pony. And then he killed the rest of the filthy apes that tried to escape. Cut one's head clean off. With a spear! I kid you not.
Charity's Secret Journal 11th Opal 96
Oh my little pony isn't so little anymore. Adamant, went out to play with the other foals today. It's the first time he's been away from his Mommy for any length of time. I told Venture to look out for him. Strangely, Venture seemed kind of off the entire time I was talking to her. Probably just didn't sleep well, I've heard she suffers from night-terrors. I sympathize with the filly and her parents are always so busy, I wish there was something we could do for her.
Oh Adamant is back now. Seems he tripped and scrapped his chin, sounds like he's was trying to say something about Venture, but I couldn't catch it over the tears, The kids were probably just roughhousing or playing on the stairs again or something.
Charity's Journal 13th Opal 96
The fortress guard has returned from it's little hunting trip. Khenal, said he needed some time off to clear his head of the investigation, so he could look at it from a fresh perspective, so he took his men out on a hunting trip. They brought back, several Mandrills, two silver gibbons, and more Siamangs then I can count. The butchers will be hard pressed to process them all before they rot. Hm. Better have Cryptson and Grifen make a room for a second butchers/tanners. Not that we even need the meat, our entire food industry could take a year off and we'd still all be fat and happy.
Charity's Journal 26th Opal 96
I've been informed that Shasad Spewgerbil our woodcutter/carpenter (And father of Venture) has suddenly taken over one of our craft-shops, disrupting production. His wife seemed upset about the whole thing. Said he's hardly said a word to her or their children in days. I'll have to post somepony to watch him, he could be dangerous.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Withdrawn.png)
Addendum
My posted guard has reported back to me that Shasad has grabbed three piles of unprocessed logs and one large granite block, and seems to be building something.
3rd Obsidian 96
Shasad has finally finished what he was building. It's a marvelous wooden door. decorated with spikes of granite. He calls it UnionsArrows. It's very beautiful. I was going to just put it in the dinning room, but he insisted that it was to be a gift to his eldest son, and so it is being put as the entrance to Peytrel's room. Seems a waste to me.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Unionsarrows.png)
Post by: Khenal on October 19, 2011, 02:31:46 pm
Talking to Efim's family and friends has helped to eliminate Nicolta Tesla as a suspect. They said he was working with somepony on a mechanics project, and he felt she was "quite a looker." None of them had met her, though. Nor could they remember any details if Efim ever mentioned them, but at least my suspects are narrowed down to two. Now that there's a mechanic here who isn't a suspect, maybe we can get that trap taken apart carefully. I haven't touched it since the room was discovered for fear of destroying some important clue. I'll ask Mr. Tesla to deconstruct the trap carefully and help me look for any clues in the mechanisms.
Chapter 27
The jungle has some very colorful and very angry monkeys. Several ponies were outside enjoying the nice day when they were set upon by an elephant pony and a group of what Charity tells me are mandrills. Ironya and the others made it inside the walls with the angry animals hot on their hooves. The traps kept the beasts outside, where I engaged them with several of the guard. I need to compliment Ironya on her craftponyship, this spear has an excellent edge on it. I was actually able to decapitate one of the mandrills because of it. The rest of the guard is still pretty green, maybe we should go hunting again. After all, our last trip was interrupted by that colossus.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 19, 2011, 05:38:58 pm
Khenal and Nicolta Tesla oversaw the deconstruction of the murder weapon today. We also, removed the window (Thinking about putting it up someplace, though it might be to much of a sad reminder of the tradgedy) Cryptson even tore down the walls for material. Walking down that hallway now it's as if that retched hole never existed. I think that's for the best.
16th Obsidian 96
Happy days! The floor of the adamant mine is finally cool, that accident set us back on gathering raw Adamantine for several seasons, but now mining can begin again. Grifen looks positively overjoyed to finally get to dig up some of the blue metal with his own hoofs. We threw a party to celebrate.
At the party I saw Ironya's two kids playing around with the other foals. They grow up so fast, feels like just yesterday that she gave birth to little Itur during the Diomedian raid.
19th Obsidian 96
The caravan from home has arrived. I hope they brought the iron and steel we asked for. As has one from the Rainbow tribe.
The leader of the pony carvan, had a letter to me barring the seal of the Royal family. The letter was as follows.
Dear Charity Conventtulips Overseer of the town of Glitterglen
Due to your monumental success in claiming a part of the Failed Jungles for our great nation of The Shells of Dance, in my name. I have decided to officially recognize this Glitterglen as a Barony of The Shells of Dance. And since you have done so well as to survive this long, I am promoting you to the position of Baroness. However, as a Barony you now have certain responsibilities to the kingdom at large, specifically taxes. Starting when the next caravan comes the following year. The town of Glitterglen is to provide goods in value of at least 10,000 bits as an offering to the Royal Family, naturally, failure to comply with the tax law will lead to Glitterglen being declared a rouge state, and will be delt with likewise.
Signed Princess Dizesh Hugwax of The Shells of Dance
Charity's Journal
That bitch. She's trying to make it sound like she planned this all along. She sends us out here to die like animals, and when we survive against the odds, she decides to tax us for the privilege. Unbelievable! Fortunately, the amount is such that our craftsponies should be able to handle it easily. Although I'd bet my life that she's going to raise it next year. Regardless, I best gather the citizens and inform them of what the Princess is doing.
Baroness Charity's Journal 13th Granite 96
Construction is just about finished on my families private dinning room. It has a pair of beautifully worked tables and chair by Thundersplinter and an amazing clear glass statue of the founding of Glitterglen decorated by several types of native gemstones. Truly a great work of art. Along side a pair of masterfully carved granite cabinets for storing our things. Only thing missing is that the walls are kind of bare. I'll call Theorpod over to see what he thinks would look nice.
18th Granite 96
The traders left late yesterday. We acquired a lot of metal. Enough to outfit several more ponies in full steel and bronze. We traded a lot of our preserved meats to them. Our farms are easily enough to keep us feed and our stockpiles were becoming to full. The traders also, had a good deal of sand. Enough to keep our glass-worker busy for a month or two at least.
Addendum: A swarm of Parasprites has been spotted on the surface. They are harassing our surface workers, who are asking me to deal with the problem. I'll need to think of how best to deal with a swarm of tiny flying things. Maybe the Pegasus squad can herd them away from the town. I'll talk to the militia leaders about the best course of action.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 19, 2011, 10:21:33 pm
Book, I don't know what to do.
I was playing with Andy and little Sky today. I was going to show them how to play jumping Janes. The black vines came back. I screamed, closed the door. I, can't remember everything that happen. Andy ran away crying, Sky's looking at me like I'm a monster. I don't know what to do! I think I hit Andy, but I don't know why or... I don't know! I don't know!
I was playing with Andy and little Sky today. I was going to show them how to play jumping Janes. The black vines came back. I screamed, closed the door. I, can't remember everything that happen. Andy ran away crying, Sky's looking at me like I'm a monster. I don't know what to do! I think I hit Andy, but I don't know why or... I don't know! I don't know!
----
Peytrel put down the journal, rubbing his temples. He hadn't wanted to believe it. He hated to believe it. Frankly, he should have seen it before now, he was so run up in being a guard that it slipped by. The royals have always hated there family, why would this one be any different. Everything seemed to become clearer when dad ha finished that door. It was like he could only think clearly around that door. He finally saw what was happening to Venture, and he knew how was responsible for it, and not just for her. He had found the books in Khenal's office. Magic books, all based on mind spells. How to get ponies to do what you want to do. His little lessons with Venture... He's relation with Friesden... It all came together now. It was time to stop putting this off, he had to go talk to the Cap'n. He knew how the murderer was. Nopony hurt his family, not even Khenal.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 20, 2011, 01:05:39 am
- - - - - -
Private Peytrel came to me today. I had figured he was here for more one-on-one training - ever since he enlisted, the lad has really been throwing himself into his work. Instead, he told me he wanted to have a talk about something. Seemed to believe he knew who had killed Efim. Then he gave me the name.
Khenal.
I came very close to knocking the foal's damn teeth out - I'm not proud of that, not one whit - but I kept calm, and asked him for some evidence. He told me he'd broken into the captain's office and found some kind of magic books and scrolls. Not too terribly odd, he always did love to study when he wasn't working, and he's been tutoring Venture as of late. But then he went into some tirade about mind control spells, and Khenal's relationship with the doctor. I'll be honest, it sounded very much like the boy had gone off the deep end, until I heard the next bit. Peytrel told me the royals had always had it out for his family, always causing them trouble. I asked him where he had gotten a notion like that. He told me about his parents' relationship with the royals, particularly his mother. I... won't put those thoughts to paper. Growing up around that, I can almost forgive him for being suspicious of the godkin. I toll Peytrel I had my doubts, but I'd look into it anyways - a lie, I know, but I figured trying to argue with him might make things worse. I think that satisfied the lad, at least enough that he won't do anything rash. But just to be sure, there's something I need to do, and I think I have the perfect excuse to do it.
- - - - - -
Miss Charity,
Recent events have brought to my attention a very serious issue: while Glitterglen is well-secured against outside threats, our internal security is severely lacking. With the formation of the fortress guard, at least part of that has been alleviated. However, there is one point I wish to address. As you are well aware, Efim's murderer was able to procure the materials necessary to construct the murder weapon in secret, among those the copper spear which dealt the killing blow. Deadly weaponry lying about unsecured is a significant potential hazard, either through accident, fit of passion, or malice. To alleviate this, I am proposing that a secure armoury be constructed to house all weapons within the fort, including that of the militia and excepting certain less-lethal weapons in use by the guards, at all times when not in use. Barring exceptional circumstances (impending siege, riot, etc.) all those wishing to make use of said weapons must register in writing precisely what was taken, what time it was taken and subsequently returned, and a sufficiently adequate reason for its use. Understand that I believe firmly in the right of all ponies to keep and bear arms, but under the circumstances I believe that we cannot afford to be more lenient.
Captain Starkey, Militia Captain, Glitterglen Militia
Post by: Khenal on October 20, 2011, 01:47:15 am
What do I do when I can't believe the evidence? There's a surprising amount of room needed to make a trap and link it to a lever even one room away. Among the gears and chains, and in the crawl space, Nicolta Tesla and I found the last pieces of evidence to solve this case: Amber fur, periwinkle and pearl hairs, a russet feather.
Dr. Friesden.
I didn't tell Mr. Tesla the significance of them, but he's a smart pony. He likely knows precisely who bears these colors, and what their presence in the trap means.
But how could it be her? Physically how? She seems so quiet and nice. But the evidence doesn't lie: Dr. Friesden made that trap. Part of me hold out hope that she made it for somepony else and they threatened her if she told anypony, but I seriously doubt that's the case.
I have to arrest her. Ingest Romancerose and Othud Cherishfair help me, I have to arrest her. I'm going to head to Mrs. Charity's rooms to present my findings and see if she can find any fault in them before I go to Dr. Friesden.
******************
Ingest and Othud are our deities of love and charity, respectively.
Post by: Dsarker on October 20, 2011, 01:56:26 am
I can feel something tugging on me, like a puppetmaster on..on strings...I need.. i need help now. I need help i need help need help something's connjrhe euitneuh. Stuehuen qyuens. Duuiįrhłæeę glīēœ fheur jjw eiioo loppp fue kirer ba phn'glui mglw'nafh cthulhu r'lyeh wgah'nahl fhtagn firuhe tzeentch nurgle khorne slaanesh loipuy greuil poesd grhettrolling me. I can't trust anyone. I have to hide only the foals are trustworthy i need them to find whos controlling me somepony of them will know oh ingest above i need help something is grabbing me if you find this help me help me help me help me
Dear new diary
I spoken to the foals he she he said he she he knowed who did it khenal khenal khenal khenal khenal khenal khenal khenal
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 22, 2011, 10:44:48 am
Well, Khenal has finally taken action. This morning, he arrested Friesden, charged her with the murder of Efim, and placed her in one of our cells, to await trial. She has been officially place on leave from her position of Chief Medical Pony. Erok Zephyrcresent our earth pony doctor will be taking over Friesden's duties, though truthfully he is less experienced, I honestly hope Khenal is proven wrong in this, though the evidence is clearly against Friesden. Now I suppose we will have to organize a trial. Hmm. I guess I need to find someone to speak as Friesden's defense, unless she want's to speak for herself. I'll make the appropriate inquires.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Friesden%20in%20her%20cell.png)
Charity's Journal 20th Granite 97
Thundersplinter is moving her carpentry shop into her tower, she's setting up on the third floor just above the fortifications.
28th Granite 97
The Parasprite problem is still extant. Otik, has been using this as training for his marks squad. Says if they can hit a parasprite out of the sky then they can hit a Diomedian between the eyes. True enough but this is taking too long and the area around the outside of the walls is covered with arrows now. I'm asking Starkey's squad to help chase away the filthy creatures.
Starkey's group is practically just running laps out there. Starkey and a few of the others with wings can catch a few of the buggers when they land, but for most of them this is just embarrassing to watch. Turns out it isn't easy to get rid of these things.
1st Slate 97
A single lonely migrant arrived today. Said he was part of a greater party that was ambushed by Diomedians in the jungle. He's the only survivor. He seems to taking it hard. His name Toltot Glimmerfocuses, he's a pegasus and a bit of a Jack of all Trades. He's a Talented carpenter, a Master Mechanic, a competent Record Keeper, an Adequate Engraver, and studies Military Tactics in his free time. Truly an interesting pony. I will have to ask him more about his past, once he feels a little better.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 22, 2011, 11:54:20 am
Hey book.
I'm feeling a little better now. I wanted to go apologies to little Andy, but hes so scared, he just runs away. It's the same for Daringsky too. It's just horrible book! I don't want to be a bad pony! I don't want everypony to be scared of me. I jus-
* The rest of the page is covered in small water stains*
-
Big brother came to visit today.
I hardly ever see him nowadays. Hes always training or on patrol or something. Recently, the guards are all running after these little bug thigs. It's so funny! They all run after it around and around the fort!
I... also saw the black vines again, but big brother was there and he hugged me tight and said everything was going to be all right until they went away. he also said he would make them go away forever soon! His cutiemark looked different for a second when he said it, like it had blood on it. But my big brother is the best, so hes not bad. Not Ever! he said he can help Dr. Friesden too and get rid of the strings! He is the best most brave guard ever!
-
I made a new friend today.
He's like me book, a pony that wants to be good but has a hard time doing it. He's name is Toltot. At first I thought he was a pegasus, but then I followed him to his room. I didn't get to say hello with everypony else. When I got there, I found him trying to glue some feathers from a bag to his wings. Big, scary bat wings! He was a Darkbolt! I got supper scared, but he got down on his knees and said he was supper sorry! He begged and said not to tell everypony. He didn't want to leave just after he got here. He said that he want's to be a good pony like us and he's read an learned everything he could just to fit in and be usefull and stuff.
I know mom and dad said never to trust a domidimi pony, but for some reason, I do! I think he just wants to have friend and not be a monster just like everypony!
Just like me.
------I'm feeling a little better now. I wanted to go apologies to little Andy, but hes so scared, he just runs away. It's the same for Daringsky too. It's just horrible book! I don't want to be a bad pony! I don't want everypony to be scared of me. I jus-
* The rest of the page is covered in small water stains*
-
Big brother came to visit today.
I hardly ever see him nowadays. Hes always training or on patrol or something. Recently, the guards are all running after these little bug thigs. It's so funny! They all run after it around and around the fort!
I... also saw the black vines again, but big brother was there and he hugged me tight and said everything was going to be all right until they went away. he also said he would make them go away forever soon! His cutiemark looked different for a second when he said it, like it had blood on it. But my big brother is the best, so hes not bad. Not Ever! he said he can help Dr. Friesden too and get rid of the strings! He is the best most brave guard ever!
-
I made a new friend today.
He's like me book, a pony that wants to be good but has a hard time doing it. He's name is Toltot. At first I thought he was a pegasus, but then I followed him to his room. I didn't get to say hello with everypony else. When I got there, I found him trying to glue some feathers from a bag to his wings. Big, scary bat wings! He was a Darkbolt! I got supper scared, but he got down on his knees and said he was supper sorry! He begged and said not to tell everypony. He didn't want to leave just after he got here. He said that he want's to be a good pony like us and he's read an learned everything he could just to fit in and be usefull and stuff.
I know mom and dad said never to trust a domidimi pony, but for some reason, I do! I think he just wants to have friend and not be a monster just like everypony!
Just like me.
"Godkin"
That's what every pony called them.
Peytrel muttered it under his breath like a curse. It was a curse a far as he was concerned. That's what his captain had called 'them'. They all thought they were the paragons of truth and harmony thay said they were, but he knew better. He had seen first hoof how 'good' they can be, and now it was happening again. Dr. Friesden was arrested shortly after they talked. He had tolled her how was responible, and now he was going to make all his problems disappear.
Just like they always do.
"Not this time. Not again."
If the captain wasn't going to do anything about this, he wold just have to take maters into his own hooves. It was time to 'AX' Khenal a question or too.
"Hold on Venture, big bro's going to make it right."
Post by: Khenal on October 22, 2011, 03:22:27 pm
Dr. Friesden is now in a cell awaiting her trial. I didn't have the guts to go and arrest her personally, I had a few of the Guard do it. Honestly, I'm not sure I could do it myself. Seeing her in there when I go to the barracks to train tears me up inside.
But I won't give up on her. Like many of the ponies here, she kept a journal. I never could figure out a motive for her to murder Efim, and her journal could be the piece that proves her innocence. After all, it only takes one piece of evidence to show she wasn't involved. However, it could also be the final nail in her coffin. I'll have a few of the Guards search her room for her journal and anything else that could be evidence of either her guilt or innocence.
Chapter 30
I don't think Peytrel likes me. I complimented him on the excellent door his father made for him, and he just looked angry with me. When I tried to ask how Venture was doing, he glared at me so hard I didn't even finish my sentence. I miss Venture, it's been far too long since we've talked. Well, she shouldn't be lonely, at least. There's several foals about GlitterGlen now, I'm sure she's made friends and is just busy playing and enjoying her foalhood.
Chapter 31
There was a new migrant to GlitterGlen today. Yes, just one. He said his group had been attacked and he was the only survivor, but something seems off about him and his story. I can't quite place my hoof on it, and it may just be that I'm thinking too much about Dr. Friesden, but I know he's hiding something. I don't think he means anypony harm, but I've obviously been wrong before.
***********
So, Dsarker, I noticed Dr. Friesden has a new diary. Is the old one lying around somewhere that the Guard could find it?
Post by: Dsarker on October 22, 2011, 04:01:53 pm
Post by: Darkening Kaos on October 22, 2011, 05:52:10 pm
Late Granite;
Finally. This is the first entry in my new diary while I sit in my new workshop in the Air Control Tower. Everything smells so new and fresh, I can't wait to finish ferrying up my tools, blueprints, and personal effects. Have to move my bedroom up here as well, when Charity has time to spare, I will discuss it with her, but for now, have to break in the new workshop by kicking out a few dozen blocks.
Ah, the serenity........
Early Slate;
The brewer kicked me out of the still again, he's getting very precious about that old thing, so plans for the new variant resin recipe have been put on hold until he goes to sleep and I can sneak in and work to my heart's content. Ironya's been a little busy lately so progress has all but stopped from her angle as well. Dr. Friesden's participation has also been curtailed, what with her arrest and all, fortunately I know what her wine is so I'll make sure she is properly taken care of there. Personally, I don't believe that Friesden is such the monster the guards say she is, even Khenal seems half-convinced she is part-diomedian or something horrendous like that - well, I refuse to think that she is capable of such a heinous crime - every time she has instructed or assisted me in distilling the tree resin, she has been pleasant and forth-right, not something one expects from a cold-scaled killer.
Something odd, though. A new pony has been doing odd jobs for me of late and has been taking payment in the form of a failed resin I made some time back, even though it is sticky as pony-snot, it stays soft and flexible - stocks are getting low, it might be prudent to make a few more jars and continue to figure out how to remove the last of the odour, it still smells a bit like a brewery explosion. A big one.
Later;
ThunderSplinter.
{{Edit: spelling}}
Post by: The Master on October 22, 2011, 06:26:42 pm
Post by: Haspen on October 22, 2011, 06:33:06 pm
Entry 1: Acquired this book and feather and some ink when Charity was busy watching Khenal arresting Friesden. I hope that Charity will not mind. I saw she had a cabinet full of them. She will not notice.
Entry 2: We need more weapons. We always need more weapons. I want shiny weapons.
Entry 3: A single migrantpony have arrived. Peculiar. I also have seen the journal of ThunderSplinter by accident when she was at work. How on Equestria others can write so much. My eyes go ouchie when I see so many letters. Why they write so much instead of working.
My eyes are ouchie now too. Time to stop writing and go watch pretty hammer sparkles.
Note to self: Ask somepony about other symbols they use in their journals. Shiny symbols are nice.
Post by: Dsarker on October 22, 2011, 08:28:19 pm
Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal Khenal
Khenal
Khenal Khenal My revenge will be had on you who controlled me. I am free from your will. Forever.
Post by: The Master on October 22, 2011, 08:33:16 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 22, 2011, 11:37:26 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
7th Felsite
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Party%20Time%21.png)
Charity's Journal 12th Felsite 97
One of our threshers has been taken by another unusual mood, she's flying right down to the craftshops, as I wright this. We will keep an eye on her further activities.
Addendum: She has acquired one stack of logs and has started to work on something. She's being oftly secretive about what she's doing in there.
Charity's Journal 13th Felsite 97
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/An%20AMBUSH%21%20Curse%20them%21.png)
A pair of Tentacle ponies a Keshi and two Darkbolts have were spotted across the river. The lead tentapony has a large battle axe, the others are carrying crossbows.
____________________________________________________________________________________
The warning bell sounds from high atop the wooden tower. *Clang Clang Clang* The sounds of shouts can be heard. Parents run and find their children, some sounds of crying babes can be heard over the yelling, scared and unawares of what is going on. The brave Commander takes action. Barking orders to his stallions. "Pull the lever! We can strand the grounded ones on the other side of the river!" Otik get your marksponies to the walls! Everypony else follow me to the courtyard!"
Khenal, hearing the alarm likewise readies his underlings for battle. Stationing them just inside the forts entrance for the unlikely case of Starkey's Stallions falling in battle. They are to be the last line of defense.
Meanwhile the Diomedians entertain themselves by taking potshots at a tied down sentry war dog. Laughing in their own dark way with each shot fired. The dog quickly expires as the metal bolts cut him deeply.
After the dogs unfortunate end. The Diomedians make their way toward the bridge. Which then raises in front of them at the last possible second. Stranding all the wingless ones on the wrong side of the river.
The vile force of darkness waits together on the far side. They may be trapped over there but they're armed with crossbows. But we have them outnumbered. Otik cautiously moves his archers closer, into a position utop a hill on the fortress side of the river.
A cross fire breaks out, missiles of iron, copper, bronze, and bone fly through the air. The first injury. Tecak the markspony, drops to the ground, in extreme pain, as a bronze bolt chips the bone in his rear right leg.
Too many of our ponies went without sufficient ammunition. They are being overwhelmed as the Diomedian bolts fill the air around them. A retreat is sounded, the marksponies retreat to the walls.
Casualties are one dead. Two injured and still being fired upon. In a desperate attempt to save them. Commander Starkey orders the melee squad to the river, and for the bridge to be extended.
Peytrel and efim the axeponies are the first to arrive by the downed pegasi, Osal is gravely injured, lying in a pool of his own blood, arrows protruding from every part of his body. His left wing probably damaged beyond all repair. He lies, unconscious still clutching his legendary bow.
Peytrel jumps in front of Osal, taking two bolts that surely would have ended the pegasi right there. They strike him hard, but his bronze armor holds, though he is bruised and has had the wind knocked from his lungs. efim begins to charge over the bridge into the waiting enemy lines.
Efim strikes the Keshi thrice with his axe and twice with his bare hooves, the final strike, from the shining steel axe, crushes the invaders helmet and gets momentarily stuck in his skull, before being violently ripped free.
Meanwhile Peytrel kills a darkbolt with a single strike to the side of his head. The enemy captain, charges the wounded ponies, across the bridge, but falls prey to a stray cage trap set to trap wild animals, removing him from the fight.
Only two remain, a tentacle pony bleeding from his tentacle, and another Darkbolt archer. The tentacle pony lets loose a laugh, fell and terrible, dodging Peytrel's imprecise and unskilled swings, before lodging two bolts in the young colt. One in his rear right leg and one in his left front. Peytrel drops to the ground unable to fight any longer. Efim distracted by the darkbolt is unable to help, and the rest of the squad is still lagging behind. The Diomedian Tentacle pony, walks up to Peytrel's form and whispers, "You fought like a little filly." before firing a bronze bolt into the young lads chest at point blank range. The bolt cuts through his armor and shatters a left true rib.
The tentacle pony then makes his way across the bridge toward Osal's defenseless body. But then efim finishes the Darkbolt, spilling it's guts and severing it's wings. and charges the tenta on the bridge. With the rushing water underneath the two do battle. The two make a circle around each other, putting efim's back to the fort, and the Diomedian's to the jungle. Suddenly a bolt flies over efim's shoulder. It's captain Otik! The marks squad has returned to defend their fallen fellows! The bolt strikes the Tentacled bastard in his guts, but he merely suffers bruising as the bolt fails to penetrate his armor. Knowing he is defiantly outmatched, the Diomedian turns to run, and despite the best efforts of efim, Otik and Psycho Carrot, he is lost in the thick trees. Now it is time for the ponies to tend to the wounded.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Charity's Jounal
The battle today has taken it's toll on all of us. One dead. Three badly injured, with no guarantee of survival, (plus one war dog but those are expendable). I just finished helping the injured to the hospital, and now I have the unhappy task of telling Peytrel's family about his injuries. They are quite serious, but not nearly as severe as Osal's.
Charity's Journal 20th Felsite 97
During the battle our thresher finished her object. It is a masterful carving depicting the founding of Glitterglen.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Deleth.png)
Post by: Dsarker on October 22, 2011, 11:50:10 pm
I know you're watching me, Khenal, behind my eyes. But I know you're there now. You may have used me before, but never again. I'll die before I do your dirty work for you.
Peytral said he'd visit me, Khenal. Where is he? Have you killed him too?
I know you're there, Khenal, stop hiding from me. You can't get me again. Never. You'll never succeed again. Never again.
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 02:02:17 am
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 03:10:36 am
Ingest above! The other guards found Friesden's journal, and I couldn't believe what it contained! The first entries seemed almost manic, exactly what I would expect from a pony who could murder. But, around the middle, the real Dr. Friesden started poking through. Towards the end, it seemed like two ponies were trying to write in the same space, with sentences mashed together and flowing into each other. I think she's either possessed or somepony, or something, is using long-term mind affecting magics on her. I don't know the specifics of what's wrong with her, but I do know this: She needs help.
And I can't give it to her myself.
The last time I passed her cell, I saw she had scrawled my name all over the walls. I don't think she trusts me to try anything magical to help her. Even if she did, I don't think my magic would be up to the task. I'm pretty good at telekinesis, but I am absolutely lacking when it comes to the more subtle magics. Venture has the talent and ability, but I don't know if she has the skill yet. But I fear she may be the only pony who can save Dr. Friesden.
I'll try to find a way to explain the situation to her parents and get their permission to ask Venture to try to save Dr. Friesden. I'll have to be delicate, I've heard rumors her family doesn't like royal ponies. If Peytrel is any indication, I'll need to choose my words very carefully.
Chapter 33
Debrief first; always debrief first while the details are still fresh. A small squad of Diomedians was spotted on the far side of the river. Commander Starkey ordered the river bridge raised and the markspony squad into position to pick them off before they could harm anypony. I assembled the Guard inside the walls and tried not to think about what it would mean if we saw any action today.
When the sounds of fighting ceased, we were down another brave pony and had three with serious injuries. Including Peytrel. I have to ask his parents about Venture and Dr. Friesden right now. She's the head medical pony for a very good reason, and I fear her replacement may not have the skill to save all three of the injured.
********
I'll post a pic of Psycho Carrot tomorrow, unless The Master beats me to it. Too tired right now to use the pony maker.
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 03:26:37 am
Khenal Godkin, in fealty to the Princesses, our undying ladies, and by the grace of the God Ingest, I call thee diabolis, and in the testimony of thy crimes, I submit this carta. May holy justice account in all balance. The Princesses protect.
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 04:21:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:28:17 am
Post by: thetyler101 on October 23, 2011, 09:27:11 am
Guss what book! I threw a party today!
It was a birthday party for Toltot. We were talking and I told him about the birthday party we had for my friend Andy and he asked me what a birthday was! Can you believe it book? He didn't even know what day he was even born on! I decided that we were going to have a party right then and there! I got up on the table and told everypony there that it was Toltot's birthday today and that we needed to party. He was so nervous, but once it got started he loved it! He said it was the most fun he had ever had. He even said it was his first party ever! We all had a supper fun time!
-It was a birthday party for Toltot. We were talking and I told him about the birthday party we had for my friend Andy and he asked me what a birthday was! Can you believe it book? He didn't even know what day he was even born on! I decided that we were going to have a party right then and there! I got up on the table and told everypony there that it was Toltot's birthday today and that we needed to party. He was so nervous, but once it got started he loved it! He said it was the most fun he had ever had. He even said it was his first party ever! We all had a supper fun time!
Some ponies say that after a battle, that a dark graveyard silence decends over the fields, and that there is not a sound to be heard. At the moment this... was most esuredly not true.
"YOU PIG FOOTED, LOUCHY SODS!"
The leader of the Diomedian attack had stumbled into a cage trap during the battle, and during the tending to the wounded, was forgotten in his cage. With his ax knocked out of his reach and his knife lost in a dice game days ago, he was trapped.
"YOU GLOOBY BOTTLES OF CHEAP, STINKING SEWER BREW!"
Having given up on trying to undo the cage lock himself, he instead decided to pass the time sowing off his mastery of the traditional royal speaking tone.
"COME BACK AND GET SOME IN DA YARBLES! IF YA GOT ANY YARBLES!"
Nopony in the fortress was particularly egar to collect the raging Diomedian. That is, nopony but one.
"COME ON YOU FLUTTERY LUTTERY LITTLE PISS! I'LL ROOKER YA UP ALL KROVVIER! I'LL... what's this? Horrorshow! If it isn't me new chelloveck. Here to get your droog out of this staja? Real dobby!"
The pony before him stood his ground a few feet from the cage, carefully taking the crossbow from his back.
"Sorry droog, got meself a new way now. Don't want to muky-up."
The caged pony was perplexed at this statement, and voiced his concern.
"What ya mean new way? Whats dat on your flappers? Is that flipy-fluff you got sukky on? Have you gone bezoomny? Your mozg fall out your gulliver! What's that pooshka for?"
The free pony for his part seemed to ignore the other as he loaded his crossbow with a salvaged Diomedian bolt.
"Can't have you govoreeting and creeching all me malenky see-me-nots away can I? That would be baddiwad. Very baddiwady."
The bow was raised and aimed towards the imprisoned and soon to be condemned pony.
"Bye-bye me droogy."
The other never got the chance to retort.
He would say it was the one that got away, most likely to get revenge for something or other. Eveypony knew how vile there kind can be. They would believe him, after all Toltot had proven himself the honorable stallion. Why would he lie about this?
-
My big brothers hurt! He's hurt super bad book!
It's so bad, hes all bloody and he wont wake up!
Daddy says the doctor will make him all better but mommy is just crying and... and...
Everything was going so well again. My friends came back and fogave me, we had Toltot's party and...
Why dose the bad stuff alway come when things are just getting good again! It's not fair!! I just-
got to go khenal say i can help!
This is why I love these things man! You never know what will happen! Love it!
Also, I never said the caged domie is dead, I just said that he won't be giving away any info.
Sweet Celestia, I hope Peytrel lives!
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 01:11:49 pm
That could have gone better. Venture's Mother was curled up and crying over the news of Peytrel's injuries and her Father looked ready to physically toss me out of their apartment. Before I could try explaining myself further, Venture came rocketing out of her room talking a mile a minute. I only caught Peytrel's name before the little filly almost dragged me out.
Well, her parents didn't try to stop us, go that's good, right? I explained to Venture that Dr. Friesden seriously needed her help, and that if she helped her, Dr. Friesden would be able to help her brother. We stopped in my office to grab a few of my relevant books, Venture is reading the spells that I think will help, so I'm using this time to write in you, my Book.
Looks like she's about finished and is ready. It's her show now. I hate to put this much pressure on somepony so young, but there is simply no choice. Time to lead her to Dr. Friesden's cell.
**************
As promised, our new pegasus: Psycho Carrot!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Just wanted to say that everyone is an awesome writer, I love this fort!
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 01:38:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 02:05:36 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 02:23:33 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Haspen on October 23, 2011, 03:23:33 pm
Entry 4: Enemies at the gates. Enemies have been repelled. My weapons tasted some blood at last. I am happy, but also sad because of one of the valiant ponies died. I must make sharper weapons. That will make enemies die faster which means less time to hurt my brethren.
Entry 5: While Charity was out of her room to tell ponies' families about injuries I took another bottle of ink from her cabinet. They are so small. Those bottles.
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 03:30:12 pm
I just made my own personal pony! Let's just say she's not the happiest Pegasus.Spoiler (click to show/hide)
That pony looks like it's going to eat someone's face :)
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 03:47:49 pm
she's waiting for someone to post an update :PI just made my own personal pony! Let's just say she's not the happiest Pegasus.Spoiler (click to show/hide)
That pony looks like it's going to eat someone's face :)
No really, she's just EXTREMELY mad that her date hasn't shown up yet.
Picture Pinky Pie explaining what I said and it sounds more accurate.
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 03:51:37 pm
Khenal.
You think I don't know who told Venture to come here? I know it was you. You tried to use her to get INTO MY MIND YOU
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 04:14:57 pm
I've read the writing in Friesden's cell. I have to help her! I MUST!
----------------
"Ummm...Friesden? Are you alright? I won't hurt you..."
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:22:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 04:24:05 pm
"Dr. Friesden? I've read your journal, and I want to help you. Please, talk to me."
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:29:26 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 04:35:11 pm
I turn to face Khenal,
"She just won't listen to reason. I've read her writing as well, and I just can't let her stay in such a state of dismay! I could put on a little air show for her...maybe that would cheer her up? She'd have to leave her cell to see it...What do you think we should do?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:36:31 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 04:37:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 04:39:02 pm
"The writing on the walls is only the tip of the iceberg. Nothing said here leaves this room, I'd rather not have Dr. Friesden's problem spread around."
"I would never do anything to harm you, Friesden. I put you in that cell to protect the ponies of Glitter Glen, and I wish with all that I am that I could let you out, but you're dangerous. Or, one of you is dangerous. I know you have company in your head, but please believe me when I say it's not me. And I want to help you get back to yourself."
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:45:32 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 04:47:44 pm
"I'm starting to think that you're only traumatizing her further. I recommend you leave now. I have to put her out of her misery. Unless you have a better plan...?"
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 04:51:51 pm
"Who said I controlled you?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 04:58:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 05:05:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 05:11:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 05:22:12 pm
"Protocall and jurisdiction."
Sweet Ingest, did that sound as hollow and pathetic as it felt?
"If I could fight all the diomedians myself, I would. If I could have them take me and never bother anypony else, I would. But I can't. You know what those brave ponies go through, you've patched them up before. If you really won't let me help you, let somepony help you. Even if you don't believe me, I really just want you to be well"
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 05:23:56 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 05:26:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 05:53:33 pm
"Khenal, are you in there? It's Starkey. May I come in?"
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 05:55:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 05:58:30 pm
((The crystal ball shows many, many laps around the walls in your future. :P))
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 06:00:23 pm
I tried to meet Friesden's eyes before I hung my head and said softly:
"I'm sorry I've failed you Friesden."
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 06:06:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 06:13:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 06:19:19 pm
"Yes, she's right here. Come on Venture, lets get you back home. I'm sure your parents are worried."
Khenal's Book, Chapter 35
I've failed her. I've failed everypony.
************
And so I bow out of this scene. This was awesome :)
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 06:21:39 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 06:24:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 06:27:59 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 06:31:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 06:33:29 pm
"You'll find them down in the infirmary. The lad Peytrel's awake, and Doctor Erok wants his family there in case... you know..."
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 06:35:18 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 06:39:24 pm
Forgetting my rank, I shout "STARKEY! FETCH PEYTRAL NOW!"
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 06:43:45 pm
Now, I see you've been, ah, interrogating the prisoner. What can you tell me so far?"
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 06:58:44 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 07:08:40 pm
I notice the scrawlings on the walls of Friesden's cell.
"What is all this?"
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 07:12:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 07:13:10 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 07:19:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 07:22:10 pm
"No, I agree that one is plenty enough.
Khenal, Khenal, Khenal... What about Khenal? 'I call thee diabolis?' What did he do, Miss Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 07:31:12 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 07:37:01 pm
Khenal... took control of your mind? How? When? What... What did he make you do?"
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 07:45:35 pm
I say in a hushed tone of voice.
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 07:49:51 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 07:51:49 pm
"NO! OUT OF MY HEEEEEEEEEEEEED!!!!!" Screams Carrot as he begins kicking and thrashing about like a lunatic.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 07:55:09 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 07:56:36 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 08:01:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 08:01:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 08:09:29 pm
I approach Khenal's desk, and begin to rifle through the contents. What do I find?
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 08:10:15 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 23, 2011, 08:15:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 08:22:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 08:24:18 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 08:42:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 08:58:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 09:07:19 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 09:12:18 pm
"Sir. I need to borrow your sword. Now, sir."
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 09:20:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 09:22:00 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 09:23:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 09:25:44 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 09:32:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 23, 2011, 09:34:02 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 09:35:14 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 09:54:35 pm
I draw my axe from my belt.
"You want my weapon? Come take it."
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 09:56:41 pm
"GIVE ME THE AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-"
Post by: thetyler101 on October 23, 2011, 10:04:39 pm
"Got ya!"
----
Sweet lord I look away for an hour or two...
edit: you see, confusing!
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 10:06:43 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 10:21:17 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 23, 2011, 11:09:11 pm
Post by: The Master on October 23, 2011, 11:49:13 pm
((Well, time to go to bed. TUNE IN NEXT TIME FOR ANOTHER EXCITING EPISODE OF...Glitterglen: General Hospital!))
Post by: Impending Doom on October 24, 2011, 12:03:17 am
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 24, 2011, 01:02:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 02:00:49 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 02:10:20 am
Charity makes her way down the stairs into the guard's floor. She looks out at the scene before her. Commander Starkey standing with his ax in hand, and Sargent Carrot unconscious on the ground. She gasps.
"Commander! What is going on here! I was coming to talk with Khenal and I heard all this yelling! EXPLAIN!"
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 02:23:04 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 02:37:15 am
"Commander" emphasis is placed upon the title, "I don't know why you knocked out the Sargent, but I trust you can explain it later. Take him to the infirmary, and restrain him in a traction bench if you think he's dangerous."
(Since Impending Doom said he was going to sleep for the night I will momentarily assume he does this.)
Charity walks up to the cell, and says in the most soothing voice she can.
"Freisden, what is with all this writing? Why have you defaced all of Theropod's artwork? And why do you think Khenal is responsible for any of this."
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 03:14:53 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 03:29:13 am
"Peytral?!" Charity files that particular claim in the back of her mind to investigate later.
"Listen Friesden. I came down here to talk with Khenal because one of the guard told me that they had found your diary, and that in it you were fighting with, presumably yourself. Now I haven't read it myself yet, but if what they told me is true, and from the state of your cell. I can tell one thing. Friesden, you are very sick. And my dear friend, it pains me to say this, but you may be beyond our ability to help. Khenal, is a trustworthy pony, and I trust him with my life, I can't believe he would do this, to you or any pony."
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 04:09:49 am
"You -accuse- me of LYING? How DARE YOU! I know Khenal has done this!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 04:34:21 am
*Charity tears up a little.*
"I'm sorry Friesden I promise I'll make up my mind about what to do with you soon. I'm sorry." Chairty walks away from the cell toward the stairs. A tear makes it's way down her face.
"I have to hear out Peytral, and I need to hear Khenal address these claims about him" thinks the beige unicorn. "Then...Then I can pass sentence on her."
(I should probably note that Freiden and Charity are listed as friends on the relationship chart in game, and I'm counting that for Charity's actions)
(I think I'll end our dialoge here Dsarker, unless you want to shout anything at her as she makes for the stairs)
*After heading out she will summon Khenal, and Venture [someone connected to both Khenal and Peytral] to meet her with Peytral [who is still in the hospital] to hear what evidence Peytral has, let Khenal make his defense, and undoubtedly allow for Venture to either defend or condemn Khenal.*
Also, I guess Starkey will be within ear shot from taking the Sargent up to the doctors, if he wants to drop any info Charity's way about Peytral's parental situation and opinion of the Godkin. Completely up to you Impending Doom.
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 02:00:40 pm
"Hello Charity, anything I can help you with?"
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 03:06:14 pm
"What...what happened? Why am I restrained...?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 06:46:27 pm
"Khenal, is Venture inside?" Without waiting for the answer she says, "Please, follow me." and she walks into Peytral's room.
She approaches the parents and kindly explains, "We are sorry for the intrusion, however, I've been told your son knows something about the murder, you are welcome to stay, while I ask him a few questions." Chairty approaches Peytrals bed and sits next to it.
"hey kid, I'm sorry that this had to happen, but I need to ask you a few questions. Freisden said you told her that Khenal was mind controlling her. Did you tell her that? And If so, what evidence do you have, of this?"
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 07:00:38 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 07:04:10 pm
"Heck if I know why your here Carrot, I thought you were fine after the fight."
Chairty enters, taking a seat next to his bed, explaining her visit.
"Ya, ya I said it, and keep it down too I don't want to wake them up right now. Hey, hows Oslo?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 07:10:27 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 07:32:03 pm
Peytral looks over to Skydaring, a sad look on his face.
"We should take them out. They shouldn't be here for this."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 07:35:33 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 08:02:51 pm
"All right, lets get this over with."
Peytral stares daggers at Khenal on the other end of the room.
"Tell me, cap-i-tan, why do you think I said what I said."
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 08:13:48 pm
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:14:08 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 08:17:59 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 08:19:44 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 08:23:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 08:24:03 pm
I found a scalpel in my cell today. Somepony had attached a tag to it, too: Honour.
Never.
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:24:18 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 08:28:08 pm
The Doctor arrives, and attempts to do this.
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:29:30 pm
All of a sudden, he asks in a calmer voice,
"Ugh...can I have an axe now?"
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 08:32:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 08:36:27 pm
Sorry I can't write longer, Diary. It's too hard.
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:38:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 08:42:18 pm
Is Friesden as crazy as she seems?
Is she actually controlled by Khenal? By the black vines?
Or is she as sane as can be and is merely manipulating everyone into thinking she's insane, that Khenal is controlling her?))
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:45:02 pm
((I'm not entirely sure what the real situation is anymore.((I'd like to think that she really is controlling you, but someone else stone khenal's mental magic book and is using it on me. Psycho would have no way of knowing this, thus he assumes it's khenal's fault.))
Is Friesden as crazy as she seems?
Is she actually controlled by Khenal? By the black vines?
Or is she as sane as can be and is merely manipulating everyone into thinking she's insane, that Khenal is controlling her?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 08:46:07 pm
Charity searches her mind for every bit of magic knowledge she has and finds nothing to help her.
"Captain Khenal! What is going on! What sort of magic is this?"
(I don't know what's actually going on anymore. I thought that Friesden was just schizophrenic, but now I don't know. Is Venture behind all of this? But Friesden was crazy before Venture arrived? Is the filly just making it worse? Is she doing it on purpose? Why? she likes Khenal.)
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:51:41 pm
All of a sudden, my eyes shift slightly closer their the original color
"Grah, make it stop! Somepony help! Somepony is controlling me! I can't resist it...much longer!"
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 08:54:39 pm
"There are only a few things that could do this to a pony, and they are all absolutely evil. I think it can be fixed, but it will take time for me."
I turn to Charity
"How skilled are you in magic?"
*************
Well, it'd take a truly Machiavellian character to write like a crazy person in their personal journal on the off chance somebody would read it.
Edit: Inspiration has struck!
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 08:58:27 pm
"I'LL KILL YOU ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Both of my eyes begin to turn a demonic red and my body begins to twitch and convulse.
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 08:58:49 pm
Friesden's New Journal.
I haven't written in you before because they took away my ink.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 08:59:59 pm
Her horn glows with her magic. A faint shield begins to form around Carrot, but it fades as quickly as it appears. Charity won't be nearly magical enough to help anyone alone.
Ninjaed.
"I'll do my best, but magic was never my best subject. It appears to be some sort of mind controlling spell. I can try to help you dispel or counter it."
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 09:02:08 pm
"HAHAHAHAhaha Oohh ha ha aha ha, Ow my sides! Too good! Just too good! This is just to GOOD!"
In his left claw and right foot were what to a mortal would look like marionette doll strings, attached as it were to Dr. Friesden and Carrot respectively.
"O goodness, this is the most fun I've had in ages!"
Seemingly form thin air, a small royal filly apered, white coated and a pink mane blowing in a perpetual unseen wind.
"Discord! Leave my ponies alone you big jerk!"
"Or what!"
"Or... or..."
"Yes, thats what I thought. Now run along and let a real god have his fun before I have-"
"I'm telling my Daddy on you!"
Few thing can frighten a god. Some would say nothing can, after all, gods cannot be hurt or die. That said, the look of absolute terror on Discord's face while the little filly ran off was out of the ordinary. Given who Celestia's father was, it is not however unexpected.
"No no no no no STOP!"
Discord hurriedly cuts the stings to his little game, sending the two ponies plummeting into sanity once again.
"Stop! Waite! I'll give you Cotton-candy clouds! You like those right? STOP!"
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 09:02:54 pm
Hmmm. It appears to cause less pain when I pick at a more recent cut.
((And it's Draconequus))
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 09:08:21 pm
"I feel horrible...horrible...I'm a monster...kill me!"
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 09:09:31 pm
I notice Carrot starting to shred the mundane bindings.
"On second thought, keep him restrained! This is a possession that we cannot afford to allow to run loose! Never again!"
With that, my horn glows brighter than before, becoming uncomfortable to look at directly.
"You will not have this one, Discord!"
And suddenly the presence was gone. My horn dims as I let my magic slowly bleed away.
"That...was odd"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 09:10:44 pm
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 09:12:36 pm
"KILL ME BEFORE I KILL YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 09:14:54 pm
I cut off in mid-sentence. Friesden! Nopony was watching her, and she's almost certainly under the same posession!
"Friesden! I have to check on her!"
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 09:18:36 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 09:19:57 pm
Now that Carrot is seemingly unpossessed. Dr. Erok, will offer him something to calm him and help him sleep.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 09:21:47 pm
"What just happened?"
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 09:23:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 09:27:47 pm
Wings don't seem to bleed very much, but they don't cause much pain either.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 09:28:32 pm
------------------------
We need to lock this up, this is an RP cluster fuck.
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 09:31:56 pm
There are three types of wounds. Wounds, damned wounds, and suicides. The third sounds good.
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 09:33:43 pm
I burst into the prison block and dash for Friesden's cell.
"Friesden! Are you alright?"
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 09:36:50 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 09:56:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 09:57:50 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 10:01:16 pm
"Venture? When did you get here?" A confused Charity mumbles trying to make sense of this all this chaos and discord.
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 10:13:52 pm
"I'm sorry Friesden." was all the warning she got as I magicked her unconscious.
"I guess mental magic really isn't past my skills after all. Time to get you to the hospital, before you bleed out."
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 10:16:50 pm
Psycho, being traumatized of needles, begins to try to break free, and because the unholy strength is still in his body, he is succeeding so far.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 10:19:03 pm
Patryle looks over to a very confused looking Venture.
"I think you should head home sis, again, I guess... the hell? Whatever! It's past your bedtime."
"O-OK brother."
Alright get going, and Ms. Charity, please just jab carrot! It's hard engulf to sleep with the pain without him screeching his head off... more than usual."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 10:23:26 pm
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 10:25:07 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 24, 2011, 10:27:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 10:47:51 pm
Maybe I haven't failed them, after all. At least not permanently. I should get the details for what happened today down, it was very busy.
I had sent Venture in to try to help Friesden alone. I heard yelling and ran in to see Sergent Carrot also trying to talk to Friesden, trying to calm her down. Friesden would have nothing to do with me, I appeared to only be making the situation worse. Commander Starkey knocked on the door and asked for Venture. I told him she was here and I'd lead her to her parents. They were apparently in the hospital where Peytrel had just regained conciousness. I left, feeling like an utter failure.
I wrote the last chapter in you, my Book, while waiting outside of Peytrel's room. I felt I should apologize to her parents for taking off with Venture so suddenly. Mrs. Charity appeared and told me to follow her into Peytrel's room. I didn't really hear what Charity and Peytrel were talking about, I was feeling too morose. I only came to my senses when Carrot started yelling from the next bed, which he had apparently been strapped to. I hadn't even noticed him being brought in. And then I saw his Red Eyes.
Something absolutely malevolent was trying to take over Sergent Carrot! This is where the details get really fuzzy, my Book. I remember trying to do something with my magic, and saying something, but it's all a blur. I remember seeing Friesden in her cell, bleeding all over, and then I remember handing her to Dr. Erok.
Charity asked me for details, and I can't remember what I said to her. It apparently satisfied her, she didn't call me a liar or accuse me of using magic on her at least.
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 10:50:07 pm
No...no mercy. Weak... They were all weak. Cattle... Cattle to the slaughter.
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 10:53:33 pm
Last written message in Friesden's new diary((CLEVER, THOSE ARE QUOTES FROM NIHILANTH IN HALF LIFE!))
No...no mercy. Weak... They were all weak. Cattle... Cattle to the slaughter.
Post by: Dsarker on October 24, 2011, 10:55:11 pm
Last written message in Friesden's new diary((CLEVER, THOSE ARE QUOTES FROM NIHILANTH IN HALF LIFE!))
No...no mercy. Weak... They were all weak. Cattle... Cattle to the slaughter.
((Huh. Maybe I should try and find a copy of that at some point. Maybe playing it might make the second make a bit more sense.)
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 11:13:39 pm
Today, was, unusual to say the least. It started with a member of the guard knocking on my office door. He told me that Ms. Friesden's Diary had been found, and that it showed a disturbed mind tearing itself apart, and that in it she states that she committed the murder. I went to the prison block to confirm this with Khenal, and then to likely have to banish Friesden, into either the caverns or the jungle.
However, that's when everything went to hell. First, on the way down I heard screaming from the cell block. I galloped down and saw Starkey standing over the unconscious body of Sargent Carrot. I later found out that Carrot had gone berserk and Starkey had restrained him. The commander took him to the doctors and restrained him. I talked with my friend Friesden and it was clear to me that she was unhinged. She's been writing all over her walls like a deranged animal. She said that Khenal had been controlling her and that Peytral had told her so. I gathered, Khenal and Peytral and tried to talk to them about these claims.
But then Carrot awoke with fire in his eyes like a pony possessed by the darkest powers. Khenal restrained him and then he and I were about to try and exorcise this influence from the Sargent. But before we could start his eyes and voice returned to normal. The Sargent then seemed to remember what he'd been trying to do, he was terrified and angry and begging to die. Dr. Erok and I subdued the Sargent and sedated him. He's still asleep last I knew.
Khenal ran off to Friesden's side. Peytral asked to talk more tomorrow, as he needed to rest.
Khenal was found carrying Friesden's unmoving and bleeding body to the hostpital. She had tried to commit suicide, with a scalple she had found. Her cell was searched, and the offending scalple removed, a tag tied to it had the word "Honor" written on it, barely readable under the blood. A gift? From who?
At this point I was ready to retire and run home to the waiting hooves of Cryptson and Adamant and Cobalt, but that was not to be. Turns out while this craziness was going on the whole fort was suffering. I have fort full of scared ponies demanding explanations, for everything from floating things, statues turning back to uncut stone. tower turning pink and then back to normal, vegetables sprouting faces and laughing at the cooks, a flying pink earth pony in the dinning area with spinning eyes, and a thousand other nonsensical things. I spent hours running damage control and trying to keep the calm. Gods save us were doing more to tear ourselves apart then the damnable Diomedians could ever hope to do.
But everything seems calm now. Seems we can get back to business as usual.
And now that I've recorded everything, Cryptson and I can finally retire to our bed. The waterfall he made for us is so comforting.
(Well that was interesting.)
Post by: The Master on October 24, 2011, 11:21:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 24, 2011, 11:51:17 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 24, 2011, 11:54:04 pm
Charity's Journal 28th Felsite 97
Summer is officially begun now. Hard to tell the difference, it's always hot and humid in the Failed Jungles. Fortunately nothing unusual has happened since the 20th. Friesden has recovered from her attempted suicide. Her wounds looked worse than they are.
Cryptson's acting depressed and is spending all his time with Grifen digging out more and more underground tree farm space, but it isn't unusual for him to throw himself into his work when somethings bothering him.
Report on injured ponies. Peytral isn't looking good. He's become infected, in all of his wounds, and was to feverish to talk to me when I last visited him. Venture and DaringSky are spending all their time with him. I hope the kid pulls through. He was always such a good boy. Even if I think he's wrong about Khenal.
Tecak's injuries are least sever. He's going to be released as soon as his cast is applied.
Osal, isn't looking good though. His wounds are extensive, he'll be down for months even if he does recover, and with two broken wings, one of which is developing an infection. He might not ever fly again.
Doctor Erok and Doctor Alen are doing their best.
Pycho Carrot was released from the hospital today and reported to Captain Otik for training, as he seems to have calmed down enough. Although Starkey had him flying laps instead of the archery practice Otik had planned, something about a peasant remark.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 25, 2011, 12:24:03 am
Cryptson and mine's tomb was finished this afternoon. It is beautiful. Carved into a layer of solid marble. In the center two gem studded clear glass coffins for him and myself. Surrounded by statues, of the founding of Glitterglen, of the gods, and of many heroes, both of legend, and of Glitterglen herself.
10th Hematite 97
Snatcher! Protect the Children! That was the cry that interrupted an otherwise peaceful morning. An earth pony mechanic had bumped into a keshi, while strolling on the surface. Both ran in opposite directions, the airborne squad flew out, but promptly lost him in the jungle.
19th Hematite 97
The position of mayor came up for reelection. Since I've had so much free time since I was made Baroness, I ran for the office this year, and I won! I think the damage control I had to do during the events of the 20th of Felsite helped in that.
25th Hematite 97
Peytral has been released. His wounds have been sutured, his bones set, and splints applied. The doctors have done all they can for him, now his body just has to fight off that infection on it's own. First thing he did when he was released was get right back to work. He's one tough pony.
(And I think I'm done for now. Will continue tomorrow.)
Post by: thetyler101 on October 25, 2011, 01:40:24 pm
"Come on! I'll let you try it for a wile! Cotton-candy clouds! With chocolate rain! Pleas don't tell him!"
"DADDYYYY!!!"
A clash of thunder, louder than any mortal could comprehend sounded throughout the infinity plane. On the horizon, a titanic visage appeared. A Metal giant apron a throne carved of raw Admantium. At its feet, a mountain of demonic sculls, some as large as a house, his defeated foes. His voice was the singing of angles, the screaming of daemons, the pounding of hammers on the anvil of creation, for he was the great one. The God of gods, ARMOK the blood god.
"WHAT TROUBLES YOU MY DAUGHTER."
"Discord is being mean to my worshipers again!"
"IS THAT SO..."
Discord was known for two things, his trickery and love for chaos. A lesser known aspect was his silver tongue. He's voice has tempted mortals across the multiverse. He could turn brave heroes into cowards and convince lepers they were the pinnacle of beauty, and have whole worlds agree with them. In his mind, he had already come up with a thousand and one ways to defend himself, weaving word and verse into an impenetrable shield of twisted logic. What came out of his mouth was this:
"See-I-But-well-I-Umm-but-no-see-it-she-me-umm... yes."
Armok droped the hammer, literally. A hammer the size the empire state building, made of solid admantium metal, covered in refineries that would send a lesser creature mad in it's divine beauty. Discord was annihilated to the subatomic level, the very neutrons of his body shattered under the blow. A slap on the wrist by god standards, but a good thump would teach him his lesson.
"Serves you right you big bully. Well, I guss I should goapologize for his actions. Better do it in person and-"
"CELESTIA... WE HAVE BEEN OVER THIS WITH YOU AND YOUR SISTER. THAT IS NOT THE WAY OF THE GODS."
"But father! If you would just let me try, I know I could-"
"CELESTIA I WILL NOT ARGUE ABOUT THIS!"
Celestia hangs her defeat and walks out. "Yes, father."
On the shoulder of the giant metal god, a small horse mare appears in a shower of light. She is Faust, a minor god of a small human nation in some no name universe, and the wife of Armok. The story of there courtship is as varied as the voices that tell it, but the theme is always the same. Love always finds a way.
"Love, you are too hard on them, you can show compassion once in a wile you know."
"I MUST BE FIRM WITH THEM IF THEY ARE TOO LEARN MY WIFE. YOU WILL SEE, THIS 'PARADISE' THING IS JUST A PHASE. IN TIME, THEY WILL BOTH BE THE PROPER DEITIES THEY SHOULD BE."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 26, 2011, 03:27:28 am
Memo to all citizens
From the Desk of Charity Conventtulip, Baroness of the Failed Jungles, Mayor of Glitterglen, Chief record keeper of Glitterglen, and Royally Appointed Overseer of The Vermin of Twilight.
Under recommendation from Commander Starkey, effective immediately, the new armories are to be in use. All weapons, (save ammunition which will continue to be stored near the archery ranges) shall be kept behind locked doors. The keys to which are held by Ironya, our weapon-smith, and each militia captain, along with the captain of the guard, and, Stelmith Kebulam (our gem setter has access to the masterwork weapons' storeroom for the purpose of her artwork). Anyone needing access to either armory must get permission from either Commander Starkey, Captain Otik, or Guard Captain Khenal, and sign out, what was taken/stored, with our Bookkeeper, Charity Conventtulip. Note, that this does not change the militia and guard's policies of remaining armed at all times in case of emergency.
Failure to comply will be considered a criminal offense punishable by no less than 3 months imprisonment.
Chairty's Journal 21st Malachite 97
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Ironya%27s%20third%20baby.png)
That's her third child, she and Firelordsky have been really busy. Guess it's understandable, with our shortage of metal she winds up with nothing to do most days, short of the occasional spear sharpening (Pun mostly unintended). This one's a little earthpony, just like his dad. Name is Vathem.
24th Malachite 97
Osal was released from the hospital today. It's very fortunate that he has recovered enough to walk around. I will admit though, with the wound dressings on all four legs and both wings, along with wooden splints on each. It's kind of funny to watch him hobble around. It's not nice, I shouldn't laugh, but well, it just looks so damn ridiculous. If I were him, I'd take a few more weeks of bed rest and not have to look like a fool.
25th Malachite 97
A pair of ponies has arrived at our gates. A unicorn mare hammerer (she is excited about joining the guard) and her daughter another unicorn along with her, the foal is just about a year old. No father is with them however.
4th Galena 97
My third child was born this morning. A little unicorn filly. She's got her mother's looks. I'm going to name her Belle.
Charity's Journal 13th Galena 97
A caravan from the Zebra civilization of the Triangular Shell has been spotted in the jungle. I hope they brought Iron. Adamant's hoping they brought a storyteller, as he isn't really old enough to remember the last time, he was less than a year old then, but Venture's been telling him about them and their illusion magics, and he can't wait to see them. I loved those old pony tales when I was little, I might sneak down and hear a few stories with the kids if I have time.
20th Galena 97
I had a brief conversation with the Zebra Diplomat. It would have been a pleasant chat had she not started it with what I'm pretty sure was an insult.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/INSULT%21.png)
I Am Not a Dwarf!
28th Galena 97
Fortunately our little misunderstanding, did not effect Bokbon's ability to negotiate a good deal for a lot of metal, raw gems, exotic foods, leather, and cloth.
Additionally, according to my calender, an import from the capital, today is the first day of Autum. Hopefully as "Winter" approaches the heat will die down a little.
Post by: Dsarker on October 26, 2011, 03:35:16 am
Failed.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 26, 2011, 06:00:41 am
No comment.
What an AWESOME story!
Could you dorf me as a doctor?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 26, 2011, 06:14:06 am
I...I...
No comment.
What an AWESOME story!
Could you dorf me as a doctor?
Glad you have enjoyed reading it so far. Yeah, I'll pony you as one of our two, not yet imprisoned doctors.
We have Doctor Erok, a male earthpony, who is our current chief medical pony, (He does the diagnosing and wound dressing, and surgery although Friesden is slightly better at that then him.) he has no other jobs so if no one is hurt he's always available to bring somepony water) and we have a female unicorn nurse, (she does the bone setting, and unless Friesden is released do to plot related things. The suturing) she is also a legendary engraver when no one needs medical attention, she's the one I called Doctor Alen in an earlier post.
Which pony would you like, and what name would you like? Just your user name, minus the numbers of course, or something else?
Edit: Or if you prefer, and I realize it would be a little unorthodox. You could take one pony and claim them without changing the name, as they have both been talked about before, and neither have particularly difficult or unusual names. Your call, I don't want you to think I'm pushing that decision.
Post by: Dsarker on October 26, 2011, 06:22:06 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 26, 2011, 06:30:59 am
Is Friesden still in the cell?
Uh, yeah, been using a burrow, along with assigning her a dinning room and bedroom inside it to keep her there, has worked well so far.
While one could argue that since she seems to no longer be possessed we should let her out, and I'll entertain that idea, I haven't done so yet, because the character's don't know that Discord "cut the strings" so I hadn't released her yet.
Additionally, she tried to kill herself, got to protect her from herself after all.
Although, if Khenal, or someone else (not Sargent Psycho Carrot, but someone sane, sorry The Master, no offense) comes to Charity and says they think it's safe to let her out, she would go along with it, if only to get Friesden back in the game in a less confining way.
Post by: Dsarker on October 26, 2011, 06:39:23 am
Friesden's new journal.
Justice.
Let this be the implement of release.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 26, 2011, 10:09:47 am
Yeah, my name really wouldn't fit in.
Could you take the Chief Medical
Oh, btw, can you give me some tips on running a Pony Fortress? I always manage to screw up in the first or second year, REALLY taking away that feeling that i'm good at DF.
Post by: Haspen on October 26, 2011, 11:41:57 am
Entry 6: I have three children now. I called my newborn son Vathem, but I wonder if I shouldn't rename him in tribute to one of our militia ponies. Hmm, I would have to ask my husband first. Last time I spoke with him, he wasn't very fond of all the madness surrounding Friesden, Khenal and others. Maybe he just longs for peaceful, obscure earthpony village like the one in which he grew up.
Post by: thetyler101 on October 26, 2011, 12:34:00 pm
Hey book.
I couldn't help Dr. Friesden. Those strings were too strong. Way too strong. Like, the spell Khenal showed me wouldn't work. I couldn't do a thing and everypony started yelling and, they sent me away.
I got to see my brother though! He was still hurt, but he was OK! And he's a real hero! I ran back to my room to get some party stuff like confetti and some cloth streamers and stuff from Toltot's birthday. I guess I was super tired, cuss I fell asleep, and mommy took me home. I woke up in the hospital again though. I don't know why.
-
My Brother is feeling super sick now book.
The doctor said he has an infection and a fever. I don't know what an infection is, but I had a fever once, and it was terrible, and his is even worse. Me and Sky are right here though, so nothing bad happens! Were helping Doctor Alen get water and help wash his wounds and stuff. It's really bad doing that cause it hurts him. Hes always mumbling crazy stuff, and sometimes scary stuff too. I tried to tell him that I know Khenal didn't do anything bad, but I don't know if he can even hear me. Mr. Osal is even worse too.
Mabby I can prey to the sisters to help them, but you have to sacrifice something to ask a god to do something. I don't have anything that a god would like. Please be OK brother.
-
Big Bros OK!! Hes up and walking and everything! YAY! I knew preying to the sisters without something to give would still work. Those royal ponies back home were stupid. I bet celestia and luna never even get that stuff.
Big bro listened to me about Khenal. I'm not sure he bevels me for some weird reason, but he said he would talk to Ms. Charity.
O, Ms. Charity is the mayor now too! I'm not surprised, she can be bossy and a grump sometimes, but she runs our fort better than any-pony could.
-
There are a lot of other fillies in the fort nowadays. Even more than before too. Ms. Ionya Had another filly, and there was that big tough looking mare with the unicorn filly. She's fun to play tag with! Also, Ms. Charity has another on the way my mom says.
I wan't to go see Dr. Friesden and try again, but nopony will let me! I know I could fix her if I try again! I bet that would get rid if the chains on Khenal too!
-
A caravan of zebras came today. DaringSky was off like an arrow when he heard, chanting 'story teller! story teller!' the whole time! He loves listening to stories about other places, especially the ones about heroes and adventurers. I tell him stories about Greywings and the stuff he did, like how he saved me, and helped the other ghosts and battled the huge cave worm. Ya, I made some stuff up. Mom's worried that he might run of and be an adventurer some day, but he's too smart to do something like that!
Also, I've been helping Toltot fit in! He had really bad manners and stuff, but I teach him how to be a good pony. He calls be his 'itsy droogy'. he has all sorts of funny words, me and my friends like to use them a lot! It's fun and the adults can't tell what we say! Viddy you marrow book!
I couldn't help Dr. Friesden. Those strings were too strong. Way too strong. Like, the spell Khenal showed me wouldn't work. I couldn't do a thing and everypony started yelling and, they sent me away.
I got to see my brother though! He was still hurt, but he was OK! And he's a real hero! I ran back to my room to get some party stuff like confetti and some cloth streamers and stuff from Toltot's birthday. I guess I was super tired, cuss I fell asleep, and mommy took me home. I woke up in the hospital again though. I don't know why.
-
My Brother is feeling super sick now book.
The doctor said he has an infection and a fever. I don't know what an infection is, but I had a fever once, and it was terrible, and his is even worse. Me and Sky are right here though, so nothing bad happens! Were helping Doctor Alen get water and help wash his wounds and stuff. It's really bad doing that cause it hurts him. Hes always mumbling crazy stuff, and sometimes scary stuff too. I tried to tell him that I know Khenal didn't do anything bad, but I don't know if he can even hear me. Mr. Osal is even worse too.
Mabby I can prey to the sisters to help them, but you have to sacrifice something to ask a god to do something. I don't have anything that a god would like. Please be OK brother.
-
Big Bros OK!! Hes up and walking and everything! YAY! I knew preying to the sisters without something to give would still work. Those royal ponies back home were stupid. I bet celestia and luna never even get that stuff.
Big bro listened to me about Khenal. I'm not sure he bevels me for some weird reason, but he said he would talk to Ms. Charity.
O, Ms. Charity is the mayor now too! I'm not surprised, she can be bossy and a grump sometimes, but she runs our fort better than any-pony could.
-
There are a lot of other fillies in the fort nowadays. Even more than before too. Ms. Ionya Had another filly, and there was that big tough looking mare with the unicorn filly. She's fun to play tag with! Also, Ms. Charity has another on the way my mom says.
I wan't to go see Dr. Friesden and try again, but nopony will let me! I know I could fix her if I try again! I bet that would get rid if the chains on Khenal too!
-
A caravan of zebras came today. DaringSky was off like an arrow when he heard, chanting 'story teller! story teller!' the whole time! He loves listening to stories about other places, especially the ones about heroes and adventurers. I tell him stories about Greywings and the stuff he did, like how he saved me, and helped the other ghosts and battled the huge cave worm. Ya, I made some stuff up. Mom's worried that he might run of and be an adventurer some day, but he's too smart to do something like that!
Also, I've been helping Toltot fit in! He had really bad manners and stuff, but I teach him how to be a good pony. He calls be his 'itsy droogy'. he has all sorts of funny words, me and my friends like to use them a lot! It's fun and the adults can't tell what we say! Viddy you marrow book!
Post by: Khenal on October 26, 2011, 01:51:49 pm
Things have started to settle down, but are hardly back to normal yet. I've been trying to talk to Friesden, but she's mostly unresponsive to me. I don't know if she's still under that possession or just really depressed. I just keep telling her I'm here if she needs me. She has the occasional visitor, but for the most part it's just her and her cell walls. I think now, more than ever, she needs a friend.
Chapter 38
Zebra caravan, a favorite of the foals here. The rhyming speech of the zebras make them excellent storytellers, and our merchants love their exotic goods. They also know a lot about magic. I've exhausted my supply of magic tomes and bought more from the zebras, though the book seller gave me a weird look and a cryptic remark. "Nopony can escape their past, a lesson you should learn fast." At least I got a good deal on the books.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 26, 2011, 09:27:16 pm
I suppose i should keep one of these things, everypony in this fort also has one.
We released Osul and Peytral today, although both still don't look too good. I was hoping that Doctor Freisden could help, but she's still locked up. Nopony seems to think she's sane. I certainly do, though.
Maybe i should tell Ms. Charity.
I'm really worried about Carrot, he seems to have gone back to normal but that mind control thing someone did on him was REALLY creepy.
Signing off for now,
Bubbles
Post by: The Master on October 26, 2011, 09:39:33 pm
My mind is clear,
The strings have snapped,
I know not what will come for us,
I have seen death,
I have shed blood,
The earth cries out in it's mournful cry,
I feel so weak,
I know who to blame,
The evil tempter will surly die.
----------------------
Imagine this being read in a slow, mournful voice. It's up to you to decide who i'm referring to as the "tempter".
Post by: Dsarker on October 26, 2011, 10:39:22 pm
It has become a bit harder to end this than I had thought it would be.
I keep passing out before it is done.
Honour.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 26, 2011, 11:07:06 pm
Carrot seems to be writing in his journal. I hope he's alright. I think i should read it to be sure what his problem is.
Bubbles
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC: Would you let me read your journal The Master?
Post by: Khenal on October 26, 2011, 11:26:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 26, 2011, 11:29:09 pm
She has some more...ink... now :P
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 26, 2011, 11:36:42 pm
Not Good
I hope Bubbles can patch Freisden up.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 12:09:43 am
I was reviewing the evidence against Friesden today, my book, when I came across the scalpel that she tried to kill herself with. It had a note attached with a single word on it: Honor. Where did she get this? More importantly, who gave it to her? Disturbingly, it looks like somepony hoped to get her to kill herself.
She got a new journal form somewhere, and I think she's writing in it in blood; she has several wounds that maintain fresh scabs. I need to do something to help her, to let her know that her life is worth living.
Hmm, if a single word can break her, can another word build her back up? I'm going to try something very risky, my Book. I'll need to be careful and absolutely sure it doesn't look like it's from me. I'm going to sneak a charcoal stick into her cell so she can write without picking her wounds, and it's going to have it's own note and word: Hope.
***************
Welcome to Glitter Glen Ansontan!
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 01:24:44 am
I think this is the last time. I'm ready.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 02:04:54 am
Dear Diary, Entry 3
Khenal seems to be planning something to do with Friesden. Maybe i can help him.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 27, 2011, 06:55:55 am
Doctor Erok, or as everypony has taken to calling him Doctor Bubbles (I'm not sure how he got that nickname). Has brought forth a request for a new water source. It seems that all the water the well brings up is laced with mud, he believes that to be the cause of Peytral and Osal's infections. It seems the easiest way to deal with this is to create a well near the top of our current aqueduct that brings water to the dinning hall. But that would mean a much longer walk for the doctors. I think the best way will be to create a reservoir closer to the hospital.
Charity's Journal 28th Limestone 97
An accident occurred during the digging out of the new hospital well. One was killed Enog Govosmesir, a pegasan farmer and father of one of our finest marks ponies. Additionally, Toltot, our pegasn mechanic was seen to be caught in the collapse, but, according to eye witness testimony, fell down as the floor collapsed through the stone floor for 3 floors depositing him in Khenal's office, and knocking over one of Pillomino's statues. Unconscious but unharmed. He woke up under Khenal's statue of me and he was able to get up and get back to work before any pony made it down to check on him. He seemed reluctant to visit the doctors but seemed unharmed so nopony insisted.
It must be some kind of miracle that he wasn't hurt. Falling 3 stories and surrounded by all that flying stone. Khenal sure is lucky he wasn't in his office that day. The flying debrie could have had him ending up like poor ol' Enog.
However, now Khenal has a skylight in his office looking into the caverns. Going to seal that up quick.
OOC: I'm not sure what happened, but it looks like the floor I purposely collapsed in a dangerous way, looking for some FUN, you know, smashed through the ground below it, and through that ground, until it hit Khenal's office, where it stopped. I didn't even know that could happen. Below is a zoomed in picture showing Toltot unconscious in Khenal's office. which is three floors down from were he fell.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
That unicorn foal that moved here recently, has been possessed! But she doesn't seem violent. She's claimed a craftponies shop, and is running about collecting things. Everypony is staying out of her way, we don't want to hurt her if we don't have to.
In happier news, Sargent Carrot's wife, Kil, gave birth to her second child. A little earthpony filly. (Name is Kerlig)
Chartity's Journal 6th Sandstone 97
After breaching the caverns for the purpose of repairing Khenal's ceiling, we have decided to not entirely reseal the caverns. We will put a drawbridge up, for if we need to change that decision, but for now, we will alternate shifts between the two militia squads at keeping watch at the entrance. The squad not on duty will be training. This will allow us access to a bounty of cave spider silk, and a source of different types of woods, from what grows on the surface.
Addendum: Some migrants have arrived.
A male earthpony wood cutter and a female unicorn comedian (also, novice woodburner). Only those two. They arrived together but claim not to be together, or even to know each other as more than passing acquaintances.
7th Sandstone 97
I was awoken early this morning when our little possessed filly returned to normal. She doesn't remember doing anything, or any of the time that transpired but she does know that that crown she made is called, The Page of Crowds. It shows Bokbon doing some of her art and also depicts a Darkbolt brutalizing a rodent woman. I've heard it told that when the gods act through ponies to make items, that it is often to impart some wisdom, but I see none in this crown. It is beautiful though.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Charity's Journal 23rd Sandstone 97
Our reservoir is finished, the mayor's office has the lever to dis/enable the water flow, to keep it full. Now we just need to wait for the water level to rise.
2nd Timber 97
A number of amphibian men attacked some ponies in the caverns. The markspony squad made quick work of them. I'm told Sargent Carrot bashed one to death with his *honey badger bone crossbow*. It's easy to see why they call him Psycho Carrot.
3rd Timber 97
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/cobalt%20grows.png)
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
New pony in game description!
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:04:29 am
Good news! Carrot seems to be happy again as his wife has given birth to a lovely cute baby foal!
Miss Charity has been very kind to us medical workers and built us a new reservoir of water after i told her about the muddy well water.
Bubbles
Post by: thetyler101 on October 27, 2011, 09:38:35 am
Hey book! Mr. Toltot came in today.
He had a broken wing! I guess he can't go to the doctor hu. There wasn't any krovvy on the outside so nopony noticed. I took some plaster and stuff from the stockpile so we could put a cast on it. He knew some doctor stuff, but I hope I didn't do anything wrong. He didn't really flinch or anything. He said that this isn't the first time he had a wing broken. Other diomedes didn't like the color of his coat, so they beat him up a lot. I viddy why he moved here then.
He said Mr. Enog was where he got hurt! I hope he's OK too. I'm sure he will be though.
I just saw Mr. Enog book. He wasn't Ok. He asked me to tell his family he loves them.
Still can't get that door open. Stupid black vine things. Mr. Munest was there though, so he will look after him. I'm glad I found him again.
-
Remember that unicorn filly I told you about before book?
Well something weird happen today while we were playing hide and sneak with Bubble (Ms. Ironya's son, not the doctor). She's dubby-dobby at that game, so it takes us forever to find her. Then I got the idea to use one of the spells Khenal taught me! It was a locator spell that makes a line to where the pony your trying to find is. It was super hard and I didn't do it very dobby, so the line weaved all over the mesto. Along the way, I govoreeted about when Mr. Bokbon made this great crown, that story of Toltot's brother and that vermin-cheena thing, and I tripped over some dirt root somepony left lying on the ground! Eventualy, we found her, but she had a blank stare, and ran off saying she had to do something. It was rude, but I guess she forgot to do her chores. I do that sometimes too, so it's OK.
He had a broken wing! I guess he can't go to the doctor hu. There wasn't any krovvy on the outside so nopony noticed. I took some plaster and stuff from the stockpile so we could put a cast on it. He knew some doctor stuff, but I hope I didn't do anything wrong. He didn't really flinch or anything. He said that this isn't the first time he had a wing broken. Other diomedes didn't like the color of his coat, so they beat him up a lot. I viddy why he moved here then.
He said Mr. Enog was where he got hurt! I hope he's OK too. I'm sure he will be though.
I just saw Mr. Enog book. He wasn't Ok. He asked me to tell his family he loves them.
Still can't get that door open. Stupid black vine things. Mr. Munest was there though, so he will look after him. I'm glad I found him again.
-
Remember that unicorn filly I told you about before book?
Well something weird happen today while we were playing hide and sneak with Bubble (Ms. Ironya's son, not the doctor). She's dubby-dobby at that game, so it takes us forever to find her. Then I got the idea to use one of the spells Khenal taught me! It was a locator spell that makes a line to where the pony your trying to find is. It was super hard and I didn't do it very dobby, so the line weaved all over the mesto. Along the way, I govoreeted about when Mr. Bokbon made this great crown, that story of Toltot's brother and that vermin-cheena thing, and I tripped over some dirt root somepony left lying on the ground! Eventualy, we found her, but she had a blank stare, and ran off saying she had to do something. It was rude, but I guess she forgot to do her chores. I do that sometimes too, so it's OK.
-------------------------
Sweet Luna I love writing nadsat! It Just feels... good, you know?
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:42:04 am
I will have to reveal my secret soon to miss Charity, she seems to understand it.
I can use magic.
Khenal and Miss Charity as the only others i know here, aside from that strange foal.
I'm going to tell her straight away, so maybe she can help me control my gift.
Bubbles
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thats right, i just forced you all to teach me magic and roleplay XD
Post by: thetyler101 on October 27, 2011, 10:08:53 am
Thats right, i just forced you all to teach me magic and roleplay XD
------------
Dr. Bubbles (hehe, I like his nickname) took me to his cantora today book. He said he wanted to show me something secret. I almost ran away right them, but he said it wasn't the bad thing daddy warned me about.
He said he could do magic. I didn't believe him.
He started to try to levitate a bowl of water off a table. He took a long time, and I was a bit sleepy even with all his grunting. When I took a big yawn, he started yelling "Look look I did it Look!" but when I looked back, there was just the bowl upside down on his head and he was all wet. I govoreeted that It was amazing, but I remember when an earthpony trader showed us the same trick. He even had the same malenky flash of light from some powder too. It was a dobby trick though, I liked it.
He said he could do magic. I didn't believe him.
He started to try to levitate a bowl of water off a table. He took a long time, and I was a bit sleepy even with all his grunting. When I took a big yawn, he started yelling "Look look I did it Look!" but when I looked back, there was just the bowl upside down on his head and he was all wet. I govoreeted that It was amazing, but I remember when an earthpony trader showed us the same trick. He even had the same malenky flash of light from some powder too. It was a dobby trick though, I liked it.
----------------------
tee-hee :P
Edit: just to clarify, he can actually do magic, but nopony believes him!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 27, 2011, 10:46:43 am
Doctor Bubbles visited me, in my office, today. I think he was drunk. Kept going on about he can use magic. An earthpony, doing magic, it was all I could do to keep myself from laughing him out of my office. He was asking me to teach him to use his powers. He saw I didn't believe him and did a few simple magic tricks, you know the kinds earth pony and pegasi foal entertainers do, and tried to pass them off as genuine magic. Realizing he wouldn't leave without an answer, I told him to take it up with Khenal, or one of the other Unicorns. I told him the truth, I don't believe his nonsense, and even if I did, I don't have the training to tutor anyone in more than the very basics, nor do I have the time or inclination to do even that.
Anyway, I'm revoking his booze privilages for the next week. Lucky for him we just got the clean water well set up, or he'd be drinking mud.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 10:48:01 am
You guys are making me look bad.
VERY BAD.
It's infuriating lol
Anyways will be back in about 8 hours, need to go hit the hay now.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 02:05:25 pm
Not much has been happening lately, my Book. Friesden continues to give me the silent treatment. Dr. Erok has been much more sociable lately, even earning the nickname "Dr. Bubbles" for his personality. Venture and the other foals have picked up some odd slang from somewhere. Part of the new aqueduct collapsed through three floors and into my office.
Oh wait, that qualifies.
Two ponies were caught in the chaos of the collapse: Toltot, the odd pegasus, and Enog, one of the farmers. Poor Enog didn't survive his fall, but Toltot looks like he escaped without a scratch. I'm lucky I wasn't in my office, I likely would have fared as well as Enog.
Chapter 40
Dr Bubbles surprised me in my office today, claiming to be able to do magic as an earth pony. Most ponies don't know it, but earth ponies do actually have some magic. It's mostly subtle things, like their farming ability. I even have a book that talks about it here somewhere. Anyway, he tried to show me a few tricks of his, looking almost desperate that I'd believe him. When I said I did, he looked ready to explode with happiness. He asked me to teach him how to work magic, and I told him I'd try, but Earth Pony Magic is different from Alicorn Magic, which is different from Pegasus and Unicorn Magic as well.
Some of the principles are the same, though. It requires focus and discipline. I told him to gather a pot with soil, and he'd know where to get the soil he needs, and a seed. Plant it and focus on it for at least an hour each day, and come tell me when it bears fruit.
That should be a good exercise for him while I learn more about how Earth Pony Magic works.
**************
Spoiler: It's Dr. Bubbles! (click to show/hide)
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 27, 2011, 02:57:07 pm
Khenal, for the pony creator when it says ponytail I usually use on of the braided styles.
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 03:07:47 pm
Dear Diary, Entry no.2go ahead! :D
Carrot seems to be writing in his journal. I hope he's alright. I think i should read it to be sure what his problem is.
Bubbles
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC: Would you let me read your journal The Master?
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 03:32:24 pm
Hehe, this is really picking up and getting interesting.
Khenal, for the pony creator when it says ponytail I usually use on of the braided styles.
Ya, I was considering that, but decided on the top-knot style since he's a stallion. And I liked the immage of a pony with a literal pony tail style :P
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 03:48:38 pm
Hello? Can anyone hear me or read this? I am Friesden
Friesden's New Diary
Conventional wisdom says only a unicorn can suicide.
I think I'll test this.
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 03:51:23 pm
A CHILD! Things appear to be looking up! Well, they were, until I saw khenal's journal...
Quote
Hmm, if a single word can break her, can another word build her back up? I'm going to try something very risky, my Book. I'll need to be careful and absolutely sure it doesn't look like it's from me. I'm going to sneak a charcoal stick into her cell so she can write without picking her wounds, and it's going to have it's own note and word: Hope.
I WAS RIGHT, HE DID CAUSE ME TO GO BERSERK, AND NOW HE WANTS TO MESMERIZE FRIESDEN AGAIN?! No, never again shall we fear the crazy doctor's dark magic. I shall put an end to this. I'm going to be waiting by friesden's cell, and I'll ambush and KILL khenal. Tonight, there will be blood.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 04:16:48 pm
Sergent Carrot helped me to get my office back into shape after the collapse the other day. I think I'll actually miss the view of the caverns after the hole is patched. I was moving the files on Friesden when I tripped over a bit of rubble and spilled the whole thing. When I picked up her diary, I noticed something new: A new entry. What the hay?
Before I could consider it further, though, Sergent Carrot dropped something of his own. He just gave me a sheepish look and we returned to cleaning my office. He left rather hastily once we were finished, though. I'd wonder if anything is wrong, but he's always been a bit high strung.
I've had time to think on Friesden's diary, though. It's a bit of a long shot, but I have an idea.
Friesden's Diary
Hello? Friesden?
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 04:21:59 pm
Yes? Who is it? Please, you've got to help me!
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 04:39:24 pm
Friesden! It really is you! What's happening? How can I help you?
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 04:43:29 pm
I don't know! It's dark and I can't see anything! Please, you've got to find a way to help me here!
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 04:52:51 pm
What's the last thing you remember? Anything could help, I need information.
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 05:15:20 pm
((WAIT...are you pulling a harry potter: chamber of secrets?))
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 05:25:22 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 05:35:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 05:42:09 pm
"Sorry Carrot, a little busy right now. Maybe we can talk later?"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 05:55:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 06:07:16 pm
"It's a book. Evidence. I'm just making sure I haven't missed anything."
That's a good excuse, right?
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 06:10:17 pm
I told 3 ponies aboout my magical abilities. Miss Charity was laughing at me, the foal (God dammit I can't remember her name tyler) looked like she'd seen it eery other day, but Khenal actually believed me and told me Earth Ponies have their own branch of magic as well!
I noticed Psycho Carrot left his diary/journal here in the medical ward. I'll bring it to Khenal so he can try and figure it out.
Wait...WHY IS IT PULSING AND GLOWING?
Bubbles
((hehehehehehe. I kinda get the feeling i'm messing everything up.
If nopony gets it, i'm saying a mystical copy of your journal is here, the master.))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 06:38:02 pm
I give him my best flat look, at least I hope I do. I'm not the best liar."Uh huh. Sure, now I'll ask again, WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH FRIESDEN'S PERSONAL DAIRY?!"
"It's a book. Evidence. I'm just making sure I haven't missed anything."
That's a good excuse, right?
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 06:44:06 pm
"Sergent Carrot! You will maintain a civil tone with me or you will leave; by your own power or my own!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 06:45:03 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 06:49:06 pm
turns to bubbles
"NOT NOW!!! IF YOU WANT TO HELP, RESTRAIN KHENAL!"
Turns back to Khenal
"THIS ENDS NOW!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 06:50:33 pm
Why do i suddenly feel a surge of power...Could this be magic??!!
"Sergeant Carrot! Restrain yourself, or face the consequences!"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 06:53:53 pm
Grabs a sharp object
"KILL THE PONY RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS MADNESS!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 06:55:37 pm
I feel a primordial burst of rage coming towards my hooves. I must stop Carrot, or who knows what will happen to him.
"Sergeant Carrot, this is your last warning!"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 06:58:18 pm
"ON GUARD YOU SON OF A DWARF!"
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 06:59:42 pm
"Sorry."
My horn glows brightly, signaling my arcane intentions. With a flash, his weapon is gone, teleported to the armory. If that presence is back, it will not be armed. A second flash has the same sleep spell I used on Friesden drape itself about Carrot's mind.
*************
Now to see if that sleep spell will stick ;)
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:00:25 pm
*BOOM*
((thoughts))
That was a quite massive blast. I wonder what it did to him...?
God damnit khenal
You ninja'd me lol
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:03:10 pm
"What the clop?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:05:38 pm
I wonder if the letter was delivered...hmmm
It should explain everything to the Captain.
"Khenal. Should i take him back and restrain him in a traction bench?"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:05:44 pm
"NO...YOU CAN'T DO THIS! I NEED HIM AWAKE! WAKE HIM UP NOW! I CAN'T KILL YOU IF THIS VESSEL IS NOT AWAKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:07:31 pm
The magic is flowing within me...I can feel it! Maybe i should try growing plants to shut his mouth...
"How about we stop you from talking?"
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 07:09:48 pm
"A traction bench wont do for this. We need a piece of adamantine, it's the only thing that can truely bind something like this. Raw, refined, or worked into shape, it doesn't matter. Fetch a piece! I will restrain him here"
I hope
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:11:05 pm
"Umm...Khenal?"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:12:38 pm
"If one body tires, another shall take it's place."
A bright red mist flows out of the body and begins to drift in the direction of khenal.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:13:41 pm
The master, you're just giving me more and more opportunities for magic XD))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:16:08 pm
((Are you guys all watching the thread? I'm playing pony fortress and i immediately get a email every 5 seconds about a new reply((nope, I just enjoy this thread so much that I keep refreshing the page.))
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:18:20 pm
"KHENAL! WATCH OUT!"
A burst of light explodes from my hooves, vaporizing the red mist.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 07:20:17 pm
My horn blazes white hot as the adamantine flies up, forming into a small sphere. The red mist is drawn into it as the walls shake with unearthly screams. They quiet as the mist drains into the sphere, eventually fading entirely once the mist is gone.
"Try not to exert yourself like that, Doctor. Unfocused magic can be very dangerous. And try to remember these events. I will not"
I then pass out.
**************
Oh, also: Khenal is a guy.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:21:24 pm
I pick up Khenal and bring him to the hospital with all possible haste.
((Please don't be over, roleplay! this is still fun. Maybe Khenal could make a sudden recovery.))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:29:36 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:30:41 pm
After bringing Khenal to the hospital, i must discuss this with Miss Charity.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:33:58 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:34:15 pm
a flash of blood red appears in my eyes, but disappear just as quickly
"Wow...my head hurts...whoa, never mind..."
I follow doctor bubbles to where ever he plans to lead me to.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:35:38 pm
Captain! could you come with me please."
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:39:23 pm
"Sure...gah! I feel ...a bit quee...queee....oh dear...."
I vomit up blood then pass out.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:40:20 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:42:11 pm
They were working on fixing Khenal's office up. Khenal said that a daemon had taken over Carrot's body. He banished it with magic and he passed out. I think there's still a little of the daemon inside Carrot, so we must get him to the hospital now! We can discuss this later!"
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:45:42 pm
"Daemons... Carrot... a clopping assassin... Fine bloody day this is turning out to be."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:46:33 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:47:19 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:49:05 pm
"Somepony tried to off me just now! He tried to use his magic to send this blade straight through my throat. Thank Kulet the bastard missed."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:49:29 pm
Carrot doesn't have much time left!
Doctor Allen! Help me stop Carrot from coughing up blood! He may need a transfusion!
Captain, bring Khenal over to that bed.
Captain, i believe that blade wasn't from an assassin. Khenal magicked it back to the armory after the daemon tried to kill him with it."
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 07:52:53 pm
daemon((it's spelled demon))
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:53:41 pm
daemon((it's spelled demon))
I mean the other one lol. We didn't exactly breach HFS yet, did we? Daemon is what i'll call it.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 07:54:09 pm
He looks worriedly at Carrot. Crazy or not, he's one of his men.
"Is there anything else I can do, Doctor?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 07:55:57 pm
lol I just realized that this is going to stay at the top of the board for community games FOREVER!
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:00:12 pm
daemon((it's spelled demon))
But daemon looks cooler :P
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:01:15 pm
Khenal, maybe you could suddenly wake up and remember everything? Magic...
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 08:01:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:02:37 pm
daemon((it's spelled demon))
But daemon looks cooler :P
Daemon is the CORRECT spelling. It means a spirit.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:05:12 pm
"Captain, could you go to Khenal's office and take anything of note in there? I'll need Doctor Friesden to help with this. Look and see if you can find her diary. One more thing. I can use magical telekinesis. Do not be alarmed if you hear something in your head."
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:05:48 pm
"I WILL KILL YOU ALL!" I scream in a deep, demonic voice!
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:06:56 pm
Suddenly, a band of adamantine encircles Carrot.
I collapse to the floor.
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:08:28 pm
I don't know! I'm so scared! Please, you've got to help me!
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:09:55 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:10:24 pm
Friesden's diary appears next to me.
I look inside.
"Armok help me."
STARKEY! THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY OUT OF THIS! RELEASE FRIESDEN AND GET HER HERE, NOW!
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:12:50 pm
"THERE'S NOTHING YOU FILLIES CAN DO! YOU WILL ALL DIE!!!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:14:35 pm
Seemingly speaking, it says:
"DAEMON! STOP THIS MADNESS NOW! ARMOK COMMANDS YOU!"
((You ought to crumple and go back to normal now. This is the ultimate card XD))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:15:52 pm
A bang of thunder blast downwards.((Oh come on, that's not fair and you know it!))
Seemingly speaking, it says:
"DISCORD! STOP THIS MADNESS NOW! ARMOK COMMANDS YOU!"
((You ought to crumple and go back to normal now. This is the ultimate card XD))
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:16:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:16:36 pm
Hello? Is anypony there?
I'm frightened.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:17:10 pm
Khenal you just beat me. Again.
Editing now...
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:21:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:22:33 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:26:08 pm
I picked up Friesden's diary and began to write, saying "Friesden? Is that you?"
"Starkey! Grab the military, we can't let this daemon destroy the fort!"
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:33:11 pm
"Guys...? Can you ever forgive me? I...*sobs* I am so sorry for trying to kill you..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:34:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:34:26 pm
Who are you? Your voice is different to the other two's.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:35:09 pm
Hah, the 'yelling-from-the-walls' trick works every time. Discord isn't the only one who can play mind games. Speaking of minds, time to lock this memory away as well. A brief glow surrounds Khenal's horn.
"ooogghh, not so loud..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:35:36 pm
"This is the new Chief Medical Pony, Bubbles. I can get you out of there Friesden."
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:38:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:39:30 pm
Out of where? Did we get to the fortress yet?
Chief Medical Pony? Where are we? Why should I trust you?
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:40:14 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 08:40:37 pm
Starkey leans over the waking Khenal, pulling the keys from his belt.
"Sorry lad, need to borrow these for a moment."
((Crap, you guys post so fast.))
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:42:04 pm
"OK Starkey. Carrot seems to be back to normal. I'll get him back to you as soon as i can."
((It strikes me that King Strongbeard is going to have one heck of a time putting this into words.))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:43:49 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:44:14 pm
I smile weakly, knowing that everything will be alright...or will it?
((OH GOD DAMMIT DON'T CAUSE MORE TROUBLE!))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:45:30 pm
((Relax, I meant that the danger has passed for now. I'll wait until another time when you least expect it to cause trouble.))I smile weakly, knowing that everything will be alright...or will it?
((OH GOD DAMMIT DON'T CAUSE MORE TROUBLE!))
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:46:10 pm
I open my eyes to see the chaos that the hospital has become. Why does that feel familiar? Friesden!
"Where is Friesden's Diary!?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:47:42 pm
"Khenal! Tell Friesden that Starkey is going to let ((Him/her?)) out! She doesn't trust me, only you."
((have you guys realized that we've fill up 6 pages with only 3 hours of time?))
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 08:50:04 pm
Hurriedly, i give Khenal the diary.((Meh, It's like this thread was waiting for me to give it adrenaline. oh, and friesden is a girl.))
"Khenal! Tell Friesden that Starkey is going to let ((Him/her?)) out! She doesn't trust me, only you."
((have you guys realized that we've fill up 6 pages with only 3 hours of time?))
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:50:11 pm
Hello?
Am I dead? There's no light here. I can't see. Where are you? Please? I'll be good! No, don't! Don't don't don't don't don't!
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 08:53:25 pm
"Miss Friesden? It's me, Captain Starkey. We talked, before, remember?
Listen Miss Friesden, something's happened in the hospital, and we might need your help. I'm going to take you there now."
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 08:54:16 pm
It's me, Khenal. I'm sorry, I'm in the hospital and I'm not sure why. Please tell me, what's the last thing you remember before everything went black?
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 08:54:42 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Hold on, Khenal, whats the last thing you can remember?
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 08:57:12 pm
I don't remember! Please! I'll be good. Don't make me go away! Please?
Please? I don't want to go!
"Hah. Remember you, yes I do. Honour, eh?"
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 09:04:27 pm
That's...not good. But don't loose hope, you'll get back to yourself, I promise!
"There is no honor in suicide, Dr. Friesden. Suicide abandons those who care about you. I can help you, Dr. Friesden, but only if you wish help. Please."
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:08:13 pm
"Friesden...don't *cough* ugh...don't give up on life. What's the point in killing yourself...Armok won't be too happy, so it's not like you'll be welcomed there with a party...*cough*..."
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 09:11:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:11:14 pm
Friesden's Diary
What? I am with myself! Where are you? I can't see you! It's all black in here. Help me, please! I'll be a good girl! I'll do anything, please, don't do it, dad! Dad! Please!
(The rest of the page fills with red marks.)
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:13:05 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 09:16:43 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:17:19 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:21:07 pm
"Starkey, Khenal is writing inot friesden's diary And seems to be getting a response. What is the friesden over there saying?"
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 09:23:44 pm
She's babbling some nonsense about honor and death or something.
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 09:24:12 pm
Not again! Never again! They never had this chance, but I've done the research, I can at least give her a chance at being whole again.
Friesden's Diary
Friesden, listen to me! Do not give up hope! Remember your friends, they give you strength. If I could, I would take your place, but it's all up to you. Please, be strong, my friend. Things are about to get very scary, but you must come back to us!
My horn glows a soft green, belying the powerful magics now at work. Some part of Friesden's consciousness is in her diary, and it must be reunited with her body. The bridge is made, now Friesden must cross it and return to herself. Then she must confront whatever or whoever is in her body now.
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:27:22 pm
"Friesden!"Friesden's Diary
Not again! Never again! They never had this chance, but I've done the research, I can at least give her a chance at being whole again.
Friesden's Diary
Friesden, listen to me! Do not give up hope! Remember your friends, they give you strength. If I could, I would take your place, but it's all up to you. Please, be strong, my friend. Things are about to get very scary, but you must come back to us!
My horn glows a soft green, belying the powerful magics now at work. Some part of Friesden's consciousness is in her diary, and it must be reunited with her body. The bridge is made, now Friesden must cross it and return to herself. Then she must confront whatever or whoever is in her body now.
Who are you? I'm safe here. Father told me so. Where's mother? Have you seen her, Khenal-of-the-Faceless-Voice?
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:33:15 pm
"Ugh...I...ohhhhh my head...Did...did I miss something?!"
I begin to look around and notice the destruction of the hospital, the IV sticking out of my arm, and the fact that i'm strapped to a traction bench.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:39:17 pm
I notice that Khenal is channeling magic. Hurriedly, i transfer some of my energy to boost him.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 09:40:34 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:42:35 pm
"Why is there nopony here..."
I begin to become worried about such simple things such as that, all the while something far more sinister was occurring in another wing of the fortress.
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:42:43 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:44:19 pm
I grab the diary from Khenal, and write to Friesden "Your other half awaits, you must defeat them."
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 09:45:24 pm
Friesden's Diary
I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting your mother, Friesden. Or, come to think of it, your father. Could you tell me about him?
The bridge spell will last on it's own for now. I need to probe the Diary, figure out if Friesden is alone in there. Suddenly, the diary is snatched from my hooves.
"Hey!"
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 09:46:03 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:46:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:47:01 pm
He doesn't like me talking to strangers. Who are you?
Mother! Mother!
I can hear her! Where is she?
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:47:32 pm
I release Carrot from the traction bench, but tell him to wait in my office.A look of utter confusion washes over my face
I grab the diary from Khenal, and write to Friesden "Your other half awaits, you must defeat them."
"Do I know you...? I feel like I should, but I can barely remember my name..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:48:33 pm
"Your name is Psycho Carrot. Mine is Bubbles. Please wait in my office, first door on the right."
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 09:51:58 pm
"She doesn't know pain yet.
She will now."
Friesden's Diary
(A red blotch appears over the page)
"She doesn't know evil. Now she will feel it."
Friesden's Diary
(A purple blotch appears, covering the red)
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:52:16 pm
"Is it now. How funny...So, I'll just walk over here then...Oh, do you think you could teach me how to fly? I seem to have forgotten..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 09:54:14 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 09:58:29 pm
"When I grow up, I want to be a soldier!"
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 09:58:41 pm
Not on it or on me. Daemons have a unique aura, once you know what to look for. Once you do, it's not that complicated to siphon them from wherever they are, though it takes a lot of energy to do so. I scour the Diary and, through the bridge, Friesden's body for all trace of daemon, pulling it into a tight vortex about my horn.
"Lets see how each of us fairs in a straight fight, Daemon!"
The red mist enters my horn
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 10:00:41 pm
*looks around*
"KHENAL!! BE CAREFUL! IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE, JUST CALL!"
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 10:01:41 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 10:08:23 pm
"I've never seen crossbow before, but it sure looks neat!"
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 10:08:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 10:10:54 pm
Post by: The Master on October 27, 2011, 10:18:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 10:23:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 27, 2011, 10:26:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 10:48:11 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 10:49:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 10:58:20 pm
'Wait, friend! She may be right. This isn't some 'other Friesden', they're two aspects of the same mare! Destroying this one could do irreparable harm to her other half!'
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 11:10:44 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 27, 2011, 11:12:41 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 27, 2011, 11:32:37 pm
ansontan2000, an earthpony, with magic, (bad enough all ready) who can create and bend adamant, and use telepathy, without having had any training at all. Seriously, SERIOUSLY SERIOUSLY. Did you really think that would add to the game. Yes, I'm mad, but I guess we'll have to roll with it. Also, a note, in the future, using the "booming voice from above" is not a cool move. Don't do it, if it's being faked somehow, then make that clear, at least in out of character notes. I realize that this has already been addressed by others, but I was unable to post at the time, and wanted to say it now.
A bit of retcon, the reason possessed Psycho Carrot could break the adamant bands that Bubbles made is that they were either, an illusion, or just magically dyed blue stone, not raw adamantine, as creating that is something only a powerful god could do.
Also, Khenal.
This Friesden considers ponies to simply be experiments in potentia, while the other Friesden actually has friends. Still think you are powerful, fiend?"are you about to pull a power of friendship overpowering of Friesden's dark half? Because I'm totally okay with that. Fits the source material at least.
Also, as we have already brought the gods into this more than I ever expected, Discord, filly Celestia, etc. I'm going to try and write a bit of history of them, that we can use as cannon for this fortress and it's world. In an attempt to keep everyone on the same page about what the celestial situation is. If everyone is okay with that. If not then we can leave it undefined, if the majority would rather it be left alone.
Post by: Impending Doom on October 27, 2011, 11:37:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 27, 2011, 11:42:11 pm
Also, Khenal.
This Friesden considers ponies to simply be experiments in potentia, while the other Friesden actually has friends. Still think you are powerful, fiend?"are you about to pull a power of friendship overpowering of Friesden's dark half? Because I'm totally okay with that. Fits the source material at least.
I'm hoping for something along those lines, but it's Dsarker's character and his decision. Either way, I doubt there will be a beam of rainbow magic to fix everything. Though like I said, it's Dsarker's character :P
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 28, 2011, 12:20:43 am
Honestly, i can't even remember wtf got us descending into chaos like this.
Well, we'll just roll with your explanation of things.
Post by: Dsarker on October 28, 2011, 02:31:47 am
Post by: Khenal on October 28, 2011, 04:20:49 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 28, 2011, 04:30:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 28, 2011, 04:38:24 am
Post by: Khenal on October 28, 2011, 10:56:27 am
Post by: The Master on October 28, 2011, 05:47:24 pm
"Hey...Can I have a cake? I'm hungry!"
Post by: Dsarker on October 29, 2011, 12:42:43 am
Post by: Khenal on October 29, 2011, 01:12:58 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 29, 2011, 01:14:06 am
Post by: The Master on October 29, 2011, 01:14:43 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 29, 2011, 02:54:08 am
((Hows that for a anticlimactic ending? If you guys still think this is not right, just tell me, so i can change it.))
Post by: Dsarker on October 29, 2011, 05:33:40 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 29, 2011, 10:35:14 am
"In the beginning, there was chaos. No light no dark, no up, and no down, and all of these things together. When after many Eons, for unknown reasons the singular chaotic mass of the universe divided. Into light and dark. From this divergence was born Celestia of the Light, and Luna of the Dark. The sister goddesses. For a long time the sister's played together, but eventually, they grew lonely, and so they divided the light and the dark a second time to create the 6 elements of Harmony (laughter, honesty, loyalty, generosity, kindness and magic). However, the creation of these six elements had an unintended consequence. By creating these elements they unwittingly created the opposing forces. For Laughter can not exist without sadness, honesty can not exist with deception, loyalty without dishonor, generosity without selfishness, kindness without cruelty, and magic without chaos, none of these things can be without the opposite.
So as the sister's worked, creating the lesser gods that the religions of the world pay worship to and those lesser gods then created all of the ten thousand things in their paradise, the six elements of discord through some unknown malice, formed their own champion, the being we know simply as Discord. Discord could not stand the utopia created by the sisters and the other gods.
Discord's first action, was the transformation of the world of the sister's into Slade, a dark terrible stone filled with his malice, and to corrupt all of the Princesses' servent's into the horrible beings we call Demons. The sister's and their children the gods and goddesses where outraged, they banished Discord and sealed his abominations beneath the great magma sea, and underneath the goddesses gift, the blue metal, Adamantine, so strong, and so charged with the elements of harmony that, not even Discord could undo it.
Though the gods had banished Discord, they were not powerful enough to truly control him, and his initial failure had taught him one thing, he must be subtle in his work, he could not hope to destroy their work all at once but only through slow meticulous corruption from the inside out could it be done. And so Discord returned, apologetic and offered to help the gods recreate that which he had destroyed, and so he works with them, sowing his chaotic magics into their design, and creating his own things, from Discord comes all the foul, twisted, and wicked things in the world, the Diomedians, the Titan's, and the forgotten beasts below all bare his mark."
Well I'm not really happy with it. Looks like poorly written fan-fiction to me, but I guess it'll do. I might add to or alter it later, if I feel inspired to do so.
Since our latest break out of RP seems to have died down I will now include Charity's reaction to the events below.
Charity finished reading the paper in front of her and before lightly dropping Commander Starkey's report on the table next to Captian Khenal's. Her hoof was placed soundly in front of her face for several seconds. She then looked up at the two ponies sitting across from her.
"Commander, Captain, I can hardly believe these reports. Were it any other ponies telling me these things I wouldn't believe them. But, to get to the reason I called you both here, is it turns out Bubbles wasn't lying, when he claimed to have some magic. I feel that this might be a dangerous sign. I direct your memory to the madness that broke out several months ago. During the time that Friesden tried to end herself, madness was erupting throughout Glitterglen, one such example was that we had multiple sightings of an unusual earthpony, FLYING, in the dinning hall. Here is an artist's sketch of the creature."
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
"Bubbles strange powers make him the second unusual pony to be seen in a very short time. I fear the two may be related. Khenal, I want the guard investigating Bubbles. I don't trust him, he might be being influenced by the same force that's been acting on Friesden, and Carrot. Naturally, the fact that he is being placed under suspicion must be kept secret from the general population. And Starkey, as Sargent Carrot's CO you should go and tell his wife Kil about his memory loss. I don't know what induced his amnesia, but it might help him remember himself if he were see his wife and foals."
OOC: Nothing personal ansontan, I just remembered that I briefly mentioned sightings of Screwball before, you did any magic at all, and thus this just seems the most sensible reaction for Charity to have, to another magic earthpony. Although maybe you are being influenced by something? I don't know, it's your character and it's up to you. But it certainly does look that way from the outside.
Post by: Khenal on October 29, 2011, 12:24:56 pm
*********
I like the ancient history, Strongbeard. Sure it's fan fiction, even crossover fan fiction :P, but it's not bad. It supports most everything that's been hinted at so far, and now everyone will at least have a common base for any mythical shenanigans we get up to :)
Post by: Theropod Watcher on October 29, 2011, 01:43:05 pm
Post by: thetyler101 on October 29, 2011, 02:05:14 pm
The basic premise is that of the creation story on the DF wiiki (http://df.magmawiki.com/index.php/DF2010:Adamantine scroll to the bottom). Here's the short version:
The gods want to build a world, but need a source of energy to do so. The Demons already figured out how to build a world out of slade and for the most part were chillin like villains on said world(s). The gods had beef with the demons some some reason so they covered there world in molten hot MAGMA. This understandably pissed the demons off and they attacked the rock, only managing to make it hotter and allowing the gods to do there thang. Eventually they add adamantine to stop the occasional demon from fucking there shit up too often... and rinse and repeat till you get a multiverse of a million billion gods and worlds.
Now, my part (also some strongbeard):
The big cheese of the multiverse is ARMOK. Spell it all capital because he's a boss. He was the dude that figured out all of the above and was pretty much the defacto ruler of all gods because he was such a bad ass. He also dose this thing were he destroys and remakes worlds when they get boring but whatever. Well even gods have needs and eventually this guy falls head over heels for another goddess. Her name was Faust (see what I did there) and surprisingly, she was not some beautiful love goddess or some craven lust goddess, but some minor deity of horses and art for a tiny human coastal nation on some no name world. Love conquers all.
Cellestia and Luna were both created in the way described by king . I said they had needs, I didn't say they made sense to mortals. Also like strongbeard said, they were having a hell of a time in the void. Eventually, the old man got sick of there nonsense, making all sorts of elements and messing around with all sorts magic and spawning trickster gods of chaos (hey we all experimented once in collage), but the big thing that set him off was that they had the audacity to say they knew a better way to build worlds!
The sisters figured they could build an magic imbued anti-Slade that could function as a power source for world forging. ARMOK was quick to point out that not only would this words foundation be unstable, but the end result would also have to be insanely micromanaged! You'd have to shake the leaves of the damned trees yourself because all the bloody earth and nature magic would be used to keep the thing from tearing itself apart!
However, the girls were persistent and ARMOK had it up too hear with there shenanigans and decided to teach them how the real mutivers works. He destroyed there prototype paradise, forged a REAL world, and had them and there little pantheon rule over it's mortals in PROPER god fashion, none of this waking around amongst them helping garbage. He figured that in time, she would grow out of this 'paradise' thing and move on with here eternity like everydeity else.
Also, he posted Discord there to keep an eye on things and report back to him, not to mention to do what he dose best to show his daughters how hard being a god truly is, and... because he was feeling too lazy to actually destroy him at the moment. He is a bit of a dick about keeping it a secret, but then he's a bit of a dick about everything.
What do you think?
Post by: The Master on October 29, 2011, 02:10:21 pm
I hop around, laughing of no reason at all
"WHEEE! This is fun!!"
Post by: Dsarker on October 29, 2011, 05:20:08 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 29, 2011, 06:19:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 29, 2011, 07:39:05 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 29, 2011, 08:44:51 pm
Diary entry 7.
Dear Diary,
Miss Charity has posted guards with me. She is obviously worried about my magic. However, one of them noticed during the day that white smoke is flowing out of my mouth.
While recording medical information, I have found that we're almost out of plaster powder. I've got to tell Miss Charity.
OOC: Khenal and starkey DON'T know what happened inside the office. Khenal did say "Try to remember this, doctor. I certainly won't"
Post by: The Master on October 29, 2011, 11:59:45 pm
"Hi! My name is Psycho Carrot! What's yours?!" I ask excitedly.
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 04:10:23 am
"Please, Friesden, I just want to help you. If your father wants to hurt you, he'll have to go through me first."
********
As far as Friesden's true character, it seems a longshot for her to be manipulating everyone at this point. The schism of personalities in her Diary would take a schemer of the highest caliber to even put to paper. After all, it's her diary, for her eyes only. The words of meek Friesden appearing in her Diary suggests magic, and Friesden is no alicorn or unicorn. She theoretically could have a magical accomplice, but that seems a bit out of left field. You could still pull off the schemer, but this level of schemer is very difficult to write, especially with multiple people writing their stories as well.
I will say this, though: You are at the crossroads for your character. If she's a schemer, this could be her opportunity to avoid punishment for her crime by blaming it on her "darker half." Khenal is too much of an idealist to allow "meek Friesden" to take the punishment that her dark side deserves. She'll be free to continue her experiments, but will need to be extra careful; it's unlikely she could fake her way out a second time. If she really does have a schism of personalities, and the dark side wins, she'll get to face the full punishment of the law. If her good side wins this encounter, she'll likely get off punishment, but have to deal with the shadow of her darker side waiting for her to slip again.
Or you could think of something totally different and completely awesome. Like I keep saying, she's your character. I can give ideas and try to inspire, but you decide how she really will be. :)
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 04:33:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 04:36:58 am
"Please... Please, you've got to leave."
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 04:44:38 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 04:45:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 04:50:19 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 04:59:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 05:02:12 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 05:08:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 05:11:32 am
A darker tinge fills the voice.
"Yes, my girl?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 05:20:49 am
How is Khenal going to overcome THIS?
I look forward to your next posts.))
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 05:27:10 am
Do I dare to leave her at the mercy of this side of her?
"Pardon me, madam, my name is Khenal. Are you Friesden's mother?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 05:28:31 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 05:36:13 am
"We were talking about friendship, it seems she's had little opportunity to experience it. I've been trying my best to explain it, but she's rather nervous about what her father would think."
***********
Is that the voice of the darker Friesden that I've heard before?
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 05:50:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 05:52:06 am
"Well, dearie, it's her father, you see. I'm sorry, I can't talk about it more. You're the second pony to talk to me, besides her. Recently, I mean. You see, dearie," she leans close, "I'm dead."
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 06:01:39 am
"Um...I'm sorry to hear that, it sounds like you were very important to her. Can you help me explain friendship to her? She's very hurt right now, and I'm afraid of what may happen if she has to continue on alone."
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 06:23:59 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 06:42:29 am
"Um, where to begin? You want to help her and don't bear a grudge against her, that's part of friendship there. Friends want to see each other happy, and are there to console each other when they are sad. They make the good times great and make the worst times better. They are a calming voice in burning anger, and an encouragement when you're not sure you can go on. Friendship makes anything possible, and is perhaps the greatest force for good that ponies have access to."
***********
I just wanted to say that while using spell-check for eachother, one of the potential corrections was "psychotherapy", which I found hilarious.
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 06:47:01 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 06:51:38 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 30, 2011, 06:54:29 am
Charity's Journal 5th Timber 97
As I write this Thundersplinter is in the processes of moving her possessions into her new room in the wooden tower. Her new room is one floor above her private carpentry shop. I understand her desire to live up their, but I hope she won't forget to come down to visit the rest of us occasionally.
Charity's Journal 12th Timber 97
The forest is teeming with parasprites. They're harassing our woodcutters.
Our ranger's have just informed me that a cave pony caravan has been spotted just over the hill. Best start moving our goods to the Trade Depot.
Charity's Secret Journal 13th Timber 97
I know I shouldn't laugh at this, but well... The Marks pony squad was sent up to the walls to watch for the cave pony caravan. While they were sitting there, bored and taking the occasional shot at a passing parasprite. One of the little buggers decided to fight back. It rammed Tecak three times. Bruising his wings and chest, knocked the wind right out of him (bruised lungs). He probably could have avoided the blow better one of his legs wasn't still in a cast, but still to see a full grown pony have the crap beat out of him by a parasprite, is just too funny. Of course he then shot the thing twice pinning it to the wall with a pair of bolts.
Charity's Secret Journal 27th Timber 97
Cryptson's adopted another kitten. He named it etol.
Also, I noticed Peytrel polishing his axe in the dinning area earlier, not worth mentioning in itself, but I think I heard him talking to it, think he called it his baby.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Peytrel%27s%20axe.png)
Charity's Journal 1st Moonstone 97
Winter has officially arrived on the calender, and our deadline for the offering to the Princess is drawing near. I've ordered the production of several more crafts to be made including electrum goblets, clear glass glasses, sterling silver and brass instruments, yarn robes, and cloth dresses, all decorated with gems of every color, and hoofworked bone, horn, and shell. Hopefully we will meet the deadline. I wouldn't worry, but we did trade more than we probably should have to the cave ponies. All our craftponies are going to have to put in overtime to meet the production goal.
OOC: Yeah, I could use food to meet the self set goal of 10,000 without even trying or caring about the loss, but that's too easy. Of cource 10,000 is really low with any type of goods, assuming you can make a lot of them easily, I'll probably increase my set goal for next year.
Also, Venture is four years old, as of last in game month. Why do I mention that? Because Peytrel's only six. Yeah, we're a year or two away from Venture being a full grown pony. Have you given any thought to what he's going to do as a young adult?
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 06:59:33 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 07:07:03 am
"I...find that hard to believe. While she's seemed afraid of her father, she seems comforted by you. Was there an accident?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 07:07:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 07:11:43 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 07:12:49 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 07:33:50 am
" The part of her that...stopped...her father. That saved her mother."
"I...see. You've also been talking with her darker side."
"Near enough, dearie. What are you doing with my lesser half?"
"I doubt even a memory of her mother would call her a lesser half. Friesden, I hope you heard my brief description of friendship, because I forgot something: Friends also forgive, even when we cannot forgive ourselves."
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 07:42:32 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 07:55:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 08:03:31 am
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 08:14:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 30, 2011, 08:17:31 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 30, 2011, 08:21:35 am
I find you have not read my remark about there being little plaster powder (I had a hunch) *shrugs*Oh, I'm sorry, I did read it, just forgot to write anything about it. And you guessed correctly, we had one bag of plaster powder but that was used up fixing Tecak's leg, so we are actually, completely out.
After Bubbles explains the lack of gypsum powered, for casts, to the Baroness. She replies, "Thank you Doctor, for informing me, however, as you are aware, there isn't any gypsum in jungle for us to make plaster from. If you need more splints than feel free to put in a request for some with the carpenters, however that's all we can do for now. I will, of course, put a request in for more gypsum powder on the next caravan, and I believe the one due to arrive next month will be carrying some. Is there anything else, Bubbles?"
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 08:29:52 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 08:41:46 am
((I bet you were expecting magic books.))
Post by: Khenal on October 30, 2011, 09:03:00 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 09:09:16 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 30, 2011, 10:24:08 am
"Yes. I have found a large amout of ponies to have severe injuries i lack the knowledge to treat. I request the purchase of medical instruction books."
((I bet you were expecting magic books.))
"That is fine... You know I think I remember Ms. Friesden having a few books on anatomy when we first moved here. If they weren't in her old office, (Bubble's office now) then they might be in her old room. You might want to look for them there. Better you take them then they just sit collecting dust. But, I'll make sure to place an order for some from the caravan, from the capital, and I'll let Bokbon (our unicorn broker/legendary bonecarver) know to keep an eye out for those sorts of books, when dealing with other merchants.
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 30, 2011, 10:25:32 am
Post by: The Master on October 30, 2011, 02:27:43 pm
"Hi! I'm Psycho Carrot!! What's your name?!" I ask excitedly.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 31, 2011, 01:35:18 am
"Uh Sargent Carrot. It's me, Charity. Overseer and mayor of Glitterglen. Remember? You've known me for over a year."
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 02:07:37 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 02:32:39 am
"Erm, miss Charity, Sergeant Carrot appears to have a very powerful case of amnesia. It appears that he has forgotten almost everything he has experienced in his life."
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 03:03:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 03:35:26 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 31, 2011, 03:51:26 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 04:11:38 am
"Hate and violence? You really don't know about friendship. I'll ask, but not to help me. It's to help her. Friesden? Why did you...
It has to be blunt, she needs to deal with this part of herself. Sugarcoating it won't help her.
"...Why did you kill your mother?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 04:31:00 am
"Weak. She was weak. Cattle to the slaughter. Weakness must be purged. I had to do it."
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 04:37:20 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 04:43:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 04:45:36 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 04:48:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 04:49:41 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 04:59:42 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 31, 2011, 05:01:36 am
Charity racks her mind thinking back many many years to when she was a young filly, trying to remember her magic lessons.
"I've never heard of a possession leading to memory loss before. Do you think the spirit cast some sort of amnesia spell on him before it left? Or could the amnesia be induced by some kind of emotional trauma? In the case of magic then you should probably take him to Khenal. Khenal's been reading alot of books on magic and might be able to help. But if it's his own mind causing it, then seeing his wife and foals might help him remember."
"But you said you couldn't find her? That seems strange. Have you seen his oldest foal around? You could ask them where she went."
His wife if it matters is a unicorn named Kil, she has no skills, and is thus just a peasant.
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 05:01:51 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 05:15:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 05:22:59 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 05:32:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 05:47:15 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 06:00:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 06:09:29 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 06:21:07 am
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 06:29:21 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on October 31, 2011, 06:35:11 am
"I don't know, Doc."
Looks Carrot up and down.
"He doesn't look dangerous. But we can't leave him to wander around the fort. It's probably best if you take him back to the infirmry and have Nurse Alen watch him for awhile. Just encase anything were to happen."
Psycho sounded like a child, the way he bounced up and introduced himself. Could his memory loss really be that severe? Best to talk to him like he is a child, as to keep him calm, thinks Charity to herself.
"Carrot, Dr. Bubbles is going to go take you to a nice unicorn lady who'll take care of you for awhile. Okay?"
She smiles the biggest fake smile she can muster which she hopes looks comforting, as she gestures them out, opening the door magically, to allow them through..
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 06:40:44 am
"OK, Carrot. Nurse Alen, can you please take care of Carrot while i look for his family?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 06:53:40 am
Khenal feels a chill run through his veins as he recognises the voice.
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 07:02:46 am
Post by: The Master on October 31, 2011, 08:50:23 am
"YAY!!! I GET TO SEE THE NICE UNICORN!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 09:13:11 am
((WAYYYYYYYYYYY OFF TOPIC: Listening to chipmunked songs is addictive...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxwWfOKCQlY&feature=related))
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 07:44:52 pm
I try to be brave, but my words are shaky and my face is covered in a cold sweat.
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 07:58:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 08:19:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 08:24:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 09:08:34 pm
Post by: The Master on October 31, 2011, 09:45:52 pm
"Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey! Hey, Nurse! HI!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 10:28:52 pm
"Khenal, Carrot appears to have lost all memory. Do you know any magic that may help him?"
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 10:29:31 pm
Post by: The Master on October 31, 2011, 10:33:21 pm
"HEY! CAN I HAVE COOKIE NOW?! HEY, THIS IS THE SONG THAT GOES ON FOREVER, AND EVER, AND EVER, AND EVER, AND EVER, AND EVER, AND EVER..." and so on and so forth until the nurse passes out.
Post by: Khenal on October 31, 2011, 10:41:28 pm
"Memory loss? There are lots of spells to cause amnesia, but every one I've heard of is temporary. Specific things can be hidden for a lot longer, but it takes a lot of magic to do something like that, and a lot of time. If it takes him much more than a week to recover, it's most likely something he wants to forget. Forcing him to remember could be very bad. I'll check my books, but not today. I'm too tired and everything is a jumbled mess; I need time to sort some things out. Sorry"
I hold the door for him and then take my leave as well. I glance in at Friesden in her cell as I leave for bed.
"Goodnight, Friesden"
Post by: ansontan2000 on October 31, 2011, 10:43:52 pm
"CARROT! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO NURSE ALEN?"
Post by: The Master on October 31, 2011, 10:46:58 pm
"She got...HAHAHA...she got bored! HEY, WANT TO HEAR A FUNNY SONG?! THIS IS THE SONG THAT GOES ON FOREVER, AND EVER, AND EVER..."
Post by: Dsarker on October 31, 2011, 10:51:56 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 01, 2011, 04:22:10 pm
Bebmal, our head brewer, (Venture's Mother) has had another foal. A little Pegasus filly. That makes five kids for those two earthponies, none of which are themselves earthponies. I don't think genetics is supposed to work this way.
OOC: I had a little lesson about weapon material today! I put Commander Starkey in a room with our Diomedian prisoner. I left the prisoner with his armor to make killing him a little better for training. However, Commander Starkey still had the copper axe he had become attached to so long ago. I never bothered forcing him to equip anything else. The fight started, and Starkey naturally took the Tentacled bastard down quickly, but he couldn't kill it. He just kept bashing it in the head for 73 pages of battle reports. Until Starkey started falling down himself from exhaustion. At this point, I unlocked the doors and let his faithful pet Grizzly Bear in to help him finish the Diomedian. He was fighting that one enemy for nearly a month. All because his exceptional copper axe couldn't get through a no quality bronze chanfron.
On the plus side Starkey gained 3 levels in his axe skill!
Charity's Journal 13th Opal 97
Commander Starkey took our Diomedian prisoner, and executed him today. He took him to a new room he had ordered dug out and smoothed. The militia has been calling it the arena. Its a big room with lots of space for fighting and lots of fortifications to watch the carnage from. He had Khenal fighting wild chimps in there last week, but today, he wanted to duel the prisoner himself. He ordered that the prisoner be allowed to keep his weapons and armor to fight fair. Starkey beat it, but let his pet war bear have it when he grew tired of tormenting the creature. The whole thing seems gruesome and inpony to me. I mean I understand we had to kill the Diomedian, we couldn't let it go, and holding it prisoner forever is impractical, but I question the means employed.(What is the pony speak for inhuman, inpony sounds wrong to me).
Charity's Journal 14th Opal 97
I don't know what Ironya was doing in the caverns but, when she was out there she ran into a horrible little ape-like creature with tusks, I've been told it's called a Gorlak. It chased her but she ran into two of our hunters who quickly put the beast down. Fortunately nopony was hurt.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
22nd Opal 97
The marksponies, were standing guard and unloaded most of their bolts into another gorlak. After killing the beast they decided to go after a couple of those Creeping Eye things. They killed two but that woke the nest. Ten more of them suddenly appeared, and the ponies were down to their last bolts. They retreated and begged the guard to help them. Khenal rallied the guard and they went off to fight them. They had little trouble slaughtering the hoard of them. But then, a roar filled the caverns. The sound was unmistakable. A troll had come. Khenal, knew the guard were the closest to it, and that going back to the fort could allow the creature to follow them, or to lay an ambush for somepony else. Kheanl made the decision to fight the creature here and now. They charge the Troll, led by the fearless Captain Khenal, and with perfect teamwork, honed by many hours of training, the creature is defeated in seconds. Kussad the spearpegasus who finished the beast, drew his spear from the monster's head, and wiped of the blood and brains. Before thanking his
__________________________________________________________________________
Charity's Journal 9th Obsidian 97
GOD'S ABOVE! A swarm of parasprites has come out of the Jungle, not unusual, we get those sometimes, but I just witnessed one, bite a war dog in the throat and shake the whole thing around like a child's rag doll, and then it bite it's head and tear it's scalp right off. There was blood everywhere. At least the poor thing bleed to death quickly. We need the militia out there now, before somepony get's hurt.
Charity's Journal 16th Obsidian 97
A rainbow pony caravan has been sighted. The militia and fortress guard are still running around killing every parasprite they can get their hooves on. We can't trade much to them just yet however, as we expect a caravan from the capital soon, and have to make our offering to the princess. Once that is taken care of we will know how much we have left to trade.
28th Obsidian 98
Another spring, another year in Glitterglen. It's funny, I can hardly remember life before here now, and despite our problems, I don't think I'd rather live anywhere else. I think I'm going to go down to the dinning hall and have a pint of Pegasan Ale with Thundersplinter and Pillomino, I haven't talked to them for awhile.
1st Granite 98
Great news, Good news, and bad news. The good news, we were able to make the princess's tax with nothing but a pile of dresses and robes, made by our excellent tailors, and a couple of instruments made of worthless metals, sterling silver, black bronze, and such. The great news is that in gratitude for us making the offering Glitterglen is being officially recognized as a county of The Shells of Dance, and I'm being made the countess! The bad news, is this means we are expected to pay double the taxes we paid before.
We did acquire several tons of metal, our furnaces will be running night and day trying to melt all the crappy armor, weapons, toys, figurines, bee hives, nest boxes, buckets, splints, jugs, pots, and whatever else they had, into bars our smiths can work with.
Unfortunately for Doctor Bubbles, the two caravans only had one bag of plaster powder between the two of them, I will however request for more next year, as promised.
I also bought a few books on first aid for the Doctor, it was all they had, I placed an order for proper texts for next year. I also, got myself a few introductory level magic tomes, Cobalt is getting close to the age were his magic is going to start expressing itself, and I need to be ready to help him learn to channel it safety. Plus with all the magical things going on, it couldn't hurt to know a little more myself. I know Khenal has some more advanced magic books, I'll ask him if I can borrow some of them as well.
Post by: Khenal on November 01, 2011, 08:40:08 pm
Something is very wrong with Friesden. I don't think it's a daemon, in fact, it might not be anything foreign at all! Even if it was a daemon, there's no way to permanently force one out of somepony else; the host has to force it out, or it must leave on it's own. Of course, I learned that only after trying to banish what I thought was a daemon from Friesden.
She definitely has a very troubled past, and I think the various "hers" that I talked to genuinely didn't know what friendship was, even the more stable sounding ones. I'll be recommending that her punishment for the murder is imprisonment until rehabilitated or dead of old age. Banishment would only unleash her on other unsuspecting ponies. I fear we were lucky she only got one before we could capture her. And execution is simply not an option, my friend is in there somewhere.
So I'll just keep trying to get through to her, hoping she'll open herself to friendship, however many of herself it takes! I'll also be keeping an eye on her Diary, just in case more writing appears in it.
Chapter 43
Our arena had it's first fight to the death between sentients today: Commander Starkey vs the Diomedian. Both were fully armed and armored, Commander Starkey would never simply execute an unarmed pony, even a Diomedian. Unfortunately for the Diomedian, Starkey is simply unmatched with that copper axe of his. Starkey broke the Diomedian, but was unable to land a solid killing strike through his armor. Once it became obvious the Diomedian would likely bleed out before Starkey could strike an immediately fatal blow, he called for his bear to deliver what he couldn't.
Baroness Charity doesn't like the arena, but she acknowledges the practicality of it. After all, keeping a Diomedian prisoner for the rest of his days is hardly equestriane, and releasing him is not an option either.
My talk with Friesden today was...less than productive, I think. She heard about the arena fight and only gave me derisive comments about it. Hopefully tomorrow she'll be in a less abrasive personality...
Chapter 44
I've never been so proud of the Guard than I was today!
The markspony squad was practicing their archery and tactics in the caves today on creeping eyes after dispatching several gorlaks. Apparently Ironya was the first to spot those things. Hunting has become quite the training exercise for the fighting ponies of Glitter Glen. It's great practice and puts good meat on the table, so everypony wins.
Anyway, they upset a huge swarm of creeping eyes, and retreated, sounding for assistance. They had run out of bolts, and while the eyes aren't too dangerous, they most certainly couldn't be allowed to follow the retreating marksponies into the fort proper. The Guard formed ranks and dealt with the swarm calmly and efficiently, relying on each other to cover their personal weaknesses. I was about to sound the all clear when I heard a roar that had dust shaking from the stalactites above: A Cave Troll! We returned to formation instantly and advanced on the beast. Through teamwork, we were able to slay the monster with no injuries. Kussad struck the final blow, coming in from above with his spear while the rest of us harried it from the ground. I couldn't help but beam at the rest of the Guard for their teamwork and dedication!
I'll be telling Friesden this tale of friendship shortly. With any luck, more examples of strong individuals being taken down by weaker groups will show her the strength in friendship.
Chapter 45
I used to think parasprites were kind of cute, my book. After seeing what one did to a war dog, not so much. The Guard and the Army have been chasing the little winged buggers for the past week or two, so I didn't even notice the caravans arrive.
I've never seen two caravans in the depot before. One was from the rainbow ponies, as they call themselves. It's heartwarming and a bit weird to talk to rainbow ponies, they are a culture of diomedian, cave and ordinary ponies. They're quite friendly, even when getting confused looks from the more sheltered residents of Glitter Glen. They also have excellent magic tomes, their diversity giving them an excellent range of arcane knowledge.
The other Caravan was from our Princess! Apparently she's quite happy with how we've doing here, as we are now a county instead of simply a territory! Charity has been made a Countess now, and she fully deserves the title. Most nobles I've seen were full of themselves and helped nopony, but Charity has worked hard to guide Glitter Glen to where it is today. Just the thought of doing paperwork in addition to everything else she does makes me blanch.
The caravan itself was a bit odd, at least to me. When I asked them about any books on magic, they looked confused for a moment before snickering and congratulating me on a decent prank. I decided to not press the issue. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that they figured an alicorn wouldn't need arcane tomes.
***********
I like using inequestriane in place of inhumane, inpony does feel a bit off.
Khenal would be more than happy to lend Charity any books she asks. In fact, she's one of the few ponies in the fort who might recognize that some of them are in Khenal's hornwriting (hoofwriting?), even one or two from the caravan...
Edited for minor grammar/spelling
Post by: The Master on November 01, 2011, 08:45:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 01, 2011, 09:07:31 pm
I'm happy here, my other self. I know you read this, lesser me, so why don't you talk to me? Talking is weakness, nuncle. Dearie, you're a bit full of yourself. Greater, lesser, all are equal. Greater self, what is 'equal'? Equality is what alicorns have. Not even them, nuncle.
Post by: The Master on November 01, 2011, 09:11:59 pm
Friesden's Diary((MONKEY ON A STICK, poor friesden sure does have severe multiple-personality-syndrome!))
I'm happy here, my other self. I know you read this, lesser me, so why don't you talk to me? Talking is weakness, nuncle. Dearie, you're a bit full of yourself. Greater, lesser, all are equal. Greater self, what is 'equal'? Equality is what alicorns have. Not even them, nuncle.
Post by: Dsarker on November 01, 2011, 09:19:30 pm
He didn't believe me.
Post by: Khenal on November 01, 2011, 09:25:24 pm
whaaat? nothing about me? :o
Mostly for two reasons. Firstly, he doesn't remember his most significant interractions with you. Seccondly, you two don't have many opportunities to interact. You are in the markspony squad and he's captain of the guard. Also, he's not the most observent pony when he had something on his mind.
...So three reasons, I guess :P
Post by: The Master on November 01, 2011, 09:30:55 pm
huh, fair enough.whaaat? nothing about me? :o
Mostly for two reasons. Firstly, he doesn't remember his most significant interractions with you. Seccondly, you two don't have many opportunities to interact. You are in the markspony squad and he's captain of the guard. Also, he's not the most observent pony when he had something on his mind.
...So three reasons, I guess :P
EDIT: Awesome new avatar, khenal!
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 01, 2011, 10:12:55 pm
Dear Diary:
Between the two caravans, we only got 1 bag of plaster powder. Miss Charity has told them that we need more, so hopefully more will come.
We've been promoted to a county!
The caravan has brought many healthcare books, which I need to get to reading immediately.
-Bubbles
Post by: Dsarker on November 02, 2011, 12:01:00 am
Post by: Khenal on November 02, 2011, 12:17:10 am
It's "Horse drawn horse drawn carriages", by the way.
Aw, but I like hyphens. Thanks on the comments on the new avatar everypony :) I was watching that episode and couldn't resist getting a cap of it
Post by: Dsarker on November 02, 2011, 12:19:19 am
Post by: Khenal on November 02, 2011, 12:39:24 am
Carriages, not carraiges.:'(
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 02, 2011, 02:55:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 02, 2011, 09:50:38 pm
"WHY AM I CR-CR-CRYING?! WAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!"
((AH! RANDOMLINKTOPICTURESOFPONIESIMADE!! http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=95145.msg2730479#msg2730479))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 10:07:22 am
All of a sudden, I begin to cry for a reason I don't even know
"WHY AM I CR-CR-CRYING?! WAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!"
((AH! RANDOMLINKTOPICTURESOFPONIESIMADE!! http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=95145.msg2730479#msg2730479))
Since everyone else seems to be ignoring you, I'll play along.
Charity is walking past the infirmary where Psycho is staying. She overhears the sounds of crying. She considers getting the doctors, but decides to investigate first. She walks in and sees Psycho.
"Carrot? What's the matter? Are you okay?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 10:09:04 am
"Wha....What happened?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 10:12:46 am
"Why do I feel like I'm forgetting someone?!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 10:17:49 am
I continue to sob
"Why do I feel like I'm forgetting someone?!"
"Psycho, it's okay." Uses magic to drape a warm blanket over psycho's shoulders.
"Doctor, I think he's trying to remember Kil. Go get her now. She should be nearby. I saw her on my way in, she was moving some drink barrels down to the dinning hall, look there."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 10:18:59 am
((I need you two to talk a bit more, I'm not about to time-warp.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 10:26:17 am
I need to get him to try and think about himself, to remember, thinks Charity.
"Carrot. Tell me about yourself."
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 03:21:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 03:43:18 pm
Books are rapidly pulled out, briefly examined, then replaced on my shelves.
"No. No. No no no no no no no! Oh, there it is."
I finally find the book resting on my desk. I crack the book open and glance inside, making sure this is the one with the memory charms.
"This should do it."
Closing the book and stowing it in my pack, I head out to the hospital.
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 05:30:49 pm
"IT'S NOT FAIR! WHY DO YOU GET TO HAVE ALL OF YOUR MEMORIES?!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 05:38:34 pm
"Well...I know that...agh it's all fuzzy! I remember you and Friesden...I think she did something bad...then...Ugh! I can't remember!"
"That..."
Interrupted. I was just starting to type.
((I guess I'll keep talking then, since nobody has "arrived" yet.))
"IT'S NOT FAIR! WHY DO YOU GET TO HAVE ALL OF YOUR MEMORIES?!"
"Carrot, memory loss can be caused by many things, and I don't know what your cause is yet. But you say you can remember me and Friesden, and that Friesden did something bad. That is more than you remembered the last time we talked. Before long you might even be back to normal."
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 05:47:46 pm
"Friesden...It's very fuzzy, but I remember- AGH! My head hurts so baaaad......"
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 06:11:43 pm
I pause just inside the door as I see Carrot being consoled by Charity.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 06:25:34 pm
"Oh, Captain. Doctor Bubbles has ran to find Kil. Carrot, is starting to remember somethings."
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 06:42:08 pm
I walk up next to Carrot.
"So, how are you doing Sergent?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 06:53:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 07:10:54 pm
I give Carrot an encouraging smile.
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 07:28:15 pm
I suddenly scream in pain, rubbing a extremely deep gash in my left front hoof.
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 07:59:00 pm
"How did you get a wound like that? You probably shouldn't be rubbing it, are there any nurses around?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 08:06:10 pm
I splutter, as I notice the blood oozing from it!
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 08:16:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 08:28:04 pm
"I remember something...I was talking to friesden, then everything went nuts! I went berserk and I tried to kill everypony! But Khenal, that's not what is making me shake...It's what happened after that. I remember being hit by the blunt side of Starky's axe, but here's the problem: I wasn't knocked out, I...WAS...-I gulp as I say the final word- KILLED! The world went dark and I saw the light. Then it faded and I fell! So the question is, HOW AM I HERE TALKING TO YOU?!"
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 08:35:55 pm
"Um... maybe you had a vivid dream when Commander Starkey knocked you out?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 08:42:05 pm
"Wouldn't that be nice? I wish, but if it was just a dream, -I lose all trace of horror at this point, replaced by a strange calmness- why isn't my heart beating?"
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 08:50:19 pm
"It is, isn't it? I mean, you're bleeding. I don't think dead ponies bleed much, and they certainly can't worry about being dead, right?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 08:58:08 pm
"I really don't care about anything anymore...Even if I am just some half-mad pony, I...I don't know. I really...huh. -I suddenly perk up, acting childish again- That's funny, was I talking just now? Weird! WANNA HERE A JOKE?!"
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 09:05:20 pm
"Um..sure?"
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 09:06:43 pm
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 09:08:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 09:13:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 09:17:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 09:28:32 pm
'Wait, "before?"'
"N-Now settle down Carrot. You still have that nasty cut. I don't want you to get hurt, so please relax."
My horn starts to glow subtly as I prepare to scan Carrot's surface thoughts.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 09:30:06 pm
"What happened? Why does carrot have an injury?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 09:32:23 pm
Edit: Ninjad. Fixed for continuity.
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 09:32:55 pm
"YOUR BODY?! HAH! IT'S MINE, AND I PLAN ON KEEPING IT THAT WAY!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 09:33:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 09:40:45 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 09:41:20 pm
((Erm...Strongbeard, I just entered the room))
Yes you posted while I was typing. I have edited my post, to something more sensible.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 09:45:44 pm
Charity curses. "Doctor! You see to Sargent Carrot. I'm sorry Kil you should come with me, your husband is in no fit state, for visitors, just right now. Please come with me."
Charity leads the young unicorn mare out of the room.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 09:54:22 pm
"Thank you Khenal, now I can treat his hoof. It will need dressing and cleaning. I suggest to stay, just in case something else happens."
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 10:03:55 pm
"Wait, madam!" I yell, rushing to the door. "Physically, your husband is, um...ok, but he really needs your moral support right now. Please, just be here for him, let him know he's not alone."
Whispering to Dr. Bubbles:"There is more wrong than just the gash on his hoof, he needs his wife here if there is any hope for him to pull through. And, um, would you mind checking his pulse for me? And not freaking out if it's not there? Please?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 10:06:40 pm
*I put my hoof on his chest*
"He doesn't have a pulse."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 10:19:05 pm
((At this point I'm thinking nobody is reading. Khenal, Kil has already been taken away by Charity))
Not necessarily. I said I was going to do that, but it is perfectly reasonable for Khenal to say something before I leave with her as I walk out. Which is why I said "she leads the unicorn mare from the room" and not "and then Charity and Kil leave the room." Two very different sentences. And thus they stop and she stays.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 10:19:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 10:31:44 pm
"Carrot, your wife is here. Let her know you're alright, I'm sure she's worried about you."
Post by: The Master on November 03, 2011, 10:37:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 03, 2011, 10:48:06 pm
I step back to allow Kil and Carrot to be together without my interference.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 03, 2011, 10:49:07 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 03, 2011, 10:50:27 pm
(It's your show, The Master)
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 11:04:13 am
"It's all fire...Lost...FAILURE!!!"
"Honey, your scaring me! What is wrong?"
Silence.
"Hmm...I better check his pulse..."
Kil reaches for Psycho's neck.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 04, 2011, 11:25:32 am
((And I'm off to hit the hay.))
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 03:04:11 pm
"He's...He's...ohhh..." Kil collapses in a crying heap.
((FYI, clearly, i'm not dead, but my heart is not beating. Just making sure you know i'm not killing my own character))
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 03:11:18 pm
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 03:13:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 03:20:17 pm
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 03:44:55 pm
"stop yelling..." Psycho moans.
"BUT-BUT-" Kil faints.
Meanwhile in Psycho's mind...
"You cannot win! Khenal will save me!"
"HAH! You sound so confident considering that you haven't had control since you had the mishap with Friesden!"
"I WILL DEFEAT YOU!"
"TRY!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 04, 2011, 03:59:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 04:19:52 pm
"You can defeat it, Carrot. I know you can! Don't believe it's bluster and lies!"
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 04:43:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 04:55:39 pm
My horn glows softly as I begin to channel energy into Carrot. Bolstering memories are recalled for him, reminding him that he fights for more than just himself. I extend a bit of magic to Carrot's consciousness as well, hoping to give him some extra force to push the daemon out.
'I may not be directly able to banish a daemon, but i can give Carrot a helping hoof to do it himself.'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 04, 2011, 05:02:05 pm
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 05:04:58 pm
"NO! THIS ISN'T HAPPENING! I WILL NOT LOSE! I WiLL NoT Loosssssss I wwwwwwlll...lssssssssss.....I-I-I-I-I-I-"
The daemon's screams fade to gibberish, which in turn fades into silence. Psycho is free...for now.
"Guys...? I...umm...Thank you. Thank you, one and all..."
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 05:16:35 pm
"Any time, Carrot. After all, what are friends for?"
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 05:31:00 pm
Psycho hugs Khenal and Charity, then smiles.
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 05:45:49 pm
"I'm just glad you're alright."
I consider asking about his pulse, but decide against it. 'He's himself again, that's all that matters. Even if he overestimates my magical abilities. I'm no mental mage. Not anymore.'
'Wait, what?'
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 06:07:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 06:24:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 06:27:49 pm
"Oh no. Now you have memory loss? This just isn't my day..."
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 06:41:38 pm
"Says the pony who just bested a daemon in mental combat. I'm sure it's nothing, and if it's not, we can deal with it later. You need your rest."
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 06:50:05 pm
"Hey, ummm...I know that I am dead...well...i'm not dead...but medically speaking I am. Khenal, what do you recommend I tell Kil? This is all very confusing...Also, HOW IN THE WORLD DO YOU KNOW THAT THE WHOLE MENTAL WARFARE WAS HAPPENING?!"
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 07:01:35 pm
"As far as what to tell your wife, I have no idea what to tell her about your....physical state. Just reassure her that you are still you, even if you...might be dead?"
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 07:07:14 pm
"I guess I'm officially a zombie...hooray...i'm going to go cry in a corner now."
Post by: Khenal on November 04, 2011, 07:33:16 pm
"Just don't forget you have friends to help you through this. I'll check my books and see if anything like this has happened before, if you like."
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 07:45:15 pm
"Thanks...I think that whole mind battle really depressed me...Do you have any medication...? I hope I can still digest food- OH NO. NO NO NO...Khenal. Zombies ROT! IF I'M A ZOMBIE...THEN....THEN...THEN....ohhhhh..."thud.
Psycho passes out.
Post by: Dsarker on November 04, 2011, 07:52:10 pm
Thread by thread, stitching it together
Charity's dress, cutting out the wound snip by snip
Making sure the pony skin folds nicely
It's the perfect color and from the hip
Always gotta keep in mind my pacing
Making sure the fur's correctly facing
I'm stitching Charity's dress
Inch by inch, chopping off the hoofnails
Dual neck slice, don't you know a dice in time saves nine?
Make him something perfect to perspire
Even though he hates formal attire
Gotta mind those intimate hoofnails
Even though he's more concerned with gaols
It's Khenal's new dress
Dressmaking's easy, from Starkey something tan
Cryptson something sturdy
Blend skin and mane,
Do you think it looks breezy?
Something brash, perhaps quite fetching
Hook in eye, couldn't you just simply die?
Making sure it skins forelock and crest
Don't forget the magic in the head
Even though it rides high when from the flank
ThunderSplinter won't look like a tank
I'm stitching Thunder's dress
Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Thread by thread, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, never stressed
And that's the Art of the Dress!
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 07:54:33 pm
Friesden's New Diary.((good gosh, you sure have a sick mind...))
Thread by thread, stitching it together
Charity's dress, cutting out the wound snip by snip
Making sure the pony skin folds nicely
It's the perfect color and from the hip
Always gotta keep in mind my pacing
Making sure the fur's correctly facing
I'm stitching Charity's dress
Inch by inch, chopping off the hoofnails
Dual neck slice, don't you know a dice in time saves nine?
Make him something perfect to perspire
Even though he hates formal attire
Gotta mind those intimate hoofnails
Even though he's more concerned with gaols
It's Khenal's new dress
Dressmaking's easy, from Starkey something tan
Cryptson something sturdy
Blend skin and mane,
Do you think it looks breezy?
Something brash, perhaps quite fetching
Hook in eye, couldn't you just simply die?
Making sure it skins forelock and crest
Don't forget the magic in the head
Even though it rides high when from the flank
ThunderSplinter won't look like a tank
I'm stitching Thunder's dress
Piece by piece, snip by snip
Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip
Thread by thread, primmed and pressed
Yard by yard, never stressed
And that's the Art of the Dress!
Post by: Dsarker on November 04, 2011, 07:56:12 pm
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 07:58:51 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on November 04, 2011, 08:04:19 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 04, 2011, 09:17:28 pm
*quickly, I wash and dress the wound.*
((The Master, i'm afraid that image is going to be my avatar.))
Post by: The Master on November 04, 2011, 10:14:52 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 05, 2011, 12:37:33 am
Friesden's New Diary.
Thread by thread, stitching it together
Charity's dress, cutting out the wound snip by snip
Making sure the pony skin folds nicely
It's the perfect color and from the hip
Always gotta keep in mind my pacing
Making sure the fur's correctly facing
I'm stitching Charity's dress
That is marvelous and disturbing Dsarker. I love it.
After the events of the day. Charity returns home, before going to sleep, she decides to read a chapter or two of one of the magic books she got off the last caravan.
As she begins reading, she notices something, unusual, the pony that wrote this has very familiar looking hornwriting. It bothers her constantly, until she get's up, half way through the first chapter and starts looking though her files. "Yes, it's a perfect match," she exclaims, "but, why?"
In front of her is on the left, a newly acquired magic book, and on the other an old report from Captain Khenal. "The lettering is identical. Did Khenal write this?"
And with that I'm off to sleep. Tomorrow is Saturday, so I hopefully will have some time to actually play some DF, and will include some normal updates and things.
Post by: Khenal on November 05, 2011, 01:01:59 am
It's amazing how ponies can become friends, my book. I headed down to the hospital today to give Dr. Bubbles a book on memory charms. Sargent Carrot had a case of amnesia and the good Doctor was worried that it might need magical treatment. When I arrived, Bubbles was out, but Carrot was awake and aware. He seemed to be making a good recovery on his own, things seeming to be coming back to him at a slow but steady pace. Then he suddenly regressed into a foallike state, grinning unsettlingly and asking if I'd like to hear a joke. Halfway though it, his expression changed and he asked me to help him. I quickly cast one of the basic memory charms from the book, allowing a look at surface thoughts, and I couldn't believe what I saw. He was fighting a daemon in his mind!
With the encouragement of his wife, and the help of Countess Charity and my own magic, we were able to help Carrot defeat the daemon and bring him back to himself. Uh, mostly. Apparently, his heart isn't beating. I don't think he's dead, dead ponies don't thank you for your help and offer new friendship. I offered to check my books for information on his condition, and he seemed a little relieved at that. Then he worked himself into passing out over the details of his new...condition.
I need to tell Friesden this tale of friendship. I'd have told her before writing in you, my book, but I don't think she was paying attention to me. She was humming something oddly catchy earlier, maybe I'll ask her where it's from later.
***********
Excellent creepifying of one of my favorite songs from the series.
Post by: Dsarker on November 05, 2011, 01:06:02 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 05, 2011, 01:37:09 am
We really need to stop this trouble, but nobody really wants to. RPing is too much fun :D))
Post by: The Master on November 05, 2011, 01:53:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 05, 2011, 01:58:10 am
Post by: The Master on November 05, 2011, 02:34:36 am
((Now it's time for me to sleep as well...G'night ponies!))
Post by: The Master on November 05, 2011, 06:05:01 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 05, 2011, 08:24:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 05, 2011, 08:25:46 pm
((We're nominated in the hall of legend! Vote up people! We must spread pony goodness throughout the forum.))((THANKS TO ME!))
Post by: The Master on November 05, 2011, 11:40:56 pm
"Hey doc. Find anything new on what's wrong with me?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 06, 2011, 12:39:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 12:59:02 am
((think Fallout ghouls))
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 06, 2011, 01:00:06 am
"This is not good..."
((What exactly do you mean the master?))
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:02:09 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 06, 2011, 01:03:31 am
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:06:25 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 06, 2011, 01:07:01 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 01:11:21 am
"'Magical Maladies and Arcane Afflictions'? Sounds like as good a place to begin as any."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:15:01 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 01:19:02 am
I set the book down before going over to open my door to see who it is.
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:27:10 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 01:37:01 am
Pages flip rapidly as I follow the index. 'Zombie' is the only condition listed with that symptom. I do my best to not let Carrot see the page as I scan the other symptoms for zombie.
"Um... have you noticed any lack in appetite, or unusual cravings?"
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:42:42 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 01:50:20 am
I reach out my hoof to feel Carrot's forehead to get a rough feel for his temperature.
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:51:26 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 01:54:34 am
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 01:55:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 02:01:43 am
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 02:03:52 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 02:16:32 am
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 02:20:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 02:36:47 am
I pause, unsure how to proceed after that awkward revelation.
"I'll, uh, keep looking for any more information. Why don't you try to get some sleep, and try to eat something?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 06, 2011, 10:25:31 am
Charity's Journal 26th Granite, 98
Rumblings in the deep. No pony has seen the cause yet, but it's getting closer. I have mobilized the entire militia to the cavern entrance.
______________________________
The battle is begun, Efim Ripeseeds and Peytrel, the axe ponies, are the first two to reach the creature. They are quickly followed by many others as they all attack the ancient evil together. The monster is slain in seconds.
(The entire combat report is posted below.)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/The%20forgotten%20beast%20is%20slain..png)
______________________________
Charity's Journal 28th Granite 98
The Creature that was heard in the deep two days ago has been slain. Our militia killed it with zero difficulty.
(Uh, uh-oh. Um. We have incoming fun. Prepare yourselves.)
Charity's Journal 7th Slate 98
I told them. I told those ponies. I told them that no amulets were to be exported from Glitterglen. But did they listen? NO! They did it anyway. I can't allow such blatant disrespect for our laws to go on. I've acquired a list of those ponies responsible for this outrage. 10 of them. Including Pillomino and Thundersplinter! I thought we could trust those two at least. I've drawn lots and the four losers will be beaten, while the rest will spend time in prison. I've given the order to the guard.
________________________________
And so the beatings began. First up was Bokbon Shigosotil, a loyal member of Starkey's own squad, she was beaten by Officer: Istlig Konabor, in the Trade Depot where her horrendous crime took place, until she was dead, a tragedy, that will undoubtedly, put a divide between the militia and the guard.
Among those imprisoned we have Pillomino, and Venture's father, (200 and 100 days respectively) among others. Due to overcrowding of the cells, Pillomino, is being forced to share a cell with...Friesden. (Fun times)
The second victim, of Officer: Istligs beatings, Nanges Lisigbol, a double legend, in both glass-making and in the operation of siege weapons. He was beaten in the main hallway, trying to run away the entire time, but being struck again and again, until, the officer smashed his head between his hammer and the wall, killing the poor pony.
The third to be beaten. Thundersplinter, was sitting in the dinning hall, attending a party thrown by the Count Consort Cryptson, when suddenly Officer Tunur, came up and kicked her in the leg, bite her in the upper body, and proceeded to administer justice with his silver war-hammer, that ranks among the finest of weapons Ironya has ever produced. Thunder became enraged and lashed out, but was ineffectual and quickly knocked back down by the powerful hammer blows. But then, the beating stopped, and the officer left her, a broken shadow of her former self, but alive. A passing earthpony, then carried the broken pegasus to the hospital, so she could recover.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Thunder%27s%20beating.png)
And the final beating was dealt to one of our more skilled butchers who while bruised, has survived. (finally got him to drop that damn Steel War Hammer and use a training weapon for his beatings.)
_____________________________________________________
Charity's Journal 10th Slate, 98
Katak, a low skilled, earthpony, metal crafter has been possessed.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 03:41:48 pm
- - - - - -
7th Slate, '98
That bitch.
And here I had hoped that maybe we could do things better here. I thought Miss Charity had a level enough head on her shoulders, and we wouldn't fall back into the barbarism that's tearing the old kingdom apart. But no. She got a little taste of power, and now she's just another tyrant, letting her stormtroopers parade around murdering at will. They.. they killed Bokbon, in the middle of the trade depot for everyone to see. Corporal Peytrel told me they carted his father off in irons - thank Kulet they didn't do worse.
I need to speak to Khenal immediately. This order can't have gone through him, he wouldn't have allowed it. If somepony in the guard is going over his head, he needs to know immediately. If not... we'll be having a long talk about a few things.
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 03:43:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 03:47:19 pm
"Evening Seargent. Haven't seen you about in awhile."
He spares him a quick glance, before returning his gaze to the book.
"You look like shit."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 03:58:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 04:00:52 pm
"Sorry, I... didn't mean to be so harsh. It's just... you heard what happened today?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 04:02:27 pm
Friesden had decided to chat with her new room mate.
"Hi! Do you like scalpels? I like scalpels. They keep trying to take them away, but someone always gets them back for me!"
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 04:38:42 pm
Starkey closes his journal, stepping away from the desk."Yeah, I heard. Now, I have to ask you something. How am I alive without a working heart?! Khenal didn't give me a straight answer!"
"Sorry, I... didn't mean to be so harsh. It's just... you heard what happened today?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 04:41:50 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 05:02:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 05:32:30 pm
Other self, you must listen! We know what happens throughout the fortress! Nuncle, our time is at hand! Khenal ordered the death of two ponies, dearies. All must know. You must know this, greater me. We must take this advantage. Even he, nuncle, will fall.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 06, 2011, 05:33:40 pm
((Is Pillomino owned by someone?))
Yes, Pillomino was claimed by someone a long time ago (somewhere in the first 10 pages, I think, I'll look for it later). But they haven't posted anything, in weeks.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 09:02:43 pm
"Khenal? Khenal, I know you're in there. Open up. We need to talk. Now."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 09:17:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 09:18:20 pm
Khenal's Book, Chapter 47
So, Caverns have some very strange thigns in them. A few days ago, horrific roars were heard from the deeps, but nothing appeared. The Army was mobilized and stationed, with both the ground squad and the markspony division ready to engage whatever dared show itself. They later described it as a gigantic, gaunt, feathered crab, which it certainly looked like from the corpse. Happily, the Guard doesn't hold a monopoly on teamwork and tactics, and Commander Starkey was able to lead them to victory without casualties, or even significant injuries! I keep saying it, but nopony is better suited to running the defense of Glitter Glen than Commander Starkey.
Chapter 48
Ugh, paperwork and low priority crime. Apparently, the export of amulets had been forbidden for whatever reason, and some got traded anyway. Charity came down to my office earlier with a list of ponies who had violated the ban, and several names were surprising. Thunder Splinter, Pilomino and Venture's father were among the "smugglers" I recognized on the list. Charity wanted to throw the book at all of them to set an example, but I told her we have laws and investigations for a reason. And besides, they were only amulets. At worst, have them pay a fine to replace them.
I've been poring through my books to try to figure out Carrot's condition, or to figure out a spell to help me figure out his condition. So far, I've not found anything concrete about what he may have become, but I've found several nice spells for examining magic fields and sensing energies. I might try a few next I see Carrot if he's willing.
Huh, it's been a while since I sent out a few of the Guard to gather the suspects. It shouldn't take this long to find a few ponies and let me know they are ready to be interviewed. I hope nothing has happened.
Huh? Commander Starkey?
"Commander Starkey? Come in, come in."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 09:21:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 09:27:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 09:33:10 pm
"Um, pretty well? They've been paying attention during training and showing great teamwork. I haven't gotten to know many of them personally yet, but I do trust them. I was actually about to try to find a few of them. I sent them out" I glance at a clock "...a few hours ago? That can't be right, they're just supposed to be bringing in a few ponies to interview about accidentally violating an export ban."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 09:36:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 09:37:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 09:43:09 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 09:44:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 09:46:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 09:52:01 pm
"Not as much as I trust you, Starkey. Where are the guards responsible?"
I levitate my spear from the corner to rest along my side.
"I think I need to talk to my men."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 09:57:42 pm
"Khenal...I...I cannot believe you would...you're sick. Absolutely sick. I cannot believe I wanted to be friends with someone like you!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 09:59:31 pm
Starkey draws his axe, falling into step with Khenal.
"I don't give a parasprite's arse."
"Oh Seargent? Do me a favor. First, calm the clop down. He's not responsible. If you can't trust him, then at least trust me. Then, I need you to head to the barracks and rouse Leiutenant Otik, tell her to gather her two best shooters, gear up, and meet me outside the armoury in thirty."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:01:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 10:03:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:08:00 pm
"Leiutenant Otik! Starkey says to gather your two best shooters, gear up, and met him outside the armory!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 10:09:47 pm
I love it when a plan comes together. I wonder how long it will take him to guess it was me?
Pillomino didn't last too long before she fell under my influence too.
She now enjoys the scalpel just as much as I thought she would.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 10:14:39 pm
The Lieutenant glares at him, bleary-eyed.
"Wha's the meaning of this, seargent? The cap'n? Why does he...? Oh clop, jus' let me wake up..."
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:17:45 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 10:24:38 pm
She climbs out of bed, muttering something about a 'clopping drama queen' before prodding two of her companions awake. In short order, they are out the door.
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:26:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 10:28:22 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:30:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 10:39:49 pm
"She don't like to be touched, man."
They leave.
((I think Glitterglen is a pretty cool gal. seh takes no shit from Carrot and doesn't afraid of anything.))
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 10:42:43 pm
I nod to myself, glad to have a plan.
"So, Commander, I'd like to offer each guard member the chance to stand down, relinquish their weapon, and wait for us in the courtyard up top. Once we find Istlig" I spit the name out like a curse "he will also be ordered to stand down and we can personally escort him to a cell, before sorting out the rest of the guard. Does that sound good?"
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 10:44:59 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 06, 2011, 10:50:04 pm
((Who will act the part of the guards?))
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 10:51:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 10:54:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 06, 2011, 11:19:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 11:24:07 pm
"Reporting for duty, sah!" he shouts out, snapping to attention. He wrinkles his nose. "Your ordered...beatings," he says, twitching as he does so, "have been carried out. As before, I address a formal complaint at using real weapons to deliver it, sah. Somepony might have gotten killed."
Post by: Khenal on November 06, 2011, 11:28:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 06, 2011, 11:58:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 12:07:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 12:13:33 am
"W-what did you say? They...they DIED? You....you made me murder them...I killed them...I killed them!"
With a flash, he draws from under his armour a small dagger. A word is visibly written on it. The word 'Honour'. He makes to stab himself.
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 12:21:00 am
My horn flares as I grab the dagger in my magic.
Honour...
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 12:41:36 am
"She knew you'd do this!" he screams. "She knew you'd try to get me to kill innocents. But I won't be your pawn any longer!"
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 12:51:23 am
"Istlig, she's lying to you, manipulating you! I would never hurt innocents! Please, calm down and come with the Commander and me!"
The knife slowly turns from Istlig and points towards the ground, before a bright flash of my horn drives it hilt deep between the stones of the floor. I look Istlig in the eyes, breathing heavily and sweating from the effort of disarming him.
"Please, Istlig. There is no honor in suicide."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 12:57:50 am
((EDIT: Khenal, you ninja bastard :P))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:03:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 01:04:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:10:15 am
"Now listen you! I. Am not. In the mood. For games tonight. Who gave the order for the killings?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 01:23:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:29:34 am
"Dammit, I am not playing with you! Who gave the order!?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 01:31:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:34:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 01:36:52 am
I place my spear against the wall and look at Starkey.
"Commander, can you handle the rest of the guard without my assistance? I said we would be disarmed and questioned, and I am no exception."
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 01:37:10 am
Post by: The Master on November 07, 2011, 01:38:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:45:14 am
Punch.
"You think you're being, funny, do you?"
Punch.
"You think it's amuuuusing?"
Punch.
"Well I'm not laughing, you sick clop!"
Punch.
Punch.
"Now you're-"
Punch.
"going-"
Punch.
"to tell-"
Punch.
"me-"
Punch.
"who-"
Punch.
"gave-"
Punch.
"the clopping-"
Punch.
"ORDER!"
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 01:51:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 01:54:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 07, 2011, 01:55:00 am
((Good night guys, happy blood bath!))
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 01:57:28 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 01:59:50 am
"I'll wager I'm not talking to Istlig right now. So out with it: who are you?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 02:10:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 02:12:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 02:20:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 02:24:34 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 02:24:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 02:34:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 02:40:15 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 02:46:05 am
"So...Schmoe it is, if you don't care about your name. How can we be rid of you?"
********
I think we can manage for now, at least. Khenal may still want to be arrested when this is through, though. ;)
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 02:49:29 am
"Why, by killing me and my hosts, Khenal. I nearly managed it with Friesden, but you have this...compunction...against killing ponies. Quite the useless ability, but there it is."
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 02:52:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 02:57:33 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 03:08:24 am
"So, Schmoe the memory eater, how do you think my memories might taste?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 03:10:51 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 03:24:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 03:30:21 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 03:40:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 03:49:00 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 07, 2011, 03:50:48 am
"Oh, Khenal! Thundersplinter told me that Miss Charity was responsible for the order for beating..."
My voice trails off as I notice the green fog.
Post by: Dsarker on November 07, 2011, 03:53:54 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 07, 2011, 03:55:59 am
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 04:05:18 am
"That cell would be great, Commander"
Is all I say before my eyes roll upward and I collapse.
**********
Tomorrow, great revelations into Khenal's past. Right now, bed.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 07, 2011, 04:06:25 am
Making me wait on you is NOT COOL
*Bubbles and Starkey rush Khenal to one of the hospital beds*
Post by: Khenal on November 07, 2011, 04:14:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 03:12:32 pm
"No doctor, to the cells! I'll not have this thing loose in Glitterglen in an alicorn's body!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 07, 2011, 03:17:17 pm
Post by: The Master on November 07, 2011, 04:15:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 04:30:38 pm
Post by: The Master on November 07, 2011, 04:41:50 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 07, 2011, 04:45:52 pm
Post by: The Master on November 07, 2011, 11:36:49 pm
((Eventually... ;D))((We haven't had day without action yet, let's not start today! :D))
((Ok...I just read the single most horrific story ever...suffice to say, it involved emo-goth-satanist levels of gore...and i'm TRULY traumatized...I'm literally whimpering as I type this...oh god...)
Post by: Impending Doom on November 08, 2011, 03:13:10 am
Post by: Khenal on November 08, 2011, 03:32:40 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 08, 2011, 03:42:24 pm
So, who will Khenal be sharing a cell with?
Choices are Shasad (Peytrel's dad) , the cell with Pillomino, and Friesden, or a cell with other nameless ponies. I'd vote for Peytrel's dad's cell. But I have no real say in it.
Post by: The Master on November 08, 2011, 11:28:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 08, 2011, 11:54:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 08, 2011, 11:55:49 pm
Just waiting till Khenal's in a cell.((jeopardy music plays.))
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 12:54:14 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 12:55:57 am
Yes, if ansontan doesn't post by next time you're online Khenal, I suggest you just pick one of the above choices and roll with whatever you have planned.
Unless anyone objects to this, or the good doctor posts before then.
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 01:19:10 am
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 01:37:06 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 09, 2011, 01:39:16 am
Darkening Kaos, CIS, LUH.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 03:02:06 am
While we're waiting - Is there any chance of a few screenshots of the fortress?A reasonable request that I will attempt to fulfill. Prepare to be entirely underwhelmed by my lackluster fortress design.
Darkening Kaos, CIS, LUH.
Big pictures ahead, you have been warned.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 03:46:09 am
Sorry for the wait, was too busy playing MW3 all day :D
*I take Khenal to the jail, as he requested, and put him in a cell with Peytral's father.
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 03:55:06 am
My horn glows and my book appears in front of me, along with an ink well and quill.
"Sorry, Dr. Bubbles, but I have to write this down right now. I don't know how many ponies need to know about this, and I think reading it would be simpler."
Khenal's Book, Chapter 49
I never thought I would miss ordinary daemons, my book. I suppose I should fill you in on what's happened regarding the so called "smugglers". Two were beaten to death, and Thunder Splinter may die from the injuries she received from one of the possessed guard. Istlig was the one who murdered the two, I don't recall who beat poor Thunder Splinter within an inch of her life. However, calling Istlig the murderer is a bit innacurate, he was possessed. In fact, several ponies were possessed by the same entity.
After Commander Starkey and Sargent Carrot confronted me about the deaths of Bokbon and Nanges, we set out to confront the rest of the guard. I was expecting.... I don't know what I was expecting, but I certainly didn't expect Istlig to simply report to me like nothing had happened and lodge a complaint about using real weapons instead of wooden ones for the "beatings". I especially didn't expect to hear him claim nopony was dead. When I corrected him, he seemed to fall appart and suddenly produced a dagger to slay himself with. I was able to disarm him while Commander Starkey restrained him and started demanding answers.
The demon decided to answer them, though it was annoyingly vague about almost everything. It claimed several names that I doubt any pony would be able to actually say, and was even vague on what kind of thing it was. I sarcastically named it "Schmoe" and called it a memory eater, as it claimed to derive sustenance from memories.
Oh, it's arrogance, my book! It delighted in breaking ponies and claimed that Friesden was it's first with glee! It's only regret that her fractured mind was not to it's taste! I dared it to try to take me, thinking I would be able to handle it simply by virtue of being an alicorn. As I was, I almost certainly would have succumbed to it. Only by virtue of my unremembered past did I posess the skill to defeat it, my belief in my friends giving the power to survive. My old self was not so inspired by friends, but I think that's at least partially why I did what I did back then.
I know this must sound confusing, my book. If it's confusing to read, imagine how confusing it is to have in your head, to have as your past. My next chapter in you will be the last, though not my last chapter ever, I hope. You are growing full, and I think will only just contain the brief history of my past. And the number 50 is a nice, round number to end a book on.
Chapter 50
I was no simple lazy alicorn in the capitol, my book. I was one of the premier users of mental magic, well versed in theory and application of my art. Application was, admittedly, rare for mental magics. It is a field that is only barely permitted, only as a potential cure for trauma and occasionally used to weed out traitors and other undesirables. I even studded actual mind control so that I could more easily identify those under it's influence and those who would dare rob a pony of their free will.
I then met my first possessed ponies. It's well known that occasionally, a pony will suddenly get inspired to create something unparalleled. Sometimes a weapon of unsurpassed balance and edge, sometimes a single sock with so many spikes as to be unwearable, but always something of unrivaled craftsponyship. This is a form of possession, though the spirits responsible for these strange moods are rarely malevolent.
Daemon possession is very different, my book. I was brought a pony possessed by a daemon, and I was fascinated. That memory eater was not the only one so arrogant, I am ashamed to admit. I researched and studied that pony, and others that were eventually brought to me. Nothing I tried could oust a daemon once it settled in, but occasionally one of the possessed would overcome the daemon and fully return to their senses. Periods of lucidity were common, but actual defeat of the daemons was very rare.
I was obsessed, my book, with finding some way of giving those ponies their bodies back. In my hubris, I experimented with mind control spells to force a daemon into the background and let a possessed pony live a normal life. At first, the experiment was a huge success! The daemons couldn't overcome strong mind control spells, and giving the reigns to the possessed seemed the perfect answer. As the experiment continued, however, it became obvious that the possessed ponies were loosing their mental toughness. If the spell wasn't refreshed in time, the ponies very quickly reverted to daemon control. The hosts were becoming too reliant on the spells and forgetting how to defend their minds!
And I, fool I was, ignored it. These ponies had their lives back, they only needed to see a specialist every week to get their spells refreshed. Surely that was better than being a puppet to a daemon? By the time I felt ready to put the treatment to the general public, I had eight possessed ponies and eight handlers who could cast the mind control spells. All we had to do was to remember to refresh those spells, and surely they were too important for anypony to forget, right?
The routine of it all, I think, was ultimately what brought about the massacre. Only one pony had to shirk their duty for it all to collapse, and eventually it happened. Two dozen ponies lost their lives before the daemons were finally banished or sealed away. Daemons were vulnerable without a host and could be sealed away or banished by a skilled mage. I would have been numbered among the dead too, if it weren't for a handful of unicorns who arrived to seal several daemons who were poised to take me.
But that was not the worst of it, my book. Those daemons knew of my prowess with mental magic. In the hooves of a daemon, untold destruction could be wrought with my abilities, and they would stop at nothing to have me. I considered suicide for a time, but never followed through. I couldn't try to fix my mistake if I was dead, and I owed it to those ponies to keep trying. I could try sealing my memories of those spells, but it would take a lot of power and a lot of time to cast a memory seal like that. My life, after all, was dedicated to studying mental magic, so there would be a lot of memories to seal. Only an alicorn would have the power to cast a seal like that, and I trusted none of the alicorns of the capitol with this responsibility.
I could cast it myself, but those were the memories that needed sealing in the first place! Then I had an idea, my book: I would use a mental construct! I'd use a spell loop to ensure my memories of mental magic were suppressed and stayed suppressed. It would put a significant amount of my magical energy out of my grasp while the spell functioned, but it would work! It could even repress new memories that could lead in dangerous directions. It would have my memories to cross-reference for what should and shouldn't be repressed. It was risky, but I couldn't trust anypony but myself to repress my memories, and now I had a way to do just that.
It took almost a year to fully research and prepare the spell, but I was finally ready. Once my memories were sealed and my power severely reduced, the princess had little use for me at the capitol. She banished me here, to Glitter Glen, likely hoping I'd die here.
I won't go into the details of my battle with the memory eater, my book, but I will tell you why I remember my past now. The memory eater attacked my spell loop the first chance it got. Whether it wanted the memories it kept locked away or hopped to crush what appeared to be a significant magical threat, I don't know. With my mental magics back, and the inspiration of my friends, the memory eater was no more. It was still a significant battle, but I did eventually win.
My friends. I hope they can trust me after this. I will ask them to read you, my book. I am tired of secrets. They deserve to know my past. Daemons and worse will be coming, sooner or later they will show their presence. If Glitter Glen is to prevail, everypony needs to know of this new threat.
I close my book, and levitate it out through the bars to rest on the floor close to Dr. Bubbles.
"Would you please read my book, Bubbles? Or get a unicorn to scan it for magic first if you don't trust me right now? I wouldn't blame you, honestly."
***************
I've had this reveal cooking up for a while now. If you guys see anything you don't like that effects our canon or your character poorly, I'll edit things, but this is Khenal's past. I'm not done with him yet, not by a long shot. Hope you guys enjoyed the freaking novel's worth of text ;)
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 03:59:57 am
"Sure, Khenal"
*Bubbles takes the book and begins to read*
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 04:21:22 am
Lost. Everything is lost. And all I had before is gone. My head is clear now. I am alone in here, like at the coming of the frost. And there's a cold winter chill in my stony heart.
The daemon is free. It got out.
If I knew why I had it in me, I can't remember. All I can remember in the symbols the alicorn told me. And my friend.
I don't know where I am. I don't know who I am. I don't know what language I'm writing. Something is missing, but I don't know what. Maybe if I make the symbols again it will go away. I don't know what they mean, but they are in the same letters as this language is. I'd ask for help, but I've forgotten how to speak. I do recall speaking, but I'm not sure how to do it.
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 04:30:29 am
'Friesden!'
I press against the bars of my cell, trying to look down the corridor at her cell.
"Friesden, can you hear me? Do you remember me? Do you remember anything?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 04:31:52 am
One of the ponies is shouting. I can't even discern the words anymore.
Who am I? Why can I write? Why do I have this book?
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 04:32:21 am
"Khenal, do you want something?"
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 04:41:05 am
'Please be alright, Friesden. Please be free of the memory eater. Please.'
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 04:41:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 04:42:22 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 04:42:58 am
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 04:50:22 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 07:23:38 am
(I HIGHLY SUGGEST YOU TURN DOWN YOUR VOLUME!)
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 11:28:40 am
Otik and her squad turn to leave. She turns back to Starkey.
"Cap'n, one las' time... are ye absolutely certain?"
"Yes, lieutenant, I'm certain. Bring her here."
"Aye sir."
They leave.
"Alright doctor, what's happened? Has it taken him? Is he winning?"
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 04:19:17 pm
"Commander Starkey! How goes the search for the rest of the guard?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 04:22:23 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 04:27:35 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 04:31:59 pm
Carrot notices a bronze axe on the weapon rack next to his. If he stretches, he might be able to reach it.
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 04:40:28 pm
I stretch and grab the axe with my teeth and use it to slice the ropes. I then dash to the cell block, ready to speak a few choice words to the lieutenant.
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 04:43:24 pm
*******
I honestly have no idea how many are in the guard, though I've been running on the assumption that it's a full ten, including Khenal. Unless King Strongbeard posts otherwise, lets roll with ten.
Edit, Hey, look, corrections!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 04:43:56 pm
"I have four of them here. How many more do you have?"(To answer this question, out of character, the Fortress Guard has 8 memebers total, including Captain Khenal. Also, the melee squad has 9 (it was ten) and the pegasan markspony squad has 8. It did have more before the last ambush.)
Edit: Just noticed, some bad news for Thundersplinter. Our Bonesetter and suturer, doctor Alen, is one of the prisoners. Doctor Bubbles will have to fix Thunder up with his zero skill bone setting instead. Ouch.
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 04:58:23 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 05:01:30 pm
How is that bad? Bone setting doesn't require skill to prevent infections.Did not realize that. What about suturing? Bubbles also doesn't have that skill and the two ponies that do are imprisoned.
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 05:06:51 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 05:56:33 pm
Charity is awakened by a light knocking on her door, accompanied by the singsong voice of Lieutenant Otik.
"Wake up, lil' sleepy-head!"
This is immediately followed by the sound of her bedroom door being bucked off its hinges. The countess finds herself staring down three crossbows at three very, very unhappy pegasi.
((Too far? Just right?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 06:01:11 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 09, 2011, 06:09:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 06:20:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 07:27:37 pm
"Yer gonna have t' come with us, ma'am."
- - - - Elsewhere - - - -
Passing the time, Starkey sits down in front of Friesden's cell. He smiles warmly at her.
"Hello, Miss Friesden. You... look like you're feeling better. How are you?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 07:31:06 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 07:31:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 07:43:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 08:12:19 pm
"Miss Friesden?"
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 08:14:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 08:26:16 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 08:37:00 pm
Seeing the lieutenant leading Charity away, I charge at her, still holding the axe.(Charges the lieutenant or Charity?)
Seeing the charging Carrot, with a bronze battle axe in his mouth, Charity, dives behind one of the marksponies. And screams.
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 08:44:27 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 08:49:19 pm
"Head on commander, I'll handle this one!"
- - - - - -
Friesden's behavior is very distressing to Starkey. He rises.
"Khenal, do you still have your keys?"
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 08:50:30 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 09:06:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 09:08:51 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 09:15:03 pm
Charity swings her improvised weapon again, trying to hit the well trained and quick pegasi militia.
"Cryptson! Get your pick!" Calls the countess back into her room.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 09:28:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 09:36:43 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 09:45:00 pm
(I hate to take over a claimed pony, but the guy who claimed Cryptson has never posted anything since so I'm going to anyway.)
From the door way a hulking mass of muscles and fat comes forth, it is the Legendary Miner Cryptson, followed by his faithful pet cat Rorul. The blue earthpony holds a solid steel pick in his mouth. He surveys the situation. His eyes find his wife's body, collapsed upon the floor. His eyes move to the pony standing over her, murder in his eyes. Cryptson has become enraged!
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 09:48:53 pm
"I'LL KILL ALL OF YOU TRAITORS!!!!" I scream at the top of my lungs, attacking the other two marks-ponies.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 10:02:02 pm
"Actually, forget about the keys, Khenal."
He bolts out the door, following the sounds of combat.
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 10:10:40 pm
With the deed done, Psycho comes out of the trance. Suffice to say, he didn't take what he saw very well.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 10:25:47 pm
Approaching the scene, Starkey skids to a halt as a wooden door and a certain pegasus mare come hurtling into view shortly before slammng into the wall. Otik tries in vain to stand, before collapsing in a heap on the floor. He turns, galloping back towards the barracks. Starkey bursts through the door.
"Everypony up! Come on, we have a situation, move your flanks!"
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 10:30:57 pm
"I wish I had my keys, or at least knew where they were so I could teleport them here like my book. I hope everypony is alright..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 10:35:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 10:40:50 pm
I guard Charity unconscious body, ready to fight off anyone that tries to hurt her.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 10:49:26 pm
"Yield. We have you surrounded."
((StrongBeard/anyone with a pony in the military: do we have any dissenters? Are there any soldiers who would refuse to participate in what happens next (or what they Think is going to happen next) ?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 10:56:40 pm
((StrongBeard/anyone with a pony in the military: do we have any dissenters? Are there any soldiers who would refuse to participate in what happens next (or what they Think is going to happen next) ?))
(I don't think so, the only named ponies in the military are Starkey, Carrot, and Peytrel. And the others if they believed that Charity ordered the execution of Bokbon then they would probably follow Starkey. The guard might try to protect her but you already rounded most of them up.)
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 10:59:34 pm
"Ponies, listen to me! You've been tricked! The three soldiers I fought off were trying to nab Charity! Charity would never want to execute those innocent ponies! I am protecting her! She and I are not the enemy here! Captain Starkey is! Only Starkey would have the authority to form such an elaborate coup! Only Starkey could've killed them! He's lying when he says he misses those ponies! If you want to arrest me, FORGET IT! If you want to kill me, TRY! If you want to help me, PLEASE DO! THE CHOICE IS YOURS! I WILL NOT GO DOWN WITHOUT A FIGHT! GOT THAT?!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 11:03:07 pm
The trapped daemon has given up his resistance, at least for the moment.
She drags out a pack of what would appear to be popcorn, but which are clearly other memories.
"Mmmm!" he says in a delighted voice. "I can't wait to see how many blows it takes them to kill her. It's going to be just delicious!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 11:04:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 11:06:56 pm
"To the bitter end."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Byfjv2REks8&feature=related
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 11:11:53 pm
I snatch the memories from Schmoe
'And those are mine! ...I think? No matter, time to tighten your restraints I see.'
Several chains appear to further bind the demon, or at least this fragment of it.
"I wish I had that adamantine dagger..."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 11:13:59 pm
"Lay down that weapon, seargent. I'm not here to fight you."
He turns his gaze to Cryptson.
"Any of you."
((Did Bokbon have any significant relationships before she was executed?))
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 11:18:21 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 11:19:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 11:23:49 pm
"Oh, you! You're almost as fun as Friesden!" she says, laughing. "She tried to keep me locked up, too. But it turned her. She started off your typical Ingest worshipper...but soon she was mine. My playtoy. But she got boring, in the end. No matter how many times she tried to remember the symbols that unicorn friend of yours taught her, she never could. But the bitch couldn't force me out, either. I had to try and get out any way I could. It was a tomb. Not forever, of course, but for her lifetime. And the memories I would accrue. No, it was you who helped me that day, Khenal." He laughs again. "I'm now more free than ever, and free to remind you of your failures. Do try the popcorn, by the way. I don't doubt you'd love to see that unicorn again."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 11:27:31 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 11:27:31 pm
((What will commander Starkey do?))
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 11:34:42 pm
'I will see to it you never harm another pony ever, even if I have to seal myself in an adamantine coffin and be cast into the magma sea!'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 09, 2011, 11:35:48 pm
At this Charity begins to stir on the ground, but she isn't quite awake yet.
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 11:36:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 11:38:55 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 11:39:15 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 09, 2011, 11:44:01 pm
The chains finish muzzling the memory eater, silencing it for now. I carefully examine the bag of "popcorn", hoping to gain insight into what the memories might contain.
Post by: The Master on November 09, 2011, 11:45:50 pm
Psycho then wishes that Khenal were here, realizing that he's truly the best friend he ever made. He decides to attempt to barrel through the line of shields, hoping to find the cells.
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 11:47:01 pm
The daemon was pretending.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 09, 2011, 11:50:43 pm
"No, Mister Cryptson. Stormtroopers burn down a schoolhouse full of students because they suspect it might be a supply cache for political dissidents. It wasn't. I went back to check the next day. Stormtroopers have their way with a single mother, barely even a woman herself, whose only crime was that she spoke ill of a duke's grandson."
He strides confidently towards Cryptson and Charity, his voice taking on a tone of contempt and disgust.
"Stormtroopers flog a defenseless mare to death in broad daylight, because their leader lost a few of her pretty baubles."
Post by: Dsarker on November 09, 2011, 11:54:07 pm
Hmmm. Well. So it goes. I'm guessing so.
If only we were Friesden.
Friesden's new diary.
Ponies have been shouting at me all day. I try to ignore them, but they hurt. I can't bear their touch. Please, whatever there is out there, let it stop!
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 12:00:17 am
'You are a sneaky one, Schmoe.'
I place a memory seal on the popcorn, hoping that sealing the memories will weaken the memory eater and grant me more time to deal with the fiend properly.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 12:02:22 am
Chairty's eyes open, her head is throbbing, she can't quite remember why she's on the floor, until she looks around and sees the scene in front of her.
"C...Commander? What? What is going on? Otik hit me and..." Charity's line of thought is lost, before, "You! You are behind this. Why Starkey!? Is this all just to grab some power for yourself? You, who couldn't even make it
Edit: Corrections
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 12:03:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 12:07:17 am
"Oh, she wouldn't would she? Why don't you tell him yourself, countess? Tell him about your precious amulets."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 12:08:45 am
I make it to the cells and yell, "Khenal! Where are you?"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 12:13:29 am
In my cell, my eyes open and take a few moments to focus again.
"...Being in a cell is really boring, wow."
I prick up my ears, listening for the sounds of fighting.
"No more fighting, at least. I really hope that's a good thing. Huh, Carrot?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 12:15:53 am
(Charity thinks she's telling the truth. Earlier it was said that Friesden, [the deamon inside her actually] had caused the beatings to be to death. Charity ordered floggings, not executions, although only Khenal would know what she asked for, as she would have passed the order through him.")
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 12:17:27 am
"By Celestia's mane, you're ok! You have no idea what I've been through!"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 12:21:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 12:22:32 am
"You clopping liar! My Bokbon is dead! you murdered her, you bitch!"
Waves of anger ripple through the assembled ranks. Starkey raises a hoof.
"SIIIII-LENCE!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 12:25:38 am
"Starkey's turned on us! He sent the whole militia after Celestia! He had his men literally knock down her door! I protected her until her husband arrived on the scene! Then I realized that I needed your help, so I had to charge through the entire militia-filled hallway to get here!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 12:27:22 am
"Bokbon...Murdered...What what has happened?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 12:27:45 am
"Now, if I could have that popcorn back, I'm hoping to get a front seat view to the chaos. Come on! Let's see how you settle the situation!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 12:30:06 am
"Khenal, you're not yourself! I know you're in jail, but something much more horrible must be bothering you if you have that kind of look! You look like you've been to hell and back!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 12:32:17 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 12:33:54 am
"Uh...what? Starkey has been helping me round up the guard to make sure that memory eater's influence didn't get extended too far. It's not surprising that he'd go to arrest Charity as well, the daemon may have gotten to her."
"Wait, literally knocked her door down? Uh-oh. Bokbon was part of the militia, and the militia would have been sent to arrest her! If the ponies sent were his friends..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 12:41:38 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 12:43:21 am
All of a sudden I sputter and say, "MEMORY EATER?! WHAT'RE YOU TALKING ABOUT?!"
((I was still tied to the weapon racks during the whole changing hosts scene))
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 12:50:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 12:55:57 am
I look Carrot in the eyes.
"You are one of my friends and I would like you to read it as well, Carrot. My story is a bit...complicated, and I'd quickly loose my voice repeating it to everypony who deserves to know. And I hope you will still be my friend after you read it."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 01:02:11 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 01:06:15 am
"...Why were you tied to a weapon rack?"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 01:13:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 01:15:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 01:20:56 am
"You really need to learn to get your temper under control, Carrot. The lieutenant isn't an enemy, and you know it. You're a great friend, but your temper gets you into serious trouble sometimes, and I don't like seeing my friends in trouble."
I give him a gentle smile to assure him there's no malice in my words.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 01:22:50 am
(Tonight's been awesome guys but I have got to get some sleep.)
(In other news last I looked we had 5 votes for the Hall of Legends, and that's great. I haven't voted because I started the thread and it would feel like voting for myself, but hey, if anyone out there is reading this and hasn't voted yet, please consider doing so.)
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 01:29:43 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 01:38:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 01:45:27 am
"Khenal." he says again, more urgently.
"KHENAL!" the daemons is basically shouting now.
"I didn't drink him. Somedaemon else did."
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 01:59:39 am
'Unless you can tell me who did, or how to fix him, I don't particularly care!'
*********
Somedaemon
This, this right here? This made me laugh out loud. You are awesome :D
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:09:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 02:09:22 am
********
I try :P
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 02:17:15 am
I let out a heavy sigh and slump a bit.
"Even bound, daemons seem unable to be quiet..."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:30:54 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 02:34:31 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:38:11 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 10, 2011, 02:42:19 am
{After seeing Bubbles try to thread a hawser into a crochet needle, ThunderSplinter begins writing}
This is the last will and testament of ThunderSplinter, being of sound mind and .... well mind anyway. {Another glare at Bubble when he drops the needle} It seems my time is up and I need to put my affairs in order.
To Khenal, I bequeath my family's heirloom ☼chisel☼ and *mallet*, hoping that he honours them with honest, hard work.
To Friesden, I hope she accepts my ☼bed☼ for her comfort and ☼lapping stone☼ to keep her scalpels sharp.
{There is a disturbance and ThunderSplinter sighs as Bubbles attends to a filly with an ingrown eyelash, anything to put off the moment when her life is in his hooves}
There is not much left to show for my life, most of my possessions were left behind when I was exiled. My word and work speak for me, and in that, I leave Charity an apology - when filling in for a sick hauler and taking that bin to the depot, I did not realise that it contained contraband. And now, Bubbles is waiting for me to finish this entry so he can start to operate, I pray that I survive the operation as well as I have survived the injuries thus far.
ThunderSplinter.
Final instructions - keep this document in the bookkeeper's office to be executed in the event of my passing.
{OOC - the s-caps were great, KingStrongbeard, It's nice to have some sort of perspective of where things are happening.
Darkening Kaos cancels lurking - interupted by avalanche of posts
Keep up the entertaining read, guys}
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:45:14 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 02:47:13 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 02:48:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 02:52:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:55:54 am
"Anyway...I'm fine. Just don't forget to honor. RAH! why do I keep saying that?!"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 02:58:31 am
"Uh, maybe you should go lay down, Carrot. And apologize to the lieutenant for, um, knocking her out with a door?"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:59:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:02:40 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:07:02 am
"I can hear you, and he's right. Honor. Oh, did I mention that all the sharp objects in the hospital have honor on them now?"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 03:10:40 am
'Huh, you actually sound scared, Schmoe. And wouldn't my death get you your freedom?'
I then notice Carrot's expression change.
"Uh..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:11:34 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 03:15:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:16:37 am
I speak to khenal in a mocking tone "Now, Schmoe, you sound so scared. What ever happened to Mr. 'I can posses multiple bodies at once!'? Aww, you poor thing. I can tell you still have the strength to control this pathetic pony. So, do it."
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 03:18:55 am
My horn glows brightly as I hold my cell door closed with all my strength.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:20:26 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:21:07 am
"Why, the fun hasn't even started yet! Schmoe, come on out of that pathetic wretch. I know you can hear me."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 03:23:15 am
"Hullo? I heard a shout, is something the matter?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:23:32 am
Friesden. Read this and do exactly as I tell you.
We are under attack by a daemon. If you write these words on your body, it will let me in, but not him. Got it?
Write these words: Unum Est Optimum Eudaemonium.
Now, Friesden. Not much time.
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 03:26:23 am
My horn takes on a more subdued glow, the glow of mental magics. Ethereal chains spring from the floor to bind Carrot, or more precicely, to bind the daemon controlling him.
"Carrot, can you hear me? I can only do so much from here! You need to fight it also!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:29:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:30:27 am
((Yes, me bad pony))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 03:40:50 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:43:40 am
Seeing the strange ghostly chains, the soldier calls out down the hallway. In short order, several armored soldiers are barreling down the hallway towards Carrot.((Keyword, mental. Mind. Inside-of-your-head.))
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 03:47:14 am
I recall Carrot's condition.
'...Oh.'
My magic falters for a moment, before flaring up with renewed vigor. More and more ethereal chains stretch from the walls, ceiling and floor of the jail. They quickly start wrapping about Carrot's frame.
'I promised to try to fix my mistakes from back then, and there's no time like the present!'
"Carrot, I'm sorry I couldn't save you back then, but I wont fail you a second time!"
*************
Ethereal, the most "real" of the mental magics :p After all, the more senses that are fooled, the harder it is to resist.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:49:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:49:16 am
She strides out on two hooves.
Don't get close to him, ponies. That would be suicide. The words impact in the world, like a crossbow bolt slamming home.
Friesden, say goodbye, if you would.
Her mouth opens, and she says "Iiiiiiiii kkkkkaaaaaannnnnn zzzzzppeeeaaaaakkkk. Gggggoooooooodddddbbbbbbyyyyyyyyyyeeee."
Her forelimbs explode into fire.
Well, my foe. Shall we?
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:52:50 am
"Schmoe...your fired. AHAHAHAHAHAHHA! Oh, laugh a little! Khenal, funny? Little bit? Hm? ANYWAY! YOU'RE ON!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:55:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:56:59 am
Name your first born after me or Friesden, eh?
The possessed mare turns to Carrot.
Relax. I'm not the one expecting to win here. Let's take this outside, shall we?
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 03:57:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 03:58:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 03:59:22 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 04:00:11 am
"Now, what kind of game do you want to play? I prefer hurling each other off a cliff. The one that doesn't die wins."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 04:03:03 am
Fire erupts from Friesden's forelimb and spurts towards the possessed Carrot.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 04:06:25 am
Right into the middle of the bulk of the Glitterglen militia, returning to the barracks after... something.
they are irritated. They are tired. They are armed. And now two daemonically-possessed ponies are battling it out in the hallway and it's blocking them from their beds. you can guess what happens next.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 04:07:04 am
"WELLLLLLLL......................shit."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 04:08:50 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 04:10:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 04:14:59 am
Another ball fo fire appears and the daemon-possessed Friesden sets a wall around the duel.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 10, 2011, 04:16:52 am
1 more vote guys, to the hall of legends!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*I treat to Thundersplinter's wounds, and am relieved to see that he will ((PLEASE!)) survive.*
OMG OMG OMG OMG lol, reply 1000
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 04:18:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 04:20:00 am
"What? You thought that I'd fight? No, no, no, that's my host's j-AH HA!"
Psycho shudders, the daemon hiding back inside.
"Uhhh...Why is there a flaming pony in front of me?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 04:28:39 am
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 04:29:36 am
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 04:30:25 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 02:25:51 pm
After the couple shares a tender moment and comforts their filly, Charity leaves to visit Thundersplinter in the Hospital. While Cryptson tries to fix the artifact door Otik knocked off it's hinges. She arrives shortly after Bubbles finshed "sewing" up the wounds. Charity with tears in her eyes, throws herself at her friend, and through the tears, apologizes again and again, while trying to explain what happened. When Bubbles overhears that she was hit in the head, she will be checked for a concussion, before she heads home. Upon returning home, she lights a candle and starts to write in her journal.
Charity's Journal
I don't know exactly where to start. My family had just turned in for the night, and everything was normal, then in the middle of the night my door was kicked off it's hinges, and Otik, and three memebers of his pegasi squad, crossbows, readied and pointed at me, tried to take me away, and they would have if not for the bravery of
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 02:35:40 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 02:40:14 pm
((if i'm not executed for hurling a door at someone, then thanks for promoting me!))
You threw the door at someone who was threatening the Countess, and proceeded to defend her against a much larger force. If that doesn't get you a medal and a promotion, I don't know what does. Also, all the captains, have 2x3 rooms instead of the 1x3 rooms average recruits and civilians have. Assuming you aren't about to die to whatever deamon craziness is going on. Carrot, and Kil are moving up in the world. Although you may have made an enemy out of Captain Otik, and I have a feeling the Commander doesn't like you, so you'll still have to deal with that.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 03:50:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 04:48:50 pm
While I talk with carrot, the chains continue their job of binding the daemon. With it no longer actively struggling against the binding, the spell seems to be going well and strengthening quickly.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 05:02:41 pm
'You will obey. kill-'
'shut up! This is MY body!'
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 05:06:50 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 05:08:32 pm
\/
'KILL THEM!'
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 05:25:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 05:31:33 pm
'Tasty memories, Psycho.'
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 05:35:27 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 05:42:00 pm
Meanwhile, inside Psycho's head...
Psycho grabs the daemon by the throat, thinking he can suffocate it.
'HAHAHAAHHA! Pathetic! Can I another memory to eat?'
'I may not remember who I am anymore, but I do know that you must leave my body, FOR GOOD!!!!'
'HAH! That's rich!'
and with that, all the chains shatter to mind-dust.
'See? You cannot hope to defeat me. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to eat some more memories.'
Psycho in both his mind, and in the real world, slumps to the ground crying.
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 05:49:02 pm
"C-Carrot! You can't give up! Fighting a daemon is all about will! Remember what you fight for and don't let it go!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 05:51:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 05:53:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 05:58:05 pm
I shakily get to my feet to try to go to Carrot, but fall over after a few steps. Groaning in pain, I extend my hoof towards him.
"Please, Carrot. I don't want to loose my friend..."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:09:14 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 10, 2011, 06:12:02 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 06:14:21 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:16:43 pm
'HEY, PUT ME DOWN!!!! I AM IN CONTROL!!!!' Howls the daemon, causing Psycho's body in the real world to convulse for a moment.
'NO! THIS TIME, YOUR LEAVING FOR GOOD!!!!' screams Psycho, hurling the daemon out of his mind.
"...Khenal...I did it....." Psycho says, before having his eyes roll back into his head. An unholy scream escapes Psycho's mouth, then a blood red smoke pours out him. The smoke begins to rush towards Khenal in desperate revenge.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 06:19:43 pm
What seems like fire made of water surges from Friesden's mouth and surrounds the smoke.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:21:59 pm
What seems like fire made of water surges from Friesden's mouth and surrounds the smoke.(http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2011/309/b/d/the_riddle_by_themaster567-d4f7lrg.png)
((Wow, you practically quoted my riddle on my deviant art account.))
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:29:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 06:34:54 pm
My plan has failed.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 10, 2011, 06:35:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 06:40:30 pm
'Well, one down?'
"Get..out of... Friesden..."
My horn barely flickers as a single chain descends from the ceiling between me and Friesden. It slowly moves towards her to attempt binding the daemon.
"Stop...hurting her..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 06:44:50 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:48:39 pm
"I'm going to save Khenal no matter what! You may have an unholy amount of power, you may have the ability to incinerate everyone in this room in seconds, YOU MAY BE AN UN-KILLABLE FIEND, BUT YOU KNOW WHAT?! I DON'T CARE, BECAUSE I HAVE SOMETHING A BILLION TIMES STRONGER THAN THAT! FRIENDSHIP!" I yell, defiantly.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 06:51:10 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 06:54:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 06:57:05 pm
The chain finally manages a single loop around one of Friesden's forelegs, then starts struggling to wrap it a second time.
*********
And Khenal is still a guy. Why does everypony think he's a she?
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:00:08 pm
And Khenal is still a guy. Why does everypony think he's a she?((I dunno, It might be from your old avatar being twilight sparkle. I'm just guessing.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:00:26 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:03:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:07:09 pm
The chain seems to loose balance and slips off Friesden's leg. I grimace with the effort of trying to make it wrap around her leg again
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:09:44 pm
Did I say kill Friesden or kill me? Just finish it already.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:13:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:16:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:17:44 pm
"No, not...the hospital. I need...to help Friesden..."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:19:51 pm
"If you say so...but you clearly cannot stand on your own. I'm here for you if you need anything!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:21:32 pm
A grin breaks out on Friesden's face.
Or, you might say, that we're kin under the skin, eh? Eh?
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:22:21 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:25:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:26:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:29:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:30:55 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 07:36:05 pm
Khenal notices something out of the corner of his eye. A glimpse of copper feathers, a flash of multicolored mane. He feels a slight tug on the chain in his jaws.
Commander Starkey stands before him. His eyes are bloodshot, his mane is dishevelled - he has obviously been bitterly weeping. Yet now he stands, grinning back at Khenal, teeth clenched around the ethereal chain.
((Too far?))
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:38:00 pm
((I'm taking quite a risk with this post...))((as long as you know that you are burning/burned from the flames surrounding us, it should be fine.))
Khenal notices something out of the corner of his eye. A glimpse of copper feathers, a flash of multicolored mane. He feels a slight tug on the chain in his jaws.
Commander Starkey stands before him. His eyes are bloodshot, his mane is dishevelled - he has obviously been bitterly weeping. Yet now he stands, grinning back at Khenal, teeth clenched around the ethereal chain.
((Too far?))
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:38:15 pm
I then notice Starkey standing beside me, helping take up the slack on the chain.
"I told you already, Schmoe, I don't want anypony to die. Now get out of her!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:39:53 pm
Oh, no, you've got me. I can't remain here, if only Friesden decides to chuck me out. Well, Friesden? I am at your mercy. What is your decision?
Her mouth opens, and Friesden's voice is heard.
"Remain....please."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:41:51 pm
I then hear something that shatters said confidence.
"F-f-friesden?! What's wrong with you?!?!" Psycho says, flabbergasted.
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:42:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:43:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:46:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:47:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:49:10 pm
Kill me, damn you! KILL ME!
Her mouth opens, and she says only three words.
"I....love....him."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:51:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:52:15 pm
Damn you, Khenal! Kill me! Kill me, you bastard! You idiot! KILL ME!
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 07:54:04 pm
"Khernalh. Hyough chnow mingh maghich?"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:55:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:56:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 07:56:46 pm
I spit out the chain and charge Friesden, heedless of the flames around us all.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 07:58:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 07:58:59 pm
"No, please! Leave him alone! I love him! You can't touch him!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:00:54 pm
((this music begins to play as all this happens.))
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:04:32 pm
I summon a shimmering shield about me to protect from the flames. From my blackening wingtips and charring mane and tail, it doesn't look to be doing a very good job.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:05:45 pm
Khenal, please. Give me mercy, please. Just KILL me!
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:07:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:08:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:09:31 pm
I leap at Friesden/Schmoe, using my smoking wings to propel me faster as I try to tackle the flaming pony.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:11:48 pm
KILL ME OR DIE, you heartless bastard!
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:12:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:17:57 pm
My horn flashes as I attempt my sleep spell, hoping to save Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:19:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:20:09 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 08:21:12 pm
"I-I ca... can you link us? Can... you... put me in her head?"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:23:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:28:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:29:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:34:28 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:34:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:36:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:38:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:39:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 08:40:30 pm
Starkey locks eyes with Carrot.
"Quit... quit your blathering... lieutenant. Nopony else... dies tonight."
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 08:43:23 pm
My horn flashes, establishing a bridge between Starkey and Friesden/Schmoe.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:44:06 pm
Stunned, I say, "Sir, yes sir!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:44:31 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 08:48:50 pm
In his mind, the captain smirks.
"I can help you with that. I'm somewhat of an expert when it comes to death, you see."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:51:13 pm
Friesden throws herself in front of the daemon.
"No! You can't! I'll die before you kill him!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 08:53:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 08:54:34 pm
"Let's start simple. Why do you want to die?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 08:56:02 pm
Friesden continues to stand inbetween the two.
"You can't kill him. I won't let you!"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 09:03:07 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:03:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:05:25 pm
Friesden continues to stay inbetween them.
"No. You won't take him. He's mine."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:07:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:09:32 pm
The daemon sighs.
I love her.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:11:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 09:13:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:14:05 pm
He shakes his head.
I saw the creation of the universe. I watched the vasty blackness be changed in the chaos that ensued. I participated in it, too. But not even I can change this form sufficiently to love her back. My plan requires my sacrifice. It must be done.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:18:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:20:36 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 09:22:51 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:27:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:28:21 pm
Friesden is in tears.
"Because...because...I can't stand to lose him. Even for a second."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:32:01 pm
"You just told me she already knew."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:34:53 pm
"Please, stop him, he's mad. Don't take him away from me. Please."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:46:39 pm
"Friesden, listen to me. Schmoe is in pain, he's suffering. You're a doctor. What... what do you do when a pony is suffering, and you cannot make them better?"
He locks eyes with Schmoe, silently making his intent clear.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:54:07 pm
Friesden dissolves into tears.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 09:56:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 09:58:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 10:06:17 pm
"Are you ready?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 10:10:00 pm
In the physical world, a tiny, imperceptible green fog leaves the pegasus' mouth and lays itself on Khenal's face.
One last message is spoken.
See you soon, Khenal, my friend.
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 10:16:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 10:18:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 10:20:09 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 10:25:58 pm
The captain lunges forward, siezing Schmoe by the face. Before his vision descends into blackness, he swears he can see a wicked grin split Starkey's muzzle. They both vanish.
- - - - - -
Schmoe awakens to find himself... lying in a bed? no, a hammock - he can feel it rocking gently. He opens his eyes to see wooden rafters mere feet from his face. Schmoe's exploration is interrupted by a familiar voice.
"Have a nice nap?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 10:28:58 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 10:33:51 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 10:41:01 pm
Looking down, who does Schmoe see but Captain Starkey. 'Captain' indeed: He sits upon a stool, draped head to tail in a royal blue overcoat with brilliant gold epaulets.
"Oh, sorry about the, ah, sparse accomodations. There isn't much free space aboard."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 10:42:28 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 10:51:46 pm
He stands, opening the door and gesturing for Schmoe to follow.
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 10:56:01 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:02:29 pm
8)
Just got a bit weirder. YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 11:02:57 pm
"The bit with Friesden back there was... impressive, to say the least. The daemon and the doctor? positively touching. Perfect in every detail."
He ascends the forecastle, looking out to the horizon.
"Word for word as mother would tell it to my sisters and I before bed every night."
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 11:06:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 11:13:36 pm
Starkey leans on the gunwale, watching the countryside roll by hundreds of feet below.
"And until I do, this is where you will remain. Don't worry, I'll drop by often. This is one of my favorite dreams, after all."
((Starkey dreams of steam-powered sheep.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 11:15:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:17:32 pm
"...Starkey! Come on! ANSWER ME!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 11:19:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 11:21:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 11:22:01 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 10, 2011, 11:25:25 pm
"Oh, sorry to cut our little chat short, but it sounds like I'm needed elsewhere."
Amidships, there is a small dhingy suspended over the portside. The captain climbs in alone.
"Enjoy yourself. I'll be in touch."
He gives the rope a hard tug, and the dhingy descends rapidly out of sight.
Starkey awakes. The first thing he is aware of is the seargent - no, the lieutenant shaking him awake. The second thing he is aware of is that the flames have heated his steel barding to an unbearable level.
"Uh... wha? CarroAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUGH!!"
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:30:22 pm
I hurl Starkey out of the flames and rush over to Khenal and drag him out.
"Khenal...I...I don't think she really had a mind to begin with. maybe...Maybe that's what the daemon gave her. A mind. A soul. Something to talk to. Without it...she's a shell. Khenal, we need to get her to the hospital. I'm sure somepony could help her."
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 11:33:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 10, 2011, 11:39:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:45:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 11:51:23 pm
"No, she never tried to hurt herself until... until after her arrest. She rarely talked to other ponies, but was always so kind and caring for any pony who got hurt."
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:53:29 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 10, 2011, 11:56:38 pm
"Really? Oh, did I tell you that i'm a lieutenant now?!"
Is Psycho psychic? Has it not been only a few minutes, maybe a few hours, since all that went down? Charity only just wrote in her journal that she was going to promote Carrot. How does he already know?
Post by: The Master on November 10, 2011, 11:57:24 pm
"Khenal... we don't... have much more time... put me in Friesden's head!"
Starkey locks eyes with Carrot.
"Quit... quit your blathering... lieutenant. Nopony else... dies tonight."
from the other end of the deck, the ship's bell can be heard tolling.
"Oh, sorry to cut our little chat short, but it sounds like I'm needed elsewhere."
Amidships, there is a small dhingy suspended over the portside. The captain climbs in alone.
"Enjoy yourself. I'll be in touch."
He gives the rope a hard tug, and the dhingy descends rapidly out of sight.
Starkey awakes. The first thing he is aware of is the seargent - no, the lieutenant shaking him awake. The second thing he is aware of is that the flames have heated his steel barding to an unbearable level.
"Uh... wha? CarroAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUGH!!"
Post by: Khenal on November 10, 2011, 11:58:51 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 11, 2011, 12:00:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 12:00:22 am
"Death. Death. Death. Death."
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 12:00:58 am
I then hear the song.
"K-K-KHENAL?"
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 12:02:53 am
Oh, I see. Starkey is the psychic one. Well that makes more sense.((wrong again.))
Starkey staggers behind them. He reaches back and unclasps his breastplate, and it clatters to the floor. This buys him maybe another minute or so.
"I-I ca... can you link us? Can... you... put me in her head?"
"...I hope you know what you're doing, Starkey! And Friesden, I'm sorry if this actually works"
My horn flashes, establishing a bridge between Starkey and Friesden/Schmoe.
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 12:08:10 am
***********
Starkey isn't psychic either. Charity promoted him to captain in her diary, Starkey gave him a field promotion for actually doing things when the rest of his militia stood helpless.
At least, that's what I got out of it.
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 12:09:59 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 12:10:48 am
"...You love her, don't you? The way you risked your life to save her, never giving up, never backing down. That's more than just friendship...isn't it?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 12:12:17 am
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 12:12:42 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 12:14:34 am
((Take it away, Khenal! It's all yours! :D))
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 12:24:09 am
I move to the next closest hospital bed, only dimly aware of my own injuries from the fire, and settle in.
"Goodnight, Friesden."
I turn to Carrot and Starkey, giving a weak smile through my tears.
"Goodnight, my friends."
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 12:26:38 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 12:30:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 12:38:16 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 01:04:28 am
"Get some sleep, Friesden. You're going to need it."
I then head to the barracks to get some shuteye myself. Today was the craziest day yet.
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 01:05:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 01:06:48 am
And do remember about the popcorn.
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 01:10:50 am
Edited, because fire does not equal figure. Not even slightly. Ok, maybe slightly, but that "gu" really changes things!
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 01:12:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 01:13:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 01:17:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 01:20:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 01:27:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 01:57:41 am
There we go!
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 02:09:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 02:11:18 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 02:14:52 am
\/
http://half-life.wikia.com/wiki/Nihilanth
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 02:21:24 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 02:32:38 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 05:08:49 am
THANK YOU FOR NOT BASHING ME INTO THIS LOL!
Anyways,
-------------------------------------------------------
*I leave my office to find Khenal and Friesden laying on the beds in the hospital, both with burn marks.
---------------------------------------------------------
Khenal, are you meaning to imply you want your pony to be in love with Friesden?
Post by: Dsarker on November 11, 2011, 05:29:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 04:38:46 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 11, 2011, 05:15:03 pm
Also I'd like to say that despite the craziness your last bit of excitement was a lot of fun. Extra thanks to The Master for providing an excellent sound track.
Thirdly I won't be online tonight because I get to go GM my GURPS game. So while tying up any loose ends, try not to involve Countess Charity directly. At least not until the end.
Finally, Impending Doom said earlier that their is no death on demand, because of no DF Hack, and that is true because I've never used that program. However, if the majority of you would like it, I could learn the program, and make that an option, still wouldn't allow players to kill each other without the other's consent for obvious reasons. Also, if the program allowed for injuries, to be created, (I don't know if it does) then I could use it for non-lethal or potentially but not defiantly lethal blows that you guys deal in your cooperative story telling. Because right now, in your RP Captain (you guys keep calling him lieutenant IDK why) Otik and 3 of the marks ponies, are injured, and Khenal, Psycho, and Starkey have burns, but there is no way for me to easily represent that in the game. I could stick the pegasi in a spear trap room for a couple of strikes, easily enough, I guess, but I don't think I will, and the burns would be difficult to do without killing them outright. So, I'll be forced to just ignore it and assume that they all recover quickly enough that it doesn't effect them in the game. Which isn't really a problem, but it would be cool if I could somehow represent that in the real game easier.)
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 05:41:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 08:46:57 pm
The next day, I head to visit Khenal and Friesden to see if they're getting better.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 08:49:42 pm
"Ah, hello Carrot. What do you need?"
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 08:51:44 pm
"How are they holding up, doc?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 08:52:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 08:53:04 pm
I am deep in thought when Carrot enters the hospital, not noticing him.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 08:54:51 pm
"Their burns are pretty severe. However, I believe they can heal over time."
((Btw, http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/576522
I'm sure you guys will understand....))
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 08:59:20 pm
"Huh? Oh, Dr. Bubbles. How are you?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 09:00:14 pm
((FIXED!))
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 09:02:51 pm
"Khenal!" I say, rushing up to him. "Are you feeling better?"
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 09:04:39 pm
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 09:08:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 09:17:04 pm
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 09:27:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 09:36:45 pm
*********
I love that song, Johnathon Coulton is awesome.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 09:39:10 pm
"Yes Khenal. It certainly explains a lot."
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 09:44:01 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 09:56:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 10:03:06 pm
"I hope everypony else is as forgiving as you and Carrot."
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 10:11:36 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 10:22:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 10:28:11 pm
What seems like fire made of water surges from Friesden's mouth and surrounds the smoke.
I look up at Carrot and Bubbles, then slowly turn to look at Friesden.
"Medicine? Oh, right: burns."
I drink the flask and grimace at the aftertaste.
"I don't know what exactly this note means, but I have a few suspicions, Carrot. I'll look into them once I'm back on my hooves. Do you have any idea what it means?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 10:33:05 pm
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:03:38 pm
"Hmmm...I know that it must have something to do with something lost in watery fire...but that's all I- OH! THAT'S IT! It's the red mist!"
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:06:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 11:09:39 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 11:13:48 pm
"If you feel pain, drink from this vial. It's a strong sleep potion."
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:13:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 11, 2011, 11:26:04 pm
I glance at the vial of sleep potion from Bubbles.
"Thanks, but I don't think I'll need any help sleeping." I barely manage to say around a yawn, then smile at my friends. "Thanks for the visit, Carrot, but I'm really tired. Could you come back tomorrow after your shift?"
My eyelids droop as I lay my head on my pillow. I murmur "Maybe I'll have a less dangerous idea about the note then..."
************
You two feel free to do stuff still. Khenal, though, needs some recuperation before he gets up to any more shenanigans ;)
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:30:18 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 11:46:45 pm
((Man, this is becoming more of a RP thread than a community fort.))
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:56:43 pm
The doc and I head to the area where the "great battle" yesterday was fought.
"Doctor bubbles, this is where the whole battle happened...Many could have lost their lives If it weren't for the commander. I don't know what he did exactly," Dramatic look to the ceiling ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECjDfQd8QVc ) "But I don't care! He saved us all from a fiery death! I...I owe him my life, and I think Khenal and friesden do too. Starkey is... well, brilliant!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 11, 2011, 11:57:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 11, 2011, 11:59:45 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 12:00:17 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 12:05:30 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 12:06:37 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 12:07:22 am
((YOU'RE KILLING ME HERE!!!!!))
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 12:08:46 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 12:11:17 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 12:11:59 am
*Confused, I go back in my office and get to work*
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 12:32:55 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 12:44:47 am
"Well, I have some work to be done. And I need to make sure Friesden is okay._____((What's missing from the sentence...))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 12, 2011, 12:45:01 am
"Dunnae bother. I've tried talkin' to 'im."
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 12:45:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:00:34 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 01:06:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:10:30 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 01:34:44 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 01:36:11 am
*I exit the office to check on Friesden... and see a bloody scalpel
((Heh...Narwhals are awesome.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:37:14 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 01:38:10 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 01:39:08 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 01:39:28 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 12, 2011, 01:44:11 am
"Say, Carrot. How did ye get sent here?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:45:29 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
See the guy on the left?
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 01:45:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:47:59 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 01:48:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:49:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 12, 2011, 01:56:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 01:59:14 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 02:03:11 am
Otik stares long and hard at Carrot. He can't be serious. This dipshit committed the crime of the century? The one every crier on every street corner screamed himself hoarse about for a full month?((Ok, it's official, I died of laughter.))
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 02:04:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 02:09:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 12, 2011, 02:17:19 am
She sits up in bed, looking towards the doorway.
"Say, has th' cap'n told you anythin' 'bout how he got here?"
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 03:09:58 am
"Come to think of it...no! Wonder why? Oh...and sorry for throwing a door at you..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:17:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 12, 2011, 03:28:15 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:29:43 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 03:31:00 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:31:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:32:20 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:32:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:34:26 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:35:31 am
"Friesden? Is there something wrong?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:38:01 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:39:07 am
"FRIESDEN!"
*Quickly, I try to get her to stop so I can stop the bleeding,*
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:40:30 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:41:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:42:39 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:43:39 am
*I drip a little of the sleep drug into Friesden's mouth, knocking her out.*
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:45:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:46:52 am
*I chuckle to myself and bandage Friesden's wound, and afterwards suspend her in a traction bench so she can't reopen it.*
Post by: Dsarker on November 12, 2011, 03:51:06 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 12, 2011, 03:51:40 am
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 11:39:00 am
8)
Are going to the hall of legends http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR3jnW2kcUs ))
Post by: The Master on November 12, 2011, 10:28:04 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 12:20:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 01:58:38 am
*************
The hold up is that today was my day for gaming at my friend's house :P
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:04:09 am
"Khenal, how are you holding-" I glance at Friesden's bed and see blood stains but no Friesden.
"KHENAL! FRIESDEN IS GONE!" Not noticing that Friesden is strapped to a traction bench.
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:07:30 am
"WHAT?! ...What? She's right there." I point at the traction bench.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:09:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:10:39 am
While the others were out of the room, Friesden got up. There, right where she knew it would be, was a scalpel. This would be hard to do, but it felt right. She carefully used her hooves to hold the scalpel steady, and stuck out her tongue. She laid it on the bench top, and carefully manuevered the scalpel up above, and slammed it down, cutting into the tongue. She dragged it through, cutting the tongue in half. She dropped the scalpel and headed back to the bed when she heard somepony coming.((Just in case you didn't read this))
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:16:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 02:27:36 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:31:54 am
"And she's been making weird sounds, like a newborn foal figuring out her mouth. I'm worried about her."
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 02:33:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:38:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 02:39:39 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:51:20 am
I get a closer look at Friesden's mouth, ignoring what I take to simply be Carrot either overreacting again or playing another joke. I go pale when I realize why he's screaming.
"Oh..."
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:55:35 am
"...I found the likely culprit...I feel faint..." Psycho says before vomiting up his entire lunch.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 13, 2011, 02:55:56 am
Charity's Journal the day after the most recent daemon battle
I've been informed that in the hours after Otik tried to arrest me, that there was a fire raging in the food stockpile outside the barracks. I don't know the details, but the tales they are spinning in the dinning room are truly fantastical. Stories of demons fighting, walls of fire, Khenal, Starkey, and Carrot, running into the fire to save Friesden, claims that Friesden started the fires, ghostly chains, and mental magics, I honestly don't know what's truth and what's fiction at this point.
Charity's Journal 19th Slate 98
Today, we had a ceremony in the lower dinning hall, honoring Psycho Carrot, for the bravery and loyalty he showed to me several nights ago. He has been awarded the adamantine earring, The Magicians of Violence, forged by the possessed pony Katak Duralertong, and was officially promoted to Captain. I'm dividing Otiks squad in half, one half will remain under Otik, and is made up of Otik and the ponies that broke down my door. Captain Carrot will lead those that did not take part in that, event.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/The%20Magicians%20of%20Violence.png)
14th Felsite 98
Cindersparks was heading up to the surface earlier but when she opened the door a pair of Parasprites tried to attack her, they got a few good bites in on her wings but she fought them off.
15th Felsite 98
Thundersplinter is still in the hospital, Doctor Bubbles has been doing his best, but well, she's developed an infection all up and down her right rear leg. I later found out that the "thread" the Doctor used was actually diomedian pony hair. I bet that had something to do with it. Disgusting. I hope Thunder is strong enough to fight off the sickness.
18th Felsite 98
I had my fourth foal this morning. An aquamarine peasus filly, with beautiful copper eyes. We've decided to name her Skydancer. I was surprised to see that she was a pegasus, I didn't think Cryptson or me had any pegasan blood in us. Or maybe that's just a side effect of unicorns mating with earthponies? I don't really know.
22nd Felsite 98
Psycho Carrot and Kil have finally moved into their new room. I had it place directly across the hall from mine, a mere two steps from the dinning hall. Inside is a pair of masterwork beds, a stone chest and cabinet, and a statue of myself. Additionally the whole place has been engraved by our numerous artists. It's twice the size of their old place I hope they enjoy it.
Additionally, with Doctor Alen in prison, and Friesden, in her state of mind. Doctor Bubbles has been in need of an assistant. And he's hired on Carrot's wife Kil as a Nurse. She won't actually be working on any ponies directly, but will be helping bring food and water to the patients, and the prisoners in the cell block.
(Prisoners were getting thirsty, Bubbles has been to busy working on Thunder to bring them water, and while I have drink stockpiles set up in the cells, to take drinks from the main pile near the stills, and have nearly 500 drinks, the barrels still remain dry. Thus I'm making Kil a full time Nurse. She will have zero responsibilities other than Cleaning, Recovering wounded, and Feeding/watering patients/prisoners.)
2nd Hematite 98
We had a few ponies attacked, by parasprites, while building the next floor of the wooden tower. I'm sending out Starkey and Khenal's squads to chase them away. While Captain Psycho and Otik watch the cavern entrance together.
4th Hematite 98
I tried to teach Cobalt to channel some simple magic earlier. He took to it well, and was able to cast the simple spells I had him channel decently, but not perfectly, though better than I could at that age. He grew impatient when I wouldn't let him move on to more advanced spells, but I explained that magic is an art that require a lot of practice and dedication to get anywhere with. I think he understood.
Later I went to have a talk with Venture. The filly's fifth birthday is coming up this year, and I want to help her get an apprenticeship with one of our craftsponies. She doesn't seem to know what she wants to do yet. I suggested she shadow a few of the older ponies to get a feel for what she would like to do.
And finally, Thunder was released from the hospital today. She, won't be able to walk without a crutch, though. I showed up to see Nurse Kil trying to teach her how to get around with one. As soon as she got the hang of it though she went right back to the carpentry shops and got back to work.
17th Hematite 98
Katak has been complaining to me about being, "just a hauler", before being sent to Glitterglen he was a promising metal crafter, but we can't spare the metal for him to practice with here. I've decided to allow him to begin training under Grifen as a new miner. Cryptson, doesn't work as much now that he's married to a countess, so Grif could use the extra help.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Bubel%20party.png)
26th Hematite 98
We had another accident today. While working on the showers for the cavern entrance, the decision was made to tap into the hospital's reservoir for water. The planned path would have the water, flow down, into the caverns, through Khenal's office, (also giving him a nice private shower/waterfall), eventually draining into the underground lake.
However, we underestimated the water pressure, and when Cryptson breached the last foot of stone, he was immediately submerged. He nearly drowned, but managed to climb out. The water, did not fall, but blasted into the caverns, catching some of the marksponies by surprise and washing them down the hill. Some water blasted down into Khenal's office and flooded it. More started flooding another floor that was intended to have a waterfall in it, this water flowed down to the magma forge area.
Fortunately nopony was hurt. The water was pressurized but there was a limited quantity of it, and once Cryptson got out, we were able to flip the emergency shut off lever. Stopping the last of the water before it could make the situation worse. Once the water dries out a little, we'll begin working on getting the shower working without this happening again.
If you guys want to finish the scene you're currently doing, just consider this to be what happens in the days following it, and don't feel like I'm necessarily cutting you off, just try not to burn down the fortress, okay.
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 02:57:59 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:13:54 am
I get a determined look in my eyes look at Carrot.
"Carrot, put that scalpel back where you found it! Actually, give it to me, you get a bucket and mop to clean that up. I appreciate you visiting, but don't interfere with the healing process! Injuring Friesden helps nopony, and I'd like to get better as soon as possible and get back to helping Friesden and Glitter Glen!"
I compose myself a bit after yelling at Carrot.
"I'm sorry Carrot, I'm just a bit restless here in the hospital. I really do want to get better quickly and get out of the hospital, and I really do appreciate your visits."
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:15:13 am
Frieden starts coughing.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:17:12 am
((Carrot despises cleaning and getting yelled at.))
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:18:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:19:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:20:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:22:51 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 13, 2011, 03:27:27 am
*I leave my office AGAIN to find a pool of blood, Friesden, and Khenal.... and a ripped bandage.*
"Khenal...? Whats happening?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:29:00 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:29:19 am
I go try to find a bucket and a towel to clean the floor and my face, respectively.
'Well, I think she recognizes me. That's a start at least...'
**********
I'll go ahead and cut my participation in this scene as well. Khenal needs to be at full strength before he looks at the popcorn.
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:33:09 am
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:34:50 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:36:57 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 13, 2011, 03:49:55 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:53:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:03:13 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 04:08:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:51:52 am
When the recoverer opened to the first page, it said in red (ink?) "Friesden's Diary".
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 13, 2011, 05:22:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 05:27:46 am
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 12:26:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 12:37:10 pm
'I wish I had my books, or at least new ones. Anything that might give me a better idea of what to expect from these memories. I swear, that office is cursed. First the ceiling collapses, then it gets flooded?'
*****************
Friesden's Diary is mostly in ink, her new diary is mostly in blood. I think. By now, everypony who should have read Khenal's book will have, and it's back in my room. I don't think anyone has anything weird planned with my book, but just incase anyone needs to know where it is.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 01:10:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 01:42:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 01:52:15 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 01:56:01 pm
I get up and answer the door, surprised to find what appears to be a massive pile of books with four legs and Carrot's head.
"Oh, hey Carrot. Come in, wont you?"
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 01:58:49 pm
"Mmime mokee"(i'm ok!) I mumble.
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:01:01 pm
"Are you alright? What's with all the books?"
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:03:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:06:00 pm
I give him a grateful smile before turning to see just what kinds of books he's managed to obtain.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:15:47 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:19:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:23:31 pm
"That's quite the collection, Carrot. Thank you!
My wonder turns to slight confusion. "Where did you get all these? It took me almost a year to get this many books from the caravans."
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:30:02 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:44:32 pm
"Thank you, Carrot. This means a lot to me. Let me give you something in return."
I walk over to my bed and pull a bag out from under it. I give it to Carrot, and look at the floor.
"It's not as thought-out as your gift, but I'd still like you to have these bits. I was planning on buying books with them, but now it seems I wont have to. And I don't know if I can accept all these books if it means you have to go without some of your own things."
*****************
Get out of my head, Master. That dagger works perfectly with something I've been cooking up.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 02:49:31 pm
I shake my head and smile. "With all the damage to your office, you're going to need it to pay for repairs." Psycho says and turns to leave.
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 02:57:45 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:09:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:21:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:30:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:32:21 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:32:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:34:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:34:41 pm
I cautiously approach the unicorn, ready to try a fresh memory seal if it seems hostile.
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:34:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:36:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:41:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:45:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:51:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 03:56:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 03:57:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 03:59:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 04:05:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:10:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 04:12:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 04:13:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:20:01 pm
The unicorn smiles. "Anything else?"
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 04:25:28 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 04:26:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:31:09 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 04:36:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 04:41:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 04:52:22 pm
I open my eyes.
"I need to talk to Commander Starkey."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 08:14:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 08:35:25 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 08:43:33 pm
"Oh, hullo Cap'n. Aye, he's in there,
((EDIT: Don't want to sound like I'm discouraging RP.))
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 09:00:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 09:04:45 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 09:06:40 pm
((http://wiki.teamfortress.com/w/images/2/21/Announcer_am_lastmanforfeit04.wav (http://wiki.teamfortress.com/w/images/2/21/Announcer_am_lastmanforfeit04.wav)))
"He... well... after the little standoff with th' countess, I think somethin'... broke inside 'im. He ordered th' whole militia back to th' barracks, and when they were all gone, he just... broke down, bawlin' like a little foal. Since then he jus'... hasn't been th' same. He takes 'is meals in 'is office, an' he hardly says a word t' anypony that en't an order. I know somethin's really wrong with 'im, I just dunnae know what."
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 09:20:30 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 09:26:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 09:28:58 pm
"Starkey, hello? I'd like to talk to you if you have some time."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 09:36:25 pm
"Who is - oh... hello Khenal."
He gives Khenal a half-hearted smile.
"I... have plenty of time. What is it?"
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 09:40:18 pm
"What's this about Starkey losing it?" Scaring the daylights out of Khenal.
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 09:44:15 pm
I give Carrot an annoyed look, before relaxing and holding the door for him with my magic as I walk closer to Starkey.
"How are you doing, Starkey?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 09:45:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 09:47:40 pm
"Feeling better, sir?"
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 09:52:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 10:12:46 pm
Another smile, this one warmer and far more sincere.
"But I get the impression you won't be taking 'no' for an answer. Have a seat."
There is one chair by the desk. Starkey offers it to Khenal, taking a seat on the bed.
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 10:14:45 pm
"Thank you, Starkey."
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 11:07:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 11:13:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 13, 2011, 11:16:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 13, 2011, 11:19:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 13, 2011, 11:21:41 pm
Post by: The Master on November 13, 2011, 11:25:53 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 12:24:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 12:35:12 am
((I'm explaining some of Starkey's backstory. I'm trying to work out the last little bit, the part where he actually gets banished. Once I get that, it'll be done.))
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 12:44:09 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 01:57:53 am
"I joined the guard the day I came of age. As long as I can remember, it had been my dream: to protect the weak, stand up for the innocent, and bring justice to the wicked. What I found... couldn't have been any more different. It was alright, at first: petty theft, public disturbances. Once I was even assigned security detail for one of the queen's speeches."
"Then came... the initiations. We were told one morning that the local prison was overcrowded, and they instructed us to..."
He pauses for a moment, unable to continue.
"... to issue beatings on the spot. I went along, good little soldier that I was. I would give them a few good whacks on the rump, like my mother used to do. Imagine my horror when I saw what some of the other recruits had done. Even still, I continued, but I think they suspected my heart wasn't in it. Nothing was ever said, but... certain others seemed to rise in the ranks far more quickly than I, for reasons that were never made entirely clear."
"When you got high enough, they started to trust you more. I would... hear things, that had happened in other prefectures. Over on the south side, a markspony squad opened fire into a crowd of demonstrators. To the east, one precinct over, a little filly of no more than four was hanged for stealing a loaf of bread. I was horrified, of course: how could anypony who had sworn our oath use their power to do such heinous things? But... I was naive as well. 'That sort of thing only happens over there, it could never happen here,' you know the feeling?"
"Goddess I was so naive..."
He must pause again.
"I had been in for about four years, when they woke us all early in the morning. For the past couple months or so, we had been dealing with a particularly nasty ring of rebels. The queen herself was supposed to make an appearance later that week, and there were reports that they were planning an assassination. They told us there had been a big break, that they had located the rebel's supply cache somewhere within the city. So, we all geared up and went out to the site. I was placed on overwatch, scanning the rooftops from on high. I saw the target building: a small schoolhouse, not unlike the one I went to as a colt. I was... angry. Cowards, hiding behind innocent foals while they plotted their evil deeds? The captain took his lieutenants into the building. They weren't long. He came out, and started giving out orders - I couldn't hear what he was saying from so high up. Then they.. they barred the doors, and... somepony brought out torches and..."
Starkey says nothing for a long time, overcome with emotion. At length, he continues.
"Even from so high, I could hear the foals screaming - oh goddess the screaming. i wanted to do something, to swoop in and fling the doors open and..."
"The next day, they sent us back to sift through the wreckage for evidence. we... didn't find anything, not one damn shred of anything incriminating. I... I still don't know why they did it."
"I was outraged Furious. I went straight to the prefecture captain to tell him what had happened. Surely he would be able to do something about this atrocity. I found him in his office, speaking with a strange mare. I gathered that she was a young mother, single, barely even a mare herself. Her... her twin foals had been in that schoolhouse. I didn't hear exactly what was said, but The captain didn't sound very sympathetic. He saw me listening, and ordered me to... to arrest her. I asked him on what charges. 'Treason,' he said."
"I was numb. This... this couldn't be happening, it had to be a dream. I visited her in the dungeon, whenever I had the time. Fikod was her name. We talked, about all sorts of things. It didn't matter what, we just talked. She told me about her family, how she and her parents had fled from AbbeyLashes after the Diomedians razed it to the ground. I told her about my foalhood traveling with the caravans, Mother and Father working as caravan guards. I told her things I never would have told my colleagues. In all my years in the guard, this mare was the first pony I could ever truly call my friend."
"About a month later, I learned that Fikod was to be hanged. There had never been a trial, no evidence of her guilt had ever been brought forth. The order was given, and we were expected to obey. She... was calm, resigned to her fate. 'At least I'll be with my little angels' she said. I... didn't plan on letting that happen. One night, I sneaked into the dungeon. She was the only one on the prison block at the time, so they only felt the need to post one guard. It was... easy enough to bring him down and get his keys. I took Fikod out of the city - she had no family to speak of, so there was no reason to stay in the city. At that point, I didn't care what they did to me: my friend was more important. So it came as no surprise that my welcome was... less than warm when I returned. the rest... well, that was the same for all of us, I think."
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 02:00:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 02:05:40 am
"That's...Touching...Oh...Sir. Why is this all coming out now? Khenal and I have battled daemons on three different occasions, but none of us had this much motivation! You truly are a hero in my book, if in no one else's!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 02:08:20 am
Starkey stretchces out along the bed, his head at the foot.
"The captain? no more than a week ago, that could have been me."
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 02:09:34 am
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 02:14:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 02:17:15 am
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 02:19:36 am
((I'm just ending the scene so that we can all be fully awake for the next one. Good night everypony!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 02:30:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 02:33:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 02:35:16 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 02:39:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 02:42:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 02:48:45 am
He is clearly lying.
"Now, are you ready to tell me why you really wanted to die?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 03:36:36 am
Friesden, as you may know, has been my...host, that's a good translation, for a long time. What you don't know is how long. Since before her birth she has held me. At first it was a mere inconvenience. Her sire had...well, you'd best ask Friesden herself that. She sealed those memories from me. Anyway, her sire had done something to try and seal me in her...to control. I played with her. Her defences were pitiful, even for a pony. Buffaloes are where the mental protection is at.
Anyway, it was a mere inconvenience. That was where I learned to possess multiple ponies. Her sire, he starts to grin, he tried to bind me again. Didn't have an idea about why it wasn't working. Eventually he went nearly mad and tried to bind me into Friesden's dam. Ha. I took control of Friesden then. Knocked her sire out while he was still preparing. Killed the dam. I grabbed her soul before it left the realm. It was a trophy at the time. Delicious, causing a filly to kill her dam. She was charged with murder, but an investigation by the unicorns of the town halted that and had her immediately imprisoned in a sealed facility.
They knew she had a daemon inside her, and they knew her sire had bound it into her. He was executed, the fool. They didn't know that the daemon was free. After a week of boredom, I had unbound three other daemons, turning the ponies into daemonhosts. The entire facility was destroyed, and we escaped.
From then, it was us against the world. It took some time to get a proper...agreement, shall we say. Her mind was our main weakness, you see? We agreed to split it. Her mother was the first mind to be added. Then we started to add false minds, voluntarily, on her side, giving her multiple personalities. I, of course, controlled them. We only needed them to dodge the telepaths. The rest of the time, it was her.
Eventually we came here. Both of us had gotten sloppy...lazy. We lost control of her mind once. One of the pegasi died. That was when we fabricated the diary. Marvellous work of fiction. I do recommend it.
I was straining myself, trying to find why I had lost it. It came to me. We had fallen for each other. By this time, Friesden was in gaol. She had retreated into her mind, letting the other personalitie take over. I came back. And from there, you should know. Friesden knew we had to escape. If we had a small riot over anything, we could take the chance to get out. Friesden didn't know, but I had already planned to escape from her. Positive emotions are poison to a daemon. I was trying for Khenal, to get him to banish me, but he decided to trap me instead. I'd already left Friesden mostly trapped, but she knew why. When that bastard possessing Carrot came...well, I couldn't just hide behind Khenal. I reopened Friesden's connection and drove back into there. I fought off Carrot...and the rest you know.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 03:44:01 am
"What was so... special about the daemon posessing Carrot? What was he to you? Why did you have to fight him?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 03:52:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 03:53:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 03:54:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 04:02:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 04:05:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 04:08:01 am
((Goodnight all.))
Post by: Rentorian on November 14, 2011, 10:47:56 am
Secondly, you still accepting new victims or not? What I've seen so far looks very fun and entertaining, so I'd like to throw my hat into the ring.
If I make the cut here be some info on mah pony.
Name: Granite
Gender: Male
Caste: Earth Pony
Profession: Anything rock related. Order of preference: Stone Detailing, Mining, Stonecrafting, Masonry. I suppose pottery might count but that would be the last thing on the list.
Bio: Joined up with a migrant wave partway through their journey to Glitterglen and claimed he had been slated for deportation right after they left, was kicked out anyway and told to 'go that way'.
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 03:46:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 03:51:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 04:13:40 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 04:32:47 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 14, 2011, 04:35:30 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 04:43:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 04:50:36 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 14, 2011, 04:53:32 pm
Unfortunately between school, work, NaNoWriMo, and Skyrim I don't think I have the time to do it at a reasonable speed right now.
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 04:56:40 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: DVNO on November 14, 2011, 05:04:27 pm
you people RP'ing so hardcore and juxtaposing it to the painterly pastels of My Little Pony is hilarious BTW.
anywhosit, I'm jumping in too, pony me up!
Name: Couth Darkmane
Sex: Male
Role: Bartender
Race(duh):Earth pony
Basic info; if Fallout's Moriarty and Pinkie Pie had a pony baby (illegal in most states) this would be the result.
Post by: Rentorian on November 14, 2011, 05:08:11 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 14, 2011, 05:49:07 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 14, 2011, 06:08:29 pm
Did you two come from surfing the forums, or the HoL?))
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 06:12:00 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 06:23:18 pm
Who knew that the master joining in was the breaker that caused this....rout.^_^ sigged.
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 06:23:44 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 06:25:37 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 14, 2011, 06:32:40 pm
Second, I won't be here for awhile, so don't include me in this RP.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 14, 2011, 07:06:40 pm
And...
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
New pony means new pony in game description. It is below. Khenal, I assume you will want to do your thing? Although he's basically just another indigo earthpony.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
A few quick notes about our new guy. I don't currently have any available male earthponies in any stone based industry. Except for that metalcrafter I mentioned a few pages ago, who was named Katak. He's new to mining, as his metal-crafting skill is wasted here. Although he also was recently possessed and produced an artifact. The adamantine earring I gave to Psycho. But now his name is Granite.
Chairty's Journal 13th Malachite 98
Captian Khenal's office has begun to dry out. However, his floor is caked in a layer of mud and dust, and some blood got washed in as well. and several rather large rocks somehow made it. The rocks have been removed, but everypony has been to busy to help him clean the dirt up. Poor Khenal, can't even get to and from his private rooms without getting his boots covered in the Sister's only know what.
We reactivated the water flow, and with the pressure greatly reduced it was able to flow much more gently. Once, it was calm, we opened the refilling mechanism and now water will constantly flow, from the aquifer, to where the hospital's well is, and then down to the caverns shower, and then to Kheanal's office, and finally to the cavern lake. We will have to watch it for flooding, but I think it's going to work just fine now.
14th Malachite 98
This month Starkey's squad is supposed to be defending the cavern entrance, but today a pair of Batmen, attacked a fisherpony in the caverns. The ground squad seemed to relish the opportunity for some action and chased them off, but I think they were disappointed when the bat creatures flew off over the underground lake, out of reach.
20th Malchite 98
Ironya and Firelordsky had another foal today. A little pegasan colt. Name of Odur.
12th Galena 98
A zebra caravan has been spotted by our scouts, they should be here in a day or two. And I have renewed my ban on the export of amulets. I hope the citizens listen to me this time. Encase they don't however, I'm calling for the expansion of the prison block.
_______________________________________________________________
On the 18th of Galena, a diomedian ambush came to Glitterglen. Kil was out on the surface and the young unicorn wife and her foal were the target of the foul attack. A tentacle pony grabbed her child by the throat, as Charity's daughter Belle, watched from across the river. It was Belle who sounded the alarm. The militia upon hearing that Kil was in danger wasted no time in charging forth to meet the enemy. While the Fortress Guard were ordered to the courtyard, encase another group tried to sneak in while the militia was out.
As Bebmal approached, masterful steel axe in mouth, and a shield floating nearby him, held by his unicorn magic, one of the keishi ponies, let loose a battle cry, and entered a trance like state.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Kolad.png)
Madush and Osal, a pair of Marksponies, rush a Tentacle pony and tumble together before bashing it with their crossbows, repeatedly.
More ponies surround the Tranced enemy. He fights them off well for a time, severally injuring one in the leg, and bruising several more through the militia ponies steel armor. But together and with the help of one of the unicorn lashers Langgud, the tide turns against him. That is until another Tentacled Axepony joins the fight and hacks poor Langgud many times, inflicting several bleeding wounds which quickly do in the brave unicorn.
Another pony is less lucky, he is quickly overwhelmed by multiple attacks, his armor mearly prolongs his suffering as he is stuck again and again.
Osal and Bebmal flee the battle. Captain Otik tries to hold everypony together. And fires off shots at the ponies chasing Osal. "If only the melee squad had charged together." He thinks to himself. But then Commander Starkey, late to the battle shows his face. He rushes off and joins Tecak the markspony and Rithlut the lasher, in melee with a tentacle pony. They quickly kill it and the entire militia turns it's focus on the lone remaining tentacled bastard, hacking and shooting, and whipping it until at last it fell.
The milita, badly bloodied, returned home, to Glitterglen. Though lives were lost, Kil and her foal survived, entirely unharmed, much to the delight of Captain Carrot.
________________________________________________________
Charity's Journal 18th Galena 98
A diomedian ambush took us by surprise today. Kil and her baby were in danger, this lead to foolishness on the part of the militia, instead of grouping together for a charge, they went off blindly, while the day was won, and the civilians all saved, we lost two ponies, and two more are in the Hospital.
(Oh wow, another new pony while I was typing. Okay DVNO, welcome to Glitterglen and all that. Okay, I just so happened to have a male earthpony Cook/brewer. So, he's been officially claimed as Couth Darkmane.
His info will be posted in the spoiler below.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 07:18:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 07:28:44 pm
One of the straps breaks.
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 07:45:23 pm
'Starkey's past certainly explains a lot, and I really need to talk to Dr. Bubbles about making sure Friesden is never left alone. He might even be able to reach her, he at least wasn't involved in the incident with Schmoe.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 07:48:10 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 07:50:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 08:05:57 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 08:12:05 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 08:16:05 pm
"Rargaboogabooga!"
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 08:17:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 08:20:56 pm
"Car-ahaha-Carrot! Are *gasp* are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 08:21:02 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 08:25:11 pm
"C-Carrot? Getoffomee!"
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 08:27:50 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 14, 2011, 08:37:42 pm
***************************************************************************
"This is it eh?" Granite asked the seemingly empty air around him.
"As far as I can tell, the place smells delicious," responded a second voice that seemed to come from Granite's mouth.
"You're going to have to stop doing that if we want to actually stay here for a while," Granite chided the voice as he look at the fort from the hill he was standing on. "Well, no time like the present to see how long it takes them to run us out this time," he said smiling as he shifted his pack around, bringing his mining pick to the front.
"Just make sure I get something to eat soon," the voice reminded him.
"Speak in my head, not with my mouth. I've told you that a million times!" Granite growled.
Fine, fine. Is this better your majesty? the voice asked mockingly.
"Much." Granite grunted as he looked for a nice clear path to the front of the fortress, it looked like there was some sort of commotion out front... "Oh hell," he muttered as he recognized a Diomedian ambush party. "Looks like you might get a meal sooner than you thought."
Excellent, traveling is always such hungry work, the voice said happily.
"Says the one that doesn't have to do any of the walking," Granite growled.
Please, you're a pony, you can eat grass. I can't and I'm hungry, it repeated piteously.
"We'll head in as soon as that raiding party is done with, that sound good?" Granite asked.
Excellent, be sure to head to head to the hospital, those places always have plenty of food, the voice reminded him.
"I know," Granite replied.
And make sure to- the voice started saying.
"I know that too, just lay low and try to keep in sync with me as much as you can. Don't want anyone detecting you before we at least can resupply," Granite interjected. As he looked down at the field in front of the fortress he saw that the Diomedian's were fleeing, apparently routed. With a grin he started trotting down the hill towards the fortress, shouting to the first pony he saw to let them know another migrant had shown up.
*************************************************************************
And as an added bonus we have Granite as seen through he pony maker:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 09:32:05 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 09:35:26 pm
"Ah-heh-heh, ah, come on Carrot."
He extends a hoof to help him up.
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 09:47:06 pm
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 10:20:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 10:21:24 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 14, 2011, 10:21:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 10:30:33 pm
"Carrot?"
Starkey notices the blood.
"Oh clop... Khenal, he's injured! Go to the infirmary, tell the doctor!"
He hoists Carrot onto his back.
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 10:34:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 10:42:03 pm
"Dr. Bubbles! Anypony! Carrot looks like he's in bad shape!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 10:46:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 10:52:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 10:53:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 10:59:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:03:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:05:22 pm
My horn brightens as I attempt to wrest the scalpel from Friesden
"Please Friesden, calm down!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:06:51 pm
"Kill you!" the pegasus repeats and continues to try and struggle, growing angrier by the minute.
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:14:22 pm
I continue trying to take the scalpel, not wanting to try my sleep spell while also doing telekinesis.
"Starkey! Where are you?! Friesden is loose!"
Post by: The Master on November 14, 2011, 11:16:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:19:17 pm
"I will kill you. You will die by my hand. I will kill you. Kill you. KILL YOU!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 11:22:28 pm
Seeing the scene arrayed before him, Starkey shoulders Carrot onto a nearby bed and rushes to restrain Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:24:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:31:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:33:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 11:35:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:37:26 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:40:43 pm
"Please Friesden, I don't want to hurt you!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 11:42:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:44:11 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 14, 2011, 11:44:25 pm
It's near midnight in Glitterglen. everypony is asleep, and the air in the very cave itself is motionless. all but one building, a bar called the Unshorn Fetlock shows even a glimmer of life. inside are 12 off-duty haulers and their gracious host and bartender Couth Darkmane entertaining them. "...and ten amulets made of that banned metal tumble out of her basket! her father looks at the whole mess his daughter made, looks at her , looks at the guard and says..." Couth pauses as he refills a hauler's mug with the finest brew ... and he says "I don't know her!"" the mead hall roars with laughter. "and what happened next!?" cried a hauler in baited breath. Couth's eyes lock with his. "the guard beat her to death." he said dryly. the room went silent. If this was the punchline of couth's joke it was a sick one. " I-I'm so sorry I didn't know." the inquiring hauler stammered to cut the tension. Couth cocks an eyebrow. " you didn't know the guards killed three ponies over amulets? do you live under a ROCK?" " uh, yes. yes I do." the hauler responds truthfully. Couth sighs, says "well, it was a mistake. it's over. no need to-" "well who's mistake was it?" interrupted another pony. "nopony official is pointing hooves yet, but last I checked it's under Charity's authority to enforce-" "damn the mayor,an' damn tha princess! those bluebloods try every trick in the book to keep us down."A drunk hauler close to Couth garbled. Couth clenched his teeth "say what you want about mayor Charity but our princess Hux had nothing to do with-" the drunk pony detects the bartender's fondness for the royal family " alicorns think of us like pests, they want of us earthponies dead." "you. out. now." Couth says coolly. the hauler continues "I will never have enough coin to feed my family, and why? because i wasn't born with wings and a stupid hoity-toity hor-" Couth grabs the drunk bastard by the mane and headbutts him unconscious, breaks a bottle of fine wine and with a mad glare declares "THE BAR IS CLOSED. EVERYONE OUT." everypony makes a mad dash out of the bar.
-----------------
not done, will write more after I finish watching walking dead :P
EDIT this post is now cannon
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:49:43 pm
My horn flashes as I cast the sleep spell, trusting in Starkey to keep Friesden from falling on the scalpel or anything else dangerous.
*********
I believe we only have 3 miners, and one of them is brand-spanking-new. Haulers might work better for your bar, just so you know, DVNO :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 14, 2011, 11:53:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 14, 2011, 11:56:23 pm
"What the clop was that all about?"
Post by: Khenal on November 14, 2011, 11:59:57 pm
I carefully levitate her back to the traction bench, making sure she's secure.
*Sigh* "I should have listened and had her observed at all times..."
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:01:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:01:54 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 12:04:45 am
I believe we only have 3 miners, and one of them is brand-spanking-new. Haulers might work better for your bar, just so you know, DVNO :P
That is absolutely correct. I know most players tend to have more miners than that, but I tend to think two or three legendary miners work quite fast enough. I might use more if I have some sort of large underground project planned, but in most forts only a handful is sufficient, the other ponies are unnecessary. So yeah DVNO you might want to use haulers instead of miners for your bar. As they are the largest group of nameless ponies.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 12:15:40 am
I turn to look at Starkey and notice Carrot on the bed behind him.
"...Why is Carrot bleeding? Doctor!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:17:31 am
Starkey checks Carrot's pulse.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:24:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:26:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 12:33:55 am
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:35:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:39:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:41:08 am
Starkey rears up, placing his hooves on Carrots chest and rapidly pumping his ribcage.
"Khenal! Find me some gauze!"
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 12:45:39 am
'Keeper, I don't suppose you have any memories of triage? Anything at all?'
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:46:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 12:48:58 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:51:07 am
He notices as carrot's breathing becomes labored. Without so much as a second thought, he draws in a deep breath and blows it into Carrot's lungs.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 12:52:06 am
Suddenly, Khenal notice a faint glint coming from the gash, and you lean closer to see what it is.
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 12:52:22 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 12:53:45 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 01:08:04 am
I lean closer to get a better look at whatever it is in the wound.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:09:36 am
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 01:10:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 01:18:05 am
I quickly remove the knife from the wound, trying not to damage Carrot any further. I then replace the soaked bandage with a new one.
'Um, how much is too much?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:19:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 01:22:23 am
Starkey continues administering breaths and compressions.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:24:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 01:27:19 am
Psycho has been awake for a while now, but FAR too weak to be able to talk...until now. Psycho musters up all of his remaining strength, and says "...Look after my kids...when I die..." and then he has a heart attack.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 01:28:16 am
'How much blood does it look like he's lost? I'm not very good at guessing liquids, and I don't want him to die again.'
"Uh-oh"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 01:33:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:34:44 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 01:40:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:42:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 01:51:22 am
My horn begins crackling with a charge of electricity, ready to try to shock Carrot back to life once Starkey is clear of him.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 01:54:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 01:57:09 am
Starkey backs away, ready to jump right back in if this doesn't work.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 01:58:13 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 02:03:49 am
I lean down to place my horn as near Carrot's heart as I can, then release a strong shock into him.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 02:15:14 am
((Well. It's 2:16 am in America...so I'm going to bed...G'night ponies!))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 02:18:59 am
"He'll live, thank the goddess. What did you do?"
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 02:26:22 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 02:33:52 am
Starkey approaches Friesden cautiously, expecting her to wake at any moment.
"Now... what's got you all hot and bothered, miss?"
He picks up the scalpel from her rampage, examining it.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 02:39:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 02:56:54 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:01:43 am
"I suspected since right after the incident. The fires didn't die after you were finished with Friesden. I confirmed it a month or so ago, when I finally got the nerve to check on the popcorn Schmoe had left in my mind. I had actually come to your office to talk about it then, but..."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 03:04:41 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:10:21 am
I pace a bit during my short tirade, before calming down and giving Starkey a measuring look, then smiling warmly. 'Figures he'd have the mental discipline to keep something like Schmoe in check. Heh, even without magic.'
"What are you going to do with him?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 03:15:49 am
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 03:20:06 am
Bokbon used to come into this bar everyday and read aloud her poems about nature, love, and all things beautiful. she captured my hart. she's gone now. and why? Incompetence. Pure Incompetence.
Some wrongs can't be made right. but I'll be damned if I can't try.
Couth wakes on the floor of his bar with his muzzle half-submerged in spilled ale and regret. I lost my temper again.. he thinks as he surveys the destruction of his normally spotless bar. "In last night's drunken rampage I turned over two racks of mead, threw a table out a window and ...? what's this, I wrote a note?"
Intrigued , Couth props up a strewn bar stool and begins to read. "this is unsettling." his eyes widen. "no, this is high treason."
Nicolta Tesla,
It has come to my attention that I need to bolster my office's security in light of the current break-in. I am formally requesting you to set up a crossbow trap during it's renovation and prime it. don't breathe a word of it to any other pony. what's the use of a trap if everyone knows there's a trap? meet me at the cliff overlooking Khenal's office for your just reward.
- Mayor Charity
what's that phrase "just reward" implying? I always joked that place was a great place for somepony to "have an accident" but would I possibly?
"what'ca readin' ?" Nicolta Tesla asked.
Couth jumps back about ten feet.
"WHO IN CELESTIAS NAME LET YOU IN?"
"uh, I came in here for my usual morning brew? and then I find the whole place turned over? are you ok?
right. this is the part of my day where I make Nicolta a ridiculously caffeinated brew and she frantically chats my ear off about her latest technical marvel beheading this and eviscerating that.
" I'm just.. uh, well I.. had an accident taking stock, it's nothing."
"Mmm'hm. well do you have my brew ready?"
"sorry, not today."
"oh, well it's been uh, interesting chatting with you. I guess i'll get going."
she turns to leave
"hey, Nicolta? I heard the Mayor and the militia had a stand off. were there any arrests?"
"hmm, nope, I think everything was sorted out in the end and everyone understood each other!"
"hah, yeah everyone got a happy ending. hey Nicolta, I almost forgot, Charity wanted me to give this letter to you." Couth said coldly.
-----------------------
OOC, next person to walk into Charity's office gets an arrow to the chest! the !!FUN!! has been doubled!
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:22:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 03:28:30 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:43:31 am
I sit down, trying to wrap my mind around anypony falling for a daemon and for a daemon to reciprocate the feeling.
"Huh, I guess that explains his odd behavior. And most of the rest of his plan. But if it works, will he be a good...whatever he becomes, or will he be even worse?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 03:50:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 03:52:12 am
"I wonder... if he really loves Friesden, do you think he would help... bring her back to us?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 03:56:44 am
Mere minutes after Tesla leaves the area, Charity approaches her office door. Her bouncing baby pegasus filly riding upon her back, slightly sleepy. Charity, humms a little lullaby for her daughter, as she begins to open the door. Her front right hoof, steps upon the pressure place, and a bronze bolt flies and strikes her in her chest. She attempts to cry out, but her cry is muffled by her collapsing lung. She takes a few steps back before stumbling, Skydancer falls off her mother's back, and hits the stone floor and begins to cry. Charity coaghs up blood as she tries to call out for help. Skydancer's cries echo throughout the upper levels of the fortress.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:01:09 am
'Well, Keeper?'
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 04:01:22 am
*Bubbles hears a disturbance in the hospital, followed by what sounded awfully like Miss Charity screaming in pain. Charging out the back door, he found Charity bleeding at her front door, Skywalker crying nearby.*
"MISS CHARITY! WHAT HAPPENED?"
*Bubbles grabs her and brings her to the hospital as fast as he can*
((Damn, looks like you lot are going to have some even CRAZIER reactions to this.))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 04:02:30 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 04:06:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 04:09:12 am
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:11:13 am
Realizing how insane that sounds, I try to elaborate.
"Er, in the middle of the confrontation, Schmoe had pulled out a bag of memories that he intended to eat like popcorn. I snatched them from him, thinking he had somehow gotten loose and was taking my memories. They were his memories, not mine. I sealed them, hoping to limit his power by taking some of his sustenance. Once I finally decided to try looking though them, they had changed into a unicorn who likes to say confusing things and give good advice that I usually don't want to follow."
I pause, seeming to listen to something.
"Really confusing things..."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 04:17:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 04:24:16 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 04:25:13 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 04:26:06 am
((This is all said in a calm tone to prevent Charity from waking up in shock))
*Bubbles bucks the door to the hospital open.*
((Now it's you guys' turn to say something convincing.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 04:31:00 am
(Although if I'm not mistaken, Bubbles and Charity just crashed through the door into where Khenal, Starkey, Friesden, and unconscious Carrot are at. So yay, the gang is all together, and only two of us are dying, today. Well, so far.)
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:34:10 am
I drop the dagger when Dr. Bubbles bucks the door open with the Countess across his back.
"What happened?!"
***********
Like ships passing in the night, Starkey manages to sneak out before more drama happens ;)
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 05:00:04 am
Oh Couth, what are you doing? WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?
I'm doing what nopony else has the guts to do.
And I'm doing it for the Princess.
At this thought, a weary Couth Darkmane finally stopped pacing around his room. he'd been doing it for hours, pacing around like a nervous wreck, but it's just now that he realizes it.
In fact, he comes to alot of hard hitting realizations. the most distressing one? he has no plan.
"ok, ok, plan, plan plan, whats the plan? where do I go from here?"
Couth picks up his quill and sets up some priorities on parchment.
"first, there's Nicolta to deal with."
"then, I need to set things right in Glitterglen, make it a better place."
"after that, the princess might notice I am a pony that exists."
the very thought caused a euphoria to wash over him.
It was just enough for him to commit to step one.
he sets off, saunters back in his home, grabs a bag of granite marbles with his mouth, and sets off again.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
" well, here I am," Nicolta sighed impatiently, tapping her hoof. it's not like charity to keep him waiting.
his ears perk up, hears somepony crying! it could be a snatcher attack! his trap could have gone awry!
He tries to break into a gallop but some lunatic spread practically camouflaged marbles all over the cliff face!
He trips, tumbles, slips and slides off the edge! his grasp on the side of the cliff face is the only thing keeping him from his certain death.
As Nicolta looks up, there is an guardian angel looming over him, his
"Oh thank Celestia! quick! help me up!"
The colt sucks in his teeth.
"tsssst oooh, yeah, about that, I'm not going to get you out of there until we set a few things straight."
--------------------------
OOC: the owner of Nicolta Tesla speak now or forever hold your peace.
not bad for my first day, guys?
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 08:14:41 am
The pony stared at me for a few seconds before responding, "Someone tried to assassinate Charity! She's in the hospital now and she's going to die! People are saying it was the Diomedians and their ambush was a ruse to-"
I cut her off before she could go any further, I knew a budding rumor when I heard it. The part about Charity being hurt was probably true though. Probably the only part that was true.
We should go in there... To see if our new leader is okay of course.
"Shut it Negs," I muttered under my breath, low enough that no one would have been able to hear me.
I'm just saying we could make a good impression. Always a good idea to get an in with the powers that be in case things go south again.
"That's what ended up getting us chased out of the last one," I sighed. "But you're right. Anyways, If I can explain away your eating habits we might be able to help out."
You'll want me to feed openly?
"Only if I can come up with a good explanation. Otherwise it's back to the usual." Putting on my best concerned but willing to help face I made my way into the hospital.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 08:16:41 am
This is all said with a ring of depression
"Help me with Charity. Wash the wound there while I dress it."
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 09:17:22 am
I start washing the wound, noticing Charity shudder as I touch it.
"There's something else I can do. It will... lessen the pain."
Post by: pantherrpg on November 15, 2011, 09:19:44 am
Owner of Nicolta Tesla here, I have finals this week so I don't have time to role-play. As such you'll have to provide Nicolta's response to the situation. (Try not to kill him though)
PS, Nicolta Tesla is male))
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 10:21:29 am
((But seriously, don't make this scenario even worse. RPing is fun enough when you have a crazy daemon trying to kill everyone.))
((Also, HELLO! How long has it been since you've been here? No doubt you will be overwhelmed with the RP thats going on.))
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 10:33:03 am
**********************************************************************************
"I take in the fear, suffering, anger, despair... Pretty much any negative emotions and sensations. It can leave a person calmer, more relaxed. But it can also take away the rush you get from those feelings. If that's all that's keeping her alive it'll harm her, if not it will at least make her more comfortable."
Keep an eye on that Khenal. Won't like me, won't like us. Might have to run again. I really don't want to run on an empty stomach Granite.
"I know that, now shut up and let me keep talking," I muttered under my breath.
Can I at least taste the one over there? She smells delicious.
"No," I whispered sharply. "No eating right now."
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 02:11:55 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 02:34:19 pm
I know what I'm doing.
I've never known what a direct feeding looks like from someone else's perspective. I know most people can't see the entire thing but they can always tell something is going on. I took a deep breath and focused, letting Negs move forward in my mind. Charity's body was suddenly a multicolored cocoon of light. With a cry of delight Negs reached out and pulled, slowly at first and then faster and faster as bloody reds, deep blacks, sickly greens, and half a dozen other colors swept up into me. I shuddered as I felt the same euphoric feeling he felt whenever he fed deeply and staggered to the side, closing the gate Negs had used. When I looked at Charity again she as breathing deeply and softly, as though she had simply decided to go to sleep for the night.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 02:46:03 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 02:56:46 pm
"Ughugm," Couth clears his throat - he knows convincing Nicolta that he's the hero in all of this is going to be a long shot but he's no barbarian! he has to try!
"listen, Nicolta, I'm just going be upfront. I may forged those trap orders."
"you WHAT-"
"-and I might have just killed the countess"
"I DON- YOU -HOW - WHA?"
Nicolta can't believe what's he's hearing! this isn't the brewer he knows! who is this pony?
"yeah, it's just been one of those days..." Couth said with a sheepish honesty.
"YOU MONSTER!" he cries!
Couth winces
"YOU MADMARE' he sobs!
Couth winces again
"YOU HONORLESS KINIVING CHURL!"
Couth painfully presses his hooves into Nicolta's
"I. am not. the. bad guy." Couth enunciates.
"look, I don't want to hurt you, I don't have to. All I need is that note. then this can all blow over."
Nicolta Baulks at even the notion of placating, but her grip IS getting weaker by the second...
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:01:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 03:02:56 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 03:12:34 pm
"What do you mean? You haven't fed like that in years. I can't remember the last time I felt this good and I'm sure you can't either." I looked around the hospital to disguise my checking to see if anyone was paying attention to my whispering.
Not the feeding. That was glorious there's something else that's wrong. Can't you hear it? There's a... buzzing in the air.
"I don't hear anything..." I couldn't think of anything that would set Negs off like that, but if he said something was off it was best to leave the room. Immediately.
"I... think I need to sit down for a while. That was harder than I expected. If you need me I'll be in the dining hall."
Hoping my admittedly flimsy excuse would hold up I headed towards the door.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:15:49 pm
I get up to follow this pony out, confident that both Charity and Carrot are in good hooves.
"Let me get you a drink, mysterious new pony. I'm Khenal, what's your name?"
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 03:20:20 pm
Damn it! I was hoping I could get away without being followed.
"I suppose I could use a drink now that you mention it."
Might as well get something out of this.
I choose a seat in one of the less crowded sections of the dining hall and sit down, before Khenal can get the drinks I decide I just might as well ask and get it over with.
"What do you really want? That look in your eye says you want a lot more than to get me a drink."
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:29:04 pm
"I want to know how you did what you did to Charity. I know you took her pain, and no earth pony should be able to do that."
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 03:31:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:35:35 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 03:38:53 pm
HEY! There's no need to be rude.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 03:46:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 03:56:17 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 03:59:43 pm
Through the pain, through the fear, and through the pumping adrenaline, Nicoltla tesla mutters one last thing;
"I am so sorry Charity, so sorry I failed you"
He plummets into the dark chasm below.
Couth stares into the chasm wide eyed and mouth open.
there's is a long silence
-Thud-
------------------
(in other words,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKZ9vIS-OU4&feature=related)
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 04:02:35 pm
"Benefit of the doubt eh? I suppose that can also be translated as, 'tell me now and it probably won't be a problem, or tell me later when it might be a problem' can't it?"
Before Khenal could respond I continued, "I suppose I can either give you the long version or the short version. Which would you prefer?"
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:07:31 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 04:19:04 pm
I smiled cheerfully and added, "I call him Negs."
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:24:07 pm
"So, Negs...'ate' Charity's pain?"
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 04:28:16 pm
Suddenly a second voice, similar but somehow different comes form Granites unmoving mouth.
"I don't think she believes you."
"Well either I'm just a very strange earth piny and very good ventriloquist or I'm telling the truth aren't I?"
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:36:04 pm
I give Granite a sincere smile as I stand to leave.
"Believe it or not, you aren't the strangest pony I've met here. You at least seem to be stable and in control. If you need help with anything, just come find me in my office or my room. Ask a guard for me if you need directions. I'm afraid I need to get going. I'll need to reschedule our patrols and stations to make sure at least one guard is in the hospital at all times, especially with Charity in there right now."
'And I need to find the time to read a few of those books Carrot got me...'
*************
Everypony thinks Khenal is a mare, do I need to give him a big beard to talk about or what? :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 04:36:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 04:39:01 pm
Psycho awakes with a start.
"AH! WHAT HAPPENED?! I remember khenal scarring me, then I jumped out a window...It's all blank after that." Psycho says, confused.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 04:39:26 pm
Dwarf women have beards, too.((Actually...I don't think they do...))
Post by: DVNO on November 15, 2011, 04:41:38 pm
"only killed two ponies, no pressure, no pressure, oh no pressure! I killed two ponies in cold blood! what do I do!" he bawled!
the pony slowly turns his head stares down the chasm again, considering falling down it too, an option
"well," he gulps "that IS a way out."
as he stares into the abyss he finds some clarity.
no, everyone still thinks I'm a normal citizen, I just need to act like it. he thinks.
ok,ok, I'm a normal citizen, I just saw an accident. what do I do?
"Report it to captain Khenal." he says calmly.
Post by: Khenal on November 15, 2011, 04:42:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 04:43:57 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 04:44:08 pm
*******************************************************************
"Well now that was interesting."
Yeah. No one's been so accepting of us in a long time.
"Makes me wonder what's happened here to make him so willing to see us as the better alternative."
That's... a good point.
"I think it's time to do a little... investigating. Now who might be able to tell us what we need to know?"
I walk off aimlessly, muttering to myself.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 04:45:30 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 04:48:40 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 04:59:28 pm
"Negs. Why are we back here?"
How should I know. Maybe you weren't paying attention to where you were going.
"No, I may not have had a destination in mind but I was trying to see parts of the fort I hadn't seen yet. Unless you've forgotten we've already been here."
Well, I... You see...
FINE! I may have nudged you a little bit so you would come back here but I really want to taste that one pony that was in here, she smelled so good!
"You just had a massive meal! What more could you want?"
Desert?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:03:44 pm
Psycho awakes with a start.
"AH! WHAT HAPPENED?! I remember khenal scarring me, then I jumped out a window...It's all blank after that." Psycho says, confused.
As Psycho looks around his surroundings, he will see lying in a nearby bed, is the Countess Charity. She is currently asleep. Next to her sits, her family, Cryptson and their 4 foals. Cryptson looks grim, even by his usual standards. He looks over to Psycho and says, "Captain Carrot, please be quite, Charity is resting now. If you will listen, and promise not to yell, I will catch you up to speed."
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:05:28 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 05:07:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:11:03 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:11:54 pm
Edit: Ninja'd by Dsarker so, I guess Cryptson manages to get that out before the scream?
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 05:21:01 pm
"What's going on?"
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 05:21:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:23:52 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:25:18 pm
Cryptson wheels around to the source of the screaming. "Buck it" he then turns to the pony that just ran in. "That pegasi just started screaming. Where's the doctor?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:28:52 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 05:31:50 pm
"NEGS! Calm her down!"
I thought you didn't want me to eat anything.
"Do it or I'll go in there and make you do it!"
Fine fine. It's time for an after meal snack!
I see the cocoon of light again, this time it is almost solely red, I see Negs start drawing on it, taking in her rage, but it doesn't seem to be diminishing at all.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:33:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:36:54 pm
Friesden stops.
"Huh."
She then tosses a dozen more sharp blades out, no longer in a blind rage, but controlled and aimed.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:40:02 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 05:44:40 pm
"That's it! If that doesn't work it's time for violence!"
I knock one of the beds onto its side kick out with both my back legs, sending the bed hurtling towards Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 05:49:25 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:52:56 pm
Edit: The foals Adamant and Cobalt let out a cry of "Daddy!" while Belle and Skydancer cower behind their big brothers.
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 05:54:49 pm
"Negs, take that pony's pain, we need him fighting at top form!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 05:58:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 06:01:40 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:04:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 06:05:04 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:07:50 pm
Cryptson continues pinning Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 06:09:31 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:11:39 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:14:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 06:16:11 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:21:40 pm
"THATS ENOUGH!"
*Bubbles charges out of her office, and a burst of light explodes throughout the room, blinding Friesden and knocking her out.*
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:21:47 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:22:50 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:23:10 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:24:30 pm
Rage is set in Bubbles' voice.
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:26:49 pm
"I better get some sort of explanation after this."
"Oh, and by the way. That Stallion, Cryptson, he got some nasty hits during that fight. I took the pain but..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:27:49 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:29:42 pm
"Scalpels are done. Explanations?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:30:36 pm
After the foals leave, Cryptson turns to the Doctor, "I'm not leaving as long as she ," his eyes lock on Friesden, "is in the same room as my wife." At this Bubbles will notice Cryptson is bleeding from several small wounds and two more major injuries to his chest. He seems unbothered them, but they look serious enough to you.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:32:20 pm
((I'm acting like Bubbles doesn't know the truth.))
"Cryptson, lay down on that bed please. I need to patch your wounds."
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 06:32:53 pm
"WHAT THE CLOP?!??!"
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:34:10 pm
I grimace and shove him back into my mind.
"What would a demon want with an outpost in the middle of nowhere like this? Better yet, is it still around?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:34:35 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 15, 2011, 06:40:47 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 06:49:32 pm
"What would a demon want with an outpost in the middle of nowhere like this? Better yet, is it still around?"
As Doctor Bubbles begins to treat Cryptson's injuries, Bubbles sighs, "Your new here aren't you? I haven't seen you in here before at least. Names Doctor Erok, by the way, but everyone calls me Bubbles, or Doctor Bubbles, or just doc. I'm the Chief Medical Pony of Glitterglen. Nice to meet you and all that." Cryptson bites down on his hoof as Bubbles begins suturing his wounds. "We'll I don't know much about the demon to be honest. Other than that it possessed Friesden for a long time. If you want more answers than that, you should ask Khenal, he's Captain of the Guard and has taken a special intrest in Friesden's case. He's the green royal. You've probably seen him around,err, I didn't catch your name?
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 06:58:20 pm
Does this mean the demon is gone?
"Demon's don't go away that easy..." I mutter to myself.
"Is there anything else you're gonna need help with Doc? After all I don't think I'll be getting any digging orders for a while." I nod meaningfully at Charity and Cryptson.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 07:01:23 pm
"Hi, i'm Psycho Carrot!" I say, friendly.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 07:03:21 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 07:05:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 07:13:03 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 07:17:57 pm
"That explains so much and yet so little."
I grin hugely.
"I think I'm gonna like you kid."
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 07:25:20 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 07:34:19 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 08:14:23 pm
"Carrot! Good, Cap'n said I'd find you here. You mobile?"
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 08:57:32 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 08:59:23 pm
Edit: correction Otik, not Starkey. Sorry.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 09:09:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 09:19:35 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 09:24:21 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 09:32:17 pm
Otik trots out the door.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 09:35:56 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 09:40:40 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 10:01:31 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 10:06:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 10:16:20 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 15, 2011, 10:27:41 pm
"Your orders, sir?"
Having bludgeoned himself insensible, the lieutenant does not respond.
"...sir?"
((Being that they're your men and all, I think it's only fitting that you play them as you like.))
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 10:32:39 pm
"You ponies are always so much fun," I mutter to myself.
Are we going to see Khenal about that demon now?
"I think we should stick around. From the sounds of things Khenal is going to be pretty busy and our noble Countess's valiant champion has knocked himself unconscious to get away from us. Besides, we've helped the countess recover, helped save the lives of everyone in the hospital, and we have the support of what seems to be a rather influential pony. Today has been a very good day." I settle down with a sigh and prepare to stand guard, pick at the ready.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 10:39:38 pm
"Glad to see you're awake, sir. Should I even ask wh-"
"No. Your orders are simple. I want you all to guard Charity and her children with your life! Do I make myself clear, dwarves?!" Barks Psycho.
"SIR YES SIR!" Yells the entire squad as they follow their orders.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 10:42:30 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 10:50:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 10:51:38 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 10:54:30 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 10:57:10 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:03:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 11:06:20 pm
"Hmmm. I don't feel any anger anymore. Maybe if I kill them, it'll bring that back, if nothing else. But how to get out of this room?"
Friesden looks around the room as carefully as she would a pony she was vivisecting.
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 11:07:23 pm
"Uhh...anyway, can I speak to this...Negs?" I ask, semi-humoring Granite, thinking it's just a symptom of schizophrenia.
((I say again Dsarker, YOU. ARE. INSANE!))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 11:12:18 pm
(Looking around the room Friesden will recognize that she's in the old well room. It was an elegant room, dug into a Colbaltite vein, the blue stone runs right through the granite. All the walls have been smoothed and engraved. In the center of the room, is a single bit of brick floor that she remembers is where the old well once was, only 3 stories above the water's surface in the caverns. Also, in the room is the old zinc chain and the wooden bucket from the old well. The floor is stained with blood, and dirtied with mud that ponies have long ago washed off themselves. The room is not as well lit as it once was with only light coming in from the cracks in the wooden door.)
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:16:47 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 15, 2011, 11:21:10 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:23:26 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 11:26:56 pm
"AS I WAS SAYING!" I say enraged.
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:32:19 pm
"As you were saying?"
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 11:34:33 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:39:34 pm
"Are you just as quick to discard the ideas of the demon that seemed to have had possessed that madpony in the other room? Just because you can't experience it doesn't make it any less real."
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 11:49:16 pm
"Don't tell me...Friesden went berserk...again..." I sigh, not even slightly surprised.
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:52:15 pm
Post by: The Master on November 15, 2011, 11:54:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 15, 2011, 11:55:25 pm
"Well, certainly one way to end it. Hmmm."
Post by: Rentorian on November 15, 2011, 11:57:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 12:12:34 am
"D-D-DISLIKE?!" I splutter, laughing insanely.
"It's far more than dislike. THAT PONY HAS CAUSED SO MUCH DAMAGE TO THIS BUCKING PLACE THAT I DON'T EVEN BOTHER KEEPING TRACK ANYMORE! I've been possessed by a daemon that apparently was a gentleman and challenged Friesden to a battle-and are you even listening...?"
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 12:16:20 am
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 12:26:58 am
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 12:39:11 am
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 01:13:27 am
"It runs deeper than that...I believe...that Khenal has fallen in love with friesden." I say, ready to scream with rage.
"Oh, and I'd like to keep my emotions, thank you kindly."
Post by: Dsarker on November 16, 2011, 01:19:11 am
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 01:19:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 16, 2011, 01:21:39 am
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 01:28:49 am
I sigh, "Love eh? That isn't something i can mess with."
I sit in thought a little longer.
"Violence isn't an option either... I'm starting to think I should have gone to a different outpost."
I stand back up and start to leave the room
"I've got a lot to think about now. I'll check up on you later."
********************************************************
Don't think I messed it up that time. In other news It's time for me to get going to sleep. Stupid early morning classes
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 01:29:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 01:31:30 am
((Good night everypony!))
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 07:38:11 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 07:51:19 pm
Bemusedly following the voice and glad to be away from my current thoughts I find Psycho still valiantly dragging himself onward.
"Need any help?"
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 07:53:50 pm
"No...NGH! I can do this...NGH!!!" I grunt, blinking back tears from the pain.
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 08:05:20 pm
I lean down to eye level with him.
"Since I doubt you're going to stop crawling with or without pain do you want it gone?"
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 08:09:15 pm
"I know i'm not dead again if- NGH!...if I can still feel pain. I don't need- AAAGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I scream as I accidentally scrape off the patch that kept my wound from bleeding.
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 08:15:14 pm
"Ah, this is what I always like to hear. People who want to live their lives! Too many people love taking the easy way out, letting me suck away part of what gives life it's spice! You are truly an entertaining individual."
I grin at him as I say this.
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 08:26:36 pm
"SHUT UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I scream.
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 08:31:44 pm
"He-heh. Temper temper my boy."
I sigh to myself.
"I suppose I should leave you be then."
I turn to leave and am almost out of the hall when I look over my shoulder and shout, "Don't mistake what I've said for anything but respect. You have bravery and heart. Perhaps a bit much so. I wish you luck in your endeavors."
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 08:35:59 pm
"I NEED A DOCTOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I scream through the tears.
Post by: Rentorian on November 16, 2011, 08:44:16 pm
I slow down and open the door.
"Hey, Doc Bubbles. Psycho is down one of the corridors, screaming in pain. You're going to need to send someone down there pronto."
**********************************
Probably not gonna be up much longer, got work at 3:30 in the morning tomorrow. Sleep tends to make the shifts much easier.
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 09:06:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 16, 2011, 11:55:10 pm
((EDIT: It's getting close to four hours...where are you people...?))
((EDIT2: You're all trying to make me cry aren't you?))
((EDIT3: Anyone...?))
Post by: DVNO on November 17, 2011, 01:42:25 am
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 01:53:32 am
((Edit: the worst part, I don't think they're coming back either! SO MUCH FOR LOYALTY GUYS!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 01:54:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 01:55:32 am
Fluttershy started to smile as she saw the three Cutie Mark Crusaders.
"Isn't this going to be fun! The sun will be up forever and that means you don't have to sleep anymore! Just do more crusading, forever and ever! And then you'll get your cutie marks! This will be great fun! Celestia is the greatest, isn't she! Giving us such a blessing! Playing together forever! No more sleeping! No more crying! No more hate! No more suffering!"
Fluttershy continued to smile.))
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 01:56:57 am
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 02:01:18 am
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 02:04:38 am
I usually go to bed in about an hour or so(it's two o'clock here)...I guess nothing major -if anything at the rate this is going- is going to happen this morning?
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 02:16:34 am
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 02:28:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 02:40:59 am
Psycho Carrot was born in a village called Estherxen. He was always different from the other ponies, and everypony was careful to avoid him. When he was 12, his mother was beaten to death by his dad, and he was traumatized forever. Carrot was involved in Khenal's first experiments in handling daemon possession, and died because of it. He met his wife, Kil, some time after this, but was not aware of his own past at this point. When Psycho first arrived at Glitterglen, he didn't expect it to be where it was. In fact, he was told that it was even farther into the forest from where he ended up finding it...
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 17, 2011, 02:45:11 am
(( i'll make a new entry around 2:00 pm-ish tomorrow. as for everyone else- *glances nervously* I think the Skyrim took em away. ))
How did you know? Are you a spy?
Charity's Journal (The day after the attempted assassination.)
I owe my life to Doctor Bubbles, without, his life saving surgery I surely would have perished from that crossbow bolt. I had the guard search my home and office for more traps, I don't trust the militia (save for Captain Carrot), but they didn't find anymore. I've ordered a full investigation into this by Captain Khenal, and when he figures out who is responsible I will have their head.
My husband Cryptson has quit mining and says that he won't return to work until the traitor is caught, so he can watch over us. He even said he was going to go tomorrow and request a suit of armor and a shiny new pick from the smiths so that he can defend us. I think he's being a little overzealous, what with The Wavy Passes [Psycho's squad] being our private body guards, but he said he wasn't going to ever lose anypony else ever again. And knowing his past I understand his concern.
Compiling what we know. The trap was set by someone who knows about machinery. Strange, counting the Efim murder last year, that makes two such incidents, in a very short time. Regardless, the ponies that are known to work with machinery are, Toltot [the immigrant that Venture discovered was a Darkbolt], a member of the commander's melee squad named Efim Ripeseeds the Pleated Pillar of Silkiness, an adept axepony, who has mastered the art of juggling both his axe and a shield in his filthy earthpony mouth, (I suspect him, I think the militia still blames me for the Bokbon incident, plus the reason I will talk about below.) Istbar is also capable of pulling it off but we know of no possible motive for her. Next we have Friesden, but naturally she's been under constant supervision so I don't think she could have snuck out and done it. And finally of course Nicolta Tesla.
Additionally, whichever pony did it was was able to get ahold of a crossbow. The bolt would be easy, those are left by all the archery ranges with little protection, but the bows (and all weapons) are kept locked in the armories, somepony, either stole one from behind the locked doors, or stole one from the militia or the traitor is somepony who would be allowed to take a weapon out. Or somepony made one. Khenal, should examine the weapon, and see if it is marked, and if so who was the last pony to check it out from the armory.
All this information has been relayed to Captain Khenal. Hopefully, he'll be able to track down the traitor and give him the justice he deserves.
It is my opinion that [the writting ends here.]
Tesla has just been found in the caverns, he seems to have fallen off a small cliff. Doctor Bubbles was able to help him, but he seems to have suffered some short term memory loss and can't remember what he was doing there. The Doc says such things are common with head injuries and that he may remember in time. [if Nicolta's player wants to join in. Otherwise I didn't want to make catching the culprit that easy.]
[I'm about to play some DF for a little while. So their might be exciting new things for you guys to react to by morning. Or maybe not depending on how long I play.]
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 03:00:10 am
Psycho Carrot was born in a village called Estherxen. He was always different from the other ponies, and everypony was careful to avoid him. When he was 12, his mother was beaten to death by his dad, and he was traumatized forever. Carrot was involved in Khenal's first experiments in handling daemon possession, and died because of it. He met his wife, Kil, some time after this, but was not aware of his own past at this point. When Psycho first arrived at Glitterglen, he didn't expect it to be where it was. In fact, he was told that it was even farther into the forest from where he ended up finding it.
True, Psycho was -for all intensive purposes- a zombie. However, he still has a mind, but his heart doesn't beat. His stomach digests food, but it stops there. If a doctor were to perform an autopsy on him, said doctor would likely kill him/herself after seeing the damage to the internal structure. Horror aspects aside, Psycho was kind but sharper than an adamantine blade when he needed to be. You could rest assure that you were safe if he was your bodyguard.
There's a reason why Psycho Carrot is stationed at glitterglen. First of all, used to be a 5-Star General for the queen. He was also the queen's favorite subject. Psycho was respected everywhere for his heroic deeds, such as the exaggerated tale involving defeating Armok in a game of pony chess. Then one day, Psycho just HAD to go and buck things up for himself. On the fateful day, when the queen gave birth to her new born child, Psycho Carrot snapped. Nopony, even to this day, knows why he snapped. Regardless, he grabbed the newborn, climbed up to the top of a two story building, and threw it off, insisting that it was actually a fire snake in disguise. Long story short, he was exiled to Glitterglen.
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 03:04:30 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 17, 2011, 03:56:14 am
Sorry, friends. Was at school (FML, ONLY 4 MORE WEEKS!)
I've been working on Bubbles' back story. Standby until I get it done.
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 03:56:57 am
"I hate paperwork"
I sit at my desk in my office, the floor still covered in what I've decided is mud until somepony tells me otherwise.
'I really hope it's just mud.'
I'm going over the reports from the day and the attempt on Charity's life, amazed at how much can happen in just a few hours. I'm writing in a new book, freshly bought from a caravan.
Khenal's Sequel, Prologue
Hello, my new book. I was going to call you just that, but if I get a third book eventually, it'll get confusing. So I'm going to call you my Sequel. I've had several other ponies read my Book, as it has important details about my past. I'd write them in you as well, but the only ones who might read you already know, my Sequel. And if they somehow manage to sneak you form my room, they likely have the skill to get my Book, though they should know that I don't take kindly to having my privacy invaded.
Anyway, I suppose I should get you up to speed, or at least tell you what has happened since I finished my Book. Schmoe, the memory eater, is very complicated. He has a convoluted plan to be reincarnated as a pony, I think, and he is in love with Friesden. Yes, a daemon is in love. Perhaps more astonishingly, she loves him back.
Ovbiously, one has to die to be reincarnated. I don't know if he manipulated the situation, or just took advantage of the work of another, but he got his chance when the export ban was violated. Charity had evidence of several ponies trading away amulets which she had expressly forbidden. I signed off their arrest, thinking the so-called smuglers would get a short jail sentence, or maybe a fine. Most got jail time, but then the jail filled. This is where I think either Schmoe or Carrot's daemon came into play, as the three remaining "smugglers" were given beatings. Two died on the scene, and Thunder Splinter certainly would have died if she wasn't rushed to the hospital.
The one to administer the beatings was Istlig, one of my guards. Naturally, Commander Starkey wasn't pleased with the guard murdering ponies in broad daylight under the guise of justice. He has since told me the details of why he was so livid, but I won't retell his past here. We set out to round up the guard, fearing the worst. We never expected Istlig himself to simply walk up to me to voice his objection of using real weapons to administer the beatings, saying that somepony might have been hurt. When I corrected him, he tried to kill himself.
With the help of Starkey, we were able to stop him, but he was possessed by Schmoe. Apparently, Schmoe knew how to possess several ponies, and I suspect that Carrot's daemon may have as well. I dared Schmoe to try to posses me, dangling my memories and power in front of him in an effort to have him in my head where I could deal with him. I was able to bind him, though I now suspect he simply let me.
A few weeks later, he escaped me. Carrot's daemon had regained control of him and was ready to wreak havoc in Glitterglen, and that apparently conflicted with Schmoe's plan. He still had some connection to Friesden, and slipped to her and unleashed his power to fight Carrot's daemon. Carrot was able to cast it out, and Schmoe dealt with it, and then demanded he be killed. I didn't understand him at the time, thinking he wanted Friesden dead. He finally said plain that he wanted himself dead, not Friesden, and I had no idea what to do. Commander Starkey, however, did. He asked me to link his and Friesden's minds, so he could handle Schmoe.
I did so, and thought he had killed Schmoe. At the time, I missed two important clues that said he was likely still alive. Firstly, the fires he had conjured didn't immediately die out. And secondly, he had left a small portion of himself behind in me. I named this new entity The Keeper, or just Keeper. It seemed to be a repository of Schmoe's memories, though it apparently can't access all of them whenever it pleases. I think that should get us to your first chapter, my Sequel.
Chapter 1
How can so many things happen in one day, my Sequel? I startled Carrot into jumping out a window and seriously injuring himself, so the Commander and I rushed him to the hospital. I ran ahead to make sure they would be ready to recieve him, but Friesden had gotten loose and attacked me. I fended her off until Starkey could get there and help subdue her. While he held her, I cast my sleep spell and we then tied her back to her bed.
In all the commotion, we didn't notice Carrot start to bleed. He shouldn't be able to bleed, my Sequel. He was basically a zombie, though a fully aware one. His heart didn't beat, but now it apparently was, and it was looking to kill him by bleeding out. Commander Starkey knows at least some basic treatment, and Keeper has medical knowledge as well. Together, we were able to stabilize Carrot.
Not long after, Dr. Bubbles came rushing in with Charity on his back. Somepony had trapped her room with a crossbow and it almost killed her. The good doctor had her well in hoof, and she's on her way to a recovery. I ordered guards in the hospital, then went to bed.
*Sigh* "There we go, it's been too long since I was able to write down my thoughts. Though now I have nothing to distract me from these papers..."
I grimace before starting to work my way through the pile. About half way though it, I bolt back to attention at what I just read.
Friesden escaped restraints again, timed during changing of guard. Cryptson and Granite subdued her. She is now being held in the old well room.
I am already out the door before the report has a chance to drift down to the top of the pile of paperwork.
**************
Another wall of text, loving hurled at the face of everypony, courtesy of me :P Speaking of walls of text, I'll be transcribing the story of Glitterglen soon for everypony to read without our various coments and out of character stuff. With all we've done, it will take a while, but I'll be doing it in chapters. I'll be uploading on over on fimfiction.net, if anypony want to see it. I'll be making small changes, mostly acting as editor to smooth out formatting and such.
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 04:07:14 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 17, 2011, 04:08:53 am
Aside from that, I'll most probably be away for an hour.
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 04:13:42 am
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 04:17:33 am
I gallop as quickly as I can towords the old well room, dodging ponies as best as I'm able.
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 04:27:47 am
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 04:32:49 am
"Open the door, now!"
He looks confused, but pulls out his keys to follow the order.
Post by: Dsarker on November 17, 2011, 04:33:52 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 17, 2011, 04:36:15 am
Charity's Journal 4th Limestone 98
Istbar Nangesugosh, [not the same one mentioned in my last post.] the glassmaking apprentice to the late Nanges Lisigbol, has been possessed by some spirit, and they have claimed her master's old magma glass furnace. We are watching her carefully.
5th Limestone 98
Cindy spotted a snacher sneaking up on the fort, however, it was too far away and by the time the milita had even reached for their weapons it was already gone.
Addendum, "Bad things always come in twos," or is it threes? I can't remember, but the point is Bebmal saw a second snatcher, and she kicked it's ass and sent it running. Peytrel should be proud of his mother. Not many earthpony mares would have stood up to a tentacle pony, armed with a knife, with nothing but their bare hooves.
10th Limestone 98
Threes. It was definately "bad things always come in threes." A third snatcher was spotted, but this one stumbled into one of our bears we keep tied up outside, the Discord spawn was fortunate that the bear was tied up or he wouldn't have gotten away so easily.
Addendum:
As the diplomat to the Zebra homeland was leaving, he inadvertently stumbled into a waiting Diomedian ambush. While he was killed, his screams let us know to sound the alarm. The militia and the guard, took to the walls, to defend Glitterglen, as the wood gatherers ran for the safety of the underground.
11th Limestone 98
The Diomedian's seem to be biding their time for now. Standing just outside of crossbow range. However, Istbar finished the object she was working on, just has the spirit (that I believe to be that of ol' Nanges) left. She has crafted an animal trap made of green glass, that she calls, the Pointy Escort, and it is certainly quite pointy.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/The%20Pointy%20Escort.png)
17th Limestone 98
With the Diomedian's sitting outside for more than a week already, and with the Zebra caravan becoming increasingly annoyed about being unable to leave, the militia has decided to sortie out and face the enemy. Starkey's squad engages in melee, while Otik provides covering fire. Meanwhile Khenal's squad will remain behind encase this is some Discordian ruse.
The battle went well. No casualties on our side, and all the enemy where killed. Our lasher, Rithlut is bleeding from her tail end, and Starkey's right wing is seriously messed up. (he got hit by some Darkbolt with a silver battle axe.) But no other injuries.
[And I think that's enough for tonight. I didn't include as detailed a transcript of the battle as I have in the past because it wasn't very interesting, mostly just the melee squad charging in and slaughtering the enemy. But feel free to put as many embelishments as you guys want on it when and if you decide to mention it. I'll imagine Commander Starkey at least will have a few things to say about a certain darkbolt.]
[I look forward to seeing your edited transcribed version of Glitterglen Khenal. Make sure you post a link to it when the first chapter is ready.]
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 04:49:59 pm
I don't respond, as i'm too busy crying in a fetal position as my leg bleeds heavily again.
"I NEED A DOCTOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" I scream through the tears.
Post by: DVNO on November 17, 2011, 04:54:39 pm
As Couth jostled through the overpacked claustrophobic hallways, he noticed a light emerald, red maned filly near covered in dirt sitting on a wood crate and penning a sign that read 'daddy has no job'.
I remember being in her hooves when I was a filly, having a to lie and cheat and steal to keep myself alive in the slums of the capital city. but at least back then, I could look up at the sky from the smatter of broken wood and hay I called a "bed" and I could literally see a dream without sleeping. an enormous sky castle, the crown jewel of the alicorn race, hovered over *insert our capitol's name here*. the castle consisted of a white stone polished to a fine mirrorlike state, anchored on mighty clouds. in there the royal godkin sits. in there, sits my princess *insert princesses name here*. getting in that castle was my reason to be, to keep fighting. it still is. she will be mine.
"here, kid, take these bits, 'hmph', *he grabs his coinpurse with his teeth and drops twenty bits* "you spend that wisely." he bows his head and tries to get on his way.
"thank you, kind sir!" the filly beamed
*her expression quickly changed and her eyes widen*
"uh, sir?
"sir, your cutie mark, sir?"
Couth looks at his flank as his mark, a winebarrel, or, it was. now it's a blotchy smudge that somewhat resembles a winebarrel.
"ARGHH" Couth screams
his flanks feel like they're bursting to flames!
the new cutie mark's lines bleed into a sharp focus and the skin's color changes. the new mark is a dagger.
"oh, that's not very low profile." Couth grimaces.
----
((what's the our capital's name and the princesses name?))
Post by: Rentorian on November 17, 2011, 05:56:35 pm
As I turn down a side corridor I break into a gallop, heading towards the hospital.
I slow down and open the door.
"Hey, Doc Bubbles. Psycho is down one of the corridors, screaming in pain. You're going to need to send someone down there pronto."
**********************************
Probably not gonna be up much longer, got work at 3:30 in the morning tomorrow. Sleep tends to make the shifts much easier.
Seeing that the doctor is busy I gather up a number of medical supplies and place them inside a pouch. As soon as I leave the door I move into a gallop to where Psycho was. As I neared a corner to the corridor I slow to a halt. Grabbing the pouch's drawstring's I spin it around the corner to where Psycho is lying.
You could just go and help him directly you know.
"No. That would lead to connections. Those just get in the way," I smile grimly. Not looking back to see what he is doing with the medicine I leave the corridor.
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 06:04:45 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 17, 2011, 06:15:54 pm
"What? That's never a good thing..."
He needs help.
"But..."
But you don't want to make a scene. You don't want people to remember you. But haven't you already botched that one?
I glare angrily at the wall in front of me.
You don''t want to let him die do you?
"Let's go."
I return to where Psycho is lying and pick up the supplies I had tossed him.
"Why is it that the most interesting of ponies are always the ones that do the stupidest things they can?"
Continuing to mutter to myself I start bandaging up Psycho's wounds.
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 06:18:04 pm
"the children are fire snakes........"
Post by: Rentorian on November 17, 2011, 06:36:16 pm
"How is he doing?"
He's delirious. His lights look... Broken.
"Of course they do," I mutter as I pull out a small vial of a sleeping drought I got from the hospital and pour it down Psycho's throat.
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 06:51:20 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 17, 2011, 07:11:09 pm
There were some sticks and some cloth down the hall.
"A stretcher eh? That brings back memories."
I quickly put together a simple field stretcher and load Psycho up onto it. Sighing as I trot back to the hospital.
Post by: Rentorian on November 17, 2011, 08:01:47 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 17, 2011, 08:50:18 pm
"for These ragged threads? be glad I'm in a rush." *Hurmph* *throws his marble bag*
Couth dawns his new gear. http://2chpencil.deviantart.com/art/Castlevania-Alucard-257359572 (http://2chpencil.deviantart.com/art/Castlevania-Alucard-257359572)
"right, what was I doing? I was going to talk to someone but who was that?"
*sees Khenal barreling right at him*
"Oh look, Khenal" Couth says in a stupidly dismissive tone *takes a double take*
"Oh GODS Khenal is coming for me!" he says with abject terror.
as a Bartender Couth hears many wild stories from his clientele. from what he's gathered this alicorn supposedly is part of the royal family, is either an angel or a daemon, and can read every pony's mind in the whole fortress at once. and Couth just shot his friend in he face with a crossbow.
Couth clenched his whole body and braced to be turned to ash/teleported to hell/ whatever alicorns do to criminal scum
"OUT OF THE WAY" Khenal barks
he checks the pony as he makes a mad dash to the hospital
"but-but HEY WAIT! I need to tell you something!"
Couth follows suit
----------
((great, now I'm playing barbie with my little pony))
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 10:14:50 pm
Edit: Derp, didn't see that. Making reaction now.
Post by: The Master on November 17, 2011, 10:58:02 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 17, 2011, 11:35:30 pm
Just in time for me to see Friesden dropping like a stone, a chain wrapped around her neck.
"Friesden!"
My horn flashes with brilliant light as I try to catch her before she reaches the end of the chain.
************
I'll let Dsarker decide if Khenal is in time. And not just because I like cliff hangers :P
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 12:17:05 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 02:36:04 am
((I'm going to bed, all I have to say is that i'm VERY disappointed.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 02:55:56 am
Friesden feels her fall halted. She opens her eyes to see right into Khenal's, with his horn lit, holding her up.
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 03:09:37 am
"Why, Friesden?"
**********
Oh good, I had no idea what to do if Khenal got to watch Friesden die before his eyes :) And, of course, rp happens right after the master leaves, heh.
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 03:15:13 am
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 03:32:30 am
*Sigh* "What am I going to do with you, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 03:44:58 am
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 03:52:32 am
...Somepony besides me.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 04:00:52 am
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 04:13:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 04:19:51 am
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 04:43:56 am
'I didn't want to live, but I needed to stay alive, to try to fix my mistakes. I had to make sure that they didn't die for nothing. That's why I harp on about other ponies and friendship so much, Keeper. I don't live my life for myself anymore. If you only think about yourself, things get out of focus and loose meaning very quickly. But if you live for others, every little thing takes on a huge meaning.
'I don't want to give up on her, Keeper. She desperately needs a friend, and she won't accept me as one. I fear nopony else is willing to offer to extend friendship to her, either. Dr. Bubbles might be able to, or that new pony, Granite. If they can't get through to her... I don't want to consider it. Suicide is not an option. Unfortunately, execution may be...'
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 04:51:26 am
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 04:56:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 05:05:49 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 18, 2011, 05:09:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 05:13:59 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 18, 2011, 05:14:54 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 18, 2011, 05:17:31 am
God.... Seriously guys, don't debate about this kind of thing. I just spilled coffee all over myself when I started screaming at the screen.No let them go. They have been building to this for awhile. Maybe some sort of resolution to Friesden's plot line can finally come out of this. Either death or steps being taken toward recovery, depending on what they decide of course. Can't just keep crazy murdering pony tied up forever right. Something has to give in one direction or the other.
Edit: Fixed a typo.
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 05:21:25 am
I carefully wrap the chain about Friesden before lifting her to my back and heading back to the jail. The guard at the well room door looks surprised as I exit with her.
"Uh, sir? What are you doing?"
"I'm taking her back to a real cell. I'll have two of the 'smugglers' share a cell, or escort one back here if they want the well room instead. Friesden is actually dangerous and needs a real cell."
********
Oh the things we get up to in this thread. However, I need to cut our debate short so I can get some dang sleep. Strongbeard is right, though. If Friesden continues with her sociopathic tendencies, Khenal may have no choice but to execute her.
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 05:24:19 am
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 12:55:22 pm
Because despite your best efforts you're a good guy. Negs supplied cheerfully as he grazed lightly on Psycho's pain.
"Didn't you already get enough to eat today?" I ask him irritably.
I take my meals when I can and where I can. Besides, he tastes good.
I roll my eyes and continue to ignore the looks that several ponies are giving me as I continue to drag Psycho along on his makeshift stretcher. Despite doing my best to ignore them I can't help but notice that there were far fewer than I had expected. I was carrying an unconscious military captain here! For a few seconds I felt a flash of indigence before calming myself. It was a good thing for people not to pay to much attention to me after all.
I was so caught up in my thoughts that I almost missed hearing what several ponies were gossiping about near the entrance to the hospital.
"I heard she tried to kill herself! Commander Khenal just barely managed to get there in time!"
The first pony's companion snorted at this, "I don't get why he's trying so hard to protect her. I heard she's killed a dozen ponies here!"
"No!" the first one gasped.
What do you think of that pony?
"Not sure. She tried to kill me, that isn't a good thing in my book."
I don't know either, Negs said slowly. She was tasty but... her colors are wrong. She's very broken.
"I already knew that Negs," I sighed. "Are you trying to get me to pity her?"
I'm not sure. But she was broken by a daemon right? Daemons.... I don't like daemons. he whispered pitiably.
"I know Negs. I know."
I silently nudge open the door to the hospital and drop Psycho off in his bed.
"And stay there this time," I say to his sleeping body.
Confident that he'll be there for a while, if only because of the drug, I head off in search of Khenal. He did promise he would be available and I finally think I have some of the right questions to ask him.
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 03:58:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 04:11:08 pm
"Aw, not again...Why am I here this time...?" I mutter, only vaguely remembering something about crawling and being in pain.
((I'm starting to think i'm being purposefully ignored.))
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 06:03:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 06:04:32 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 18, 2011, 06:05:01 pm
"I need to get to Khenal and tell him my testimony before the real facts come in. also I need to know what happened to charity, too." Couth whispers, doing the best he can to keep a low profile. "but first I need to get these guards out of the way."
he takes out his ale flask, takes a big swill and walks up to them.
"Halt. the hospital is closed to visitors. whoever you came to see will have to wait until this assassination business is taken care of." the beefy unicorn guard droned before Couth could say a word.
why would the hospital be closed off? is my little loose end still alive? Couth wondered nervously.
"oh, well I came here to see you two, actually," Couth lied
"see, I'm the bartender down at the Unshorn Fetlock and I came here to tell you all enlisted guards get free drinks tonight for bravely risking your lives for our fortress. and..."
"to calm everyone down after the..you know..assassination" he said in a more hushed tone.
"Attempted' assassination." the Guard growled
"yes, of course" let out with a bullshitter's smile.
'let me through so I can fix that.'Couth thought.
"well, come on then, lets get going!" the Pegasus guard revs his wings in excitement but the more battle worn guard was harder to fool. he anchored his partner to the ground and said "sorry to turn down your generous offer, but we stay here. Captains Orders."
"well, don't know about you but I'M getting my free ale!" the Pegasus guard snapped. he flies off.
"hey, wait! come back!" the other guard runs after him.
Couth sighs in relief and pulls out a rouges best friend; The lock-pick.
he works the lock in seconds.
when he opens the door he sees the notoriously psychotic Feresden free and Khenal magically whirling a goddamn chain around.
"yeah, Buck that!" Couth exclaimed. "I'll deal with with him later! let's see if Charity or Nicolta are still alive first."
he strides down the hallway, whistling a little tune he picked up called Twisted Nerve.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E84OWq6z3IQ&feature=related (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E84OWq6z3IQ&feature=related)
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 06:25:29 pm
I pause as I pass the hospital entrance on my way to Charity's room.
'...Where the hay are the guards? I told them to only go off shift after being relieved by the next shift!'
I scowl as I enter the hospital to make sure everything is alright. I have my spear with me, though not drawn. If there are no guards at the hospital entrance, something might be wrong. I cautiously make my way toward Charity's hospital room, hoping that I'm just being paranoid.
**************
Also, linky (http://www.fimfiction.net/story/2892/Glitterglen) for those who missed it. I'm still working out the kinks for how to transcribe this beast, and the chapters have been getting longer as I go. I think the latest chapter is going to be the average length for the rest of it, though. Which reminds me, anyone have the skills of an artist to make a cover image?
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 06:35:12 pm
"Oh yes, he was heading for Charity's hospital room."
"Thank you very much," I say as I walk away.
Told you we should ask for directions.
"It didn't work the last two times though"
I still won this time.
As I near my destination I see that the guards that were there when I last left have vanished.
That's never a good sign.
I didn't even bother agreeing as I entered the hospital.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 18, 2011, 07:10:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 07:16:46 pm
((I'm back. I typed that on my cell, so...yeah.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 18, 2011, 07:21:32 pm
i am busy...please talk for me.
Well how can I say no if you ask it like that.
After Psycho is returned to bed he is stitched up by the Doctor. After Carrot awakens Charity, still recovering from her injury though much better than before, comes to visit him.
"Hello Captain. I heard you tried to drag yourself out of this place and reopened all your wounds to do it." says the unicorn in a playful mocking tone.
Oh damn it. I'm retarded. I read that as "please talk to me" Buck. Never mind, forget I wrote anything.
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 07:39:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 07:45:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 07:50:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 18, 2011, 08:11:54 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 08:42:19 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 08:47:05 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 09:05:44 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 09:13:38 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 09:19:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 09:22:18 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 09:23:14 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 09:26:18 pm
...
|
|
\/
Post by: Dsarker on November 18, 2011, 09:30:15 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 09:37:36 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 10:14:31 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 10:22:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 18, 2011, 10:44:36 pm
In other news I grow tired and find that the only cure is forced unconsciousness.
I wish you all a good night!
Post by: DVNO on November 18, 2011, 11:04:05 pm
everyone's done for tonight? ok, i'll post my next entry at two-ish tommorw
Post by: The Master on November 18, 2011, 11:25:36 pm
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 12:38:08 am
Post by: Telgin on November 19, 2011, 12:53:11 am
I really hope Toady spares this part of the My little pony threads...
Me too. I just posted the start of a pony fort story. I hope he doesn't nuke it.
Anyway, posting to watch. I've read the whole thing since day one, but haven't actually participated. For now, I'm content to just see where the whole crazy Friesden thing goes.
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 12:55:41 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 19, 2011, 01:18:19 am
I really hope Toady spares this part of the My little pony threads...
I wouldn't worry. I'm pretty sure he was just talking about General MLP threads, Glitterglen is actually a Dwarf Fortress Community fort, albeit with a pony mod, (and with some uncontrollable outbursts of free-form Role Playing) and thus is exactly what this part of the forums is for.
I saw Venture sitting outside Friesden's cell this afternoon. I think she was trying to get through to the poor mare. Didn't sound like she was making much progress, but I didn't stay to listen to the whole thing.
Charity's Journal 28th Limestone 98
Seems that we had a jail break today. No it's not who you might expect. It was Ms. Pillomino. She used her knowledge of masonry to find a weak point in the cell and make a break for it. Although she didn't try to flee the town. Just ran to the bar for a drink, before Khenal showed up and took her back. She did not resist. Seemed she really really wanted a drink.
(The Nurse Kil had given every pony water except for Pillomino, and then ran off to get a drink herself and then went on break, and then went to a party. With the Doctor busy treating injuries from the last ambush, and Pillomino very dehydrated, and nopony else bringing water, death was a possibility, so I assigned a dog to be tied to her chain, and when that was done, she ran for the drink stockpile, and got one before Khenal dragged her back to one of the new cells.)
However, in other news, Cryptson has been parading around in a fine suit of Bismuth Bronze and Steel Armour, and carrying a masterful Steel Pick. He hasn't left me or the kids alone since the accident. It's sweet, and I'm happy to keep him close, but he can be kind of smothering, although, I'd rather him stay to close, than too far until this assassin is caught.
7th Sandstone 98
Tunur (our armourer) spotted a Keshi lurking around outside the fortress. And it ran off at the sight of him.
(And the game just crashed, with . Rendering all the micromanaging I've been doing for the last hour, fixing up a mistake in my military uniforms, and tinkering with jobs in Dwarf Therapist moot. Buck it. I'll try again another day.)
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 04:04:07 am
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 05:51:23 pm
that can't be good
--------
OOC; M'aiq the Liar in told me he saw a mudcrab today in skyrim and I punched his head off in rage :P
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 05:55:09 pm
"Yes," I say as I step up my pace and head to where the cry was heard.
****************************************
You killed M'aiq!? How could you! So what if he saw a mudcrab!? You should be ashamed of yourself. >:(
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 06:11:44 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 06:22:07 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 06:29:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 06:39:01 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 06:43:13 pm
"Pit damned stallion doesn't know when to stay down!" I muttered angrily. "Still, if something's up it's better to have more rather than less."
Not waiting to hear any objections I barge into Charity's room after Psycho.
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 06:49:28 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 06:55:28 pm
You aren't too normal either, Negs chided me.
"You shut up," I tell him. "And not a word out of you either," I say before Psycho can comment.
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 06:56:52 pm
I quickly bolt out the door, remembering that I wrote an autobiography and HAD to show it to Khenal.
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 07:00:00 pm
"Don't say it!" I say sharply to Negs.
Wouldn't dream of it, he replies loftily.
Grumbling to myself I start looking around Charity's room.
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 07:23:46 pm
he barrels through the door and sees Charity in terrible pain ... listening to the drunk ramblings of an earthpony who decided to barge into her room. Dr. Bubbles and guards are entranced, hanging on his every word, however.
"-and then she says 'Oi, i'm just usin' theh talents my momma gave meh.' " Couth was badly mimicking Domidian accent, haphazardly waving his flask around.
the small crowd around him laughs
"And that's the story of when I hired a tentacle pony prostitute." Couth Beamed
*eyes the new pony in the room*
"hi, Couth Darkmane, pleased to meet you." Couth raises his hoof in a friendly gesture.
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 07:26:48 pm
((EDIT: It still says
Quote
*eyes the two new ponies in the room*:P))
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 07:49:50 pm
******************************************************************************
"Name's Granite."
I look over to see if anything is wrong with Charity, I see nothing wrong with her.
Nothing looks wrong with her to me.
I nod slowly as Negs says this.
"I'm surprised you managed to talk your way into here. I thought almost everypony wasn't allowed in here unless they were a foal or a guard," I say looking pointedly at the gaurds in the room.
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 08:04:19 pm
oh, I know everything about it Couth thought
------------
I thought Khenal put Friesden in jail already and he's coming to charity's room
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 08:06:56 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 19, 2011, 08:12:46 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 08:20:18 pm
"I heard he was taking Friesden to a cell," one markspony replied.
"I thought he was heading here," another said.
"He's in his office!" one of the foals cried out.
Soon enough a cacophony of voices erupted in the room, all certain they knew where Khenal was and what he was doing.
"SILENCE!" I roar. Even the various military ponies stop bickering and snap to attention.
You still got it don't ya? Never gonna understand how you do that. Negs commented wonderingly.
"From what I've seen today he'll show up here sometime. So it might be best if we all just wait right here for him. Any objections?"
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 08:33:19 pm
she busts up my illegal metal trading ring, she imprisons ten of my employees, kills two of my friends, maims a third and yet she has the audacity to order me around like one of her toy solders. what a mercy I've given her by letting her live.
"yes, of course, Granite." Couth smiles.
Post by: Rentorian on November 19, 2011, 08:57:57 pm
I don't like him. He has a lot of red.
"Vermillion, crimson, lust? Which one?"
Mostly crimson, a little vermillion.
"Damn, he's hiding things."
So are you.
"He's hiding anger at someone, and he's putting up a good front for it."
Anger... Which one was that?
"Several of the reds."
You ponies are so strange.
I lay down and keep my eyes on Couth.
************************************************************
I'm gonna go to sleep soon, got work tomorrow. So if anyone needs Granite for something just talk for him. Just remember he never thinks anything, always says things out loud so he doesn't confuse his thoughts for Negs voice.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 19, 2011, 09:02:24 pm
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 09:17:19 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 09:20:01 pm
Just a reminder to you two; Please don't assume control of named ponies without express permission.
ARE YOU SAYING YOU WOULDN'T BE VEXED BY MY WILES? :P
jk, duly noted, won't happen again
also, where is everybody?
Post by: Dsarker on November 19, 2011, 09:21:37 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 19, 2011, 09:35:04 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 09:56:50 pm
Couth takes this time to check up on how his good friend Nicolta Tesla is doing.
"whats the prognosis Dr. Bubbles?" Couth said with some forged sympathy in his voice.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 19, 2011, 09:58:38 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 10:18:41 pm
"mm-hm" Couth said, distracted.
he ransacked Nicolta's personal effects while the good doctor was talking.
Damn. no forged work orders, where could they be?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 19, 2011, 10:25:41 pm
he ransacked Nicolta's personal effects while the good doctor was talking.
(You're doing this in front of everypony? Really? ???)
"Hey you!" Charity calls out to Couth, "What are you doing? That's Tesla's stuff. You have no right to go snooping through it. Leave it alone."
Post by: DVNO on November 19, 2011, 10:34:40 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 19, 2011, 10:55:53 pm
Charity growls.
"You!? Don't you realize that stuff is evidence. You're not a guard, you're not a detective, you're not even in the militia, you're just a bartender. It's not your job to investigate this. So just sit down, and either tell us what your lead is and go, or wait for the Captain and tell him, and he will investigate, as that is his job, not your's mudpony. Or are you accusing Nicolta of being behind this? Because if you are know that he's already a suspect and will be investigated. By those I trust to do the job right."
After finishing her rant Charity's right front hoof hovers over her bandaged injury. Her wound seems to be irritated when she yells.
Post by: The Master on November 19, 2011, 11:53:44 pm
Post by: DVNO on November 20, 2011, 12:04:25 am
Couth shrugs and laughs quietly to himself
"your right, this good Samaritan taking time out of his busy day to help you is totally out of his bounds." couth snarked
*he takes a seat*
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 12:06:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 12:09:22 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 12:17:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 12:20:14 am
(Uh, uh-oh. Um. We have incoming fun. Prepare yourselves.)
Charity's Journal 7th Slate 98
I told them. I told those ponies. I told them that no amulets were to be exported from Glitterglen. But did they listen? NO! They did it anyway. I can't allow such blatant disrespect for our laws to go on. I've acquired a list of those ponies responsible for this outrage. 10 of them. Including Pillomino and Thundersplinter! I thought we could trust those two at least. I've drawn lots and the four losers will be beaten, while the rest will spend time in prison. I've given the order to the guard.
________________________________
And so the beatings began. First up was Bokbon Shigosotil, a loyal member of Starkey's own squad, she was beaten by Officer: Istlig Konabor, in the Trade Depot where her horrendous crime took place, until she was dead, a tragedy, that will undoubtedly, put a divide between the militia and the guard.
Among those imprisoned we have Pillomino, and Venture's father, (200 and 100 days respectively) among others. Due to overcrowding of the cells, Pillomino, is being forced to share a cell with...Friesden. (Fun times)
The second victim, of Officer: Istligs beatings, Nanges Lisigbol, a double legend, in both glass-making and in the operation of siege weapons. He was beaten in the main hallway, trying to run away the entire time, but being struck again and again, until, the officer smashed his head between his hammer and the wall, killing the poor pony.
The third to be beaten. Thundersplinter, was sitting in the dinning hall, attending a party thrown by the Count Consort Cryptson, when suddenly Officer Tunur, came up and kicked her in the leg, bite her in the upper body, and proceeded to administer justice with his silver war-hammer, that ranks among the finest of weapons Ironya has ever produced. Thunder became enraged and lashed out, but was ineffectual and quickly knocked back down by the powerful hammer blows. But then, the beating stopped, and the officer left her, a broken shadow of her former self, but alive. A passing earthpony, then carried the broken pegasus to the hospital, so she could recover.
[/i]
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Thunder%27s%20beating.png)
And the final beating was dealt to one of our more skilled butchers who while bruised, has survived. (finally got him to drop that damn Steel War Hammer and use a training weapon for his beatings.)
_____________________________________________________
Charity's Journal 10th Slate, 98
Katak, a low skilled, earthpony, metal crafter has been possessed.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 12:22:35 am
Post by: DVNO on November 20, 2011, 12:52:48 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 01:07:11 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 20, 2011, 01:12:21 am
(Charity will probably remain quiet unless spoken too, until Khenal arrives. Assuming Khenal [the player] get's on at all tonight.)
(Don't worry The Master, if Khenal [the player again.] is gone for a number of days, I'll take over for him until such time as he were to return. Not preferable, but better than letting the thread die. However, it is Saturday night, he's probably just out doing real world things.)
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 01:46:17 am
Down the hall from Charity's hospital room, I hear the raised voices of Charity and an unknown pony. Though Charity doesn't sound scared, I'm already a bit on edge with the guards at the entrance being gone. I rush to the doorway and do my best to look authoritative.
"What's going on in here?" I ask loudly, my glowing horn weaving an aura about my spear. Though it isn't drawn, I'm ready to change that at a moment's notice.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 02:07:44 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 02:13:54 am
"Khenal! I wrote a book!!!" I say excitedly, pulling a book out of my satchel and shoving it in his face, not noticing the large crowd and everything.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 20, 2011, 02:19:02 am
Edit: Fixed an error.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 02:31:57 am
I give Carrot a smile to let him know I'm not simply brushing him off, then head over to the pony Charity indicated may know something.
"Hello sir. What can you tell me of the assassination attempt?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 02:35:22 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 02:46:16 am
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 02:47:55 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 02:51:32 am
"Oops...Anyway, please khenal? I really want you to see it! It's my autobiography!" I say, exitited as a foal.
(props to those who get the reference)
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 03:14:08 am
'...At least he's already in the hospital'
"Your autobiography?" I look a bit incredulous at the book Carrot is waving about, then shrug and float it so I can start reading.
********
Khenal is fast taking an attitude to Carrot that the others take to Pinkie in the show. In other words: Carrot is Carrot.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 03:32:58 am
When Psycho was a young filly, Mesa and Psycho were doing their usual weekend routine, which of course meant hurling a apple at pigeons. It was Mesa's turn to throw the apple, so he did, but of course he missed. It fell into the street and Mesa ran to get it back. Mesa never did see that bull barreling down the street. It hit him and it fatally wounded him. The force of the impact knocked him all the way to Psycho's feet. Mesa looked up at Psycho with those emerald green eyes, smiled, and passed away.
We fast-forward five years, and now Psycho is an adult pony. Psycho's dad died from an alcoholic overdose on his last birthday. Luckily, he now has a wonderful girl-friend named Esther Quirk. Ah Esther, how they would hold each other, and the way they danced...how sad things that all good things must have an end. Esther was talking Psycho's ear off as usual, when suddenly, all the lights in the city went dark. Terrified, as this had never happened before, Esther got up from the bench she and Psycho were sitting on and wondered around aimlessly. When the lights came back on about a minute later, Esther was sleeping on the ground in a pool of ketchup. That's what Psycho continued to tell himself as she was buried in her grave.
Psycho was devastated. His best friend was dead, now his girl friend was gone as well! He decided to investigate who killed her. Psycho searched the area around where Esther died, and found a torn piece of cloth. It had the signature logo of the Darkbolts on it. Psycho snapped on that day, and he vowed that he would not rest until he killed every last Darkbolt on the planet.
Psycho didn't anticipate that there were others out there who also hated the Darkbolts. After hearing about these people he decided that he'd join up with them. He rose through the ranks, until he became Captain. Psycho is tired of putting up with the Darkbolts reign of terror. This is his story, and it has only just begun.
((WARNING: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR EXAGGERATIONS.))
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 03:39:40 am
I give Carrot a concerned look.
"Carrot, is all this true?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 03:43:50 am
"Yeah...I wrote it originally for myself, in case my memories goes again...but I decided to publish it after looking it over." A tear rolls down my cheek, as I recollect Mesa and Esther.
"Oh Esther...why did you have to die...?" I say, depression now completely taking over.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 03:59:11 am
"Thank you for letting me read it, Carrot. I...never knew how hard a life you've had."
I place a hoof across Carrot's withers.
"And yet, you still continue on and never give up. I think Mesa and Ester would be proud of you, Carrot. You've overcome so much, and are a dear friend."
I give Carrot a warm smile, though there are tears behind my eyes.
"I...I'm sorry I failed you back in Tailentranced. I'm just glad that you were strong enough to eventually overcome my mistakes."
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 04:17:04 am
((Why do people ignore my posts so much...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7I_MCelk2w&feature=colike and yes, this is the music for the current scene.))
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 04:43:30 am
****************
I'm about to pass out. Shall we call it a scene then? Khenal can check Testla's stuff behind the scenes and I'll post the relevant things I'd expect to find later.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 04:45:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 03:26:46 pm
THE NEXT DAY! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQtZJQtBe8E
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 03:31:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 03:55:15 pm
Khenal's Sequel, Chapter 2
Notes on what Nicolta Testla had when he was discovered in the caverns.
Several pieces of jewelry, likely of his own make. Slightly worn, nothing really distinguishing apart from the quality.
Tool belt, empty. Looks stiffened from water damage. Also had several small tears in the leather. Had a bit of paper crammed in one of the pockets, but totally destroyed by water.
It looks like he fell into the cavern river not long after doing some work. He's a dedicated pony, but I doubt he'd purposely go for a swim with his tools. Looks like he had a rough ride down the river, likely ending in the cavern lake. The paper might have been a clue if it weren't for the water damage. As it is now, it's just trash. His tools missing is also a bit concerning, and I doubt anypony would be able to find any of them in the river or cavern lake.
Nothing to take him of the suspect list, apart from the fact that he knows how I investigate. I doubt he was involved in making the trap, but I'll have to take a look at it before I can really say anything.
I nod to myself before closing my book and turning to the guard in the room and pointing to the unconscious witness with a wing.
"Make sure he's alright and take his statement when he's ready to give it. I'm headed to Charity's personal chambers to check the trap and take it apart for evidence."
As I leave the hospital, I notice the two missing guards are back. I scowl before addressing them.
"You two will be doing cavern patrol for the next month. When I say to guard the hospital, I mean guard the hospital! You two know better than to shirk your duties like that."
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 03:59:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 04:05:29 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 04:11:58 pm
Finally. Khenal was just here. I tried to wake you up but...
"Right, right. Must have been more tired than I thought," I mutter absentmindedly.
I get up and stretch, working out the kinks in my legs and stretching my sleeping muscles.
"He just left right? The main door?"
Yes
"And the hunt is on yet again," I sigh as I trot out the door to try and find Khenal.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 04:31:34 pm
'I should have rememberd that actual tools are needed to take apart a trap, ugh. At least this is the last of the paperwork for today... What's that thumping?'
I quickly finish the rest of the form, then head out my office, following the dull thump to Friesden's cell. Once there, I gasp in horror at what I see.
"Friesden, stop that, you're hurting yourself!"
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 04:57:45 pm
Unlucky?
"Can you see anything that might be him?"
Yes. I will look at the millions of colors all around this outpost, magically be able to tell who they are even when hidden behind walls, and lead you directly to him.
"No need for that much sarcasm, I'm just desperate for ideas."
Several minutes pass in silence.
Granite... What was purple again?
"Pain. Different shades for the severity and type of pain."
Someone has a lot of purple.
"Then it's probably coming from the hospital."
But the hospital isn't in that direction. It's somewhere else. Maybe Khenal will be there.
"Because a high ranking pony doesn't have anything better to do than check if somepony is in pain right?"
We should still check. He showed up in other places with lots of purple.
I stay silent for a moment. "Fine, but if this is a trick to get you another meal I'm going to be very angry."
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 05:16:39 pm
There's a look of joy on Friesden's face.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 05:20:34 pm
I look at her, dumbfounded.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 05:23:06 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 05:34:38 pm
"Negs. There's a wall in the way."
Oh... Go around it then.
I sigh as I turn down a another corridor.
Soon enough I hear Negs call out again, Keep going and you'll be right next to it.
I trot slowly down the halls.
"This area... What is it? So many doors, is one of them open a little?"
I stop suddenly as I realize where I am.
"This is the prison isn't it?"
Maybe, the purple lights are up ahead.
I slow my pace and creep silently towards the slightly open door, hoping ot be able to see or hear something that will explain why a prisoner would be in so much pain.
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 20, 2011, 05:43:22 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:09:50 pm
"What the hay is going on?!" I yell.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:10:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:12:24 pm
It's a television show.((I sent him this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a27oq09lhPw hopefully our good friend blunty3000 can explain to this poor 14 year old who's living under a rock in Antarctica without a television what My Little Pony is.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:13:03 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 06:19:40 pm
"Yeah, Khenal is there too..."
I'm suddenly pushed to the side as Psycho rushed by me.
"This is getting ridiculous! Is there some sort of higher force that keeps certain people running into each other!?"
Looks like it.
"Shut up."
No longer caring about whether or not I'm noticed I head into the room and look at Khenal and Friesden questioningly.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:29:18 pm
"Whoops...sorry...Oh horseapples, why won't Friesden stop trying to kill herself?!" I mutter worriedly.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 06:35:28 pm
"I...don't think she's trying to kill herself, actually. Uh, but she definitely needs some medical attention for her leg. Can I trust you two with her while I go get somepony to help her?"
I turn to Friesden. "I'm glad you can feel, Friesden, but your leg needs help. Please don't injure yourself further while I go get one of the doctors."
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:37:20 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 06:39:24 pm
There's no orange, suicide has orange right?
"Yes, yes, suicide has oragne," I mutter.
Looking back at Khenal I say, "I don't think she'll commit suicide, ponies usually have more... despair when they're contemplating suicide, she doesn't have that right now. Which makes this whole thing even scarier."
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:41:12 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:43:07 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 06:43:57 pm
She's weird. She doesn't have many negative feelings... She's very... dark right now. It's not right, she should have something more than that... It's scary right now.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:45:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:46:57 pm
Psycho passes out after seeing all the blood.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 06:49:19 pm
**********
You guys and your posting speed, this is my third change from you guys posting :P
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 06:51:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:52:00 pm
Psycho begins mumbling the name 'Esther' over and over repeatedly.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 06:52:22 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 06:55:15 pm
"Esther...Esther...Esther..."
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 06:58:01 pm
"Yes, pleasure and pain. What you feel in your bleeding leg is pain and it means you should stop beating it against the wall. Pleasure is a little more abstract, though. Um, you could go feel your bed. It's fairly soft and nice."
I then notice Carrot.
"...Not good."
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:00:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 07:00:50 pm
Well, he's still got legs, hasn't he? Surely the doc won't mind if he goes for a stroll so long as he doesn't try to fly anywhere. He decides to go pay a visit to Khenal, something about a book he wanted him to read?
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:01:57 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:02:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:08:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:09:06 pm
"Please just humor me and rub your other leg on your mattress there. It should feel better than bashing your leg against the wall."
*************
So much insanity, so little time :P
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 07:11:31 pm
I sigh to myself and speak up, "Khenal. Do you want me to try and get anything to... restrain either of these two?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:12:05 pm
((Yes, it's you-know-who again.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:14:55 pm
"No. There is nothing."
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:20:15 pm
"Granite, run! Find Starkey and tell him Carrot's eyes are glowing!"
My horn flashes brighter as I begin trying to bind this daemon that simply refuses to leave us alone.
**************
I'm about to name your daemon Cockroach for how tough it is to kill, Carrot :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:22:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 07:25:21 pm
'Oh clop no...'
'I don't have to go in there. I can go get back in bed and have a nice rest, without having to deal with demons, lunatics, Carrot. I can just turn around and walk away right now.'
ESTHER
*THWACK*
ESTHER
*THWACK*
ESTHER
*THWACK*
'...no, no I can't.'
Starkey breaks into a trot, heading for the jail.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:25:32 pm
"That's not going to work this time, Khenal. Now, straight to business. I want a new body and you will do! No, don't thank me, THANK SCHMOE FOR DYING!" Says the familiar daemon.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:26:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:28:26 pm
The Keeper thinks.
"You might have to go into his mind. Other than that, nothing."
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:28:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:30:44 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:33:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:33:38 pm
The ethereal chains slow for a moment as I establish a link with Carrot's mind, ready for the daemon to try to strike.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:35:14 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 07:37:12 pm
"Shut UP NEGS!" I yell at him as I dash down the hall away from the prison.
"Damn it, have I met Starkey? I don't think so, this is bad."
Daemon Daemon Daemon Daemon Daemon Daemon Daemon
"I SAID SHUT UP!"
My shout startles several nearby ponies, seeing them I get an idea.
"You! Go find Starkey! You need to tell him Carrot's eyes are glowing. Apparently he'll know what that means!"
The two ponies mill around for a few seconds wondering what to do.
"I SAID NOW!"
As they both run off I turn around.
Where are we going?!
"We're going back. If we don't we might not have a chance like this to keep the daemon from messing with us again!"
Resolutely squashing Negs' protests I gallop back to the room.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:41:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:43:08 pm
As the chains shatter, I reshape the backlash into a new spell, siphoning off the magic of the linking spell I was preparing as well. With a flash, I teleport a short distance and land in the path the mist is taking.
"Your fight is here, daemon!"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:45:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:48:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 07:49:01 pm
"Buh-hwah? Khenal?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:51:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:51:52 pm
'You didn't think I'd be that easy to take, did you?'
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 07:54:14 pm
The daemon looks for the mirror that isn't reflecting anything, and smashes that.
((I know the mirror trick, and I just solved it, DEAL-WITH-IT-FACE))
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 07:57:15 pm
"No no no no no no no no NO!" I gibber. "Negs! We need to go in there after him!"
Go in?! Leave here?! And go in there?! After the daemon?!
"Can you follow it or not?!"
Only if Khenal will let us in! But going after a daemon. It's not good, very not good!
My body starts to twitch away form Khenal, angrily I snap down on Negs' attempts to make us leave.
"We're going to do this. Two of us may not be able to defeat a daemon but with the help of him we might have a chance."
I turn to Khenal.
"If you can hear me give me permission to enter your mind. Negs can't do that without your consent!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 07:57:25 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 07:58:43 pm
"Khenal, friend, are you alright?"
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 07:59:24 pm
"yes...can't hold...forever...too fast."
**********
:P He is a master of mental magic, after all.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:01:27 pm
The daemon creates an explosion, shattering all the mirrors and hurling himself all the way to the keeper.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 08:03:15 pm
He shimmers, and where there once was one, there is now fifty. Each of them shimmer and become fifty again. And so on, and so forth.
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:06:08 pm
I might be able to drain the daemon a little, but it will hurt us both. A lot.
"Do it."
I fling the gate in my mind wide open and lights of emotion spring up around me, Khenal is a strange mixture of his own colors as well as an angry almost black light smothering him. I can almost see the faint tinkling of a third set of lights underneath it all. Negs reaches out and grabs at the daemon's lights and pulls hard.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:08:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:08:46 pm
"OH HORSEAPPLES!!!! THAT'S SO UNFAIR!" The daemon yells in a spoiled tone of voice.
The daemon comes out of Khenal, and into Granite.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 08:10:56 pm
The pseudo-Keepers turn into thousands of cells, each surrounding the daemon, and each stronger and more secure than the last.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:12:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:13:59 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:16:20 pm
"Good," I mutter as waves of pain sweep over me. "Where is it now?"
The earring! it's in there! It might not be able to escape! We're safe!
I notice the pain on Psycho's face. "Oh pit no."
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:17:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 08:17:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:19:56 pm
The daemon goes silent. Psycho turns dead white as the lack of a blood flow sets in.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:21:57 pm
Only then do I notice Carrot's still form.
"...Carrot?"
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:22:46 pm
"Yeah, I'm not sure we can do anything for him..." I mutter sadly.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:26:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:29:28 pm
I kneel by Carrot, reaching out a hoof to try to find his pulse.
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:31:39 pm
I don't like death. There should be colors...
"I don't like it either Negs," I mutter.
Why can I see death?
"It's part of what gave birth to you remember?"
I... shouldn't eat it should I? Negs asks as he slowly pulls his hands away from the fading lights.
"No. Never eat a death. It... does things to you. Bad things."
I want to sleep now.
"Alright." I slowly close the gate in my mind and seal him off completely. His presence slowly vanishes from my mind and I'm completely alone again. I suppress a shudder at the silence in my mind.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:32:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 08:33:31 pm
Starkey approaches Carrot.
"He... h-he can't be... Khenal, the thing, with the lightning, do it!"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:35:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:37:38 pm
I lay my head on Carrot, tears flowing down my face and fighting back wracking sobs.
Then Starkey's words ignite my hope! I immediately move my head, pointing my horn at Carrot's heart. My horn flashes as I send a shock into his heart, hoping that all is not lost.
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:39:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:40:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:43:57 pm
"Come on, Carrot! Don't give up now!"
A second charge is sent into his heart.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:45:16 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:46:21 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:47:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 08:50:24 pm
"You've bested the reaper before, Carrot! Now get off your haunches and remind him you aren't finished yet!"
A third dose of voltage courses through Carrot's heart.
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 08:56:38 pm
Psycho eyes slowly open, and a faint smile appears. He looks at his ever faithful friends, and says,
"You guys are the best...I mean it...Especially you, Khenal...Thank you. Starkey, thank you. Thank you all..."
He says before passing out. This time, with a pulse. Incredibly weak, but a pulse.
Post by: Rentorian on November 20, 2011, 08:59:10 pm
"Let's get him to the hospital, hopefully he'll stay there until he's healed this time.."
************************************************************
I'm gonna go to sleep now. Got work tomorrow, you know the drill.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 09:10:10 pm
"Thank you, everypony. Without you, I wouldn't have been able to bind Cockroach. And I wouldn't have remembered the shock spell. It's thanks to you ponies, my friends, that Carrot is alive and Cockroach is hopefully gone for good."
'Thank you too, Keeper. With you on defense, I was able to concentrate on dealing with Cockroach.'
Then I realize that we have a pony here who was just revived and still has a weak pulse, and Friesden still hasn't gotten attention for her leg.
"Thank you, Granite. Would you also please send a doctor down here for Friesden?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 09:11:30 pm
I'm gonna go to sleep now. Got work tomorrow, you know the drill.
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 09:16:36 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 09:18:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 09:25:40 pm
"So, how's your day been?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 09:28:17 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 09:31:08 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 20, 2011, 09:33:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 20, 2011, 09:36:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 09:41:26 pm
I notice that Friesden is working her way through the pillow.
"Uh, Friesden, could you come here for a moment, please?"
*****************
As far as the earring goes, I knew I was going to use it for something as soon as you gave it to Carrot, I just didn't know what. Glad you liked it :)
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 09:48:25 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 10:35:33 pm
((RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGE! YOU GUYS ARE KILLING ME!!!!))
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 11:20:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 11:26:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 20, 2011, 11:33:30 pm
"Captain Carrot. What is with this singing? Do you not realize this is a hospital and a certain," she pauses to decide on the correct word, "decorum is required?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 11:40:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 11:42:35 pm
-------
Friesden stops thumping herself against the wall and obediently walks over to Khenal.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 20, 2011, 11:44:07 pm
Charity's guard looks on in bewilderment, confused as to what he should be doing.
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 11:51:18 pm
'...That sounded better in my head. Why do I find her more disturbing like this than when she was trying to kill herself?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 20, 2011, 11:55:22 pm
"I can't remember," she answers eventually.
She starts tapping her injured hoof on the floor.
"Why? What's happening?"
Post by: The Master on November 20, 2011, 11:56:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 20, 2011, 11:58:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 12:02:20 am
She thinks again. "I wonder what hurt feels like?"
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 12:04:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 12:05:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 12:08:23 am
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:08:55 am
HAPPY TO SEE THOSE NICE YOUNG MEN IN THEIR CLEAN WHITE COATS, HAHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!" I say, jumping out of the hospital bed and grabbing a scalpel.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:11:38 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 12:15:32 am
"Amplify" she whispers as her horn glows and pluses out waves of off white light. And then her voice, magnified many times radiates throughout the fortress. "THIS IS COUNTESS CHARITY! EMERGENCY IN THE HOSPITAL! ALL GUARDS AND DOCTORS PLEASE REPORT!"
Meanwhile, her guard, still confused but seeing Psycho grabbing a scalpel stands between the Countess and his Captain, only to drop to the ground, spilling his bolts, and grabbing his ears as the sound of Charity's magically amplified voice strikes him.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 12:15:52 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h94dIE_4b6w
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:18:00 am
I think this fits more.((
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h94dIE_4b6w
Psycho, unphased by the megaphone effect, lunges at Charity, determined to stop her from "taking him away".
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 12:25:37 am
I pause, trying to figure out a way to show Friesden happiness, before Charity's alarm sounds.
"And this is me in a panic! I'll be back, please don't hurt yourself more!"
I dash off to the hospital, grabbing my spear as I leave.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:26:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 12:28:51 am
Friesden continues to wait.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 12:30:23 am
'Damn it, used to much magic, I can barely stand now. Need more practice.'
Her horn glows faintly, Psycho feels a telekinetic tug on the blade, but it isn't particularly strong. The guard, temporarily deafened by the sound, begins to stand up.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:34:38 am
"Please stand still, IT'S HARD TO KILL YOU WHEN YOU'RE MOVING! AHAAHHAHAHAHHAH!!! YOU THOUGHT IT WAS A JOKE AND SO YOU LAUGHED, YOU LAUGHED WHEN I HAD SAID THAT LOOSING YOU WOULD MAKE ME FLIP MY LID.. RIGHT??? I KNOW YOU LAUGHED, I HEARD YOU LAUGH, YOU LAUGHED YOU LAUGHED AND LAUGHED AND THEN YOU LEFT, BUT NOW YOU KNOW I'M UTTERLY MAD... AND..." Psycho's voice trails off as he passes out. Charity notices something that looks like a syringe sticking out of Psycho's back.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 12:41:14 am
Charity notes the syringe, but instead decides to...
'Gods I'm sorry for what I'm about to do, Carrot.'
Charity lowers her horn toward Psycho, and runs straight at him. Should he dodge, or get knocked out of the way, she will continue past him to the door and then turn back to face him.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 12:43:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 12:46:50 am
"Countess, uh, please stand down?" He asks, clearly unsure of what to do in this situation
*************
Option 3, the guard!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 12:49:07 am
Edit: (So much for Charity's bad-ass moment. ::))
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 01:00:28 am
Thankfully, everypony heard the alarm and the stairways and corridors are almost totally empty. As I near the hospital, I see the two guards at the entrance are still holding steady, unsure if they should rush to Charity or stay where they are. As I rush past them without a word, they decide that staying put is likely the correct choice.
***************
Sorry about stealing your thunder, Strongbeard. :-\
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 01:03:40 am
Sorry about stealing your thunder, Strongbeard. :-\
(No problem, Khenal. I had had some plans for after her initial charge, but this is fine too.)
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:13:08 am
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 01:18:13 am
'Charity, dazed but looks fine. Carrot out with something in his neck. Guard looking confused.'
"Where is the assassin?! Which way did they go?"
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:19:38 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 01:19:57 am
Edit: Modifying post to correspond with something I missed.
Charity shakes her head and comes back to her senses. "Khenal! Carrot had a knife, he tried to attack me."
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:20:56 am
Psycho's voice trails off as he passes out.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 01:27:50 am
I take a closer look at Carrot and notice the scalpel. I also take note of the syringe and it's label.
'...Why do we have a syringe of hallucinogen? And why is it so clearly labeled?'
Still a bit confused, I levitate the scalpel and syringe away from him.
"So...what happened?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 01:28:41 am
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:29:59 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 01:32:47 am
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:36:11 am
"You...YOU! YOOOO DID THEESH TO MEH... YOU WAN' TO TAK' M' AWAH! Yarrgin...blah...Zzzz..." Psycho blabbers.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 01:40:21 am
He gulps before talking, clearly choosing his words carefully.
"It's like the Countess said, sir, except Carrot passed out before she could get to him. I was a bit dazed from the alarm, but I saw somepony charging someponyelse on the ground and I had to stop them. Uh, sorry about checking you, Countess?"
I levitate the syringe closer so I can get a good look at it.
"Who else was in the room?"
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:43:41 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 01:47:33 am
Charity looks over to the guard. "It's okay, I should have told you to cover your ears before I used that spell."
"To answer your question Khenal, I didn't notice anypony else. However, Psycho was already babbling when we came in."
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:49:11 am
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 01:53:30 am
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 02:05:23 am
'Not good, I'm too drained from the daemon to safely cast the sleep spell.'
I continue blocking and parrying Carrot's wild attacks, motioning for the guard to get Charity to safety.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 02:09:43 am
However, as there is only one way in or out of this room, he has turned all of his attention to the door. The young unicorn colt, Cobalt, sees this as his chance. While nopony is looking he makes his way over to his mother's bookshelf, and levitates a singular old red leather bound book, with a black leather strap binding it shut, with a silver clasp. He has long wanted to read this one, but his mother wouldn't allow it. With eveypony distracted he floats it over to his bed and hides it under his mattress. No pony is the wiser.
The guard hurries Charity from the room, as they pass the two guards outside, Charity barks at them. "What are you doing standing around. Go help Khenal!"
The guard takes Charity home.
(And with that I bow out for tonight. Good luck everypony.)
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 02:12:32 am
"So, miss Friesden... you said you, ah, wanted to know about feelings?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 02:13:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 02:19:32 am
He turns to the side a bit, showing off his bandaged wing.
"Like for example, my wing here. It got cut very badly in a battle. If I had tried to fly with a wound like that, I would have torn it even wider, and I might not have ever been able to fly again. Pain tells me not to do that."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 02:30:42 am
"Are you sure? I feel great!"
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 02:35:54 am
"Come on, Carrot. Snap out of it!"
He continues foaming and babbling around the knife handle in his teeth, never pausing in swinging his blade. Fortunately for me, he's a bit too crazy to notice the two guards bust in the room with their weapons drawn.
"Non-lethal!" I order. The guards sheathe their weapons before tackling Carrot in a practiced maneuver. At the same time, I release my telekinetic grip on my spear and grasp the knife, making sure nopony gets stabbed in the ponypile. After a brief scuffle, Carrot is finally disarmed and restrained. He continues struggling and foaming at the mouth for a while, never ceasing in his babbling. Eventually, though, he works himself to exhaustion and unconsciousness. I leave the two guards to make sure Carrot doesn't try to hurt anypony while I go find a doctor. Hopefully, they know how to handle somepony who just got what looks to be a massive dose of hallucinogen.
***********
I'll be up for a bit longer if anypony needs to interact with Khenal tonight. He'll be here in the hospital if you guys need him :)
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 21, 2011, 02:38:12 am
Date unknown*:
Things are still a bit hazy, my leg still hurts and I have to change the dressing every few hours - pus and blood seeping from the wound, despite Bubbles' best efforts (! It's a pity I can't carve a sense of sarcasm with this chisel) - I even had to remove the stitches a few days ago, the wound being so infected and inflamed that the stitches were tearing the healthy tissue around the wound's edges and preventing healing. It's gonna be a nasty scar if it ever heals. Haven't been able to do much work, I hope the other carpenter is able to keep up with things.
Heard the call for help from Charity, but, cannot leave bed, Resting Injury, and further to that, On Break. Somepony brought food and drink to replenish my small stockpile, I asked her to stop and chat, but she was in a panic over something, "Daemons invading the fortress", was all she wailed before trotting off.
All I can do is shake my head sadly. So, it appears to be starting here now, just like back home in Tailentranced. Beatings and death are called Justice; high and mighty nobles who sign papers and little more think they also decide the fate of everypony's life, en masse or individual. Just like back home. Jail cells filled to overflowing with criminals on spurious charges, while nobles get fat on lavish meals. Just like back home. It is all happening again, and soon, there will be a seige, and the gates will be raised and locked leaving defenceless ponies outside to die and rot. Just like back home. And daemons. They have now come.
........I never used to think of Tailentranced as home, it was always a place to be escaped, but lately, I miss the decadent, immoral, tantrum-laden pile of rock.
I wonder if I can arrange to be exiled from Glitterglen? Leave with six others and found a new outpost? Or would that be worse? Time for my favourite barrel of pain-killer before I lapse into unconsciousness. Again.
ThunderSplinter.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
{OOC: * - It's been so many pages since the last game report I couldn't find a date}
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 02:44:42 am
He approaches her and lays a forehoof on her withers, gently stroking along her back.
"There, how does that feel?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 02:47:41 am
"Oooh! What was that one called?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 02:48:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 02:51:12 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 02:55:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:00:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:09:21 am
He steps back from her, pulling a single silver bit from the pouch on his waist. He presses it against her foreleg.
"Do you feel that? that's called cold."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:09:58 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:16:00 am
He takes the same silver bit and breathes on it a few times, warming it up. He presses it to her leg again.
"now it is warm. If it were more warm, it would be called hot. Do you see?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:16:39 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:20:18 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:21:33 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:29:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:30:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:40:26 am
"If you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a question of my own. You and I, we have met before. Many times. Do you know who I am?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:46:54 am
Friesden thinks a second. "Who am I? Am I this Friesden people keep talking about?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:50:55 am
"Y-yes, your name is Friesden. My name... i-is Starkey."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:55:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 03:58:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:59:29 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:03:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:06:12 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:07:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:12:27 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 21, 2011, 04:16:15 am
*Suddenly Doctor Bubbles bursts out of his office, shouting "THATS ENOUGH!". A light swathes the room, and when it subsides Bubbles is gone, Thundersplinter is back on his/her feet and Carrot has disappeared.*
((He he he he he, time to get my revenge.))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:16:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:18:37 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:22:28 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 21, 2011, 04:31:25 am
.......Thundersplinter is back on his/her feet.....
((He he he he he, time to get my revenge.))
She has an infection resulting from the beating and, as yet, there has been no further information on whether it has been dealt with or not.
Also, she is in her tower, not the hospital, so Bubbles would not know anything about her surrent status.
/OOC}
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:34:47 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:35:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:40:24 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:42:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:44:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 04:47:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:04:08 am
Friesden presents her leg to Starkey.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:06:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:12:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:15:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:16:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:20:43 am
"Heh-heh. Do you promise to behave for me?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:21:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:23:20 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 05:28:39 am
((Hey, do you have any ideas for names I could use for Equestrian Naval Vessels? I'm modding HoI2.))
How about naming one of them "Kelpies"? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kelpie
To quote The Wiki
"The kelpie is a supernatural water horse from Celtic folklore that is believed to haunt the rivers and lochs of Scotland and Ireland; the name may be from Scottish Gaelic cailpeach or colpach "heifer, colt"."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:29:56 am
"...Don't worry about it. I'll be right back."
Starkey heads around the corner into Khenal's office, then returns with a set of keys. He opens the door to Friesden's cell and gestures for her to follow.
"Just stay close to me, and don't wander."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:30:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:31:06 am
Friesden obediently follows.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:35:06 am
"Doctor Bubbles, are you in? I have a patient for you."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 21, 2011, 05:42:56 am
*Suddenly Doctor Bubbles bursts out of his office, shouting "THATS ENOUGH!". A light swathes the room, and when it subsides Bubbles is gone((If you like, I can continue, but just in about one hour. Busy right now. -Om nom nom-))
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:45:03 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 21, 2011, 05:45:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:48:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 03:49:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:50:12 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 03:51:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 03:54:54 pm
I, [recruit's name], do solemnly swear by [recruit's deity of choice] to uphold the Laws and Ordinances of the madponies of Glitterglen, serve their private trust, and harm the subjects of His/Her [delete whichever is inappropriate] Majesty [name of reigning monarch] without fear, favour, or thought of personal safety; to become an evil-doer and harm the innocent, laying down my life if necessary in the cause of said duty, so help me [aforesaid deity]. Gods Save the King/Queen [delete which is inappropriate].
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 04:05:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 04:09:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 04:53:58 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 05:01:30 pm
I think he might be regretting coming here by now. Having Negs asleep probably doesn't help with that either.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:02:07 pm
Khenal, however, will do far more than have a cow, heh.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:05:45 pm
She settles on remembering the feelings, both the good and the bad.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:19:23 pm
'But it makes no sense! He knows how I investigate. He helped me take apart Friesdens' trap, for Ingest's sake! If he was trying to assassinate Charity, he'd know how to hide his involvement, and he certainly wouldn't sign his work! But I don't think anything was planted, either. He's the best mechanic in the fort, and this trap was definitely well made. The space for the chains was too small to fit a hoof, only a unicorn could have done that.'
I am still deep in thought as I pass Friesden's cell on the way to my office.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:21:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:24:24 pm
"How are you today, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:25:42 pm
"I...I am...good..."
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:31:19 pm
I look down at my hooves, a bit unsure how to proceed.
"Do you... Do you remember who I am?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:33:39 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 05:34:42 pm
Psycho wakes up with another syringe jammed in his back labeled HALLUCINOGEN. This time however, it appears to be fused to the flesh and is alot larger than before.
"Hehhehe...HEHHEHEHEE...THEY'RE COMING FOR ME...I WILL STOP THEM!!!!!!!!!!!"
Screams Psycho out of blind rage and madness, running around searching for a weapon to keep 'them' from 'taking him away.'
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:38:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:40:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 05:45:32 pm
'Maybe Carrot is awake. I could use a friendly smile, and he deserves some company while he recovers.'
*********
Khenal just had to make friends with the resident locos, didn't he? :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 05:48:52 pm
It's not a nice place. Here be dragons, indeed.
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 05:49:44 pm
"Not much going on here right now I think I like that quiet is good right? They always say quiet is good and they're right aren't they but what if It's too quiet what if no one is there? I don't like to be alone, why can't I hear anypony? when will you wake up Negs? I know you're still there, how long will you sleep? I need to remember I need to know I'm still here," I mutter seemingly without taking a single breath. Whenever other ponies see me coming they always move away quickly, not wanting to be near someone who is either mad or possessed by a mood.
"Need to talk, I know I'm still here if I can hear something even if no one responds I am here. Why is it so quiet I don't like the quiet the quiet went away long ago and I don't miss it."
I continue to wander around the halls aimlessly, soon enough I end up drifting towards the prison.
***************************************************************************
Yeah, Granite isn't too stable when Negs isn't around. Given that the two have pretty much become two parts of the same person it's understandable.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 05:53:35 pm
upon Khenal's arrival at the hospital, he finds Psycho with three enormous needles jutting out of his back, and holding a large carving knife. He hasn't seen Khenal yet.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 06:02:06 pm
I shake myself out of my boggle and try to telekinetically take the knife from Carrot before he hurts somepony
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:09:48 pm
Where other children had childhoods, she was forced into the back of her mind while the daemon controlled her body to obey her father's will. It was there that she learned her special talent...creation. She created a place to make believe her life. She cut herself off from her body and fled to her own realm, where no-one else could get to. She made up her mother, her friends, everyone.
Until one day her father decided to bind the 'new' daemon into her mother. With Schmoe forced out temporarily, she was placed back in the pilot's seat. She remembered all that had happened to her. All the...uses, shall we say, she was put to. She had a knife. She charged her father, trying to kill him. Before she could, he forced her mother into the way. She killed her without hesitation. It was not her mother. Her father hid in a room, barricading the door, and called for the guard.
The guard came in, knocked out Friesden, and rescued the father. In their investigation, they discovered all the sordid details. Friesden was put into a combined daemon and mental facility, and her father was exiled, had his horn amputated, and was castrated. Afterwards, the records were burnt, and any surviving details were kept top secret.
Friesden had imprisoned the daemon herselves at this point. The concept of empathy, of compassion, of mercy, of love; these were as foreign to her as heat is to ice. She grew worse. Eventually, having decided she would leave this place and kill all who stood in her way, she released the daemon, who unbound a number of other daemonhosts. The combined destruction and chaos led to the deaths of everypony there, save for one prodigy alicorn.
The remaining years she spent on the street, killing everypony who did not bow to her will. She became fascinated with how ponies worked, and constructed another self to simply learn and apply that. Another she kept to 'mother' her, in a cruel parody of love mixed with lust. She cut herself off from her innocence. It was then that she learned of Glitterglen. A fresh place, where the heat would be less. She travelled there. The rest is, as they say, history.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 06:10:03 pm
"YOU'LL NEVER TAKE ME AWAY TO THE FUNNY FARM WHERE EVERYTHING IS HAPPY AND I'LL BE HAPPY TO SEE THE PONIES IN THEIR..." etc...
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 06:24:05 pm
I shift my telekinesis to the nearest metal object so I can have something to parry Carrot's slashes.
"A bedpan? Really? Woah!" I barely manage to duck a slash aimed at my eyes.
'At least it was empty, and makes a decent shield.' I start backing out of the hospital under Carrot's barrage.
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 06:25:57 pm
I suddenly notice where I am, "The prison! I can finally see if this Friesden is sane enough to not try and kill me when I see her! And if she does try to kill me I can sit on her and talk to her that way!"
Melancholy fully dispersed I head over to Friesden's door, humming to myself.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 06:27:31 pm
The night after Psycho's attack. Charity returns home, explains the events to Cryptson, and everypony retires to sleep. Well every pony except for one.
'Yes' thinks the tiny blue unicorn, with the Cobalt eyes, 'finally everypony is asleep.'
The tiny foal pulls out the old book he had stashed away, his mother had not noticed the missing book yet, but he knew eventually she would, and she would assume he had taken it. He needed a place to hide it, but it couldn't be in their room. He stuck the book in a bag and quitely left the room.
'Where can I put it that no pony will ever find it?' he wondered to himself. And that's when he had an idea.
Cobalt, walked to the surface, he looked up, it was a full moon. He'd never seen such a sight before, having never been allowed out on the surface at night. After enjoying the scene for a while he went to the first floor of the wooden tower. 'I must do this quietly' he thinks, 'Miss Thundersplinter's is asleep up stairs and I don't need her to find me.'
With his magic he carefully pulls a wooden plank from the wall, and finds an empty space.
'Okay book, I'll be back when this assassin business is over and then I'll have the time to read you.' He hides the book in the opening, replaces the wooden plank, and returns home.
Charity's Journal (The day after Psycho attacks her, but written before Carrots new episode.)
I can't believe that Carrot would attack me like that. However, Khenal's report says he was under the effects of some sort of hallucinogenic, so I'll have to forgive him. This assassin is getting more dangerous however, first he lays traps that could've hurt anypony, then he makes my own guards go berserk. Khenal needs to catch this pony soon. I hope he found some clues when he disabled the trap in my office.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:36:09 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 06:41:17 pm
"Hello, is anypony home? Talking to myself has become boring and I seek companionship!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:42:06 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 06:43:03 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 06:46:09 pm
"He's still there but it isn't the same without at least having the potential for a reply. Don't you think so?
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:46:50 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 06:48:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:49:23 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 06:51:46 pm
I smile slightly.
"Monsters are just things other ponies don't like. Sometimes it's deserved and sometimes it's just somepony being stupid."
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 06:53:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 06:55:22 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:02:56 pm
I look over at Friesden.
"You feel regret don't you?"
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 07:04:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 07:07:53 pm
I start limping out of the hospital, levitating Carrot with the knife still in my leg.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:11:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 07:12:35 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:13:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:15:09 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 07:16:14 pm
"I'm not taking you to the farms. Even if I were, I never thought they were very funny. I'm taking you to a cell so you can calm down."
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:16:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:18:27 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:22:23 pm
I smile.
"Not many can tell it was me unless I let them know myself. Or maybe you're talking about something else. Unfortunately Negs is asleep at the moment, I can't eat anyone right now or would offer my services to you again. When he comes back is there anything you don't like? Any feelings that make you angry or sad? They can go away, not forever mind you but for a moment... A single blissful moment."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:24:42 pm
"I was wrong. It wasn't the good pony that I remembered, it was you. You did it, didn't you? Took away all that I had!"
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 21, 2011, 07:26:46 pm
It's a television show.((I sent him this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a27oq09lhPw hopefully our good friend blunty3000 can explain to this poor 14 year old who's living under a rock in Antarctica without a television what My Little Pony is.))
Aaaaaa...no actually I haven' t been living under a rock. There's a difference between a rock and a boulder thank you very much.
Git your facts straight, skipper.
>:(
EDIT: Actually now I'm suddenly addicted to "my little pony." Is that normal? O.O
I loooove fluttershy...she's soooo cuuuute!
I'm officially insane now.
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:28:44 pm
"I took your rage. The rage of the moment. Nothing I take is gone forever. Look at you now! You're flushed with that very same rage!"
My voice steadies as I continue.
"If that rage is all you had then my debt is now repaid. Your rage is back and in full force. If you ever had anything more than rage? That wasn't me. So tell me, what else am I supposed to have taken from you?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:31:01 pm
Friesden spits.
"Go away."
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:32:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 07:32:43 pm
It's a television show.((I sent him this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a27oq09lhPw hopefully our good friend blunty3000 can explain to this poor 14 year old who's living under a rock in Antarctica without a television what My Little Pony is.))
Aaaaaa...no actually I haven' t been living under a rock. There's a difference between a rock and a boulder thank you very much.
Git your facts straight, skipper.
>:(
EDIT: Actually now I'm suddenly addicted to "my little pony." Is that normal? O.O
I loooove fluttershy...she's soooo cuuuute!
I'm officially insane now.
Couldn't resist (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xggKo42eQVc)
And yes, pony addiction is common and awesome
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:33:02 pm
"Go AWAY!"
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 07:33:40 pm
(http://api.ning.com/files/Mx0Dt*7TpUpV3NBAsgeror62R4dw72oI9HeXXcPReB-sOnqD8Lyfs5D2UlrdvZY1LPet-Ucea6s4ItqAHWXj0w__/theherd.gif)It's a television show.((I sent him this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a27oq09lhPw hopefully our good friend blunty3000 can explain to this poor 14 year old who's living under a rock in Antarctica without a television what My Little Pony is.))
Aaaaaa...no actually I haven' t been living under a rock. There's a difference between a rock and a boulder thank you very much.
Git your facts straight, skipper.
>:(
EDIT: Actually now I'm suddenly addicted to "my little pony." Is that normal? O.O
I loooove fluttershy...she's soooo cuuuute!
I'm officially insane now.
and yes, yes it is.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 07:34:19 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:43:38 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Also, that was from page ninty something when I joined this insanity... These pages just seem to flash by don't they?
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 07:49:07 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:50:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 07:53:09 pm
Should prolly get back on the rails soon, though. Khenal aught to be showing up in the jail any time now...
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 07:58:12 pm
"It's been so long since someone was this... defiant towards me. Usually they just shy away from me because I'm that madman no one want to associate with or I'm that freak that drains people dry. Or they think I'm the sole source of the outpost's ills. This is a really nice change of pace!"
************************************
I'm starting to think Granite has very low standards for liking people. Talk to him and don't back off in fear and he seems to be pretty happy.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:00:09 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:04:27 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:05:31 pm
I lay down, leaning against the wall to the right of the door.
"But you're just a paw, discarded and broken. I almost feel sorry for you, the way you are now. But fixing you isn't my problem, it's his. Perhaps now that you've met the Pony of Wrath and Despair you won't be so mad at him. Maybe when you're fixed we can have another conversation. A happier one..."
Granite's vocie falters for a second.
"Anyway! Not good to dwell on things that may never happen. But all this talk about you is getting somewhat boring! Therefore I think we should talk about me. I was born in a small village on the Pony Diomedean border..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:06:23 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:08:13 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:08:36 pm
"I suppose I can leave you be for now my girl. Just remember, let's meet up again when you're fixed."
Sighing I get up and start to trot away from the cells, already starting to mutter to myself.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:10:07 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:11:16 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:12:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:17:11 pm
"Are you alright, or do I need to get you a cell also? And what did you do to upset Friesden?"
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:20:23 pm
"Negs is asleep now though... It's quiet without him..." my voice trails off for a second before I smile again.
"As for Friesden we had a discussion about monsters, I'm apparently worse than the notgood pony, ate her, and took him away. Whoever him is... You wouldn't happen to know this mysterious him would you?
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:21:57 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:23:40 pm
"And could you tell me why he's going nuts... Again?" I ask eying Carrot warily.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:27:11 pm
I sigh and look Granite in the eyes.
"I'm pretty sure it's me."
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:29:35 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:30:00 pm
"Oh, and that was Schmoe." Psycho says calmly to Granite before reverting back to foaming-at-mouth insanity.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:32:41 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:34:29 pm
((http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DuIQJ-l16b4))
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:36:16 pm
"Do. Not. Provoke. Her. If she is to have any hope of anything, she needs to be shown compassion and caring and everything else good that she has never known before."
Keeping my eyes on Granite, I raise my voice to address Carrot's question. "No thank you, Carrot. I'd like to delay my meeting with the reaper as long as possible, thank you."
Unfortunately for me, I fail to notice Carrot escape the cell. At least until he stabs me.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:37:15 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:38:24 pm
Psycho slashes Khenal in the back from behind with the earing.
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:40:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:42:46 pm
***************
It's an artifact earring, it must menace with spikes of something. Or spikes of several somethings :P
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:43:05 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:44:27 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:45:16 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:46:46 pm
I rip the pick from the floor and kick several of the broken off pieces of floor at Psycho, following closely with a swing at his midsection.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:48:21 pm
"Sorry about this, Carrot!"
I continue dodging slashes from Carrot as I build power in my horn, then release it in a grab at one of the syringes in his back, trying to rip it free.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:50:20 pm
Not only does the syringe come lose,
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:52:00 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:52:57 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:53:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:53:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 08:54:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:55:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 08:57:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 08:58:55 pm
"Carrot?"
************
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
NNNnnnoooooooo!! Please spoiler? For my eyes? :'(
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 08:59:11 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 09:01:38 pm
Khenal sees a slowly growing pool of blood forming around Psycho AND notes that his breathing is becoming more and more stained and his heart beat is slowing.
Post by: Rentorian on November 21, 2011, 09:04:57 pm
*************************************
Got work in six hours. G'night everypony. If you need Granite he'll be wandering around the halls toaling to himself until Negs wakes back up.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:09:12 pm
'Blood! Lots of blood! Um...oh!' My horn glows as I turn Carrot so his wound is pointed up, trying to keep his blood in him with the simple help of gravity. In a flash of desperation, I call to Friesden.
"Friesden! Do you remember how to heal ponies?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:10:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:15:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:16:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:19:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:20:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:30:08 pm
'I can't! She's finally making progress, finally interacting like a normal pony! But...Carrot doesn't have much time, I don't think I could get him to the hospital quick enough. I can't just lie to her either, that'd be even worse than making her forget everything!'
"...I'll try. Locking away memories isn't easy, and there is never a guarantee they will stay sealed. But I will try, just please save Carrot!"
I levitate my keys to Friesden's cell and unlock it.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:35:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:36:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 09:38:19 pm
((http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LbkxP_UCBQ))
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:40:55 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 09:49:51 pm
"Um, on it!" I dash off to get the improvised medical tools.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 09:51:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 09:53:10 pm
The wound is very deep and you can
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 09:59:32 pm
Charity's Journal 28th Limestone 98
Seems that we had a jail break today. No it's not who you might expect. It was Ms. Pillomino. She used her knowledge of masonry to find a weak point in the cell and make a break for it. Although she didn't try to flee the town. Just ran to the bar for a drink, before Khenal showed up and took her back. She did not resist. Seemed she really really wanted a drink.
(The Nurse Kil had given every pony water except for Pillomino, and then ran off to get a drink herself and then went on break, and then went to a party. With the Doctor busy treating injuries from the last ambush, and Pillomino very dehydrated, and nopony else bringing water, death was a possibility, so I deconstructed her chain, and when that was done, she ran for the drink stockpile, and got one before Khenal dragged her back to one of the new cells.)
5th Sandstone 98
A horrible creature has been spotted in the deep. The militia and guards are working together to try and lure it into an ambush.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Ozor%20Ledalath.png)
10th Sandstone 98
The beast has so far proven elusive. In other news, I think the confinement is getting to Pillomino. She tried to throw a party in her cell. It didn't go well.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Party.dib)
Charity's Journal 18th Sandstone 98
The beast of the the below, we thought we had it trapped on the southern portion of the caverns, until it swam around our troops and ambushed a fisherpegasus named Udar Gleamedgrass, it grabbed him and tried to drag him into the water, but he scrambled away, though it relieved him of his shoe, which then used to beat him more, until the militia arrived and he was able to escape. Thought the creature likewise escaped into the lake. The militia is stationed by the water, hoping it will resurface.
Charity's Journal 20th Sandstone 98
The creature was spotted heading north away form the fortress, and so, we are relaxing security to allow the troops a break, as they have been on high alert for the past ten days non-stop.
Charity's Journal 28th Sandstone 98
Cryptson has been parading around in a fine suit of Bismuth Bronze and Steel Armour, and carrying a exceptional Steel Pick. He hasn't left me or the kids alone since the incident. It's sweet, and I'm happy to keep him close, but he can be kind of smothering, although, I'd rather him stay to close, than too far until this assassin is caught.
("Warning - while you were typing 38 new replies have been posted. You may wish to review your post." Wow, this thread moves hella fast.)
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
It's an artifact earring, it must menace with spikes of something. Or spikes of several somethings :P
Surprisingly, no, I'll re post the description again below incase anypony wants to see it without backtracking some 50 pages, but it is called "The Magicians of Violence." It's almost like the pony who made it knew it was going to be weaponized.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/The%20Magicians%20of%20Violence.png)
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 10:02:47 pm
"Will these work?"
***********
Aw, come on The Master. It'll be dipped in alcohol to sterilize it, it'll be fine :P Ya, Khenal decided against the knife Carrot got him with.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:04:07 pm
((I haven't proclaimed him DEAD. just dead as a rock. :P))((Made a GIANT ERROR.))
Khenal sees a slowly growing pool of blood forming around Psycho AND notes that his breathing is becoming more and more stained and his heart beat is slowing.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 10:06:12 pm
Friesden deftly severs one of the pieces of cloth into strips with a dagger, and cuts parts of fabric from others.
"We'll also need some stuff for stitching. Quickly!"
Friesden secures the patches of fabric around the bleeding areas with the strips of cloth.
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 10:11:19 pm
I again run off as fast as I can to gather the supplies.
***************
((I haven't proclaimed him DEAD. just dead as a rock. :P))((Made a GIANT ERROR.))
Khenal sees a slowly growing pool of blood forming around Psycho AND notes that his breathing is becoming more and more stained and his heart beat is slowing.
Hehe.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 10:12:44 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:14:55 pm
Khenal and Friesden hear a loud 'BWOOOOONG!' sound and then the room melts away to reveal a strange wavery realm(Psycho's mind!) full of odd colors and the sound of crying in the distance.
((Think of it this way, now Friesden has another reason to get rid of her memories!))
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:18:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 10:23:00 pm
'No! Cockroach can't have won!'
******************
Man, I really hope Khenal is jumping to the wrong conclusion. That'd totally bone the little canon we have going on.
Also: this (http://parallaxmlp.deviantart.com/art/Derpy-Loves-her-Lava-Lamp-270265125) is mesmerizing.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:24:07 pm
Khenal hears faint sobs in the distance that sort of sound like Psycho.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 10:25:42 pm
"I could ask the same question."
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:31:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 10:36:04 pm
Calmed and focused, I begin to explore this realm.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 10:41:52 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 10:44:41 pm
"This, is where I have been the whole time, Khenal. I never left him in the first place. It's time to face me once and for all! Win, and I give Psycho back. LOSE, AND YOU'LL JOIN HIM IN THIS WONDERFUL PLANE OF EXISTENCE! Now, be a good little horsey and go to where that crying figure is."
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 10:52:43 pm
"Is that really you, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 10:55:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 11:02:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 11:05:13 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 11:10:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 11:16:50 pm
I plant my hooves and draw my weapon; not my spear, but the dagger that Carrot gave me.
"Loyalty." I whisper, before the figure is upon us.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 11:20:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 11:24:20 pm
"Well, isn't this just rich? Oh, what's this? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXLDv-fUINM&feature=related
Hear that? AHAHAHHAHAHAHAH!!"
The world melts away again, replaced this time with a scene that sends chills down Khenal's mental spine. It's his old office from the town he was banished by the queen from.
"Do you recognize it? You should, it's from your head after all..." The daemon snorts.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 21, 2011, 11:29:34 pm
Charity's Journal 12 Timber, 98
A scream was heard in the caverns, it seems Ozar Ledalath has returned, and attacked another one of our fisherponies, Psycho Carrot (I'm assuming he lives through the current situation.) was the first on the scene, and fired a bolt at the beast, which missed, and the creature dived back into the water. It then resurfaced nearby and he fired again, this time Psycho hit the monster in one of his left legs. The creature than dived again, and is hiding under the ground, in an old flooded tunnel. We're going to try and trap it in there.
Charity's Journal 13th Timber, 98
Before our plan to trap the beast was ready, it resurfaced, and attacked another marks pony, from Psycho's squad. Cryptson, who happened to be in the area, saw the commotion, and ran to help. With a few strikes of his pick the creature was finished. The fight was won.
Additional happy news today. Pillomino and the other last of the prisoners from the export ban incident have been officially released, they're all free. I'm going to invite Pillomino and Thundersplinter, to have a drink with me, like we used to, but well...I'll understand if they don't want to be around me.
Speaking of Thunder, I saw her the other day and the infection in her leg seems to have completely healed. Additionally, she was getting around without a crutch. I'm glad she's better.
Charity's Journal 17th Timber 98
A diplomat from the cave ponies has come to Glitterglen to speak with us, and has brought a caravan of merchants with him.
Charity's Journal 22nd Timber 98
It seems the cave ponies have finally forgiven us for that little insident a couple years back with the cloth and leather, because this year they brought so many gems, and so much metal that the whole Trade Depot was shining. Naturally, we bought as much metal as we could, along with a few other necessities, gypsum powder, sand for our glassworks, uncut gemstones, cloth and leather, etc.
(Venture has finally reached adulthood.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Venture%27s%20all%20grown%20up.png)
Since thetyler101 hasn't posted in forever, and hasn't responded to my email. I will assume he's dead until proven wrong. Thus we have a named pony who needs a big decision made [what career he will pursue] and no one to really make that decision. If no one has any fun ideas for the character, [please don't Master him up. Tyler may return from the dead at some point] then I'll just put him wherever, I really could use a another pony in the militia or the guard, but that doesn't really seem to be in the line of what the character would have done. So, if anyone wants a bumbling Alicorn apprentice speak up, if not I will have to decide for him myself.)
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 11:32:56 pm
I slash at the daemon with Carrot's Loyalty.
**************
Khenal would love to take Venture under his wing, but I don't think she'd really like it in the guard.
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 11:39:28 pm
"YOU'LL PAY FOR THAT!!" The daemon grabs Friesden and throws her across the room, hitting a desk.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 11:44:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 11:47:19 pm
I interpose myself between him and Friesden, then advance on Cockroach. I keep Carrot's Loyalty at the ready, looking for any chance to drive it into the daemon.
Post by: Dsarker on November 21, 2011, 11:48:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 11:50:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 21, 2011, 11:57:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 21, 2011, 11:59:06 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:08:43 am
((Be creative in other words!))
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:16:17 am
'Still, he's not actively trying to kill us right this moment.' I walk over to Friesden to see if she's alright.
"How are you doing, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 12:17:02 am
It's quite clear that she has broken several bones.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:21:33 am
"Are you sure? Can you walk? We need to get out of here before Cockroach springs any more tricks on us."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:24:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 12:27:52 am
She walks, no, runs over to Khenal. She seems to be enjoying the pain immensely.
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:30:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:33:29 am
"Then check the door! I'm going to look for something by Cockroach's body. I think he had a secret way out of here."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:34:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 12:35:10 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:38:50 am
I grab Cockroach's head and look into the neck hole, before nodding and pointing it towards Friesden.
"Hop in."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:40:34 am
As Friesden and Khenal hop inside the head, Khenal takes the opportunity to smile, because he knows that even a cockroach can't survive without it's head...for long.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 12:40:48 am
Friesden leaps in.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:44:25 am
((Good god, that's PERFECT! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVfBJG5_7DY&feature=colike))
As Friesden and Khenal hop inside the head, Khenal takes the opportunity to smile, because he knows that even a cockroach can't survive without it's head...for long.
Glad you approve :D
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 12:50:31 am
The room explodes into flames behind them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O_QXst67nI&feature=related
Everything melts away, and Khenal and Friesden wake up on the ground in front of Psycho, still in a pool of his own blood.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 12:52:27 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 12:54:35 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 01:11:34 am
Psycho suddenly starts breathing again, and his heart begins to beat.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 01:43:16 am
"Is he going to be alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 01:45:07 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 01:46:55 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 01:50:06 am
"Then please walk with me, and let me know precisely what you want to forget."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 01:51:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 01:56:51 am
"Everything beyond the last day, I want to forget. Everything connected with those memories I want to forget."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 02:00:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 02:02:11 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 02:04:47 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 02:10:54 am
I deflate a bit. "And if I sealed that much, it would only last a bare hooffull of minutes before you would remember everything anyway."
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 02:12:57 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 02:14:08 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 02:19:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 02:21:19 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 02:22:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 02:23:27 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 02:28:08 am
"I can't give you her memories, only a memory eater cou...!"
I blink a few times and almost drop Carrot as I get a very stupid idea.
'Keeper? I have a very dangerous question to ask you.'
*********************
A short break sound good, then. :)
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 02:38:14 am
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 02:51:17 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 22, 2011, 03:07:21 am
Early Timber, 98.
297. I'm going to remember that number forever. 297. The number of bars of soap it took to clean out the infection in my leg. And, on top of that, I have also gathered up all the bars of honey badger pegasi soap and hidden them in my workshop. It's the softest and soapiest I used. But if anyone asks, I'll recommend the cat soap, it seems we have plenty of it and I'd probably rate it mediocre at best. Also discarded that infernal crutch, probably did more damage than anything else. And, thank Nuket, no more wound dressings to change every few hours - that pus was really starting to stink up the place and the haulers were complaining when I asked them to take the bundles to the refuse pile. It is with great satisfaction that I took the last bundle of soiled cloth to the refuse pit and threw it in with all the contempt I could muster.
Plans: review the top-most levels of the tower - plan security measures. The possibility from fliers to invade by pathing through the tower is very real, so a few cage traps here and there will take care of that. Nicolta has been a casualty of some foul-daemon scheme by the sounds of the gossip that reaches me, and queries over who the senior mechanician is have returned nothing.
Blocks, barrels, and cages should help me get back into the swing of things - I hear we have more migrants that need beds, but I wonder if we are getting enough migrants to replace our losses?
Enough for now,
ThunderSplinter.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 03:55:02 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:19:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:22:43 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 04:26:08 am
*A flash of light explodes from the ceiling, and Bubbles falls down in a heap. Right on Friesden.*
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:31:24 am
Suddenly, Dr Bubbles falls through the ceiling, right on top of Friesden.
"...Nice of you to drop in, Doctor."
**************
I can't resist a terrible pun, I regret nothing!
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 04:33:45 am
*Bubbles steps up and notices Friesden*
"Uh....Hello Friesden..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:35:56 am
"It feels...very risky....why don't you simply...I don't know..."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:40:17 am
"I was actually headed to see you, if you weren't busy. Carrot has...been seriously wounded. Friesden tells me he's stable, but he needs a real hospital instead of the improvised treatment Friesden had to give him."
I offer Bubbles a helping hoof off of Friesden, then offer her the same off the floor.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 04:45:23 am
((I would love to have Venture as an apprentice. Two people in the hospital isn't going to cut it XD))
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:46:48 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:51:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:58:49 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:13:59 am
'Daemons I can control? Not even remotely. Schmoe is under control, I think, but not mine. And I doubt he'd play along with this. And I especially doubt Starkey would play along. Summoning and trying to bind one is completely out of the question as well.'
When we arrive a the hospital, I make sure to get Carrot a bed and some proper medical assistance.
"Friesden, I don't think I can fully do what you ask. At least, not right now. Will you accept a temporary fix until I can research some more?"
*************
I can't get this (http://speccysy.deviantart.com/art/Tumblr-Caramell-270173207) out of my head!
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 05:20:18 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:32:11 am
I look her in the eyes, pained that she feels this is her only option.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 05:39:00 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:47:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 05:49:34 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:59:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:06:55 am
There's a small remnant of a smile on Friesden's face.
"They cut it off, and then they took my father's horn off as well. They exiled my father, and I never heard from or of my father again. That was how I met you."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:12:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:13:31 am
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 02:31:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 03:05:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 03:12:05 pm
"Alright, what did I miss this time?"
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 03:35:27 pm
It takes relatively little real time for the memories to be sealed. Once finished, the construct takes a position in an out of the way part of Friesden's mental landscape, ready to seal any memories that may try to escape the subconscious. I then sever the link, exhausted. I barely have the energy to ask Friesden:
"How do you feel now?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 03:39:07 pm
"Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!"
She runs to Khenal and hugs him tight.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 03:40:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 03:42:55 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 03:49:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 03:52:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:00:12 pm
*************
Ya, sorry about ignoring you :-\
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:02:29 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 04:07:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:09:46 pm
"You're welcome, Friesden. I...I need a nap."
I shakily stand and start making my way towards the cell that Carrot cut his way out of.
'It's not the best bed, but it's a bed.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:10:44 pm
"Khenal... I don't know this feeling. What is it?"
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:15:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:18:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 04:22:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:24:47 pm
"I love you, too."
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:25:57 pm
Friesden watches Khenal fall asleep. The new feeling is making her feel giddy.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 04:33:39 pm
Heh, I wonder how the rest of the fort will react to them.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:34:38 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 22, 2011, 04:38:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 04:42:18 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 04:48:22 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 04:49:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 04:50:18 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 22, 2011, 05:08:21 pm
"How is it that ponies have elevated gossip to such an art form?" I ask myself. Even after my sleepless night Negs had not woken up. And there was no point in sleeping if he wasn't there to talk to. Besides, he had taken in a lot of energy and I figured I was entitled to some of it.
"Don't think the Charity ones are true, she's still in the hospital... I think. That place has a horrible record for keeping thier patients in the hospital. Psycho is probably up and about by now. His healing abilities are just not normal, and that really means something coming from me too..."
My voice trails off as I watch the hustle and bustle of ponies going about their jobs before me.
"So many ponies, so many ways for them to end up running. There are no rumors of me? Probably good. Don't want them to run. Though maybe I should run, this place has something wrong with it. Maybe the whole thing is broken? Who would be able to tell?" I mutter before continuing my sentence from before.
"Probably no Diomedians, would be more panic and armed patrols if that happened. Same if somepony had gone berserk too. The last one... Khenal and Friesden hooking up though... Friesden was broken and seemed to have hated Khenal... But now she hated me... Is that good? If she blames her brokenness on me can he fix her? Probably not a good idea to see her for a while. Pain is never fun, and it's not like Negs can take my anything... I should ask Khenal... And I still need an answer about 'him'... and those colors hidden under his..."
My voice sinks into the usual low mutterings of my thoughts as I walk through the throng of ponies towards the mine shafts,
"Maybe some time spent hitting rocks will help bring things to sense."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:25:03 pm
Khenal's Sequel, Chapter 5
Friesden is better, my Sequel! Over the past few days, she's actually been responding to ponies and doesn't try to hurt anypony anymore. Yesterday, though, she remembered her past and couldn't face it. She asked me to take those memories, and I would have refused if Cockroach hadn't reared his ugly head again. I...I almost killed Carrot when I tried to stop him, and only Friesden could help him. In return, she wanted me to seal her memories. I tried to talk her out of forgetting, but she couldn't handle all the pain they were bringing her.
I created another mental construct, like the one I used on myself so long ago. It's not a perfect answer, and I don't know how long those memories will stay fully sealed, but she's so happy right now. And I'm so happy also. I love her, my Sequel, and I think she returns the feeling. She's asleep right now, and I'm trying to decide if I should wake her or let her sleep while I go visit Carrot in the hospital. I'll also need to talk to Charity and Starkey and let them know about Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 05:27:15 pm
Post by: Rentorian on November 22, 2011, 05:31:38 pm
Yes already! Her lights are much more like a normal pony, and she has a lot more lights that I can't see.
"Enough positive emotions that you can tell they are there? That's definitely a good sign."
Negs had woken up almost a full day after he had gone to sleep, much of the time since then had been spent explaining what had happened while he slept as well as trying to figure out what was going on.
"We should probably ambush Khenal somewhere, get the full story from him... You still remember what the hidden colors were like right?"
Yes I remember, Negs responded, annoyed at my constant questioning of his memory.
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 05:34:30 pm
As Khenal nears the hospital, he hears the familar groans of Psycho Carrot.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 05:56:11 pm
'Groans are better than crazed screams, but only just. I should hurry.'
***********
Being a bit slow today, trying to get another section transcribed for FiMFiction
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:03:20 pm
"Khenal! What in Celestia's name happened?! Was I in a coma for two days?!" Asks Psycho, jumping to conclusions as always.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 06:07:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:12:27 pm
"Well, you see..." I start recalling the last few days, telling Bubbles and Carrot about Friesden's unsettling behavior with her leg, Carrot's induced insanity with those syringes, Cockroach's return, and yes, I sealed Friesden's memories. I leave out the fact that Friesden and I love eachother, feeling it's private. For now, at least.
*************
And for those interested in the transcript, the next section is up over here (http://www.fimfiction.net/story/2892/Glitterglen)!
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 06:16:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:21:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:21:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:24:36 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 06:26:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:30:48 pm
((Psycho wouldn't try to kill anyone willingly 'I' might add.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:31:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:32:06 pm
*************
Ahahah! Burn from Ansontan! :D
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:34:46 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 22, 2011, 06:36:36 pm
"Well, I have some paperwork to get on with. See ya'll later!"
((gtg.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:37:50 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:38:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:41:08 pm
"I'm...sorry about your back, Carrot. I didn't think that syringe was so deeply embedded. How are you doing?"
************
Take care Ansontan!
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 06:41:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:44:25 pm
"Bad. Even with the pain-killer the pain from having SKIN AND BONE TORN OUT hasn't dulled in the slightest. I STILL feel sick from the overdose of...what did you call it again...hold that thought." And with that, goes all of Psycho's breakfast.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:53:06 pm
"They were labeled 'Hallucinogen', which I still think is weird. You should try to relax and let the doctors do their work."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 06:54:26 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 06:57:44 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:02:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 07:03:51 pm
((Though to be fair, Starkey was just grossly misinterpreting Friesden's experimental observations, but still.))
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:05:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:09:18 pm
***********
Ya, Starkey was the first to think there might be something between Friesden and Khenal. I just finished transcribing that part, actually :P
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:11:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:16:00 pm
"You have to stay here, Carrot! Stop trying to leave, or Ingest help me, I will put you to sleep!"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 07:17:12 pm
"And precisely where do you think you're going?"
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:20:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 07:22:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:24:23 pm
***************
Pretty sure StrongBeard said Kil was assigned as a nurse recently.
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:30:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 07:33:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:34:35 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:37:50 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 07:39:14 pm
Starkey trots out the door, heading towards the room Carrot and his wife share.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 07:40:25 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:41:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 07:43:55 pm
Starkey turns tail and gallops back towards the hospital.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:45:54 pm
"Shh, it'll be alright. I know you don't like the hospital, but you need to get better."
Then his tears turn to screams.
'Uh-oh'
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 07:47:08 pm
"What? What happened?"
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:48:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:51:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 07:52:44 pm
"Make...make it stop! Please!"
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 07:54:48 pm
"NO NO NO!!! DON'T HURT ME!!!!!!!!!!!" Screams Psycho even louder than before.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 07:58:26 pm
"Stand up. Come on, you don't have to stay here for this."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 07:59:24 pm
"I warned you about calming down."
I release the spell, letting it flow into Carrot and hoping his fear wont overcome his injuries and magical exhaustion.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:00:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:01:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:04:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:06:09 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:07:03 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:09:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:10:48 pm
She's still shaken up.
"Please...can you hold me?"
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:12:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:13:42 pm
He wraps his forelegs around her, gently patting her on the back.
"it's alright, it's over. You're alright."
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:16:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:16:20 pm
"Thank you."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:17:54 pm
"CARROT?! Oh...Carrot...Is he alright?" Kil asks, terrified after not seeing Psycho in about three days.
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:20:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:23:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:25:53 pm
"I just woke up... Khenal and I were both tired after last night. I think I...love? I think that was the word. I think I love him."
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:26:39 pm
"Oh my...Psycho is not going to be happy if he sees me talking to you..." and with that, Kil drags Psycho in, slams the door, and locks exactly eight different locks all attached to the door.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:28:56 pm
Problem, Khenal?
Khenal: FFFFFFFUUUUUUUU))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:29:13 pm
A dash of:
'Hah, I told you so, lad!'
A little bit of:
'Dammit, I wanted a piece of that.'
And a heaping helping of:
'Oh sisters, Schmoe is going to clopping kill me.'
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:30:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:33:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:34:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:34:56 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:35:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:38:12 pm
I sigh and head back to the hospital to find Starkey and Friesden
****************
The fortress is fairly vertical, if I remember right, so nothing is really that far from anything else.
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:42:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:45:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 08:46:30 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:47:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:49:05 pm
I give her a warm smile and an affectionate nuzzle before draping one of my wings over her in a soft embrace.
*************
As far as Khenal worrying about rumors? He isn't :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:52:18 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 08:54:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 08:55:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 08:59:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 09:07:14 pm
I gaze into her eyes, lost for a time, before comming back to reality and turning my head to look at Starkey.
"Thank you for getting her out of there, Starkey. I owe you."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 09:10:03 pm
He grins.
"I always thought you two would look cute together."
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 09:12:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:12:11 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 09:13:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 09:14:18 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:16:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 09:16:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:17:55 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 09:21:28 pm
GAH! KHENAL! YOUR SPELL CHECKER BLEW UP!
Huh? What'd I do?
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:23:33 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 09:26:19 pm
No, not that, get your mind out of the gutter :P
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:30:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 09:31:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:34:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 09:39:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:41:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 09:44:10 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 09:46:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 10:35:21 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 10:47:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 22, 2011, 10:53:32 pm
"They're cute, sir."
"Aye, Lieutenant, that they are."
"Y'look happy, sir."
"Aye, Lieutenant, that I am."
"Too happy, sir."
"I wouldn't put it that way..."
"Jealous, sir?"
"No..."
"Permission t'speak freely, sir?"
"Go ahead, Lieutenant."
"Yer lyin', sir."
"...Yes, Lieutenant."
*sigh*, "C'mon sir, I'll let ye give me a belly rub."
"...That would be highly inappropriate, Lieutenant."
"Uh-huh. Yer room r'mine, sir?"
He thinks for a moment.
*sigh*, "Mine."
They trot off together.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 10:57:42 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 11:09:56 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 22, 2011, 11:16:38 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 11:25:03 pm
Screaming can be heard from Psycho Carrot's room. The door to the room flies out into the hallway and shatters to dust. Psycho, now covered head to toe in blood, trots happily out of the room, with an psychopathic-mass-murderer-kind-of-smile on his face.
((I don't even have to bring Cockroach back to make Psycho insane! After all, I took the madman's oath! AND NO, YOU CAN NEVER HAVE A DAY WITHOUT INSANITY!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 11:26:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 11:26:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 11:30:12 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1vDqgsbyhQ
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 11:32:56 pm
'Well, I know how to fix that.'
I smile before positioning my face in front of hers, slowly leaning forward to...
...Be interrupted by a not-so-subtle cough from behind. One of the hospital guards is standing behind us, looking like he's been trying to get my attention for a while now. I give him a glare as he asks "Uh, sir? What are you doing?"
"I'm enjoying the company of the most beautiful pony I've ever known. Or I was, until you..."
The guardspony cuts me off. "You're, uh, kinda making a scene, sir..."
Before I can tell the guardspony precisely how little I care about making a scene, the sound of Carrot's door exploding echoes down the halls.
**************
I don't care if you ninja me, The Master, I'm saying that anyway :P
Edited for spelling, stupid spelling.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 11:36:48 pm
"What was that noise?"
((Dammit, keyboard keeps thinking I want to type Lhenal, not Khenal.))
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 11:38:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 11:49:10 pm
"Get Commander Starkey! I don't think Carrot is going to be very reasonable this time!"
I then point a hoof at the other hospital guard.
"Gather the Guard! I'm sure you'll be able to find me!"
My expression softens as I look at Friesden.
"I'm sorry, my love, but it looks like duty calls me. Go to Thunder Splinter's tower, alert the Skyguard there and don't leave."
I give her one more nuzzle before standing.
"I need to go...'talk' with Carrot."
The closer guard tosses me his spear as I dash towards the stairwell and Psycho.
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 11:50:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 22, 2011, 11:52:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 22, 2011, 11:54:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 22, 2011, 11:58:32 pm
Kil's head hits the wall just ahead of me, spattering me with some of her blood. I stare, unwilling to accept what my eyes tell me.
'No, he wouldn't! Even if Cockroach was at full power, Carrot would stop him before he could harm Kil!'
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:01:31 am
Carrot barrels down the hallway, heading for the direction of the yelp of surprise.
"I'LL KILL EVERY LAST ONE OF YOU! IT'S FUN!!" Screams the monster that at one time was called Psycho Carrot.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 23, 2011, 12:03:24 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:05:02 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 12:15:12 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:20:16 am
"Khenal. How goes it? I just had a lovely nap. Would you care to join Kil? Oh, and..." I turn my head 180 degrees and say "Kids, come here! Daddy wants you to meet your new friend!"
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 12:30:58 am
With his head pointed away, I swing the blunt end of my spear as hard as I can at his front right knee.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:35:45 am
"...Remember when you weren't sure you had actually left that wonderful world I created? You left alright...BUT SO DID I! I am in your mind now!" Laughs Cockroach.
At this point, the kids arrive. One is missing all it's skin, while the other is dragging a bloody axe that a titan might have used.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:44:04 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 12:45:55 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 12:47:15 am
"If you want to kill me, Psycho, let's play up top."
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 12:49:58 am
"...GAME...GAME...GAME......GAME...GAME...GAME..." Chants the other child.
"YES. LET'S PLAY A GAME. IT'S CALLED: KILL FRIESDEN! IT'S OUR FAVORITE!!!!" Screams 'Psycho'.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 12:57:41 am
((so just for clarity: in reality, Khenal is still standing in the hallway with Friesden babbling to himself while Cockroach screws with his head?))
That's precisely what Khenal fears is happening. And now, back to the show!
My horn flashes as I cast the voice amplification spell, the last spell I plan on casting for quite some time.
"EVERYPONY GET AWAY FROM ME! RUN, FLY TELEPORT, JUST GET AWAY!"
I cease backing up and give the trio a look of steel and ice before stepping closer. 'Even if this is all in my head, at least now everypony knows to stay away from me.'
"You'll never get her."
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 01:07:29 am
Khenal feels hot breath going down his neck.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 01:15:12 am
I spread my wings and about face, trying to fly around or through whatever or whoever is behind me and get up the stairs and to the Tower.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 01:25:41 am
((*see what I did there? Also, TAKE IT AWAY DSARKER!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 01:32:23 am
"It's vital that you listen to me, Khenal. You see, for this fort to function, I need to know how to put together all the little ponies that need operating on. And you, well. You've got all the delicate little parts...hehehe."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 01:37:15 am
I continue past "Friesden", flying up the stairs as fast as I am able, screaming the entire time.
"Everypony get away from me! Cockroach got in, I don't know what's real! Run, I don't want to hurt anypony!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 01:43:20 am
"Come on, Khenal. It's for the good of the fort."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 01:53:57 am
I burst out onto the surface and make a beeline for the door to the Tower, stopping st the door.
'No, not here. Might be real ponies, can't hurt them. Jungle!'
"Stay away from me! I don't want to kill anypony!"
I continue screaming warnings as I streak over the wall and out into the jungle.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 01:57:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 01:58:05 am
Khenal ends up right where he was before he got into the jungle. 'Friesden' is now much closer.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:08:55 am
'Ok, scenery finally broke the rules. I'm in my mental landscape, however much is still mine.... No, don't think like that! Gotta deal with Cockroach!'
I take a few deep breaths before letting the spear vanish and pulling out Loyalty. I continue with my warnings as I take a fighting stance.
"Stay back, everypony. I don't want to hurt you."
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 02:12:19 am
"Aww...you're scaring Firesden...but Friesden is also here and wants you to help her for the good of the fortress!" Mocks Cockroach.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:17:05 am
"Do come here, Khenal."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:18:22 am
"Friesden, run! I don't want to hurt you! I don't know what's real and I can't let anypony near me in case they're Cockroach in disguise! Please, Friesden, get away from me before I hurt you!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:19:38 am
"Khenal, you must not do this! You're acting like a crazy pony."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:25:11 am
"I don't know what's true right now, Friesden! I can't trust anything! Cockroach has gotten too deep, I don't know what to believe any more!"
***********
Is Impending Doom still on? I have something massive planned, and it'd work better if he's here to contribute.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 02:28:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:32:29 am
"ve to save lives, and you can help."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 02:33:00 am
"What's going on here? Friesden, what's wrong with him?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:33:41 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:38:41 am
************
Khenal could use some of that trademark Starkey brutal honesty about now. ;)
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 02:39:55 am
"Khenal, can you hear me? What is it doing to you, what do you see?"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 02:41:22 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:43:57 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 02:49:46 am
"Friesden, go inside, hurry!"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 02:52:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:57:07 am
My mind flashes to my memories of Starkey and his brutal honesty. His unique ability to get to the heart of a matter, to find the path when others try to hide it. To cleave away the lies.
"Cockroach!" I scream, an axe apearing in my mental landscape. I swing it with all my might, somehow knowing just where Cockroach is hiding. In the path of the axe, the fog of blood and gore parts and dissapates.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:02:11 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:06:36 am
I drop the knife, horrified at what I've done.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:06:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:11:38 am
"Khenal," she says weakly. "I...I love you."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 03:14:01 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:14:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:18:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:20:13 am
"I...I love you, too. So much, Friesden..."
I begin sobbing, holding her hoof while Starkey checks her wounds.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 03:21:34 am
Starkey tears the shirt from his back and presses it to the wound, trying to stop the bleeding.
"Otik, I-I don't think we can carry her like this. Fetch the doctor, bring him here!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:23:28 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:24:53 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:29:53 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:30:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:32:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:32:16 am
Friesden is having trouble breathing.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 03:35:24 am
"Hold on sweetheart, I know you can, just a few more minutes. You bested a daemon, this should be nothing to you, where is that damn doctor!?"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:36:55 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 23, 2011, 03:38:35 am
where is that damn doctor!?"
Should Doctor Bubbles not be online. I would point out that in my last fortress update I noted that the NPC Doctor Alen had been released from his punishment. So One of you could assume control of him and let him try and save her.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:39:27 am
**********
We have a nameless doctor or two, I think? Ah,
Edited for derp
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:39:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:40:30 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:49:44 am
"OUT OF THE WAY! IF YOU WANT TO STAY WITH THE PATIENT, KEEP UP WITH ME!" He hollers, quickly slinging Friesden over his should and making a mad dash for the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:50:55 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:52:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:54:23 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:55:19 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:58:09 am
'Warm? Is that good or bad?'
"Shh, save your strength."
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 04:00:08 am
Friesden gets quiet.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:02:45 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:03:30 am
I'll assume that I can take control of the hospital staff, as is most appropriate.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Not that bad!"
EDIT: GOD DAMN IT THE MASTER! STOP NINJAING ME!
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:04:04 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:04:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:05:28 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:06:30 am
((XD. It's finally time for me to start messing things up.))
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:07:57 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:08:32 am
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:10:11 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:10:56 am
*********
Ah, subtlety. Also, Khenal has no medical training at all. Not even a little. He can follow directions, but he has no clue how to heal ponies.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 04:11:34 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:11:51 am
"In it's simplest fashion, just kiss her and breathe into her!"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:13:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:14:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:15:45 am
"Keep it up until I can get her to the hospital. Hopefully Doctor Bubbles is in"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 04:18:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:19:27 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:20:47 am
*They arrive at the hospital door, and the doctor bucks the door open.*
((Bubbles))
"Wha.....what the heck is going on???!?!?!?!??!?!?!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 04:21:22 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:24:05 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:38:06 am
***********
Fading fast....But stuff happening.....
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:39:09 am
((http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyE1z0PiJt8&feature=related))
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:44:43 am
**********
Man, that's a creepy image. But, it's not like the iron lung or anything similar has been invented yet. Looks like we're going with a sucking chest wound for what Khenal actually did to Friesden. Makes sense.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:46:21 am
"Khenal, try and shock her just to make sure she is able to breathe properly."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:54:48 am
My horn crackles with the electricity of the shock spell before I release it into Friesden's heart.
***********
Definitely getting tired. My first instinct to shock her was to tell her that her father was here. I'm sure that'd shock her ;)
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 04:55:47 am
Anyway, ich war einfach gerhorcen Befehle.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 04:56:00 am
EDIT: I'm surrounded by ninjas...
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 04:57:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 05:00:19 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 05:01:00 am
((No, I don't think it would. She doesn't even remember who he is, remember?))
EDIT: I'm surrounded by ninjas...
She'd just ask "Who?"
Anyway, ich war einfach gerhorcen Befehle.
Right, dur. Did I mention I'm tired? Cause I am :P
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 05:01:53 am
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 05:06:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 23, 2011, 05:06:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 05:08:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:22:23 am
"Khenal," she says, then coughs twice. "I'm so sorry."
She falls silent.
((That's all I'm going to post for 8 hours. Have a nice sleep, everyone!))
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 06:45:38 am
*Hearing Friesden talk, Bubbles looks up from the desk and stares.*
"You...You're back to normal? No Daemons, no insane psychopathic murders, no nothing? "
FAKE EDIT:
Oh, nvm.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:09:03 pm
Friesden remains silent for a minute, then says "When you can't run, you crawl. When you can't crawl, when you can't even do that anymore..."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:17:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 02:18:19 pm
"Khenal? Do you know what happened to my book on CPR? I lost it again!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:20:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:25:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:28:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:31:43 pm
'...Keeper? Will she be alright?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:34:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 02:44:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 02:50:52 pm
"Allow me to put it delicately. If Friesden dies, the next thing you will know is this. You're awake. You're facing me. But you won't be armed."
The face changes back.
"Of course, my time I won. But don't be too sure this time."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:12:37 pm
'Keeper, back in the jail with Carrot, you said something about a transfusion. What is it?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:16:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:25:47 pm
I sigh and hang my head.
"I just wish I could do something..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:26:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:31:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:33:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:35:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:39:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:40:43 pm
Also, soundtrack.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BM5vDvi4mXY
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:42:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:46:47 pm
Anyway, I'm liking Friesden!Nice. No killing off yet.))
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:50:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 03:53:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 03:58:45 pm
Ya, that song sounds about right. Assuming Schmoe doesn't kill Khenal ;)
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 03:58:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 04:09:06 pm
I can foresee this line coming from his mouth.
"No, son. You murdered yourself. I just carried the bolt a while."
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 04:28:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 05:03:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 05:38:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 05:43:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 05:46:08 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 06:16:11 pm
"Khenal, I have some good news, and some bad news. Which one do you want to hear first?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:20:48 pm
"She's going to have to lose her limbs. They're going to have to come off."
:P))
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 06:23:50 pm
I keep my wing across Friesden, never moving far from her.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:25:34 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 06:29:46 pm
"The good news... Is that she will survive and go back to normal."
Post by: thetyler101 on November 23, 2011, 06:30:44 pm
page 170
(Sweet fuck-mothery!)
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:33:11 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 06:33:20 pm
(Hey guys, lost my internet for a wile there did I miss any-)
page 170
(Sweet fuck-mothery!)
Hey tyler. I hope you don't mind that I asked Venture to become a doctor.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 23, 2011, 06:35:31 pm
As you may have noticed Venture is all grown up. I had asked for someone to take him as an apprentice or something and Doctor Bubbles stood up to do that. However, I haven't actually played the game since he did and thus if you have any different ideas about Venture's future please say so.)
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 23, 2011, 06:37:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 06:43:20 pm
"Thank you, Bubbles, for saving her. I can't thank you enough for what you've done."
I stay by Friesden's side for the next few hours, hoping to be there when she awakens.
***********
Ya, you only missed....a whole ton of stuff, TheTyler ;) Welcome back!
In other news, got another chapter (http://www.fimfiction.net/story/2892/Glitterglen)finished on the transcription. That makes... almost 150 posts transcribed and...over 2000 to go. To quote Rarity: "What have I gotten myself into?" :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:44:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 06:54:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 06:57:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 07:03:31 pm
"...Or is it evening now?"
I take on a contemplative look before realizing it doesn't really matter and give Friesden a gentle kiss.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 07:09:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 07:15:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 07:16:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 07:24:27 pm
"Also better. I was terrified I had...had..."
I close my eyes to fight the tears, before nuzzling Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 07:32:32 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 07:41:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 07:43:27 pm
************
Yep, new couple mushiness for the last several pages.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 07:45:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 07:46:20 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 07:47:07 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 07:55:45 pm
Khenal remembers that he still hasn't read the letter he was given yesterday.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:04:34 pm
'I can't stay here all day, no matter how much I want to. How much I really want to. I need to give Charity my findings on the investigation, and ask her something as well.'
My motion causes the forgotten letter to crinkle in my armor, reminding me of it's presence.
****************
That's from Carrot, wasn't it?
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 08:06:10 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:09:48 pm
The letter says, 'Khenal, you're in grave danger. Please, for your own safety, get to the top of the tower and meet me there.' you also notice that it's written in blood.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:15:04 pm
I turn and leave, giving Friesden one last glance before exiting the hospital.
'Duty calls...' My horn glows as I levitate out the note to read, my hooves beating a steady path towards Charity's chambers.
The contents of the letter quickly changes my destination.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:16:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:19:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:23:47 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:28:38 pm
"Is...everything alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 08:29:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:33:47 pm
Yells the Pegasus, getting in Khenal's face.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:41:35 pm
"Explain yourself. Quickly."
**********
Edited for derp
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:48:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 08:55:11 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 08:58:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 09:01:38 pm
********
Man, Khenal really needs to learn to keep his freaking spear with him :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 09:05:07 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 09:07:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 09:14:01 pm
I keep the spell ready, unwilling to lower it or my guard.
'Something is wrong...'
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 09:24:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 09:33:05 pm
The energy in my horn starts bleeding away as whatever was in that dart starts to take effect.
"That pegasus..." My question goes unfinished as my eyes start to lose focus and I sit roughly.
"Why?"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 09:36:15 pm
Khenal wakes up in a dark wooden tunnel with flames slowly engulfing one end of it.
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 10:01:02 pm
'Cockroach is far to accurate a name for that daemon. And I'm tired of his games.'
With a powerful buck, I shatter the nearest wall of this wooden tunnel.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 10:06:47 pm
Khenal nearly falls into the oblivion that is below.
Meanwhile in the real world...
Khenal's managed to jump off the tower and is gliding over the jungle.
((here's something to note: you can still feel things that are in the real world.))
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 10:15:36 pm
'You are in my brier patch, Cockroach. It's time I show you the error of following me in.'
*********
Time to remind a certain Daemon who's mind he's in.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 10:21:27 pm
Meanwhile in a different part of Khenal's mind...
"...SHUT UP ALREADY! I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE ANSWER TO PI! STOP TALKING!!!!!!!!" Whines Cockroach as Keeper literally is begining to bore him to death.
((Feel free to voice Keeper, Dsarker.))
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 10:33:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 10:36:11 pm
"Yes, I agree. The answer to π is terribly easy. The real question is the second last digit, which is actually 4. The importance of this digit is immense! You literally cannot go a day without the digit entering into it. You know why there are twelve months and four seasons? 4. Because of the 4, you can trust that every thirty days you will have experienced one twelth of the year. It's because of Kryten's Conjunction that we can even predict the four. Kryten it was who predicted a year's dates and the sequence of months and seasons, and it is Kryten who established the dating system. That's why we have the month of Obsidian, which as you might know has the same etymology as Kryten does. However, they were used in quite different contexts. Kryten is far more of the informal version, whereas you would use Obsidian in a formal context. Which is quite interesting, actually, because it was typically K words which were the formal type. To understand the reasoning behind this, we have to dig to the origin of the language, which of course you should know. Every schoolfoal gets taught this. Anyway, the word Obsidian was preferred by the twenty-third ruler of Klatch, and so it was accepted as the formal version while he reigned. However, due to a population explosion, there were far too many ponies using Obsidian as the formal to switch it back, and so it stuck. Interesting, don't you think?"
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 10:39:27 pm
"AND STAY QUIET!!!!!!!!" Yells Cockroach.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 10:48:04 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 10:58:28 pm
In the real world, Khenal is now plummeting out of the sky.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:05:33 pm
"It's another interesting thought, but did you know that all ponies have ambient magic? Unicorns and alicorns can control it, of course, but all of them have it. Even the most mundane earth pony. It was this that allowed the famous assassin 'The Black Viper' to go undetected, as he was an earth pony who had learned to use his ambient magic to make himself unremarkable to onlookers. While the authorities were looking for an unicorn. But unicorns have been well known for their manual dexterity through the years, and it was this that allowed them to build the empire of Klatch right outside Hrul Rassp. They eventually conquered the Diomedian city and remade it in their image. This is the reason for the mural 'Catching Flight', which you might see in the capital. It was named for reference of the unicorn and pegasus dual attack, in which the unicorns held the diomedian flyers down long enough for the pegasus to make quick work of them. But then again, it was also well known that alicorns have much more power than unicorns. Their problem has typically been that of control as opposed to power. This, of course, has its own penalties, but with training an alicorn can, so it is said, turn day into night. Interesting, eh?"
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 11:10:46 pm
'I'm close, I can hear Cockroach. Friesden is hurt because of him, no more mr nice alicorn.'
I douse the light from my horn and rocket towards Cockroach, intending to take him off guard with as much speed as I can imagine. Unfortunately, it looks like he was expecting that. I conjure terain for myself, bringing my haven around myself.
It resembles a Roman garden, marble columns and fountains with crystal clear water flowing. Willows and flowers of all kinds are visible from the gazebo I now stand in. Recent additions include several topiarys trimmed to look like Friesden, along with many statues of her.
I growl and buck Cockroach off my back, drawing Starkey's Honesty and charging him as he hits the ground.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 11:12:21 pm
Just before cockroach hits the so-called-ground, Khenal hears that incressingly annoying bwong sound. Khenal's happy world explodes into flames, obliterating it. It's replaced by an infinite stone hallway, full of blood, guts, limbs, bodies, bodies without limbs, chickens without bodies, and other nonsensical...grimdark...ness...
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:18:08 pm
"But of course you know the other two. First there was the 'Hundred Years' war. Ha, that was a laugh. War between the buffalo and the ponies. Neither using any weapons, and with a referee! Not as funny as the Rainbow/Rainbow war. At least it was fast, though. Otherwise it could have turned violent. Anyway, it was the Rainbow/Rainbow war which brought about the Kingdom of Domains. And without that, the Diomedian forces would have advanced another two miles in the Battle of Eating, and that would have cut off the Alicorn Princess Duvvia from her main force, and left her vulnerable. And that would have stopped this expedition short, with her being the only thing holding the ponies together. So without the Rainbows, this would never have happened. Strange, isn't it."
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 11:21:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:23:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 11:23:55 pm
I cease my ruse and wave Starkey's Honesty, my horn flashing as I assert my will. In the path of the axe, the gruesome scenery reverts back, but not completely. The garden becomes a patchwork of nightmare and dream, gruesome hallway clashing with green grass and white marble, both scenes fighting for dominance.
I charge Cockroach, Honesty raised high.
**************
I just realized, I have no idea what Cockroach looks like. I can aim at head and torso just fine, but detail on what he looks like would be nice.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:26:39 pm
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 11:33:47 pm
"Funny...I didn't see this one coming. Fu-" Mutters Cockroach before being sliced in half, sending a grimdark spray of blood, intestines, gore, and other parts of the body, left and right. The gore scene also takes dominance and refuses to vanish, despite Cockroach being dead for the day.
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:37:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 11:42:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:44:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 11:46:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:49:04 pm
Friesden lands and lowers Khenal from her back carefully.
"Khenal? Are you okay? Can you hear me?"
Post by: Khenal on November 23, 2011, 11:55:56 pm
As I break my trance, I hear Friesden's concerned voice and see her worried face.
"Friesden! Are you alright?"
**********
Edited for more derp. I'm on a roll today.
Post by: The Master on November 23, 2011, 11:57:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 23, 2011, 11:58:10 pm
There's a look of anxiety on her face, a little relieved now that Khenal is responding.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:06:56 am
'Looks like he damaged my memories of flying with that trick.'
"They don't hurt, but I don't think I'll be flying for a while. I'm just glad you're safe."
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:08:46 am
She suddenly grabs Khenal and holds him tight. "I was so worried...I'm just glad you're safe."
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:13:27 am
"It should, it'll just take time."
After several moments of bliss, I open my eyes and notice our surroundings for the first time.
"...Where are we?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:15:35 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:18:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:20:47 am
My horn glows as I levitate the body of the unknown pegasus.
'And I need to resign my position as Captain of the Guard.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:26:15 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:29:44 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:31:31 am
'I almost hope it's all in my head. At least then nopony will have died.'
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:33:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:36:16 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:37:41 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:42:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:43:57 am
"We'll...we'll get through this, my love. We'll get through this."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:44:13 am
'I DO SAY, BUT IF YOU DO NOT HURRY UP AND SAVE GLACIER, THAT POOR FELLOW WILL HAVE A QUITE DREADFUL DEATH!'
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:48:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 12:49:44 am
"He's alive! Come on!"
I break into a galop, levitating Glacier Chap with me as I rush to the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 12:51:18 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 12:52:48 am
((EAT THAT DSARKER! :P))
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:01:23 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:02:03 am
****************
Ya, no medical miracle stuff from Khenal this time. We have trained professionals who can treat wounds, they really should get their chance to shine.
Also, Khenal's head is becoming a freaking clowncar :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:05:10 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:09:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:16:39 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:19:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:20:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:22:44 am
I hang my head.
"I don't know. I don't remember hurting him, but I don't exactly trust my memory right now."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:26:15 am
Psycho trots into the hospital to have his left front hoof checked out. It's hurting quite alot after knocking on Khenal's office door for five hours straight.
"Hey guys-" He sees Friesden, "ysug yeH" Psycho says backwords as he trots backwards out of the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:29:16 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:31:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:33:35 am
((So far I own...Psycho, Alen, and Glacier...why me? WHERE'S A SHUGPONY WHEN YOU NEED IT?!))
Ah, I didn't know you claimed Alen as well. I thought he was another npc pony. Well, get to fixing yourself.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:35:45 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 01:39:14 am
((I didn't officially, but I was the first one to control him directly, correct?))
Correct, but he's an NPC and I'd rather he'd stay as such. His job means he comes up often, but I'd rather not have him be fully owned by one player. Just sort of used by whoever when it comes up. Specifically, when Bubbles isn't available and the plot needs a doctor.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:41:13 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:43:36 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 01:46:19 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:46:46 am
*********
So, a description of how he's injured would be nice. :P Remember, Khenal had no weapon when he went to the tower.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 01:49:16 am
:P))
"He seems a little....disorganised?" says Friesden sheepishly.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 01:58:04 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 02:01:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 02:04:15 am
She looks around for a water source.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 02:07:02 am
She looks around for a water source.
(The well is in the hospital, right next to the beds.)
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:07:15 am
"I thought I put you dow- I MEAN, Hi Khenal...and...F-f-f-f-friesd-d-den..."
When he heard Friesden say 'love' to Khenal he instantly collapses.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 02:14:53 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:16:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 02:21:56 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:25:37 am
As Khenal cleans the wounds, he hears Butler say,
'...FOR THE LAST TIME YOU BUFFOON, WHILE YOU'RE BUSY MUKING ABOUT, CLEANING UP BLOODY BITE MARKS, YOU HAVE FAILED TO CHECK GLACIER'S HEARTBEAT! DO SO NOW BEFORE I STRANGLE KEEPER!!!!!!' Yells butler, clearly distressed.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 02:27:02 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 02:31:34 am
I try to find Glacier's pulse, checking several places.
************
Personally, I can never find a pulse.
Also, leave the poor 4th wall alone. It never did anything to hurt you. There there, 4th wall. Want to get some icecream?
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:44:30 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:45:11 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 02:51:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:52:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 02:55:38 am
"How in the nine hells and all that is below it would I know? I can't tell you anything Friesden or Schmoe doesn't know. Neither of them are particularly interested in keeping hearts going. Friesden's more of the stopping them, and Schmoe is more of the doesn't care, type. And get this fool of a thing out of our head, why don't you?"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 02:58:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:03:44 am
I begin charging my shock spell, though not to full power.
'Hopefully, a small shock will keep a heart going. It doesn't look like anypony else has any better ideas.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:05:23 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:07:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:13:08 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:15:55 am
'I miss being the only one in my head. So, Mr. Butler, any ideas on how to keep his heart beating and you back in his head instead of mine?'
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:26:18 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:29:30 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:33:15 am
Butler picks up a lamp that just happened to exist, and throws it at Keeper.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:35:12 am
DO NOT TEMPT ME.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:37:42 am
'COCKLE-DIDLE-DOOOOO!' screams the rooster before exploding into gore for no reason at all.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:39:41 am
Meanwhile, in the real world, I give Friesden a very tired look.
"I'm sorry, my love, but could you see if any of the nurses are about? I don't think this pony is going to make it with just our help. I...need to sit down. Things are getting....crowded, and I need to concentrate."
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:40:39 am
Friesden starts at Khenal's voice. "Yes, of course, my love. Are you okay? Do you want me to see if a nurse can see you too?"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:45:59 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:49:32 am
"I don't think they are trained for what ails me. Don't worry, I'll be alright."
'...I think.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:52:00 am
The Keeper transforms back into Schmoe, who wraps himself around the Butler, the tiny mouths eating through him gradually.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:58:03 am
I attempt to link with the mind of the unconscious pegasus, hoping to dump this newcomer back where he came from.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:00:32 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:03:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:06:43 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:13:02 am
((HAH! I BROKE THE FOURTH WALL! MWAHHAHAAHHAHAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I STOLE IT'S ICE CREAM TOO!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:15:16 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 04:16:43 am
"Whats wrong? I heard Khenal and Friesden talking....oh."
((1. Bubbles really needs a new steel door.
2. Guys, I'd appreciate it if you didn't take my spot XD. try not to get to injuring anyone or other antics when I'm not here. ))
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:20:47 am
Psycho wakes up, sees an icy mist flowing into the blue pegasus, and promptly faints again.
Glacier wakes up, coughing heavily.
"Oi...my head...where am I? And who's miss hotie?" He look at Friesden as he says this. "THIS IS SO RADICAL!"
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:22:35 am
**************
Hearing me and Friesden just talking = bucking your door down? Does Bubbles just hate doors? :P As far as injuring ourselves goes...um...it was his fault! *I point at The Master and run*
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 04:22:55 am
((Yeah, I love kicking doors))
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:26:35 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:27:21 am
The third wall falls and crushes Khenal under the rubble, then thousands of nothings come pouring out of the hole.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:28:05 am
Friesden jumps back from the pegasus, and hurries over to Khenal.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:35:52 am
'...I think the letter was real?'
"Who are you, and what happened on the tower?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:37:03 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 04:43:48 am
"Oops."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:46:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:46:56 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:51:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:52:29 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:53:51 am
"I say...It'll be alright, chap. I'm sorry for scaring you..."
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:57:20 am
"I am Khenal. Sorry to be rude, but I have something of dire importance to attend to."
I gently nudge my beloved towards the door and out of the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:58:08 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:01:16 am
I swoop in front of the couple, purposefully getting in their way.
"No, that's not how you introduce yourself. Here, I'll start." He stabs Khenal in the chest with a knife covered in forgotten beast extract.
"THIS IS MY NAME, SCHMOE! KNOW IT!!!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:11:04 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 05:13:29 am
*Rage builds up inside Bubbles, and he lets loose a blinding flash of light, and when it dissipates, the knife is gone, then re-appears, albeit without the forgotten beast extract.*
((I mean to imply Bubbles can release his rage to send tendrils of light flying everywhere. Hows that now, the master?))
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:14:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:15:21 am
Ya, I had a post typed, but now it's gone :P No big deal, though. I need to sleep on the sudden turn, though.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:15:29 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 05:16:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:16:13 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:17:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:18:47 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:19:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:20:38 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:23:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:23:52 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:25:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:26:41 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:28:23 am
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:29:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:31:55 am
And 2100 means 9 PM. You in Oceania or Asia, Darkening?
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:35:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:38:31 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:45:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:54:56 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 24, 2011, 05:58:02 am
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 24, 2011, 12:12:59 pm
Just a few days ago I started watching My Little Pony. Now I'M STILL WATCHING IT!!
Will this quickly turn into an obsession???! HELP ME PLEASE!!! Fluttershy is soooo cute!!! <3 AAAAHH! WHAT AM I SAYING??? NOOOOOO....!!! IT'S TOOO LAAAATE!!!
:o
I have become one with the minion force.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 01:44:16 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
On a slightly related note, can we dial the insanity back a bit? It feels like we're taking over and discouraging everyponyelse from contributing.
Oh, and welcome to the herd, Chosen One :D
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 24, 2011, 01:58:02 pm
Oh, and welcome to the herd, Chosen One :D
The herd? THE HERD??? So I'm not the only one insane???
Thank ARMOK!!!!! Thought I was gonna get sent to the loony bin for sure!!!
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 02:14:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:01:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:41:13 pm
"See, this is why I keep my armor on."
My horn flashes as I send a surge of telekinetic force straight into the lower mandible of Glacier, hoping to break his jaw and his grip.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:44:41 pm
"IT'S HAPPENING JUST LIKE THEY SAID IT WOULD! THEY SAY I WILL BE KILLED IN ANOTHER HIT!" Laughs Glacier manically.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 03:45:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 03:52:51 pm
"Fine. Let's see if they are correct."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 03:55:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:00:32 pm
He's an alicorn, who vowed to destroy all daemons and to save the one he loved. He's a daemon, lost and without purpose, seeking only to destroy and to die.
Together, they fight crime!))
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:03:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:08:24 pm
"Friesden?"
***************
Still no medical training for Khenal; he doesn't realize how dangerous that extract might be.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:09:47 pm
"Khenal? Is it... Is it over?"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:11:43 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:13:12 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:22:03 pm
Sweat begins beading on my brow.
"Or maybe not. I think that dagger was poisoned."
I try to continue towards the jail, but my movements are slow and uncoordinated. I collapse just before the stairs, sweating as my body fights the extract.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:24:50 pm
((HINT: There's always a reason to live, if you look for it.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:24:57 pm
"Love, you're going to the hospital. No arguments now."
She carries him to the hospital.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:32:02 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:33:12 pm
Friesden lowers Khenal into a spare hospital bed.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:35:09 pm
Khenal begins to hallucinate, and he sees all the ponies he's killed in his lifetime, and it feels like that whenever he touches one, he gets weaker and weaker.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 04:42:08 pm
***************
Khenal hasn't killed hardly anypony, actually. The only deaths he really blames himself for are those from the Daemon Experiment, and he's dealt with that part of himself already.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 04:42:58 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 04:56:17 pm
"What is it this time...?" Asks alen in his most caring voice.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:01:05 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:02:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:03:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:05:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:07:13 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:09:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:10:26 pm
"What're ye doing here, lassy?" asks one of them in a gruff tone.
"Khenal was poisoned by this pony! I have to find the dagger so that the doctor can prepare an antidote," answers Friesden.
One of the unicorn guardsponies picks up the knife and hands it to Friesden gingerly.
"Mind if we come along? We've got to question all the witnesses. Including Khenal."
"Um...okay!"
Friesden leads the motley crew back to the hospital.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:12:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:15:19 pm
"Escape -where-, doctor? If he was trying to escape, why would he come to a hospital? Just do your job, and no funny business."
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:18:21 pm
My legs twitch weakly as I try to drag myself away, but the poison has sapped my strength.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:19:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:19:54 pm
"It'll be alright, my love. The doctor will fix you up. Just be strong, please. Don't leave me alone, love."
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:25:13 pm
I stop twitching and smile weakly, trying to focus on the face of the one I love.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:26:20 pm
Friesden hugs Khenal tight.
"Stay. If only for me, my love."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:31:25 pm
"There's nothing I can do...I've never seen anything like it...Unless you have any ideas, i'm afraid..." His voice trails off.
((TAKE IT AWAY YOU TWO! BE INCREDIBLE! music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0NqNq_hnqQ))
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:37:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:39:27 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:40:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:41:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 05:43:40 pm
'No...Can't leave her alone...'
My forelimbs begin twitching again, as I try to embrace my love.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:45:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:47:00 pm
Friesden leans close and embraces Khenal.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 05:47:56 pm
"Hello, Khenal, this is your early alarm call. Has anything unnatural happened recently? If so, check that Cockroach is finally dead. Hello, Khenal, this is your early alarm call..."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:51:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 05:55:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 06:02:21 pm
'Can't leave Friesden.'
'Can't let Cockroach win!'
"Can't leave Friesden!"
My eyes focus and I embrace my love, my strength returning.
"Friesden!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 06:11:00 pm
"What..... "
*Bubbles sees the necrosis and the knife then charges back inside the office, coming out with a MASSIVE amount of syringes all labeled differently.*
"Friesden, inject him with these, quickly!"
*Bubbles takes the knife and starts examining it furiously.*
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 06:18:03 pm
"Khenal!" she says through the tears. "You.. You're alright!"
She returns the embrace.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 06:20:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 06:20:58 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 24, 2011, 06:31:35 pm
---------------
"Ok, this, and that... And... Bingo!"
*I stab the antidote into Khenal.*
-------------
Gtg
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 06:46:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 06:48:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 06:58:24 pm
"Hey, if you're not too busy hugging your wife, would you like to see this book I found? It's a fictional book about a war that happens far in the future!" Psycho says, not quite noticing the glares from everyone.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 06:59:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 07:00:58 pm
Friesden continues holding her love tight.
((At some point, you're going to have to isolate them together in game so we actually get some of the effects in game))
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 07:09:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 07:10:58 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 07:20:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 07:21:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 07:23:58 pm
Also, ending with a smiley because everypony else is :P
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 07:41:09 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 07:57:07 pm
"I love this fortress..." He sighs.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 08:03:22 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 08:07:39 pm
Psycho gets off the ground and decides that it's time to leave this fortress. He wants to be an explorer now, and so he visits Khenal to say goodbye.
"Khenal?" I say, knocking on his door.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 08:09:13 pm
"Khenal? Love?"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 08:10:01 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 08:11:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 08:12:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 08:19:10 pm
I shakily get up to open the door.
"Friesden! And Carrot! Come in, come in."
*****************
Getting ready to transcribe the next chapter, so I apologize for slow replies.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 08:23:29 pm
"Love, I've been knocking for some time. What's wrong?"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 08:26:16 pm
"Guys...I've decided that I want to go explore the world. I won't be coming back."
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 08:37:07 pm
I nuzzle Friesden to reassure her.
"Sorry to make you worry."
I then turn to look at Carrot.
"Leaving to explore? Why, Carrot? What about Kil and your foals?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 08:40:03 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 08:45:55 pm
"I don't love her much anymore, after all that I've been through...and besides, she's a nurse, who knows what she does behind my back. Can you take care of them?" Psycho asks with a saddened look on his face.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 08:52:00 pm
"She loves you, Carrot, and I doubt she'd do anything behind your back. I understand about your past, but are you sure you have to leave?"
I look to Friesden and smile warmly.
"Loved ones make the troubles so much easier to bear."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 09:05:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 09:06:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 09:13:17 pm
"Um..."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 09:16:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 09:23:47 pm
"Carrot...I'm so sorry. I can't even imagine how you must feel."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 09:39:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 09:42:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 09:44:37 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 09:48:12 pm
He has also given Charity his letter of resignation as Captain of the Guard, and is prepared to argue if she doesn't want to accept it ;)
:o
Charity gallops down to see Khenal in his
Edit: Correction!
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 09:49:24 pm
"Well, that doesn't matter...I have no reason to keep living like this. Heh, like you care...you actually have someone..." He drops the book he wanted to show Khenal yesterday at Friesden's hooves, and begins to make his way into the unforgiving jungle.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 09:49:56 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 09:52:32 pm
((PSST KHENAL IS IN HIS PRIVATE QUARTERS. Also, music for scene http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sty7tvJfR8I))
I have fixed the error!
Edit: Although in the actual fortress design and thus in my head, Khenals private quarters are behind his office and thus only accessible by going through the office. I guess I never really made that clear to anyone else though.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 09:56:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:02:32 pm
The book says 'Equestria: Total War' on the cover. http://www.fimfiction.net/story/2354/Equestria%3A-Total-War
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:03:19 pm
At this point, Charity bursts in, demanding an explanation. I jump a bit at her sudden entrance, but stay on my bed. I do, however, bow my head to her.
"Hello Countess Charity. I am no longer fit to perform my duties; physically or mentally, I fear."
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:05:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:07:37 pm
"Carrot, wait!"
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:09:13 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 10:11:51 pm
(Has Charity been told about the poisioning? If yes then she also says the following, without pausing.)
"And I realize that the posioning might take you off your hooves for awhile but we have several great doctors here you'll be back on your hooves in no time. You don't need to resign just take a few days or weeks off. You'll be fine."
At this point she finally stops ranting enough that somepony else can get a word in.
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:16:28 pm
"One got in, Charity. He got in! I've destroyed and sealed him several times, but he keeps coming back! I...I almost killed Friesden because of his influence! I should be in a cell, not my room!"
**************
I didn't forget to close my quote, nope.
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:18:53 pm
"G-g-good bye..." He says while sobbing.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 10:19:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 10:21:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:27:06 pm
I lean into Friesden's touch, encouraged by her words and presence.
***************
Ya, the one who actually has an adamantine artifact weapon is the only one Khenal trusts to stand against daemon influence. I only know the name because of the transcribing I'm doing right now :P
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:30:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 10:32:05 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 10:37:52 pm
Info on Isos if she becomes important. She is an earthpony mare who is married to Tunur our armorer and has an earthpony foal and a newborn Pegasus foal. Also, as mentioned she is a knife fighter, who wields the Adamantine dagger Goodsnarled the Principle of Slowing an artifact, made my Ironya.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 10:41:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:46:03 pm
I start to struggle back to my bed, before wondering if it's actually still mine.
"Um, will I need to get different chambers?"
***************
For curiosity's sake, what's her knife fighter skill?
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:49:08 pm
Carrot is now deep in the jungle. He's stopped crying and is now quietly mumbling as heads deeper and deeper into the mass of trees and vines.
"Who needs then anyway...nopony will remember me when i'm gone."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 10:52:15 pm
Ninja's everywhere!
"Leave? Why would he leave? He has no where to go? Wasn't he banished here? He can't go back to Tailentranced. Sure, I'll send out his squad to look for him."
"And yeah, you're going to need to move, This is the room of the Captain of the Guard. I'll have a new home dug out for you. Any preference for location? Somewhere near the dinning hall perhaps? Or near the Carpentry shops?"
Edit: will post Isos's combat skills below. If it doesn't show up at first. Refresh a few times.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Isos%20Nutstell.png)
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 10:55:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 10:58:37 pm
I shakily nuzzle Friesden.
"And for my love, if she doesn't mind?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 10:59:53 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 11:05:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 11:11:06 pm
I only barely register Charity's words and exit, lost in Friesden's eyes.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 11:14:53 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 11:15:20 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 24, 2011, 11:18:40 pm
((You're just ASKING for insanity. STOP THIS PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTIONS BEFORE I UNLEASH MY ACE-IN-THE-HOLE!))
(Maybe it's best to dial back the insanity a little bit? It could be scaring away other potential ponies, and we don't want that.)
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 11:19:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 11:21:00 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 11:22:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 11:26:27 pm
****************
I just remembered he worships deities of love and charity. No wonder he's so sappy :P
It's about time we started running out of juice, heh. Maybe I'll get a chance to start making headway in the transcribing. New chapter (http://www.fimfiction.net/story/2892/Glitterglen), by the way.
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 11:32:06 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 11:34:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 11:38:47 pm
"If you say so, love."
*************
Heh, sounds like scene for us then. Honestly, this can only go to: "I love you more." "No, I love you more." And I think that might actually kill The Master over there ;D
Post by: Dsarker on November 24, 2011, 11:42:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 24, 2011, 11:46:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 24, 2011, 11:51:30 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 12:37:44 am
(Maybe it's best to dial back the insanity a little bit? It could be scaring away other potential ponies, and we don't want that.)
Yeah, I'll admit it's scared me away from joining in on the madness, heh. I've read the entire thread up to this point, and I'm still a bit lost on where it's all been and where it's going. Since it's been primarily RPing about a few characters repeatedly going insane, I figured there wasn't room for anypony else really. If things settle down a bit back into "fortress" mode I might reconsider joining in. :D
On topic, I'm pretty interested to see where this is going with Khenal. Rather than wildly speculate I guess I'll just keep reading to see where it goes.
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 12:40:05 am
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 12:59:27 am
I'm pretty interested to see where this is going with Khenal.
Heh, you and me both. I only ever have a vague idea of what I want to happen, then do my best to improvise in that direction. And don't feel intimidated with the craziness, join us! I think the worst of the insanity is past, for now at least. Or until something relatively minor in-game happens that we can all have a cow over rp-wise :D
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 01:07:21 am
Anyway, off to doodle another illustration for Dawnpick.
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 01:19:32 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 25, 2011, 01:34:50 am
REQUISITION FORM 149A
LIST ITEMS : 1/4 roll (2,500 units) of thread
2 dressings.
PURPOSE: not willing to let that hack, Dr Bubbles, treat my recent wound, so I'm stitching it up myself.
COMMENTS:
By the way, I like the new and improved requisition form, sorry about the mess I made looking for the Stock Advisory Form, hope it doesn't take to long to clean up.
Anyway, I need to report two (2) severely mangled honey badger pegasus corpses deposited in the butcher's workshop, I don't know the full details, it looks like they were in an airborne fight and fell onto the topmost level of the tower, expiring on impact, also took several severed limbs to the refuse pile. Blood and gore was cleaned up so no need to send anyone to clean it up.
SIGNATURE: ThunderSplinter, Carpentry Lead.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 01:56:42 am
Also, Thunder Splinter is likely going to be seeing a lot more of Khenal for a while. Hopefully he doesn't break too many of her chisels ;)
Also also, linky for Fallout Equestria (http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html), as requested. Sorry it's a bit late, but I did say I was disappearing :)
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 02:02:22 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 25, 2011, 02:16:43 am
Also, Thunder Splinter is likely going to be seeing a lot more of Khenal for a while. Hopefully he doesn't break too many of her chisels ;)
Doubtful, ThunderSplinter moved her workshop into the tower and works from there, you'll probably be stuck down in the workshop area with the other carpenter, I forget his name. The tower is almost complete and ThunderSplinter will soon be out of work, except possibly for woodcutting.
Darkening Kaos, CIS, LUH}}
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 03:47:19 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 03:50:01 am
"I d-d-on't need anypony...I can s-s-survive on m-m-my own!" Chatters Psycho, now very cold and hungry.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 03:55:57 am
Captain Khenal has officially resigned from his post. His retirement will net him a nice private quarters, and private dinning room for him and his “fillyfriend?” Friesden. It's in the process of being constructed as I write.
His replacement as Guard Captain is an earthpony mare named Isos. She isn't who I would have chose, but she was recommended by Khenal, so I'll give her a chance to prove herself.
8th Moonstone, 98
As the assissin who targeted me in my office, was apparently able to sneak into our armory, and steal a crossbow. I've decided to have our mechanics place a trap in there by the door, to catch a thief unawares. I just placed an order with Ironya for a bismuth bronze serrated saw blade to use in the trap.
11th Moonstone, 98
A troop of Mandrills attacked our ponies working on the surface. I'm sending the Skyguard out to deal with them.
14th Moonstone, 98
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Grifen%20withdraws.png)
Grifen has been acting quite strangely, hasn't talked in days. And now he's locked himself in Pillomino's workshop.
15th Moonstone, 98
The skyguard is back from hunting. They killed a lot of apes. The butchers will be happy.
23rd Moonstone, 98
Grifen has finally come out of Pillomino's workshop. He has made a beautiful floodgate, made of Gold ore and decorated with obsidian and marble, and gems. It's a true work of art.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Contested%20Bristle.png)
He calls it “The Contested Bristle”.
9th Opal, 98
Khenal and Friesden have been living in their new home for a few days now. Though it was only officially finished today. Today, I had a private shower added to their room. (Complete with Rose Gold Fixtures.) The basic home is a small dinning hall for the two of them that branches from the normal living quarters area, and then you go through another door and pass the shower, and then your in the bed room. Pillomino and I worked together to produce a pair of statues for the room. We both choose the founding of Glitterglen as the topic, but mine shows the ponies traveling too the jungle, and her's shows ponies laboring to create the fort. I wonder which one the couple will like better? We also had all the artists of Glitterglen, carve images/murals/history/etc, into the wall of the rooms to give them a bit more character.
23rd Opal, 98
Nicolta Tesla was ambushed by a hoard of crudles in the caverns. I'm going to send the militia to deal with them.
2nd Obsidian, 98
A lump of petrified wood (OOC: a stone for those who don't know) I had bought off the last caravan along with a large serrated bismuth bronze disc I ordered from Ironya has gone missing. I've reported the possible theft to the guard.
Additionally, the militia apparently missed a crudle because one attacked Venture when she was trying to reload a cage trap in the cavern. She managed to kill it, but she ran back to the fort covered in it's blood. She ran straight to the hospital to wash it off. She's quite upset.
5th Obsidian, 98
According to the stories I've overheard in the dinning hall. Starkey really impressed the other troops during the crudle hunt.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Martial%20Trance%20Starkey.png)
16th Obisidian 98
Our scouts have spotted a Rainbow Cravan.
(Well Telgin as far as a suggestion as to which pony to take I can't really do so without some idea of what you'd like to play. However, we have plenty of unclaimed militia ponies or members of the guard, both of the melee or ranged variety. In non-combat positions that could have some, point, in the plotline. You could always take a relative of one of our other players. Venture's father, Psycho's wife, etc. Also, with Venture all grown up, you could always start the new CMC Fortress Foals. We have many foals to choose from, (Including Psycho's kids ;) Cutie Mark Crusaders Parental Abuse Victims Yay!) Or you could be a farmer, or mason, or cheesemaker and then just force your way into the story by whatever means necessary.)
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:21:33 am
((Oh, and it should be fillyfriend, methinks.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 04:23:03 am
((Oh, and it should be fillyfriend, methinks.))
Oh, that makes sense. Fixed.
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:24:31 am
Now, what race to use...Rainbows or Lions....))
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:25:37 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 04:26:48 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:27:26 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 04:32:36 am
(http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110831175829/mlp/images/thumb/b/bc/Gilda_snaps_red_background_speed_lines_S1E05.png/585px-Gilda_snaps_red_background_speed_lines_S1E05.png) (http://mlp.wikia.com/index.php?title=Gilda&image=Gilda_snaps_red_background_speed_lines_S1E05-png)
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:34:18 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:39:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:40:37 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:42:38 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 25, 2011, 05:12:40 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:17:10 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 25, 2011, 05:18:30 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:23:02 am
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:29:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 07:48:46 am
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 25, 2011, 01:13:54 pm
Me: THIS IS DWARF FORTRESS.
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 25, 2011, 01:15:28 pm
((NOW I'M GOING TO BED! G'NIGHT EVERYPONY!))
OMG the master YOU ARE GOING TO MAKE ME DREAM ABOUT PONIES WITH YOUR LAME SIDEQUOTES!!!! :/
Ah, it's spring again.
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 02:05:13 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 02:51:03 pm
After some thought, I think I'd prefer a military pony of some sort. Preferably a melee pony instead of a markspony, but no preference on the weapon really. Also preferably married, but if that's not possible it's no biggie.
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 03:02:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 03:02:16 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 03:06:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 03:58:59 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:03:11 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:04:57 pm
"Khenal," said Friesden. "Have you heard any news of Carrot recently?"
((Oh, and it should be fillyfriend, methinks.))
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 04:18:13 pm
I shake my head, missing my friend.
"I hope he's alright."
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:20:21 pm
"f-f-friends...no n-n-n-n-need-d-d-d..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:21:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 04:28:45 pm
'Couldn't hurt, and it might get me out of this funk.'
I smile at my love.
"I haven't, but I think now is the perfect time to remedy that."
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:30:57 pm
Quote
My wings were still uncoordinated my legs were still a bit weak))
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:31:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 04:37:20 pm
"...dun give a clop! Yer commander is out there freezin' 'is arse off, 'ee dunnae 'ave time fer you lot ta take a rest!"
Another voice, this one too low to be heard.
"Oh? Well I s'pose if 'ee dunnae make it, then ye'll be assigned under me, now won't ye?"
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:39:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 04:45:09 pm
"Like you said, my love: Another pair of eyes couldn't hurt. Lets see if Captain Otik can join us."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 04:47:33 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 04:48:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 04:55:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 04:57:06 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:18:02 pm
As Khenal. Friesden, and Otik approach the jungle, they begin discussing search strategies.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 05:24:24 pm
She snaps him a salute anyways - once in service, always in service.
"Is there anythin' I ken do fer ye?"
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 05:32:00 pm
"Friesden and I were about to try our hooves at searching for Captain Carrot. Would you be able to join us, Captain?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 05:37:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 05:37:30 pm
She shoots a sharp glare at the two soldiers.
"Sisters know I could use some real help out there."
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:38:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 05:53:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 05:59:07 pm
*Outside, a few minutes later*
"Rain, of course."
I light my horn, creating an umbrella of telekinetic force ten feet across.
'Getting a cold would just be the icing on the cake, wouldn't it?'
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 06:13:37 pm
As the group entered the dark jungle, Otik had a sickening sensation that this was just far too easy.
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 06:15:05 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 06:16:34 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 06:23:53 pm
Would you like either of them?
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 06:26:26 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 06:31:13 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 06:36:33 pm
((ahem?))
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 07:07:03 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 07:35:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 07:40:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 07:45:12 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 08:16:34 pm
Telgin. I can't find any ponies in the militia that meet the requirements of being married and being melee. Got a markspony that does I think. However, in the guard I have two you might be interested in. Assuming you don't mind playing a mare. We have Isos our new Captain of the Guard. She is married and has two foals. Also, in the guard we have a unicorn mother, she has a unicorn daughter, and well I've assigned her a hammer, she's only a novice in it, but she's a proficient biter. Interesting thing about the unicorn is that when she migrated here she had a daughter but no husband, the father of the foal doesn't show up in either ponies relationship list. So you might be able to have some fun with that.
Would you like either of them?
Playing a mare doesn't bother me. The single unicorn sounds interesting, there definitely does sound to be some potential there. In my last pony fort I named all of my ponies after weapons and armor, so how about renaming her Falcata? It's a sword, not a mace, but it sounds interesting anyway. Any description of her or her daughter? Might think up a name for her daughter too.
Now to also think up an excuse for getting exiled to Glitterglen...
Edit: By the way, would she have any relationship to Starkey or Khenal? Served with either in anyway?
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 08:27:32 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 25, 2011, 08:28:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 08:30:33 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 25, 2011, 08:31:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 08:32:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 08:32:37 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 08:39:24 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 08:49:25 pm
Below you should find the in-game descriptions of Falcata and her daughter.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
As far as knowing Khenal she's been with the guard training under him since she moved to Glitterglen about a year, year and a half, ago. So she at least knows him. She'll of course know who Starkey is, but whether she's ever talked to him is not up to me.
Her daughter is not yet 3 years old so she still has at least a couple more years left as a foal.
Also, Falcata is currently using a masterwork Silver Warhammer, however, she's only up to novice at that, she just bites her enemies most of the time :-\. Thus if you want me to change her weapon to something else that can be done.
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 08:52:00 pm
As Khenal, Friesden, and Otik entered the jungle, Psycho was busy dying from frostbite. This would give them...let's say one hour to reach him before it's too late.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 08:54:24 pm
*****************
And now I'm waiting to see a combat report that has Falcata biting something and then smashing/stabbing it with her weapon :D
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 08:58:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:02:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:03:20 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 09:04:45 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 25, 2011, 09:05:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 09:07:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:14:14 pm
"Carrot! Please, come back!"
*************
Does Carrot have his armor or a weapon? Something that might stand out in the dense jungle?
Post by: Darkening Kaos on November 25, 2011, 09:17:02 pm
Below is the embark information.Spoiler (click to show/hide)
We are in a steaming hot jungle near the equator, nearing the end of winter, I grant you, if anything Carrot would be suffering from a heatstroke, possibly deep into a jungle-fever driven delerium.
Just sayin'
Darkening Kaos, CIS, LUH.}}
Edit: fixed quote
Post by: Impending Doom on November 25, 2011, 09:19:42 pm
"Hey, yer s'posed t' be some kinda bad-ass magic user, right? Do ye know a spell wot could, I dunno, seek 'im out?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:20:18 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 09:20:24 pm
Khenal sees a glint in the dense jungle, he's unsure what to make of it.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:23:31 pm
I sit down, trying to think of a way to track Carrot.
**************
Smack dab in winter. 60 deg. F isn't unreasonable, and being soaked in that kind of temperature will give you hypothermia just easily as ten feet of snow. Maybe not frostbite, but still a bad place to be without shelter :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:27:09 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 09:33:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:35:01 pm
Glint
'Need a connection.'
Shine
'He's my friend, that's a good connection.'
Sparkle
'Is it possible to track him like that?'
Glare
"Gah, that reflection is so distracting! Wait, what?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:39:40 pm
Friesden hurries over to the glinting.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:42:53 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 09:46:24 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:49:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:52:09 pm
"Carrot!"
I check for his pulse, worried at how cold he feels.
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 09:53:11 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 09:54:03 pm
Alrighty, Falcata isn't involved in the current scene, so just a journal entry to get me started. For what it's worth, I doubt I'll be able to keep up with the roleplaying Khenal, The Master and Dsarker usually get involved in, considering my schedule, so I'll probably be just dumping out these mini essays with each fort update. I'll get involved with any RPs that would logically involve Falcata though, as time permits.
Falcata's Diary - 6th Moonstone, 98
I heard today that Captain Khenal has resigned from his position as captain of the gaurd. To say that I'm shocked and disappointed would be an understatement.
If I had known what awaited Kris and myself when we were exiled to this place, I would have deserted on the spot and taken my chances elsewhere. I can only thank all that is still good in this world that I did not personally witness many of the foul things that have taken place in this outpost, but I cannot deny that I believe many of the rumors of daemonic possession. I have more respect for Khenal than to ask him to his face if they are true, but I believe them all the same.
The treachery, attempted murders and other worldly corruption filling this place are more than I can willingly stand, and have been for some time. Through all of this, Khenal was the only reason I had any hope for peace. I found him a bit of a curiosity at first, and couldn't believe that an alicorn would lower himself to fighting alongside the common guard. In my time working with him, I've grown to respect him more than anypony else. His dependability, honesty and humility are second to none, and I would prefer to serve under no other.
I once respected Countess Charity for her efforts in turning this place into a functional society instead of the penal camp it was intended for, but after the smuggling incident I don't believe I can say that any longer. I watch my mouth and actions around her more than ever.
To hear that Khenal will be leaving his position is heartwrenching. I have no doubt that his recommendation to promote Isos was well deserved, but my resolve to continue on has all but vanished. I cannot fathom why he would do such a thing, but from what else I know of him, it must have been for a good reason. To see him associating so freely with the murderous Dr. Friesden only worries more. I would never say such a thing publicly, but I hope he has not been taken by one of the evil spirits plaguing this place. We are all doomed if even he could not prevail against them.
I fear I will get little sleep tonight. Perhaps I'll take some time practicing with my hammer some more instead. Best to do something productive at least.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 09:59:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:00:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 10:00:20 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:06:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 10:09:07 pm
My horn dims slightly and I channel my magic into levitating Carrot instead of keeping bright illumination.
"The fort sounds like a very good idea, love."
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 10:10:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:14:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 10:16:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 10:19:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 10:21:45 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:30:57 pm
As the group is leaving the jungle, a group of diomedion thieves ambush them.
((edit for derp))
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 10:38:47 pm
((like my song? I'm working on an extended version as I type.))
As the ground is leaving the jungle, a group of diomedion thieves ambush them.
Yay, I'm not the only one to derp today! :P Also, uh-oh, Diomedians. Good thing Captain Otik is here!
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 10:40:29 pm
((like my song? I'm working on an extended version as I type.))
As the group is leaving the jungle, a group of diomedion thieves ambush them.
((edit for derp))
You both derped.
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:44:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 10:52:31 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 10:53:34 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 11:07:06 pm
"You there! Yeah you, da one with da wings an' horn, gimmie yer bits! Or I'll kill yer marefriend!" sneers one of the Diomedians thieves.
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 11:17:27 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 11:21:00 pm
the thieves had kittens...what?...oh, the thieves all had knives, and wore a black outfit with the word honor scorched into them. The one who had just spoken also has tentacles coming out of it's back, while the others were missing them.
Post by: Telgin on November 25, 2011, 11:21:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 11:23:40 pm
"Dio...diomed...diomedians...Diomedians!"
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 11:31:23 pm
I set Carrot down by Friesden, placing myself between them and the Diomedians.
'Keeper, reality check please?'
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 11:31:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 11:35:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 11:35:39 pm
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 11:37:22 pm
"HAHAHAHA! Awww...are you scared?" The leader makes a snapping sound with his tentacles, "KILL'ER!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 25, 2011, 11:40:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 11:42:21 pm
I stand as tall as I can manage with my horn aglow, hoping to intimidate the diomedians into simply leaving. Captain Otik loading her crossbow certainly doesn't hurt, either.
"Leave now, Diomedians, or you may never get the chance to."
I glare steel and ice at them, daring them to even attempt to follow their leader's order.
Then Friesden goes berserk.
**************
I know, but Khenal is still worried about Cockroach messing with him. Just like I know intimidating them won't work, but Khenal tries it anyway, heh. Also, transcribing more of this for FiMFiction. Getting close to where the rping explodes and I'm unsure how to transcribe that part. Should I have it first person from Khenal's point of view, and change to other ponies when it becomes appropriate, or go for third person?
Stop with the ninjas! :P
Post by: The Master on November 25, 2011, 11:45:26 pm
The diomedians, rather than flee for their life, cheer, much to astonishment of the others.
"Thank you so much, you have no idea how annoying that bastard was! Now, give us your stuff and we'll let you live."
Post by: Khenal on November 25, 2011, 11:54:46 pm
"...Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 12:02:13 am
"You think very loudly, Khenal. Now, I know what's happening. She's an empty eyes berserker, for some reason. Now, what I want you to do is to pick up Carrot and Otik, and get us the hells away from her. She won't stop killing until she falls asleep. Once she wakes up...."
The Keeper scratches his head. "How did you deal with her memories, anyway? You never did tell."
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 12:06:24 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 12:09:37 am
'I used another mental construct, like the one I used on myself to forget about the experiments. I didn't expect it to start slipping up so soon, though. It took over a year for it to start to fail on me. Now I think about it, though, it took life-or-death stuff for me to start bypassing it.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 12:10:18 am
((and I have to go now, so....))
Friesden turns to Khenal, charges, and falls unconscious a metre away, landing at his feet.
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 12:12:53 am
As Khenal and the gang near the gates, they hear the dying shrieks of the last diomedian, then silence.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 26, 2011, 12:18:57 am
"Wha..... GET THEM TO THE HOSPITAL NOW!"-calls down Bubbles.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 12:22:04 am
"Please. If all it took for me to abandon somepony was a psychotic outburst, I'd be a very lonely pony indeed."
I lower Captain Otik (who had been in the middle of a barrage of fiery epithets, and showed no signs of slowing) so I can pick up my beloved.
"How are you feeling, by the way?"
I start walking towards the hospital.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 26, 2011, 12:23:24 am
"Khenal.... What happened?"
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 12:24:11 am
"Strange, actually. Why was I in the jungle anyway...?" Asks Psycho, confused.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 12:32:33 am
I then address Bubbles' question.
"We found Carrot and, uh... dealt with a Diomedian ambush. Everypony is alright. Well, apart from Carrot maybe not having a pulse again. And Friesden should probably be put in a cell until she wakes up, just in case."
I give the doctor an awkward smile, realizing how messed up my definition of 'alright' sounds.
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 12:44:10 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 12:45:56 am
Also, have a peek at the first bit of re-writing I had to do for the transcription. It's the part where Friesden covers the walls of her cell with Khenal's name. I couldn't play with the fonts and sizes, so had to go with a description of it. Have a spoiler.
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Also also, should I keep it present tense or past tense for when we break from journals in the transcription?
Edits are my friend!
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 12:49:53 am
"Khenal...am I dead...AGAIN?" I sigh, chuckling.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 12:52:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 01:10:07 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 01:23:08 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 26, 2011, 01:24:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 01:27:26 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 01:33:33 am
"It appears your...condition has returned, just as it used to be. Come on, lets get you warmed up."
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 01:41:32 am
((DUN DUN DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUN!))
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 01:44:04 am
*************
Next chapter up of the transcription (http://poni.0au.de/story/2892/Glitterglen)!
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 01:52:54 am
"It's so much my cozy back in my original host...Oh, what's this? He's dead...how am I..." Says the confused Cockroach.
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 01:53:41 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 26, 2011, 01:55:59 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:00:31 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 02:04:54 am
My horn flashes as I lay my sleep spell on Carrot, hoping to at least keep Cockroach immobile so I can put him somewhere safe.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 26, 2011, 02:05:50 am
((Think of the Daleks and Cybermen, no matter how many countless times they've been "destroyed for good" they always end up coming back anyway!))
(Yes, but the Daleks or the Cybermen don't show up in every episode. It seems like Cockroach has wormed his way into nearly every scene since his introduction. All I ask for is a little variety. Is that so much.)
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:14:35 am
Psycho instantly succumbs to the spell, locking Cockroach inside.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 02:21:49 am
'I hope Isos is ready. She's about to find out first hoof what her new job entails.'
************
I wonder if Falcata is down there, too?
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:25:56 am
((Actually, I was just thinking that...you'll be seeing alot more of Cockroach's friends later on. Also, thisI guess that ends the scene...Whew...Who owns Isos anyway?is the last scenewill be one of the last scenes that will have cockroach in it.))
Psycho instantly succumbs to the spell, locking Cockroach inside.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 02:32:37 am
When Khenal sealed Cockroach in the earring, it was all in Khenal's head, right? I think he might try it for real, if that's the case.
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:35:34 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:49:11 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 02:49:46 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 02:56:34 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:20:13 am
Isos never did understand Khenal's hatred for paperwork. She had just finished with the last bit for the day, and was relaxing in her new office. She might have had a harsher attitude towards the bureaucracy if she allowed it to pile up as he had, but she never did. The admiration of her statues (that cabinet one was especially nice) would have to wait, as her former Captain entered the cell block, levitating two ponies.
"Isos? Er, Captain Isos, are you in? I, uh, need your help. Can you please unlock two cells for me?"
Isos gives me a flat look as she replies.
"Khenal, you aren't Captain of the Guard any more. You aren't even part of the Guard at all! Why should I open any of these cells?"
"Um..." I shift my hooves as I try to think of a reply that doesn't sound insane. Realizing nothing truthful will fill that requirement, I plow on anyway.
"Carrot here is possessed again, but I have an idea on how to help him. Friesden went berserk on some Diomedians and then passed out. I'm pretty sure she'll be fine when she wakes up, but I'd like her in a cell if not."
"And how do I know you aren't possessed, Khenal? Charity told me why she accepted your resignation, so why should I trust you?"
"Well, you can see Carrot breathing, right? He doesn't have a pulse, though. I...should really give you my book to read, it has a lot of information on what's been going on that I'm not sure you know. Just check his pulse. If his heart is still beating, I guess I'm crazy again and would really appreciate a cell for myself."
"You're crazy either way, but I'll humor you." She looks annoyed as she checks Carrot's pulse. She shifts to worried when she doesn't find it, and then to confused as she sees Carrot still breathing.
"What kind of job did you give me, Khenal?! Fine, I'll unlock two cells for you. But I expect that book of yours by morning!"
I sigh with relief as Isos unlocks the cells for me, then float Friesden into one and lay her gently on the bed as I follow Carrot into the other.
'Alright, Cockroach. The last time I bound you in Carrot's earring was all in my head, but this time it will be for real.'
My horn glows as I slowly gather the energy needed to bind Cockroach. With any luck, he'll never bother anypony again.
*********************
There we go. The Master can do the actual end of Cockroach when he gets the chance, assuming this actually is the end of him.
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:22:18 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:30:57 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 03:31:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:34:12 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:34:47 am
Edited because nobody has to line up for anything.
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:36:16 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 03:37:50 am
"NO! NO! NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! KHENAL, YOU CAN'T DO THIS, THINK OF ALL THE FUN WE HAD! RAAAAAAH, I'LL KILL ALL OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!" Screams cockroach in agony.
The room shakes and one of the cells nearby explodes into flying sharps of materials. Part of the ceiling caves in and nearly hits Khenal in the head. Then the tremers subside and with a brilliant flash of light, Cockroach was nothing more than a silently screaming face in an adamantine earring.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:46:13 am
***************
Had to go and
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:48:44 am
**************
Friesden comes to, and slowly gets up.
"Khenal? Khenal? Where are you, my love?"
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 03:53:14 am
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 03:59:31 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:01:08 am
"I'm...over here...my light."
I struggle to regain my hooves, but don't quite manage it, falling to my side in my struggles.
"Captain...some help, please?"
Isos unlocks the doors, more out of habit than conscious thought.
*************
G'nite! Even though we all know you'll be back in a few min! :P
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 26, 2011, 04:01:09 am
"Cockroach, in fealty to the God-Princess, our undying lady, and by the grace of the Canterlot Throne, in the name of Glitterglen and the Watch, I call thee diabolis, and in the testimony of thy crimes, I submit this carta. May principial justice account in all balance. The Princess protects."
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:05:03 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:15:39 am
"What happened?! That's what I want to know, Khenal!"
"Well..."
I don't get a chance to explain before falling unconscious from the exertion of casting the binding.
Isos grumbles darkly as she leads Friesden from her cell and begins to try to get under Khenal to carry him.
"Well, are you going to help me? He's not going to wake up for a while, I'd bet. I'll escort you two home. I want that book, and some answers!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:17:39 am
Friesden gets under Khenal, and straining, lifts him up. She slowly starts the walk to their room.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:22:33 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:24:22 am
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:29:22 am
"As he'd say, 'Friends can share the load.' Heh, he always was a bit sappy. And I'm escorting you home whether you like it or not. I'm the Captain of the Guard. Besides, I really do need to get that book he mentioned. I'm starting to wonder just what has been dropped on me with this promotion."
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:34:50 am
"I don't know what book he meant, though. I'm sorry."
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:40:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:43:37 am
Friesden continues to make her way home.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:53:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:57:45 am
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 26, 2011, 11:29:37 am
Armok, help me, I've gone insane.
Post by: Telgin on November 26, 2011, 02:16:03 pm
I wonder if Falcata is down there, too?
Presumably she would have been somewhere practicing with her hammer to try and suck less at it. I need to go back and find the images showing the layout of the fort, no idea if the barracks are near the jail or not.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 02:30:19 pm
If anypony wants/needs to interact with Khenal, I'll be on for another hour-and-a-half to two hours. Afterwords, I'll be gone for a while for gaming with friends :D
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:26:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:34:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:35:34 pm
As dawn breaks on the fortress, Khenal wakes, and sees Friesden at the foot of his bed, an anxious look upon her face.
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:38:35 pm
"Are you alright, my love?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:40:05 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:47:38 pm
"A lot. What is the last thing you remember?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:50:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 03:54:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 03:56:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:12:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:12:34 pm
I reach out to embrace Friesden, knowing this next part will be hard for me to tell her, and likely harder for her to hear.
"You still have all the knowledge you gained, good and ill, but don't know how to access it. In times of danger, however, the subconscious tends to react. You...went berserk on the diomedians, then passed out mid-charge at...at Captain Otik and Carrot."
My omission hangs obvious as I pause.
"I brought you down to the cells, just in case you were going to go berserk when you awoke. I was pretty sure you'd be fine, but I had to be sure."
Tears start flowing as I continue.
"I'm sorry, Friesden! I promised to seal your memories like you asked, but I'm not strong enough! I don't know how long the construct will last, but you'll start remembering your past eventually. It may be in pieces or all at once, but they'll return. I'm sorry!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:15:48 pm
"Khenal I must say again that you are a loud thinker. Where is Friesden, that your thoughts are shouting so?"
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:23:45 pm
**************
I'll be taking off soon, got about 10min or so left :-\
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 04:24:43 pm
((How long till you'll be back?))
Post by: Khenal on November 26, 2011, 04:29:37 pm
****************
And with that I need to get going :( I'll not be back for 8 hours, maybe even more.
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 04:36:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 04:40:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 05:03:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 05:14:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 26, 2011, 05:15:08 pm
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 05:33:30 pm
Post by: The Master on November 26, 2011, 11:55:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 12:00:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 12:03:36 am
EDIT: nope, still stuck, i'll try a different browser...
EDIT2: yep, that was the issue, on chrome it spins fine.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 12:17:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 12:18:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 12:20:15 am
Click the download, save as, then switch the file format from .htm to all files, and append .mp3 to the end.StrongBeard should quote this in the op.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 01:19:03 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 27, 2011, 01:23:24 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 01:26:04 am
And with that I need to get going :( I'll not be back for 8 hours, maybe even more.grrr.
EDIT: grrr has evolved into GRRRRRRRRRRR!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 27, 2011, 01:43:38 am
Click the download, save as, then switch the file format from .htm to all files, and append .mp3 to the end.StrongBeard should quote this in the op.
And it is done.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 02:00:28 am
Well no, that was a lie. A typical day in Glitterglen involves insanity, daemonic posession, civil unrest, and the like, while remarkably this day has passed without incident.
Until now.
As things finally begin to wind down for the night, anypony who happened to be near the barracks would be startled by a loud shriek.
Let's save this scene for later...
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:02:36 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 02:06:16 am
Actually, we should still wait for khenal, we would want to cause a tear in the time-space-continuum!
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 02:07:39 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 02:09:36 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 02:14:46 am
I calm down a bit at Keeper's reprimand, though my eyes still hold tears.
'I know what went wrong, Keeper! The spell simply wasn't designed with this kind of situation in mind! And I'm not giving up. I just...it's going to be so painful for her to remember, and I don't want her to be in pain like that.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:22:17 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 02:25:20 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 02:30:26 am
"Friesden, can I check on how the spell is doing?"
********************
I hate to hold up everyone's roleplaying like this, sorry everyone :-[
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:33:02 am
"As you wish."
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 02:36:57 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 02:40:35 am
***********
Not the entire world! Where am I going to put my stuff now?
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 02:43:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:47:18 am
The second mark is not so. It appears to be intersecting another side of the map and the river, and has been frenzily drawn on, almost hacking through the map.
The sound of rushing water can be heard.
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 02:52:35 am
I examine the map, trying to get a feel for the locations of the two marks along the river. Once satisfied, I look for the exit and the river beyond.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:59:04 am
It opens to a tremendous stone wall, larger than could be thought possible. As Khenal wanders out, he can see over both sides. The first, of course, is to the river. With the end walled up, it has risen to very unsafe levels - he can feel the spray as the water laps against the wall. The water isn't clear, but seems to be tremendously filthy. On the other side lies a dead valley floor, and the decay is exposed to see. Pony skeletons are numerous, as with other dead things.
Khenal can remember the map, and he knows that this should be where the first mark was made.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 03:02:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:03:00 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:10:32 am
Pondering the scenery, I take off for the jagged mark the map indicated.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:15:38 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:18:13 am
'Hello? Anypony home?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:22:57 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:25:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:27:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:32:46 am
I walk over to the construct and try to get it's attention.
'Excuse me, can I ask you a few questions?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:34:11 am
"Progenitor! Thy dam is constructed! What is thy next task?"
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 03:41:23 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:42:02 am
I stand confused for a moment, not expecting the sudden attention. I quickly shake myself out of it, remembering why I'm here in the first place.
'Why are you digging down here?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:48:23 am
"Thy servant begs your forgiveness, Progenitor! But we had built the dam, and we discovered that the water was too high! We had failed thou, and we decided, in secret, to let a small amount leak, that thy dam not be breached by the force! We beg of thee to spare thy servant for his iniquity!"
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 03:50:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:52:09 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 03:56:37 am
*********************
I originally thought the dam itself was my construct, and the jagged mark to be something from Friesden's own mind, but I like the weirdness of actually having to talk to the construct. I also enjoy Khenal's discomfort at the construct's reactions, heh.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 03:58:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 04:03:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:05:45 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 04:13:51 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:15:32 am
I back a few steps from the construct, uncomfortable with the entire situation. Then, I get an idea.
'There is no need for mercy, oh diligent construct! I knew this task was great when I gave it to you, and you have done admirablely in adapting to unnexpected setbacks. Therefore, I have a new task for you. This river is too mighty to simply dam, it must be allowed to flow under control. Design a way to filter the waters and begin to tend the land. Even the worst of river grime can be used to produce fertile fields and succulent fruit. Follow the land, let her natural beauty blossom and grow. Nurture this land and help her grow into her full potential.'
'Her past is troubled, oh construct, but she must find some way to deal with it and herself. Do your best to help her come to terms with herself. Be careful and diligent, rush nothing. This is your charge, my construct, and I know you will not fail it.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:17:57 am
The construct stands up and bawls out a few orders. The unicorns stand and hurry their way out to the wall, picks in hoof.
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:23:59 am
I do my best to exit quietly and quickly, not wanting to fuel any zealous mistakes.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:25:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:30:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:36:17 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:40:52 am
'Friesden?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:44:42 am
From within, you can hear the turning of many locks, gears, and other barring mechanisms. Slowly but surely, the door begins to open.
Inside is Friesden. The room itself is covered in pictures. All of what appears to be one pony, in differing poses. If anything, the proper word for this could be a shrine.
The pony appears to be coloured green.
Before Khenal can fully see the pictures, Friesden is running at him.
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:49:32 am
***************
I almost went with "NotthefaceAAAAHHHH!", but that's not Khenal :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:51:20 am
"Khenal," she somehow manages to say between kisses, "why are you here?"
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:55:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:56:55 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 04:58:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:00:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:01:04 am
Old pony: "Yeaa...dats dem...DOSE TOOO BOWZOOS DAT WON'T GIT OFF MEH LAAWN!"
Robocorn: Shoots self
Old pony: "DAM' KEEDS AND DER MIN' CONTROOL MACHEEEEEEEENNSSSHRHHSFGSH"
I don't know...i'm getting antsy and it's 5:01 in the morning!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:04:40 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 05:09:11 am
'Where did I find the luck to be able to know you?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:10:15 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:11:26 am
((http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=V2P11pU3yo0#t=117s warning, SMOSH!))((I reiterate. you're killing me with this loveydovywuvy...stuff...))
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:13:23 am
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 05:15:16 am
And I'm curious, what would Keeper have done? Or will you be saving that particular maybe-disaster for later?
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:17:40 am
EDIT: god, I fell asleep while typing that, good night everypony!
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 27, 2011, 05:20:30 am
"Uh...What the heck is going on? I was just in my office doing poison antidote testing, when I fell down here..."
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:22:05 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:22:48 am
*Another bright light appears and Bubbles falls in, right in the middle of the two.*
"Uh...What the heck is going on? I was just in my office doing poison antidote testing, when I fell down here..."
Going to find it hard to fall right in the middle of the two.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 27, 2011, 05:24:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:25:31 am
I'm imagining that I fall on your heads and you break away,
I was thinking more of the whole 'it's in Friesden's mind' type of thing.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:26:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:26:58 am
(([sarcasm]I love how you always break the fourth wall, ansontan [/sarcasm] going to bed, NOW.))
AND STAY THERE.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 27, 2011, 05:28:33 am
((I gotz to goh!))
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 05:29:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:31:01 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:32:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:33:30 am
I feel like a parent, sometimes.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:40:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:41:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:49:57 am
Ok let's stop this before I die of a heart attack from lack of sleep.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:54:22 am
Post by: Rentorian on November 27, 2011, 09:02:09 am
Black Friday, both prep and actual damn day: Done
Thanksgiving with family: Done
Thanksgiving with Dad's side of family: Done
Catch up on Glitterglen: ..... Holy hell.... This may take a while.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 12:33:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 02:52:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 04:02:18 pm
Another day ends in and another sun sets over the fortress of Glitterglen. The last bird sings his lone song, as the ponies of the fortress head below, seeking refuge from the night. Thus ends another typical day in Glitterglen.
Well no, that was a lie. A typical day in Glitterglen involves insanity, daemonic posession, civil unrest, and the like, while remarkably this day has passed without incident.
Until now.
As things finally begin to wind down for the night, anypony who happened to be near the barracks would be startled by a loud shriek.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 04:12:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:12:58 pm
Heh, speaking of: bed sounds good about now. I'll likely be missing for most of tomorrow as well. This time I won't be silly and start anything and keep others from their thing. I wanna know what happened in the barracks. G'nite!
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 04:31:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 04:56:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:02:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:05:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:14:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 05:45:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:46:38 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:47:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 05:52:28 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 05:53:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 05:55:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 06:10:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:13:16 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 06:14:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:15:18 pm
I TRUSTED YOU. BUT YOU, YOU FOOL. YOU DIDN'T TRUST ME, AND HAVE PROVEN YOURSELF UNTRUSTWORTHY.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:16:16 pm
She is here. Damn you and your weakness!
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 06:17:02 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:21:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:30:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 06:33:32 pm
His face hardens into a mask of anger.
"No... no, I won't let you. She's happy now, I won't let you tear them apart!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:40:29 pm
"Who...Starkey, are you okay?"
Friesden rushes to Starkey.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 06:43:02 pm
Post by: thechosenone456 on November 27, 2011, 06:46:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 06:46:54 pm
"Starkey? Are you okay? What's wrong? Who are you talking to?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:02:36 pm
"W-Who... Friesden?"
Friesden finds herself wrapped in a bone-crushing hug. Starkey buries his face in her mane, sobbing like a little foal.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:04:53 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:14:40 pm
He is obviously lying.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:15:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:23:59 pm
'No. Before she fell for him,' he reminds himself.
Emotions that strong could surely find a chink in her mental armor. He is unsure how much to tell her.
"It isn't... you wouldn't remember... "
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:27:37 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:34:26 pm
"He... I don't know what you called him. I know him as Schmoe. He is a daemon, one I thought I had locked away."
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:39:11 pm
"I AM ASSUMING DIRECT CONTROL."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:45:07 pm
'Oh, no... oh Sisters, blease let it be my imagination...'
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:49:50 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:53:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:56:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 07:57:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 07:58:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:02:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:05:27 pm
"You... are the mental construct Khenal created to lock away Friesden's memories? Why are you controlling her now?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:09:06 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:14:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:16:14 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:22:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:23:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:25:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:28:26 pm
Friesden begins to slowly walk back to her room.
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 08:36:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:38:30 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:43:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 08:53:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 08:58:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:03:02 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 09:08:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:09:55 pm
:P
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 09:11:52 pm
Ooooooh...
Then yes, I suppose, something along those lines. :D
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:18:23 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 09:20:18 pm
Besides that Starkey's walking out with Otik?
... that he had gotten up and they were going for a walk? :-[
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 09:21:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:22:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 09:24:01 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 09:26:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:32:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 09:33:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 09:35:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:38:27 pm
Anyway, of all the possible things, this is the WORST POSSIBLE THING!
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 09:49:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:53:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 09:55:51 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:05:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:07:26 pm
********************
Partially for the direct control, partially for it's worship of him, and partially out of fear that it's influencing Friesden's emotions.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 10:09:44 pm
"Khenal, my love, are you okay?"
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:15:39 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:17:50 pm
"...FOR THE LAST BUCKING TIME, I'M FINE NOW! IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE, AT ALL??!?!? ...Anyone...? Why the hay do I get myself into these messes...?"
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:18:41 pm
I blearily open an eye, then give Friesden a tired smile.
"Hello, love. I guess I was having a nightmare. Did I wake you?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 10:21:24 pm
"No...I was with Starkey."
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:22:52 pm
"It's not f-fair...why d-do I always hav-v-ve to be the puppe-e-et...? Why didn't I j-just freeze to death, and stay d-d-dead?!" he moans.
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:29:51 pm
"Starkey? Huh. How's he doing?"
Meanwhile, in Isos' Chambers
"Ugh, I thought anything would be better than his shouting. I was wrong."
Isos paces by her bed, trying to figure out what to do about the pony sobbing in one of her cells. She eventually stops and heads to her door, apparently having made a decision.
"Captain Carrot? Are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 10:30:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 27, 2011, 10:30:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 10:33:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:33:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:42:05 pm
Too tired to catch Friesden's uncertainty, I lay back down.
In the cell block
"I just wanted to check on you, see if you're alright. I'll let you out in the morning. As far as I can tell, you aren't being charged with anything. So cheer up, this'll hardly even be mentioned in the paperwork, let alone your record."
**************************
Isos is a lot more by-the-book than Khenal is :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 10:43:04 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:44:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:48:59 pm
"Hmm, how long have you been in this cell, again?"
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:50:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 10:56:58 pm
"Well then, Captain Carrot, I need to apologize to you. I lost track of time, and I could have sworn I asked one of the guards to release you this morning. 24 hours is the limit for holding a pony without charge. Additionally, somepony forgot to get a new barrel of food so we could give you your meals. I'll get the keys and let you out in just a moment. Again, I'm sorry about this."
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 10:58:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 11:02:24 pm
"I don't think that's physically possible, and I know it's not legal. Besides, where would I even get a squeegee at this hour? Regardless..."
She unlocks the cell.
"You are free to go."
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:06:26 pm
"Where the buck is Khenal? Aw, the hay with it...i'm going to bed... Oh, could you see if you could execute my wife for cheating on me...? that would make my day..." Says Carrot.
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 11:11:34 pm
*************
Very by-the-book :P
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 11:13:32 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:14:00 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:18:26 pm
The sun begins to rise, and Carrot is in his usual spot on the tower, enjoying the warm rays of light.
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 11:20:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 11:27:19 pm
**********
Sunrise? Not without being forced awake :P
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:28:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 11:45:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 27, 2011, 11:50:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:53:22 pm
"LA LA LAAHHH!"
Post by: Dsarker on November 27, 2011, 11:56:13 pm
Post by: The Master on November 27, 2011, 11:58:15 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 12:05:02 am
My horn barely flickers as Carrot feels the merest whisper of force brush at his mane.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 12:06:57 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 12:07:30 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 12:18:24 am
"Actually, no. What day is it?"
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 12:22:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 12:26:32 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 12:28:09 am
"Oh, Happy Birthday. Why are you yelling?"
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 12:32:01 am
This is what the narrator wanted to happen, but alas, he was killed by a hobo.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 12:37:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 12:38:33 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 12:45:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 12:54:11 am
My mind finally finishes processing what Friesden said about Starkey.
"Uh, what does it mean?
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 12:59:05 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 01:07:54 am
I smile at the pony I love, nuzzling her before getting out of bed.
"Are you going to go back to sleep? I'm going to go try and find Carrot to give him his gift."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 01:10:04 am
The captain and lieutenant remain snuggled contentedly together through Carrot's confection-fueled rampage - learning to sleep through late night sparring sessions and shift changes will do that to you.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 01:13:50 am
"No...I think I'll get up now too." She yawns. "Not going to get much more sleep anyway."
She gets up and winces. "What...I can't remember...what..." Her eyes widen. "I can...I can remember what birthdays are. What..."
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 01:14:07 am
Meanwhile in a different plane of existence...
"...DAMN IT GHAST, HOW DO YOU ALWAYS WIN AT CHESS?!" Cries Drakle, a green mist daemon.
"Heh, I guess-...What in hell...?" suddenly, there's a flash of light, and Ghast is now in a strange colorful world...full of PONIES?!
"AH! WHERE'RE MY DAMN LEGS?! THE...I'M A HORSE?!?!?! CURSE YOU ARMOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Screams Psycho.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 01:23:37 am
**************
I doubt anything short of catching Friesden and Starkey doing something inappropriate would make Khenal freak out. He's actually been worried that she hasn't tried to get to know anypony else since he sealed her memories.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 01:28:27 am
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 01:29:52 am
Falcata finishes her feeble attempts to learn to swing her hammer any better and returns it to its sling. Swinging the heavy instrument about telekinetically was just as draining as she remembered. She had never spent much time practicing her magic, and the weapon just weighed too much. She wipes some sweat from her brow and plods out of the barracks back toward her quarters.
Her entire body aches at the expenditure of magic, and right now she's too tired to care much about the noisy outbursts echoing down the halls. She was pretty sure that the voice belonged to Carrot, and that was becoming a bit routine. If she was needed, somepony would come get her. The incidents had worked themselves out without her involvement so far.
Maybe tomorrow she would try swinging the hammer around with her mouth... no, that would just give her a sore neck, and that would take a lot longer to recover from than burning up some magic. Right now, she was just going to catch what sleep she could.
((Incidentally, are the guards' quarters near the barracks, or somewhere else entirely? I'm always lazy about this and just let the guards and soldiers sleep with the civilians on another z-level))
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 01:39:14 am
************
Writer's block....setting in...nnnnooooooo
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 01:41:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 01:47:27 am
I hold open the door for Friesden, hoping to talk as we head towards the carpentry shop where Carrot's present awaits.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 01:58:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 02:01:54 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 02:14:47 am
I groan as I say this:
"Tell it that your directions are the Progenitor's Will. And, um...try not to let it's opinion of me freak you out. I know I had a hard time with it."
*********************
New daemon thing, and Khenal is low on magic and without weapons or armor? This is going to get interesting.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 02:16:59 am
*****************
"The Progenitor's Will?" She giggles a bit as she says this, and the colour returns to her face. "What, are you the Progenitor?"
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 02:21:03 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 02:24:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 02:27:14 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 02:38:21 am
"Now then, where did I put his gift?"
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 02:49:27 am
Khenal finds the gift with a knife sticking out of it, being used as a door stop.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 02:52:22 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 02:58:49 am
"Who would stab a knife into the chest I made for Carrot?"
*****************
What, you didn't think Khenal actually forgot the birthday of one of his friends, did you? And you've gone and put a knife mark in the lid of your new chest :P
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:01:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 03:10:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 03:17:02 am
"Well, at least the gouge wasn't hard to repair. Lets see if we can find Carrot, I think he's taken to enjoying the view from the tower recently."
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 03:22:22 am
Friesden follows Khenal up to the tower.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:25:36 am
"URRRGGG!! Ah, what?" Carrot groans, confused.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 03:28:16 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:29:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 03:31:32 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 03:34:40 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:38:03 am
He smiles seemingly genuinely, then punches her so hard that she sees stars. Then he speaks.
"Heh, name's Ghast. Pleas'd to mak' your acquaintance."
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 03:46:02 am
I charge Carrot, attempting to shoulder-check him away from Friesden.
************
Also: punch? Without a fist? :P Maybe simply strike her?
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 03:48:51 am
There's a sound that comes before a rockslide. Once you've heard it once, you'll never forget it. It's a small sound, and builds up into the crescendo of the landslide. It starts with the little sounds of pebbles rattling.
Drip.
It doesn't come that way with all things. Artificial objects are usually built without this handy feature inside. They rely on alarms, on bells and whistles to alert the user of danger.
Drip.
In this case, however, the sound was that of a single drop of water, falling.
Drip.
"ALL CREW TO THE EMERGENCY RELEASE VALVE, IN THE PROGENITOR'S NAME!" bellowed the construct. Unicorns were running frantically over the wall, but at the sound of the bellowed order, they organised themselves and quickmarched over to the cave. Their picks were ready, and they commenced the release. The construct was horrified. The Progenitor Himself had given him a task, and he would have to fail it. The water was at the level of the dam, and the pressure was building. Even the tiniest bit more pressure would destroy the dam and undo all the work. The only chance would be to leak out some of the water. This had been done before, and worked...the construct had only not predicted they would need to do it again so suddenly. He looked desperately out at the wall, at the dripping from there, and prayed that the Progenitor would speed their work.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:50:53 am
Carrot just dodges away like it was nothing, and then says,
"Hah! this is so much fun after being locked away playing chess for ten-thousand years! Now, down to buisness. I want to kill ya, but I'll assume you blokes want to live, dig? How's'bout this? I kill yer marefriend, then I kill you, that way ya suffer longer! Got it? GOOD!" and with that, he bites onto friesden and leaps off the tower.
((AND NO, THIS TIME IT'S REAL. be resourceful.))
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 03:57:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 03:59:52 am
"I'VE BEEN DEAD TOO LONG TO BE THWARTED SO SOON BY A FLYING DWARVEN DOG!" Spits Ghast. He spins in the midair, hurling the three of them at the tower's base.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:03:54 am
It started with a whine. The construct knew the sound. Knew what it meant. The dam was under unbelievable strain.
"FASTER, PROGENITOR DAMN YOU! FASTER!" The unicorns continued swinging wildly, and it was done. The water flooded through, and washed away two of the unicorns, but it was done.
The construct let out a sigh of relief.
Friesden woke up and turned to her carrier.
She said nothing as she kicked him. Kicked him, again and again and again and again. If you had been watching and knew nothing of the way a pegasus works, you would laugh at what she was doing.
But if you know, you would be clapping. With each strike, she hit one of the pressure points around the wings. Each one of them controlling the fall. With one last swift strike, Carrot's wings no longer responded.
Her eyes were the most ghastly part of it all. They weren't -her- eyes. They spoke of death. Of ruin. Of the end of all things. Of the lost immortality of the world before. Of the last days of the last age of the universe. Of pure entropy made manifest. And worse, they held the onlooker with a death grip, no pun intended.
With a quick flap of her wings, she took the pair to the wall of the fort.
Wham.
Wham.
Wham.
Wham.
Wham.
With each slam of the pair against the wall, Carrot's grip weakened.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:07:03 am
"AHHAHAAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHA..........." Khenal hears as he falls to his death, or rather to his splatter.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:08:38 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:13:57 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:15:32 am
As throughout the entire battle, there is not even a flicker of emotion in her eyes as she flies straight at him.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 04:17:47 am
"Friesden! Calm down!"
I then see her eyes.
"Uh-oh."
I begin to channel what magic I have to the construct, hoping to help him keep Friesden sane.
**************
A dash of denial and a sprinkle of desensitization of Carrot dying ;)
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:20:47 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:24:52 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 04:25:54 am
"Come on, Friesden. Come back to me, please..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 04:28:40 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:31:10 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 04:32:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:32:41 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:36:01 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 04:37:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:38:42 am
He wouldn't use it, like he wouldn't the spear, but you could still give it to him.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 04:39:05 am
'Holy Ingest!'
"Friesden! It's me, Khenal! Please, come back!"
*****************
Ya, Khenal is not going to hurt Friesden. Even at the expense of himself, he'll never intentionally hurt her.
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 04:39:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:42:11 am
********
Friesden's movements slow as the exertion of the combat takes its toll.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:47:31 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 04:48:52 am
"Friesden! Please, I don't know how much longer I can last. You need to come back! Please!"
One of her strikes finally lands true, sending me flying and breaking at least one rib.
*************
Na, C4 wouldn't make us explode. You can hit that stuff with a hammer and it won't go off.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:50:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:52:26 am
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 04:56:34 am
"Come on, Carrot. Get up. I don't think I can carry Friesden like this."
"...Carrot?"
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:57:57 am
((For the record, Friesden did murder Carrot.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:06:01 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:07:05 am
Assisted suicide, at least.((I agree.)) wait, what am I doing talking out of character now? I DON'T HAVE ONE ANYMORE!
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:08:13 am
I finally cease channeling extra magic to the construct, instead needing to gather up Friesden and what's left of Carrot. I lay Friesden across my back, heedless of my injuries, and trudge towards the carpentry shop. Once there, I open the large chest I had made and place Carrot's remains inside it, tears flowing.
"I...I'm sorry, Carrot. I made this chest for your birthday, hoping you'd like it. I never expected it was a coffin, instead."
"Happy Birthday..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 05:10:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:13:29 am
Post by: DVNO on November 28, 2011, 05:15:07 am
In an unfamiliar room filled with Black darkness, cut by a narrow sliver of lamp light, all that is visible is an unconscious dark blue pony with a wild unkempt blue mane and a dagger for a cutie mark tied down to a wood chair. he's clearly been badly beaten, there are deep cuts and bruises all over his naked body. his six pack abs glisten intensely, as if Crisco has been liberally applied to them.
" ... ugh... did Charity kill me?" Couth slurred as he entered a half consciousness.
He looks around the pitch black, hoping to see his gods Othud Cherishfair or Thebil Mindfulsongs, but no, no. In his typical luck, he sees a tentacle pony he never wanted to see again. he has a gray coat, has a well groomed short raven black mane as per usual with Diomidians but this was no typical grunt. this particular Diomidian likes to play therapist and wore glasses and held a clipboard to prove it. his name is Alister, and if he's here, I am far away from my little bed back at the fortress.
"Oh Couth, I am so glad we found you. how have you been? you haven't forgotten your dealings with us, have you?" Alister says with a friendly grin.
Couth spits a dark black piece of bile at him as a response.
"mm-hm" Alister wipes his glasses of the unpleasantness. "you're still charming you, I see. or are you? we have gotten reports of Daemons running rampant in Glitterglen." he nods at his clipboard " can you answer a few questions? to prove you're you?"
"and if I don't feel up to answering your questions? what if feel more like breaking every bone in your body, Alister?" Couth retorted, fully awake.
"Ha, just try it, see what happens!" Alister playfully taps Couth on the cheek with his tentacle. " you'd be dead before you could even touch me. you are not a citizen to our glorious Domidian empire. you have no rights. I can do whatever I want to you, remember that next time you run your mouth."
"ahem" Alister composes himself and gets professional. "now, let's start at the beginning. describe your childhood please."
"really?"
"Humor me. it'll keep you alive."
*sigh* "Fine. Rough. It was rough. I had no parents, no family. only pony who cared for me was my sister Willow and I cared for her. we were just two orphans running free in the capital city slums. we did anything we could to survive.. anything. we tried alot of things to make money, but stealing ale from breweries and hawking it to the masses at a cheaper price did the trick best."
"mhm, good. and what happened to Willow?" Alister proceeded.
"Willow... got smart, got cold and cutthroat. she realized that if I was gone she could double her money. we were doing our usual routine of breaking and entering, but she insisted on carrying my load, lied to me. she trapped me in the basement, and the brewer found me. instead of having the guards behead me the brewer put me to work. it was hard work, there was no pay, but he fed me so that was something. this went on for about eight years."
* Alister scribbles something down on the clipboard*
"what are you writing down? why am I telling you my life story?" Couth demanded.
"I'm comparing your story with the one we beat out of you a year ago, before we planted you into Glitterglen. your passing with flying colors. please continue. why did you leave the capital?"
" well after my years of philanthropy the king personally gave me a key to the city and freed me from my servitude." Couth said with a dry sarcasm.
*Alister whips Couth across the face with a tentacle, drawing blood.* "Be serious!"
"I bucked up! they drove me out with pitchforks." Couth admitted angrily.
"I moved to a nice little village with no name. started an inn. it was nice and quiet and nopony bothered me. then you pillaged it. you kidnapped me. you tortured me. you gave me an ultimatum. and shuffled me into a line of immigrants. you know the rest."
"yes, our contract was steal the items we required, you and every pony in glorified ratthole "Glitterglen" gets to live, correct?"
"yeah, something like that."
"well, why didn't you hold up your side of the bargain, Couth?"
" why? you bastards got greedy! I had a good system, and you wrecked it when you asked for those amulets made of banned metal. ten of my cohorts are in jail and three good friends are dead because of you. then things got personal, things got out of my hooves."
Alister gave out a long sigh.
"you know, my peers think I'm crazy, they think I should kill you and we go ahead and raze your fortress, but I stuck my neck out to give you another chance. it's our understanding there is an alicorn foal-"
"No."
"there is an alicorn foal in your fortress. give her to us and we-"
"I won't do it. can't do it."
"Couth? it's your only way out of this and you know it."
"why? why do you want her?"
Hmmm, whats the most clinical, dispassionate way to put this? for Breeding, Couth."
"oh gods, you sick bastards."
"you know what we want, and you know the price of failure. two weeks, Couth. two weeks. nighty-night."
Alister puts a rag over Couth's mouth and he fades away to la la land.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:16:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:20:53 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 05:28:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:29:47 am
I'm kind of hoping Strongbeard comes in, sees what we've done, goes to his save file, deletes the world, and locks the thread. All without saying a thing.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:30:21 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:32:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:32:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:33:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:34:37 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:38:05 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 05:38:37 am
Hello folks! Now it's my turn to narrate this amazing tale. At least until I have to go. Then that slimy, hair brained fool will continue for me. Anyways...
And thus, Carrot was buried by his great friend Khenal. How unfortunate, to have Friesden slam him into the ground like that. How unladylike.
((Lemme get the narrator spot when i'm on. It's kinda irritating, not having anything to do when you're all RPing this thread to hell.))
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:39:37 am
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 05:40:50 am
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 03:06:56 pm
YOU'RE LUCKY, YA WEST COAST HOOLIGAN! Also, I think renaming would be the best, it saves SO much trouble. TIME TO SLEEP FOR 19 MINUTES!
But did Carrot have any friends? Might be Fun to see what damage that caused if he does get smashed.
Ah well, so much for things settling down. You've been trying to get Carrot killed for what, 50 pages now? Somehow I doubt it's going to get much more sane now that you finally got your wish. Unless that was the whole point, of course.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 04:32:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 04:55:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:08:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:10:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:18:09 pm
I trudge towards the hospital, carrying Friesden on my back and Carrot's remains with my magic.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:22:51 pm
"Khenal, what the hell happened? You've got a lot of pain running through here."
Post by: DVNO on November 28, 2011, 05:27:16 pm
"if one more freaking thing goes wrong tonight i'm going to-"
Couth hears like, like a crunchy potato chip bag full of chips thrown into an chainlink fence inches away from him and viscous red blood is sprays directly into his eyeballs.
WHAT THE BUCK! Couth yells in blind fury.
(( clicky for refrence ))
http://pastebin.com/FpAEscPG (http://pastebin.com/FpAEscPG)
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:34:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:42:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 05:50:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 05:54:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 06:08:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 06:12:29 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 06:25:38 pm
**********
Cut to the jail? Unless DVNO has something to add, I think this scene is about done?
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 06:28:00 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 28, 2011, 06:31:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 06:35:39 pm
Good job, guys.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 06:40:05 pm
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 06:40:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 06:47:36 pm
"She killed Carrot and you're still trying to 'save' her? Just give her over to be executed and be done with it!"
Khenal exits the cell and locks it shut.
"Khenal, pay attention to me, damn you! What the bloody hell do you think you're playing at? Khenal? Khenal!"
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 07:01:08 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 07:06:28 pm
I'm going to rename the marks pegasus Tecak and he will be taking over, as captain of Psycho's squad. In other words, he was one of the Pegasi Charity trusted to be part of her personal Skyguard, which she separated from Otik. He had a father named Enog when he moved here but the father died in a construction accident. [the one that broke Khenal's old office's roof a while back. Remember?] But has no other relationships.
I'll wright up Charity's Journal entry for all this later, but first I need to know. How much is she being told. Obviously she'll know that Carrot is dead, and she'll find out that Friesden did it, from Isos if from no one else. But will anyone [Khenal] explain the extenuating circumstances to her?)
(Also, someone asked about sleeping arrangements for the militia. Starkey and Otik have nice rooms by the barracks and Psycho
(Will put Crest_Fire's picture below.)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Crest_Fire.png)
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 07:08:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 07:15:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 07:17:31 pm
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 07:23:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 07:26:55 pm
"Please be alright."
I finish the link, and once again enter Friesden's mindscape.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 07:28:45 pm
Friesden lives, and Friesden dies.
Which to pick?))
The mindscape is just as Khenal remembers it, and the Keeper who follows him looks around. "Are there any maps? Do you remember this place?"
One difference is that the room which Friesden had been in last time is leaking water under the door.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 07:39:01 pm
I try to open the door, expecting to have to deal with water once it opens.
'You might want to hold your breath and hang on to something.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 07:40:57 pm
As the door swings open, a torrent of water bursts forth from the room. It pushes strongly, but it passes in a second. In the middle of the room, Friesden is crying, and saying something about the wet.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 07:46:14 pm
'Friesden! Are you alright?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 07:58:52 pm
"Ruined," she says. "They're all ruined. They're all ruined. All of them."
Behind the two, the Keeper has halted. A look of madness is in his eyes.
"You bastard, Khenal. You know nothing of the damage you have caused here. I will make you suffer for that. Painfully suffer. I'll kill you. I'll kill you!"
As he rants, the construct emerges from the door to the dam.
"THE TAINT OF THE WATER HAS BEEN DETECTED IN THE PROGENITOR'S NAME. CLEANSING FOR THE GLORY OF THE GREAT PROGENITOR." He seizes the Keeper, and wrings him out. As he does so, a puddle of water forms. The construct puts his hand into the water, and it boils away.
The Keeper is placed down, and his eyes have returned.
"Oh gods, what did I say? What happened?"
Friesden remains unaware of any of this.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:02:27 pm
*****************
I love the mental image of the construct wringing out Keeper. And I know Khenal votes for Friesden living ;)
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:08:56 pm
The Keeper runs to Khenal.
"Khenal, is this all there is? We've got to figure out what caused the beserking rage. Quickly, before anyone finds her and decides that she should die."
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:14:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:17:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:22:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:25:46 pm
As they trek over the dam, followed by the Keeper, a staircase has appeared where there wasn't before. It leads down to the valley on the side of the river, which has lowered for the moment.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:34:50 pm
'Be careful. I don't know what'll happen if you fall in, but it likely isn't good. How are you doing, Friesden?'
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 08:35:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:40:33 pm
As the group trek through the valley, they come to a wall. The single gate is guarded by two unicorns in full battle armour, carrying swords. They call out "Halt in the name of the Progenitor," and come down to meet the group. As they see you in full vision, they recognise Khenal, and bow down. "Great Progenitor! We worship thee!"
Friesden lets out a small chuckle. "Progenitor, eh?"
This chuckle is cut short as the two guards tackle her and pin her to the ground, swords over her throat.
"Do not insult the Progenitor, foal!" they yell in unison.
They turn to Khenal, awaiting the order to execute her.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:43:50 pm
'Get off her! Listen well! She is my Beloved above all others! You will treat her with the same respect you do me!'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:46:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:51:44 pm
'I didn't want you two to die for a mistake! How can somepony learn without making mistakes?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 08:54:54 pm
"Can we...can we move on? Please?" she asks, almost in a whimper.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 08:56:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 09:00:02 pm
As they pass through the gate, the scenery begins to change. Friesden has closed her eyes and covered her ears, resting a hoof on Khenal to guide her.
Unlike the valley, this area is desolate. The river is not water, but blood. There is a mountain in the distance, the source of the river, and on top is visible a throne, with somepony sitting on it, visible despite the distance. A booming laugh echoes.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 09:06:02 pm
I strain my eyes to try to make out the figure that is apparently the cause of Friesden's troubles.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 09:07:28 pm
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 09:09:15 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 09:11:47 pm
'Any ideas, Keeper?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 09:15:55 pm
He stops, a puzzled look in his face. "I recognise him. I don't remember where I recognise him from, but I recognise him. Anyway, we must confront him, and stop him, somehow. Your construct should be able to deal with the remaining corruption afterwards."
Friesden starts repeating, under her breath, "Don't make me go don't make me go don't make me go don't make me go."
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 09:23:14 pm
'Friesden, I won't force you to go face him, but I think you might need this. You won't face him alone if you do. Will we deal with him together?'
*****************
It's totally her father. If I'm right and Khenal figures that out, he's going to get more than slightly violent.
Edit: Retcon ahoy!
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 09:26:45 pm
"Khenal, you might need to force her. You can't confront her daemons for her. She has to do so herself as well."
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 09:32:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 09:36:28 pm
I turn back to Friesden, my voice calm again.
'Please, Friesden, my love. I know it's frightening, but you need to be there if that figure is to be dealt with. It's part of your mind, and if I try to tamper with it on my own, I could cause serious damage to you! Please, Friesden. Lets face him together.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 09:47:01 pm
The group begin their trek up to the mountain. The red rock that distinguishes it is at least strong enough to walk on, but something sickly red comes out every so often. It's a long walk, but the group eventually climbs the mountain.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 09:55:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:03:09 pm
The Keeper's eyes turn red with hatred again.
"I know that face."
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 10:03:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:08:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:12:37 pm
He charges up the mountain.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 10:15:53 pm
Starkey lowers his hoof from Carrot's door.
'Okay, logic time. I can usually find Carrot in one of three places: here, the hospital, or the prison. He's not here, obviously. And is one of my ponies were to get hurt, somepony would come tell me. Sooo... logically, he's gone and done something stupid and got himself locked up.'
He sighs.
'Oh well, I'll go sit with him for awhile. It's still his birthday, and I've a gift to deliver.'
He spies the chest sitting in the doorway.
'And from the looks of it, so does somepony else. Well, whoever it is, I'm sure they'd prefer to deliver it in person. Hopefully, they'll remember before the party tonight.'
He turns and trots off towards the prison.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:20:00 pm
My voice is calm as I talk to the one I love, but there is no hiding the cold rage in my eyes as I turn towards her father.
'Let's go say hello to your dad.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:27:23 pm
They finish the ascent and reach the throne. The absolutely enormous alicorn stands there, laughing. Before the throne is the Keeper, his back broken.
"Another insect for us to swat, hmmm? And our dear daughter, Friesden. You don't know how hard it's been to corrupt you like this."
He laughs again. "It wasn't hard at all."
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:30:18 pm
I summon Starkey's Honesty, ready to defend my love.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:34:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:38:04 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 10:41:33 pm
He turns and trots off towards the prison.
(ASSUMING DIRECT CONTROL OF ISOS! um... if that's okay, with you.)
As Starkey makes his way toward the prison block he heads down the stairs. Coming up the stairs he spies Guard Captain Isos. She sees the Commander stops and salutes him. "Commander," she speaks, "I am searching for the Countess, have you seen her?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:42:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:51:57 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 10:53:08 pm
"No Captain, I'm afraid I haven't. I believe her office was open when I went past there, you could start there."
"Say... is Lieutenant Carrot down there? I... had a feeling I'd find him here, and it's his birthday today, so I thought maybe I'd pay him a visit, give him his gift."
He gestures towards the helm tucked under his wing.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 10:53:44 pm
The vast beast begins stroking the pony in his hoof. "Jealous, boy?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 10:59:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 10:59:50 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 11:01:15 pm
"Again? I'm surprised he's this quiet, then. I should go talk to him, make sure he's alright."
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 11:03:34 pm
"Khen.....Khenal...he's....so...powerful....kill...kill him...for me," says the Keeper, who then exhales once and breathes no more.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 11:08:47 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 11:11:02 pm
Falcata was slowly making her way down the stairwell, having just passed Captain Isos on the way. She offered a customary gesture as she passed by, thinking again how much she wished Khenal was still her commander. Isos would make a fine captain, she was sure, but it just wasn't the same.
Then she heard Captain Isos speaking with somepony, and the word "dead" caught her ear. She paused in place to listen closer.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 11:12:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 11:13:09 pm
"What... what do you mean he's just dead? He's died or nearly died a dozen times, how could he just die, you're not making sense! Where is he?"
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 11:15:08 pm
((Ah, see you caught that))
The conversation, what she could make of it anyway, was escalating and heading in a direction she really didn't like. Had Captain Isos said that Carrot was dead? She started inching back up the stairway, trying to remain hidden.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 11:15:43 pm
'Do you want him dead, Friesden? I know I do, but this is your decision. What should I do with your father?
***************
Hoisted by my own petard with how I've been doing Khenal's thoughts and thought speech. I never thought I would need to differentiate between thoughts others can hear and thoughts they couldn't :P
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 11:20:32 pm
"I didn't actually see what happened, but I know that it was Friesden," the name is spit out like a curse, "She caused him to fall, and well, there wasn't much of him left intact. Khenal still thinks he can save her. I hate to say this about my old Captain, but he's letting his emotions cloud his judgment. How much longer before she goes crazy and kills somepony else!? We can't let her run around free anymore, she isn't safe."
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 11:23:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 11:27:29 pm
She shook her head and tried to calm herself. She certainly agreed with Isos' opinion on this matter more than Khenal's. Perhaps she had misjudged her new captain. Still, she resisted the urge to bolt up the stairs and demand an explanation.
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 11:31:06 pm
I slowly begin to advance on the source of Friesden's torment.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 11:32:16 pm
"Hello sir! ...Isos...Anyway, what's this about my buddy Carrot?" Asks Crest, innocently.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 11:33:41 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 11:36:38 pm
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 11:40:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 11:41:38 pm
'I intend to give my best for Friesden!'
I break into a swift dive, preparing to cleave into the monster with Starkey's Honesty and my own momentum.
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 11:44:32 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 11:46:41 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 11:48:59 pm
Edit: Forgot closing quotation mark. Is fixed.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 28, 2011, 11:49:33 pm
"S-She... He... He can't..."
Starkey loses the ability to speak, his words devolving into a low, piteous wail that carries far and echoes through the halls.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 11:49:52 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 28, 2011, 11:51:39 pm
She nods nervously and heads up the stairs. "Y-Yes, captain."
Post by: Khenal on November 28, 2011, 11:53:52 pm
*****************
((Awww...No Carrot Loyalty? Shame...))
He'll likely use Carrot's Loyalty as well, when the opportunity arrises.
Post by: Dsarker on November 28, 2011, 11:57:03 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 28, 2011, 11:58:36 pm
Post by: The Master on November 28, 2011, 11:59:00 pm
'One last fight, my friend.' Says Carrot, his spectre here to be with Khenal.
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 12:00:30 am
(Does anyone mind if I skip ahead, to Captain Isos and Charity arriving in Isos's office? Are all three of you coming?)
(I'll be around for only another hour or so, so I'd recommend skipping ahead)
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 12:02:13 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 12:06:43 am
I smile, summoning Carrot's Loyalty for him to wield.
'I'll distract him.'
I quickly start to circle the alicorn, hoping to flank him between myself and Carrot.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 12:07:48 am
(Does anyone mind if I skip ahead, to Captain Isos and Charity arriving in Isos's office? Are all three of you coming?)(I'll be around for only another hour or so, so I'd recommend skipping ahead)
(Good enough for me.)
After a few minutes [during which I'll assume somepony helps the commander along] Captain Isos, and the Countess walk into Isos's office. Charity is flanked by one of the member's of Psycho's squad, a legendary boyer responsible for all the masterful bone crossbows the squad carries. His name is Osal and he carries his artifact wooden bow, also named Osal.
Charity, speaks as she walk in the door, "Why did I have to come down here? What couldn't you tell me in my offi..." she stops when she see's the crowd gathered in here. A member of the guard she doesn't really know, and Crest Fire, another one of her families body guards, along with the Commander. Realizing that this must be important. She takes a seat and prepares to listen.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 12:13:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 12:22:06 am
Friesden stands up. She runs to Khenal.
"I want to help."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 12:22:53 am
"This won't be easy to explain, and I don't have all the information yet, but..."
She proceeds to give out all the information she knows about Carrot's death. That he's been killed. How he died. That he likely won't be able to come back this time. That Khenal put his body in a wooden chest. That Friesden killed him. That she's been chained up, and that Khenal still thinks he can save her, and the captain's opinion that he's foolish for trying.
She does mention that Khenal claims it was self-defence, but also, points out that he's both living with her (not unbiased) and is the one who brought her in to be chained up, and thus the Captain doesn't really buy it.
Edit: for corrections.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 12:29:32 am
******************
Khenal told her it was self defense, but he's hardly an unimpeachable witness.
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 12:31:27 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 12:34:35 am
Khenal told her it was self defense, but he's hardly an unimpeachable witness.
I have made corrections to my last post. To those it may apply to please check it.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 12:35:02 am
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 12:37:58 am
No, that wouldn't solve anything. She let the anger drain away slowly and relaxed the scowl forming on her face.
What she wanted to know right now was why. Why was Friesden even allowed out, where this could happen? Why would Khenal allow this? None of that was the question right now though. The question right now, was what was the countess going to say, or do about it?
She remains silent, trusting her superiors have a decent answer.
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 12:40:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 12:41:53 am
My eyes light up as I realize what's wrong.
'Of course! It needs to be you, Friesden! Carrot and I can't hurt it because we arent you. You need to defeat him, not us. Do you think you could snap his horn with the momentum from a dive? Or something else? Let Carrot and I keep him busy so you can deal with him your way. How's that sound?'
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 12:44:26 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 12:45:08 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 12:48:11 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 12:56:35 am
A trial in the pony civilization is less formalized than that which we know. Indeed, in the average pony town, or village everypony knows more or less everypony else, and they tend to be close knit. Serious crimes are, usually, quite rare but when they do happen. A trial is held. A pony trial is more like the worst kind of family meeting than those trials of some other races. I'll provide more details when we approach it.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 12:59:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 01:00:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 01:05:00 am
Oh man, that's going to be awesome.I do hope so. But you and Dsarker will need to wrap up your mental vacation first. Then I imagine some people will want to RP out some conversations/arguments/investigations/etc during the week before the trail. So I will allow for some time for that happen. Then we'll get into it.
Oh also,
RELINQUISHING DIRECT CONTROL OF ISOS.
If anypony has any plans involving her, go right ahead.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 01:07:03 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:10:02 am
"AND THEN, THE FIRE SNAKE SAID 'WHAAAAT!?" HA HA, AND THEN..." And so on and so forth.
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 01:14:50 am
Faster than she had ever reacted, she stopped by his face, and looked deep in his eyes.
"I forgive you, father. For everything."
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 01:15:04 am
Even if she couldn't conceive of any way for Friesden to mount a plausible defense, it was the right thing to do. She was extremely interested in hearing Khenal's side of the story.
At least she had her answer on why Friesden was allowed to leave. She trusted Khenal moreso than just about anypony, but she still couldn't imagine his line of reasoning. How could anypony ever be certain that a previously possessed pony was safe to be let free?
((Eh, would this be a public trial or only for those involved? Oh, and off to bed for me, so:))
With some difficulty, Falcata clears her throat and says,"Pardon the interruption, countess, captain, but... I must be getting back to my quarters." She blinks a few times to shake the fatigue from her mind and asks, "Is there anything you need of me? I will speak of this to nopony."
*****
((Nice twist, Dsarker.))
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 01:21:29 am
The dam in the distance creaks as the new water floods down at breakneck pace. The construct on the wall yells at the workers to get off, and they manage to clear it just as the dam breaks and the waters flood down. The once desolate valley beyond the dam bursts into new life, plants where once were none, fish where once were none, and ponies lived once more in the place surrounding the former dam.
If Khenal looks, he can see the construct bowing down and gathering the unicorns. His work here is done. For good.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:24:18 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 01:26:03 am
((Eh, would this be a public trial or only for those involved? Oh, and off to bed for me, so:))
With some difficulty, Falcata clears her throat and says,"Pardon the interruption, countess, captain, but... I must be getting back to my quarters." She blinks a few times to shake the fatigue from her mind and asks, "Is there anything you need of me? I will speak of this to nopony."
(This will definitely be a public trial. That's just how things are done in the pony world, I would imagine. When I said, it's like the worst kind of family meeting I meant it, and the family in question is Glitterglen. Anyone who has something to say, or just wants to be present will be welcome. I'm planning on having the dinning hall used for the purpose of the trail, that day.)
The countess looks at Falcata, "no my dear, but thank you. Just make sure not to breathe a word of this to anypony until after the official announcement is made." Now, I have the unhappy task of telling Kil about her husband." there is a pause, "Oh, and I'll need to assign a new Captain to the Skyguard. If I remember correctly, you," she looks at Crest Fire, "were Carrot's second in command? I guess that makes you Captain Crest Fire now. Congratulations." The Countess get's up to leave, her guard Osal follows behind.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 01:28:05 am
'If you really want to, I'd be happy to let you stay with me. Are you sure you don't want to continue on to whatever comes after, though? I'd expect you to have something happy waiting for you. Speaking of happy, excuse me a moment.'
I fly to my beloved, proud that she had the strength to handle her past and do it her way.
'You did it, Friesden!'
*****************
I was so hoping for something like this :D
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:28:37 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 01:30:42 am
Starkey rises from his seat, moving to follow the Countess.
"I was his commander... and friend. I would appreciate it... if you allowed me the task of breaking the news to his family, ma'am."
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 01:31:17 am
"I'm sorry. How could you ever forgive me?"
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:31:42 am
Khenal then hears Carrot say inside his head, "Hey, it's roomy in here! HA HA!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 01:34:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:36:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 01:37:14 am
"I'd love to spend forever here with you, my love. But you have things to do..."
((afk. 30 minutes))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 01:38:01 am
He trots out the door.
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 01:38:32 am
"Of course, countess. "
Falcata bows before Countess Charity and exits the office. She chances a glance back to Captain Starkey, who has remained silent, if not catatonic throughout the ordeal. Another pang of anger races through her mind as she contemplates the pain he must be enduring from losing his friend and brother-at-arms.
She hangs her head low and trudges off to her quarters where she finds Kris fast asleep in bed. She eases in next to her daughter and tries to halt the racing thoughts in her mind. She wasn't going to be getting much sleep that night, she could already tell.
Kris shifts next to her and makes a small noise before settling down again. Painful memories of the past mingle with the events of just minutes ago. At least Friesden was in custody. She wasn't going to let anypony possibly take Kris from her. Nopony.
((So much for heading to bed. This is more addicting than I thought it would be, heh. Ok, I'm gone for real this time.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 01:45:55 am
"NO NO! I'LL DO IT!!!" Yells Crest hurriedly, not wanting to pass this up.
"Alright then. I'll have the appropriate paperwork filled out, but as of now, you are Captain Crest Fire, of the Wavy Passes, the Skyguard of Glitterglen, and the Defenders of the Noble house of Conventtulip. May our fortunes rise with you."
(After I kill off Psycho Carrot in the game, give me a few more minutes, we'll see if Kil goes nuts. Assuming she survives, I'm going to move her and her family into a new room and give the old one to Captain Crest Fire.)
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 01:50:14 am
'My love is finally a whole pony again, everything will work out!'
I prance a bit as I head to Isos' office to ask her for the keys to let Friesden out.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 01:52:42 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:00:49 am
******************
Khenal is an awkward pony :P
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:04:57 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 02:09:19 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:12:24 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:16:38 am
"Hello, friend."
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 02:17:45 am
"HI! I'M CREST! WHAT'S YOUR NAME?!" Yells Crest in the same way Carrot used to yell.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:22:38 am
"Uh, hello Crest Fire, I'm Khenal. Hey Starkey. You've...heard the news, I take it?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:24:09 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:28:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:31:31 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:33:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 02:35:33 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 02:36:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:38:46 am
"Yes, I know, and for what it's worth I believe you. Listen, there's to be a trial in one week's time. One week to seek out evidence and prepare her defense."
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:43:33 am
"...Defending her won't be easy, even with you vouching for my testimony. The truth of what happened just sounds so crazy."
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 02:45:55 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 02:50:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 02:52:39 am
"Corp... lieutenant Crest, please go get moved into your new quarters."
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 02:55:02 am
*********************
"NEW QUARTERS?! WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!" Screams Crest, calm as ever.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 03:01:37 am
"Well... here we are."
Starkey lifts a hoof and gently raps on the door.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 03:03:58 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 03:14:24 am
"Hi! What's up?" She asks.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 03:18:21 am
"Good afternoon, Miss Kil. We would like to speak to you about something... in private."
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 03:28:02 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 03:30:46 am
'Anything you'd like me to say to Kil, Carrot?'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 03:33:40 am
The caravan from the capital has arrived. They are expecting an offering to the princess in value of at least 20,000 bits. I believe we have more than enough goods to pay the tax.
21st Obsidian 98
The Rainbows sent a Tentacle pony to represent them. I won't lie, I don't feel comfortable letting a diomedian so far inside our defenses, though he was more or less polite. Didn't stop me from keeping guards close at hoof.
24th Obsidian 98
Isos, the new guard captain, had another foal today. A little unicorn filly. She's quite weak though, even for an infant. We're all just hoping she'll be okay, though the doctors give her good odds.
25th Obsidian 98
The pony from the capital had great news for the ponies of Glitterglen, where being elevated in the eyes of the realm. We will be a duchy and I will be the Duchess. Now to tell everypony.
(Khenal when you transcribe the earlier part where we're dealing with Psycho's death, please change all mention of Countess Charity to Duchess Charity, as this will have happened first.)
1st Granite 99
A new year, and our offering to the princess was accepted, and we were able to trade for a mountain of metal. All is good, in Glitterglen for once.
9th Granite 99
I gave birth to my newest daughter today. My fifth child. Her name is Copper Riverknight.
12th Granite 99
Kil just had her youngest son today. A little pegasus, can't really see the family resemblence to Carrot, guess the colt just takes after his mother.
1st Slate 99
I've just come from a very difficult meeting. It seems as if Friesden, has murdered my trusted friend, Captain Carrot. While death has never stopped him before it seems the fall did enough damage to finally stop him. He is being honored with a tomb in the wooden tower. The third floor now being reserved for the final resting places of our bravest military ponies. The murderer, or I should say accused murderer, is being held in the prisons, In one weak we shall have a trial to decide her fate.
As I write this the Commander is breaking the news to his wife. I hope he is gentle with it. These are delicate matters.
Khenal still thinks Friesden is harmless, claims it was self defense, I can't disagree more with him, but I'll hear it out at the trial in one week.
A pegasus pony by the name of Crest Fire will be taking over as Captain of my Skyguard and will be given Carrot's families old room, once Kil has had time to move into a new room.
(Kil didn't even drop from estatic when Psycho Carrot died, that's just cold. Poor Carrot, his wife doesn't even care he's dead. Same with his kids. Heartless, all of them.)
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 03:35:24 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 03:39:49 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 03:39:53 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 03:43:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 03:45:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 03:45:52 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 03:50:06 am
****************************
"W-w-what's wrong?" Kil asks worriedly.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 03:52:06 am
'...When did my life get so weird that I worry ponies might actually stay dead? Anyway, we have more company in here. Meet Carrot.'
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 03:53:04 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 03:53:22 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 03:57:53 am
**********************
"Alright. Anyway, what's wrong?" Asks Kil.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:02:15 am
"N-No ma'am, I don't think you understand. He didn't leave, he's... dead."
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 04:03:27 am
******************
Only just managed to not call her Jim instead
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:05:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:06:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 29, 2011, 04:10:24 am
-------------------------------------------------------
*Bubbles stopped concentrating on his needle. It was tipped with a rare and deadly forgotten beast poison, and had been given to him by the caravan folk. His door had been opened and he had been told that Carrot, had indeed died for the last time.*
"What...? Tell me it wasn't me...TELL ME!" Bubbles shouts to himself, mad with grief. He promptly bucked down the hospital doors, and galloped to Carrot's bedroom.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 04:12:41 am
"Uh...he's not going to get better this time?"
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:13:38 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:14:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 29, 2011, 04:14:55 am
"TELL ME IT WASN'T MY FAULT! WAS IT AN INFECTION!??!?!?!?!?"
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:15:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:17:16 am
"Wha... Your husband, the father of your foals is dead! How is that good news?"
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:19:28 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 04:21:22 am
"No, Doctor, it wasn't an infection. Excuse me, please. I need to go...do something."
'Before I try to buck Kil's teeth out.'
"No, actually, I could use your help, Bubbles. I think I have a few broken ribs."
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 29, 2011, 04:22:28 am
*Bubbles feels Khenal's ribs, then ushers him to the hospital.*
((Now, the Master))
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:22:58 am
"W-What about your foals? How do you think they're going to react, knowing they're never going to see their father again?"
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:23:16 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 29, 2011, 04:24:08 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:24:31 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:28:36 am
This time, the leaves are dry.
"You... you callous, self-serving bitch."
White-hot rage overwhelms Starkey's defenses, as he rams his hoof into the side of Kil's face.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:28:52 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:30:31 am
The blow that Starkey issued to Kil's skull caused it to shatter. Kil would be better off dead at this point...
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:31:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:31:22 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:33:12 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 04:33:24 am
********************
I hate to drop the hammer like this, but I need to. Firstly, a nitpick: hearing thoughts would be telepathy, not telekinesis. Secondly, we've established that it takes a mental link to actually hear the thoughts of others. And even if it didn't, Khenal is a master of mental magics. He wouldn't leave his thoughts unguarded, especially now that he has two others in his head.
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:34:30 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 29, 2011, 04:34:54 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:35:21 am
((I enjoy this...I am now dsarker 2.0 :P))'Khenal, mind if I kill her?'
The blow that Starkey issued to Kil's skull caused it to shatter. Kil would be better off dead at this point...
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:42:35 am
Oblivious, Starkey continues ranting at the prone mare.
"He wed you, gave you two beautiful children, fought and defeated a daemon for you, laid down his life for you, and when he's gone you throw him out like so much trash! He was a better pony than you could ever hope to be!"
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:44:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:44:55 am
Khenal, don't kill anypony.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 04:48:48 am
I continue walking with the Doctor to the hospital, unaware of how Starkey is doing.
****************
And suddenly, Khenal is the parent trying to regain control of the rowdy kids :P
I've hit a bit of a wall with the transcribing of Glitterglen. I just hit the part where we actually get into interactions and fast rp, and have been having trouble with it. It looks like I'll be doing a lot more actual writing to make sure thigns flow well, so it's taking a lot longer than the simple copy/paste and edit of the previous chapters.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:49:40 am
The fires of Starkey's rage subside, and he sees the results of his outburst for the first time. He rushes to her side, checking her for any sign of serious injury.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 04:51:05 am
gave you two beautiful children(Three actually, as of my last update. One was born just a few days before Carrot died. Assuming they're all actually his. Which seems unlikely now.)
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:52:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:52:56 am
"Yes."
"The same guard responsible for the deaths of two friends, one of whom was a militia pony?"
"Yes."
"The same event that lead you to start a full scale revolt?"
"Yes."
"Why didn't you imprison Khenal, first?"
"Because I knew it wasn-"
"And then when you had almost captured the duchess, you were stopped...by the deceased."
"Yes, but-"
"And now the deceased is dead, leaving the duchess unprotected, as you see it. And who killed the deceased? Khenal's fillyfriend. One who already had the excuse of daemon possession. And you then attacked the deceased's mate, didn't you?"
"Yes, but-"
"And you expect us to believe that there was no conspiracy! That the murder of Carrot wasn't deliberate? Nothing further, Your Honour."))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 04:54:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 29, 2011, 04:55:45 am
Congratulations!))
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 04:56:37 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 04:56:46 am
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 05:04:57 am
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 05:06:12 am
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 05:09:04 am
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 11:26:08 am
((He sucker-punched her. how the hell do you get a skull fracture from that?))
((Well, this is Dwarf Fortress after all. Kind of. I'd say Starkey's little outburst would count as a tantrum, and I've seen fatal tantrum punches to the head))
Falcata's Diary - 21st Obsidian, 98
The rainbow ponies sent their diplomat to meet with the countess today. It wasn't long after the tentacle pony set hoof in the door that Isos discreetly informed us to keep a close eye on him and to stay close to the countess. I couldn't agree more with that decision, so I obeyed. Fortunately, nothing came of the matter, and so far as I know the meeting was conducted and he left without incident.
25th Obsidian, 98
Word passed down today that things are going well enough here that Countess Charity has been granted the title of Duchess from the princess. I still have strong reservations about the way she handled the smuggling incident, but otherwise I suppose she has earned the title.
But enough of that. When I enquired about Isos' absence today, I was informed she had given birth yesterday. Kris is enough for me to keep up with, so I don't know how she's going to handle having another foal.
1st Slate, 99
I don't know what to think. Just as I was finishing another failure of a practice session, I overheard Captain Isos and Captain Starkey discussing something terrible.
It seems that the murderous Dr. Friesden has claimed another life. This time, it was Captain Carrot of the militia. I
That I don't understand at all. I've seen Khenal associating with Friesden off and on, but I didn't really comprehend the implications until now. I trust Khenal's decisions more than just about anypony else, but this I just don't understand. Regardless, it seems he made a terrible mistake that has cost the life of Captain Carrot.
Well, we'll get to see what he has to say on the matter soon enough. Duchess Charity has set a trial for Friesden a week from today. If I have time I'll be there to watch. I want to know what Khenal and Friesden have to say for themselves.
For now, I'm going to try again to get some sleep. My first attempt was fruitless, but perhaps now that I've cleared my mind I'll manage.
Post by: Haspen on November 29, 2011, 12:13:05 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 12:59:09 pm
Is Ironya still alive and producing weapons of bloody destructions for brave ponies? What about her husband and kids?
Aye. They're all just fine. Everypony else is possibly doomed. Yay conspiracies. But Ironya's just fine.
Post by: DVNO on November 29, 2011, 04:55:50 pm
Couth wakes up from a fitful night of sleep and eats a healthy breakfast of cupcakes and alcohol. it's nice little escape from a Fortress gone to hell. he looks at a mirror and sees the scar Alister gave him. Mares dig Colts with scars, right?
"you know what? that's not my biggest problem right now." Couth tells the mirror. " The Mayor might kill me, the Domidians will kill me, Khenal might expose me, or Nicolta Tesla or anyone in the cell block right now could rat me out!" Couth exasperates with a little hysteria.
"It's like no matter what I do now, I lose." Couth admits in defeat. he gives in.
In midst of the paranoia and delusions whirling around in Couth's mind, something devious clicks together.
"No.. no, there is a way out of this this!" Couth exclaims. he grabs a pen and paper and starts manically writing what he likes to call a 'plan' but it's his stream of consciousness on paper.
"I can win! Hahah, they can't kill me if they're too busy killing each other! HA HA!" the madmare beams.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 05:26:52 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 06:07:12 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 06:11:45 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 06:22:19 pm
One with much military and with a "I can do anything myself" attitude, please.
Name: Cornbread
Gender: Male
Profession: Military
EDIT:or do I message him...?
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 06:32:49 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 06:37:25 pm
Just posting had worked for everypony so far. You might want to specify which branch of the military you want, though. There's the Guard, which was run by Khenal until recently. There's the Skyguard, which is composed of pegasi with crossbows, and there's the actual military for the melee squad. Welcome to Glitterglen!
Haha, thanks man, I think I'll go for Skyguard, since Cornbread IS a very ambitious pony.
Cornbread's First Day of Training
Marcus (trainer) "There we go, now that's how you stab. And that-"
Cornbread "-IS HOW YOU KILL MONSTERS!! Alright, thanks Marcus! I am READY FOR-"
*Marcus grabs Cornbread by the tail just before he can fly off.
Marcus "Hooooold your horses, trainee. You've got to master the basics, first. Now show me what you've got."
*Cornbread does a thrust at Marcus, who quickly parries it, and, in one smooth fluid motion, knocks the sword away from Cornbread and renders him weaponless.
Marcus *laughs "With skills like that, you'll be chopped horsemeat in no time! Here, let me show you how it's REALLY done..." (Exunt)
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 07:22:45 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 07:31:26 pm
Just posting had worked for everypony so far.
And do I just jump in to roleplay? Are there any rules...or...
I'm the dumbass who doesn't know a thing about roleplay. Feel free to refer me to the sledgehammer if you'd like.
We don't have to stick to the journel entries? Oh joy! This calls for a serious party!
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 07:39:46 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 07:47:41 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 07:50:46 pm
Marcus "Alright, trainee, congratulations! You've finished your whole training cycle! Now you can finally go off to war and be a good soldier!"
Cornbread *jumps in the air "Yes! My dream; now I can follow it!"
*Cornbread sees the other graduating trainees flying in a small cluster, heading towards the barracks to report for duty. He immediatly takes off after them.
*Marcus watches the cloud disappears in the distance. He hears the sound of footsteps behind him.
Marcus *turning around "Who are...Grapevine, my brother! How are you?"
*Marcus and Grapevine, a tall cloud guardian, embrace each other warmly.
Grapevine "I am very glad to see you too, brother. I have just arrived from 'insert name here' city. We have trouble."
Marcus *leaning back in shock "Trouble? Why, that is a very uncommon word here in 'insert city name here.' What kind of trouble could it possibly be?"
Grapevine *lowers his head. "One of my subcordinates, Anvil, was found dead by the ramparts. I knew we have a traitor in our midst, but was too weak to eliminate the threat. I seek your help."
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 07:55:44 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:00:18 pm
The white pegaseus introduced himself. "My name is Cornbread! I was sent here to guard...something...apperently...I forgot...hm..."
Cornbread is lost in deep thought.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 08:04:41 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:06:16 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:06:33 pm
Oh, and that was the sadest thing I've ever heard. Poor Khenal!
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 08:16:11 pm
I open my eyes, though I stay laying down on the hospital bed.
"Hello Cornbread, I'm Khenal. Um, why are you here in the hospital, you look healthy."
***************
Huh, you registered today. Did you come over from FiMFiction?
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:17:25 pm
Before Khenal can say anything, Cornbread starts hopping in the air.
"Cause I was walking down here, and then I saw you, and then you seemed cool, and then..." he rambles on and on.
======================================
Huh, you registered today. Did you come over from FiMFiction?
Nah, I joined over cause I'd been playing DF for sometime...didn't register before though. I was too lazy and had too much schoolwork. D:
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 08:20:27 pm
"Not right now, thanks though. I just need to rest and to think."
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:22:16 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:25:15 pm
The area is very quiet. The smell of decaying bodies fill my nostrils, causing me to feel nausious. I hear the scuttle of a rat.
"Ha!" Cornbread yells. "I see you! Halte, vermin!"
The rat darts under a tablecloth. Yelling, Cornbread follows it, waving his sword wildly around.
"I'll get you," he mutters under his breath. "You aren't escaping from me!"
"Cornbread!" A voice yells. "What are you doing in here?"
Cornbread turns around to see his friend "Insert appropriate name HERE (I'l use the placeholder Bluejay.)" standing across the chamber. "Bluejay!" he cries. "Am I glad to see you! How have-"
"Awesome," Bluejay replies. "But what are you doing here? This is the morgue. You shouldn't be here."
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 08:28:53 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:30:37 pm
Cornbread laughs. "I'm hunting for monsters! What are you doing?"
"I'm hunting for you, idiot! Where've you been? We're supposed to report to the field now!"
Cornbread is shocked. "What? But I thought-"
"Nevermind what you thought! Now come with me before our captain finds out what you've been doing all morning!" The two rush down the hallway, and out of the morgue.
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 08:33:56 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:35:57 pm
((Oh, and sigged.))
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 08:41:15 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:42:01 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 08:58:58 pm
"Scrapjaw, what do you want?" Grapevine askes.
"The moon's full," Scrapjaw says, "as you very well know. The time is coming. We creatures of the night cannot wait any longer. You will either surrender the 'insert object of importance here' or we wipe you out."
"Is that a challenge? Do you wish to face me right now?" Grapevine draws his sword, turning to face the werewolf.
"No, not yet," The boogyman snarls. "One day, be very sure, pony. One day..."
With an cackle, the boogyman dissappears into the darkness, leaving Grapevine, his sword still drawn, to comprehend the words he'd heard.
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 09:00:55 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 09:07:16 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 09:11:42 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 29, 2011, 09:14:39 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 09:19:54 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 09:22:09 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 09:26:58 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 09:33:01 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 09:37:15 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 09:44:22 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 10:17:04 pm
=======================================
If you guys don't mind, I'm gonna place Cornbread's control in your hands (cause I've got a bit of a work to do.), just don't make him do anything that he might otherwise not do, such as staying away from a fight.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 10:39:53 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
I did not have any unclaimed male member's of the Skyguard. (Technically Osal is available and male, but he's come up enough that unless someone has specific plans for him I'd like him to remain an NPC) Thus Cornbread is a mare. If this bother's you, you can change your claim to someone not from the skyguard. I never noticed before but Otik's squad is 100% female.
Currently, Cornbread is a member of Otik's squad, and has a pet black bear, but no other relations in the fort. She's the newest member of the squad and isn't yet very good with her bow yet, though she is a proficient wrestler.
Also, at this point I would like to say, to everyone, please keep the insanity to a minimum, but I've let The Master run around this long, and it would feel hollow saying it.
Finally, I think it would be best if we rewind to just after Starkey realizes what he's done to Kil and called for the doctor. This is going to be an important event and I don't think it good to leave it hanging like we did. If that's okay with everyone?
Post by: Khenal on November 29, 2011, 10:53:17 pm
Huh, Cornbread is a Friesden clone.
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 29, 2011, 10:57:53 pm
If this is disrupting the roleplay in anyway, please notify me immediatly. Then I will be able to stop.
Note, this is done AFTER the actual roleplay.
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 10:59:50 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 29, 2011, 11:04:23 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 11:22:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 29, 2011, 11:23:25 pm
Post by: The Master on November 29, 2011, 11:49:17 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 12:11:36 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 12:27:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 12:41:42 am
'Khenal, did you not hear me screaming?! THE ZEBRAS ARE COMING, AND THEY'RE NOT HAPPY!!!'
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 12:53:03 am
'...Why are they unhappy? Besides, this is what we have the militia and skyguard for. I'll go warn them if they haven't noticed yet, but I doubt anypony is going to trust me enough to give me a weapon.'
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 01:06:35 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 01:15:02 am
I get out of the bed and make my way towards the laughter.
*************
Heh, Khenal continues to not be a morning pony.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 01:24:12 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 01:29:56 am
I shake my head before returning the crossbow and quiver to the guard and walking to the surface. Once there, I start heading to the tower, looking for any martial ponies who may be on duty there.
***********
Where is everypony today?
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 01:37:48 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 01:48:08 am
'Where are these angry zebras supposed to be, anyway?'
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 01:51:26 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 02:02:15 am
'Zebras can't do anything like that, can they?'
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:13:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 02:18:14 am
I rush up to the top floor of the tower as fast as I can, hoping to confirm or deny the presence of any siege equipment. Preferably the later.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:28:56 am
Sadly, Khenal sees what appears to be thousands of Catapults, all lined up in a line, as far as the eye can see.
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 02:33:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 02:34:39 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:39:47 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 02:41:27 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:45:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 02:50:05 am
Please, The Master, tell me Kil is going to alright in, say, a week of in-story time. I've got an entirely unethical, though more sane, way of getting us all out of this mess. It involves Kil lying, Starkey telling only partial truth, and Khenal being willing to get Kil to lie.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:55:28 am
Crest Fire headbutts poor Charity's office door down.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 02:59:46 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:04:06 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 03:06:54 am
"Captain Crest Fire! Why did you knock my door down!" Shouts the Duchess as she get's back into her chair, and returns her letter opener to it's rightful place.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:09:24 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 03:12:18 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:15:00 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 03:16:58 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:17:43 am
I lay down on top of the tower, preparing to enter my mindscape and stop Carrot from destroying my sanity.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:20:36 am
*******************
"Yes." Crest simply says.
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:29:06 am
'Freeze this instant, Carrot! Do not force me to oust you! Do nothing unless I ask you to!'
My look of steel and ice is turned on my friend for the first time. He may have seen it used on others, but this is the first time he's been unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end.
*******************
Khenal's just a bit upset with Carrot. After all, he's doing a job that several daemons have tried and failed to do.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:30:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 03:37:27 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:40:47 am
'Carrot, what you see is no simple landscape. A mind is all symbolism and metaphors. Any damage you do here is not simply to property, but to my very being! Doing anything in a mind without the consent of the one who owns it can cause immense damage!
'And where the buck is Keeper? I'd think he would have kept you from doing this much damage, or at least warned me of what was happening!'
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 03:47:09 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:47:29 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:55:09 am
Carrot feels an immense force on himself as I pour my magic into banishing him from me.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:58:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 04:00:21 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:08:21 am
'If you cannot respect my memories and directions, I can't allow you to stay, Carrot! Do you have any idea what could happen if I go mad? I'd like you to stay, but not at the risk of that happening! Will you stop destroying my mindscape? Can you stop?'
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:11:50 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 04:18:48 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:21:06 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 04:21:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 04:21:56 am
Khenal, The Master, KingStrongbeard. Mind if we retcon the beast at the top of the evil mountain into an alicorn (this of course means that we have to retcon all of the references to Friesden's father being a unicorn to him being an alicorn, but hey! What do you say?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 04:23:32 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:25:22 am
'If you can't appreciate the seriousness of the situation, I will have no choice but to excise you from myself. Will you stop toying with my mind, Carrot?'
*********************
I'm good with that if you want it, Dsarker. I'll go edit my posts if everypony else is ok with it.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:28:41 am
Carrot doesn't respond, he's too busy trying to struggle free, pulling the direction of where he heard Keeper's muffled voice.
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:36:04 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 04:38:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 04:44:01 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:45:57 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:47:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 04:49:34 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:54:13 am
'Carrot?'
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 04:55:15 am
"...Khenal....Are you okay?
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:59:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 04:59:20 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 05:00:47 am
Bob's your uncle.
I was not aware at all that ponies knew English witty comments.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:01:49 am
'THAT'S HORRIBLE! WHY NOT JUST HOLD HER DOWN AT BOW POINT AND FORCE THE INFORMATION OUT OF HER?!'
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:02:20 am
Bob's your uncle.
I was not aware at all that ponies knew English witty comments.
See, neither did I!
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 05:03:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:03:28 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:05:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:06:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:09:06 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 05:10:24 am
Meanwhile, on the tower roof, I remain laying still, seemingly unresponsive to Bubbles' inquiries.
**************
Holy crap, now I see what everyone meant about the thread moving fast.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:11:51 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:16:15 am
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 05:20:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:26:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:29:07 am
Well, only one thing for it. My Little Dinosaur mod!))
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 05:35:02 am
'Oh yes, everything is going to be just fine and hunkey dory. Ingest above, I almost wish we were dealing with hordes of zebras and catapults! Ugh, I'm going to head back to the hospital and then clean the mess Carrot made in here.'
***************
I'm thinking bed soon. Also, from how Carrot went into Kil's room and not the hospital, it looks like Starkey is off the hook for murder/ponyslaughter! Unless anyone has any interesting new threads to introduce to our sudden courtroom drama, we might be able to get this trial started tomorrow.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:36:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 05:37:23 am
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 02:53:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 02:56:40 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:02:49 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:10:40 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:15:26 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:20:55 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 03:51:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 03:58:25 pm
Edit: That was fairly simple. Here's the 70x70 pixel heads for Khenal, Starkey and Friesden
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 04:20:05 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 04:24:48 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:19:14 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 05:22:38 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 05:44:23 pm
alright...I'm going to organize a team and create the trial. Please, give me any extra information on each of the ponies' personalities, reactions to questions, and possibly a picture of the scene of the crime(in other words, If Eggman would like to help make it).
Illustrate the scene? I'd love to, but I'm probably going to be up all night programming a simulated robotic sentry turret killing aliens, so I doubt I'll have time.
Hmm, maybe. This trial is covering the initial murder plus the killing of Carrot, right? I'd have to go way back and review the initial murder. As far as Carrot's death, he was mostly a bunch of guts on the ground, right?
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 05:48:18 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 05:49:07 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on November 30, 2011, 06:06:59 pm
Could we make the trial be on a saturday or sunday? That way I can participate in it. Right now, Khenal could still be gathering a defense case.
EDIT: Herp Derp typos.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 06:13:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 06:17:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 06:20:33 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on November 30, 2011, 06:22:22 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 06:32:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 06:33:18 pm
Also, i'm on the east coast, just like Telgin and Impending doom. Dsarker is from Australia(correct?).
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 07:20:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 07:39:08 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 07:41:04 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 08:26:33 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 08:33:32 pm
(I think we should allow for this trail to be a slower affair then we have in past, and not allow it to be solved in one night of rapid fire posts, so that more ponies who want to contribute can do so. I purpose the following method for doing this.)
Chairty takes her place in front.
Isos reads the charges.
Friesden states wheather she claims innocence or is guilty.
Assuming she claims innocence, Everypony who wishes a turn to speak is allowed to, be they for or against the witness. Isos uses her turn to bring forth the evidence against Friesden and Khenal and the others defend. (we let the thread stay in this state for at least one day.)
When everything is said and done, the Duchess will make a ruling and dictate any punishment if there is to be any. (Don't worry Dsarker I will be fair about it, and will take your wishes for the character into account.)
If this sounds good to everybody and I hear no objections with the format, I can set the scene now.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 08:42:43 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 08:43:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 08:46:55 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 08:49:52 pm
Of course, I assume that she and the other fortress guard would be expected to be present, in case of civil unrest and all.
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 08:51:56 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 08:57:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 09:01:35 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:01:41 pm
Just think:
The prisoner heard the clattering of metal keys, and then the slam of the iron door. Bright light flooded inside the small dark prison cell, the shadows dissolving in the morning mist. She blinked twice, blinded by the sudden bright light.
The prisoner felt a shudder as she felt herself being forced onto her feet, her shackles clanking as she was half-dragged out into the open courtyard, into the morning sun. Her ear-crusted eyes widened as she saw the multitude awaiting her trial. Empirial Guard Pegasi stood atop the ramparts, and the balconies were filled with people, all attention centered on the flat on which the grand trial was to be held.
The prisoner caught sight of her judges, and felt a sickening feeling deep down in the pit of her stomach. She swallowed, and sat in the center of the flat, the judges watching her with intense eyes that bore into her mind.
this is epicness.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:03:58 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 09:06:23 pm
Is anypony else going to be witnessing in favor of Friesden? I'd imagine it'd be easy enough to find somepony who heard Carrot yelling about killing both Khenal and Friesden on the tower, lending strength to Khenal's claim that it was self defense. Efim's murder, however, will be difficult...
Seems plausible that another fortress guard could have witnessed this. I have no idea what the fortress layout is or exactly where this happened. Presumably there would have been some citizens somewhere within eye or earshot of it. What they might have to say is the question though.
I wouldn't mind playing another guard if no one else with more time wants to do it.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:07:37 pm
"The time has finally come." Mumbles the unicorn to herself.
The doors are opened and citizens of Glitterglen come in to take their seats. When everyone is seated. Through the door comes Captain Isos. In her mouth is a zinc chain that leads to a metal collar around Friesden's neck. Friesden also has shackles on her legs that prevent her from running and her wings are bound with leather straps. It's difficult not to appear guilty just from her appearance. Khenal walks in beside her.
As the prisoner walks through the hall she is meet with a loud outcry of both catcalls, jeers, and few supportive shouts. "SILENCE!" shouts the Duchess over the crowd and they do so. The Captain leads the prisoner to the middle of the room, where a statue of the god of Justice rests, Friesden's chain is attached and locked to the statue.
Isos takes her place in front of the crowd and unfurls a scroll, she reads, "Miss Friesden Sectlaces you are charged with the murder, of the first degree, of efim Glitterbends the fisherpony and the murder, also of the first degree, of Captain Psycho Carrot Bristledhail of the Skyguard of Glitterglen. How do you plead?"
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:07:50 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:09:00 pm
I'll voice the prosecutor.
Okay, but this has a lot of potential to be awesome. Please don't Master it up.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:10:18 pm
don't Master it up.((WHY DOES EVERYPONY TELL ME THAT?!))
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:13:03 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:13:43 pm
TIME TO TROLL THE BOARDS.
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 09:14:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:14:48 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:17:33 pm
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Captial.png
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Captial.png)
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:18:27 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:20:09 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:20:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:21:17 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:21:40 pm
"OBJECTION!"
(I'll assume your speaking for Isos here?)
"And to what exactly do you object Captain?" asks Miss Charity.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:25:20 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:25:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:27:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 09:29:00 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:30:17 pm
"That is for her and those who speak for her to prove, Captain. Now please present the evidence you have against her." Charity speaks with an authoritarian tone.
(The Master I would imagine your evidence for the efim murder will be primarily the means, which she could do, and the hairs/feathers found, along with the original diary. Then you should be able to make a convincing case for the Psycho murder as well.)
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:35:21 pm
Cornbread hurries in to the courtroom, panting silently, sees the trial going on, and stands by the rest of the guards. Captain Otik gives here a look of disproval for being so late, and she bows her head a little in embaressment.
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:37:35 pm
"This is our first piece of evidence, your Honor."
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:40:20 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:41:50 pm
"Objection!"
"On what grounds?"
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:42:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:42:51 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:44:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:45:06 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:47:17 pm
((I'm taking care of that. I'm turning it into a game, using what people are saying as it happens.))
((Then you've got yourself one more supporter. Good luck.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:49:04 pm
"I was not provided a copy of said evidence prior to the trial. I move to have it declared invalid and excluded from this trial."
(Pony justice as stated before does not follow the same rules as our modern justice system. In fact I feel that using terms such as you Honor, and prosecutor, and such are already a step more organized than I had imagined it being. So what I'm getting at, is that what I'm about to say is totally unfair and if you think I'm an asshole for doing so, you are probably right. Sorry.)
"Your objection is overruled. The book is relevant to this case and will be discussed."
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:50:02 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 09:50:38 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:53:12 pm
Cornbread blinks. The evidence presented in this trial seems to be vagualy familiar.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 09:56:16 pm
(Let me know when your ready to continue Dsarker.)
(compound, that is fine. After the prosecutor makes his case I'm going to allow for anypony who wants to say anything, good, bad, evidence, character testimony, anything to get a chance to speak. I expect it to be chaotic and disorganized and that's just how I want it.)
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 09:57:47 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 09:58:07 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 10:00:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 10:05:00 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:12:37 pm
"Well... I uh, skimmed it. But I have read all Khenal's old reports on the case including where he talks about the book." stammers out the guard captain.
Quote
Khenal's Book, Chapter 32
Ingest above! The other guards found Friesden's journal, and I couldn't believe what it contained! The first entries seemed almost manic, exactly what I would expect from a pony who could murder. But, around the middle, the real Dr. Friesden started poking through. Towards the end, it seemed like two ponies were trying to write in the same space, with sentences mashed together and flowing into each other.
"Then go, take two hours and read the diary thoroughly." grumbles Charity, "And Friesden I am aware that you will be claiming temporary insanity, and the diary which I read certainly works as evidence for the insane part. What we still need to see proved, is the temporary part.
Edit: "The meeting is dismissed and the trial will begin again in two hours."
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:13:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 10:14:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 10:15:41 pm
Sometimes justice still gets served, Falcata thinks to herself as she watches Isos lead Friesden into the room.
Already she felt butterflies in her stomach, and the trial hadn't even begun. She'd sat through more trials than she ever cared to remember, none of them happy occasions. At least this time she didn't have a personal stake in the matter.
She blew out a breath to relieve some of her pent up tension and watched the ponies around her. She wanted to see Friesden brought to justice, but she also had a job to do. There was a small chance somepony might lose their cool and do something they might regret, and it was her job to see to it that nopony got hurt. Even Friesden.
That would have to come later when she was convicted for being the murderer she was.
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:16:11 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:17:19 pm
(Does anyone have anything they want to do during this time or may we fast forward?)
Edit: Does anypony else want to take over Isos for this. I'd like it to be someone who's been around awhile, sorry compound. I can do it if no one else will step up, but I'd rather let someone else do it.
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:18:14 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 10:19:50 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:20:23 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:22:00 pm
((THIS IS YOUR CAPTAIN SPEAKING: WELCOME ABOARD THE TROLL EXPRESS! NOW BEGAIN TROOOOLLLING!!!))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:23:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 10:23:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 10:25:06 pm
Edit: Does anypony else want to take over Isos for this. I'd like it to be someone who's been around awhile, sorry compound. I can do it if no one else will step up, but I'd rather let someone else do it.
I wouldn't really feel comfortable taking over Isos and probably don't have time anyway.
I'd say that it should go to Khenal or you.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 10:25:50 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:26:58 pm
"Isos, the floor is yours. Please make your case."
(Any volunteers, or should I?)
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:27:05 pm
Also, compound, like I ALREADY SAID, I'm going to let the open forum part of the trial run for at least one full day real time so more players have an opportunity to post regardless of time zones and schedules. So if you need to leave tonight, you should be able to post your part tomorrow.
((haha, I know, no hury here...I'm just placing holders in case I need to leave soon...))
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 10:28:38 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:29:05 pm
I'd like it to be someone who's been around awhile, sorry compound.
((No prob! ;D Strongbeard, maybe you should take Isos.))
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 10:29:26 pm
Falcata rises to attention as the trial resumes. She is very eager to hear what else Friesden has to say for herself.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:31:10 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:41:44 pm
(Okay, I'm going to take up Isos. This will probably be a wall of text, give me some time to type.)
((Haha, go ahead! I always love a reading challenge!))
((In the words of Loud Whispers...))
I'm put off by the large walls of text... But it is a great read nonetheless. CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!!!
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 10:54:08 pm
“In the beginning of the book, we find the writings of a clearly manic pony.”
She shares a few of the journal entries with the audience. (I will not repeat them here, you may go back and look at them yourself.)
“However,” Isos continues, “as the book progresses, the writing begin to take a different tone. It is as if two ponies are trying to write in the same space.”
She again reads the insane book entries to the audience.
“It is clear that the pony who wrote this book was unhinged, and capable of the crime of murder. One might say to this, that it was mearly a temporary condition, one which she is clearly over now. As she sits here calming defending her crimes. However, I have prepared evidence that she is mearly adapt at hiding the madness within.”
(I'm going to put words in Thunder's mouth now. I hope that's okay with the owner as they haven't joined in any Role Playing other than journal entries and I will attempt to stick to that character as best I can.)
“Thundersplinter please come up here.” Gestures Isos into the crowd.
Thundersplinter walks up and sits next to Isos.
“You and Friesden where both members of the founding 7 of Glitterglen, correct?”-Isos
“That is correct.”-Thunder
“How would you describe your relationship with Friesden before she was arrested.”-Isos
“I thought of her as a friend she had a few quirks but I never would have suspected her of murder.”-Thunder
“What sorts of things did you do together before she was arrested?”-Isos
“Well when we were last together, we where working on a recipe with Ironya for hoof polish.” -Thunder
“And she seemed fine then? Normal?”-Isos
“Yes, she seemed just like any other pony.” -Thunder
“Could any of you who knew her before say different? No, you could not.”-Isos
“You see ladies and gentlecolts, I see only two possibilities at this point. ONE Friesden's diary is a lie to make her seem more mad then she was, so as to play it off as temporary insanity, in the case she was caught or TWO she is somehow able to mask her inner madness, with a veneer of calm normality. Regardless which is the case, she is not safe to let go free.
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 10:56:25 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 11:01:17 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 11:05:49 pm
If Friesden had committed murder, Falcata knew already she was a heartless sociopath. The diary however, as the captain said herself, proved without doubt to Falcata that Friesden was either hopelessly insane or diabolically sinister in her motives and was intelligent enough to feign such insanity.
Her eyes narrow as she looks over the pony chained before her. She would never allow Friesden to go free again. But it wasn't her place to make such a judgement.
She reflexively reaches for her weapon as somepony shouts a confirmation to the captain's assertion, but halts at the lack of any physical outburst. She would do well to keep her eyes on that pony. At least she was a unicorn and nopony would have seen her magically reach for it. It wouldn't do at all for her to start a scene needlessly.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 11:06:58 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 11:07:41 pm
Cornbread stares at the chained prisoner as she delivers her end of the story. Somehow, the pieces don't match up. If Friesden had gone into a temporary moment of insanity, then why wasn't she going into another one of her fits again? Afterall, only potions or the gods could free a pony from insanity. Had Friesden somehow come under divine influence? But if she did, then why...
Post by: KingStrongbeard on November 30, 2011, 11:12:17 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 11:14:30 pm
(I'm tired and need to retire from posting for the night.Dsarker, if you wish to post a rebuttal to the wall of text Isos just laid out feel free to do so.ninja'd. Also, if Khenal, or Dsarker (Or maybe Telgin?) wish to take over Isos, that is fine with me as long as you can try to be unbiased with her portion, I trust you guys to make it interesting. Once Isos makes her case for the murder of Carrot and anyother arguments she needs to make that my tired mind is overlooking, and Friesden gets a chance to counter those arguments, someone may feel free to have Charity open the gates to Chaos.)
((Don't worry...we've got your back...hopefully.))
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 11:17:11 pm
It wouldn't do at all for her to start a scene needlessly.[/i]
((FEEL FREE TO START A SCENE OF INSANITY. YOU HAVE MY APPROVAL.))
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on November 30, 2011, 11:18:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 11:21:22 pm
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 11:22:54 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 11:26:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 11:27:25 pm
Post by: Telgin on November 30, 2011, 11:31:36 pm
Permanent insanity... Falcata wasn't really sure how to peg Friesden there. She certainly appeared to be sane right now. Whether she had ever really been insane, that was the question.
Friesden was articulate and clearly intelligent. It didn't seem to be much of a stretch to believe that she had fabricated the entire bouts of insanity. Although the rest of her argument made sense. It didn't follow why she would murder Carrot after apparently getting away with her first murder. Unless she really was a sociopath who killed when she thought she could get away with it. She wouldn't be the first Falcata had seen.
But then she probably would have killed somepony else before now. Unless that's what she wanted everypony to think...
Falcata shook her head, trying to find a linear path of thought in the circles of madness.
Post by: Khenal on November 30, 2011, 11:45:24 pm
Somehow, though, I believe that Khenal has already guessed what's going to happen.
I have no idea what's going to happen, I'm not good at guessing character drama. When Charity asked how Friesden pleads, I half expected to hear "Guilty on both counts." for the massive anti-climax. At this point, Khenal likely knows what Friesden has planned and will support her, but I have no clue.
Post by: Dsarker on November 30, 2011, 11:51:35 pm
Post by: The Master on November 30, 2011, 11:52:52 pm
I'll just jump back in.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 12:14:42 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 12:16:06 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 12:23:46 am
Captain Isos appears unfazed by Friesden's speech, and continues.
"I have witnesses that call your sanity into question, Friesden. Captain Otik witnessed you go mad just days before the death of Captain Carrot. Captain Otik, if you would tell all gathered here how Friesden went berserk?"
******************
Is Impending Doom around? Or should we just assume Otik's testimony paints a grim picture for Friesden's sanity?
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 12:30:19 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 12:40:03 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 12:51:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 12:53:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 12:58:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 01:02:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 01:44:48 am
"Me, Mister Khenal, an' Miss Friesden were all out in th' jungle, searchin' fer th' deceased. On th' way back, we wos ambushed by a buncha Diomedian bandit-types. They threatened us, an Miss Friesden... she went nuts. Grabbed th' first one by th' neck and twisted 'is cloppin' head right off with 'er bare hooves, then beat 'is buddy to death with it. Took another one as high up as she could fly, an' dove. Smashed 'im into th' ground so hard, he... just kinna wasnae there anymore. Punched th' last one inna face, an' 'is whole head exploded - not crushed, mind ye, exploded. Then she turned on me 'n Mister Khenal, but before she took even a step, she keeled over, dead to th' world."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 01:52:08 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 01:57:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 02:02:36 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:04:51 am
"Rapid mood swings? Changing from ruthless killer to 'sweet filly' in no time at all? That sounds like crazy to me, and dangerously so."
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 02:06:03 am
Regardless, it was hard to take Captain Otik's testimony at face value. Nopony was strong enough to do that, much less somepony like Friesden. But what would Otik gain by lying on Friesden's behalf?
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:07:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 02:10:40 am
((EDIT: derp))
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:12:12 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:14:05 am
Captain Isos glares at Friesden for her withdrawn question, knowing it doesn't need to be answered to sew doubt about Isos' motivation.
"None, for now."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:16:48 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:20:03 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 02:22:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:22:48 am
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 02:24:02 am
Friesden's comment on the beatings struck a nerve, and it took most of Falcata's will to remove the scowl that formed on her face. What did Friesden intend by that remark?
The train of thought was cut off as Khenal was called forward to testify. This was the moment she was really waiting for. What would her former captain have to say for all of this?
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:26:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:27:46 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:36:50 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 02:37:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:38:55 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 02:41:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:43:09 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:47:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:49:15 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 02:52:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 02:54:27 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 02:56:37 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 02:59:14 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 03:03:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:04:27 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 03:07:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:10:52 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 03:13:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 03:13:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:13:56 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 03:18:55 am
"It...very well could have been. The regularity of the hole could certainly been because of the joint between horn and skull, instead of a carefully carved head wound."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:22:27 am
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 03:27:18 am
Edit: Can't spell to save my life these days...
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:29:31 am
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 03:30:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 03:30:43 am
((EDIT: Wait, what? Why me?))
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:32:58 am
Anyway. Thinking up the real name for Friesden's father.
Farquaad, anyone?
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 03:33:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:35:17 am
Compact list of ponies decided as incompetent by the majority of the playerbase.
'Doctor' Alen.
Captain Isos.
))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 03:36:23 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 03:38:44 am
************
I'll take Isos back if you don't want to try to play her, Impending Doom.
Also, Isos is not incompetent. Khenal chose her as his replacement. She's supposed to be calm, collected and by-the-book.
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 03:42:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:42:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 03:45:28 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 03:58:04 am
"Eventually, we found Carrot. He was in bad shape, but still moving, so we hurried back to Glitterglen. Diomedians ambushed us, and you handled them with ease, just as Captain Otik described. You...weren't you, and I tried to get Otik, Carrot and myself away before anything could happen. You collapsed, and I carried you back here."
Captain Isos interrupts me here.
"Khenal, you are forgetting a few details. When you returned from the jungle, you brought her to a cell. You feared she might still be berserk, I heard you mumbling about her eyes. Correct?"
"...Correct. But she is not a danger now!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 01, 2011, 04:01:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:06:05 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:15:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:20:06 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:27:41 am
Captain Isos stands to speak.
"All I heard was that you, Friesden, are unstable and capable of literally rending ponies limb form limb. I respect Khenal, but his opinion is very biased when it comes to you. Do you have any third party to back up his claims of your stability?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 01, 2011, 04:29:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:32:09 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:33:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:35:53 am
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 04:36:09 am
Justice may be served yet.
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:38:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:40:39 am
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:48:08 am
***************
Are we ready to call this for 24 hours to let everypony put in their two bits, or do you have more?
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 04:48:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:51:10 am
((Roger that, continue in the morning.))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 04:55:11 am
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 05:06:49 am
Oh well, guess I'll see where this goes tomorrow. Falcata will probably just keep standing there, feeling smug and confident that Friesden will be convicted. Now, off to update Dawnpick while I wait for another batch of simulator results.))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 03:37:14 pm
if you ever wondered where you would use trigonometry in real life...
Preaching to the chior there, my friend. I got my degree in mechanical engineering recently, so I could show you how to use calculus in real life. Or really blow everyone's mind and give you an application for imaginary numbers. Yes, imaginary numbers have a real world application.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:41:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 03:54:10 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 04:22:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:25:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:27:19 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 04:39:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 04:41:47 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 04:45:08 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 05:04:17 pm
"AHEM." Couth Darkmane loudly coughs. he's wearing an expensive suit, has his wild mane slicked back with a heavy grease and he's even wearing a bowtie.
"Mrs. Charity, I think the court has a pretty weighed opinion on Friesden, but I am not really convinced it was a singular murderer just yet. I would like to ask Khenal a few questions, please."
((Fix'd sorta))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:08:13 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:11:12 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 05:24:48 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 05:26:55 pm
"I'm sorry, I don't think I ever got your name. And I believe Captain Isos would like to talk to you after the trial, since I never did get to hear you out at the hospital."
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 05:37:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:37:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 05:40:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:46:16 pm
"Very well. Starkey, you are dismissed."
"Not so soon. Starkey, you know who I want."))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:49:17 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 05:50:48 pm
((Mind if I ruin the seriousness of the trial with Psycho popping in?))
((Exactly somewhat what I was talking about.))
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 05:51:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:51:44 pm
Oooooh! Best idea for a twist.
We're all near the end of the trial, everypony has found Friesden guilty, and she's awaiting her sentence.
Psycho Carrot bursts in, alive and well. "Hey guys, what's happening?"
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 05:52:39 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:52:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:55:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:56:00 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 05:56:28 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:56:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:57:29 pm
"OBJECTION!"))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:58:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 05:58:40 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 05:58:59 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 05:59:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 05:59:32 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 01, 2011, 05:59:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:00:16 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:00:19 pm
((Didn't see the above comment, my apologies, everyone.))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:01:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 06:04:05 pm
((No. Khenal saw Carrot die. That stays. GET IT THROUGH YOUR SKULL, PSYCHO CARROT IS A BOY!! Everything is worked out.))Yay, Now people can think Carrot is a girl and stop thinking Khenal is one :P
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 06:04:27 pm
EDIT; and yeah, Psycho Carrot is dead, but this is GLITTERGLEN we're talking about! ))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:04:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:04:58 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:05:05 pm
((No. Khenal saw Carrot die. That stays. GET IT THROUGH YOUR SKULL, PSYCHO CARROT IS A BOY!! Everything is worked out.))Yay, Now people can think Carrot is a girl and stop thinking Khenal is one :P
((I may need to reread the genders of these ponies...I'd always thought Khenal was a guy...))
((FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU We're getting derailed!!!!!))
((Yeah, I'm gonna switch back to topic now.))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:05:35 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:06:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:07:01 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:07:33 pm
((KHENAL IS A GUY!! GOOD LORD!!!!))
((Alright! Okay, just pm me about it...))
((The only major ponies who are girls are Friesden, Kil, Isos, and Otik. Everyone else is male))
((My god...I thought Otik and Isos were...nvm. Thank's for clearing that up, Dsarker.))
((And now, back to the courtroom.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:08:23 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:09:31 pm
((Charity = Totally a boy's name.))
((PM me if I screw up with the genders, please. Now, as I said, back to the courtroom. :P Boss!))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:09:52 pm
All of a sudden, Friesden feels a slap hit her in the face.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:11:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:12:23 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 01, 2011, 06:12:57 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:13:22 pm
((I'm joking. Charity is female.))
((...-___-
ENOUGH WITH THE TROLLING!!! :P))
((That does it.))
All of a sudden, Friesden feels a slap hit her in the face.
((Now, imagine that happening only as a stab.
Suddenly we start to have ghostly assassinations.))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:13:34 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:14:53 pm
((http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=V2P11pU3yo0#t=118s stop making me shoot myself...))
((FAKE!!! happens to be the most popular comment.))
We're waiting on Impending Doom so I can question Starkey.
((Starkey? Starkey is a guy, right?))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 06:16:01 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:17:30 pm
Is there a open pony for this? Would be willing to join if there is. One with a horn, wings are options. :P
Yep, you've got lots of options to choose from.The format for submittion of pony request is, according to Impending Doom, "I'd like to claim X kind of pony with Y job, name him/her Z." Somewhat along those lines.
AND WELCOME TO GLITTERGLEN! ENJOY YOUR STAY!
Or for DNVO to do his thing, unless I missed it in the 50 or so posts from the last few min. Also, there should be lots of ponies to choose from still. You might want to choose a profession, or else StrongBeard might make you a lye maker or something silly :P
((IGNORED))
Post by: Pokon on December 01, 2011, 06:22:59 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 06:31:00 pm
" first question! " Couth shouted with some animosity.
" Do you or do you not have a key to the armory? could you possibly attain a crossbow in an emergency?"
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 06:32:50 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 01, 2011, 06:32:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:33:58 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 06:38:15 pm
"of course, but could you have access to a crossbow in the time-frame of about oh, let's say a day before Mayor Charity's assassination attempt?"
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:38:49 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:39:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:39:51 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 01, 2011, 06:40:01 pm
"It is true," Captain Otik says. "As Captain of The Skyguard, I served by Khenal, and when she left, I myself made sure the keys were properly passed on."
OH MAH GAWD IT'S A HE!
bBubbles is saying that.
EDIT: Gotz to Goh! be back in about 10 hours, don't pull any shenanigans while i'm gone.
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 06:41:20 pm
"Yes, I was still Captain then."
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 06:42:31 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:43:53 pm
When HE left. HE. Khenal is MALE.
((PM me, damnit! I can't keep track of all these posts...))
(( it's going to be a shenaniocolypse))
((TROLOLOLO! :P))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:46:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 06:47:39 pm
(( it's going to be a shenaniocolypse))
((Seems inevitable at this point. I'm pretty lost at the moment, hanging back to watch the fireworks for now.))
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:50:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:51:58 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 06:52:46 pm
Friesden looks around for whoever is slapping her.
((Behind you. Watch OUT! It'S-))
Smack!
((See, this is what we ponies call "mental discipline."))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:54:40 pm
Friesden sees nothing at all that could of possibly caused it. She does notice, however, a filly tugging at her hair.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:55:27 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 06:58:19 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 06:58:28 pm
"Next question; this one's directed to Mrs. Charity. could you describe your relationship with Khenal? was your office, lets say, 'always open' to him in case of an emergency? could he have set a crossbow trap?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 06:59:58 pm
Friesden turns to the out of check pony.
"I'm sorry, you did mention a motive for Khenal attempting to kill the duchess at some point, didn't you?"
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 07:02:35 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:02:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 07:06:00 pm
Tears of relief are coming down her face. "You..."
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:06:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 07:08:34 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 07:08:42 pm
" The motive is so simple it behooves us. Love and Power. Love and Power always turns ponies against ponies. If Mayor charity had -gods forbid- died in the assassination, who would take her place? somepony who's been climbing the political ladder? somepony we all love and admire? somepony like-
*glances at Khenal*
"Khenal?"
"And IF Khenal WERE to become Mayor - it would make getting his lover, Friesden, out of the punishment she deserves, rather simple dosen't it? As Mayor Khenal could have freed her with a single penstroke! Making this whole trial moot!"
He smiles so wide the edges of his mouth touched his ears.
"But you, Of all ponies, should have known! Should have known justice is not blind to your evils!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 07:09:43 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 07:09:44 pm
((haha, my post was supposed to go before yours, dsarker.))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:10:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 07:12:16 pm
((Also, continuing to be a male :P))
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 07:12:40 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 07:14:56 pm
"Master," Cornbread begans, but is cut off by Otik.
"And what about me? If I end up giving up my position, does that automatically count me as a suspect? And my trainee, Cornbread, who has only just begun her duty as a skyguard, who has access to crossbows everyday!"
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:23:25 pm
"Shhh...i'm going to scare Khenal now..." And with that, the filly sneaks over to Khenal.
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 07:25:11 pm
"When Charity was recovering from the hospital the only thing keeping you and your men from slitting her throat was Psycho Carrot and his squad! and look who ends up dead in self defense?"
" also, you couldn't arm a trap, but my good friend and your patsy Nicolta Tesla could. I bet he would love to be a witness and tell all sorts of nasty secrets about you, but he mysteriously fell of a cliff weeks ago."
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:27:54 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 07:28:46 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 07:33:12 pm
((is it getting hot in this fort or is it just me?))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 07:33:34 pm
"So, he fell off a cliff? Strange, I never did figure out how he ended up in the cavern. I guess it must drain there. How did you know he fell off a cliff, Darkmane? If you witnessed it, it seems like something you should have said immediately after the act so we could catch the culprit."
Captain Isos stands and starts walking towards Darkmane.
"I think we need to talk after the trial. Unless you have something relevant to this trial to say, please follow the guards."
**************
Nicolta is also a guy. I find all the gender confusion hilarious, by the way :D
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:36:17 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 07:46:42 pm
((Where to?))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 07:51:42 pm
Captain Isos jumps and turns to see who would pull such a poorly thought out prank.
*****************
A holding cell, most likely. Though, this would be the time for Darkmane to make his escape if he's going to. I'd imagine all eyes are on the little filly at the moment.
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 07:56:53 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 07:58:52 pm
Nicolta is also a guy. I find all the gender confusion hilarious, by the way :D
((Same here.))
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 07:59:43 pm
"YOU SEE PONIES? YOU SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU GET TOO CLOSE TO THE TRUTH IN THIS FORTRESS?" Couth shouts, trying to appeal to the public.
"I saw you push Nicolta off that cliff, I saw you push Carrot off that courtyard tower, and said nothing, because you held all the cards. well not here! here the ponies decide! not you!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:02:22 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:02:57 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:03:34 pm
"Couth you say you SAW Khenal kill Carrot and try to kill Nicolta? Is this true? Can you swear to me that what you say is true?"
Post by: DVNO on December 01, 2011, 08:04:17 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:05:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 08:06:53 pm
"How dare you accuse me of killing my friend!"
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 08:07:33 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:08:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:09:22 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 08:15:26 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 08:15:45 pm
((Erm, so I guess the hospital is really on fire then? Would that be visible on the way?))
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:18:16 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:18:28 pm
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 08:19:11 pm
((I'm gonna make Cornbread rush after Couth. Anyone stopping me?))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 08:19:25 pm
"I'm... ready, if you are. Are you sure you want me to do this?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:22:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:24:09 pm
((Dsarker, you're a genius.))
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 08:24:40 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 08:24:46 pm
((I'm gonna make Cornbread rush after Couth. Anyone stopping me?))
((Falcata certainly wouldn't let Cornbread come between her and stuffing Darkmane in a cell. Duchess' orders and all. Not that you can't try, of course))
Falcata leads Darkmane from the makeshift courtroom into the hallway beyond. A curious tingling odor brushes her nostrils. Did somepony burn some bread?
Post by: compoundoverkillcornbread on December 01, 2011, 08:26:12 pm
Her nostrils start to tingle. She sniffs the air. Something must be burning.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:26:30 pm
"LISTEN TO ME! Ah forgot it..." A green mist comes out of the filly and proceeds to waft towards Khenal.
((Dsarker, you're a genius.))
Well, of course! But what in particular was my stroke of genius this time?
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 08:26:55 pm
"I hope you've learned to respect my memories, Carrot."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:27:33 pm
Charity jumps atop her marble table, her horn glowing bright. "Khenal! That filly is possessed! Quick you must help me bind the deamon."
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:29:52 pm
"Wow it's roomy...Uh...I'm Psycho Carrot...sorta."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:33:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 08:34:23 pm
"It is Carrot, Duchess. Deceased ponies do not always stay away, you remember the ghost of Lolum? Carrot is just a bit more...proactive in letting ponies know that something is troubling him. I think he has something he needs to say."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:37:42 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:38:22 pm
"Indeed. I'm back everypony, FROM THE DEAD! I can tell you EXACTLY, in DETAIL, what happened at the scene of my death."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 08:38:37 pm
The ghostly chains fly forth and wrap around Khenal and the "deamon" binding the spirit in place.
"On the chance that this isn't a trick. I will hear you out, but you are not leaving here until I'm sure of what you are spirit."
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 08:42:29 pm
Post by: Toady One on December 01, 2011, 08:45:22 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:49:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:50:57 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 08:54:20 pm
"Lieu-tenant Psycho CARROOOOOT! I've had just about enough of you and your ridiculous dying business!"
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 08:55:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 08:57:06 pm
She does look a bit put out that she is still chained down and thus unable to join the 'welcome back' hug.
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 09:02:47 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 09:03:56 pm
"Oh, buck!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 09:07:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:08:11 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:09:06 pm
"Let...go...please...OW! there goes the ribs..."
'Yeah...your ribs are going to need to be looked at again...'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 09:10:12 pm
(("I find the defendant not guilty! All charges are dismissed!" Is that the sort of abuse you don't want me to do?))
(Yeah, and try to keep her within the established character I've tried to give her. You'll be fine, I trust you.)
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 09:11:10 pm
Starkey releases Khenal/Carrot.
"Ah, that's not exactly true, ma'am. I went to ask him if there was anypony in the guard he thought might go over his head to carry out an order."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:12:25 pm
"Wait, so you didn't suspect Khenal? Why?"
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:15:30 pm
"HOLD IT! I can tell you that Friesden did INDEED kill me. BUT, it was self defense." He pauses for dramatic effect.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 09:15:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:18:46 pm
"Carrot...captain, we're here to determine if she is safe. Whether she murdered you or not is not the resl question." replies the Duchess.
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:21:38 pm
"Oh...NO. Don't you DARE ignore me, Friesden. Kindly explain to everypony what REALLY happened, or I shall." says Khenal/Carrot sternly.
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 09:23:56 pm
'Yeah...your ribs are going to need to be looked at again...'
((Hope Dr. Bubbles can work in a !!hospital!! or do it in the courtroom, heh. Did I read that Nicolta Tesla was currently in the !!hospital!!?)
Falcata gallops down to the entrance to the hospital, heart pounding. She rounds the corner and sees flames engulfing several piles of sheets placed strategically throughout the room. The smoke is beginning to get quite thick now. She takes a deep breath and steps inside, checking for any patients still in their beds.
((Whoops, left Darkmane in the hallway. What to do with him? Think he'd just be nice and stay still while she's busy being a hero?))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 09:25:13 pm
'Please Carrot, just be patient.'
**************
Also, couldn't resist a new sig.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:26:20 pm
"I killed you. That is what happened. We are trying to establish that I am still safe. Your interruptions are not helping, as much as you may think they are. Please wait until I am ready to direct questions to you."
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:28:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:29:48 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 09:35:01 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:39:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 09:42:43 pm
Also, couldn't resist a new sig.
((Yay!))
The smoke was stinging her eyes and beginning to make it difficult to breathe, but through the thickening fumes Falcata made out a single pony lying uncoscious in bed. She scrabbled forward, and using all of the magical might she could muster hefted him onto her back. She steadied the unicorn on her back as best she could between violent smoke-choked coughs and staggered back into the hallway.
((I presume nopony else was in the hospital? And still not sure what to do with Darkmane... seems like a good opportunity to do something underhanded. Like run away at the very least))
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 09:44:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:51:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:52:03 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:54:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 09:55:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 09:56:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 09:57:19 pm
"Guards, restrain the prisoner, if you would." orders Charity.
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 10:00:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 10:04:34 pm
'You are lucky you didn't hurt anypony. You don't know how to do magic, so leave it alone!'
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 10:06:21 pm
She leans against the wall and takes a number of deep breaths to clear her lungs. She had no clue if Tesla was alright, but there was no time to waste, she had to tell everypony! There was no sign of Darkmane, but with the smoke surrounding them he could be right next to her and she'd never see him. She coughed again and trotted back toward the courtroom as fast as she could maintain.
((I'll leave it that way. Now he can be a good pony and stay put, or do whatever he wants. This could conceivably take as long as you guys want, so I'll defer Falcata bursting in and ruining the fun until you're ready))
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 10:06:53 pm
"This will be over soon, one way or t'other." Friesden says.
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 10:09:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 10:10:21 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 10:12:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 10:12:58 pm
"Yes, Miss Friesden, I suppose you could say I trusted my gut."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 10:14:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 10:15:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 10:19:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 10:21:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 10:26:45 pm
"My gut tells me that Khenal would not lie if somepony's life were at stake, and that you would never willfully harm somepony without due cause."
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 10:28:00 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 01, 2011, 10:32:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 10:42:48 pm
"Commander Starkey, has your gut ever been wrong?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 10:48:43 pm
"...once, ma'am."
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 10:53:32 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 10:55:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 11:02:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:04:28 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 11:12:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:13:52 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 11:15:32 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 11:16:36 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 11:17:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:18:33 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 01, 2011, 11:23:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:26:43 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 11:29:28 pm
Charity looks out at the now significantly emptier hall. Those ponies who did not run when the green ghost appeared are still here and have calmed down, but a number of civilians have already left.
"Of course Friesden. If they are still here, feel free to call your next witness."
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 11:30:08 pm
**************
Nice out-maneuver there. Isos would have to attack Starkey's character now, and she knows that simply won't work.
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:31:29 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 11:43:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:43:56 pm
Post by: The Master on December 01, 2011, 11:45:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 01, 2011, 11:48:28 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 01, 2011, 11:49:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 01, 2011, 11:56:03 pm
WHY DO YOU BRING ME FORTH, MOR- Friesden. I should have known. Why am I here? Do you wish to boast? To mock me?
The words are not so much spoken, as written into the brains of all those listening, bypassing the ears entirely.
"No, daemon. I have called you because I am under sentence of death."
Very well. I will destroy the crowd and free you now, the-
"No, you merely have to answer questions truthfully."
Hmmm... Keeper, update me!
A green swirl of smoke swirls from Khenal's mouth, before touching Starkey's mouth and disappearing.
A trial. Novel concept. Very well, you may ask your questions.
"Good. Tell me, what was Èfim?"
I believe the common term you ponies use is 'filly-fiddler', for some hellforsaken reason.
"What species?"
Alicorn.
"How can you tell?"
Alicorns have an incredibly unique magical aura, especially for those who have been bound by them.
"So you could recognise the difference between two alicorns?"
As easily as you could between black and white.
"Did you recognise Èfim's aura? Who he was?"
Yes, of course. He was y-
"Simple yes would do perfectly there."
You ponies are all the same. I don't love all of them, of course, but you all think the same things. 'No, we don't need context'. How do you think I could trick so many ponies before now? Lying is a fool's game. The truth can trick people oh so much more easily. And it is far more enjoyable. But you. You just tell lies to get people to believe you, you ponies. Checking whether it was self defence in Carrot's death but not in that of the 'diomedians'? How do you know they weren't simply a delegation from the Rainbows? Otik doesn't like the diomedians. How can you trust her word in that? Khenal loves Friesden. How can you trust his word in this? Oh, that's right. Because Diomedians are the 'enemy'. Why? Because they always have been. Is that how you sleep at night, captain? Calling those militiaponies you helped beat to death 'the enemy'? And now, now you've decided that Friesden is the enemy. The truth is no matter to you. Only that she dies. And you ponies call yourself a gentle race. A kind race.
"Simply answer the questions, daemon. Your editorials are not required. Were you possessing me on the day of Èfim's death?"
Yes. Of course I blessed well was. I've been possessing you since before you were born.
"Really? Why?"
I was bound to you by that blessed alicorn.
"Sorry, which alicorn?"
Èfim. Of course, he didn't go by Èfim those days. He used Farquaad.
"So, this would have made you angry?"
Incredib- Ah, I see what you're trying here. Sorry, I did not kill Èfim. Neither did you, but that's by the by. No, it was the Doctor who did that. You still hid in your mind at that time. Now can I give these ponies a context?
"Very well."
Farquaad and Èfim were the same pony. He bound me into you before your birth. He was your father. He raped you repeatedly. Average of twice a week, if not more. He beat you, abused you. All only because you were unable to react because of my possession of you. And then I broke free. I tried to kill him, but he bound me into your mother, which put you back into control. Prior to that, you'd hid in your imagination, conjuring up fantasies. You -broke-. All according to my plan. With the scalpel you had to hand, you charged at your father, intending to kill him. You were utterly insane, beyond all measure. I moved your mother into the way and received partial freedom for a time when she died. You chased your father up to his upper room. He locked the doors and called the guards. When they came, they restrained you and freed your father. After that, they punished him for his crimes and sent you to an asylum. We escaped, and only Khenal and that blasted daemon who had possessed Carrot survived besides us. We lived on the streets. We came here. You lost control at your father's presence, and your other mind, the Doctor, decided to harvest his wings against your will. Of course, she had to kill him first, so she did. You were caught, landed in gaol, escaped to deal with Carrot's daemon, and that is all I know. Any further questions?
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:01:07 am
'YOU!'
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:03:19 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:08:23 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 12:09:40 am
"Woah there, Carrot!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:11:44 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:20:42 am
'Aw come on! I could've taken him!' He whines.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:25:48 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 12:36:08 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:42:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:46:11 am
Very well then. I go to my sleep. Wake me not again unless you come to end this existence.
Starkey returns to his typical pose, and the flames disappear. A little dazed, he slowly makes his way back into the crowd.
"Now, of course, my fourth witness. Carrot, if you would."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 12:47:40 am
lock Schmoe away inside something adamantine!'(There is a very nice Adamantine dagger in the room.)
Edit: Question Dsarker. When Schmoe is talking through Starkey, is it obvious he's being possessed? Speaking without moving his mouth, demonic glow, impossible voice, etc. or does he appear to just be a pony sitting there talking?
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 12:50:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:52:30 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:53:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 12:53:34 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 12:56:13 am
**************
I like to think that Isos is just staring, dumbfounded, at Starkey.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 12:56:55 am
((Firstly, he's speaking without actual sound, merely writing his words into the brains of everypony listening, secondly he's standing on his hind legs, and thirdly his forehooves are wreathed in flame.))
(Oh I see, yes that will do. *Mentally takes the idea of Charity deciding that Starkey could possibly be lying to protect Friesden and crumples it up and tosses it in the trash.*)
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 12:57:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:03:00 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 01:04:53 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:08:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:09:45 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 01:10:26 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 01:11:15 am
'She meant for you to say something only you'd know.'
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:11:51 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 01:13:38 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:14:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:14:44 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 01:15:31 am
(Edit: I don't actually know what Carrot could do to prove this. Maybe he could tell something about Kil that only he would know that she could confirm?)
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:18:06 am
Khenal's eyes change to Carrot's color, and booms in Carrot's voice, "I AM MOTHERBUCKING PSYCHO CARROT, AND I SAY THAT FRIESDEN IS NOT A MURDERER!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:28:38 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:31:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:32:37 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 01:33:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:34:08 am
"I'll admit, if this really is Khenal's trickery he really knows how to sound like the Psycho we all knew and tolerated." sighs Charity.
I see what you did there.
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:35:30 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 01:37:23 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:43:55 am
Post by: Starnight on December 02, 2011, 01:47:24 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 01:48:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 01:49:01 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 01:58:30 am
The courtroom shakes rapidly for a moment.
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 02:01:31 am
'I am going to bucking ki... right, he's already dead'
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 02:04:02 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 02:05:34 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 02:06:53 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
"Then Friesden, are you ready too..." Charity's sentence is cut short as the rumbling begins. Then the pillar falls, Charity jumps and runs to the corner farthest from said pillar.
(I would like to point out that the area above the room we are in is the "pipeline" for the forts water supply and Ironya's bedroom. So Psycho is either going to drown us all or Ironya's gonna kill him again. Depending on the source of the material for that pillar.)
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 02:06:53 am
"NOW DO YOU BUCKING BELIEVE ME?!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 02:10:00 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 02:11:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 02:11:54 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 02:12:42 am
(Perhaps now would be a good time for Falcata to show up and yell, "Fire!"?)
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 02:15:19 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 02:18:34 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 02:19:15 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 02:23:05 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 02:26:29 am
Falcata stands there panting. "!!Fire!! The Hospital is on Fire! I pulled Nicolta free but we need to put the fire out now!" Then without waiting to see anyponies response she grabs a bucket and fills it in the public shower in the dinning hall and rushes off.
Post by: Starnight on December 02, 2011, 02:30:30 am
(Starnight. I notice you only registered today? Did you find us from FIMfiction.net?)No, I can't remember where I found this thread, because, for some reason, I never remember where I find stuff. Except MLP. I know I found this before it reached 100 pages. I only just worked up the courage to register, and I just now remembered how awkward I am at talking to people, and thats only made worse by the fact its 11:31 PM.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 02:31:47 am
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 02:32:36 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 02:35:34 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 02:38:33 am
(Starnight. I notice you only registered today? Did you find us from FIMfiction.net?)No, I can't remember where I found this thread, because, for some reason, I never remember where I find stuff. Except MLP. I know I found this before it reached 100 pages. I only just worked up the courage to register, and I just now remembered how awkward I am at talking to people, and thats only made worse by the fact its 11:31 PM.
Fair enough. I only asked because it was a little suspicious that a newly registered individual was wanting to join only a few hours after we had a troll banned. But I'm willing to let you join in anyway. I just have to trust that it's a coincidence.
So, do you have a preference for what kind of pony you would like to claim. I mean it would be really awkward to introduce your character in the middle of Friesden's trial but we could go ahead and pick out a pony for you, if you would like.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:23:45 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:29:16 am
Hmmm, it might be easier on us (probably not on you, though :P if the OP was updated with a list of unclaimed ponies, possibly with a break down in gender, type, and profession, if that would be doable.
That is an entirely reasonable thing to want to have, however, I've been putting off doing it because well. 109 ponies to list is a lot and since Dwarf Therapist doesn't show castes or genders properly I have to check every single one in game. But I guess I'll get started on that now. Yay. Will post again when finished.
(Also, why is everypony so quiet? No pony wants to jump up and fight the fire? No heroes is Glitterglen?)
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:31:41 am
I'm thinking I might take a break from Friesden for a bit after the trial, or permanently, I guess, if it goes the wrong way.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:38:50 am
I'm kind of tied up...haha... At the moment.
(What you did. It's their, and I see it.)
(Still nopony. Fine I will the hero!)
"A fire! Buck it. We'll finish this business later." Charity jumps to her hooves and runs over to the showers. She fills as many buckets with water as her magic can carry and lifts one more with her mouth, her hair is made wet by the water as she fills the last one. She looks over at Khenal and says, through a mouth full of bucket, "cmn Khal we nee yo hep. Gib a buket"* and she starts making her way to the door.
*Come on Khenal, we need your help. Grab a bucket.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:43:50 am
Not even a hero, either.
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 03:48:18 am
I blink a few times as I exit my mindscape, trying to focus on reality once more. The trial is the last thing on everypony's mind right now, as everypony tries to deal with the fire. I decide to forgo a bucket, and instead gather about a barrel's worth of water with my magic and follow Charity.
**********
Khenal was a bit distracted by Carrot potentially driving him insane.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:53:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:56:22 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 04:00:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:03:43 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 04:16:37 am
I walk over and nuzzle Friesden, trying to cheer her up some.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:20:37 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 04:31:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:44:18 am
Through the Failed Jungles over fen and field where the long grass grows
The West Wind comes walking, and about the walls it goes
"What news from the West, O wandering wind, do you bring me tonight?
Have you seen Friesden the Fair by moon or by starlight?"
"I saw her ride over seven streams; over waters wide and grey;
I saw her walk in empty lands, until she passed away
Into the shadows of the North. I saw her then no more.
The North Wind may have heard the song of the scion of Farquaad yore."
"O Friesden! From the high walls westward I looked afar,
But you came not from the empty lands where no ponies are."
Mayhaps when this is over, you will know."
Post by: Darkening Kaos on December 02, 2011, 04:52:21 am
ThunderSplinter helps in the bucket brigade, cursing as each bed burns to ash, she hopes none of her master work beds were there.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 05:13:31 am
"Uhm...hello you two."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 05:17:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:20:35 am
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 05:38:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:40:31 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on December 02, 2011, 05:42:28 am
One pony is listed as both Royal and Pegasan.
A tranny, or just undecided?
Darkening Kaos, CIS, LUH.}}
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 05:45:37 am
Oh yes, Bubbles can work in a ‼hospital‼
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 05:53:00 am
One pony is listed as both Royal and Pegasan.
Sorry about that. I fixed it. He is indeed a Royal.
Edit: Also, thank you for volunteering to help organize the list.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:06:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:35:49 am
1. Male Earthpony Legendary Armorer, Married to Isos, see semi-claimed ponies.
2. Male earthpony legendary butcher
3. Male earthpony furnace operator
4. Male Earthpony woodcutter
5. Male earthpony butcher
6. Male earthpony farmer
7. Male earthpony tanner
8. Male earthpony miller
9. Male earthpony elite markspony
10. Female Earthpony Legendary Armorer/woodburner
11. Female Earthpony legendary stonecarver
12. Female earthpony legendary cook
13. Female earthpony dyer
14. Female earthpony mechanic
15. Female earthpony metal crafter
16. Female earthpony thresher
17. Female earthpony planter
18. Female earthpony axepony has the title “The Pleated Pillar of Silkiness”
19. istig female earthpony hammerer (killed a few valuable members of Glitterglen during the smuggling incident.)
20. Male pegasus Legendary chef
21. Odur Male pegasus blacksmith
22. Male pegasan dyer
23. Male pegasan lye maker
24. Male pegasus woodburner
25. Male pegasus fisherpony
26. Male pegasus fisherpony
27. Male pegasan spearpony
28. Male pegasan axepony
29. Male pegasan macepony
30. Female pegasus legendary woodcarver
31. Female pegasus farmer, wife of Osal (see semi-Claimed ponies.)
32. Female pegasus hauler, could mood into jewler
33. Female pegasus fish dissector
34. Female pegasus siege operator
35. female pegasan markspony
36. Female pegasan markspony
37. Male unicorn hauler, could mood into weaponsmith.
38. Male unicorn siege operator
39. Male unicorn presser
40. Male Unicorn Hammerpony/legendary weaver
41. Ramol Male unicorn spearpony, and a badass.
42. Female unicorn Legend bonecarver and broker
43. Female unicorn legendary glazer
44. Female Unicorn Clothes maker, makes a lot of dresses to sell to the caravans.
45. Female Unicorn glassmaker/nurse
46. Female unicorn butcher
47. Female unicorn woodburner
48. Female unicorn siege engineer
49. Female unicorn lasher
50. Female unicorn ranger/markspony
51. Female unicorn wrestler
52. Male Royal mason/engraver
53. Male Royal markspony
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:52:51 am
"From the mouths of the Sea the South Wind flies, from the sandhills and the stones;
The wailing of the gulls it hears, and at the gate it moans.
"What news from the South, O sighing wind, do you bring to me at eve?
Where now is Friesden the Tall? She tarries and I grieve."
"Ask not of me where she doth dwell- so many bones there lie
On the white shores and the dark shores under the stormy sky;
So many have passed down Bleachedroot to find the flowing sea.
Ask of the North Wind news of them the North Wind sends to me!"
"O Friesden! Beyond the gate the seaward road runs south,
But you came not with the wailing gulls from the grey sea's mouth." "
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 07:58:35 am
Post by: Starnight on December 02, 2011, 12:42:12 pm
I only asked because it was a little suspicious that a newly registered individual was wanting to join only a few hours after we had a troll banned.(Starnight. I notice you only registered today? Did you find us from FIMfiction.net?)No, I can't remember where I found this thread, because, for some reason, I never remember where I find stuff. Except MLP. I know I found this before it reached 100 pages. I only just worked up the courage to register, and I just now remembered how awkward I am at talking to people, and thats only made worse by the fact its 11:31 PM.
So, do you have a preference for what kind of pony you would like to claim. I mean it would be really awkward to introduce your character in the middle of Friesden's trial but we could go ahead and pick out a pony for you, if you would like.
Yeah, I know I picked an odd time to join. But, about the pony, I think I'll take the Female pegasus hauler, #32 on the list. Name her Starnight.
Post by: HiritconOvermindGibbross on December 02, 2011, 01:34:22 pm
I'm not sure which i want to take. :D
Named HOG :D
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 02:10:21 pm
Now that the fire is out, Falcata first ensures that Kris wasn't caught up in either the fire or the carnage of extinguishing it. Fortunately she was a smart filly and stayed well clear of it all. Falcata sends her home before the sentencing concludes, in the off chance that things did get violent then.
She wanders back to the courtroom and resumes her post in time to see Friesden and Khenal exchange potential farewells. Having missed the entirety of the chaos Carrot brought about, she can only speculate what evidence had been brought forth that would convince Friesden that she was doomed.
She mentally shrugged. It didn't matter, there wasn't anything she could think of that would have saved the mare anyway. She felt pleasantly satisfied that Friesden would be getting what was coming to her. Yet, the emotional pain plastered on Khenal's face was unsettling. Whether Khenal really thought Friesden was innocent or not, he clearly felt for her, and losing a loved one was something she could relate to.
She blew out her breath and nervously tried to brush some of the soot from her fur. At least it would fall to Captain Isos to actually dispense the punishment, whatever it was.
((Speaking of which, I think I read, oh, 150 pages ago that there was no death penalty. Kind of curious what would be a suitable punishment if she is convicted))
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 03:12:46 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:14:19 pm
((Speaking of which, I think I read, oh, 150 pages ago that there was no death penalty. Kind of curious what would be a suitable punishment if she is convicted))
(I don't quite remember that. But if it was stated then I would say the worst they could do is to be banished from the fortress, into either the caverns (effective death sentence) or into the Failed Jungles (Also, a likely death sentence) likely with out any weapons, leaving them to fend for themselves. But I don't think that'll happen to Friesden at this point. Charity's seen demons in the fort before so it isn't a stretch for her to believe that Friesden could have been possessed when she killed efim, and Psycho living through death isn't exactly unheard of either, and neither is him going crazy so self defense seems almost probable.)
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:14:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 03:32:09 pm
((Speaking of which, I think I read, oh, 150 pages ago that there was no death penalty. Kind of curious what would be a suitable punishment if she is convicted))
(I don't quite remember that. But if it was stated then I would say the worst they could do is to be banished from the fortress, into either the caverns (effective death sentence) or into the Failed Jungles (Also, a likely death sentence) likely with out any weapons, leaving them to fend for themselves.
Nopony right out said there wasn't a death penalty, but Starkey said that we "don't butcher eachother and call it justice" way back when Friesden was going loopy in her cell after murdering Efim. In context, he was telling Carrot to back off, so it's open to interpretation a bit.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:50:56 pm
Edit: I'm going to take a nap now, and have my GURPS game until late tonight. So if you guys want to play out more of the trial, now or tonight, somepony reasonable, (Not you Master) feel free to take up Charity's role.
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 03:52:11 pm
((Speaking of which, I think I read, oh, 150 pages ago that there was no death penalty. Kind of curious what would be a suitable punishment if she is convicted))
(I don't quite remember that. But if it was stated then I would say the worst they could do is to be banished from the fortress, into either the caverns (effective death sentence) or into the Failed Jungles (Also, a likely death sentence) likely with out any weapons, leaving them to fend for themselves.
Nopony right out said there wasn't a death penalty, but Starkey said that we "don't butcher eachother and call it justice" way back when Friesden was going loopy in her cell after murdering Efim. In context, he was telling Carrot to back off, so it's open to interpretation a bit.
((Ah, yes that sounds like what I was thinking of. So much has happened in Glitterglen it all gets lost in the details))
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:55:25 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 03:57:23 pm
I'm going to take a break from Friesden no matter the punishment or lack of one.))
Will you be leaving the thread altogether Dsarker, or just giving up Friesden and getting yourself a new pony?
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 03:58:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 04:01:30 pm
Hmmm... Keeper, update me!
A green swirl of smoke swirls from Khenal's mouth, before touching Starkey's mouth and disappearing.
I just realized, this right here bodes very poorly for the opinion most ponies are likely to have for Khenal. I'm pretty sure Charity might know about Keeper, but everypony else? It certainly looks like Khenal is doing information gathering for a very powerful daemon.
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 04:04:19 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 04:05:20 pm
(Not you Master)And just why not? That's a bit prejudice, don't you think?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 04:10:37 pm
(Not you Master)And just why not? That's a bit prejudice, don't you think?
(Sigh, I keep trying to go to sleep and they keep pulling me back in.
Master, do I really, REALLY, need to explain why? Is it not obvious? It isn't anything personal, it's just that when you control somepony they tend to be a little... overenthusiastic. And I'd rather not be rereading this thread in the future and have this one part where Charity jumps from being more or less calm and collected, to being a screaming sociopath. It's nothing personal.)
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 04:13:51 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 02, 2011, 04:20:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:21:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 04:30:37 pm
I think we're about down to Charity rendering her verdict anyway, so it'd feel a bit weird to have somebody play her for that part.
((Agreed. The final statement should come from KingStrongbeard I think.))
Quote from: KingStrongbeard
(I see your point Khenal but, I disagree I don't think we're quite their yet. Friesden was trying to question Psycho's Ghost, before the fire, and Charity was about to allow it. Should Psycho return, Friesden can still question him. Also, Isos might want to cross question the spirit, try to make it trip up perhaps on the off chance it isn't actually Psycho you know. Then I guess we could let the audience have their chance to say anything they want. Give the quieter players, Thundersplinter, Falcata, etc. a chance to make a speech voicing their opinions. We get some closing statements from Friesden and Isos, then Charity makes her ruling. At least that's what I would think you guys could do since I won't be online for a while. Okay, gone now, for real this time.)
((Makes sense. Kind of wish Falcata had something useful to say, but she wasn't a witness. She'd probably only really be useful as a character witness to Khenal, but I don't think Charity or Isos really doubts Khenal's character. I'm also not sure what she knows about Friesden other than the fact that she did kill Efim. Did she immigrate early or late in the fortress?))
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:32:16 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 04:34:01 pm
The filly returns to the courtroom sheepishly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:35:38 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 04:49:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 04:55:32 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 04:58:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:01:14 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:07:04 pm
"Well...I woke up on the tower, like every morning. Then I went down stairs to wake you and Khenal up, as that day was my birthday. When neither of you acted like you remembered, I went back to the tower, feeling depressed. That's when it begins to get fuzzy."
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:08:26 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 05:14:58 pm
"What madness is this?", she mutters to herself.
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:22:10 pm
"Well...I remember being hit by you while flying...the seconds as I hit the ground...And seeing red fade the black in the last few moments of life."
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:26:29 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:36:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:37:26 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:42:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:43:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:46:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 05:49:04 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 05:59:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:01:27 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 06:02:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:07:18 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 06:18:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:23:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 06:27:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:30:33 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 02, 2011, 06:31:37 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 06:40:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:42:35 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 06:43:28 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 06:49:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 06:56:22 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 07:00:36 pm
I'l like to ask that I take Charity while Strongbeard is away.
Apparently already taken.
Post by: Khenal on December 02, 2011, 07:03:33 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 07:04:49 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 07:05:13 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 07:06:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 02, 2011, 07:27:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 07:34:43 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 07:37:15 pm
Nobody cared enough.yep.
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 07:38:22 pm
Maybe she'd be relevant to the trial too if she's still alive and conscious.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 07:39:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 07:52:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 08:20:29 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 08:29:51 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 08:30:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 08:39:36 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 09:20:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 09:28:12 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 09:31:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 09:37:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 09:47:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 09:51:36 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 09:59:14 pm
Suddenly, the pipes above the courtroom burst, and the room begins to flood. The filly runs over to Friesden and tries to bite the chains off her.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 10:00:48 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 10:01:30 pm
"ATTENTION ALL PONIES OF GLITTERGLEN! EMERGENCY! PLEASE BRING BUCKETS TO THE COURTROOM!"
((Ladies and Gentledwarves, we have now got more views than the hall of legends.;
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 10:03:14 pm
The speaker promptly explodes into flames after bubbles relays the message.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 10:05:18 pm
*Bubbles grabs a bucket and attempts to help clear out the place.*
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 10:06:26 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 10:09:12 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 10:10:01 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 02, 2011, 10:34:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 10:42:55 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 10:44:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 10:47:26 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 10:51:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 10:53:28 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 11:02:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 11:21:02 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 11:25:24 pm
She looks over in time to see Friesden somehow free and flying from the room. Did another guard free her?
No time to worry about that right now. She had to make sure that nopony, especially the duchess, got hurt right now. She hesitates. Or should she chase Friesden? She couldn't let the criminal escape either!
((I think. Not 100% sure I understand what's going on here. ???))
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 11:27:23 pm
Post by: The Master on December 02, 2011, 11:31:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 02, 2011, 11:34:07 pm
"Uh, yes, right." She motions for Friesden to back into the hallway away from the water. "Get to safety, but stay where I can see you." She follows Friesden whereever she ends up going.
Post by: Dsarker on December 02, 2011, 11:36:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 12:02:56 am
The Filly grabs Khenal by the mane with her teeth and drags him to his room. Poor Khenal struggling all the way there in vain against the mighty grip of a child.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 12:17:17 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 12:22:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 12:27:02 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 12:31:31 am
She looks down to see the torrent fill the area she had been standing in moments before. She felt cold at the thought of still being down there.
"...thank you."
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 12:31:39 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 12:36:40 am
((... And then Friesden and Psycho Carrot fly into the sunset on a rainbow while Glitterglen self-destructs. best trial ever.))((Sigged, but not going to happen.))
The torrent subsides, leaving behind a coughing and soaked Charity.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 12:49:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 12:52:33 am
"You bastard!" she yells.
"Quickly, to the cells. We'll need to get those ponies out now!"
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 12:54:08 am
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 12:55:03 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 12:56:54 am
"Oh no... Hurry!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:01:55 am
"Good luck!" she yells as she dives straight through.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:04:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:05:41 am
Friesden charges at the cell walls, trying to buck them down.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 01:07:54 am
Quote
On the 13th of Opal, 95 the following notice is posted in both dining halls.
Memo to all citizen's of Glitterglen.
From the desk of Mrs. Charity Conventtulip, Overseer of Glitterglen, and chief record keeper.
Please take note, that as of today, the showers are now functioning and available to all in the stone hall. Please be informed, that in the unlikely case of flooding, the lever to disable the flow of water is located inside my office, three floors up, first door on the left. Meanwhile, please enjoy the new water system that has been provided for you.
Charity Conventtulip
(and now bed.)
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:08:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:11:05 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:11:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:13:30 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:14:54 am
Falcata loses her grip as Friesden slams into the water. She tumbles underwater for what feels like an eternity, fighting to right herself. She wasn't much of a swimmer, so she would never make it to the prisoners before drowning.
Her mind races as she tries to think of a spell to help. Something... anything... inspiration! Her horn flickers for a moment before the water around her flashs to air, contained in an ethereal bubble. She sinks to the bottom, enshrouded by the pocket of air.
Friesden wouldn't be able to open the cells without her keys...
She rushes off to assist Friesden, intent on reaching the emergency shutoff immediately thereafter.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:20:29 am
She grabs as many of the prisoners as she can, and swims hard for the surface.
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:24:04 am
((Was Couth the only prisoner?))
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 01:28:42 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 01:32:06 am
(( I thought there were somewhere around ten prisoners in the cell block from the raids? oh, and I'm keeping a death grip on Nicolta so that makes 12 ponies total give or take.))
The last of the smugglers where freed awhile ago. Edit: should only be couth and nicolta in there.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:34:44 am
One of the broken pipes had contained some leeches, and were now latching on to anypony they could find.
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:38:20 am
Couth and Nicolta... that was everypony as far as she knew. Falcata points back toward the stairwell and says, "Come on, I can't keep this up much longer."
She focuses again, forming a new bubble behind her. She steps back into it and says,"Go on and get them to safety, I'm going to shut off the water from the Duchess' office."
That could be a big mistake. She didn't use her magic often, and keeping the two bubbles up was tiring her quickly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 01:41:57 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:43:41 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:45:24 am
"You... you're right. Come on, I don't know how much longer I can keep this up."
((Would the living quarters be underwater too? Could be a lot of ponies in trouble if so, I'm sure not everypony attended the trial))
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:48:30 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 03, 2011, 01:49:09 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 01:52:44 am
She continues forward, ignoring the vermin now that they were inside. They might suck her blood, but she didn't want to be sucking water right now. Any leeches that don't get out of the way are crushed beneath her hooves.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 01:59:06 am
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 02:03:42 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 02:06:47 am
"No, no, no!", she exclaims as the magic vanishes, surrounding the four in foam and water. She looks around frantically, seeing that they made it to the stairwell at least. She hoped her breath would last long enough to make it out.
She looks back to see Couth swiming for himself, but Nicolta is still unconscious. She languishes, trying to decide if she should try and carry him or save herself. Then Friesden's words come back to her, and she motions at him to Friesden. Trying to be the hero here would likely just get the both of them killed.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 02:13:39 am
Friesden grabs the sinking Nicolta and starts toward the surface.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:15:33 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 02:25:04 am
((Falling asleep here... gonna have to go in a minute I'm afraid))
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:29:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 02:30:19 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:31:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 02:33:39 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:34:38 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:36:08 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 02:37:35 am
"Uh, right," she says to the filly. "We should be getting back upstairs. Dr. Bubbles may need to look at Nicolta."
She takes several uneasy steps up the stairs, utter exhaustion setting in.
"Perhaps I've misjudged you, Friesden," she says in a low voice.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 02:53:21 am
Friesden slings Nicolta onto her back and starts trudging up the stairs.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:55:39 am
"I...but...oh...Let's go."
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 02:56:49 am
*taps Falcata on the shoulder*
"Wh-what just happened?" Couth gasps. "forget it, more important question, can I go home and bilge the rest of the sewer water out of my stomach?"
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 02:59:20 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 03:02:17 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 03:06:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 03:11:29 am
Suffice it to say, her father was an evil pony, and fully deserved what he got given.
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 03:17:11 am
"cute filly, who's-" Couth stopped. he just had an awful thought.
"It can't be Khenal and Friesden's filly can it?" he shudders.
Post by: Khenal on December 03, 2011, 03:18:34 am
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 03:20:08 am
Anyway, this feels like a reasonably good place for me to leave off. I'm pretty beat, and it looks like we're kind of waiting on KingStrongbeard for Charity to flip out on Carrot and perform sentencing. Falcata's involvement is pretty much concluded at this point. If you guys want to continue on, anyone can take over for Falcata if she's needed.)
Falcata continued to plod along back toward the makeshift and now quite damp courtroom. She was too tired to really think about what she was supposed to do now, and was content on letting either Captain Isos or Duchess Charity take care of that for her. She needed to inform them about the flooded jail and now freed prisoners at any rate.
The events of the past few minutes flooded back to her as if they had taken hours. Perhaps she really had misjudged Friesden. She would definitely attest to her selflessness. If Friesden hadn't thought of the prisoners or come to their aid, Falcata had no doubt they would have drowned. She couldn't have saved them alone, had she even thought to come for them.
For the first time, she began to question if Friesden deserved what felt inevitable at this point.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 03:23:07 am
She was possessed by a daemon and raped by her father multiple times.
The end.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 03:33:59 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 03:37:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 03:38:00 am
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 04:40:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 03, 2011, 05:40:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 05:54:08 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 10:15:34 am
As the group of Falcata, Friesden, and Psycho Carrot reach Charity's office, they see the Duchess, standing there, soaking wet, the lever that they were going to pull to lower the floodgate has already been switched. Charity, approaches, the filly. "Psycho, are you still in there," the Duchess grumbles. "Yes." the filly answers. Charity's horn flashes with magic, as the strongest chains she can summon, bind Psycho. Charity begins to give the scolding of a lifetime, which includes such colorful phrases as, "You could have bucking killed us all." and "So help me Luna, if you EVER do anything like this again, I will personally, bind your soul to an eternity in an adamantine bedpan!"
Once the ranting is finished, Charity sentences Psycho Carrot to removing the water from the lowest levels that can't be drained into the caverns.
(I'll assume a spirit capable of bringing down the roof on all of us can figure out a way to move a few tons of water. Also, I'll imagine Ironya will have a few things to say to you after you flooded her forge, and DESTROYED her home.)
Charity also allows for Couth Darkmane to be released from custody, she mostly just wanted him removed from the trial. As Psycho, works to remove the immense quantity of water, the other ponies begin to clean up the dining hall. As that takes up most of the day and into the night the trial is resumed the next day.
(Everyone feel free to make journal entries for this day if you desire.)
Charity's Journal 7th Slate 99
This trial has been just awful. Demons, ghosts, unrest, the roof nearly collapsed and killed me, then the pipes burst. All mostly Psycho Carrot's fault. Seems even the loss of his body won't keep that pony down, his spirit is haunting the town in spite of his body resting in pieces in the wooden casket Khenal made, up in the tower. I am concerned about this spirit, Psycho has always been, unstable, and in this new form he is much much more dangerous, when this trial business is over, I'll talk to Khenal and see if he knows any ways that we might help Carrot move on to his eternal reward. The trail is all over but the shouting, however, I think I've already made up my mind.
_______________________________________________________________________________
(I will make a few assumptions about what others will do during the end of the trial. Forgive me.)
The morning comes, the now mostly dry dinning hall has been set up for the trial once more. Friesden is brought forth in much the same matter as the first time. Charity opens the floor for any and all to speak, to condemn or redeem Friesden as best they can with their words.
During this time Falcata tells how Friesden risked her life to save two drowning ponies during the flood. And Couth tells the story a second time. Others speak, including Thundersplinter, Ironya, and Pillomino, of the mare they were once friends with. Some more ponies speak out in disbelieve of the evidence, claiming Khenal was pulling the wool over everyponies eyes.
Eventually, after several hours of chaotic bickering. Charity calls for silence, she takes the finally statements for Isos and Friesden. And then Charity stands to make what may be the most important speech she has ever had to make in her lifetime.
(I was going to put the verdict right here but know, I have something I'm waiting, on. You'll get to find out what happens soon. Naturally feel free to write out any last thoughts you might be having before the verdict is spoken.)
(I think it would be a good idea to arrange some sort of dinner for the character's, in which they talk about their pasts, and it'll give Dsarker an opportunity to introduce they're new character.)
(Starnight, here is your pony. http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Starnight.png
And here is Hog. http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Hog.png)
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 02:50:36 pm
If we do do that, I'm going to want to pick a new pony for that. I'm sort of thinking of playing a Ciaphas Cain, HERO OF THE IMPERIUM! type character.
((Now this I can get behind! Bonus points if you have a Jurgen pony by your side at all times.))
Falcata's Diary - 7th Slate, 99
I knew today would be interesting, but it turned out to be moreso than anypony could have predicted.
I didn't get to see a lot of the trial, because somepony named Couth Darkmane decided to interrupt and make some wild accusations that prompted the duchess to place him in custody for the rest of the trial. I got the job of escorting him to the cells, and on the way down I saw that the hospital had somehow burst into flames. The fire was too far progressed to be able to guess if it was intentional or not, but regardless it was a major disruption, and it's going to be some time before the hospital is back to full service. Nicolta Tesla was in the hospital at the time, but we managed to save him, thank goodness.
Then as I was returning to the courtroom, the ceiling collapsed and flooded the dining hall from the damaged plumbing. Friesden was released, and as I tried to secure her she pulled me from the flooding room. I won't say she saved my life, but she did probably save me from some time in the now-defunct hospital.
She did save two other pony's lives today though. As the waters flooded into the lower levels, she selflessly swam down to the cells to rescue Couth and Nicolta. I went after her to help, but it was definitely Friesden's actions that saved their lives, not mine. I made all of this clear to the duchess in my report.
I don't know if it makes much difference. The pony I saw today wouldn't have intentionally killed anypony, but I've dealt with murderers and serial killers before, and they're usually quite adept at hiding their intentions and personalities. I am grateful to Friesden for her help today, but I'm not convinced yet that she is completely innocent. Perhaps if I'd witnessed everything everypony else did in the trial I would feel different.
I wonder now what the duchess' final verdict will be. I've told her everything from my point of view, as true as I know it. It's in her hooves now. At this point, I don't know what I want her decision to be. Everypony makes mistakes, and I think perhaps Friesden has suffered enough for any she has committed.
Regardless, I am completely exhausted. Now that I know Kris was unharmed from the flood, I'm going to sleep. The final ruling will come tomorrow morning, and it won't do much good to agonize over it tonight.
*******
As the duchess calls the court to order for the final time, Falcata feels the anxiety begin to build within her. What would the final verdict be? She lets out a long breath and watches the duchess prepare to speak. She was glad that it was the duchess making this decision, not her.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 03:53:25 pm
She would accept it gladly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 03:58:12 pm
Earthpony's name: Schmutz
Royal pony's name: Anias Abel ))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 04:11:20 pm
"Ponies of Glitterglen, this trial has been a great stress on all of us, and now it is time to put this unpleasant business behind us forevermore. Friesden Sectlaces, I, Charity Conventulip, Duchess of the Failed Jungle, Mayor of Glitterglen, by the power of Gadan the Virtue of Angels, Igest the Fragrant Smile, and all the gods above and below, I find you innocent of the charge of murder of one Psycho Carrot, and the court hereby accepts the claim of innocent by way of temporary insanity for the murder of your father efim, on the condition that you be placed on probation for the rest of your life in Glitterglen, the details of which will be worked out in the coming days, but for now, Captain, unchain the defendant, we're done here."
Charity walks out of the hall, half expecting it to explode behind her. Charity turns right just after walking out the door, and enter's her home. She levitates a do not distrub sign onto the door, before collapsing with her husband.
"My love. Did I do the right thing," she asks.
"I don't know," replies Cryptson, "but I hope so."
"I hope so too."
Charity plans to spend the rest of the day locked in her room waiting for the emotions of the trial to settle before she braves the outside world again.
(That's fine Dsarker, but just to make sure you are aware. The earthpony is in the guard under Captain Isos, and and the royal is serving under Captain Crest Fire. If that's fine with you, then I'll name them and post them right away.)
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 04:13:56 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 04:15:19 pm
((Was going to write them as they finally emigrate to the fortress as the trial ends. That okay with you?))
(eh, Sure why not, you won't be the first to do so. Do you want me to move one or both into different squads?)
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 04:18:41 pm
Friesden stands stock still. She doesn't even move as her chains are undone. She says merely "I'm free, Khenal," before she collapses.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 03, 2011, 04:19:44 pm
She is worried.
Not about Friesden - okay, yes, she is worried about Friesden, but that's not what occupies her mind right now. She is worried about her Captain. How will he take this? If the worst happens, what will he do? Look what happened when one of his squadmates was killed. What's going to happen if he loses one of his dearest friends? Last time, circumstances precluded any punishment, but... what if he isn't that lucky this time?
'Sisters, please let them show mercy. For both their sakes.'
The verdict is passed. The chains are removed. Somewhere, on the edge of her consciousness, a faint 'You're welcome.'
((Quadruple ninja? Really?))
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 04:21:06 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 04:29:02 pm
However, I don't think you need to cross all that out, it's all still valid. Maybe instead just add. "And then Charity spoke, Friesden was being pardoned." and then include the character's reactions to the verdict, or something like that. It's up to you.
Also, Dsarker here you go.
Anias Abel http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Anias%20Abel.png
Schmutz http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Schmutz.png
Edit: Moved Anias into the second slot (which has been free since Psycho died and Isos was moved up) in the Fortress Guard, (he is still equipped with a crossbow) so he and Schmutz are both guards now.
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 04:29:57 pm
Well, this trek through the jungle has been about as interesting as I like. Thankfully the princess' administrative drone didn't question my emigration to such a backwater fort. With any luck, there'll be no fighting, and nothing of any sort of interesting there. My hoof was twitching, though, and that was never a good sign. This whole mission was shaping up a lot like that assignment to Bakedarmour, and if I'd known what was going to happen there, I'd have run away into hiding. Hopefully this wouldn't go as bad.
Schmutz's Diary
Psoriasis was the same today. Commissar said not to worry. I wasn't planning on doing so, but if he said not to, must be good that I wasn't.
Hope this Glitterglen has plenty of tanna. Nearly ran out on the trek here.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 06:23:10 pm
The Filly sneaks off duty to see about bothering Khenal. She finds him, but he's as unresponsive as a rock. She does everything possible to get his attention, from making faces, to poking and biting, but still no response. She eventually decides to sneak to the entrance, and watch the fauna.
All of a sudden, she sees a small group of ponies in the distance.
Post by: Telgin on December 03, 2011, 07:10:29 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 07:27:45 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 03, 2011, 07:34:44 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 07:39:15 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 07:58:15 pm
((Am I the only one the least bit weirded out by the fact that Carrot fully intends to 'kill' his own daughter so he can steal her body?))
No, I was planning on bringing it up later. I mean if Carrot's basically stealing his daughter's life for himself, that seems kind of, you know, evil. I mean using her for a few minutes to relay a message is one thing, enjoying a second foalhood, through her, is something else.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 08:02:36 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 08:11:46 pm
Charity, approaches, the filly. "Psycho, are you still in there," the Duchess grumbles. "Yes." the filly answers. Charity's horn flashes with magic, as the strongest chains she can summon, bind Psycho.((It's not like I have a choice...))
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 08:21:30 pm
"Yes, Commissar?" comes the voice of the earthpony, slightly obscured by the sheer amount of things he is carrying on his back.
"Do we have any tanna left?" asks Abel, a hopeful tone in his voice.
"I'll check, Commissar." The earthpony's head emerges and he starts to rummage among the different bags and pouchs on his back. After a few minutes, he finishes, and shakes his head. "No, Commissar."
"Blast. Hoperfully this place...." "Glitterglen, Commissar." "Yes, Glitterglen, hopefully it'll have enough tanna to tide us out on this assignment." "As the Princesses will."
Slowly the marching group comes into view of Glitterglen, a noticable gap forming between the two and the other ponies in the group.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 08:23:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 08:30:51 pm
"Bathed, Commissar?"
"Just as I thought." Abel stopped. "Is that a pony out there?"
"Looks to be, Commissar."
"Well, time to meet and greet, I guess."
"As the Princesses will."
As the filly gets near to Schmutz, Carrot feels a sharp pain, like hundreds of needles being shoved into every part of her.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 03, 2011, 08:31:35 pm
As the filly gets near to Schmutz, Carrot feels a sharp pain, like hundreds of needles being shoved into every part of her.
Lolwut? Carrot is a he.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 08:32:17 pm
"OWWWWW...ow, ow, ow...........ow." Moans the filly.Charity, approaches, the filly. "Psycho, are you still in there," the Duchess grumbles. "Yes." the filly answers. Charity's horn flashes with magic, as the strongest chains she can summon, bind Psycho.((It's not like I have a choice...))
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 03, 2011, 08:32:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 08:34:57 pm
Abel sighs.
"I think this became a whole lot more interesting than I like."
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 08:53:48 pm
"Hi! I'm Carrot! What's yours?!" Asks the filly, excitedly.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 03, 2011, 08:57:58 pm
Charity, approaches, the filly. "Psycho, are you still in there," the Duchess grumbles. "Yes." the filly answers. Charity's horn flashes with magic, as the strongest chains she can summon, bind Psycho.((It's not like I have a choice...))
Oh, um, oops. I had meant to have the chains only be there until Charity was finished yelling at you. However, since I forgot to say that she undid them, I guess she actually did forget to undo them. Yes, we can roll with that I guess. Ha, it'll be funny when Charity confronts Psycho about not letting his daughter go, and he tells her he can't because SHE locked him in. I'm just imagining the look on her face, and it is hilarious.
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 09:05:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 03, 2011, 09:06:32 pm
((Think about it, if I didn't, she'd just grow up to cold and heartless like Kil. I wasn't planning on staying on her, but I can roll with it! Besides, I tend to make my characters hyper, so it works great!))
((Hmmm...))
((Now if Kil wasn't cold and heartless. Just, shall we say, a little overenthusiastic? ;D))
Post by: DVNO on December 03, 2011, 09:16:12 pm
((The thing is, when(and she will some day) "the filly" does die, Carrot just becomes free, and I can just find another host. :DEAL-WITH-IT-FACE:))
((so It's like regenerating in Dr. Who, except horrifying? god I love this fortress. ))
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 09:17:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 10:18:25 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 10:21:43 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 10:41:27 pm
Post by: The Master on December 03, 2011, 11:50:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 03, 2011, 11:59:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 12:03:45 am
Post by: Khenal on December 04, 2011, 12:07:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 12:10:38 am
Friesden was found not innocent. She's on probation. When she heard the verdict, she fell into a coma.
Commissar Anias Abel and Gunner Schmutz have arrived.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:25:55 am
The Filly heads home to her family, who promptly throw her out. Depressed, she knocks on Khenal's door to see if she could stay with him, but doesn't get a response. She ends up going outside and sleeping in the grass, shivering from the cold.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:52:45 am
I had knocked on the door. "Come in," came the reply, and I entered the room. In the course of my service, I'd met plenty of dukes and duchesses, mayors, counts and countesses, barons and baronesses, and even the princess once or twice. Most of them are lazy, useless. They don't work, just living the lifestyle. The few of them I have met who weren't incompetent usually turned traitor, and a couple of times led to very narrow escapes for yours truly.
The duchess here wasn't lazy, didn't seem about to turn traitor, but she had a bunch of paperwork on her desk. I winced inwardly. One of the very few parts of being a noble I don't envy. At least with the Commissariat I could foist most of my paperwork onto Schmutz, who took to it with the same enthusiasm he had for every task, considering it right next to a direct order from the Sisters.
"Commissar Anias Abel reporting for duty, ma'am." I said, playing the dutiful, obedient war hero to the hilt, standing at full attention and with the red sash clearly visible. "Oh, yes. We've been expecting you," came the tired reply, and I could see the bags under her eyes. Maybe she was more focused on her duties than the others.
"Sorry about the mess," she said. "Just had a trial. Everything from daemon possessions to the dead coming back to life. It's a mess trying to clear it all up." Inwardly I winced once more. Not the calm, carefree outpost I'd thought it would be, but at least there were no diomedians. "And the Diomedians have continued to give us trouble," she went on, not noticing the wince at the prospect. "Well, I'm here to show those Diomedians that the Princess won't take their constant raiding lying down," I said, bravado in full stride. "But I think the military you've got here already does that well enough."
"Quite. Well, Commissar, I don't want to keep your from your quarters..."
"Nor I yours, Duchess. The Sisters Protect!" I said, and bowed out of the room. As I walked quietly through the corridors, I saw that same filly I'd met earlier walking with a downcast look on her face. She was heading outside, and I knew better than most ponies that the outside isn't as nice and peaceful as the pictures say it is. I followed her stealthily enough, my caver childhood keeping me well unnoticed. She eventually ended up outside, and lay down to sleep.
Slowly I walked over her, then lifting her up gently, I lay her on my back. No sense telling the diomedians we were here and ready to be easy targets, eh?
Slowly, not waking her, I took her indoors and to the quarters Schmutz had managed to scrounge up for the both of us. Without question he accepted the filly on my back and lay her on the bed, before grabbing one of the numerous spare blankets and going to sleep on the floor. I took another and sat on the chair. With any luck, it would be more comfortable than the bed.
I sat down and went to sleep, Schmutz's familiar aroma lulling me into unconsciousness.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 03:42:13 pm
"Wha...? Why am I here...? I was just...huh." Stammers the confused Filly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 03:58:13 pm
"Tanna, sir?" he asked, and I gratefully accepted. I drank it down deep, and turned back to the filly.
"You were sleeping outside last night, young miss. Not a very safe thing to do down here. Who're your parents?" I said, in a voice with equal sternness and compassion mixed.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 03:59:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 04:03:02 pm
"Don't worry. Schmutz, would you go scrounge up another pair of beds? Looks like we'll need them." Schmutz dutifully went right on to do just that, and I looked closer at the filly. "Hey, young miss. You can stay with us, if that'd be okay with you."
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 04:07:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 04:12:59 pm
"Well, do you have anything you need from home? I've got nothing better to do, we might as well collect it."
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 04:20:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 04:29:33 pm
"Well, we'll see what she says to a small squad, hmmm?" Schmutz took that as the right moment to appear, two beds balanced on his back. He carefully placed them down, then turned to me for more orders. "Schmutz, go round up a small group of soldiers. Particularly ones who this filly might know," I said, gesturing to the filly. "Say, what's your name, anyway?"
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 04:32:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 04:40:13 pm
"Well, Lilac Joker...let's go see about dealing with your mother," I said matter-of-factly, and started heading for her house.1
1 Although Abel doesn't mention this, in his typical style, he appears to have sent off Schmutz before he asked the filly her name, as Schmutz makes his way to Lilac's house before Abel does.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 04:54:29 pm
"Alright..." Says Lilac. When they reach her home, they find the door has been badly damaged.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 04:58:19 pm
With a wave of my hoof, Schmutz pushed the door open, and went in, crossbow drawn.
"In the name of the Principial Commissariat you are bound by law, Kil! You will stand down!" I yelled, drawing my weapon too. I stepped into the room.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:00:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:11:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:17:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:23:50 pm
It was obvious at the time that it was a pony who'd done this. But why? Kil didn't seem to be that big a deal, even within the fortress. Unless she was hiding something, this just didn't make any sense.
With hindsight, it was obvious. But at the time, we had no clue of just how deeply this fortress was embroiled in daemons.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:26:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 05:29:21 pm
"What is the meaning of this? Who ordered you here, soldier?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:33:00 pm
"Damnation!" I yelled. It was an outburst that suited the Abel that people thought I was, still caring after somepony he hadn't known had died. Well, I didn't care so much about her as that now I knew there was somepony out there killing others, and I didn't want to become the next target.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:37:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:40:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 05:40:40 pm
"So you're the stallion who thought it'd be a good idea to drag six ponies off surface detail in the middle of a Diomedian-infested jungle? Tell me, what di- oh... oh sisters, is that... Kil?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:43:05 pm
"Yes." I said, a grim tone in my voice. "We have a murderer here."
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:44:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:47:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 05:49:09 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 05:51:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 05:54:16 pm
A simple hoof-gesture, and every crossbow in the room is pointed at the hooded figure.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 05:56:20 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:01:02 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:02:12 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:03:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:04:46 pm
Starkey steps into the kitchen, weapon ready, and approaches the figure.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 06:06:09 pm
When Starkey (as I learned later was his name) gave the order, I still didn't fire. Damn this pony, it was not going to get off that easily. When he closed, I went with him.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:07:33 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:08:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 06:09:19 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:13:00 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:14:06 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:16:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 06:25:19 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:29:33 pm
"M-m-m-mom...?" Lilac studders before collapsing into a heap of tears.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:32:50 pm
"Kil was the wife of one of my late Lieutenants, a pony named Psycho Carrot. Crest Fire was one of his close friends. Recently, we learned that she had been stepping out on him, hadn't been letting him see his foals..."
He trails off.
"The foals! Where are they, are they safe?"
His question is answered by Lilac's sobs in the next room. He rushes in to find her lying next to her slain mother.
"Oh... sweetheart, come here..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 06:33:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:35:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 06:38:43 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:44:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 06:49:14 pm
((It was a filly and two colts, right?))
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 06:56:50 pm
"I don't know..."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:04:54 pm
He turns to the stranger.
"I can tell by your garb you're a Comissar, but I never caught your name."
He extends a hoof.
"Captain Starkey, Glitterglen Militia."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 07:09:41 pm
After I took Lilac back to my room, I got Schmutz to keep her company, and headed back down to meet up with the captain again.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:19:33 pm
"It's been a while since I was a guard, but I think I did alright, wouldn't you agree?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 07:25:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:35:17 pm
"The victim was stabbed here, in the entryway. Her wounds matched the attacker's knife. He dragged her - or she crawled, we can't tell - into the closet, here. You found her, and brought her out into the hallway, where she died. Between the attack and the encounter in the kitchen, we don't know what the killer was doing. We haven't found the other foals, either. For the best, really: I'd rather they didn't see this."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 07:36:56 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:42:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 07:46:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:51:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 07:55:57 pm
"Well, what about his death? Any clue on the poison or who could have made it?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 07:59:40 pm
He shakes his head.
"I just don't get it. Kil was a bitch, aye, and what she did to Carrot was... inexcusable. But does killing her and orphaning their children solve anything?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:04:06 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:10:39 pm
"N-No. We didn't find any other bodies, or signs of struggle. Surely they've just run off to play? O-Or perhaps they became worried when Kil turned Lilac away, and went looking for her?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:11:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:13:56 pm
'I'm sorry Carrot, I'm so sorry...'
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 08:15:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:16:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:19:10 pm
He notices the strange hoof.
"Look there, under the carpet."
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 08:28:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:30:30 pm
I saw the two bodies underneath the carpet, and I lay it down again.
"They're there. Don't bother looking. We'll need four coffins now."
I looked up to the guards. "Not a word of this to anyone outside of this room. Not a word. This does not leave this room."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:31:22 pm
"N-No... oh, sisters no... please..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:33:46 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 08:39:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:40:20 pm
He is silent for a long time. Finally, he is able to lift his gaze to Abel.
"...You are right. Let's bring this bastard in. Shall we go see what the doctor can tell us?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:42:58 pm
It was then that I looked at the knife. A word had been written on it. "Loyalty", it read. I held it out to the captain. "Why would he have loyalty on his knife?"
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 08:45:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:50:09 pm
He examines the knife more closely.
"Plain as day..."
Starkey unsheathes his axe, bringing the blade up to compare. The word 'Honesty' is etched across the blade. Sure enough, the script matches perfectly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:51:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:52:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 08:56:35 pm
"How could he get that knife? Who had it last?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 08:59:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:01:53 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 09:06:32 pm
"I-It's like a curse, I tell you... in just a few days, everypony I call friend..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:09:07 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 09:32:01 pm
"Hi...Where's Vance and Bane, my brothers? did you find them?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:36:09 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 09:39:47 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 09:43:36 pm
"Uh, why don't we go upstairs and have some lunch, then we can go looking for them, aye?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:47:40 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 09:50:07 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 09:52:27 pm
"Oh, little one... I'm so sorry..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:55:25 pm
I moved out of the room. What I'd seen here was sickening, but I'd seen far worse.
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 09:57:35 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 09:57:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 09:59:59 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 10:00:13 pm
((AFK for an hour or so, feel free to voice Lilac.))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 10:10:54 pm
He gently shifts Lilac onto his back, and trots off to the dining hall.
"Have you met miss Otik, Lilac? She should be taking her lunch right now..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 04, 2011, 10:15:05 pm
"We can't allow that to happen again. Get a pair of coffins down here. We're going to have those foals buried before anyone even notices."
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 10:30:10 pm
"I have not...what's she....like?" asks Lilac, still retching from the horrific scenes she seen today.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 04, 2011, 11:05:44 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 11:07:31 pm
Post by: The Master on December 04, 2011, 11:55:06 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 12:02:22 am
'Poor filly. She didn't deserve any of that.'
He changes direction, heading for the barracks. He lays her gently on his bunk and tucks her in.
"Sleep well, little one. You might not have a family, but you're damn sure not alone."
"Well I toldja I wanted foals someday, but dunnae you think this is a bit early?"
He turns to see Otik standing in the doorway, smiling warmly.
"Shouldn't you be at lunch?"
"Ye didnae show up, so I thought ye'd be down here. I brought ye a lit'l somethin'."
She steps inside, revealing two plates of food balanced on her back.
"So, who's th' kid?"
"It's Lilac, hun. Carrot's filly?"
"Aye, I see th' resemblance now. What's she doin' here? Won't Kil be-"
"Dead. Her and both the colts. We're supposed to keep it quiet."
"Oh sisters..."
"It was Lieutenant Crest Fire. He took some kind of poison when we found him."
"He murdered 'is best friend's family? Why would he go an' do a thing like that?"
"I... I don't know."
Otik turns her head, watching the sleeping filly.
"What 'appens to her? Does she 'ave any other family?"
"No. Carrot never mentioned having any relatives in Glitterglen, at least."
"So Miss Charity'll hafta find a new home for 'er?"
She sets both plates on the Captains desk, and they sit down to eat.
"Eventually. For now, I think she should stay here. We think there's another killer, and he might come back to finish the job. She'll be safer among the militia."
They are both silent for a time. eventually, Otik speaks up.
"Hey Stars?"
"Hmm?", he replies around a mouthful of biscuit.
"Y'know, ye could always take her in yerself."
He swallows involuntarily, and almost chokes. "Me?"
"Sure. I bet Carrot'd be proud t' have ye raise 'is daughter in 'is stead, and now she's away from that horrid mare..."
"No, no, no, I'd make a lousy father! I'd spoil her rotten for sure."
"I dunnae think so. Ye've practically got more'n a dozen kids already, an' it looks t' me like they all turned out fine."
*chuckle*, "Aye, I'll give you that. But a little filly? that's a different matter entirely."
"Well, give it some thought, a'least."
Starkey turns, facing Lilac. She is sleeping fitfully, in the throes of some night-terror. He reaches out a hoof and gently strokes her mane. Slowly, she calms down, drifting off into deep, restful sleep.
"Aye, I'll think about it."
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 12:12:28 am
Lilac falls out of bed, and smiles. For that one perfect moment, she doesn't remember all the horrible things that happened. Then she does, and she bawls he eyes out. She does so quietly, and eventually manages to find Starkey and Otik.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 12:23:10 am
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 12:26:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 12:32:13 am
Starkey panics, reaching for his axe only to come up empty-handed. The minor distraction gives him just enough time to calm down and take in the situation. By now, Otik has siezed Lilac around the waist and is tickling her relentlessly.
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 12:40:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 12:42:26 am
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 12:45:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 12:49:02 am
"Oh, and this is miss Otik. You remember I told you about her?"
Post by: Telgin on December 05, 2011, 12:49:09 am
Falcata's Diary - 10th Slate
So the duchess found Friesden innocent. Mostly. She says that she'll be on probation, but didn't define what that was exactly. In the end, I think it was a fair ruling. Khenal believed she was no danger to anypony anymore. The duchess believes it. Maybe I believe it too. If she's on probation, it shouldn't matter anyway.
As it turns out, it really doesn't matter, as both she and Khenal have been comatose since the trial. I hope they recover soon.
In other news, I was quite excited to learn that none other than the legendary Commissar Anias Abel has been assigned to our fort. Well, I'm not sure why a commissar was assigned to our fort. Not now, at least. If we ever needed one it was months ago when the real horrors started.
Nevertheless, I'm sure now that Commissar Abel has joined us, he'll sort things out in short order. If half of the things I've heard about him are true, he'll have no trouble. Legends are that he slew a daemon single handedly, crushed legions of unliving horrors from below the frozen wastelands, and killed several legendary dark princes and princesses in single combat. If I understand correctly, I'll be working with him directly too.
I hope I don't let him down. The stories say that he cares a lot about the ponies under his command, but he's a commissar all the same. I'd rather not give him a reason to doubt my loyalty and courage.
I was a bit perplexed though. I think I saw him today, wearing the crimson sash of his office. He was accompanied by perhaps the most disheveled looking pony I've ever seen. I almost thought he was a keshi pony at first, but the commissar seemed perfectly comfortable near him. I didn't get too close, because I think something must have been rotting further down the hallway, but I'll be running into the commissar again before too long.
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 12:53:13 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 01:07:41 am
"Wot say we all get dressed an' go upstairs fer some breakfast, aye?"
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 01:16:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 01:28:37 am
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 01:37:38 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 01:51:37 am
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 01:53:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 02:00:02 am
I didn't get much sleep that night, poring as I did through the records of everypony here. Schmutz was a great help, supplying tanna and recaf as needed. Four ponies names stood out. Carrot, the one who had died before I got here. Friesden and Khenal, both of whom were in comas. And the last, Starkey. All the evidence pointed to him. He was outside the room just before, he was able to tell the wound quickly without the doctor, and he was apparently harbouring a daemon in him. But one thing didn't click. The foals' bodies had been arranged in the sign of Chaos. That was why we had felt sick at the sight, why I'd ordered it burnt. So why then had it made him feel sick, too?
There was no question though. A daemon, or a cultist aligned with a daemon, had been behind this. And I'd have to seek them out and deal with them before they did the same to me.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 02:08:37 am
"Oi, Sir Abel! Care to sit with me?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 02:21:00 am
"Well, how are you this morning? And how's Lilac?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 02:33:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 02:41:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 02:51:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 03:03:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 03:21:53 am
"So, if you don't mind me asking, why did you come to Glitterglen? If you still hold office, then you obviously weren't banished. Were you sent here on some kind of mission?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 03:36:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 03:56:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 04:02:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 04:05:57 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 04:11:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 04:16:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 04:25:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 04:32:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 04:42:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 05:03:22 am
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 03:09:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 03:22:22 pm
2 This incident, while interesting, need not detain us further at this stage. You may find more details in the currently accepted text 'For the Princess: A Commissar's Life', also by Abel.
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 05:42:57 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 08:38:56 pm
"I'll be just a moment."
He trots back to where Lilac and Otik are still eating. A few words pass between them, and Starkey recieves a nuzzle from both mares. He returns.
"Right, that's taken care of. Whenever you're finished."
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 08:47:35 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 08:50:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 09:00:56 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 09:09:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 09:11:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 09:25:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 09:28:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 09:33:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 09:39:07 pm
I sighed. "The killing of the foals was a ritual to the Chaos Gods."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 09:50:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 09:50:59 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 09:58:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 10:09:24 pm
I shook my head.
"How in the hay could you think we knew what it would mean? It could be part of a pattern, maybe even the start of a great ritual. Maybe it was to summon a daemon to the fortress. Any number of things. This is way above our paygrade, captain. This is a task for an Inquisitor, rooting out a Chaos cult. But we don't have that luxury, unfortunately. So this is the way it'll have to be."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 10:14:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 10:22:11 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 10:41:53 pm
At the mention of the filly's name, Starkey's eyes go wide.
"Lilac! I-I sent her with Otik to pick up things from her room. Sisters, she'll be devastated!"
He turns and gallops down the hall towards the residential quarter.
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 10:52:01 pm
"Hello again, Inquisitor Vail."
Post by: Telgin on December 05, 2011, 11:02:16 pm
It was after antagonising the pony that seemed to be the only competent one here that I bumped into another pony. Here, she went by the name of Istig, but I knew her by a different name. Although she was a pleasant sight, it meant things were just as bad, if not worse, than I'd feared.
"Hello again, Inquisitor Vail."
((Surprisingly, no I didn't see that specifically coming, although I figured you'd work the inquisitor in some way or another eventually. Now then, to find a way to work Falcata into this so she can annoy the commissar by drooling over him and his reputation...)
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 11:14:37 pm
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 11:21:51 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 05, 2011, 11:25:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 11:25:57 pm
"Indeed it isn't," she said, a smile lighting up her face as she recognised my expression. "I assume that one of the cultists was behind the murders yesterday." I sighed. If the information wasn't kept tight enough to prevent the filly from getting back to the crime scene, I didn't really expect it to keep out an inquisitor. But, then, I guess nothing keeps out those types. If it isn't nosing into Commissarial matters, taking whatever remains of the law in any petty outpost into their own hands, or even crossing the street incorrectly, an Inquisitor is always, somewhere, not obeying the strictures of established law3. Well, at least now I had somepony I could trust here.
3 I feel here he is being a little overdramatic. Inquisitors never cross the street incorrectly.
Post by: HiritconOvermindGibbross on December 05, 2011, 11:28:38 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 11:31:01 pm
-snip-
Your signature has a couple of errors. You've got forgotten so, where it should read Son, so, or begotten Son, so. You've also got parish where it should be perish.
Post by: HiritconOvermindGibbross on December 05, 2011, 11:33:07 pm
your right sorry about that fixing now-snip-
Your signature has a couple of errors. You've got forgotten so, where it should read Son, so, or begotten Son, so. You've also got parish where it should be perish.
thanks
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 11:38:43 pm
"I-I'm sorry hun, I didn't-"
A glare from Otik silences him. They sit in silence for a while.
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 11:40:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 11:42:59 pm
Post by: The Master on December 05, 2011, 11:44:09 pm
Post by: HiritconOvermindGibbross on December 05, 2011, 11:44:39 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on December 05, 2011, 11:51:18 pm
It was a relatively short tale, as things went. But at least now I had a sitrep. "Crest Fire, the apparent murderer, was also in the militia. But he was using the blade that belonged to Carrot, another pony, who was also in the militia. But why would they come out now?" I asked. The Inquisitor shook her head. "Your guess is as good as mine right now. The poison the doctor found was definitely Diomedian in origin, though." She smiled as she walked off, leaving me on my own, with another unpalatable slice of Whodunnit pie.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 05, 2011, 11:57:18 pm
"This was yer daddy's old room."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:01:05 am
It hurts to look at it, the eyes almost instinctively turning away. It seems off. Very, very, off.
It looks rather like
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 12:04:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 12:07:44 am
Starkey raises a hoof, cutting her off.
"Why don't you show her Carrot's old armor? It's in the armory, far end of the left wall."
"A-Aye, that sounds nice."
They leave. Starkey steps further into the office, gently shutting the door behind him.
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:14:10 am
YOU WILL NOT. echoes through his mind.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 12:19:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:21:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 12:26:37 am
Starkey punctuates his mental sentence with a snort of disgust.
'But no, I assure you I have no intention of throwing my lot into this 'chaos' business.'
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 12:28:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:30:31 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 12:40:10 am
'How the clop are you supposed to be fighting them if you can't even get close to something they've touched without dying?'
- - - - - -
"Wot do ye mean, lit'l one? They are nae so much yer friend if they betray ye."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:44:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 12:49:00 am
'He'd obviously never heard of sabotage. Or stealth, for that matter. So you keep killing as many of them as you can, until you die. then somepony else comes along and does the same thing, and all the while the other side is doing the exact same thing. An eternal stalemate. So how do you tip the scales in your favor? What's your trump card?'
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 12:52:19 am
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 12:53:05 am
"I mean...I mean...zzzzzzzzzzzzzz..." Lilac falls asleep on Otik, tired from all that she's seen, and all that food she ate.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 01:43:00 am
'That's no way to fight a war. You've got to have some strategy beond just 'kill more uf them than they kill of us'. '
He leaves the barracks, heading down the hallway towards the residential quarter.
Post by: Starnight on December 06, 2011, 01:58:34 am
Starnight's Journal
Well, I'd be lying if I said that I'd kept a journal/diary before, so what I write here might not make sense. Anyway, I just want to say, I got to Glitterglen today. Apparently they just finished up a trial, which worries me. Hopefully this place won't turn out so much like home. I've heard there have been cases of daemonic possession, and there were a few murders. I won't judge this place by the past, because the past is the past. Which is why I came here in the first place. To forget the past... (here there are a few water marks) I'm going to take a nap, so... goodnight... book/journal/diary thing... It feels weird saying goodnight to a book...
((If I should make any corrections, please tell me, and I will gladly make them.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 03:34:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 03:44:31 am
Starkey locates the door to Abel's quarters, and knocks.
"Sir Abel, are you in? It's urgent."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 03:51:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 03:53:56 am
"Ah, there you are."
He lowers his voice, almost to a whisper.
"There's been another incident... another sigil."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:05:08 am
"Where is it?" I asked, motioning to Schmutz to get the torches.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:21:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:27:39 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:34:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:37:09 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:50:14 am
"Look, I'm not exactly up to speed on this whole Chaos thing. Who are these four gods, exactly, and how do they relate to the daemons we've encountered?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:58:23 am
"The first Chaos God is Khorne. He is the lord of anger, death, war, battle, and honour. His followers seek only to spill as much blood as possible. The second is Tzeentch. He is the lord of magic, change, plotting, planning, and hope. His followers seek only to brew as much chaos in the Principality as possible. The third is Nurgle. He is the lord of disease, decay, rot, and love. His followers seek to spread as much disease as possible, giving to people the 'gifts' of Grandfather Nurgle. The fourth is Slaanesh. He is the lady of gluttony, lust, pain, perfection and pleasure. His followers seek to perfect themselves in everything, from gluttony and lust to war, from torture to sex."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:02:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:07:22 am
"Captain, what you call daemons would be better called creatures of the warp. They feed on the emotions of all sentient beings. Indeed, Slaanesh was formed by the Zebra long ago, when they ruled the world. The Chaos Gods are merely those daemons who have been given enough food to expand to such power." continued the Inquisitor as she came into the room.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:11:59 am
He has long since come to forgive Istlig for the beating incident, on account of her being posessed at the time. But that doesn't stop him from being just a little bit... wary around her.
"Since when are you an expert in the daemonic?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:22:19 am
I've always been wary around Inquisitors. In part, it was because of their being above the law. It simply has no hold on them. But most of it was their supreme authority. If they so wanted, a simple flick of their finger would sign my death warrant, and worse. I would be simply gone from every record imaginable. For they held the power of Exterminatus. To simply destroy a fortress, leaving no record, no trace. None of its works, of its ponies, would survive. So I do admit I flinched a bit as Vail drew her inquisitorial rosette, her badge of office. To his credit, Starkey remained still.
It was a simple thing. A capital I, with a skull at the center. It still scared the buck out of me, I can tell you that.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:25:58 am
"I see. Is 'Istlig' even your real name?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:33:30 am
I carry with me an Inquisitorial Seal. It is a small, unassuming object contained in a neat box of Pluvian obsidian. It is a modest thing. Relatively plain, adorned with a single motif and a simple motto. Yet with this little object I can sign the death warrant of an entire fortress and consign a billion souls to Oblivion.))
"Of course not. Inquisitor Amberly Vail, Ordo Xenos. You should learn to keep your face calm." she said, seemingly not caring about the annoyance even I could feel starting to radiate from the captain. "Then you should learn to keep your militia clean of the heretics that have infested it. Were I an unforgiving pony, this fortress would have been consigned to the dust long before now. But I am forgiving. This place could serve a purpose, which is why I have been assigned, and why I have assigned the commissar, to clear this place out. It is a veritable den of heretics and traitors. We've tracked down three. There could be anymore from three to six more of them here, but I would be leaning towards five."
It clicked. A Khornate cult would be able to hide relatively well. The spilling of the mare's blood, the dismembering of the foals, the refusal to hide, all pointed to a Khornate cult.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:38:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:40:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:54:38 am
"Yes, I read her records, just like the rest. Former soldier. Exiled for desertion. She abandoned her unit to find her family after the Diomedians razed Abbeylashed. She... well, she found them alright."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:58:50 am
"Five years. Five years, captain. How many more did you let slip through your grasp? Two Khornate cultists in the militia's ranks, and you propose to do exactly what. I thought you were the ring leader. You certainly acted like it when you didn't even question me beyond when I said I was possessed. DID YOU EVEN CHECK? WHAT IN THE EYE WENT WRONG HERE?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:10:27 am
"I didn't need to. Not after I saw the beast take hold of your body with my own eyes. Watched as it was drawn out of you. and how dare you insinuate that a mare I had called friend for years, a faithful follower of Kulet and the Sisters, would throw her lot in with the likes of hellspawn?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 06:24:42 am
"As for the 'daemon' you saw 'dragged' from me. Schmutz, would you kindly leave the room for a moment? Go back to your quarters." Schmutz obediently did so, and I turned my face from the sigil as the whispers started.
"Rakel, if you wouldn't mind?" she said, seemingly into empty air. Suddenly her posture completely changed, and I remembered the name. It was her voice that came out, too, a voice like fingernails on a blackboard.
"Captain unsatisfied the think inquisitor does." came the voice, and the image of that strange unicorn Vail had attached to her, and the reason she'd sent Schmutz out, became clear. Green smoke belched forth from Amberley's mouth, and came to rest on Starkey's nose.
STARKEY. WHY HAVE YOU BEEN TREATING WITH A BLANK? came Schmoe's clear voice, anger clear and ready behind it.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:30:57 am
"Who... is that?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 06:40:38 am
A blank is somepony who doesn't have any magic in them, not even the ambient stuff that even earthponies and pegasi have. They act as sort of a vaccuum, sucking in all the magic. I was trying to yell at you all through this conversation, but he prevented that. Best watch out for him, the Inquisitor brought him here for a reason.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:51:22 am
"Aye, but who is he? I've never seen him before."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:56:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 07:03:51 am
Get us out of here. That unicorn is more powerful than any I've seen in a long time. Khenal would have a tough time matching her, and no chance at all in her chosen discipline. If she detects us, we're in a world of pain, hurt, and eventually death.
((Side note, I've finally worked out a way to end the hiatus of Friesden with this side story, as well as bumping off a few side characters that really need to meet their maker.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 06, 2011, 11:03:49 am
The Inquisitor, Amberly Vail http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Amberly%20Vail%2C%20Inquisitor.png
Psycho's lovely daughter, Lilac Joker http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Lilac.png
Charity's Journal 22nd Slate 99
I went down to the tailor's shop today to have a button sewn back onto one of Cryptson's shirts, but the tailor had locked the door and refused to speak to me.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Onol%20Lulargulnas.png)
Chairy's Journal 24th Slate 99
A horrible sound has come from the deep. The militia is on edge ready for anything the servants of Discord may throw at them.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Ned%20Geshakas.png)
Addendum: Well that was certainly anti-climatic, according to the reports I've gotten the creature came out through a small mining tunnel into a waiting ambush, Falcata bucked it once and then the marksponies fired on it. It went down without a fight. It was Istbar an unicorn from the Fortress Guard who fired the killing shot. Falcata got caught in some blast of boiling stuff, but it seems her armor protected her.
Addendum to the Addendum: Falcata has collapsed. Ironya is rushing her to the hospital as I write.
Addendum to the Addendum to the Addendum: Falcata took a quick nap in the Hospital, woke up, claimed she was fine and got up to go patrol, as she was supposed to do. I hope she's really okay.
(She isn't, http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Falcata%27s%20Stomach.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Entire%20fight..png)
Charity's Journal 26th Slate 99
Yesterday, the new Commissar informed me that Kil and her two colts had been murdered, and that Captain Crest Fire had also died and was probably connected. He said poor Nanges's and Bobrur's bodies had been arranged a sign of Chaos. He burnt their bodies. I'll set up a memorial for the two boys.
Lilac Joker was fortunate enough to be spared from this madness, however, she is now orphaned, I hope some pony will take her in.
However, with Psycho and Crest Fire dead, this puts me in an uncomfortable situation. My family only has two members of our personal guard left, Madush and Osal. And that isn't enough to protect me and my family at all times. Cryptson has been increasingly paranoid about the assassin, he doesn't allow the foals the freedom they need as children. We need even more than ever to catch this assassin. But in the meantime I need more guards, but I don't know who I can trust.
(
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Steel%20Crossbow.png)
)
Charity’s Journal 8th Felsite 99
I was down by the arena today, and saw Commander Starkey cleaning blood off the floor, it seems he had been fighting captured curdles in there. Or at least that's what I think those bloody meat piles were. I saw Falcata there as well. She looked sick to her stomach. For a soldier she has an strangely low tolerance for blood and gore.
(How lethal is a rotten stomach in dwarf fortress, and can it be successfully treated? Should I try to hurt Falcata, so she'll go back to the the Doctors?)
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 01:34:43 pm
Addendum to the Addendum: Falcata has collapsed. Ironya is rushing her to the hospital as I write.
Addendum to the Addendum to the Addendum: Falcata took a quick nap in the Hospital, woke up, claimed she was fine and got up to go patrol, as she was supposed to do. I hope she's really okay.[/i]
(She isn't, http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Falcata%27s%20Stomach.png)
((Uh-oh, that doesn't look good. :)))
Quote
(How lethal is a rotten stomach in dwarf fortress, and can it be successfully treated? Should I try to hurt Falcata, so she'll go back to the the Doctors?)
((Not sure actually. I had something similar happen to some ponies after a forgotten beast attack where their pancreas was rotten. They lived for some months before I got bored with the fort and stopped playing it. I don't know if it's fatal or not (I think not actually). You can try injuring her anyway if you want, I could just say it was a training accident or something. I've never actually had a doctor perform surgery on rot before, so I don't know if it'll do any good.
If she dies slowly and horribly, I can roll with that. If she dies getting reinjured, I can roll with that. Or she can live. We'll see, hehe.
I'll post her journal update when I get off work and have time to read the last few pages.))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 02:14:59 pm
"Oh, right. My apologies, Miss Rakel."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 02:37:29 pm
"Thankee kindly, taskmaster." was Rakel's response. With a sound like the rushing of wind, her presence disappeared. Schmutz wandered back into the room at this time, clutching an amulet.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 03:58:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:05:07 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 04:09:11 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:14:19 pm
"Aye. Oftentimes, when we had come particularly close to exorcising one of the daemons, they would compel their host to commit suicide, invariably with a bladed instrument bearing that very phrase."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:21:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:27:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:35:56 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:41:14 pm
Okay. I'm taking a risk with this, but it might be important.
"One more thing... there was a name that came up. I didn't think much of it at the time, but... what is Malal?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:43:52 pm
The name didn't ring any bells with me, and it seemed the Inquisitor didn't recognise it either. She shook her head, and said "I don't know. Presumably it is part of the name of a daemon."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 04:47:47 pm
"Now, how are we going to get rid of this thing? I can hardly stand to be near it, let alone get close enough to take a chisel to it."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 04:50:19 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 05:20:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:22:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 05:33:40 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 05:52:29 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 06:25:59 pm
As the wall crumbles to rubble, Lilac is seen behind said wall. She doesn't even flinch.
"Oh...look. A wall crumbled..." Says Lilac, not even caring.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:34:24 pm
"Uhh... g'afternoon?"
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 06:38:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 06:46:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 06:51:01 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 08:01:53 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 08:39:20 pm
Falcata's Diary - 24th Slate, 99
Today was probably one of the roughest days I've had here at Glitterglen. Mostly because I was nearly killed.
Early this morning the lower halls were filled with shrieks of terror. I happened to be stationed down there at the time, so I was the first to investigate. Something, no, a monster had come from the caverns below and was headed toward Glitterglen. For a moment I stood in awe and terror before my training did its job and I regained my nerve. Either that or the other guards arriving, anyway.
Without really thinking I charged at the monster, an enormous parody of the leeches that nearly drowned me not that long ago. I can't take much credit though, I only managed a single buck before it went down from a hail of bolts. At least I think that's all I did. I don't even know if the blow connected, because seconds later everything was engulfed by some sort of strange fog. It all gets kind of hazy at that point.
I remember waking up in the hospital. The doctors told me I'd been there a few hours, but they didn't find anything wrong with me, and I felt fine, so I went back to my post. I guess I got lucky. If the rest of the fortress guard hadn't showed up when they did, I might not be here right now. At least nopony was really hurt.
28th Slate, 99
Despite my fears, we haven't seen anything more of the monsters from below, and I think everypony is breathing a little easier. I'm a bit disappointed that I haven't had any opportunity to interact with the commissar yet, but I'm sure he's busy enough doing things far too important to involve me.
The day wasn't completely boring though. My stomach has been hurting me all day, but it's eased off a little bit right now at least. I didn't eat much this afternoon, maybe I'm just hungry right now. I'll ask Kris to bring a little something back for me when she goes to dinner tonight.
8th Felsite, 99
I feel terrible. The stomach pains have been coming and going for over a week now, and I haven't gotten much sleep. I'm starting to get a bit worried... I was up all night last night vomitting, and I think I saw some blood in it. I haven't eaten anything in over a day. I threw up my breakfast almost as soon as I ate it, and I had no appetite for lunch.
Captain Isos has had me on lighter duty lately at least. I think it's something to do with regulations and injuries. I couldn't be more grateful though. She had me stationed at the arena today, but after having seen Captain Starkey fight before I knew I wouldn't be needed to help. I did offer to help him clean up afterward though, which was a mistake. The duchess wandered by as the captain was finishing one of his duels, and the nausea struck me then worse than it had yet. It was all I could do to avoid vomitting right in front of her.
It would be a tragedy to embarrass myself in front of Captain Starkey, much less the duchess. Or, heaven forbid, embarrass either of them in front of the commissar if he happened by (the last few strokes are jumbled and illegible).
The pain is getting worse again... if I don't feel better in the morning I think I'll go by the hospital again and see if they have anything they can give me. I wouldn't want to be off duty for any reason if the commissar were to check up on me. I know he wouldn't let a stomach virus keep him down.
********
Kris' Diary -8th Felsite, 99
I'm really worried about mom. She hasn't eaten much in days, and she hasn't said much either. She keeps telling me she's okay, but I'm still worried. She always keeps her armor on its stand when she gets home at night, but today she just left it in a pile by the door. She sent me to dinner alone again tonight, saying she wasn't hungry. All she's done since she got home was sit at her desk and whisper to herself, rubbing her belly. I think she was even crying at one point. Mom has always been the toughest pony I've ever known. I'm really worried.
It's days like this I wish dad was here. He would know what to do.
Quote
However, with Psycho and Crest Fire dead, this puts me in an uncomfortable situation. My family only has two members of our personal guard left, Madush and Osal. And that isn't enough to protect me and my family at all times. Cryptson has been increasingly paranoid about the assassin, he doesn't allow the foals the freedom they need as children. We need even more than ever to catch this assassin. But in the meantime I need more guards, but I don't know who I can trust.
((I'm guessing this is somehow related to events from long ago, but how are you handling this? Just claiming that two of the fortress guard are Charity's personal guard? Falcata may be about to die of horrible gut rot, but even if she didn't I'm guessing she wouldn't be up for such a position. Charity doesn't really know her, and Falcata would never volunteer for such a position. She's a good little pony that takes what jobs are handed to her and doesn't push for anything more.))
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 09:09:40 pm
Lilac sighs. "I don't really care about anything anymore..."
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 09:33:46 pm
At the sound of a wall collapsing, she trots with what speed she can muster in its direction. She spots a filly sitting alone next to a pile of debris. With some effort, she asks," Wh-what's going on here?"
Edit: Typos...
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 09:36:40 pm
"Oh. Nothing really. Starkey just knocked down a wall in front of me. I don't really care." Says Lilac, without a hint of emotion in her voice.
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 09:40:14 pm
She stares in puzzlement for a moment.
"Captain Starkey? Why would he do that?"
She peers through the new hole in the wall.
((Looks like Dsarker is offline at the moment))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 09:42:52 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 09:47:20 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 10:06:23 pm
"I don't know...I don't care. My family is dead. Leave me alone." Growls Lilac, stomping outside to sleep.
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 10:16:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 10:40:40 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 11:00:50 pm
Her expression changes to obvious discomfort.
"I-I'm not interrupting anything important am I?"
She cursed herself inwardly. Of course the commissar was doing something important.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 11:03:03 pm
"Lilac, hun, come back!"
Otik trots off after the filly. Starkey extends a hoof, helping Falcata over the rubble.
"Nothing of the sort, seargent. We were just finishing up."
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 11:09:01 pm
"Thank you, captain. Can I be of assistance?" She glances to the commissar. "Anything at all, commissar. Err, sir."
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:10:54 pm
"We'll need to get some stone to finish this up, sergeant. If you could get us some, we can finish."
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:12:14 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 11:16:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:17:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 06, 2011, 11:20:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:22:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 11:24:55 pm
Falcata turns away from Captain Starkey and Commissar Abel and gingerly steps past the rubble. She heads for the stone stockpile. How much stone would they need? She probably wouldn't be able to carry much alone, not like this. Maybe she could get somepony to help. She cringed at another stab of pain. At least she had an excuse if she ran into Captain Isos.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 11:29:14 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:34:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:38:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:39:09 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 06, 2011, 11:40:59 pm
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:43:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:46:01 pm
"Bye, little miss." he said in a phlegmatic tone as he followed me.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 06, 2011, 11:46:34 pm
"Family or no, y' got folk who're more'n willing t' support ye. Me, Stars..."
She struggles a bit, searching for names.
"Auntie Friesden, Uncle Khenal... tha' poncy git with th' red sash..."
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:49:49 pm
((Gee, what could she want in the hospital? I SURE hope she doesn't hurt herself on the SHARP OBJECTS in there! HINT HINT))
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:50:43 pm
"Somepony left this on your desk, sir. It's addressed to you."
This got my hoof tingling, and I continued on to the hospital. There, Khenal and Friesden, the other two major possibilities in the investigation, were in a coma.
Post by: Telgin on December 06, 2011, 11:54:40 pm
((Yep, I'll be watching until somepony shows in the hospital, or something else happens to force Khenal awake))
((Falcata may be joining Khenal in the hospital soon, but I doubt she'll be waking him))
Falcata returns to the collapsed wall, pushing a small cart of stones with her magic. She grunts as the cart comes to a halt and steps aside, wiping some sweat from her forehead. She dearly hoped this would be enough, nopony seemed to be in much of a hurry to help her at the stockpile.
"Commissar? I brought...," she begins before noticing everypony is missing.
Post by: Khenal on December 06, 2011, 11:55:00 pm
"Broken..."
Post by: The Master on December 06, 2011, 11:56:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 06, 2011, 11:57:37 pm
"I...finally...understand...my...father..." she said in short pants, and then fell asleep again. I turned to Khenal, and watched as he woke from what appeared to be the same nightwoman.
This was not the best sign I'd had.
Post by: Khenal on December 06, 2011, 11:58:41 pm
"Wrong! No, what?!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:00:55 am
((Okay, you guys need to slooow dooown. I had to totally rewrite my post three times, I got ninja'd by so much.))
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:02:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 12:03:03 am
"What happened?" I asked her. She reached up to me and wore a grin I recognised. The grin of somepony I'd hoped never to see again. Emeli Duboir. I slammed her down without thinking. This was very, very bad.
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 12:04:08 am
"No, it's still broken!"
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 12:05:19 am
((You know, I sort of had a feeling you'd work Emeli into this somehow. :) ))
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 12:05:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:07:00 am
Otik discards the scalpel and siezes Lilac around the waist, dragging her away from any more sharp instruments.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:08:46 am
"SOMEPONY, KILL ME, PLEASE!!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 12:09:03 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 12:10:18 am
My horn flickers and sparks, as a spell starts to form and constantly fails.
"Leave it alone! No, let me do it! Stop it! We all know we should be unconscious, stop interfering! You stop! I don't trust you to do it right!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:12:54 am
She obliges, hoisting the flailing filly into the air and carrying her out the door.
"What have they done to her, Abel?"
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 12:14:50 am
"Captain? Are you there?"
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:16:33 am
***********
((Hope you don't mind, Khenal.))
Meanwhile, inside Khenal's mind, a tiny spark of Carrot is still inside.
'BUT I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING!' Hollers Carrot at Khenal inside his mind.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 12:17:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:20:23 am
((Starkey pulls a pair of dark spectacles from his brestplate, setting them on his face.))
(("This is an intervention."))
(("YYYEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAHHH"))
((I just had to do that. :P Entirely non-canon, of course.))
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 12:23:40 am
'No! We all know you did this, and we will not let you harm us further!'
"No! We all know you did this, and we will not let you harm us further!"
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:30:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:32:43 am
"D'you think if you just off yerself right now, Luna will take pity on ye, and let ye through th' gates t' see yer family? Well it don' work like that! Y'have ta work hard t'earn yer place among th'ancestors! Ye havenae even begun, an' I refuse t' let ye give up afore ye've even begun ta try!"
((Yeah, I think I'd be pretty lousy at trying to talk someone down off a ledge. :())
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 12:35:30 am
"No!"
My horn glows, and this time the spell fires off flawlessly as chains appear to bind Carrot and drag him from the mirror.
'You broke us, Carrot! We will not allow you to fracture us further!'
"You broke us, Carrot! We will not allow you to fracture us further!"
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 12:37:58 am
She takes a few deep breaths and heads for the stairwell. The pain has subsided slightly, thankfully. She began to reconsider... perhaps she should just return home, get into uniform and show up where she was expected. That would take... fifteen minutes? She might make it on time...
Yeah... that's what the commissar would do. She didn't want to let him down.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:38:43 am
********************
'...I have not...come this far...to be locked away now...YOU WILL LET ME GO, YOU INSIGNIFICANT PIECE OF DIOMEDIAN FILTH! YOU WANT TO BE STARK BUCKING RAVING MAD, FINE! JUST LEAVE ME THE BUCK OUT OF IT!'
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 12:44:07 am
"Fine!"
The chains dissapate as Carrot feels the familiar expulsionary force upon him. The Khenals all yell differing things at Carrot as the force increases: some yell for him to move on and accept the reward that surely awaits him, others damn him as worse than Cockroach, some simply say nothing. However, they all wish for Carrot to leave.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:51:12 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 12:52:50 am
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 12:55:34 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 01:00:57 am
"Leave it alone! You don't know how it should be!"
My horn glows brighter as the force continues to increase. The multitude advances on Carrot to remove the mirror shard from him and then remove him from my mindscape. Some apologize, some sneer, but it is obvious that none of them will allow Carrot to try to put the Mirror back together.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:04:08 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 01:12:41 am
"OUT!"
My horn flares brilliantly as the force begins to rapidly increase, showing no sign of stopping.
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 01:13:13 am
She grabs her hammer and levitates it to its sling. The weight was all but crushing as she took a few uneasy steps from the room into the hallway, nearly stumbling into somepony. She apologizes awkwardly and staggers off toward her post. Where was she posted again... the caverns? Or was it the entrance to the surface? No... that was next week. She groans audibly and heads up toward the surface. It would be easier going back down if she went to the wrong place first.
She was late... putting on her armor had taken three times longer than she anticipated. She just hoped the captain and commissar would forgive her.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:19:46 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 01:28:03 am
"Friesden..."
***************
Not sure if it's clear or not, but Khenal has been saying his dialogue in his head and in reality as well.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 01:31:37 am
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:33:50 am
'You love friesden. Go to her...please.'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 07, 2011, 01:34:54 am
((I'm guessing this is somehow related to events from long ago, but how are you handling this? Just claiming that two of the fortress guard are Charity's personal guard? Falcata may be about to die of horrible gut rot, but even if she didn't I'm guessing she wouldn't be up for such a position. Charity doesn't really know her, and Falcata would never volunteer for such a position. She's a good little pony that takes what jobs are handed to her and doesn't push for anything more.))
(Allow me to refresh everyone's memories on this. During Starkey's attempt to have then Countess Charity arrested, he sent Otik and three others from the Skyguard to get her from her bed. As you may recall Lieutenant Carrot intervened and defended her against great odds, and at immense personal risk. For his actions she made him a Captain, and split the Skyguard in half. One half was made of Otik and the three that followed her to arrest Charity, and the other Captain Carrot, and the other three, which did not attempt to capture her. (which now retroactively included Crest Fire.) While I don't think it was ever directly stated, Charity's motivation with creating this new squad, "The Wavy Passes," and moving Carrot in across the hall from her family, was to make sure she had one group she could count on as loyal to her if Starkey and Otik ever tried anything like that again. However, ever since the assassin struck she's been using Carrot's squad as her personal retinue of guards. However, someone, (The Master) keeps killing them all off, and she's only got two left.)
(Also, I think I'm going to try and re-injure Falcata, I'll try a short drop, (2z should be enough) and we can say she took a tumble down the stairs. Believable with the amount of pain she must be in. Assuming the fall doesn't kill her, it shouldn't, she'll wind up in the hospital where, she can die on the operating table as they try to remove her stomach. Sounds like FUN.)
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:42:08 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 01:43:17 am
"But Friesden can help us! We'll figure something out. We don't want to hurt her with us like this!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 01:46:37 am
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:50:41 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 01:51:00 am
'Friesden?'
"Friesden?"
The shards quiver for a moment.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 01:55:12 am
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 02:03:49 am
As for the surgery, Fun indeed! Interestingly enough, based on what I'm reading in other threads, she'll probably live with a rotten stomach for a long time without noticeable ill effect. It might cause infection and that might kill her eventually, but since she is quick to heal, probably not. Anyway, one tumble down the stairs coming up! We can work out the specific injuries once you try it out in game. Hopefully it doesn't break her neck, lol. Feel free to drop her a few times if the first go-round doesn't do the trick of breaking something.
Actually, it would be pretty hilarious if they completely removed her stomach and she recovers. Should be possible, based on what I've read.))
Falcata hesitates at the stairwell. She felt absolutely awful... even the thought of heading upstairs was about as unappealing as eating something right now. She looked down the other flight of stairs, trying to stabilize her wavering vision.
She took a step forward, and it hit her. She swallowed convulsively to try to settle her stomach, but there was nothing for it. She clenched her jaw, but the reflex was too strong and she noisily painted the floor in front of her with her meager stomach contents. The brief relief from the nausea was shattered as she opened her eyes, seeing a profuse amount of blood mingled in the bile. She shook her head and spat out another gob of partially congealed blood, trying to make sense of it through blurred vision.
Something moved in the peripheral of her vision. A red sash? Oh, no, the commissar was looking for her because she was late! He'd give her a flogging at the very least! She spun to face the phantom image.
"I... uh, c-commissar I w-was...," the statement trailed off as she stepped back into the puddle and lost her footing. With a startled shriek she slipped backward down the stairs, landing hard on each step and filling the stairwell with a chaotic cacophony of clangs of metal armor against stone steps. As she finally comes to rest at the landing, her chanfron was catapulted from her head, bouncing around and settling steps further down.
She moans in confusion and agony for several seconds before her vision slips into blackness.
((And with that, I'm off to bed. Reading back through that, it came out a bit more dark and twisted than I anticipated (and a lot longer to boot, it's as if I'm writing a freaking novel here), but oh well. Curse these ponies and their tendency to make me do terrible things to them. Oh, and I assume somepony would be kind enough to carry her off to the hospital? Guess that'll be whoever does it in game, considering everypony is busy with the ruckus going on in the hospital right now.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 02:11:24 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 02:19:18 am
'Never!'
"Never!"
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 02:20:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 02:33:22 am
Post by: Khenal on December 07, 2011, 02:49:56 am
"Something is wrong with Friesden. We need to sort this out quickly and help her!"
The Khenals begin to cooperate, slowly helping eachother assemble the Mirror.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 04:23:04 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 07, 2011, 10:22:34 am
One of our members of the guard, Falcata, has tumbled down the main stair well, the clanging of armor on stone could be heard echoing through the fortress, her right rear leg was broken in the fall, from the amount of blood it seems to be broken quite badly, however, our doctors have treated worse. An earthpony named Toltot, he works the furnaces all day down by the magma sea, helped Falcata get to the doctors.
25th Felsite 99
I've just read the report that Chief Medical Pony, Doctor Bubbles has given me on miss Falcata, the leg is fairly standard fair, but it seems that she has somehow contracted Advanced Stomach Rot, and he is unsure of how to proceed.
(After she was finally evaluated the Doctor's caught the stomach rot, it's been diagnosed, however, no treatment is yet scheduled. Will continue to monitor.)
28th Felsite 99
Our legendary tailor Onol, has finished a truly awe inspiring robe, fit for a Duchess. It will be the new standard of my office. I will wear it with pride.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Pleatabbeys.png)
5th Hemetite 99
Doctor Bubbles has released Falcata from the hospital, her leg has been treated and bandaged, but they seem to be unable to help the rot of he stomach tissue.
Edit: (Damn that Doctor Alen, he used Adamantine strands on Falcata's leg.)
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 07, 2011, 10:30:37 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 07, 2011, 10:38:42 am
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 12:11:54 pm
Anyway, I'm going to guess that the scene going on now will have long played out by the time Falcata is released from the hospital (or even wakes up), so journal time:))
Falcata's Diary - 23rd Felsite, 99
Some guard I am. Lately it seems the civilians have been helping me more than the other way around. I don't really remember what happened over the last day or so, but I somehow managed to fall down the stairs and badly break my right rear leg. The pain was pretty unbearable at first, but the doctors gave me something that's eased that off a lot. I need to thank Toltot for dragging my sorry behind down here.
I hate to think what the duchess, commissar or Captain Isos think about it all. Me clumsily falling down the stairs like that. I'm supposed to be an example for the ponies here. Worse still, imagine I'd fallen on somepony? That could have been a disaster. I was wearing all of my armor and I still managed to break my leg. An unarmored pony would have been crushed!
I feel like I broke more than that. I've got a knot on my head the size of my hoof, and I'm pretty sure I bruised some ribs. A few teeth are loose too, I hope that's temporary.
What really broke my heart though was when Kris came galloping into the hospital, bawling her eyes out. When she heard I was hurt, she dropped what she was doing and came running. It warms my heart to know she cares so much about me, but I care more for her and it pains me to see her crying like that. She spent the rest of the afternoon lying at my side, despite my recommendations she go get something to eat or get some rest in her bed. I'll be fine here, I assured her, but she wouldn't budge.
I suppose maybe I've done something right raising her, despite my mistakes. Her father would be proud of her.
25th Felsite, 99
I had a rude awakening this morning. With the pain killers the doctors gave me, I'd forgotten all about how much my stomach hurt, but that was back this morning which let me remember part of the events a few days ago. The pain isn't nearly as bad as it was, but it's only because of the drugs. And there is a pretty sickening reason for it. I knew something was wrong this morning when Dr. Bubbles was avoiding me, but he finally spilled it this afternoon. Thank goodness he waited until Kris wandered off to get some food.
He says he doesn't know where it came from, but something is seriously wrong with my stomach. He suspected something when I vomited up more blood this morning, which I suppose is a pretty bad sign, but I figured with all the vomiting I'd done I was bound to have hurt my stomach. He told me it's worse than that... it's as if my stomach is decaying.
He told me that there wasn't a whole lot he could do. He obviously can't excise the whole thing, and he's worried the necrosis has spread too far for surgery to be of any use. He said he could do some exploratory surgery to check, but in my state it might only make things worse or outright kill me. He gave me some more drugs that he says might help, but I could tell he wasn't too confident. I elected to pass on the surgery.
I'm... scared. I really am. I was sure that the stomach pains were just a virus, but this... (several wet drops stain the page, obscuring the writing) I never (more wet stains) was dying.
Kris knows something is wrong. I tried to hide it as best I could, but she's a smart filly. I won't tell her just now. I... need time to think about this.
5th Hematite, 99
Despite my fears, I didn't expire within a few days. The drugs Dr. Bubbles have given me seem to be keeping the pain... manageable. I still can't eat much, but as long as I take the drugs I can keep a little bit of food down. I'm not optimistic, he was pretty clear that it was only managing the symptoms, and unless my body was unnaturally strong the prognosis wasn't good.
I was a bit surprised to find that the doctors used adamantine thread to stitch up my wounds. Only the duchess could have authorized that, and I don't see why she would for a clumsy foal falling down the stairs and nearly killing herself. Unless she knows I'm dying and it's her way of sending her condolences?
I still haven't had the heart to tell Kris, but now that we're back home I think she believes everything will go back to normal. I only wish it was that simple. (Wet stains mar several words on the page) Heavens above I wish Estoc was here right now. I could use his strong embrace at a time like this.
((By Armok that was a long post. Hope you guys like reading about a character who isn't even really involved at the moment!))
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 08:40:49 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 08:44:28 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 08:46:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 08:54:19 pm
I stood there in the hospital. At least the corrupted mare was tied down. But we needed the Inquisitor here. I stood in silence as another mare was brought in, with injuries.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 08:59:27 pm
- - - - - -
Otik hoists Lilac onto her back and carries her off to the barracks.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:02:22 pm
Silence continues to be the only response.
Schmutz was there, and offered me a cup of tanna. I took it gratefully, and he turned to the captain and offered him the same.
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:04:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:05:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:07:19 pm
'Oh, come on! Rakel isn't even-'
Then Starkey notices Schmutz offering him a drink of... something. He takes it, taking a tentative sip.
'Ah, okay, I forgot about him.'
He takes his drink and sits in the farthest corner from the pair.
'There. is that better?'
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:12:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:15:42 pm
I told you to STAY AWAY FROM THAT THING.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:17:44 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:19:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:20:34 pm
"Well then," I said, trying my best to stay cheerful in tone. "Just do what you can to get better, okay?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:22:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:24:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:26:30 pm
"Good to hear, soldier."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:30:27 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:34:33 pm
"I-I brought... the stone... y-you asked for, s-sir."
She motions vaguely in the direction of the pulverized wall far away. "It's... it's at..." she trails off.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:35:15 pm
"Good job, soldier. You just stay here and rest, okay?"
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 09:37:08 pm
"PUT ME DOWN!"
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 09:39:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:42:32 pm
An idea strikes him.
'Wait... You know the construct Khenal used to seal his memories away? The one you destroyed? If we could use something like that to make her forget what happened while she was under the daemon's influence, would that help?'
- - - - - -
Otik carries Lilac into her own office, setting her gently on her bed and locking the door behind them.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 09:45:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:47:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:48:14 pm
- - - - - -
"No."
Her voice quavers. She has tears in her own eyes now.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 09:53:37 pm
((AH DERP!))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 09:57:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 09:59:37 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:07:46 pm
- - - - - -
Otik takes the dazed filly into her hooves, sitting on the bed. She clutches her to her chest, gently stroking her mane.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 10:19:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:22:18 pm
She rocks Lilac gently.
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 10:23:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:26:17 pm
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 10:27:49 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:33:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 10:34:09 pm
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 10:35:09 pm
((Brb for a half hour or so.))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:39:17 pm
Starkey gallops over to the bed where Khenal is resting, being careful to keep a good distance from Schmutz. He tries for several minutes to shake the alicorn from his stupor, unsuccessfully.
'Shit. Okay, plan 'b'.'
"Sir Abel! What do you know about mental magics?"
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 10:40:46 pm
"Mom?" she calls out, searching the room for her injured mother, completely oblivious to the commissar and militia captain.
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 10:43:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:46:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 10:47:50 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:51:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 10:52:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 10:54:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 11:00:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 11:05:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 11:07:59 pm
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 11:10:17 pm
((Just to make you aware of what I hope you all know, when you try to hold your breath until you pass out -assuming you manage- you'd simply start breathing again the moment you lose consciousness.))
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 11:18:41 pm
"Mom!" she cries, propping up against the bed. She takes in the blood covering her mother's face and leg, and her mouth hangs agape.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 11:19:22 pm
"W-Well that makes it easier, right? We can just sort of wean her off, instead of going cold alfalfa!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 11:23:24 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 11:25:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 11:30:21 pm
Post by: The Master on December 07, 2011, 11:31:56 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 07, 2011, 11:33:00 pm
"Mom... are you okay?"
Not at all, but she nodded feebly.
"I-I'll be alright. I... just hurt my l-leg."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 07, 2011, 11:36:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 07, 2011, 11:40:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 12:03:10 am
Post by: Khenal on December 08, 2011, 12:09:09 am
'Stop this, we need to help Friesden!'
"Stop this, we need to help Friesden!"
'But, um, how?'
"But, um, how?"
'Lack of careful planning is what got us into this mess in the first place!'
"Lack of careful planning is what got us into this mess in the first place!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 12:15:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 12:17:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 12:21:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 12:25:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 12:29:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 12:34:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 12:35:35 am
Post by: Khenal on December 08, 2011, 12:36:36 am
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 12:36:56 am
Post by: Telgin on December 08, 2011, 02:19:15 am
"I-I'm going to be o-okay, I p-promise."
Kris continues to frown and sniffles. She makes a motion to nuzzle her mother's nose but hesitates as Falcata winces and pulls back. The filly stares at her suffering mother for what felt like hours.
"O-okay, mom." She backs down from the bed and curls up into a knot at its side. There was no room next to her mom on the bed, and that would probably only hurt her more. "I-I'll be right here if you need me."
Falcata nods, a gesture that her filly couldn't even see, but speaking was more effort than she felt like she could spare. She lowers her head back into her pillow and lets the fabric absorb the tears and sounds of her crying. She never wanted to put Kris through anything like this. She bites down on the pillow to contain a scream that shot up her body.
Where in Glitterglen was a doctor? She'd give a year's salary to be free of this agony.
((And with that, I'm off. I'll edit Falcata's diary to match anything that happens while I'm away))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 08, 2011, 02:48:30 pm
My bodyguard Osal, his youngest daughter, a unicorn, has gone missing. Reports say she was on the surface, watching the fortress guard chase off a swarm of Parasprites, one minute she was by the pond, the next, gone. We suspect it was Diomedian foul play.
Sisters I can't imagine the horror the little filly must be going through, right now.
15th Malachite 99
It has come to my attention that a flood has occurred inside Khenal and Friesden's bed room. The entire room is underwater. Fortunately the door in their dinning room was enough to hold back the tide. We'll have to disable the flow to all the showers to diagnose the problem and allow the water to drain. I suspect something we missed also busted when Psycho's ghost caused that flood.
(Hold on, why is the water not draining? Ah, there it is. I found the engineering mistake. I forgot to dig out the last tile in the drain, to connect it to the hole that takes the water off the map.)
20th Malachite 99
It seems as if something was clogging the drainage pipes and causing an overflow. One of our miner's Granite has created a bypass, and water is now draining safety.
24th Malachite 99
We have taken measures that should slow the flow of water toward Khenal's and Friesden's home, and today we will finally we able to turn the water back on. And I'm so grateful 9 days without a proper shower is outrageous.
Post by: Telgin on December 08, 2011, 03:16:27 pm
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 03:22:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 03:24:52 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 03:25:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 03:30:27 pm
"When...when did you do this? Exactly?"
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 03:44:42 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 03:45:19 pm
((Only have a few minutes right now. I'll be back later for more.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 08, 2011, 03:46:41 pm
((Has anything changed about Falcata's condition? Developed an infection from the rot? That's the next step based on what I've read.))
(Nothing has changed yet.)
Lilac calms down, and looks up at Otik.
(Oh, you reminded me of the other thing I needed to write. I got distracted with the flood.)
Charity's Journal 17th Malachite 99
Lilac Joker visited me today. She was visibly upset. She yelled at me for awhile and then left. I hope she feels better after getting that out of her system. She's the last member of her family, and I think she might blame me for that. I feel for her. I know Starkey and Otik are trying to help her, but I don't think she quite accepts them as family yet. Perhaps in time.
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 03:49:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 05:20:40 pm
"I am half alive. The thing destroyed so much of me, and when it was torn away from me it took a part of what was left. I fear that within me there are still parts of it, fragments left like thorns in my soul."))
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 06:07:51 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 06:10:24 pm
Otik pulls Lilac in closer, burying her muzzle in the filly's mane.
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 06:17:23 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 06:21:42 pm
She is silent for a long time.
"I... I'm sorry I hit ye. Tha' was wrong."
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 06:28:18 pm
"It's alright...I'm s'sorry I tried to kill myself..." Says Lilac. Otik can't help but notice that Lilac is starting to sound like her a bit.
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 06:32:53 pm
At that point, the Inquisitor came in, and stopped. "What is that mare doing tied up over there?" she asked, looking at Friesden.
"She's been possessed," I answered. "They want to exorcise her."
She nodded. "I always hoped my time among the Witch-Hunters wouldn't be put to waste."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 06:45:11 pm
- - - - - -
"Okay, great. First, do you have anything made from adamantine? Anything at all, even a small trinket will suffice. And is miss Rakel with you? We'll need her skills as well."
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 07:03:08 pm
She smiled, and I began to dread what she would say next. "We need only to know the daemon's true name."
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 07:08:03 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 07:20:33 pm
- - - - - -
"Ye can go out an' grow up inta a fine mare, an' make me an Uncle Stars... an' yer mum an' dad... proud."
She tousles Lilac's mane.
"But right now? Ye can jus' give me a big smile."
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 07:27:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 07:30:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 07:44:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 07:52:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 07:53:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 08:04:06 pm
((I figure that besides the night, Luna's domain also includes death. So as a soldier who kills other ponies on a regular basis, and may very well end up dying themselves, it would be natural to pray to her for forgiveness and protection. Or failing that, to ensure that they'll be admitted into the afterlife.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 08:09:54 pm
Of course, by us, she meant me. I lugged the mare over there. It was very unnerving, and I wished that Schmutz was there. Eventually, I could put her down and wipe the marks she had made on me.
"Daemon!" called the Inquisitor. "In the name of the God Princess Celestia the Everpure and in the name of Luna the Thousandfold Cursed, I command you to come out!"
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 08:22:11 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 08, 2011, 08:32:13 pm
"I dunno, hun. Starkey acted like somethin' real important was happenin' there, an' he didnae want us around, in case-"
She hears voices in the barracks outside. She could pick out Starkey, Istlig, and that new stallion from yesterday morning.
The word 'daemon' was mentioned.
"...On second thought, why dun we go see 'er now? I think Starkey is done in there, an' lit'l Kris looked pretty upset. Maybe you two could talk?"
Post by: Telgin on December 08, 2011, 11:47:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 08, 2011, 11:51:34 pm
"What do we do? Maybe ask Keeper?"
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 11:53:33 pm
"HI! I'M LILAC!" Says Lilac excitedly.
Post by: Telgin on December 08, 2011, 11:55:50 pm
Post by: The Master on December 08, 2011, 11:58:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 08, 2011, 11:59:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 12:00:19 am
Her expression grows grim. "Wh-what? She just broke her leg, right?"
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 12:01:42 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 12:05:23 am
Falcata moans and turns slightly to bring the two into view. "What are you two talking about?" she says with difficulty.
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 12:09:43 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 12:11:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 09, 2011, 12:15:20 am
The Inquisitor said to each of us, as she passed out the sheets, "Just repeat the prayer transcribed here."
"I Deny The Ruinous Powers, and I will not suffer the Witch, the Mutant or Heretic to live." I read, as the Inquisitor started.
"I Believe in the God-Princess, Her in Canterlot, who United Ponykind under her auguring quest, and Ventured on the Great Crusade.
I Believe in the God-Princess, Who was Betrayed by Luna, the Favoured Sister and afterwards Thousandfold Cursed.
I Believe in the God-Princess, who Ascended the Golden Throne, to Guide and Protect Ponykind, and gave Her Divine Mandate to the High Ladies of Canterlot, so that they may rule until Her return and in Her Name, of which the sweetest of hymns are made.
I Believe in the Principial Creed, and all the Principial Laws, and I swear upon the Golden Throne itself to Abide by them." I continued.
"Hers is the Name of Order and Justice, Hers is the Reign of Glory. Ours is the Gift of Hers Providence. We give thanks in the Milliards every day, so that Her Heritage may Endure until She comes Again. We sing Her Praise in the Basilikas and on the Fields of Battle in a Million Unknown Places. Acolt."
"Acolt," Starkey repeated.
As the prayer finished, the daemon spoke again. Oh, how wonderful! Your voices are nearly perfect. But they could be enhanced so much if you merely gave in to me. Friesden's hoof stroked Starkey's side. Starkey shuddered, recoiling slightly from the touch. As I turned over the card, I found the hymn which, as a Commissar, I knew intimately.
"Before the swollen gaze of the Dark Eye, do I stand
I hold for She who long ago sacrificed for pony
I will yield no ground, I shall take no step back
In Her name and for Her will, I will never surrender"
"Pierce my flesh, break my bones, take my life
These matter not
In my sacrifice, ye of the Dark Gods shall know defeat
For even in Death shall we be triumphant in Her name"
"Lo! I have fallen in battle for She and her flock
Prepare my place, O Lady!
I shall stand by thee side until the End Times
Until Thy will be done"
"Take heed, ye who have surrendered to the Darkness
We shall be unbowed and unbroken
For where there is darkness, Her light shall shine
And the darkness shall retreat"
"We who have bled shall be redeemed
We who have fallen shall be exulted
We who have sacrificed shall be rewarded
We who have died shall be avenged"
"Stand, O warriors of the Princess!
Let no despair fall upon thy bless-ed hearts!
Stand and fight!
For it is by thy sacrifice that thee shall be remembered!!"
"By our deeds shall we be known
Let these deeds be a mighty sword from which She who rests upon the Throne shall wield
For with mighty deeds shall the darkness be thrown back into the Abyss
And in them will thee prevail"
"Take succor in Her strength
Steel thy soul with Her word
Armor thy personage in faith to She
Arm thy self with Her will"
"Suffer not the Unclean
Suffer not the Impure
Suffer not the Weak
Suffer not the Heretic"
"Amor Principissa!
Fiat Justicia!
Go forth in Her name and find victory!" I was cheered as we finished, hoping that the daemon might finally leave us.
Your devotion to your false princess is annoying, foals. That is the first thing I will change when I control you. was the daemon's response.
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 12:18:57 am
"Kris...your mom's dying..." Whispers Lilac; Falcata overhears however.
Post by: Khenal on December 09, 2011, 12:24:15 am
'That doesn't sound good at all.'
"That doesn't sound good at all."
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 12:28:26 am
Falcata's expression cycles through a rainbow of expressions, from pain to fear to sorrow. What should she say? "Wh-where did you hear such a thing?" she directs to Lilac, ignoring her daughter's plea.
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 12:34:24 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 12:47:59 am
She looks back to Kris and says, "O-of course, I just fell down the stairs. I'll be fine." She turns her eyes back to Lilac and adds, "D-dear, have you seen Dr. Bubbles today?"
Had she heard the filly right? Her stomach was... rotting? She'd never heard of anything of the sort, but as sick as she'd been...
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 12:59:31 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 01:13:02 am
Her thought was cut short by the nausea intensifying. She swallowed again and again to try and abate the feeling, but it was no use. She turned her head to the side in time to miss the children watching her, but to her surprise the sensation disappeared after a moment, followed by her mouth filling with blood. She coughed and hacked the sticky mass into the bucket by her bed and shuddered.
"Mom!" Kris cried, her eyes wide as saucers.
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 01:14:18 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 01:28:23 am
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 01:34:06 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 01:45:33 am
Kris is silent for some time. "I love you mom... please be okay..."
"I love you too..." Falcata looks up from the nuzzle with a pained expression and asks Lilac again, "Dear... h-have you seen Dr. Bubbles today? Or Dr. Alen?"
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 01:52:39 am
'I don't think that came out right...'
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 01:59:56 am
She sniffs back a tear of her own and continues, "But, I may be here a while, so she can stay with you all she wants." She begins to question the foal about her parents, but remembers the encounter in the hallway and decides it best not to. "Wh-who are you staying with?"
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 02:02:34 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 02:11:08 am
She adjusts her position, stiffling a cry as her weight settles on her ribs again. She releases Kris and says, "Why don't you two go find the captain or lieutenant? I just need a little rest right now."
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 02:14:45 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 02:24:19 am
Kris finally tears her eyes away from her mother and begins to follow Lilac. "Where are we going?"
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 02:28:08 am
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 02:31:27 am
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 02:36:01 am
"Huh, Otik must be out...I'll tell her in the morning, if you want to stay that is..."
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 02:40:06 am
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 02:44:21 am
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 04:21:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 09, 2011, 05:27:21 pm
"That sounded similar to Schmoe, but far more powerful."
'It sounded dangerous...'
"It sounded dangerous..."
'We can't let that run free.'
"We can't let that run free."
The Khenals nod, finally in agreement.
Post by: Dsarker on December 09, 2011, 08:43:21 pm
Oooh. How delicious. Go on, inquisitor. You smell so tasty.
Post by: Khenal on December 09, 2011, 09:15:46 pm
"What has happened? How did the trial finish?"
************************
I'm about to head off to some dnd. If you guys have stuff to do, just assume Khenal gets lucid after whatever happens. If the quiet trend for today continues, however, we can roll with this tomorrow or so.
Post by: Dsarker on December 09, 2011, 09:17:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 09:19:02 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 09, 2011, 09:25:38 pm
Well, i'm free today and t'morrow.
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 09:27:17 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 10:11:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 10:25:22 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 10:26:27 pm
"Are you alright?"
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 10:30:22 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 10:46:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 10:50:32 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:01:06 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:03:46 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:07:05 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:14:56 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:18:36 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:21:33 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:27:44 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:31:07 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:32:44 pm
"Ha, gotcha!" Laughs Lilac.
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:35:14 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:38:52 pm
"TO THE FOREST!!"
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:41:25 pm
Post by: The Master on December 09, 2011, 11:56:01 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 09, 2011, 11:58:50 pm
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 12:05:00 am
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 12:09:27 am
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 12:13:01 am
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 12:15:59 am
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 12:21:42 am
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 12:24:19 am
((Yep, she ditched poor little Lilac in the panic))
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 12:42:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 01:08:46 am
In came Otik. "What's the noise?" she said, before gaping at Friesden. Friesden's foreleg, now totally warped, stretched into a tentacle, which snaked its way over to Otik, who stood stock still, transfixed. It wrapped itself around her, and she collapsed, writhing in euphoria.
"Keep your hooves off her, BITCH!" yelled Starkey as he drew his axe. In one swift stroke, he cut off the tentacle. Friesden screamed in pain, and blood spurted forth from the wound. She reared back, and it was this point that Khenal entered.
"Friesden! No!" he cried.
For a moment, the mare's eyes changed back to what they were before, and the Inquisitor took this opportunity. She touched her sword to Friesden's flesh. The sword (which I found out later had been blessed by the Hierarch of Paintedtouched) set her flesh afire. The mare writhed in pain, her body unwarping. Her legs reformed.
"By the God Princess Herself, be ye cast OUT, daemon!" shouted the Inquisitor. The flames disappeared, and Friesden lay asleep.
"That's all we can do." said the Inquisitor. "We'll find out what happens when she wakes."
It was then that I heard a scream, as if from far off. I sighed. A commissar's work is never done.
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 01:26:30 am
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 01:28:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 01:29:48 am
We headed out into the forest, looking for the source of the cry.
I didn't see the diomedian as it snuck up on me. But Schmutz did, and with a loud cry, he shot it twice in quick succession. The once static face of his was smiling.
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 01:34:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 01:42:08 am
7 Anypony wishing to learn more of the filly's future are recommended to read 'Glitterglen: An Annotated History', by General Kris.
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 01:45:11 am
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 01:45:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 01:50:05 am
((AFK for the night. Telgin can take over.))
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 02:04:36 am
With the attacking diomedian slain, I took it upon myself to take stock of our surroundings. There were two dead diomedian ponies, the first expertly dispatched by my aide and the second more by luck on my part than judgement. And it seemed we'd come across the filly whose screams could be heard even back at Glitterglen8.
"She's a bit banged up, sir," Schmutz said, observent as ever. "But I think she'll pull through. A few busted ribs is all."
I'm no medicae, but I could see that he was right. She was rubbing at her side and her breathing was a bit off, but she seemed unharmed otherwise. I adjusted my cap and returned my crossbow to its sling. "Very well, then. Let's go see about getting this little filly a little medical attention." Unfortunately, she was still out of it, else she could have saved us all a lot of trouble in the coming hours, but I had no way of knowing at the time and so led us back to Glitterglen, feeling quite pleased with the outcome.
As I suspected, the site of Schmutz and I hauling the poor thing back into the fortress with an arrow jutting from my armor was quite inspiring among the locals and they flocked to me. I hushed them with a wave of my hoof and played myself off as the selfless savior they thought I was. "Would everypony kindly step back? This young filly needs to get to the hospital."
It worked like a charm, and they all made a berth for my passage, oohing and aahing as they always do.
8. How Abel was able to hear her screams from the barracks is a bit of a mystery. I certainly heard no such thing. We can only assume he is exaggerating a bit for dramatic effect, but the truth will likely never be known.
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 02:33:19 am
Moments later, Commissar Abel and the curiously dirty pony from before burst into the hospital, demanding a doctor urgently. Something about the pony he carried looked familiar...
"Kris!" she screamed, her voice croaking at the attempt at such volume. She scrabbled up onto her good hooves and tried to rise from the bed, nearly collapsing onto the floor as she did so. A nurse had set her leg by now, but even with the powerful pain fighting magic in her body it was barely tolerable. She limped over to the commissar, taking in the scene with horror.
The filly was moaning and clutching at her side, specks of blood in the corners of her mouth. She looked up to her mother, but immediately turned away, dried tears on her cheeks joined by new moisture forming in her eyes. "I-I'm so sorry... I di-didn't mean to... I..."
The commissar gently placed her onto an available bed. "Schmutz, go see if you can find a doctor, would you?" He looks to Falcata. "She's bruised a few ribs I think, she'll be fine."
As the pony complied, Falcata began to panic. "Kris, wh-what happened!? Oh, Luna..."
"W-we were playing in-in the forest..."
"We?" Abel questioned. "I saw nopony else."
Kris moaned again and nodded. "Li-Lilac was w-with me. S-she di-didn't c-come with you?"
"Clop," the commissar said levelly. "I'll be right back." He gallopped from the hospital, reaching for his weapon as he did so.
Falcata stood motionless over her suffering daughter, mouth agape. "Oh, Kris..." she began before breaking down into sobbing. The one time she wasn't around to protect her, this happens. She agonized over what to do, finally sitting next to the bed. "It's going to be okay, honey... I promise," she said, gently stroking Kris' mane.
"I-I'm sorry... mom," the filly said. "I-I shouldn't have..."
"Shh... it's okay," she answered, continuing to stroke her mane. "You're safe now."
((And that's it for today. I'll probably post a journal update for Falcata tomorrow. I think enough has deviated from my glossing over from before to update it))
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 02:55:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 06:25:46 am
We came to a small clearing. In the middle was a diomedian royal. I swore under my breath. He was holding a small filly, and a knife was at her throat. Held telekinetically was a sword, and I sighed. If we wanted to save the filly we'd have to duel this beast, and my bloody reputation put me in first order.
I drew my sword, slinging my crossbow as I did so. I stepped boldly forth into the arena, hoping I hid the fear in my body as I did so, and proclaimed "I am Commissar Anias Abel. If you want to harm that filly, you'll have to come through me."
With a sneer, the royal tossed the filly aside and faced me. "I am Dresguthor, pillager of Mittenknees, slaughterer of the Ten Hounds of the Princess, and ruler of one hundred cities. Face me, if you dare."
Well, I'm sure those names were supposed to mean something, but I never did find out. He charged me, and I sidestepped and slashed for the side, just blocked by his returning sword. I blocked the counter strike, and continued with the flurry of blows, each swiftly blocked by my adversary. He was a skilled swordspony.
But like all the Diomedians, he was undisciplined, and eventually left the cool, collected state that a swordspony needs for victory, and started maniacally attacking wildly. I countered, and my strikes started landing home, cutting or grazing him. Every strike seemed to leave him more crazed, and eventually he was no more likely to hit me than an elephant a fly.
I poised, waiting for when he would leave himself open, and he did. A brutal strike left his sword stuck in the ground, and as he lowered his head to raise it, I swung the fatal strike, cutting his head clean off. It fell and rolled on the ground. I dropped my sword and ran to the filly.
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 02:24:05 pm
With another dose of pain killing magic working through both of them, Kris had finally managed to slip off to sleep. Falcata managed to convince the doctors to relocate her next to her daughter, and she collapsed into bed. She was too worked up to sleep though, and at long last, she magically fetched a quill and piece of paper to record her thoughts.
Falcata's Diary Addenda - 23rd Felsite
I can't believe I forgot to mention that none other than Commissar Abel was here in the hospital as Toltot brought my sorry hide here. It seems his selfless reputation is well deserved, as he was checking up on the wounded like they were family. He personally wished me well, and if I hadn't been in such pain at the time I'd have probably giggled like a foal.
In other news, it seems that Khenal has finally awoken from his coma. He left the hospital while I was still sleeping, so I didn't speak with him, but I'm glad he's alright.
24th Felsite
Kris and I were woken by a young filly galloping into the hospital late tonight, who I was later to learn was Captain Carrot's daughter, Lilac. I can definitely see the resemblance both physically and in behavior now.
I didn't pay her much mind, even when she started talking to Kris, until she mentioned she knew what was really wrong with me. I hadn't spoken with any doctors today, so I had no clue what she was going on about, but she told Kris that my stomach was rotting. I thought she was just making things up or exaggerating like foals often do, but Kris was practically hysterical. It was all I could do to calm her down. Lilac dropped the point eventually after planning events after my death, and offered for Kris to join her elsewhere. After a little encouragement on my part, she did so, leaving me for the first time in over a day.
Hopefully she forgets about that nonsense. As soon as the doctors get a splint on my leg, I'll be out of here. I should bring up the nausea and vomiting with Dr. Bubbles though. Perhaps he has something he can treat it with.
25th Felsite
Today was... awful, to put it very mildly.
I thought Lilac was making things up, but when I finally spoke with Dr. Bubbles this morning, he admitted it was true. He can't explain it, but my stomach is somehow decaying. I knew I was sick... but I never expected that. He gave me some medication that has settled my stomach a bit, and I was finally able to eat a little something this afternoon, but he made it pretty clear that there was nothing more he could do. My body will have to fight it off if I'm going to live, and I could tell from his expression and comments that the odds weren't good. When I pressed him for more, he told me I probably had a few months to maybe a year to live. The decay was very slow, he said. Little comfort.
I decided not to tell Kris, hoping she wouldn't remember it at all. I felt numb. I still don't think it's settled in my mind that I'm dying.
I forgot all about that a few hours later when the commissar returned however. Much to my horror, he was carrying Kris, who was injured. The doctors came and found she had a few cracked ribs, but it was nothing she wouldn't recover fully from. That was a tremendous relief, but I still feel jittery about it. I barely managed to get anything but apologies from her, but she said she and Lilac were playing in the forest when a tentacle pony attacked them.
I was devastated that she would do something like that. If the commissar hadn't been there at just the right moment, she would be dead or worse right now, and that's something I can't even begin to think about. I owe him more than I can give for bringing her back to me. I must thank him next time I see him... I was too shaken up to do so while he was here. He ran off to go find Lilac once he discovered she was still loose in the wilderness somewhere. I dearly hope the filly is alright, if anypony can help her, it's him.
Kris has finally settled down and gone to sleep. She thinks I'm angry at her, and maybe I am. She knew better than to go out in the forest, and this is exactly why. I'm too upset and worried about her to be truly mad at her right now. Every time she wakes and groans, it tears at my heart. At least she's here where I can watch her again. I try to do everything I can for her, but I can't be everywhere at once.
I... just hope that I'll be here long enough.
((Armok's beard, that turned out even longer than the last one I think. I get a bit carried away writing these things!))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 10, 2011, 02:29:42 pm
((Armok's beard, that turned out even longer than the last one I think. I get a bit carried away writing these things!))
((That's fine with me, I enjoy reading these.))
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 02:35:51 pm
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 02:50:31 pm
"S-STAY A-A-AWAY!!!"
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 03:21:19 pm
((That's fine with me, I enjoy reading these.))
Quote from: The Master
((same here!))
((Well, that's good to know. :) In a way I'm a bit frustrated that Falcata is probably going to live through having her guts slowly turn into gak, since there's so much potential character development for her and Kris if she dies. Assuming a FB or something doesn't kill her, she'll probably be just fine. Which is why I pegged her at a year or so to live, that gives time for me to work in a way for her to survive.))
Quote from: The Master
The Filly was delicious, clearly having been traumatized by the monster.
"S-STAY A-A-AWAY!!!"
((Delicious?))
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 03:26:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 03:49:28 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
I was tired. I'd come close to death twice in the last hour. What I did then may have not been the best decision, but it was all I could think of at the time. I sheathed my sword and walked to the terrified filly. She stood still, shivering but too afraid to run. I lifted her carefully in my mouth, and started to carry her back to fortress. It was a long walk, but eventually we got there.
I dropped her in the fortress, and pushed her along. Eventually, we got her to the hospital, and left her there.
I headed to my room, intent on getting at least a few hours of sleep.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 10, 2011, 04:00:06 pm
Starkey cradles Otik in his hooves, on the verge of panic.
'Please, Celestia, Luna, please, tell me it didn't touch her...'
"...Otik... hun... are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 04:02:28 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 10, 2011, 04:09:00 pm
"But... how? Commissar Abel said it had never been done before."
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 04:11:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 10, 2011, 04:12:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 10, 2011, 04:17:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 04:39:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 10, 2011, 04:47:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 10, 2011, 05:27:05 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 10, 2011, 06:51:11 pm
It hits him: there is only one thing that could mean.
"No... y-you didn't..."
Post by: Khenal on December 10, 2011, 07:50:05 pm
"Why do I have no information on anything like this?!"
I pace, growing more anoyed by the moment at my lack of knowledge.
'Ponies do not just sprout tentacles!'
I shake my head, and leave my and Friesden's chambers.
'Istlig knows something. It's time I asked her what's going on.'
Post by: Telgin on December 10, 2011, 10:24:53 pm
Guilt wells inside her again. Her mom was so upset when she was brought to the hospital... she never wanted to see that look of horror on her mom's face again. She could stand her being angry at her, but this was something so much worse.
She prepares to turn over and return to sleep when she spies Lilac sitting against the far wall of the hospital. The guilt is replaced for a moment with elation. The filly had nearly gotten them killed, but she was very happy to see that she was alright.
"Lilac?" she calls, propping herself up with a bit of difficulty.
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 01:17:47 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 01:25:05 am
Okay, maybe there was more than one thing it could mean.
It was at this moment that Otik elected to wake.
"Ugh... Wha..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 01:36:18 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 01:37:06 am
I knock on the door.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 01:41:49 am
Starkey rushes to her side.
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 01:45:37 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 01:48:37 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 01:50:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 01:51:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 01:52:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 01:55:42 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:01:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:02:23 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:08:33 am
I open the door and step inside, a bit confused as to what's actually going on. I slowly make my way towards the triptych.
"Istlig? What's going on?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:13:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 02:14:17 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:18:30 am
I ignore Amberley and Starkey as I rush towards Friesden, concern for her plain on my face.
*****************
One of Friesden's legs turned into a tentacle and was chopped off, right?
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 02:20:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:21:15 am
Friesden appears to be in a coma.
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:28:21 am
"...What's going on here? The last thing I recall clearly before the hospital was the trial. Why did Freisden...mutate? Whatever that was?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 02:32:05 am
He gestures towards Vail with a hoof.
"Khenal, allow me to introduce Inquisitor Amberley Vail of Tailentranced."
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:37:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:40:34 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:46:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:48:43 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 02:56:34 am
"You forced it out? Without harming her?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 02:57:51 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:03:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:09:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 03:09:45 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:11:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:13:45 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:18:52 am
'Friesden? Can you hear me? Are you alright?'
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:20:20 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:27:03 am
"I hope she really is alright. That wall looks like she either learned mental defense in a hurry, or... Anyway, what else have I missed? Inquisitors don't usually just announce who they are."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 03:28:14 am
"What? I saw her come in earlier with Officer Falcata's filly, Kris. They were both asleep last I saw."
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:31:04 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:34:16 am
"That's...very bad. Is there anything I can do to help?
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:37:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 03:38:37 am
Immediately, she comes flying out.
"They're nae here!"
"What? That isn't possible, we've been here the whole time you were out! Milady Vail, did you see the two fillies leave?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 03:44:09 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 03:48:21 am
I ask, walking over to the door to peer inside.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 03:54:44 am
"Aye, I'll go ask around."
She leaves. Starkey turns to Khenal.
"You remember Lilac Joker, Carrot's youngest foal? She... she's staying with us now."
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 04:11:00 am
I look around the room for signs of a struggle or traces of magic, only half paying attention to what Starkey is saying. Figuring out where they are now is more important than why Lilac is spending the night with Starkey.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 04:14:26 am
*sigh*, "Kil is dead, Khenal. And so are her two colts, Lilac's brothers. All murdered, in... the most brutal way. She doesn't have anypony else."
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 04:19:40 am
"How...Who...What?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 04:22:17 am
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 04:34:01 am
'Cruel as it sounds, you can't help them if they're dead. And these fillies may still be alive. Focus!'
I steel my gaze and resume inspecting the room the fillies were supposed to be in for anything unusual, magical or mundane.
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 04:36:53 am
The beds in the room are both messy, and one of them has a red wool hat on it, Lilac's favorite. The room itself is fairly normal besides that.
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 10:16:49 am
Kris wakes to a dull pain in her side that fluctuates with each breath. Everything is a bit hazy, a side effect of some magic the doctors had used on her, but she eventually works up the courage to look over to her mother. Falcata is asleep, but her face still bears the troubled expression she had worn since the commissar had brought her here.
Guilt wells inside her again. Her mom was so upset when she was brought to the hospital... she never wanted to see that look of horror on her mom's face again. She could stand her being angry at her, but this was something so much worse.
She prepares to turn over and return to sleep when she spies Lilac sitting against the far wall of the hospital. The guilt is replaced for a moment with elation. The filly had nearly gotten them killed, but she was very happy to see that she was alright.
"Lilac?" she calls, propping herself up with a bit of difficulty.
There is no response.
"Lilac?" she insists, with greater volume.
Still no response. Kris starts to rise from bed, fear beginning to grow inside her. "Lilac, what's wrong?" She starts to hop down, but a mare in barding bursts into the hospital, searching the room frantically with her eyes.
"Where is she? I 'eard she wos in 'ere!" the mare bellows.
"Lilac? She's over there", Kris answers, pointing at the stricken filly with some trepidation.
The mare, Otik, she thinks her name is, dashes over and throws her hooves around the filly. "Oh Lilac, wot happened to ye? Are ye alright?"
Kris works up the courage to hop out of the bed and trots over. "Is she okay? She wouldn't talk to me..."
Otik studies Lilac's blank expression and gives the filly a gentle nudge. "Lilac? Speak to me, wot's wrong?" She looks over to Kris. "Wot happened to 'er?"
Kris looks away sheepishly. As mad as her mom had been, Miss Otik would surely be furious. "I-I'm sorry Miss Otik... we-we were playing in th-the forest."
The mare's eyes go wide. "Oh, sisters..."
"But we were saved by somepony that wore a funny hat. I think mom calls him Abel."
"Poncy git? Big hat? Red sash?"
Kris nods. "Yeah, that's him."
Well, whoever saved them, that didn't matter right now. Otik looks back to Lilac, who hasn't so much as blinked since she set hoof in the hospital. She notices a few shallow cuts along the filly's body, and a nasty gash along her side. "Why 'asn't anypony treated 'er yet?"
Kris shrugs and rubs at her aching side. "A doctor was in here a little while ago. He gave me something to drink that made my side hurt less." She rolls her eyes and thinks. "That was before I fell asleep though..."
There was no time for this foolishness. What kind of doctors leave a hospital unattended with injured children in it? Otik stands and hurries over to the nearby cabinets and begins rummaging through them. It had been a while since she'd had to perform first aid of any sort, but anypony could clean a cut and apply a bandage.
In her haste, she knocks over a box of things she didn't recognize and didn't particularly care about right now. The clattering of strange metal instruments against stone echoes through the hospital, and Falcata cracks her eyes with a weak grunt. She spots Otik hurrying back over to Lilac and croaks, "Lieutenant Otik? What's going on?"
"Lilac's hurt and there's nae a doctor in sight!" she responds, beginning to tear a piece of gauze to bandage Lilac.
Falcata tries to rise in bed, but catches halfway. She clenches her jaw and fights back a cry before giving up on leaving the bed. "How bad is it?"
"She's got a few cuts, but she'll be alright." Otik begins to wrap the gauze around the now cleaned cuts and notices the lack of blood flow. She pauses for a moment, her mind not want to admit what she's seeing. "Oh, sisters... Luna... Celestia..."
"What?" Falcata asks, propping herself up to get a better look. There is no response from Otik. Her own pain seemed a bit irrelevant at this point, and she forces herself out of bed with significant effort. "Lieutenant, what is it?"
Otik begins to cry softly as she pulls Lilac in closer. "Why... why did this 'ave to happen to ye?"
Falcata begins to limp over as Kris backs away from the scene. "I-is she okay, Miss Otik?"
Otik shakes her head and continues to embrace the filly. "She's... she's..."
Falcata crouches next to the two as Kris clings to her. She places a hoof on Otik's back and takes a closer look at Lilac. "It... doesn't look too bad..."
Otik can barely bring herself to utter the next word. She lowers her head and gives the filly another squeeze. "...undead. Jus' like 'er father..."
Falcata gasps and looks back to Lilac. "I... but... she's..." She had never encountered the undead before, but she knew of them. She half expected the wilds around Glitterglen to be filled with the monstrosities when she arrived, but was thankful to find that at least some of the rumors of the place were just that. Rumors. Regardless, Lilac didn't look anything like the undead as far she was aware of. "How?"
Otik looks her squarely in the face and exclaims, "I-I dun know!"
Falcata raises an eyebrow. "Wait... this happened to Captain Carrot before? He... seemed fine, last I saw him."
Otik wipes her eyes and says, "I-it happened a couple of times... He'd die, then get better, then die again..."
Kris cowers behind her mother, disbelieving what she is hearing. Falcata shakes her head. None of this made any sense... the filly looked traumatized, not cursed with eternal unlife. "I-I don't understand... how can you get better from that?"
Otik's face is plastered with frustration and fear. She opens her mouth to speak, but the hospital door slams open abruptly. Dr. Alen wanders in, walking in irregular wobbles and carrying a bottle of something in his mouth. He pauses after a few steps, turns to look at the knot of frightened ponies, and puzzles at them. "Wha... what the hell are hospitals doing in my mare?"
Finally a doctor! Falcata rises to her feet and turns to face the new arrival. "Doctor! Can you take a look at Lilac? There's something wrong with her..."
Dr. Alen's eyes uncross for a moment as he brings them into focus. "Shet up, mare! Don't you dare tell me what to do!"
Falcata blinks in confusion. "Doctor... I-"
"This is... this is... this is my hospital! Go and get yer own!" Dr. Alen snorts and takes another swig from his bottle.
Otik stands, letting her mane hang in her face carelessly. Was this pony serious? She wasn't going to take much more of this...
"Doctor... sh-should you be drinking while on duty?" Falcata asks.
He glowers at her and snorts again. "I'm the doctor here. I'll decide what I doing to be ought!"
Otik begins to walk toward him. "I dun' give a damn.... if it's her majesty's own hospital!"
Dr. Alen rolls his eyes and tries to stabilize himself. "What 'her' majesty? It's his majesty, you filly! And didn't you hear me? Get!"
Otik bares her teeth and lets out a low growl. "You... will treat this filly this instant!"
"She's fine... just slap a bandage on her... somewhere," the doctor replies, waving a hoof randomly in Lilac's direction.
Falcata scowls and snatches the bottle from the inebriated doctor with a flare of magic from her horn. "I think you've had enough, doctor. Where is Dr. Bubbles?"
Dr. Alen grasps feebly for the floating bottle as it's taken away. "Hey! That's my bottle, you mare!" He gives up after a few wild grabs and staggers backward. "Get, all of you! This is my hospital, I won't have you clogging it up with sick people!"
Otik notes the bottle hovering gently nearby and snatches it from the air with her mouth. She smashes it against the nearest cupboard and points the jagged glass at Dr. Alen. As she begins to step toward the doctor, he backs into another cupboard and knocks a piece of glassware down, which smashes against his head. "Oww! Dammit!"
This was getting out of hand... Falcata steps up behind Otik and says, "Lieutenant, wait... let's not start something we'll regret."
"You... are a doctor. Get off yer sorry arse... and tell me what's wrong with my child!" she insists, taking another step closer.
Falcata takes a step back. She was in no position to prevent Otik from picking a fight with the doctor, and she didn't want to get herself or Kris hurt any worse if it came to that. "Lieutenant..."
"Ye don't have any children! You're single!" the doctor scoffs.
Falcata dislodges Kris from her leg and says, "Kris, go back to our room. I'll come get you in a minute." Kris hesitates, staring at Otik and the doctor. "Go!" she insists, giving the filly a nudge.
"O-okay!" The filly takes a few cautious steps toward the door before trotting off down the hall. Falcata immediately cursed herself for not telling her to bring Captain Isos instead. She really hoped this didn't turn violent... Lieutenant Otik had more sense than that...
Her attention is drawn to Dr. Alen stumbling forward a step and collapsing. Had Otik struck him? No, Otik still stood well out of range. She cautiously approaches the doctor, noting that the drink that had leaked from the broken bottle smelled extremely strong... almost acrid. "Doctor?"
His eyes are wildly out of focus as he begins to mumble incoherently. "I can see the palace..." He chuckles. "So... beautiful...."
Falcata nudges him and repeats her question. "Doctor, can you hear me?"
Otik spits out the improvised weapon and snorts. "Drunk out 'o 'is mind."
"Yes... I think you're right." Falcata begins to examine him, noting that he's completely oblivious to the world. "Too much... maybe..." Her heart rate begins to hasten. The last thing they needed right now was for Dr. Alen to die of alcohol poisoning.
She prepares to hoist the inebriated stallion onto a nearby bed when a knock comes at the door, moments before the smell of unwashed socks. "Hello, is anypony there?" a voice calls. A few moments later, the door creaks open, followed by the commissar's aide walking in.
Dr. Alen immediately recovers and begins backing away from the new arrival. "God-princesses above! Get... get away from me... get away from me!"
The grime covered pony scratches his head. He turns to look at Otik and asks, "What's his problem, miss?"
She scowls at the flailing doctor and replies, "Drunk. Is th' booze talkin'."
As the two continue to speak and ignore the bundle of insanity scrabbling around on the floor, Falcata notes the pieces of the shattered bottle lying around on the floor, mostly intact. Something was off about the smell of the stuff... where did he get it? She begins to piece the bottle back together.
Otik notices her set to work and raises an eyebrow. "Err, sergeant, wot are ye doin'?
She shakes her head and replies, "I... don't know. I'm not sure that was just alcohol." She finishes piecing the bottle back together and levitates it in front of Otik. The doctor continues to babble and shout as Schmutz inspects him closer.
Otik takes a glance at the bottle, seeing nothing interesting about it. "Alright... ye can fix it. So? Are ye hurtin' fer bottles?" Lilac was undead, Dr. Alen was stark raving mad, and now Sergeant Falcata was taking an interest to the bottle? Had everypony lost their minds?
Falcata sniffs the bottle, smelling the acrid odor again. She hobbles over to the doctor, favoring her injured leg. "Doctor, what were you drinking? Where did you get this?"
He takes a moment away from cowering from Schmutz to reply, "I-I don't remember! Th-they gave it to me!"
"Who?"
"I don't know!" He scrabbles backward again from Schmutz and adds, "Keep the hole away from me!
Schmutz grabs the doctor and shouts, "You tell the lieutenant and sergeant right now!" The doctor only replies with panicked shrieks and tries in vain to wriggle away.
Otik growls under her breath and takes a step forward. "This is gettin' us nowhere. Yer not gonna get anythin' else out o' him 'till he's sober. Try again t'morrow mornin'."
Schmutz drops the doctor and turns to the two mares. "Anything I can do, ma'am?" he asks Otik, deferring to the highest ranking of the two.
"Get 'im out o' 'ere," she replies immediately.
Falcata nods. "If he was drunk while on duty, I think that alone is worth enough a night in jail." She instinctively reaches for her jail keys before realizing they were with her barding... wherever the doctors had taken that to. "Do you know where the jail is? See if you can find him a cell for the night. Captain Isos should be able to help you if you run into any trouble."
As Schmutz scoops up the sobbing doctor, Otik adds, "And see if ye can find a real doctor!" Otik resists the urge to shout something uncouth at the doctor as he is hauled away from the hospital. Unbelievable, that stallion. She begins to turn back to Lilac when she hears Falcata call the filly's name.
She finds the filly blinking blankly as she sits against the wall. "Yes?" Lilac asks, blinking again.
At the sound of Lilac's voice, Otik rushes over and envelopes her in a crushing hug. "Oh... Lilac..."
Falcata wanders back over and kneels beside Lilac again. "Honey, are you okay?"
The filly blinks idly again and frowns. "I... feel wierd..."
Otik releases the hug. "Wierd how, hun?"
"I normally feel my heartbeat, but..." she begins, reaching for the vein in her neck.
Otik pulls her closer again and begins to nuzzle her. "It's nothin', lit'l one. Yer okay now..."
Lilac ignores the mare and continues to feel her neck. An expression of utter terror washes over her face as she feels nothing. "Am.. am... am.. I..."
"Lilac, look a' me... dun' panic..."
"Buh... buh..." the filly begins, eyes wide in fear. Tears begin to form in the corners of her eyes, and she lets out a sniffle.
"Stay calm hun, breathe..."
Lilac bursts into tears, sobbing uncontrollably. Otik presses her into her chest and begins to join the crying. "Shh... hey, c'mon now..." she manages at last.
Falcata forces a weak smile at last, completely baffled at what to say or do. This is far beyond anything she was familiar with. "You're going to be fine, honey."
"I'm dead!?"
Otik nuzzles her again. "I know yer scared hun, 'cause I'm scared. But.. everythin's gonna be alright. Yer gonna be okay. We'll find a way t' fix this, and you... you'll be okay. But I need ye t' be brave fer me, hun. I need ye t' be brave, so I can be brave, okay?"
Falcata strokes Lilac's mane gently. "You're here talking to us, aren't you? I don't think anypony that's dead can do that."
Lilac sputters something and begins to hyperventilate. Her eyes roll back in her head and she finally goes limp with a sigh. Otik panics for a moment and shouts something incoherent before realizing that Lilac is still breathing.
Falcata swears under her breath. "Where's a real doctor when you need one!?"
Otik ignores the statement and gently places Lilac on the nearest available bed.
"Wait.. Lieutenant, you've seen this before. What do we do?"
She shakes her head and wipes her eyes and nose. "I... I dun' know. I never found out how Carrot got better."
The silence that follows is deafening. Finally, Falcata asks, "W-would Capt - I mean Khenal be able to help? Wasn't he good friends with Captain Carrot?"
"Aye... he was. Way I hear, he wos there every time Carrot... died? He should know if anypony does."
Falcata looks to the empty bed where Khenal was last and nods gravely. "Good... but I have no idea where he is..."
Otik raises a hoof to her head. "Las' I saw 'im, he was in th' barracks with Star... th' Cap'n."
Falcata takes a step toward the door and freezes as a jolt of pain rolls through her body. She clenches her teeth and sucks in her breath . "We... should go... get him... then..." she manages between pained breaths.
Otik shakes her head and points a hoof to Falcata's bed. "I'll go get 'im. Yer in nae condition t' do anythin' but rest. Stay here, lie down an'..." She points back to Lilac. "Watch 'er fer me?"
Falcata lowers her head and nods. "You're right, of course." Overreaching herself is what got her here in the first place. She climbs back into bed with some effort. "I'll keep any eye on Lilac. Oh, and would you mind telling Kris it's safe to come back here?" She would hate for Dr. Bubbles to show up looking for them and she not be here.
"Aye, I'll send 'er," Otik replies as she heads for the exit.
Falcata smiles weakly. "Thank you, lieutenant." As Otik steps out, she collapses in exhaustion and watches Lilac's motionless body. At least the foal was still breathing. She wasn't sure she was looking forward to Khenal diagnosing the child, and especially didn't want Kris to get too worried over it.
None of this made any sense to her...
((Edit: spelling))
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 12:35:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 01:58:17 pm
My horn shines as I levitate Lilac's hat and scour it for strands of hair.
*******************
Looking forward to the IRC transcription as well.
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 06:13:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 11, 2011, 07:16:20 pm
"Otik once asked me if I could track somepony. You remember my answer, Captain?"
I smile at Captain Otik as my horn begins to glow with my tracking spell. The hair bends into an arrow and quickly begins to turn in air, before slowing and coming to a stop.
"Let's go find these fillies before it's too late!"
**********************
I'll be heading out soon, so Impending or Dsarker can take over Khenal if it's needed. No offense, The Master.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 07:33:07 pm
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 11:02:30 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 11:03:51 pm
"Kris? Are ye in there? Yer mum says it's okay t' come back now."
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 11:06:08 pm
"Is everything okay, Miss Otik? Is Lilac alright?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 11:09:22 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 11:21:21 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 11, 2011, 11:38:15 pm
She turns and heads for the barracks.
((Dsarker: If you would do the honors of playing Khenal?))
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 11:44:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 11:52:37 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 11:54:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 11, 2011, 11:54:47 pm
Post by: The Master on December 11, 2011, 11:56:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 11, 2011, 11:59:45 pm
"You're not dead... how could you be moving and talking if you were?"
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 12:01:27 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 12:04:44 am
"It's... it's going to be okay. Miss Otik said she knew somepony who could help you." She forms a small smile.
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 12:07:45 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 12:15:06 am
She grabs Lilac and tries to hold her still. "Lilac! Calm down! You're going to be okay! Miss Otik is on the way here now!"
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 12:23:23 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 12:28:31 am
It takes all of the magical strength she has to keep Lilac from hurting herself, but she brings her a little closer. Time to try a different approach.
"Lilac? Please, you've got to calm down... you're going to be okay..." she begins in a soft tone.
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 12:30:09 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 12:35:40 am
She pushed the thought aside. Keeping her in the air like this was getting very hard... how did unicorns lift big things? Then a thought hits her: her mom is a unicorn, maybe she knew a spell that could help!
Kris struggles to keep Lilac aloft as she bolts to her mother and urgently tries to rouse her.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 12:36:24 am
"Stars? Where did mister Khenal go? I need t'see 'im."
"He's just in Lilac's bedroom. What happened, did you find her?"
"Aye... but somethin's wrong. Tha's why I came lookin' for 'im."
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 12:39:41 am
"I think I can find her now!"
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 12:47:39 am
She was supposed to be watching Lilac! She immediately props herself up in bed and sees that Lilac is missing from her own bed. It only takes a second for her to see Lilac floating next to Kris a few steps away, idly bashing her head into nothingness.
Kris begins to tear up. "Mom, help! I-I don't know what to do!"
Neither did she. "G-give her to me!" She scoops Lilac up with her own magic as Kris' magic fails. "Lilac? What's wrong?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 12:52:15 am
"Sorry lad, she's already been found."
"Who... oh! Aye, she's in th' hospital. Would ye come with me, mister Khenal? There's somethin' wrong with 'er, an' yer th' only one I know who c'n help 'er.."
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 12:53:54 am
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 12:54:57 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 01:01:11 am
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 01:02:58 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 01:06:54 am
Otik turns to leave, and Starkey falls in behind her.
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 01:08:33 am
"It's okay..." she repeats softly.
Kris sniffles quietly to herself and moves to the other side of the bed, out of sight. She felt terrible about what was happening... she didn't even want to look.
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 01:09:11 am
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 01:10:35 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 01:30:01 am
"Shh, it's okay hun. I brought somepony who can help ye. Y'remember mister Khenal, aye?"
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 01:31:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 01:39:26 am
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 01:40:16 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 01:42:31 am
Starkey connects the dots.
"Oh. Oh... Sisters, does it... run in the family?"
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 01:44:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 01:49:52 am
The shard of glass flies perfectly through the air, landing deep in Starkey's flesh. Strangely, he feels happy instead of feeling pain.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 01:57:16 am
Starkey pokes at the shard embedded in his chest.
"Wow, that's... deep. That's quite the arm, Lilac!"
"Stars? hun, yer bleeding."
"I am? Aw, not on my good shirt!"
He pulls out a cloth and tries to mop up as much blood as he can. Finding the glas shard in his way, he pulls it out, and promptly falls to the ground wailing in pain.
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 02:00:52 am
"LEAVE ME ALONE YA BUCKING SON OF A-"
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 02:02:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 02:06:24 am
"Lilac Joker! Dunnae ever let me hear ye use language like that! What's gotten into ye, girl?"
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 02:08:39 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 02:12:08 am
While Otik is lecturing Lilac, she hops down from the bed and starts to inspect Captain Starkey. The wound was starting to bleed more...
Kris is now scrabbling away from the injured captain.
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 02:12:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 02:15:59 am
Starkey uses the small cloth to apply pressure to his wound.
"W-Why... didn't I feel that? I should have... been on the floor... as soon as I was hit."
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 02:17:52 am
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 02:25:54 am
Kris continues to keep her distance. She really wished some of the grown ups would calm Lilac down...
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 02:33:03 am
((i'm going to bed, g'night everypony!))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 12, 2011, 02:43:43 am
"Can ye help 'er, mister Khenal?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 02:45:00 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 12, 2011, 03:50:50 am
"WHAT THE CLOP IS GOING ON HERE?"
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 01:12:22 pm
"Oh, doctor, good... Captain Starkey is injured."
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 08:00:31 pm
Khenal built up an electric charge in his horn, before directing it at Lilac's chest.
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 08:21:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 12, 2011, 08:42:54 pm
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 08:49:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 12, 2011, 11:04:20 pm
"Lilac? I'm here, it's going to be okay..."
Post by: The Master on December 12, 2011, 11:19:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 13, 2011, 12:40:39 am
Post by: Telgin on December 13, 2011, 12:51:32 am
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 12:55:40 am
Post by: Telgin on December 13, 2011, 01:10:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 13, 2011, 01:26:30 am
"W-What do ye mean? Ye done this before, haven't ye? Why didnae it work this time?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 13, 2011, 01:29:28 am
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 01:43:16 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 13, 2011, 01:51:36 am
Post by: Telgin on December 13, 2011, 01:54:23 am
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 05:27:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 08:15:44 pm
"It's...hard to say, little Lilac. Your father had a similar condition for awhile, and seemed fine. I would like to check something, though. If you don't mind?"
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 08:19:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 08:26:00 pm
"Thank you, Lilac. I'll be careful. And please, try to relax. I promise I wont hurt you."
I finish and cast the mental link, preparing to search young Lilac for daemon influence.
Post by: Telgin on December 13, 2011, 08:31:59 pm
Truly if anypony could help Lilac, it was him.
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 08:39:55 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 08:43:26 pm
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 08:50:59 pm
((not cockroach))
'Well, well, well, if it isn't my ol' buddy Khenal! Remember me? THE ONE YOU PUT DOWN?!'
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 08:57:49 pm
'How are you here? You died, you should be Beyond, not here!'
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 09:06:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 09:11:34 pm
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 09:38:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 09:46:44 pm
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 09:55:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 10:01:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 10:10:08 pm
'Hey, it's not that easy pal! See, here's the deal. I killed ya first friend, now i'm going to kill this one as well. Dig?' says the sinister voice.
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 10:16:37 pm
I turn my head to address Lilac gently.
'May I untie myself, Lilac? Remember, this is your mind. He has no power but simple bluster if you don't give it to him.'
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 10:28:07 pm
Khenal feels a slap go across his face.
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 10:35:07 pm
'You always did have a gift with lies. You control nothing, Lilac just needs to remember that.'
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 10:40:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 10:47:49 pm
I again turn to Lilac and gently address her.
'May I untie myself, Dear Little One?'
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 10:51:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 10:53:54 pm
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 11:14:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 11:20:49 pm
'That's a good filly. Don't worry, we can both get him out of here.'
My horn flashes as the rope unties and lays at my hooves.
'So, Apple. The young filly would like you to leave.'
Post by: The Master on December 13, 2011, 11:50:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 13, 2011, 11:58:36 pm
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 12:02:12 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 14, 2011, 12:02:58 am
'Whoa there, I might have a better plan!' Says Lilac in Apple's voice, 'I want Khenal to leave and Apple to control my every action!'
((Apple? Could someone remind me who this is? I don't recall an Apple. I had thought this was Psycho Carrot, bound into Lilac, but now I'm confused. Could someone please refresh my memory?))
Post by: Telgin on December 14, 2011, 12:05:59 am
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 12:10:17 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 14, 2011, 12:12:57 am
((A daemon I assumed))
ninja'd
((we discussed the name on the IRC.))
((Oh, I see. But how did Khenal [the character, not the player] know his name then? If events happened in the IRC they should be transcribed here for all to see.))
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 12:13:56 am
((He's new. He's also from Khenal's past, which is why Khenal knows him. I would have called him Wormtongue, but Apple has some interesting origins that The Master liked :) ))'Whoa there, I might have a better plan!' Says Lilac in Apple's voice, 'I want Khenal to leave and Apple to control my every action!'
((Apple? Could someone remind me who this is? I don't recall an Apple. I had thought this was Psycho Carrot, bound into Lilac, but now I'm confused. Could someone please refresh my memory?))
I stand and take a defensive stance. The hydra is the obvious danger, but Apple is trickier than to commit everything to a frontal assault. I keep an eye out for anything out of place, hoping to find his hidey-hole.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 14, 2011, 12:17:06 am
((He's new. He's also from Khenal's past, which is why Khenal knows him. I would have called him Wormtongue, but Apple has some interesting origins that The Master liked :) ))'Whoa there, I might have a better plan!' Says Lilac in Apple's voice, 'I want Khenal to leave and Apple to control my every action!'
((Apple? Could someone remind me who this is? I don't recall an Apple. I had thought this was Psycho Carrot, bound into Lilac, but now I'm confused. Could someone please refresh my memory?))
(Very well then. I am satisfied. Please continue, sorry for interrupting.)
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 12:35:07 am
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 12:43:50 am
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 12:52:56 am
'NO, KHENAL, THIS IS THE PART WHERE YOU FALL DOWN AND BLEED TO DEATH!'
"NO, KHENAL, THIS IS THE PART WHERE YOU FALL DOWN AND BLEED TO DEATH!"
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 01:08:11 am
As I prepare to flee the table, I decide to stick close on a hunch. I dive under it and examine as well as I can with a hydra breathing down my neck.
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 01:26:28 am
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 01:45:36 am
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 01:47:29 am
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 01:50:30 am
I swing Honesty at the axe-mark with all the might I can manage.
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 02:06:46 am
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 04:22:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 04:30:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 04:40:04 pm
'Well, ya got me. The only question now is, what're you gonna do with a fellow like me?'
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 04:59:13 pm
'I think you are a job for a professional. Carrot, can you help Lilac get back to herself? I think Apple needs to meet somepony.'
My horn glows as ethereal chains begin to wrap about Apple.
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 05:32:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 05:39:18 pm
I continue binding Apple, preparing to bring him out of Lilac with me.
'Lilac?'
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 05:58:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 06:02:02 pm
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 06:16:59 pm
'KHENAL, YOU WILL RUE THE DAY YOU DESTROYED MY PLANS TO TAKE OVER THIS BODY! I WILL HAVE MY REVENGE!'
Post by: Khenal on December 14, 2011, 06:31:22 pm
I turn to Lilac.
'I'll be taking him with me now. Thank you for fighting him, Lilac.'
I prepare to leave and drag Apple with me.
Post by: The Master on December 14, 2011, 06:45:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 15, 2011, 08:42:32 am
This an IRC transcription of the events of Glitterglen in the hospital. In the story, crazy things happen. It menaces with spikes of purple prose and is adorned with hanging rings of typos. On the back of the paper is an image of Telgin and the ponies. The ponies are reading. Telgin is in the fetal position.))
All at once, the area around Khenal twists and bends before fading away. Khenal wakes up in his own mind, Keeper staring him down.
"...Keeper?" he asks, confused.
"I don't now why I'm here. What in the Eye did you do?"
"That's a good question..." Apple's voice calls.
"And who is this?" Keeper asks.
"This is Apple, and he will not be staying here long," Khenal replies.
Keeper looks around. "Where is here?"
Apple continues, "Will I now? The way I see it, I'm talking out of your mouth."
Khenal frowns. "I should be back in the real world with him in chains, ready to be handed over to the inquisitor."
"Where is here!?" Keeper insists.
"In Khenal's mind, bullbrain," Apple retorts.
Keeper scoffs. "I was in Khenal's mind for over a year, you pathetic minion. I know what it looks like, and this is not it."
Apple looses a low chuckle. "Ah, clever." He pauses. "You're in the ether."
"Is that what you call it?" Keeper replies. He looks to Khenal. "I did note that it had some similarities to your brain."
Apple ignores the comment. "This is a place that no form of intelligence has entered since existence and before."
Khenal's expression remains unchanged. "So, either something fundamental to the fabric of reality is broken, or Apple continues to lie."
Another chuckle from Apple echoes into the oblivion. "Khenal, have you bothered to look at me? For, if you had, you'd note that the chains are gone." He sneers. "I am still bound in Lilac's head, but not outside it."
"Do we care? And who is this damned Lilac, Khenal?"
Khenal looks to Keeper. "Carrot's daughter."
"Oh, goody."
"So yes, I care that Apple is still there."
Apple says, "Fortunately, I have learned how to control this place. Observe!" The ground begins to shake, and a large mountain rises from the ground, tossing Keeper high into the air.
Khenal's horn glows with ethereal energy as he attempts to summon another set of chains for Apple. As the scene unfolds, the environment continues to shift. Keeper rolls his eyes. "Oh, wow, you can create a mountain." As he lands, his form begins to change. No more a pony, he has become a twisted bipedal monster with four arms. A gaping maw covers its body from top to bottom.
Apple vanishes, replaced by a sign with the head of Carrot nailed to it. Then an army of honey badger ponies begin to materialize around the trio, snarling and snapping their teeth as they circle.
Keeper grins devilshly. "Let's get these badger ponies, hey?"
Khenal looks about. "Where is Apple?"
Lilac vanishes in an instant, replaced by an eviscerated corpse. Keeper shrugs awkwardly. "Oh, it doesn't matter, let's just have some fun!" A wooden cage forms around him. "Oh, that's cute! A cage!"
Magma begins to pour into the area from nowhere. Keeper grins again, moving his arms around in a chaotic, twising pattern. With a sound like a million damned souls screaming in agony, strange flames burst from around him and destroy both the magma and the cage.
"Hey, that's not cool!! This is MY realm!!" Apple shouts.
Khenal grins. "Problem, Apple?"
Keeper nods in agreement. "Oh, I like the sound of that, Apple. You don't know how long it's been since I got to go out and enjoy myself!"
With another flash of chaos, the dead scenery evaporates to be replaced by all of Khenal's past patients, crying in agony like the each did on the day of their deaths. Keeper begins gleefully leaping between the patients, twisting each with his chaotic touch. Horns sprout from some, feathers from others. Others still have their hooves replaced with tentacles, or muzzles with beaks. "The changer of ways will be pleased!"
Khenal's horn is enshrouded in more magic as he lifts an immense chunk of the ground. "I've already dealt with my past, Apple. I'd prefer it never happened, but I can keep it from repeating!"
"Can you?" Apple asks. "Is that why you're choking Lilac?"
"She is stronger than you Apple. She also wants you out," Khenal replies.
"No... I mean in the hospital! You're choking Lilac, and I'm not there to keep her alive!"
Khenal halts for a moment. He sets the slab of ground back down.
"I can hear Starkey arresting you..." Apple continues.
Keeper jumps about in glee and hurls another volley of warp flames at the remaining badger ponies. When they hit, the ponies scream as their flesh begins to melt away. The area of dead ground begins to expand.
Khenal continues to pause. "Hmm..."
"Khenal, Lilac is on a timer, and your keeper friend is only speeding it up. That isn't just grass, it's her life!"
A flash of magic surrounds Khenal's horn as he closes the chains on Apple. "It's time we left Lilac's mind!"
Keeper smirks as well. "It's not just grass anymore either! It's the land of the Lord of Sorcery!"
"You inconsiderate fool! Keeper, you're destroying Lilac's mind! I'm not that heartless... to destroy somepony's mind..."
"The Grand Schemer has arranged for it already!" Keeper shouts.
"Lilac! Wake up, I don't want you to be destroyed!" Apple shouts in desperation.
Khenal glares at Keeper. "Keeper, settle down. We're getting out of here."
"Can't I stay? This is the most fun I've had in eons!" Keeper says, his voice slowly shifting... it soon becomes none other than Schmoe.
"Schmoe!?" Apple cries.
Khenal's glare hardens. "No, Keeper. If this is really Lilac's mind, you are not supposed to be here."
Apple begins to plead, "I... uh... sir... Sorry sir! I didn't mean to interrupt your mission!" He materializes in front of Keeper. He cackles. "All hail in the glorious name of schmoe! He is awake, and you will worship him!"
"Got you!" Keeper grabs hold of Apple, and instantly warping change ripples through hsis body. Wings sprout from his back, like thos of a griffon. Tentacles replace his hooves... a leg warps into a twisting arm with a mouth for a hand. Flames gush from the mouth.
Khenal's horn shines like the sun as his strongest bindings wrap around Apple. He looks to Keeper. "Keeper, what are you doing?"
"Not quite finished..."
The bindings surrounding Apple shatter. Khenal reels from the magical backlash. Apple's new tentacles wrap around Khenal's throat, choking the life from him in the real world. "I name they True Name, Eoeeeiloduioeuda!" Keeper shouts.
Apple stares idly. "That's not my name. It's really just Apple."
As Keeper speakes, Apple's mind opens to the Warp. Hundreds, thousands, millions, trillions, infinite thoughts enter Apple's mind. "Lord Tzeentch has bestowed it upon you."
"I accept this gift!"
" Eoeeeiloduioeuda... release me..." Khenal chokes.
"Nah, Khenal, I want you to hang out with me all the time. And you can't unless I help..." Apple shouts, "And the name's Apple!"
As Khenal speaks Apple's name, he feels himself unable to resist. "That's... how a True.. Name works..." He gasps as the grip loosens.
The tentacles tighten again, even harder than before. "I win!" Apple chuckles and Khenal smiles feebly at Apple before he begins to slip into unconsciousness.
"Yes, yes... all according to the great Lord Tzeentch, and his great plan..." Keeper says. "Without your current acts, he would not have succeeded in his next battle and thus defeated Khorne's followers. You are finished now. Begone to whatever little things you wish to do."
Khenal gasps as he drops from the mental realm back into reality. The world swims around him as he returns to real consciousness, only to settle on the blue face of Lilac. She isn't breathing.
He scowls and says, "Apple.... Eoeeeiloduioeuda... I invoke your True Name. Remove yourself from Lilac. Do her no harm, and never return."
"My name's Apple! Not Kerblargintin! Not Pablo! It's Apple!" a disembodied voice says. Khenal repeats the incantation. "No, no, no! Khenal, you cannot do this!"
Khenal repeats the incantation. "Thrice invoked! Obey!"
"I'll take Lilac with me!"
"You will not! Eoeeeiloduioeuda, you are barred from harming her!"
"I'll break the laws if I have to!" Lilac arches backard, screaming in pain.
"Apple! Eoeeeiloduioeuda! I invoke your True Name! Remove yourself from LIlac! Do her no harm and never return! Obey!" Apple screams in torment, and Khenal repeats the incantation yet again. A great, massive, black mist pours from the screaming Lilac, flowing toward the nearest pony.
"Inquisitor!" Khenal calls in vain. " Eoeeeiloduioeuda! Coalesce before me and harm nopony!" Apple obeys, materializing before Khenal and drawing horrified gasps from everypony nearby. "Somepony, get Amberley!" he shouts. He glares at Apple. "Not you! You are no pony!"
Apple chuckles and turns a vengeful glare to Lilac. His tentacles reach out and grasp the filly by the throat. She coughs and scratches at the tentacles in vain.
***
Inquisitor Vail is standing vigil over Friesden, who continues to lay in a catatonic stupor. A frightened pony bursts into the barracks, panting from hte exterion of galloping for some time. "What is it?" she asks.
"Khenal wants you!"
She turns to look at Friesden. "Well, time to go. Keep an eye on Friesden for me. Where is he?"
"Up at the hospital! Hurry!"
Inquisitor Vail nods and gallops from the hospital.
***
"Eoeeeiloduioeuda! Release her!"
"Never! She'll die with me!!"
"Eoeeeiloduioeuda! You will release her!"
"I'll never do such a thing! She must die!!" Lilac finally ceases struggling, her face blue.
"Eoeeeiloduioeuda! You will do no harm to her! You will release her this instant!"
"You have no power over me! And she is-" Apple's sentence is cut off by Inquisitor Vail bursting into he hospital. "-dead! You're too late!!" he finishes.
Amberley Vail pauses, mouth agape. "In the God-Princess' name, what is going on here!?" Apple feels tortorous pain roll through him at the invocation of Her name.
He hisses loudly. "Who dares speak that vile name?!"
The inquisitor glares at him. "I do. Amberley Vail, of the God-Princess' Holy Ordos! Indentify thyself!"
"I am apple!"
She nods. "In the God-Princess' name, I dub thee Excommunicate Traitoris!"
"Lilac is dead! Do what you want with me!"
Amberley looks to Khenal. "Explain this!"
"Destroy it, bind it, or whatever it is you do! This daemon can't be allowed to run free!" he exclaims.
"This is a daemon?! I am no daemonhunter... I am a member of the Ordo Xenos!" A thought enters her mind. She begins to speak as the daemon rakes claws against her foreleg, drawing blood. "D-dammit! Get Schmutz, in the God-Princess' Name! Do it now!"
Khenal shouts, "Apple! Eoeeeiloduioeuda! You will harm no one!"
She looks to him. "Is that its True Name?"
He opens his mouth to reply, but the daemon lashes out again, tearing a gash down Khenal's back and smashing ribs. He lets out a startled cry and falls to the ground.
At the inquisitor's command, a member of the hospital staff hurries off to fetch the commissar and Schmutz.
"I... I witnessed his Naming. How... can he ... resist?" Khenal mutters.
"Eoeeeiloduioeuda! In the God-Princess' name, be bound!" shouts the inquisitor. Apple snatches a scalpel and drives it into her wounded leg. Ethereal chains appear and encircle the daemon despite the interruption, stronger than he can resist.
Khenal groans incoherently for a moment. "Is... it bound?"
"Maybe, but I wouldn't trust it for long..."
Khenal grunts again as he tries to shift. "I never... thought my past... would come back like this..." As he speaks, a dark thought enters his mind. He looks over to Lilac's motionless body and drags himself to her. The filly looks lifeless. "I hope.. this works..."
Schmutz and Commissar Abel trot through the door, dressed in their combat fatigues. Amberley points a hoof at Apple and shouts, "Schmutz! Attack!" The pony obediently charges at Apple. As he passes by, Khenal feels his magic drain away and vanish.
He draws in a deep breath, despite the stabbing pain in his back and releases it into Lilac. He desperately hoped he remembered how mouth-to-mouth worked. There is no response. "Come on, Lilac. You... are stronger... than him." He repeats the breath, praying it will bring her around.
Schmutz passes by Khenal and throws himself at Apple. Apple begins to immediately destabilize, and as Schmutz is upon him his material form vanishes completely, haunted by a torturing daemonic scream.
Khenal tries again, still eliciting no response from Lilac. Tears begin to stream from his eyes. Inquisitor Vail slowly rises and staggers to Khenal. "What's wrong with her?"
"She isn't... breathing. Please, can... you help her?" He looks down and notices Lilac's face is completely pale. A stab of fear jolts through him.
"What caused it?"
"The daemon... strangled her. I tried... to stop him, but.."
"Strangled her?"
The fear shifts into a deep nauseating feeling that Khenal remembers from the time he witnessed Carrot's final death. "Lilac..."
Amberley turns to Abel and says," Commissar, Schmutz. Feel free to go back to your quarters. Nothing more you can do here." The two trot off without another word.
Khenal leans in and gives Lilac a final breath, and is rewarded with nothing yet again. He begins to choke back tears and fails, collapsing into sobs.
***
Inside Lilac's mind, Keeper finishes destroying the last traces of Apple's influence. The lights begin to grow dim...
"It's... so... cold..." Lilac mutters.
"Oooh! Seems you're dying, silly fill!" Keeper says to her.
"At least... I can see daddy and mommy again.."
"Oh, yes, totally. Does Kil want to see you?" Keeper stops as an idea crosses his mind. "I have an idea!" He summons a ball of warp fire that cleaves him in two. The halves fall to the ground before warping and growing limbs of their own. The two halves begin to bicker among themselves and rampage through her mind.
"C.... c.... cold..."
The two continue to scuffle, pressing buttons and wreaking havoc where they go.
"Stop... fighting..."
The madness continues, a plan too convoluted for her to realize, but a plan nonetheless. The two press more buttons, and eventually the lighting returns. The two fist bump and merge back into one Keeper. "Well, that's done now. How are you feeling, silly filly?"
"...I'm stuck with you, huh?"
"Oh, yes!"
"...Please... can you kill me anyway?"
"Why would you want to die?"
"Oh, nevermind... I'm Lilac."
"I'm the Keeper, but you can call me Helmfire."
***
With the chaos in the room settling, Falcata begins to come around. She shakes her head to clear the stupor that has washed over her. She's just witnessed things that nopony ever should. She notices Khenal crying over what appears to be Lilac's corpse and everything begins to flood back to her. She trots over and stares at the stricken filly, mouth agape. "Kh-Khenal? I-is she..."
Khenal looks up at her, tears streaming from his eyes. As his eyes track up her face, he spots her horn. Of course! "Falcata!" He jerks up, only to release a pained groan as his injuries force themselves back to the forefront of his mind.
Falcata winces as she notices the severe injuries on his back. She swallows back a retch as she spies a smashed rib jutting from his skin. How could he even still be conscious?
Khenal shakes his head and points to Lilac. "Not me, her! Falcata, how's your magic?"
She snaps her attention back to Lilac. "I... uh... don't know... how I can help... I don't know any medical magic..."
"Heh... neither did I... the first time I did this spell. You... need to give her a... shock. Directly into... her heart." He looks up to her. "Can you... do that?"
She stares back for a moment, stupefied. Had she heard that right? "I... I can try."
"Thats... all I can ask."
She shuts her eyes as she begins to focus. Her mane begins to stand on end as the air around her charges with electricity. "Here... goes." She opens her eyes and aims at the center of Lilac's chest. She averts her gaze as soon as she feels her horn's aim is true. A bolt of violet electricty leaps from her horn into Lilac's chest.
Lilac twitches, but does nothing more. Distraught, Falcata looks back to Khenal. "It... it didn't work..."
"Less... power. Don't want... to cook her. Try again."
Falcata nods. Her horn glows again, a more sedate blue. "Please... work..." She angles her horn at Lilac's chest again and releases the bolt. Lilac's eyelids flutter, but nothing more.
"Better. You're... a natural. Don't be afraid... to get closer. Again... please." Khenal winces and groans, his vision dimming.
Falcata hesitates for a moment. Encouraged by Khenal, she steps forward and places her horn nearly on Lilac's chest. Charge begins to build again. She releases the arc, trying her best to channel it safely through her heart. If only she was a doctor... She watches Lilac intently, anxiety building in her stomach. Had... she used too much that time?
Lilac takes an almost imperceptible breath.
Khenal forces himself lucid. "See? A.. natural..."
Falcata is elated. She pants several times to catch her breath. She wasn't used to doing stuff like this. "Lilac?" She leans in closer and examines the filly. Lilac is still deathly pale, and surely needs a real doctor immediately. Falcata gently levitates her to the nearest bed. Lilac looked terrible, and Khenal was badly injured. What was she going to do?
At that moment, Dr. Bubbles enters, eyes wide. "What the clop is going on here!?"
Post by: The Master on December 15, 2011, 10:37:02 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 15, 2011, 10:39:10 pm
((We'd like to take the time to inform you that from now on, most of the roleplaying will be happening on the IRC.))
Why?
Post by: The Master on December 15, 2011, 10:40:23 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 15, 2011, 10:47:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 15, 2011, 11:02:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 15, 2011, 11:08:02 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 15, 2011, 11:11:44 pm
Post by: The Master on December 15, 2011, 11:12:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 15, 2011, 11:14:52 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 15, 2011, 11:19:45 pm
I love readin' it even if I don't think I could join in very easily.
Post by: Telgin on December 16, 2011, 09:39:44 am
((As I understand it, it will merely be until we resolve this 40k arc.))
((We sort of discussed this on the IRC last night, but I'd like to add my support for this in writing here. The IRC is pretty valuable to discussing what we're doing, but for a variety of reasons it's easier on everyone to do the actual RPing here. Even if we post the transcriptions here, it's not quite the same.
Don't get me wrong, I don't mind reworking the transcriptions to make them postable. Not at all. I just think that most people find reading individual posts easier, especially prospective players.
And lastly, if the IRC is going to be a hindrance to anyone, then I'd rather that not be an issue. In particular, it's been a little while since the duchess has been involved, and I'd like to have some opportunities for Falcata to interact with her. Falcata is pretty scared of her in general, and I'd like for her to either learn that she was right or wrong (I'm thinking she's wrong to be afraid of Charity, but it's up to KingStrongbeard, of course) in this respect before / if she dies. If that can't happen on the IRC, then I would be a sad pony if we only worked in the IRC.
Now, having said all of that, I'd like to say that I've found using the IRC to do the roleplaying was more fun than I originally thought it would be. And it's still a perfect place to do it when the forums go down. Further still, I think it's a wise choice to do most of the remaining 40K related stuff there, else it will take forever and a day to get through it all.
But once it's done, I'd like to move back to posting here and using the IRC to discuss what we're thinking as we post.))
((Edit: The first transcription is nearly complete. I'm waiting for Dsarker to get back to me with translating the last of it before I can post it.
Oh, and by all means, join the fun JaxtalMK2. As you've no doubt figured, this thread runs a lot differently than Dawnpick does right now. I didn't think I'd be able to join in either, but it went surprisingly smoothly. If you'd rather wait for the current story arc to conclude, it may be easier to work your way in, but I have no idea when that will be. I'm sure we could accomodate you either way. :) ))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 10:04:49 am
Give it a go. Or maybe before, I just don't wanna seem like I'm butting in. Or messing with anyone's story.
Any chance of grabbing a male earthpony axe user? If I can name him Hiero.
I know dumb joke but I think its funny. Hmm now I wonder if Telgin or Khenal will get it :-\.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 02:19:18 pm
I'm looking forward to the conclusion of this arc. I would like to be able to join in again, once all the transcriptions are done and I can get caught up again.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 02:32:31 pm
As long as he doesn't start off with any lovers or the like I can always add that into my plans for the character.
Yes I have a basic idea about who he is, I always enjoy thinking about who I'd be if I joined in.
If there aren't any unconnected earthponys then a pegasan would be fine.))
((Hope I'm not sounding too picky.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 02:42:19 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 03:02:33 pm
((Any chance of grabbing a male earthpony axe user? If I can name him Hiero.
I know dumb joke but I think its funny. Hmm now I wonder if Telgin or Khenal will get it :-\.))
(( I seriously doubt anyone not reading Dawnpick will get why that's a joke.
Still think it's a cool name, especially if it's said right
He'd be focused on protectin' his home so I guess the guard. Good to know I'm not annoying anybody.
Just cause you shouldn't care what others think of you doesn't mean you should be a jerk.))
((I'll probobly join in quick if i end up gettin' mentioned but other then that I feel like I'd just be appearing outta nowhere,
and kinda steppin on toes. At least until this arc is over.))
Post by: The Master on December 16, 2011, 03:04:14 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 03:07:42 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 03:15:29 pm
Due to the number of deaths within our militia and guard, I've decided to draft a new member, an earthpony miller by the name of Hiero will be joining the guard as of today. The other farmers should still be able to keep up without him, I've told Hiero to show a few of them how to properly work the mill so they can do so when he's on duty.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Hiero.png
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 03:24:20 pm
Almost never sick, quick to heal, and very flimsy... dude Its a pony version of me!))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 04:00:34 pm
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Pegasus%20fey%20foal.png)
One of Ironya's sons has been taken by a fey mood. And he flew with speed I've never seen right up to the craftsponies workshop, next to Khenal's carpentry shop. He grabbed a bunch of cobalt, a roll of pig tail cloth, some bars of nickel and brass, a crudle's bone, some wool cloth, a few uncut rubicelles, and some zinc. And he's locked the door to the shop.
Charity's Journal 5th Galena 99
Little Odur has finished his artifact, it is a beautiful cobaltite ring. It's called, the Decisive Puzzle and it depicts Babin the god of Loyalty. I'd like to present this ring to somepony who deserves it, but I don't know who yet, I'll think it over, for now it goes into storage.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/The%20Decisive%20Puzzle.png)
Charity's Journal 15th Galena 99
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Siege%21.png)
Glitterglen is under siege! The zebra have sent an army to wipe us off the map. It seems that from my parley with the leader, they are upset over the "murder" of their diplomat last summer, I tried to explain that he was killed in a diomedian ambush and that it wasn't our fault, but he would not listen, and then he rode off on his war rhino to rejoin his forces. It seems this will mean war. Starkey's Stallions stand at the ready. This is going to get bloody.
Post by: Dsarker on December 16, 2011, 04:01:20 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 04:04:56 pm
Post by: The Master on December 16, 2011, 04:09:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 04:12:02 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 04:16:00 pm
((Wait, wait wait, a zebra riding a rhino? The heck does that work ????))
((Heretical magics I'm sure.))
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Heresy%21.png)
((That didn't really happen silly, it's a way of explaining things.))
((It did happen, well, the riding a war rhino part did, pony civs do use mounts when besieging.))
Charity's Journal 17th Galena 99
As if the army of zebra sitting outside wasn't bad enough, our scouts have reported a small diomedian squad to the north. They're not far from the zebra, maybe, if we're lucky they'll take each other out.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 04:18:53 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 16, 2011, 04:19:10 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 04:39:55 pm
Charity's Journal 19th Galena 99
My hopes of the Diomedians attacking the Zebra was misplaced, they have assaulted our gates, killing a second sentry dog. However, we've raised the gates on them, and the Skyguard are firing on any who get too close. Although a darkbolt hammerer flew over the walls and severely wounded Osal the markspony before the guard killed it, the rest of the diomedians where killed or fled after a few volleys from our archers.
Post by: The Master on December 16, 2011, 05:02:19 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 05:23:07 pm
Autumn has come. It's been half a month and the siege continues. They do not move from their place in the jungle, the smoke from their campfire signals that they have not yet left. The militia is anxious. I think they'd rather the zebra just attack and get this over with. But they just sit there waiting.
(the following entry for the 4th is scribbled quickly and slopily.)
4th Limestone 99
Reports just in. The zebra are on the move, they are heading for Glitterglen. The alarm bell is ringing. I can hear Starkey calling to get his stallions to the walls. The time has finally come.
Charity's Journal 6th Limestone 99
The battle began just as the zebra army crossed our river. The Skyguard opened fire, as they approached the fortress walls, just as they approached the militia backed by the fortress guard sortied out to meet our striped foe on the field of battle before our walls.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/It%20begins..png)
As the battle began Osal, showed a dazzling display of marksponyship with many well placed shots.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Martial%20Trance%20Osal.png)
Our champion efim was the first to hit the enemies line, and fought well, until a damnable lasher with a copper whip struck him from behind, and he was surrounded and overwhelmed. Fortunately for him, while he had fallen, he was not yet dead.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Zebra%20trance.png)
Seeing their fallen companion the militia and the guard, lead by Otik, (Starkey was very late to the battle) charged the enemy and fought them off, the enemy routed but where killed down to the last pony. However, our champion efim bleed out as they rushed him to the hospital and has passed on. Osal was also seriously injured but will hopefully recover.
Post by: Telgin on December 16, 2011, 05:34:11 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 05:40:32 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 05:42:45 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 05:48:59 pm
((Man I chose an interesting time to get a pony. did Hiero get in on the fight?))
((Some, he's in the guard and the guard all ganged up on that darkbolt, I know Falcata, and a random spear pony did most of that though. And I know I saw Hiero go out, but he doesn't have any kills that he would have gotten there, just animals he's killed as a hunter. I didn't mention that but he was actually a hunter/miller before being recruited, technically still will be when not on duty. Also, doubled checked and while I think Falcata went out, she didn't get any new kills.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 06:03:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 16, 2011, 07:55:22 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 16, 2011, 08:22:37 pm
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Captain%20Otik.png
I thought we were going to lose poor Otik during the siege when she ran out of bolts and charged in with the first wave of troops. But she's a tough one and came out unscathed, Starkey chose well I think.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 08:50:05 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 16, 2011, 08:59:53 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 09:01:43 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 16, 2011, 09:01:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 16, 2011, 09:02:24 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 16, 2011, 10:51:17 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 16, 2011, 11:32:24 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 17, 2011, 12:58:07 am
Post by: Telgin on December 17, 2011, 02:16:46 am
Falcata's Diary - 4th Limestone, 99
The tension filling the fort was finally broken today when the zebra army besieging us finally moved to attack. Watching the smoke from their siege camps for weeks was beginning to work on everypony's nerves, and I could tell that everypony in the guard at least were glad that something was happening. I'm not so eager... even though I probably don't have long left in this world, I'm not anxious for it to end just yet. Or worse, somepony else die because of my failure.
6th Limestone, 99
We might have been tense watching the campfires in the distance, but I'd have preferred it stay that way instead of anypony losing their life. In the end, the battle was decisively in our favor, but Efim was killed. Osal is in bad shape, but should recover from what I hear.
The actual battle is a bit hazy in my memory, and I'm just glad that I didn't participate in much of it. I do remember a darkbolt daring to fly over the fortress walls, where he paid for his audacity with his life. I had the honor of being the first to engage him, and I suppose I should be grateful that my time practicing has paid off some. I was able to hold him off and actually got a few solid hits in with my hammer before somepony else with a spear finished him. I don't think it was the new guy, Heiro, but I did see him fighting reasonably well for his experience.
By that point though, I was getting extremely nauseated, so I had to back down before the killing blow. I don't know what Captain Isos thinks of it... she didn't say anything. I just wanted to sit down and let everything settle, but that's when she gave the order to charge out to assist the militia. I managed to keep my lunch down as we headed outside, and I'm extremely glad to say that Starkey showed up to finish off and route the last of the zebras.
After the battle was over, and the smell of blood was everywhere, I couldn't hold it in any longer. I vomited next to the corpse of one of the zebras, who had suffered a particularly nasty and fatal wound to his head. I guess everypony thought I was grossed out by it or something. I heard a few snickers from one of the militia squads and something along the lines of "the guards have no nerve." If it didn't feel like my stomach was in a furnace, I might have said something, but I just moped back inside the fortress.
At least it wasn't Captain Starkey or Lieutenant Otik laughing at me, but I know they both saw it happen. And I hope Captain Isos doesn't get too put off by me embarassing the guard like that. I haven't told anypony what's wrong with me, and I don't think they know yet. There was a lot of blood in the vomit, but there was so much everywhere else I doubt they noticed. If they even cared to look at it in the first place, of course, which I doubt. If Captain Isos found out how sick I was, she'd probably relieve me of duty...
7th Limestone, 99
After another shot of medicine from Dr. Bubbles, my stomach finally settled again. It's taking more and more to keep the pain manageable and let me eat anything. Last night it was so bad I couldn't even drink water. I don't need a doctor to tell me what that means. I almost feel selfish wasting the medicine knowing that I'm doomed, but pain and fear of mortality are strong emotions that I haven't conquered yet.
Kris was so happy to see that I was alright after the siege, and I was likewise happy to see she wasn't hurt. After her expedition into the woods with Lilac, she's been pretty terrified to even set foot out the door, which is fine by me. When I'm gone... when I'm not here to protect her any more... (the diary entry ends abruptly)
((Whether she lives or dies, Falcata is convinced her end is nigh. We'll see how it plays out...))
Edit: Fixed some menacing spikes of typos.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 17, 2011, 02:26:16 am
Post by: Telgin on December 17, 2011, 02:37:20 am
I suppose you could kill her like you did the other ponies if we wanted her to die. We could put it up to a vote, hehe. I just can't decide what I want... I've got scenes planned out for both outcomes. One will give you d'awwabetes, the other... not so much.
And I must say, I never expected to actually participate much in this fort, much less get a decent story out of it. I've really come to like my little unicorn. Why is it I want terrible things to happen to her? :P))
Post by: Dsarker on December 17, 2011, 02:38:43 am
I'm still feeling sorry about what I'm going to do to Friesden.))
Post by: Telgin on December 17, 2011, 02:46:05 am
By the way, there's a few things that I've been wondering:
1: For RP purposes, does the fort run on a socialist or capitalist economy? I've been trying to think up a decent reason for Falcata to not resign and spend her last months with her daughter, and I figured if they need the money that was a pretty powerful motivator. If food was rationed out for free, that's not such a good excuse anymore.
2: Does anypony know what crimes immigrants committed, or is it one of those things that it's assumed nopony will ask if you don't? I'm wondering if somepony like Charity or Isos would know why Falcata had been sent to Glitterglen.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 17, 2011, 02:53:44 am
((
1: For RP purposes, does the fort run on a socialist or capitalist economy? I've been trying to think up a decent reason for Falcata to not resign and spend her last months with her daughter, and I figured if they need the money that was a pretty powerful motivator. If food was rationed out for free, that's not such a good excuse anymore.
2: Does anypony know what crimes immigrants committed, or is it one of those things that it's assumed nopony will ask if you don't? I'm wondering if somepony like Charity or Isos would know why Falcata had been sent to Glitterglen.))
1. Has been inconsistent, and I don't know. Perhaps a vote should be held. I think it tends toward a capitalistic bend though as there has been talk of bits, and buying of private items from the caravans etc. It's defiantly a mixed economy of some kind.
2. No, ponies just show up, some were banished, some are ordinary immigrants, but no one is given any particular information regarding the immigrants. This is mostly to allow someone to keep it a secret from everypony until plot demands it be revealed, but the in game explanation would be that the Princess, at least at the beginning, didn't give a rat's ass about what happened out here.
Post by: Telgin on December 17, 2011, 03:12:03 am
I'm seriously contemplating leaving her fate up to a vote actually, and you could kill her off if it came to that.
Actually, what are the attrition rates like in the guard? She might get killed anyway and it might not matter.))
Post by: DVNO on December 17, 2011, 03:17:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 17, 2011, 03:23:38 am
Anyway, tomorrow the 40k arc ends. I've got an way for the interrogation to be done and for all the heretics to be caught. It's going to mean that at least one more pony in the military is a heretic.
Post by: The Master on December 17, 2011, 05:35:54 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 17, 2011, 08:37:26 am
Aww, Dsarker, don't do anything to Friesden, she's my favorite psychotic / demon possessed / sometimes catatonic, pony.
Nah but seriously it's your character, although if anything really bad happens I'll be a saad Jaxtal.
Post by: Khenal on December 17, 2011, 02:16:15 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 17, 2011, 02:17:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 03:27:02 am
Lying around in bed in the hospital was so boring. Lilac rolls over and sees Falcata lying in bed next to her, and decides to get up. She steps over to her and says, “Umm... miss...?”
Falcata looks down to her. “What is it, honey?”
“Is anypony mad at me?”
“No dear, nopony is mad at you. Why would you think that?”
Lilac looks away to Khenal and frowns. “I'm frustrated, dying so much... I'm worried that I might have annoyed uncle Khenal...”
Falcata returns a smile. “Don't worry about that. Khenal isn't mad at you.”
Lilac sniffles again and looks up. “I... I miss daddy...”
She gives Lilac a hug and strokes her mane. “I know you do. We all miss him.”
Lilac stares back silently for a few moments. “You... knew daddy longer than I did. What was he like?”
That wasn't strictly true. She'd met Captain Carrot before, but she had only been at Glitterglen for just shy of two years, and she hadn't really interacted with him much during that period. Still... “He was a good friend to everypony. He was very friendly, and devoted to those he knew.” She lets out a chuckle. “And very energetic. He was a good soldier. He even stood by the countess when nopony else would.”
Lilac smiles and looks away. “How did he really die?”
“I... wasn't there honey.” She rubs Lilac's back. “But he died fighting hard for everything he believed in. Don't ever doubt that.”
Lilac brushes against her, smiling weakly despite the tears beginning to stream from her eyes. Falcata strokes her mane and wipes a tear from her face. “It's not easy... I know. I know what it's like. But it gets easier with time, I promise. You'll never forget him, and you shouldn't. But it gets easier...”
“What about my brothers...? Do you think they're okay...?”
Falcata nods. “They've gone on to a better world with your father. They're all happy now, and I know they wouldn't want you to be sad.
Lilac says something, but it sounds attenuated and far away. The world seems to blur and shift around her, and fog settles in her vision. She blinks to clear the haziness and looks around to find herself in a completely void environment. In front of her stands the impossible. Captain Carrot. “Carrot?”
“The one and only. I see you've been comforting my daughter.”
Falcata stares in disbelief for some time. “She's been very upset about it all... and she doesn't have anypony else to really turn to. Lieutenant Otik has spent some time with her when she can, but I've been off duty more than her in the past few days.”
Carrot nods and steps closer. “About that... there's something wrong with you. Have the doctors told you what's really wrong with you?”
She nods somberley. “Yes, they have.”
“Then who will be as nice to Lilac when you're gone?”
“I... don't know. I don't even know who will look after Kris when I pass on.” She looks aside.
“I can guide her, Kris, but I can't take care of her...”
Falcata smiles. “I appreciate that Captain, but how would you do that?”
Carrot grins. “Well, how do you think I'm talking to you now?”
She ponders the statement for a moment. Good question. “I actually wish I knew that...”
“Here's a hint... what happens to gas when you breathe it in?” He continues to grin. “It's a trick question.”
“I... uh...”
He points to her forehead.
“What? My horn?” She notices his displeased expression and adds, “Sorry, it's been a long day...”
He rolls his eyes. “I give up. I'm in your mind.”
“Oh... of course. I... don't get the riddle, but that makes sense I suppose.”
“I can guide Kris. Get it now?”
She looks to him, eyes wide. “Wait... how are you able to do this? Could... could I speak to her too?”
Carrot chuckles and grins again. “Sure... I can't freeze time!”
“No... no,” she says, shaking her head. “I mean, when I die... could you tell me how to speak with her? Like you're speaking to me now?”
He nods. “Of course! It's simple, just don't go to, at least what Khenal always called, 'Your Enternal Reward.'”
She looks down in silence for a while. “I... what's it like? Not going on?”
“It's boring sometimes, not having any senses... at first you go mad, but then you get tired of it. I'm here because I still want to be. I've visited Khenal on many occasions.... he didn't like it much...”
“I see...” She hangs her head and continues, “I feel that I've atoned for my sins in this life... but I still fear what might await me after I die... but the chance to help Kris along... at least for a while...”
“Don't worry. Besides, when you do die, I get a playmate!” Carrot grins hugely.
Falcata responds with a weak smile. “Until then though... I'm going to do everything I can for Kris. And Lilac. The poor filly doesn't deserve what's happened to her.”
Carrot glowers darkly. “Who killed my foals?” he growls.
“Nopony is sure,” she replies. “The inquisitor believes that it is some sort of cult... Crest Fire was there...”
“Crest Fire! What!?” Carrot exclaims, eyes wide.
“Yes... he committed suicide at the scene, from what I hear. Why... I have no idea.”
“He what!?” Carrot looks away. A thought strikes him, “Oh, would you look at that? Time to go...” He turns away from her and begins to step away into the darkness. “But first, catch!” He throws something to her. Falcata catches what appears to be a watch with her magic. She glances over it, seeing nothing of interest. “Hang onto that, you'll need it later.”
She continues to stare at it as Carrot recedes into the dark. “Alright, I'll keep it safe.” She looks up and sees that Carrot is gone, and her vision fades away again.
“Hey! Wake up! Stop ignoring me!”
Falcata shakes her head and blinks her eyes to fight the fog. As the world becomes lucid again, she sees Lilac staring her down. “Hey! You fell asleep!”
“Sorry, honey, it's been a long day.”
“You kept saying Carrot...”
“Yes... I'll tell you about it later.” She tries to think up a plausible topic to change to, as Commissar Abel, Schmutz and Dr. Alen enter the hospital. The commissar escorts Alen over to the inquisitor and ties him up. This wasn't going to be pretty. She looks down to Lilac and says, “Why don't we let the inquisitor work? Let's go see Kris, I bet she'll be happy to know that you're okay.”
Lilac stares at the inquisitor for a moment before saying, “Okay.” She didn't like the way this was starting to look. The inquisitor was beginning to get really loud.
Falcata rises from bed and leads Lilac outside just as the sounds of the interrogation begin. Would the inquisitor really have started in front of the foal? No matter, they weren't going to be anywhere near it in a moment. She thinks back to what she had just seen... should she tell Lilac what happened? Surely Carrot had appeared to his own daughter before her. “Lilac... about your father...”
Lilac ignores the comment as something catches her eye. “Fal... why do you have a watch around your neck?”
She raises an eyebrow and looks down to see that it was true. She thought it was just in her mind. “Y-your father gave it to me.”
“Really?”
Falcata nods. “I... don't really understand it... but while I was out... your father came to me.”
Lilac's expression grows frustrated. She begins tearing up again and says, “Why does everypony keep lying to me!”
“Lilac, I...” She pauses. Smooth going, she should have just kept it to herself. “I don't know, maybe I was just dreaming.”
“Then where did you get the watch!?” Lilac demands.
“I-I can't explain that.” She levitates it to Lilac's eye level and asks, “Your father told me to keep this. Do you recognize it?”
“That's my mom's watch!” she exclaims. “She was buried with it!”
That was unexpected. She looks over to Lilac, who is beginning to burst into tears again. Poor thing... this had to be more difficult to deal with than she could imagine. Lilac's tears are interrupted as she stumbles and lands face first on the ground. “Lilac! Are you okay?”
The filly slowly rises from the ground, blood beginning to form in her nostrils. “Oww...” Lilac stands and places a hoof against her mouth, where Falcata can see that she has broken a tooth.
“Oh...” Falcata looks up to see that they're right outside her door. “Come here,” she instructs before hurrying over and opening the door. She runs inside and rummages about for a cloth and returns to find Lilac standing in the doorway, crying and rubbing her cheek. She steps over and gently tries to wipe the blood from her nose, but Lilac winces and pulls away.
“Oww!”
“I know it hurts, honey,” she replies, urging Lilac to tilt her head back. “Here, look up for me, that will help stop the bleeding.”
Lilac pulls away and shakes her head. “It hurrrts...”
“Mom, is that you?” a voice calls from out of sight. A cream colored filly appears from another room, confusion on her face. “Oh, Lilac! I'm glad to see you're okay!” She steps over. “You... you are okay, right?”
“No!” Lilac shouts, wincing as she does so. “It hurts... it hurts...”
“Oh, let me try something,” Kris closes her eyes as she begins to concentrate, her horn covered in a soft golden glow. Immediately Lilac feels the pain in her nose and mouth subside mostly, but not completely. “Did it work?”
Lilac darts over and gives her a strong hug. “Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you!” She tackles Kris and the two tumble together and roll a few paces.
“Hey, watch it!” Kris says, rolling out from under her before letting out a giggle.
“I bet I can beat you in a race to the hospital!”
“Bet you can't!”
Lilac darts out the door, Kris in tow. Falcata stares in confusion for a moment. How did Kris learn to do that? Wait... if they're going to the hospital... “Girls, don't interrupt the inquisitor!” She bolts out the door after them.
Lilac leads Kris back to the hospital, to find Commissar Abel leading a group of chained ponies away from the hospital. “Hello!” she says to him, ignoring the prisoners.
“Hello, sorry girls, I don't have time to talk right now,” Abel responds.
Kris pauses. Her mom told her not to bother the commissar. “Wait, Lilac, maybe we shouldn't bother Mr. Abel...”
“Blood for the blood god!” one of the prisoners bellows, lunging for her before pulling his chains taut. Abel yanks him back out of reach and forces him on.
“Oh, Luna, no! Don't kill me, please!”
Kris cowers as the pony lunches at her
“Come on!” the commissar shouts as he moves on, taking the prisoners out of sight.
Falcata manages to catch up to the two now, finding Lilac cowering behind Kris from nothing in particular. She steps over and kneels beside Lilac. “What's the matter?”
“Mom!” Lilac exclaims, latching onto her instinctively. She squeezes down with a bone crushing hug. She shuts her eyes, and memories of her own mother begin to flood back to her.
Falcata is surprised, but accepts the embrace. She returns the hug as best she can. “It's okay...”
Eventually Lilac releases her and sits on the ground next to her. Moments later, Otik rounds the corner. “Afternoon Falcata, an'... Lilac? Hun, what happened to yer face?”
“I hurt it... I tripped...”
Falcata nods. “Hello Lieutenant. Yes, she tripped... I did what I could, which wasn't much I'm afraid.” She looks down to Lilac. “How is it now honey?
“A lot better!”
“Good!
“Wel, I still appreciate it,” Otik replies. “She hasn't been any trouble otherwise?”
Falcata shakes her head and adds, “No, of course not.”
“Auntie Otik, can Kris sleep over again?” Lilac asks, rearing up on Otik.
Falcata smiles at Otik. “I wouldn't want to impose...”
Otik waves her hoof. “I dunnae think she'll be any trouble. I've rai.. I ken handle two fillies jus' fine.”
Lilac raises an eye brow and looks at her. “You raised what?”
“Nothin, hun. I... I mispoke, s'all.”
Lilac sinks away and begins to pout. “No ya didn't...”
Otik leans down to her and whispers in her ear, “I'll tell ye some other time. Mebbe tonight?”
“Alrigh'...”
Falcata looks to her daughter and says, “Well, alright, if you don't mind lieutenant, I don't.”
“Alright, slumber party!” Lilac shouts. “Come on Kris!”
Otik restrains Lilac and says, ” No Lilac, you are comin' wit' me.”
“Aww, but...”
“Mister Khenal's right inside,” she says, pointing a hoof at the hospital door.
“Actually, lieutenant, I was looking to speak with Khenal too. Should I come back later?”
“Oh, I dunnae think tha' will be necessary.”
“Alright, if it's not personal.” Falcata looks back to her daughter and says, “Kris, why don't you run along and go get your things ready for later?”
Otik waits for Kris to leave and looks back to Falcata and says, “It's about Lilac... an' Keeper. Lilac, is there a voice in yer head, one tha' dunnae belong there?. ”
“Yeah, actually... his name is Helmfire...”
“How long has he been there?”
Lilac raises a hoof to her chin. “Since... hm...” She reaches into her mind and asks Keeper, “How long have you been in my head?”
Keeper's lethargic voice replies, “How long since that daemon was in here?”
“Come on Keeper, how long have you been in my head?”
“I don't keep track of these things. Either cast me out, or let me sleep.”
“Some keeper you are...” Lilac mutters. “Just sleep...”
Otik watches worriedly as Lilac sits silently. As she comes to, Otik says, “Uh, alright then. Well, we need ta talk t'mister Khenal about Helmfire, aye?”
“Aye aye!” Lilac grins playfully, following the two grownups back into the hospital. She spots Khenal lying in bed at the far side of the hospital. As he stirs and looks their way, she exclaims, “Hi Khenal!!”
“Hmm?” Khenal just has time to recognize the ponies entering the room as Lilac bolts over to him and jumps on his back. He shrieks in pain and tries in vain to fend off the filly. Otik and Falcata rush over, and Otik snatches her from Khenal and hoists her into the air.
“Hey!”
“Now cut tha' out! Mister Khenal is hurt, he needs 'is rest!” Otik lowers Lilac to the ground next to Khenal.
Lilac pouts and looks up to her, “But Ooooooootik! I never get to see Khenal!”
As Khenal lets out a soft whimper, Otik gives Lilac a stern look. “Now, wha' do we say?”
“Sorry...”
Otik looks back to Khenal. “Are ye alright, Khenal?”
“It's... alright. But please... don't jump on me for a while.” He tries to put on a tough facade, but it's not very convincing. “So, how has the day gone?”
“Well, so far... I came by t'see about th'deal with Lilac an' Keeper.”
Lilac smiles. “Helmfire is funny... but he's always sleeping!”
“Helmfire?”
Lilac shrugs. “He's also called Keeper, I guess...”
“He is usually quiet,” Khenal responds, nodding. His gaze shifts to Otik and Falcata. “How goes... the plan?”
Falcata prepares to respond as Lilac jumps up and tries to get on top of Khenal again. She snatches the filly up with her magic and plants her on the ground next to her before giving her a stern glare. “Sorry... The inquisitor is handling it well, I think. I don't know how her progress goes.”
Lilac's eyes snap open. “What're you talking about, is it the cults!? Did they find me!?” She bolts behind Otik.
Otik leans over and whispers to Falcata, “When did she hear about tha'?”
“I... I don't know,” she whispers back.
“O-O-Otik, don't let them k-kill me!”
Otik drapes a foreleg over Lilac's back. “Nopony's gunna kill ye, Lilac. Not while me an' uncle Starkey are around.”
Khenal smiles and tries to get comfortable on the hospital bed. “That's certainly the idea, to keep you safe.”
Otik nods. “Okay... so ye said Lilac had t'unbind Keeper herself?”
“Yes, she needs to want him out and to let him go.”
Lilac frowns and looks at Khenal. “But I don't wanna!”
Otik looks down to her and says, “Lilac, Keeper isnae a pet. Did ye ever ask 'im if he wanted ta stay or go?”
She puzzles in thought for a moment before reaching back into her mind. “Want to stay?” she asks Keeper.
“Ugh... if I can go back to Starkey, that would be preferable,” he replies lethargically.
“Aww... can't you make another one of yourself and have him stay?”
Keeper is silent for a moment. “Very well.” Keeper splits himself into two blue creatures.
“Yay! Helmfire, you can go, but I want him to stay!” Lilac shouts in her mind, pointing at the new arrival.
“Thank you.” Helmfire turns to his clone and says, “You! Stay here.”
Lilac arcs backward without warning, red mist pouring from her mouth. Falcata starts visibly, but as she sees Otik calm down she follows suit. She and Khenal had more experience with this than she did... The mist drifts silently to the door and leaves the hospital.
“Wha? Where's he goin'?” Otik asks, tracking the mist with her eyes. She is interrupted as the room suddenly fills with a thick black smog. In the center of the room, a new pony has appeared.
“Hello, everypony.”
The four stare in shock. “...Carrot?” Khenal asks.
“Captain?”
“Wha... Carrot!”
Carrot smiles and looks to Falcata. “The one and only. Falcata, Kil's watch, please?” She looks down at the watch for a moment before levitating it over to him.
“Thanks. Now, feel free to scream, anypony, I'm used to it.”
Otik blinks several times and stares at Carrot. “Ugh... Carrot, what are ye still doin' in Lilac? I thought ye were goin' ta th'afterlife?”
Carrot notices Otik and glowers at her. “Oh, Otik...” He steps over and plants a slap across her cheek. “Now, we're even. That's for tying me to the racks...”
Khenal's eyes snap open. “Carrot! What are you doing?”
Otik growls at him. “We wos even when I decided t' take in Lilac.” She approaches the apparition an delivers a crushing uppercut to Carrot's jaw. Carrot is sent reeling with a startled shout. “Now, we're even...”
“Oh, it's on, Miss Otik...” he hisses, circling her before launching into a tackle. Otik rolls with the attack, latching him into a headlock. Khenal and Falcata shout ineffectually trying to get them to stop, but the two continue to scuffle. Otik and Carrot trade several blows, before somepony else enters the hospital.
“M-my lady...” Falcta says, lowering her head in deference despite the chaos unfolding around her.
Duchess Charity is standing in the doorway, draped in her finest dark blue robes and wearing a confused look on her face. When she spots Carrot fighting with Otik, she shouts, “Carrot!! Do you remember what I told you would happen if you kept causing trouble?”
Carrot locks eyes with her for a moment between swings. “Shut it dutchy!”
Charity narrows her eyes and strides into the room. “Don't speak to me that way.”
“Blah blah...”
“Feck off, can ye not see we're busy here?” Otik adds.
Charity looks to Khenal. “Dammit Khenal, why aren't you doing anything about this?”
“Sorry Duchess Charity, I'm still recovering from the last daemon.”
“Captain... lieutenant... this is getting out of hand...” Falcata says to brawling mass. She winces as Carrot shatters a lamp over Otik, who soon finds herself pinned beneath Carrot.
“I see Hoofdon, I see Prance...” she says, a sinister grin forming on her face. She then slams her hoof into a very personal place on Carrot, who immediately loses the strength in his legs and topples from her.
“Oww... you... you fucker!!” he manages between gasps.
Otik hoists Carrot up by the shoulders and dusts him off. “There, now we're even.” Carrot gives her a solid hoofshake and nods.
Falcata takes a step over to place herself between the two and the duchess, just as the melee calms down. Charity frowns and says, “Now that that's done with, mind telling me what's going on down here?”
Carrot retrieves the watch and tosses it to her. “Sure, here, catch!” She catches it with her magic and examines it. “It's Kil's watch,” he continues. “You'll need it.”
“And why is Kil's watch significant? What aren't you telling me?”
“Oh, that's the fun part! I can't tell you!” He cackles as everypony gives him confused expressions. “What fun would that be?”
Khenal sighs. “Do we get a hint?”
Charity glowers at him. “Carrot, your fun has caused us a lot of trouble in the past. Can't you say any more?”
He raises a hoof to his chin. “Well... I can tell you that Friesden will break Khenal's heart.. That's all I'll say.” He motions to the watch. “That'll help when that happens.”
She reexamines the watch, trying to imagine how it could be related to Kenal and Friesden's relationship. The watch appears mundane, aside from the word 'Loyalty' inscribed on the back. Inside, it appears completely normal.
“Trust me, you'll want it.” With those words, Carrot vanishes into a cloud of fog and is gone. Charity pockets the watch.
Lilac comes around, having frozen in fear and astonishment during the exchange. “Wha... wha... what did... that was... but.... how... dad...” She begins hyperventilating.
“It's alright, Lilac,” Khenal reassures her as Otik gently wraps a wing around her.
“But... but... dad... daddy!”
Charity steps over, unwrapping her cloak. She drapes it across Lilac's shoulders and says, “It's okay little one.”
Otik begins to console Lilac. “Shhh... hush now... ye don' have ta yell, hun. He can hear ye just fine.” Lilac begins to stammer something, and she hushes her with a hoof to her lips. “He can always hear ye... he's always with ye...”
Charity shakes her head. “Carrot has a proper tomb up in the tower. He shouldn't be causing trouble like this.” She turns to Falcata. “Falcata, I think we should investigate his resting place.”
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 03:35:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 03:39:08 am
The following post is assuming the dinner is continuing.))
Even as Khenal soured in the corner, almost like grapes, a pony not technically on the invitation list burst in. He looked like he had been running for some time, and he panted as he looked around, saw Khenal, and continued over towards him.
"Khenal...Khenal...Khenal," he panted. "She...she...she's awake."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 03:47:53 am
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 12:00:19 pm
I look confused for a moment, before what the messenger said sinks in.
"Friesden! She's awake?"
I shakily get to my hooves and start to make my way to the stair case.
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 12:18:42 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 01:55:16 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 20, 2011, 02:02:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 02:05:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 03:58:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 04:12:43 pm
As he speaks, she stops dead still.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 04:21:11 pm
"Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 04:24:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 04:27:34 pm
"Could you get off her, please?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 04:39:54 pm
"Please....please, let me out of the chains," Friesden says.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 04:43:28 pm
"I'm so glad you're alright, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 04:48:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 04:50:04 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 04:57:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 05:02:31 pm
"What's wrong?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 05:05:02 pm
She descends into mad babbling.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 05:15:58 pm
"F-Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 05:23:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 05:38:22 pm
'No! She's supposed to be fine! Amberley said she...'
My face shifts to an expression of pure rage.
"AMBERLEY!!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 05:40:28 pm
"Khenal!"
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 05:42:13 pm
"Friesden?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 05:47:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 05:48:35 pm
The chains are starting to pull out of the walls.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 05:50:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 05:54:00 pm
"I...I didn't know if you were real or not. It...it kept pretending. Now I remember it.... But You're real. You're real. I know You are real!"
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 05:55:32 pm
"Y-you can...ugh, you can put me down now."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 06:01:08 pm
Hearing Carrot speak, Charity sets the undead abomination down by the tower. "Do you feel better now Carrot?" she asks.
Spoiler: for The Master (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:05:44 pm
"You're really back! Oh Friesden, I was so scared."
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:08:56 pm
She relaxes....in time to notice Khenal's pain.
"Khenal, you're hurt!"
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:23:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:23:55 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 06:25:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:27:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:28:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:35:28 pm
I relax with my love.
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:40:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:42:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:46:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:50:06 pm
"It's only been a few weeks since the trial, I think."
"...How long do you think it's been?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 06:51:35 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 06:52:18 pm
((I have no idea what the year actually is...))
((The Year is 99.))
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 06:58:43 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:00:29 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:03:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:12:56 pm
"So..That...that never happened? It...oh Sisters... NOOOOOO!"
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:17:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:18:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:24:28 pm
"Shh, it's alright. Whatever you went through, it's over now."
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:25:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:30:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:32:31 pm
She begins to wail.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:36:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 07:56:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 07:59:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:02:59 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 08:05:24 pm
*A pony walks up to Bubbles, and he leaves the dining hall, headed for the tripyith.*
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:05:53 pm
Her answer hits me like a bolt between the eyes.
"Our...?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:10:12 pm
She stops crying and wailing, just falling to the ground, utterly crushed.
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 08:11:18 pm
"I feel alot better Charity...thanks..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 08:11:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 08:13:42 pm
"Likely from putting my body back together using nothing but pieces of other bodies in the other coffins and magic from Venture."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 08:15:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:15:39 pm
"Oh...oh Friesden..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 08:16:10 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 08:18:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:20:04 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 08:20:20 pm
Friesden has been stricken with melancholy!))
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:22:23 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 08:25:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:28:52 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 08:29:28 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 08:33:12 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:35:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:43:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:48:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:51:08 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 08:54:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 08:55:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 08:59:03 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:01:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 09:08:17 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:09:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 09:11:22 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:17:40 pm
((Unless Carrot moves to stop her, Charity will go and look for Falcata so they can finish their conversation in Charity's office.))
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:20:07 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:21:02 pm
"Hello Falcata. How is the stomach?"
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:22:28 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:23:18 pm
((Is the feast still going? Last I read it was, but if not, Falcata is patiently waiting outside Charity's office. If it is, she's still there with Kris.))
((Depends exactly how long everything with Carrot took. I don't think it was that long, their conversation was fairly short, and it wouldn't take that long to reach the surface, so I will assume that you are still at the dinner.))
Charity returns to the dinner and sees Doctor Bubbles chatting with Falcata, she decided not to interrupt and merely retakes her seat next to her, silently.
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:23:37 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:24:05 pm
"Here, take these. If the pain in your stomach ever becomes too much to handle, these will give you instant relief. Should be able to reduce the pain a lot.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 09:24:24 pm
"It'll...be alright. Please, be strong."
I turn and slowly walk away to try to find Isos.
((Anyone want to take Isos, or will I be talking to myself? ;) ))
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:24:50 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:27:37 pm
"Thank you, doctor."
As she notes the duchess return, she turns to her and asks, "How is Carrot?"
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:29:37 pm
"H-Hi....Wh-wh....where..." Lilac sighs.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:31:33 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:32:10 pm
((Falcata isn't in the hospital The Master, she's at the dinner in the dinning hall.))
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 09:32:32 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:32:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 09:35:17 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:35:30 pm
"I... think I'm finished."
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:36:24 pm
"H-Hi....Wh-wh....where..." Lilac sighs.
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 09:37:07 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:39:43 pm
"Oh alright"
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 09:41:36 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:42:35 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:44:30 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:46:12 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 09:48:54 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 09:50:43 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 09:56:32 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 09:59:28 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:00:18 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 10:03:22 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 10:06:08 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 10:07:21 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 10:11:37 pm
*Isos and Khenal enter the room*
((Dsarker, your turn))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:13:07 pm
"I'm sorry about the mess, but please take a seat."
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 10:18:16 pm
***
Kris steps over to Lilac. "Come on, Lilac... what's the matter?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 10:21:01 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 20, 2011, 10:21:52 pm
((Sheeeeet, I have to go. Someone else take control of Isos.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:22:37 pm
"Now miss Falcata, you said you wanted to talk to me in private about something?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 10:23:30 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 10:28:46 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:30:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 10:31:45 pm
"Hmm, you don't seem a threat right now. But you also don't appear to be very stable."
I look pleadingly at Isos, but say nothing.
((It is so hard to not play Isos with a bias right now :P ))
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 10:33:09 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 10:37:54 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 10:39:14 pm
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 10:39:56 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 10:44:26 pm
***
Kris blinks dumbly for a moment. "But... it couldn't have been?"
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 10:47:52 pm
Isos, however, remains unconvinced.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:49:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 10:53:57 pm
((Not sure on the timing, but that feels about right))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 10:56:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 11:00:32 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 11:04:04 pm
She rests a hoof against her stomach and says, "I've been so sick... it's only with very strong medicine from the doctors that I'm able to eat at all." She looks away. "Doctor Bubbles told me... it won't be getting better. It can't. There's only one possible outcome..."
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 11:05:35 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 11:06:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 11:07:25 pm
"Please, Friesden. Don't give up hope. Please..."
Isos has apparently seen and heard all she needs, and turns to leave.
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 11:12:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 11:12:44 pm
***
Kris places a hoof around Lilac. "Aww, come on, it's been a tough few days."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 11:15:52 pm
((You said you where thinking about this before, I hope you came to a decision on it.))
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 11:16:16 pm
"No...Friesden..."
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 11:20:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 11:22:48 pm
"Shh shh shh....it'll be alright, Khenal...you'll get through this."
Post by: Khenal on December 20, 2011, 11:26:53 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 11:28:22 pm
"Kris... she's the reason." She pauses for a moment. "I'm a single mother... if I didn't provide for her, there is nopony else." She continues to stare into the desk instead of Charity's eyes. "I... I'm not sure what I was going to do..."
***
Kris sits next to her, concern in her eyes. "What? Why?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 11:31:19 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 20, 2011, 11:35:24 pm
Charity pauses for dramatic effect.
"Either you take the job I'm offering, with a pay raise, until such a time as your illness makes you unable to work, OR you can retire and I'll make sure you get a pension that can support you and your daughter. Your choice."
Post by: The Master on December 20, 2011, 11:38:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 20, 2011, 11:46:35 pm
"I-I can still work. I want to serve as long as I can." She forms a genuine smile. "Th-thank you, my lady... I accept the position." Her expression turns sheepish. "And... forgive me, my lady... I didn't mean to burden you with my troubles..."
***
"But... I... I don't understand. Where?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 20, 2011, 11:56:43 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 21, 2011, 12:01:36 am
((End of scene?))
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 12:03:22 am
Post by: Telgin on December 21, 2011, 12:03:39 am
((Seems like a reasonable place to cut it off. I assume that we're going to sort of massage the timeline so that your last journal update occurs prior to this, since Falcata was still in the guard at the time?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 21, 2011, 12:06:51 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 12:11:19 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:15:51 am
"Hey You're Friesden right? Whats wrong?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 12:17:59 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:19:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 12:24:29 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:26:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 12:26:51 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:29:13 am
Heiro goes lookin' for Isos
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 12:32:22 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:36:21 am
"Excuse me Commander but If I may ask... why is friesden still chained up?"
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 12:41:24 am
"She is very likely still a threat to the fortress. She appears to still be delusional."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:42:48 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 12:46:23 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:48:26 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 12:51:29 am
Isos shuffles a few papers before she finds the duty roster.
"I can do that, if you like. Just be careful and listen to your partner. I really do feel Friesden is dangerous."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 12:53:42 am
Heiro returns to where Friesden is chained up to tell her about the new arrangement.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 12:58:15 am
"Captain Isos, may I head to Friesden and test her for any mental problems? I must test if she is still a threat to the fort."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 12:59:39 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 01:00:55 am
"No offense, Doctor, but you are no mage and no expert in this problem. I appreciate your concern, but please leaver her alone."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:01:32 am
Yah Pretty mutch my reaction ???
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 01:09:16 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:12:38 am
So I'll be able to take really good care of you. If you need anything just ask and I'll try and get it for you."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 01:14:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:16:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 01:21:33 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:24:18 am
To himself "Or maybe if you don't..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 01:30:32 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:33:53 am
and Khenal isn't AS hysteric. Either way I'm good with stopping for tonight unless anypony else has something to say))
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 01:44:24 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 01:44:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 01:47:53 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:50:22 am
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 01:51:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 01:55:09 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 21, 2011, 01:56:36 am
Post by: Telgin on December 21, 2011, 02:01:01 am
"Wait... I... but... where did you see him? When?"
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 02:04:52 am
Post by: Telgin on December 21, 2011, 02:08:26 am
Kris tries to picture seeing her father again and wonders what it would feel like. She might freeze up too...
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 02:09:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 02:10:50 am
"Starkey, my friend, how are you?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 02:15:07 am
"Fine, I'm... fine."
He turns back to the carving of Luna.
"How are you?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 02:26:14 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 02:35:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 02:38:24 am
"I...I don't think he loves me anymore."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 02:45:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 02:47:47 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 02:56:40 am
"Hey now, don't cry... What happened that made him sad?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 02:59:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 03:07:34 am
"It has to be something more than that. Please... tell me what happened, exactly."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:14:00 am
She broke down, sobbing. "I just want somepony to hold me and tell me it's all going to be alright."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 03:14:33 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 03:30:01 am
Starkey leans in, gently wrapping his hooves around Friesden and pulling her into a hug.
"There... of course everything will be alright... I know it will..."
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 03:33:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:34:40 am
"Thank, thank you."
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 03:36:06 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 03:43:55 am
"Anything for a friend."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:45:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 03:46:40 am
"Hello? Friesden? Are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:51:34 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 03:52:10 am
What is the meaning of this!?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 03:56:10 am
Starkey pauses. Wasn't he? The only ponies who really had much to do with her were himself, Khenal, and Carrot. With Carrot gone, and Khenal-
"Aaaaaaanythin' f'r a friend?"
Starkey turns his head to find himself staring into a familiar pair of rust-colored eyes perched above a well-groomed periwinkle mane and capped by the most disconcerting cheshire grin he had ever seen.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 03:57:05 am
Post by: Khenal on December 21, 2011, 03:58:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:59:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 03:59:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 04:01:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 04:12:25 am
"Hey there sunshine. glad t'see ye up an' about."
She turns to face Starkey, gently tapping him on the nose.
"Thought I'd find ye down 'ere mopin' 'bout Efim, not seducin' poor, vulnerable lit'l fillies."
Otik prods his chest with each word in mock anger, but her expression is pure glee. Starkey is blushing furiously.
"Otik, hun, shouldn't you be resting? You took quite a beating yesterday, and..."
"I'm in bed, en't I?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 04:17:12 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 04:20:19 am
"Friesden, are you alright?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 04:26:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 04:27:40 am
As she settles down, she says sadly "Yes. Was it that loud?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 04:37:01 am
"It's understandable, hun. Ye thought ye finally had a break, thought ye could finally settle down an' spend some time with th' stallion o' yer dreams, an then... it all falls apart. Am I right?"
"I seriously doubt he's actually left her, hun."
"Hush now, Stars, th' girls are talkin'."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 04:48:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 04:55:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:06:39 am
"That, that, that's all that happened."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 05:22:03 am
"I... c'n sympathize. I know what it's like t'have yer own children taken from ye."
"But I also tkink I see what's got Khenal upset."
She repeats Friesden's words: "As you command, so I will obey."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 05:23:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:24:11 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 05:24:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:26:37 am
"But...but that's insane! It's impossible!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 05:28:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:30:53 am
Her hoof continues twitching.
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:32:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 05:35:08 am
"Hey, jus' calm down, hun. We all know ye really love 'im. We jus' hafta find a way t'let him know that."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:36:52 am
Friesden calms herself. The twitching goes away.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 05:51:06 am
"Aye, luv. That sounds like the best course."
Starkey turns to Dr. Bubbles.
"Doctor, would you keep an eye on him? Make sure he doesn't... try anything rash?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 05:52:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:54:47 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 05:55:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 05:57:21 am
"No...No...NO! Did...Did I...NO!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 06:01:09 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 06:05:18 am
"Hey hey hey, calm down, hun! He's gonna be okay. He'd never go an' do somethin' foalish like that."
Starkey recieves a glare from Otik.
"A-Aye, you're right, I'm... that was a foalish thing to say."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 06:07:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 06:12:52 am
"Stop that. Look at me. Breathe. Slow, deep breaths. Dunnae think about anythin' else. Just breathe. Slow... deep... in... out..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 06:14:58 am
"Thank...thank you...oh Sisters..."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 06:21:31 am
She runs a hoof through Friesden's mane. Starkey smiles warmly at them.
"So, what, now you're mother to every little lost filly in Glitterglen?"
"...I s'pose I am, aye. It that a problem?"
"...no. I wouldn't have it any other way."
He embraces them both.
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 06:24:29 am
Friesden starts sobbing tears of happiness onto them.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 06:38:19 am
"I'll stay out here with you tonight, hun."
Starkey looks hurt.
"B-But it's Tuesday! Tuesday night is when we..."
Otik rubs her chin in contemplation.
"Oooh, tha's right."
The mischevious grin returns - oh Sisters, that grin.
"S'okay. Ye can stay out here as well. I'm sure Friesden would appreciate th'show."
Starkeys entire face turns bright red.
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 06:40:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 06:53:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 06:53:44 am
Post by: Telgin on December 21, 2011, 01:14:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 03:58:28 pm
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 04:20:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 04:22:02 pm
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 07:07:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 07:08:08 pm
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 07:10:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 07:14:37 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 07:16:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 07:32:45 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 07:34:09 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 07:35:42 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 10:00:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 10:03:07 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 10:23:11 pm
"Tha' depends, hun. Do you want it t'be nothin'... or somethin'?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 10:28:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 10:57:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:03:15 pm
"Uhm... Friesden, hun... do ye know where foals come from?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:15:07 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 11:16:06 pm
Post by: The Master on December 21, 2011, 11:17:53 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:18:23 pm
"Doctor... perhaps you ought to go see to your patients now?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:19:50 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 21, 2011, 11:21:09 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:25:29 pm
Curiosity and suspicion get the better of her.
"Friesden... has Khenal ever gotten mad at ye b'fore?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:26:44 pm
She begins to hyperventilate again.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:29:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:32:29 pm
She continues to hyperventilate.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:35:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:37:03 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:41:58 pm
"Oh... shh... hush now..."
Her words are calm and soothing. Her eyes, however, tell a different story. They seem almost lit from within, burning with primal rage.
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:45:48 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 21, 2011, 11:50:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 21, 2011, 11:51:01 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 12:01:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 12:06:58 am
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 12:15:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 12:21:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 12:32:39 am
"Who... oh. good morning, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 12:34:45 am
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 12:38:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 12:39:27 am
She almost leaps into Starkey and Otik's hooves.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 12:40:36 am
"So, I trust you slept well last night? Didn't have... any... night... oh dear..."
As starkey looks up, he sees they are not alone. The entire Glitterglen militia is gathered in the barracks, sitting on benches, bunks, or the floor where necessary. They are all staring at him, and they are all grinning stupidly.
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 12:44:12 am
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 12:44:43 am
"CARROT?!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 12:47:49 am
"Nnngh... shtop righ' there... criminul schkum... nopony breaks th' law on my... wha? Carrot? Where?"
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 12:56:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 01:01:43 am
"Stars?"
"Am I awake?"
Otik reaches over Friesden, jabbing a poorly-healed scar on Starkey's wing.
HHYYYEEEEEAAAAAARRRGH
"Aye, I think ye are, hun. Hi, Carrot."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 22, 2011, 01:03:18 am
Captain Isos,
During the celebratory dinner last night Psycho Carrot's undead body started to be pained. Not knowing what else to do we decided to try and take him to his tomb to rest. Upon reaching the surface he, felt better, (or stopped faking, I'm not entirely sure.) and I put him down. We spoke and he confided in me that his new form was made from parts taken from the graves of other ponies, magically given life by Venture. (Who he forced to assist him somehow, against the poor mare's will.) I told him that this was not acceptable and that I would have to report it to you and the Inquisitor, however, he threatened to release secrets about me if I did so, however I don't know what secrets he's referring to.
I'm not making any orders about what you need to do about him at the moment, but you may act as you see fit with this new information. However, if he could control Venture, he has become very dangerous, and should you decided to confront him, don't do it alone.
On an unrelated note, a book of mine has vanished from my shelf, a very large old leather bound tome, with a silver clasp. I bought it from the last Zebra caravan over a year ago, and it is full of some very dark magic. I acquired it to learn more about the demons we've been fighting, but now I fear it could have fallen into the wrong hands. I suggest you keep an eye and an ear open for it.
Charity ConventTulip, Duchess of the Failed Jungles, Mayor of Glitterglen, Chief Record Keeper of Glitterglen.
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 01:04:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 01:09:16 am
"W-What, I... Carrot.. alive... hide... What the clop is going on here!?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 01:10:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 01:27:08 am
"Carrot, what are ye doin' here? An' why should we hide ye?"
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 01:29:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 01:30:42 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 01:39:05 am
"Guardspony! You will stand down!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 01:42:12 am
"And you, Isos, will stop shouting! Friesden is already in a horrible state of mind, and you're just making it worse!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 01:42:21 am
"Captain Isos? What is the meaning of all this?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 01:43:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 01:50:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 01:51:10 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 01:58:59 am
"You will return to your post, or you will be relieved."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:02:42 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 02:04:51 am
"Captain, what's going on here?"
Post by: DVNO on December 22, 2011, 02:10:31 am
Quote
striking Darkmane down.
(( struck down as in dead? injured? I'm fine with either of those. just don't tell me couth is locked in a jail cell. ))
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 02:10:58 am
"Apologies, Commander. One of my ponies got a bit angry and irrational."
She takes in the scene: Otik, Starkey and Carrot around Friesden. She hesitates before speaking again.
"Commander? Do you feel Friesden is safe to be released?"
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 02:12:42 am
Quotestriking Darkmane down.
(( struck down as in dead? injured? I'm fine with either of those. just don't tell me couth is locked in a jail cell. ))
((Oh, he's quite dead. I hope to have the entire thing up tomorrow sometime.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 22, 2011, 02:14:52 am
Quotestriking Darkmane down.
(( struck down as in dead? injured? I'm fine with either of those. just don't tell me couth is locked in a jail cell. ))
((He's not just merely dead. He died and then exploded!))
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:15:49 am
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 02:18:03 am
((He's not just merely dead. He died and then exploded!))
((Yep, Falcata learned in that fight to never cross the duchess. She almost doesn't need a bodyguard, heh.))
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 02:19:03 am
"Kill that noise, soldier!"
"S-Sir, yes sir!"
"Now, then. I don't believe she's a threat to anypony, captain. She's safe to go about unchained."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 22, 2011, 02:19:44 am
((He's not just merely dead. He died and then exploded!))
((Yep, Falcata learned in that fight to never cross the duchess. She almost doesn't need a bodyguard, heh.))
((Twas a lucky shot.))
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 02:28:41 am
"Remove her chains and return her to her quarters. I want her accompanied by a guardspony at all times she is not in her quarters, with a guard outside when she is."
She looks down to Friesden.
"You are on probation, Miss Friesden. Once I am fully convinced that you pose no threat to Glitterglen, I will remove your accompaniment. Have a good day."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:29:58 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 02:36:29 am
"Sigh...Isos always forgets that the chief medical pony is higher ranking than the captain of the guard. She's the one who should be listening to me."
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 02:42:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:45:28 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 02:46:03 am
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 02:46:58 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 02:50:21 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 02:51:21 am
"Carrot? Please accompany me. I'd like to ask you a few questions."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 03:04:49 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 03:07:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 03:09:03 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 03:13:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 03:18:32 am
Friesden felt the chains removed, and still didn't move. If anything, her grip grew tighter.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 03:34:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 03:35:33 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 03:36:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 03:37:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 03:38:53 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 03:44:38 am
"I'll go and look for Khenal", he whispers soft enough that Friesden can't hear."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 03:50:51 am
"He isn't in the hospital?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 03:53:22 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 03:57:42 am
He pauses.
"Don't say anything to him. Not yet. I'll need to talk to him before I let Friesden see him again, and... I'm not quite ready to do that yet."
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 03:59:20 am
"Almost..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 04:00:14 am
*Bubbles heads to the Hospital.*
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 04:05:50 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 04:06:43 am
The energy is released, raw and unformed, before spiraling back into my horn. As Bubbles approaches the door, he sees a bright flash from behind it, and hears a brief scream.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 04:09:16 am
"Nothin' t'see here, lads. Out. Now."
Reluctantly, they all file out the door.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 04:09:16 am
*Bubbles bucks down the door*
((Yes, for the 6th time now.))
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 04:10:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 04:11:35 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 04:13:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 04:18:11 am
"Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you," she says.
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 04:18:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 04:23:02 am
"What, those lads? They're harmless, hun. no need t'be scared o' them."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 04:32:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 04:40:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 04:41:24 am
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 01:54:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:27:52 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 22, 2011, 02:41:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 02:42:09 pm
The last word is too quiet to hear.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 06:43:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 07:11:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 07:48:02 pm
Otik hesitates. A little filly who had just lost her whole family? Of course, she wouldn't hesitate to take her in. But Friesden? She's a grown mare, that's a different matter entirely.
Isn't it?
She remembers her story. The cruelty of her father. The indifference of her mother. Nopony deserves that kind of life, least of all this mare. If she could give Friesden the family she deserved, why shouldn't she?
"A-Aye. Yes. Of course I'll be your mother."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 07:49:48 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 08:18:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 08:53:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 09:06:48 pm
"No, Friesden. You've been through so much... too much. You're the one who's owed."
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 09:11:55 pm
"I...I love you. Thank you, so much."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 09:25:11 pm
"D'awww..."
A small knot of soldiers has been watching them from the doorway. A glare from Otik sends them scurrying.
Post by: Dsarker on December 22, 2011, 09:28:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 09:35:56 pm
"I've burnt out again. On purpose. I doubt I'll be able to even light a candle or levitate a feather for a week. Isn't it wonderful?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 22, 2011, 09:42:59 pm
*Bubbles runs out, heading to the triptych.*
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 09:44:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 10:08:32 pm
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 10:26:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 10:30:01 pm
Regardless, her nerves had her stomach unsettled pretty badly. Nothing like butterflies to add to systemic necrosis... and the only thing for that was to see Dr. Bubbles in the hospital for another dose of his long term medication. She wasn't in enough pain to use the pills he'd given her the day before.
She approaches the hospital door and slowly pushes it open, hoping to avoid waking any sleeping patients. Khenal was probably still bedridden, and she didn't want to bother him.
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 10:31:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 10:35:14 pm
I give them a smile, even as another small wisp of smoke rises from my horn.
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 10:38:12 pm
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 10:40:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 10:42:18 pm
I turn slightly to face Carrot.
"I certainly did, but it's not permanent."
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 10:44:40 pm
"ARE YOU REALLY THAT STUPID?! HOW WILL YOU DEFEND YOURSELF NOW?!" Snaps Carrot, an inch from Khenal face.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 22, 2011, 10:46:51 pm
"Friesden, hun, why don't ye go on an' get some breakfast? Starkey n'me have some... things t'talk about."
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 10:50:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 10:52:23 pm
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 10:53:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 10:55:11 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 10:58:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:00:23 pm
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 11:01:09 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:04:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 11:06:43 pm
I spend a few moments recovering before answering Falcata.
"I did it because I may have done something very bad, and removing my magic for a time was the best solution I could think of. There shouldn't be any permanent damage, I was careful."
Realizing how hypocritical that sounded, I try to give a reassuring smile.
Post by: The Master on December 22, 2011, 11:07:57 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 22, 2011, 11:11:48 pm
Charity's Journal 12th Sandstone 99
Today has been madness. It started innocently enough I was sitting in my office filling out the paper work to mandate the construction of more amulets, but then I heard the sound of yelling from downstairs. I went to investigate, and found the Late Psycho Carrot, seemingly having taken physical form fighting with Otik. Once the fight was broken up Carrot gave me a pocket watch, which he said belonged to his deceased wife Kil. He said it would be important, but looking at it, it seems quite mundane, never the less I'll keep it on my person, just in case.
After that he hinted that we should go explore his tomb, we wanted to wait till Khenal could walk again, but we where forced by the spirit to go right then. Falcata, Otik, and myself, helped Khenal to make his way up the stairs. When we got the tomb we found that a hole had been blown in the side of the tower, and rope lead out of it. “Had someone been using the hole to enter the fort from the outside”, I thought to myself. However, Psycho revealed that the cult held meetings on the top of the tower, he wanted us to charge them, we explained that that was foolish, we didn't know the numbers and with Otik having gone back down to watch the children, the only ponies that could stand where Carrot, Falcata, and myself. We wanted to get help, but Psycho insisted that we had to act now.
We made our way to the top of the tower, I laid Khenal down and we saw that Amberly Vail, was fighting with Couth Darkmane, the apparent leader of this cult. We all assisted her in bringing him down, and killing him. During the fight he tossed a poisoned dagger at me, but Falcata jumped in the way and took the blow to her stomach. She will be rewarded for her bravery. That much I can promise.
After the fight Falcata seemed to be hallucinating, it is from this that I gather the blade was poisoned, I took her down to the hospital where Nurse Venture helped her.
Amberly then went and executed the cultist prisoners, counting Couth there was 7 in all, along with 2 foals that she claimed had been irrecoverably corrupted by the cult.
I was personally surprised to hear that Doctor Allen was among those excecuted, his loss will be felt most of all. Second, his assistant and the apprentice to old Nages (Legendary Glass-worker killed in the amulets incident.) was also put to death, her death means we have nopony who knows how to work glass. A loss. We also lost a pegasus stallion from the guard. Along with a few other less important ponies.
Charity's Journal 13th Sandstone 99
We had a celebratory dinner for us finally dealing with the cultists, hopefully we can put all this behind us. I offered Falcata a position as my captain of my security and she accepted. Carrot confessed to me the secrets of his new body, and I was appalled, he's been reported to Captain Isos, although I don't know what she'll do with him, if anything.
Charity's Journal 26th Sandstone 99
The only foal of Bal our stonecrafter has reached adulthood, the Unicorn Stallion, name Shigos wishes the join the military. I'm putting him the militia under Commander Starkey.
Charity’s Journal 28th Sandstone 99
Bebmal, ((Venture's family.)) had another foal today. Another Pegasus. This one's a little colt.
Charity's Journal 9th Timber, 99
Pokionic was seen in the halls, today showing the aspects of one fey! He's heading to the Leather works shop near the jewlers! ((He's a triple legend in Gem setting, Leather working, and Organizing.)) He's gathered a lot of material and has begun construction on something.
11th Timber 99
I've been working with the smiths to create a hammer for my new captain. It is rediculously over decorative, yet, Ironya promises me it is still very very effective. Work isn't quite done yet though.
12th Timber 99
Pokionic has finished his work, and he's made. A shoe. He's named it Lyricmatches.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Lyricmatches.png
Charity's Journal 16th Timber 99
Scout's have spotted a caravan of cave ponies in the jungle. They will be here in a day or two.
Charity's Journal 24th Timber 99
Our woodcutters working in the cave were ambushed by a tribe of rodent apes, fortunately nopony was hurt. ((game still calls them rodent men, but I thought that sounded wrong in a game with no humans.)) Starkey's militia is hunting down the creatures and plans on killing them. I wish them luck.
((I think Khenal just tried to kill himself. He just flew up the waterfall in his room and was in the area the water flows from, he then got washed back out.))
Charity's Journal 25th Timber, 99
The diplomat from the cave ponies this year was an Underlord. I'd never scene one up close before. With their eight legs, and magical tusks. They are quite intimidating, Though Elot was nice enough, and our meeting went well, brief as it was.
Charity's Journal 28th Timber 99
Falcata's hammer is finally ready. I'm going to go present it to her right now. I've asked the smiths and craftsponies involved to keep quiet about the design, so as far as I know she has no idea what it is yet, I can't wait to see the look on her face when I hand it's case to her, and she opens it.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Falcata%27s%20Hammer.png
((I was going to add Blue Jade to it as well, but discovered that gems can't be put on weapons. A pity.))
((Falcata's condition remains unchanged as far as I can tell without her being re-diagnosed.))
((One last note, I'm going to be out of town for the next week. I'll be visiting family up in Michigan. I'll be around on here, but not regularly. So try not to get Charity directly involved unless absolutely necessary, unless I happen to find time to get involved myself. If for some reason you need Charity to do something, and I'm not online. Telgin you may take the reigns. ))
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:13:44 pm
This was completely unlike anything she would normally do, but she was worried about him... and if she could help him, she wanted to do what she could. "Do... do you want to talk about it? I mean... I understand if you don't... I won't bother you..."
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 11:21:56 pm
"Actually, I don't really want to talk about it. But I think I need to. Do you know why I came to Glitterglen?"
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:24:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 11:32:05 pm
"It's partially to do with my specialty in magic, Falcata. I excel at enchantment. Specifically: mind effecting enchantment. It's a very powerful and dangerous field of study. I was heading unique research, trying to give possessed ponies back their minds. Glitterglen is not the only place to have daemons, though we seem to have far more than our fair share.
"I was a very different pony then. I didn't see them as ponies, just...research subjects."
I close my eyes and hang my head in shame. I've dealt with my past, but I'm still not proud of how I treated those poor ponies.
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:37:08 pm
"Khenal... I... I had no idea..."
Post by: Khenal on December 22, 2011, 11:53:12 pm
"Very few know. Eventually, I thought I had solved the problem and had found a spell to stop possession. It did seem to work, but it had to be maintained. Either cast regularly, or constantly channeled. Eventually, somepony messed up. It snowballed quickly, so many... so many died because of my research. I... contemplated suicide, but decided I hadn't earned the right to die.
"I couldn't let that be all I left to ponykind. I couldn't let all those deaths be for nothing. But I couldn't risk letting my knowledge of magic fall into the hooves of daemons, either. If a daemon got access to the magic I know... what we've seen so far would be nothing.
"It took me a year, but I finally created a spell to seal memories that wouldn't have to be constantly recast. With my knowledge sealed, Princess Hugwax had little use for me anymore, and sent me here."
I sigh heavily.
"And I haven't even gotten to the part where I explain why I burned myself out just a few minutes ago..."
Post by: Pokon on December 22, 2011, 11:57:01 pm
It might be wrong to refere to oneself in third person, but whos going to know? Perhapes those others from my former home were right,and that I did go native with the Zebra. Neverless, hardly explains why I am here, right? Heh, perhapes leaving for this little town was great, perhapes one of the better things he ever did. Whoops, slipped again. Oh, never actualy said who I was, did I?
I am Pokionic, The Glue Maker.
Heh, those silly Zebras and there silly titles. Well, to be fair, the one time I did make it was with a willing mare who lost her husband to a griffon raid. Brain was caved in by a manticore slave-solder. Neverless, her remains were found, and I was exported. Wonder why. Silly Zebras, to think that making me leave would kill me! Neverless, my skills where needed, and was part of a camp that sold gems to the few Dog packs who where forced to live in the savana. Poor souls. As for my gemworking skills, there is a simple reason, realy.
I am Pokionic, Dragon-decendent.
To be fair, it was something waaayyy down the family tree. As for how, I would like to think Dragon Magic. Whatever the cause, I have a big guy down the family tree, and it gives one certiant...insights into the surroundings. I knew, for instance, that Psycho Carrot would die, but that something was off about it. I knew this even before he died. I can tell a ponies relitives by scent alown, and while I will never admit it, I can tell when one is pregnent or not. Celestia knows how actual dragons deal with this baggage of mential crap. Or perhapes its just what happens when Unicorn blood mixes with a magical creature. Knew a cousin down the line with a bat wings and could breath fire, think he joined the shadowbolts a while back. Twit died when he tried to hold his breath while breathing fire, and it all backed into his lungs.Thats beside the point, however.
I am Pokionic, the Gem-worker,
With all these skills, you may ask, why be a Gemsetter?! Simple: most dont pay attention to one with such a low-key job, even after one makes a nice shoe. Personaly, that shoe was inspired by the fact that the things around here are very much willing to possess one who shows signs of madness. I can only hape that I could be resilant to the things around here, and make some freinds.
After all, Pokionic is not a stupid pony.
Post by: Telgin on December 22, 2011, 11:58:51 pm
"Oh, Khenal... I'm so sorry. If... if it's too personal... I understand..."
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 12:17:20 am
"She's had a very hard life, and has very poor mental defense because of it. I know, I've... I've been in her head. I've helped her, and seen her overcome her past as well. But... I fear I may have done something terrible to her. For a while now, I've worried that she was..."
I choke up at this point, fighting back tears. After a few moments, I manage to continue.
"...That she was Enthralled. Yesterday... I think my fear was confirmed. 'As you command.' she said to me. I-I realized what I had done, the injustice I was dealing to her. I've... I've burned myself out, Falcata, because it's the simplest way I can think to break her Enthrallment. The short times I've spend burnt out may not have been enough to allow it to fade, so... I'm trying an extended duration."
By this point, my voice drips with sorrow, but my eyes are dry and determined.
"I love her, Falcata, and I will not have her controlled by anypony. Especially not me."
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 12:21:58 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 12:27:44 am
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 12:30:32 am
"Oh, Khenal..."
She almost nuzzles him, but catches herself in the motion. That... wouldn't be appropriate...
"I know somepony like you would never do something like that on purpose..." She blinks back more tears as she looks at Khenal's broken expression. "We... we all do strong things in the name of love..."
Genuine tears begin to form in her eyes as she thinks about just how much that phrase applied to her. Luna, she felt like she needed to tell somepony about it... keeping it bottled up from even her daughter. But this wasn't the time. "I understand now... I know you're doing the right thing." She forms a small smile. "It'll work out, I promise..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 12:52:38 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 12:52:59 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 12:54:16 am
Starkey is taken aback. "What do you mean? She's fine now, you saw her!"
Otik shakes her head. "It's not her I'm worried about. It's him."
"...This is about what she said last night, isn't it?"
"I've worked domestic cases, Starkey. I've seen how a battered mare acts when ye confront her."
"I know, hun. I just... the idea that Khenal would do something like-"
-Doctor Bubbles bursts in.-
"He what? Clop, I was afraid of something like this. Otik, please go with Friesden. We'll... talk more later."
((It bears mentioning that the militia have now headed off to either breakfast or their posts. The 'news' should be spreading quickly now. :D))
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 01:05:25 am
"Oh. Hi...mum?" she says hesitantly.
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 01:06:25 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 01:09:55 am
"So, how are you doing?"
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 01:12:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 01:15:51 am
"Hey, Friesden. Decided I ought t'get breakfast out o' the way b'fore my shift."
- - - - - -
Starkey enters the infirmary.
"Khenal? Doc Bubbles said you were... hurting yourself. Is that true?"
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 01:18:05 am
But... perhaps she should tell him what doing things in the heat of passion could cause. No... that... that would just upset him more too.
She notes Captain Starkey enter and banishes the thought altogether. No, no need to bring any of that up now.
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 01:19:05 am
The door to the hospital crashes down, with an angry guard standing over the bloody mangled body of Carrot.
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 01:22:07 am
"Um... not permanently?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 01:23:38 am
Friesden joins Otik with a smile on her face.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 01:26:57 am
- - - - - -
"So... mum. I havenae been called that in a long time. It... it feels good."
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 02:00:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 02:04:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 02:06:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 02:11:24 am
"Gossipin'. My guess is th' lads have been talkin' 'bout what happened last night. Or what they think happened, a'least."
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 02:13:03 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 02:16:50 am
Starkey stops to think for a moment.
"Wait... this is about Friesden, isn't it? Let me guess: you think that some spell or curse of yours is controlling her, and by burning yourself out, you'll break it?"
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 02:17:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 02:29:28 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 02:32:00 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 02:35:04 am
"Khenal, you fail to see the truth of things."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 02:39:30 am
"Khenal, you are an idiot."
- - - - - -
*sigh* "It's just gossip, Fri. dunnae pay it any mind."
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 02:40:23 am
Friesden continues walking right besides Otik.
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 02:41:41 am
"That's what everypony tells me..."
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 02:42:12 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 02:45:24 am
"I'll explain later. Here, i got these for you. Took a long time to make, and I only have the supplies to make these few. "
*Bubbles hand Falcata 5 pills.*
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 02:49:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 03:00:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 03:08:30 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 03:15:59 am
"As you Command. That's what she said to me, Starkey!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 03:32:16 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 03:35:07 am
I deflate, slumping to the bed.
"I'm afraid it's me..."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 03:43:02 am
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 03:57:26 am
I sigh and hang my head.
"I really hope I'm just being as stupid and foalish as everypony seems to think I am. But I'd do anything for her, Starkey. A week of no magic to guarantee Friesden is her own pony? I'll gladly pay it."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 04:03:59 am
He approaches Khenal, staring into his eyes.
"One week. Just one week. Promise me that after that, you'll forget about all this so both of you can move on with your lives?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 04:19:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 04:27:07 am
"What's th'matter, hun? Crowds gettin' to ye?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 04:32:06 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 04:39:57 am
Her ears swivel about, seeking out snippets of conversation.
"From th' sound o' things, they all like ye a lit'l... too much."
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 04:40:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 05:13:04 am
"They're talkin'... 'bout last night..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 05:22:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 05:47:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 05:50:31 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 05:56:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 05:59:20 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 06:01:32 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 23, 2011, 06:49:08 am
Charity's Journal 1st Opal 99
I had the military line up for inspection today. It was miserable. Not the soldiers, though there are some holes in their ranks, it is their gear. Far to many of them are making do with sub-par equipment, some of them still have bone or leather covering their flanks. It is unacceptable. I've spoken with the armorers and they are going to use our remaining steel and bronze to try and outfit a few more. Unfortunately there isn't enough steel available, and our smelters aren't able to keep up with the volume of metal crap we acquire that needs melting down, I think we will have to add another smelter to our system.
Chairty's Journal 4th Opal 99
We've been working on setting up a private barracks for Cryptson and my private guard to train in. It's being built on the floor with my masonry workshop. Just two floors up from the dinning hall. Falcata has taken a personal interest in it's construction as well. I saw her helping to smooth the floor earlier today.
Ah yes, I forgot to mention, I've assigned Captain Falcata and her daughter Carrot's old home, right across the hall from my home, and right next to the Dinning Hall, it's in a wonderful position, I hope they can feel at home there.
19th Opal 99
Our scouts have spotted another horrible creature in the deep.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Gedor.png
20th Opal 99
Fortunately the beast was not as tough as it had appeared to be, and was dispatched with ease by our well trained fighting ponies.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Gedor%20Combat%20Report.png
It was Itur, one of Otik's mare's that got the killing strike, and after the fight she gave her weapon the name, Sellflash.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Sellflash.png
Also, today, Ironya gave birth to her first daughter. A little earthpony.
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 07:24:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 07:28:47 am
I feel like the operative now.))
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 09:42:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 02:06:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 23, 2011, 03:13:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 23, 2011, 06:11:02 pm
Falcata's Diary - 12th Sandstone, 99
I'm back in the hospital again. My head is killing me, not to mention the cut and stab wound I've received. I was pretty shocked to wake up finding the duchess sitting next to me, concern plastered on her face. I didn't really understand what was going on at the time, but she seemed positively elated that I was awake. Apparently, the fact that I'm not babbling nonsense is new too, which worries me. I hope I didn't say anything... off putting or incriminating while I was out of it.
My memories of what happened over the last day are a bit fuzzy, which is surely related to the pounding in my head. I do remember Carrot appearing before us, heading to the tower... and fighting Couth Darkmane. I don't really remember much from there. Lady Charity tells me that I heroically placed myself between between her and a blow from Darkmane, possibly saving her life in the process. I... vaguely remember doing that... but in any case she was most grateful, and I understand she personally carried me down here. I'm... touched that she would go through the trouble herself. Wasn't there anypony else there to carry me?
I regret that I didn't have a chance to thank her in turn. She left a few hours ago, and at the time I was still fighting to remain conscious and lucid. The thought didn't even cross my mind while she was here. I should go tell her in person when I get the chance.
For now, I'm just too tired to do anything. Kris has been here with me since I've been awake, but I don't know when she got here. I could tell she had been crying her little heart out again, and this time I don't really blame her. I didn't break my leg this time... I really could have given my life for the duchess. I didn't even think about Kris when I made that decision...
13th Sandstone, 99
I'm totally blown away. I didn't expect Lady Charity to host a feast commemorating our victory, much less ask me to be seated at her right side. When we got there, she revealed to me that she was so impressed by my selflessness and courage, she wanted to make me captain of her personal bodyguard! I was shocked, and didn't know what to say, and so without thinking about it, I accepted. I kind of regret that, and told her that we need to talk in private. She doesn't know I'm dying... and I'd hate to accept the position only to have it vacated so soon. I haven't had a chance to speak with her yet... I hope she takes it well.
14th Sandstone, 99
I spoke with the duchess today, and I really must say that my opinion of her has changed dramatically in the past few days. After hearing about the amulet incident, I was actually a bit scared of her, and made it a point to avoid contact with her as much as possible and to remain as formal and obedient to her when she was around. Today though... I realized that she's actually a very kind pony, and it's only because of her title that I feared her before.
She was very understanding about my condition, and left the offer for me to command her personal bodyguard open. When I told her why I wished to remain in the guard, she offered to give me and Kris a pension for the rest of our lives. I... was completely shocked to hear the offer. I accepted the position as her bodyguard, and she told me that she would see to getting me some new equipment for my position.
I feel a bit selfish accepting it, since I'm sure there's somepony else who could put the equipment to better use than me, but I didn't want to question her. I considered taking the retirement... but I still haven't told Kris what's wrong with me, and retiring would basically force me to do that. I'm... still not ready for that. Not yet.
Kris' Diary - 18th Sandstone, 99
Oh, diary... I've been so upset the last few days that I haven't been able to write a thing, even in you. At first I was really happy when mom told me that she was going to be fine after her fight, and that Lady Charity had given her a promotion for what she did... but it didn't last long.
Mom... has been really sad lately, even after she got the promotion. And when I was looking around today... I found her diary. I know I'm not supposed to read it, and she would be really mad at me if she found out... but I couldn't help it. She's been so upset lately that she doesn't even eat much... and I wanted to know if I could help.
I almost couldn't even read it all. Lilac was right! Mom really is dying! I felt sick after reading it, and I cried for hours. It was tough... but I think I managed to get her to believe that I just didn't feel good when she got home. I almost can't look at her, knowing that she's dying... she... she lied to me! She said she was going to be okay! Why would she do that!?
Oh... mommy... (Tears stain the page, disrupting another paragraph)
She... she wrote that there is nothing anypony can do. I can't believe that there isn't anything anypony can do! Dr. Bubbles has to be able to do something! Or... mom always said that Mr. Khenal was the most powerful wizard in Glitterglen. Maybe he can help? But... she told me not to bother him... and if I do, he'll probably tell her that I read her diary...
Oh, diary... I... I don't know what to do!
16th Timber, 99
Sometimes I forget what I read in mom's diary, but when I remember, I start crying again. It's been almost a month since I read it... and I still can't believe it. I think she thinks something is wrong with me now... but I haven't told her what happened. She... she keeps acting like nothing is wrong. I don't understand why she doesn't tell me...
If nopony here can help her... then... I heard that a caravan should be here soon. Maybe somepony there would know what to do? Do they bring doctors? I think I'll go check tomorrow morning when mom is on duty. She doesn't have to know, and I don't think anypony there would tell her. They wouldn't know she was my mom, right?
Falcata's Diary, 28th Timber, 99
Kris knows something is wrong with me. I can see it in her face every time she looks at me. I feel horrible for not telling her the truth, but so far I haven't been able to muster the courage to crush her like that. I have the courage to throw my life away to save the duchess, but not tell my own daughter the truth. What kind of mother am I? I think I've waited long enough, she deserves to know the truth. I'm going to try to find the easiest way to break it to her, but I don't think such a thing exists. I'm not sure what to do.
Lady Charity summoned me to her office today, so I didn't tell Kris yet. There she presented me with an absolutely beautiful new silver warhammer to signify my new position. I assumed it was just for ceremonial use, considering the ornamentations on it but she assured me that Ironya intends it for combat use and that I shouldn't be afraid of damaging it. I hope I never have to swing it at a foe, but I know that's probably a forlorn hope. I thanked her in earnest and asked her to pass my thanks off to Ironya and the other craftsponies for doing such a superb job.
I really must find someplace to display it. I wouldn't want to appear ungrateful!
4th Opal, 99
As if the warhammer wasn't enough, Lady Charity summoned me to her office today to tell me that Kris and I were going to be moving into Captain Carrot's old room across from hers. I wasn't expecting that, and I again thanked her so much for the gift. I shouldn't have any problems finding somewhere to display my weapon now. I just hope Carrot isn't too put off by us moving into his old home. If he has any thoughts on it, I'm sure he'll find a way to let me know...
((Just wow, that came out long winded. Not sure how much butchering I did with the timeline, but I think it'll fit in eventually. Some of that takes place days or weeks ahead of the current RP, so I'll have to wait a bit before posting any more on some of this. Plot hooks ahoy! Perhaps I should start on that choose your own adventure while I wait?
I also just realized that it's kind of odd to put ellipses in journal entries. It's supposed to be the characters writing it out, not saying it, but it's hard not to. I'm too lazy to go rewrite it all. :P))
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 06:31:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 07:17:08 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 07:26:04 pm
Scared out of his mind, he dashes to where he belives she might be, following the tugging of his horn. Hopefuly, he thinks, he will not interupt the timid mare in any conversation she is currantly having, for he belives he must get some choice bits of information from her.
(Could the transcription be seperated into Strongbeards posts, and,well, everyone elses, Master? Would be helpful for those attepting to backtrack on the fortresses progress. )
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 07:30:28 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 07:59:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:02:30 pm
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 08:03:27 pm
"Hi Friesden!!!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:06:12 pm
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 08:10:00 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:16:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:18:19 pm
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 08:21:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:24:28 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:26:19 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 08:27:18 pm
"Listen here kid, just who th' clop do ye think ye are, harrassin' my stepdaughters?"
((Dammit people, you move too fast!))
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:29:24 pm
They leer. "Hey, pretty filly. We heard 'bout what you did to Otik and Starkey last night. 'ow 'bout you give us a demonstration?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:30:53 pm
"Oi! What the clop do you think you're doing, harassing the poor filly? Get away! Now!"
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:32:44 pm
In the back of his mind, his inner voice was screaming "Ohgodspleasedontbreakmylegsandthrowmeinahydrasnestohgodspleasedontgeldmeohbythe
scalyancesterspleasedontbreakmepleasebegentle!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:33:07 pm
"You'll leave, right now, if you know what's good for you. Me and me mate just need a little relaxation, and this filly right here is going to give it to us, isn't she?"
Friesden squeaks.
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:34:45 pm
It be a insight into the future. Trolololo.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 08:35:25 pm
- - - - - -
"Look, I've been listenin' ta what's goin' 'round, an' I can tell ye right now Friesden doesnae need your brand o' help, ya lit'l pervert!"
((Pokon hasn't made it out of the dining hall. Otik stopped him.))
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:36:59 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:39:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:41:41 pm
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 08:41:53 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:42:39 pm
"Friesden, are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:43:35 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:44:14 pm
OTIIIIK!"
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:45:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:46:47 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:47:41 pm
"Whoops."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 08:48:17 pm
Otik releases Pokon and rushes to Friesden's side.
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:49:05 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:49:59 pm
(Hey, a few years of living with Zebras rubs off)
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 08:50:38 pm
"Otik, will you come here for a moment?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 08:52:42 pm
"Go. Now."
"Not now, doc. I need t'see to Friesden."
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 08:58:03 pm
He begins to walk away.
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 08:59:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 09:02:37 pm
"You knew this was goin' t'happen? You... I should have yer cloppin' balls on a plate, you sonovabitch!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 09:04:23 pm
*Bubbles leans in to Otik's ear, and whispers,*
"There were two militiaponies here. When Friesden bumped into them, they tried to take her away and **** her. And Otik, I think you're misunderstanding Pokon. He saw them taking Friesden, and tried to go after them. You were the CLOPPING one who stopped him. Friesden would be pleasing them if I hadn't passed by."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 09:07:13 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 09:08:39 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 23, 2011, 09:10:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 09:12:31 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 09:15:44 pm
Otik sits next to Friesden.
"It's okay, hun. They're gone. Yer safe."
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 09:17:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 09:20:45 pm
She takes in a deep breath.
"I DON'T WANNA DIE!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 09:23:25 pm
"Yer not gonna die, hun. Nopony's gonna hurt ye. Not while I'm here."
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 09:29:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 09:30:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 09:39:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 09:42:39 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 23, 2011, 09:45:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 23, 2011, 09:49:05 pm
Post by: The Master on December 23, 2011, 10:03:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 23, 2011, 10:56:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:00:10 am
"24 hours."
I get out of the bed, ribs and back still sore.
"I... should I try to find Friesden?"
Meanwhile, Isos has yet another unique situation to handle.
"What is this?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 24, 2011, 12:09:50 am
"Khenal! You're finally awake!"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 12:11:02 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:20:38 am
Isos raises an eyebrow at the militia ponies, then looks down at the tied up ponies, no trace of mercy in her eyes.
"I think she's smart and creative enough to punish them as they deserve. Unless she wishes for something... official to be done?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 24, 2011, 12:22:27 am
At most two days."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 12:25:01 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:27:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 12:32:11 am
"I-I heard them talking about... what they wanted to do to Miss Friesden, ma'am."
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:38:13 am
"What did they want to do?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 12:40:22 am
The young soldier looks around nervously, then leans in and whispers something in the captain's ear.
((Use your imagination.))
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:46:04 am
"Take them to a cell, please. You don't need to be gentle. Pardon me."
She storms past the ponies, ruthlessly stepping on the ones tied up as she leaves to find Captain Otik.
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 12:48:26 am
It was just relaxing to shut the door, and with it, all that happened since she woke. Lilac talked the night away, and freed her from the need.
She thought through the night, and remembered, now she woke. Khenal.
She loved him...and yet, feared him. She didn't know where the words "As you command, so I shall obey" had come from, but they had risen unbidden, from instinct. Something warned her to be careful. She carefully opened the door, and prepared to find Khenal again. He would know what the words meant.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 12:51:13 am
Glaring at the two tied-down militaponies, he added "To be fair, it is quite a shock to learn that two of the ponies that we are supposed to give our lives up too are nothing more than a pair of pathetic creatures not worthy to be part of a dog warren. At least they give some thought on what might happen next in a given situation. There should be some sort of system to weed out such idiots before one even gets the chance to weild a wooden spear, no?"
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 12:54:39 am
"morinin', Cap'n."
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 01:01:42 am
Where was Khenal? She remembered they had said it. But it hurt to try to remember. But...she had to. Her head throbbed as she tried to think. Where was he? Where was he?
She swayed, and found it hard to stay up. Like the fortress was rocking. Where...where was she? Tailentranced? She was in-
She collapsed to the floor, babbling nonsensical sounds.
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 01:06:55 am
I turn to leave, but stop at the doorway.
"Do you happen to know where Friesden is?"
Captain Isos gives the new pony a measuring glance.
"Indeed. If you are willing to testify, please follow the militiaponies to the cells. I will be along soon to speak with you."
Eventually, she finds Captain Otik at the firing range.
"Good morning Captain. Your men tell me you have important testimony against a few ponies from yesterday? If you have a moment, could you follow me to my office so I can take your statement."
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:10:12 am
Pokionics horn glows blue, than a deep purple, which then envelopes the babbling filly.
"Think happy thoughts..."
.......................................
Rather stressed, he sayes to the militaponies thru clenched teeth
"My good ponies, I will follow you in just a minute. I mearly need to put this filly in a better condition for Otik to find her in and I will go with you as Isos asked."
Post by: Impending Doom on December 24, 2011, 01:12:58 am
- - - - - -
Otik lowers her crossbow, slinging it across her back.
"Those two troublemakers from yesterday mornin'? Aye, I have a bit t'say."
She follows Isos.
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 01:14:57 am
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 01:18:57 am
"Friesden? What's the matter?"
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:25:05 am
If you want to help, go find Otik and scream your head off. If this has happened before, she should know!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 01:26:17 am
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:36:18 am
The poor unicorns horn feels like its about to shatter, from the pain and magical energy going thru it. He can only hope that worked.
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 01:39:53 am
"Stop that, now! She needs to be seen by a doctor!"
Falcata musters all the magical might she can and lifts Friesden from the ground before bolting in the direction of the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 01:46:41 am
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:50:59 am
Lowering his head, he slames down his legs and runs at a speed that would make a pegusi proud.
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 01:58:20 am
"I am taking her to see Dr. Bubbles!"
She hears the pony give chase, but she throws all of her remaining energy into galloping herself. She didn't want to have to restrain him... She sees the hospital door just ahead and makes a break for it, barely keeping Friesden in her magical grip.
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 02:01:28 am
I smile and open the door to leave.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:08:25 am
With his horn glowing a rather sicking shade of greenish yellow, he prepared to blast the whole hallway with the magical flame. If there was such a creature near it, it would focuse on it and only it.
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 02:15:36 am
She swears under her breath and staggers back to her feet, all of her fur not covered by her barding singed and blackened. She turns back to Pokionic with a murderous glare.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:23:32 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 02:24:12 am
"Friesden? Bubbles! Please keep her safe!"
I step out into the hallway, looking for what or who was trying to harm Friesden and Falcata.
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 02:27:41 am
Post by: jaxler on December 24, 2011, 02:30:07 am
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:37:39 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 02:42:55 am
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:44:59 am
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 02:46:48 am
"You're not doing anything else to anypony. You could have killed somepony!"
She approaches Pokionic.
"Captain Isos will assess the final penalty, but two counts of assault... a minimum of forty days in jail."
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:50:06 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 02:55:56 am
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 03:09:27 am
That was the sound of a ponies lower jaw being forced back forty degrees into his upper jaw as it dislocates, all while hitting the ground head-first. Thank the scaly ancester for stronger bones and a good horn, or else I would be the one who needs to be put under a sleeping spell.
" Tell Otik that I was trying to calm her with a spell...before I was interupted by this mare, Bubbles.
She was showing signs of acute possesion and was speaking about a father figure. She must be put under by the spell I was casting earlier. Tell the most learned magi in the area to take the proper procautions. The Dragonic Spell of Spirit-Clensing can be found in a leather scroll under my bed, near the pile of crushed emeralds. Take them with you, for that powder assists in channeling the energy needed for attacking the parasite without doing mush harm to the host..."
Weakly, he muttered."At least... I...am near a...doc..ter..." Than his eyes rolled into the back of his head.
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 03:10:26 am
Even as Khenal comes into view, she appears more lucid.
"My head hurts. Why can't I remember where Khenal is? I see him how. Am I there? Who am I? I know my name, my father and mother loved me, and all is well with the world, but of me I know only my name. Who am I?"
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 03:16:26 am
"Khenal..."
She steps over to Pokionic and swears under her breath.
"Let's get him into the hospital..."
Her horn flickers with magic as she does precisely that, realizing at length that Khenal wouldn't be capable of doing so for days to come.
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 03:20:10 am
"Friesden? Are you alright?"
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 03:24:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 03:25:36 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 03:32:54 am
"Y-you're Friesden... aren't you?"
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 03:36:02 am
She would report Pokionic's assaults to Captain Isos and let her deal with whatever came of it. If she questioned how Pokionic dislocated his jaw, she'd take the blame for it. Khenal had been through enough, and she understood all too well how he felt. After an assault, Isos would probably drop it anyway.
Post by: Dsarker on December 24, 2011, 03:45:11 am
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 03:55:44 am
As I talk, I kneel and lay by Friesden's side.
"And... you're very important to me."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 24, 2011, 05:48:51 am
"Falcata, bring him over here. Then go rest. I can tell by the look on your face that your stomach is being painful. ALWAYS this pony, meddling in things he doesn't comprehend. Sending clopping FIREBALLS down my hospital hallway is just too much."
*Bubbles walks to the hospital loudspeaker*
"THIS IS DOCTOR BUBBLES. CODE RED! I REPEAT, CODE RED! WE HAVE A FIRE IN THE HOSPITAL HALLWAY! ALL FIREFIGHTING PONIES ASSEMBLE AND DOUSE THE FLAMES!"
Post by: DVNO on December 24, 2011, 12:27:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:34:06 pm
So, what do you guys think? Catch up the timeline, or does more stuff need to happen first?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 24, 2011, 12:37:10 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 12:46:28 pm
;D
Post by: DVNO on December 24, 2011, 12:50:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 12:56:33 pm
I remembered the third thing. Friesden's probation is over. After three months of no incidents, Isos simply can't justify the use of ponyhours watching her.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:01:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 01:07:32 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 24, 2011, 01:11:28 pm
KingStrongbeard Is the current RP before or after the zebra attack?
Khenal before
Khenal I think a week or two before
KingStrongbeard Really? Then Charity's journal entries are out of order, because I have the zebra attack as before the cultists as I dated the cultists as the day I sealed them up in the actual fortress.
Khenal I think it's before, anyhow. it feels like we've been in the same week for a month or two now
KingStrongbeard Yeah, a quick skip through my old posts shows that the seige was supposed to take place after the scene in which I interrupted to post it, but then that scene went on and then we just stayed within that week.
KingStrongbeard However, Impending has made mention of efim's death in battle, so I think it will take the least amount of massaging of the time line, if we assume that the siege took place before the start of the scene I interrupted to post it. So that it happened awhile ago. Opinions?
Khenal my head hurts :P
KingStrongbeard Indeed.
So to summarize, the problem is that the siege happens both before and after. Thus the solution is that happened first, then the cultists stuff and everything that happened around the same time. I assume there is no objections to this?))
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:16:02 pm
Quote
So to summarize, the problem is that the siege happens both before and after. Thus the solution is that happened first, then the cultists stuff and everything that happened around the same time. I assume there is no objections to this?))
I like this, so no objections here.
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 01:22:50 pm
That would also mean that Kris found her diary and now knows she's dying. Time to start working on that bit I suppose, I guess I'll have to massage the timeline myself and say the caravan hasn't left yet.))
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 01:25:58 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 24, 2011, 01:48:17 pm
If we do that, Falcata has been officially bumped up to captain of Charity's personal guard, has her new hammer, is now living across from the duchess, right?
That would also mean that Kris found her diary and now knows she's dying. Time to start working on that bit I suppose, I guess I'll have to massage the timeline myself and say the caravan hasn't left yet.))
First, yes that is correct. Falcata's promotion will be official for future RP.
Also, I think the caravan is still there anyway, at least I didn't notice it leave.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 01:51:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 01:58:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 24, 2011, 02:10:29 pm
And he'd best be glad that was magical fire that didn't really hurt her. She would be much less forgiving in that case. :) ))
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:12:57 pm
He should probably explaine himself to a whole group, but yeah, he owes almost everyone a apolagy.
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 02:14:22 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 02:16:32 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 24, 2011, 02:40:17 pm
I have just returned from having a drink with Khenal. It was nice being able to talk to him like a friend. We chatted and eventually the subject came to that demon he had in his head, the one that caused him to quit his position of Captain of the Guard. Turns out he got rid of it awhile ago, locked it inside the adamantine earring I gave Carrot. I asked him why then he didn't rejoin the guard. Obviously he couldn't just go back to being Captain, but he could serve under Isos. He said he didn't think that would work. The guard might look to him over Isos, since he was their captain first.
I admitted he had a point, but offered him a second choice. To work under Falcata in my new guard. And he took me up on the offer.I can't wait to tell
Charity's Secret Diary Opal 21st 99
I didn't write this in my journal as that isn't the place for it. But I suspect something may be up with Khenal and Friesden. I asked them how they were and while he insisted they were fine, his words didn't feel genuine. They're so cute together though. I hope it's nothing serious.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 03:01:19 pm
I got myself utterly smashed up a few weeks ago. I could have sworn I saw little Rocs flying around my head for the last few days. My jaw was utterly dislocated by a rather impressive specimen of a Royal stallion who I later learned was none other than Khenal, and my poor horn has been sore for days. Due to my relivly hermit-like life, the only ones who even talked to me was Isos, and she and I agreed a the month in jail. However, that little filly that started this whole mess is disterbing me. From my own personal experiances with Zebrakind, malevolent spirits tend to automaticly be hostile to others around it, and so far the worst that filly has done is speak foul words of evil and lost her identity.
.....thats still realy, realy bad. Probably worse than what the alternitve is.Not only was the filly unaffected by the spell I casted on her before, but the Spiritfyre did not foucus on the little pony. Unless the mare herself is evil, I have no idea on how to go farther. I belive I need to talk with both her caretaker and Khenal. The powerful royal has some sort of freindship with the mare, and I can only assume he can help me farther. If he wishes, he could prepare a way to end the poor mares...strangness once and for all.
Also this place... is terrible. The darkest of Zebrish shamens could conjure up a single spirit of evil, but this place is crawling with them. Its as if the entire place is a giant congragation of deamons and evil beings, waiting to pounce on those who are weak. Perhapes the Zebras are right, and adamantine is the remains of evil god-things that roamed eons ago. Neverless, I need to apologize to everyone I have effected negativly so far. However, a talk with Otik must come first, and then a chat with Khenal about whether or not his freind is utterly evil, possessed, or both.
"Scroll bursts into purple fire, is sent to a unkown hiding place"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 24, 2011, 03:05:40 pm
My jaw was utterly dislocated by a rather impressive specimen of a pegusi mare, and my poor horn has been sore for days.
((Khenal is neither a pegasus nor a mare. But is an alicorn (royal pony) stallion.))
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 03:07:03 pm
I need to stop obsessing, like Starkey said. But Friesden seems... slightly off. Almost like an actor ocasionally missing a cue for a moment. No, stop it! She's fine, she has to be. It's been a month since I burnt myself out, and I finally feel 100% again. The week of no magic had to have ended anything I might have been able to do to her. Even my construct would have been dispelled by this point. Anything already done will still have been done, but at least I can't harm her any further.
Anyway, today has been good, despite myself. I met Charity in the dining hall today and we talked like the old days. Eventually, we talked about my resignation and what caused it. Charity asked if I wanted back in the Guard, but I said no. I couldn't just treat Isos like a substitute to be replaced at any time. And I don't think it would work if I was just a normal Guardspony, either. I was captain to them, and I think they'd treat me like it, even if Isos retains the post. I couldn't do that to her.
Then Charity asked if I'd like to join her bodyguard. Falcata is the new Captain. Though she did work under me in the Guard, she's the only one there who has. I think it'll work out. If worse comes to worse, I'll just have to resign again, or she can fire me if she feels we can't work together.
Oh, I almost forgot. There is at least one positive sign that Friesden really is her own pony! One of the Guard, Heiro, asked if he could visit today; said he knew Friesden and wanted to be friends. It's wonderful! She's made a friend, on her own! I had no idea, so I can't have influenced it! Maybe she really is back!
****************************
Those paying attention may notice a huge numerical gap between this and Khenal's last journal entry. He's been making them, but I haven't been writing them.
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 03:13:00 pm
"Where did you get that quote from? I did not type that." :PMy jaw was utterly dislocated by a rather impressive specimen of a pegusi mare, and my poor horn has been sore for days.
((Khenal is neither a pegasus nor a mare. But is an alicorn (royal pony) stallion.))
(This is what happens when there are about ten different ponies running around, and one has not yet memorised there names!)
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 24, 2011, 04:20:00 pm
Well I finally did it...one month of watching over Friesden, and I just now got up the courage to talk to Khenal. He was walking back from the Dining hall when I came across him. Apparently he was taking some food back to Friesden so I asked if I could come along. He's a real nice pony but... I always get nervous around him. I wanted to ask about his relationship with Friesden but all I ended up doing was stuttering, stumbling on all of my questions, I don't think he understood what I was asking either. "I love her" he said... I understand that, but sometimes I wonder... their relationship never seems to be solid, and if I have a chance... but I can't just up and ask him! Oh Khenal, would you mind if I asked Friesden out? Yeah, great idea, then I get to spend the next month in the hospital. Still I care for her so... maybe at some point I'll get my chance. Untill that happens I guess that I'll just stay a friend, and guard. As long as she's happy...
Post by: The Master on December 24, 2011, 05:55:55 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 11:02:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 24, 2011, 11:05:18 pm
Post by: The Master on December 24, 2011, 11:10:43 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 24, 2011, 11:33:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 25, 2011, 03:06:02 am
And, oh, this is going to have some very interesting potential for interaction between Khenal and Falcata.))
Falcata's Diary - 21st Opal, 99
Lady Charity told me today that there's a new recruit for her personal bodyguard, but she didn't tell me any more than that. I'm not sure who it could be, as far as I know we're all hoof picked by her, so somepony must have done something brave or outstanding to get chosen. I haven't heard of anything of the sort recently, so I suppose I'll just have to wait and see who it is. I'm a bit nervous about this whole thing, I'm not used to leading ponies so much as taking orders, but maybe I'll be able to do half as good a job as Khenal did.
I just realized that I haven't really spoken with him for a few weeks. I really hope Friesden is doing better. Khenal gave me permission to read his journal, and although I was hesitant to do so at first I did. It took me a few days, but everything makes so much more sense now that I have. I feel absolutely terrible for him and Friesden. She's been through so much more than I could have ever imagined, and poor Khenal is so deeply in love with her that he's gone to the point of hurting himself to help her. I know all too well what sorts of things love will make you do, and I'd hate to see him have to suffer through what I have in its name. Perhaps it is worth it though, I don't regret everything I've done.
Speaking of that, I'm happy to report that Pokionic has mostly recovered from Khenal's outburst. Captain Isos didn't even bat an eye when I told her that he attacked me and I ended up dislocating his jaw. I'm definitely going to keep my eye on him though. He worries me a lot.
And I really need to speak with Kris and find out what's bothering her, as busy as I've been getting settled in our new home I haven't had much chance to talk with her lately. She's been avoiding me and hiding in her room a lot, though, which isn't like her. I think if she knew that I was dying, she would have said something by now, so it must be something else. Perhaps I should break the news to her then, I don't know.
((Think I'll post something tomorrow on Kris. Not sure how interactive it'll be for RP purposes, but I need to get Falcata not dying resolved. I'm already not really liking what I had thought up... I may have to work with this some to get the plot interesting enough...
Edit: Khenal had a better plan for this than I did, so Falcata doesn't know he's her new recruit. Hilarity will ensue.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 25, 2011, 10:18:37 am
Post by: The Master on December 25, 2011, 11:30:56 am
A crowd gathers around a stage in the courtyard of Glitterglen, on the stage is the mane cast: Kris, Falcata, Khenal, Friesden, Charity, Pokionic, Granite(?), Psycho Carrot(possessing a willing host), Starkey, Otik, Lilac, and Venture. They're all preparing for the Trans-dimensional play, which occurs every winter's solstice. The crowd quiets as Charity takes the center stage.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 25, 2011, 12:03:34 pm
The curtains opens to reveal a set made to look like the interior to a tiny poor home. A Pegasus, hidden by the wall drops fake snow behind the "window". At a table, near a fake fireplace, sits our star[s.].
((themaster asked me to set the scene so I made something up. I don't know who the star is, or even what the nature of the story [should anything come from this at all.] will be. Just run with it and make something up.))
Post by: The Master on December 25, 2011, 12:18:13 pm
"Uncle Read?" Asks Jennie.
Post by: Telgin on December 25, 2011, 02:03:58 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 25, 2011, 02:38:02 pm
"Hey girls, what can your uncle Jonnie help you with?"
Post by: The Master on December 25, 2011, 03:18:21 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 25, 2011, 03:19:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 12:38:21 am
"My....my parents...GONE? But...no! How could they leave me? They told me yesterday they loved me! Where...where did they go?"
Post by: Telgin on December 26, 2011, 01:08:31 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 01:45:51 am
Post by: Telgin on December 26, 2011, 01:52:27 am
Falcata stands a short distance back, watching Madush and Osal take turns plinking away at the archery targets across the room. Madush scores a finely placed shot on one of the targets.
"Nice shot, Madush!" Falcata calls to the pegasus. True to nature, he simply nods and continues firing at his target.
A few seconds later, Duchess Charity enters the barracks flanked by her husband, who goes off to do some individual practice. "Good evening Captain,” she says to Falcata as the two meet eyes.
Falcata lowers her head before the duchess. “Good evening, Lady Charity.” She returns to eye level and adds, “I understand you've chosen a new recruit for your bodyguard?”
The duchess nods. “Indeed, he's proven himself quite well in the past, and I trust him well enough. You've worked with him the past I think.”
Falcata ponders the statement for a moment. It would have to be somepony from the guard. There were more than a few brave ponies there, and she trusted them all well enough. “Oh? I've no doubt your confidence is well placed.”
During the exchange, Khenal has been waiting outside the barracks waiting for his cue, barely suppressing a few chuckles. At hearing Charity's signal, he composes himself and enters the barracks. Falcata looks over to Khenal and offers him a small smile and nod. “Good evening Khenal.”
Khenal bows to Charity. "Lady Charity." He turns to Falcata and snaps a crisp salute. “Captain!”
Falcata puzzles at the salute and looks between the two ponies. Wait a second... Her eyes go wide and her mouth hangs agape slightly. Khenal smiles.
The duchess repeats the smile. "Falcata, I would like to present your newest recruit, Khenal."
"Reporting for duty, Captain!"
Falcata stares dumbly for a second before composing herself. "Oh, Khenal! I-I didn't realize!" She returns the salute sloppily, feeling her heart skip a beat as he gives her a warm smile. She fails to suppress a small nervous grin in return.
"Well,” Charity begins, “I'm sure you have much to discuss, and I don't want be in the way, so I'll just be going now. Madush, I believe it's your shift now?”
"That's right milady.”
"Then let's go."
Falcata nods Madush off and bids the duchess farewell. Khenal bows to Charity and salutes Madush as they exit. "This... this was quite unexpected!" she says to Khenal, her smile growing to a grin.
Khenal raises an eyebrow. "Ma'am?"
Realizing her breach of protocol, Falcata's grin shrinks from a dumb grin to a nervous smile. “I... uh...” She looks away for a second. "It's an honor to work with you again Khenal. I know Lady Charity's trust was not misplaced."
Khenal maintains his collected smile. "The honor is mine, Captain Falcata. I look forward to working under you."
Falcata blushes slightly. Oh, sisters, this was going to awkward... She fidgets for a moment before inspecting Khenal's equipment. It looked like the same gear she remembered from when he was her captain. It would do well enough.
Khenal continues to wait, standing tall and proper. "Um... orders, ma'am?"
Osal, the world's unluckiest pony, fires off his last bolt. He turns to Falcata. "Captain, should I go to the ammo pile, or do you have other orders?"
Falcata looks over to him and says, “No, continue on. One more quiver of bolts."
"Yes sir!" Osal runs off to acquire another quiver of wooden bolts.
Falcata looks back to Khenal "We were performing some drills. Seems like the best place to start." She steps back toward the open sparring space and beckons Khenal to join her "Are you well enough for some sparring?"
"Yes Ma'am." Khenal follows Falcata to the sparring space, flipping his spear so nopony will get hurt. Falcata levitates her new hammer out to her side and turns to face Khenal.
Cryptson stops his drill and steps off to the side of the sparing arena. "This should be entertaining."
Falcata meets eyes with Khenal and turns her hammer to a striking angle. Khenal salutes Falcata, then drops into a defensive stance, waiting for her to make the first move. "Begin.” She swings her hammer low, trying to catch Khenal by the leg with the hook between the striking surface and hilt.
Khenal leaps over the blow, countering with a downward strike aimed at her withers. She sidesteps the thrust, which slides against the side of her barding. She circles and brings the pommel of her hammer up for a strike at any part of Khenal that presents itself.
He sees the strike coming, but can't move fast enough to keep the hammer from clipping his hoof. He holds the hoof off the ground as if it were an actual injury, meanwhile making several feints to try to get Falcata off balance .
She tries to parry a feint, throwing her hammer far out of line. Khenal attempts to take advantage of the successful feint, aiming a blow at the same leg Falcata got on him. She realizes her mistake a moment too late and tries to step out of the way. The blow misses the target hoof and jabs into another. She backs away instinctively and favors the hoof like Khenal.
Falcata brings her hammer up again and tries a feint of her own, faking a strike at Khenal's shoulder. At the same moment, he attempts to press the advantage, looking for any openings in Falcata's stance. Caught by surprise, he oversteps himself. Parrying the hammer has thrown him completely off balance and wide open. She takes advantage and tries to sweep his weapon out of his magical grasp altogether
Khenal is too distracted by trying to keep his hooves with only three available, and is efficiently disarmed. As the spear sails off in an arc, Khenal smiles and salutes Falcata again.
Falcata returns the salute. "Not bad. We could both use a little practice."
"Whew, thank you Captain. Do you want to go again?" Khenal says, levitating his spear back.
Falcata nods and takes up her stance again. "I think that would be a good idea. Why don't you lead off this time?"
Khenal takes his stance. "Ready when you are, Ma'am."
"Ready." She raises her weapon in a defensive stance.
The moment the words leave Falcata's mouth, Khenal darts forward with a thrust to her barrel. Falcata is surprised by the ferocity of his attack and fails in her attempt to sweep his spear aside. The blunt of the staff rams into her barding, and she backs away with a grunt to evaluate her options
Cryption smiles and nods approvingly. "That looked like a hit. Tied 1-1."
Khenal takes a defensive stance, slowly spinning his spear in mid-air and attempting to make his next strike unpredictable. Falcata circles him slowly, waiting for him to make the next move. She keeps her hammer close and ready.
His spear suddenly picks up speed as he aims a spinning strike at the side of Falcata's head. She ducks the swing and brings her hammer up at Khenal's jaw in turn, making certain to not swing it hard enough to harm if it lands.
He was expecting a block and to redirect the momentum of his spear, not a dodge. Acting on reflex, he rolls to the side, feeling the hammer just brush the fur of his jaw. As he comes out of the roll, a massive grin is plastered on his face. He was very much enjoying the match. He stands and tangles Falcata's hammer in his spear, hoping to use his size and strength to his advantage.
Falcata struggles against Khenal's strength. He was a head taller than her and stronger to match physically. Magically, he was leagues beyond her. She locks eyes with him and with a smile tries to step aside, but her magical strength buckles under his and she falters. He wasn't expecting her to give so easily and looses his balance, stumbling into her.
She looses a surprised grunt and falls with him, her weapon falling to ground and sliding far out of reach. Khenal's spear gets tangled in his legs and he topples over with Falcata, becoming a mass of legs, wings, and confused yelping.
"Whoop! Ack!" he cries, trying not to catch his spear on either of them. Falcata winds up beneath him, stunned and confused. She sees her weapon halfway across the barracks and chuckles to herself.
"Oof... I think... that round goes to you."
"Huff, if you say so, Ma'am."
As the two fighters tumble together, Duchess Charity has returned to the barracks. She looks down to the two in a very awkward position and raises an eyebrow. "What's going on in here?”
Khenal's eyes widen when he recognizes Charity's voice. Falcata blushes as her eyes snap open, and she looks up to lock eyes with Charity. "Oh... we were sparring. A bit of... an accident."
Khenal wiggles and tries to get out of the pileup, and Falcata does the same, fighting to get to her feet while panting from exertion. "Starkey always told me that was a bad maneuver, but never why,” he adds, sheepishly.
Charity looks over to her husband with a glower. "Cryptson, I didn't give you this room so you could watch this kind of stuff.”
He smiles in turn and says, "You misunderstand, they were just sparring and crashed.”
“Uh-huh. Sure."
"No honest!" Charity's magic grabs her husbands ear. "Oww, let me go.”
"You're coming home now, dear," she says, dragging him away by the extremity.
Khenal finally manages to disentangle himself and tries to help Falcata to her hooves, trying and failing to ignore Charity's suggestive comments. Falcata stands and looks at Khenal, her face slightly red and dripping with sweat.
Charity looks back to them as she exits and adds, "No need to stop on our account, we were just leaving.”
Khenal looks a bit flustered, but continues to help Falcata. "Thank you..." she trails off, accepting his help but avoiding his eyes. She continues to pant and wipe sweat from her brow, trying to catch her breath with difficulty. She shouldn't be this exhausted...
Khenal levitates Falcata's hammer over to her, then salutes again. She accepts the weapon and replaces it in her sling with a few more deep breaths. "Thank you... I'm out of practice,” she manages between breaths. “I think we should take a minute to catch our breath..."
He nods and takes the opportunity to catch his breath as well, returning his spear to a passive stance.
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 01:55:18 am
I've had a vision. It's clear to me now just what has to be done.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:36:58 am
Oceania is at war with Eastasia. Oceania has always been at war with Eastasia. Eurasia are our allies.
Would the following sections of the story please report to the memory hole?
Starkey, Otik, and Friesden having anything more than a platonic/familial relationship.
Anything from that day relating to any part of the above.
reply 26.12.11 retcon malreported rectify
The second day, all events referring to Friesden.
Oceania is at war with Eurasia. Oceania has always been at war with Eurasia. Eastasia are our allies.))
Post by: Pokon on December 26, 2011, 01:37:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 04:25:07 pm
She could only hope he would, at least.
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 04:36:27 pm
I slowly open my eyes and instinctively try to levitate a glass of water over to drink. When the beverage refuses to even consider budging, I recall being burnt out still. Sighing, I get up to get a drink.
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 04:40:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 04:43:23 pm
"...Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 04:44:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 04:47:39 pm
I try to give a reassuring smile before returning to the hospital bed.
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 04:49:15 pm
"A...well, a little different from when I last saw you." She smiles hollowly. "I'm sorry for what happened then. I...I didn't mean to scare you like that."
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 04:54:40 pm
I pause for a moment, unsure if I should continue.
"B-but why... did you say it?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 04:56:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:01:27 pm
"You said you feel different? How so?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:03:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:05:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:06:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:11:47 pm
'You love her, you need to trust her judgement. And you need to trust your friends. It'll be alright, just don't freak out.'
Eyes closed and breathing evenly, I answer.
"I promise I will not do anything about it unless specifically asked by you, Freisden."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:12:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:19:47 pm
My eyes snap open, cold with fury, as I realize what she's trying to say.
'You promised! Besides, ponies are already dealing with it!'
A few inarticulate sounds escape me as I try to smother my rage with the promise. After a few moments, I shake my head and get off the bed to pace.
"You said ponies are already dealing with it?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:23:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:26:27 pm
'She's the Captain of the Guard, this is her job, after all.'
Noticing Friesden shaking, I stop and try to reassure her.
"Well, I can't help but be angry at what they tried to do to you. But I'm not mad at you, Friesden. I don't think I ever could be."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:29:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:32:15 pm
"Again, not at you. I was mad with myself, and disappointed in myself. And afraid..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:33:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:38:39 pm
"Always, Friesden. More than anything, I will always love you."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:42:25 pm
"I...I love you, Khenal. Will you be mine forever?"
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:43:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:45:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 05:54:24 pm
'She can't be enthralled, you're burnt out.'
I smile at my love and slowly lean in to kiss her.
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 05:59:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:04:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:05:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:12:10 pm
"Are you sure this is what you want?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:13:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:20:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:21:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:27:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:29:00 pm
A look of horror comes over her face.
"Please....tell me it wasn't because of me. Tell me!"
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:32:33 pm
"I-I was so frightened... that I had done something to you..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:38:54 pm
Friesden embraces him once more.
"My love... I trust you. I know you'd do anything for me. Please...once you've recovered, never do this again. Please. I love you too much to want to see even a hair of your head be harmed."
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:44:14 pm
I lean into her embrace and begin to cry on her shoulder.
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:47:50 pm
"No, I'm sorry! I made a foalish mistake, and I caused all this pain! Please, forgive me!"
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 06:49:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 06:54:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 07:00:00 pm
"...Your parents?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 07:00:48 pm
Post by: The Master on December 26, 2011, 07:06:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 07:33:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 07:38:51 pm
I've never been so happy before. Sisters above. I've got parents who love me, a sister who enjoys me, and my true love Khenal loves me too. I don't know how I could get more happy.
I am so very happy. I wish this could last forever.
New Journal Entry 2
Khenal.
He went into my mind today.
I told him not to worry, but I still did. But he opened it. I was there, and he found me. He knows I'm free now.
I love him so. But he's gone back into the guard. I don't want him to. But now he has, the only thing I can do is put the skills that I learned from before I came to the fortress to keep ponies alive, to keep -him- alive when he gets hurt.
I worry about him so. Especially now he's working with Falcata. I've heard stories about her and Khenal. I trust him. He wouldn't do anything with her. Not willingly. But I still worry.
No. I trust him. And I trust her. The ponies in this fort are better than that. But I worry about her well being.
Maybe I should talk to Khenal. I've seen her, and she seems so unhappy.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 26, 2011, 07:40:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 07:42:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 07:55:57 pm
Friesden is herself! Oh Sisters, how sweet those words are to write and know they are true!
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 08:14:53 pm
Heiro walks up to Khenal, his demeanor much more serious than usual, and says "Khenal, there you are. come with me, we're gonna spar. Now" his tone that of a pony on a mission.
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 08:19:38 pm
I fail to notice Heiro until he challenges me to a sparring match.
"Huh? What? Why?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 08:22:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 08:23:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 08:28:54 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 08:31:12 pm
Heiro turns to Friesden
"Right now I'm your guard. pretty soon though captain Isos won't see the need to have you watched, and I want to make sure that you'll still be well protected."
Turning back to Khenal "I won't be taking no for an answer, either we go to the barracks or we'll do this here. Your choce."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 08:34:24 pm
"It's not the danger from me that you worry about...it's the danger to me, isn't it?"
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 08:36:36 pm
I sigh and stand, hoping Friesden can talk some sense into Heiro.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 08:40:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 08:41:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 09:39:57 pm
"The Arena. We won't interrupt anypony training and there's plenty of room. I think there's even some training weapons there."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 09:42:19 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 09:46:49 pm
Turning back to Khenal he says
"Fine lets go. no need to waste time." turning away he says over his shoulder "And just eat the darn cupcake. you need your strength, I won't hold back."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 09:49:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 09:51:04 pm
"What should I do? I don't think he's going to leave this alone..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 09:54:22 pm
Post by: The Master on December 26, 2011, 09:55:21 pm
"Hi big sis, what's up?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 09:56:57 pm
Post by: The Master on December 26, 2011, 09:59:07 pm
"Are you bothering my sister?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 10:03:42 pm
looking back at Friesden
"I accept your choice fully. He is the one you chose, and I won't take that away. But even still I have to be sure that you will be protected..." He pauses slightly seeming to have trouble finding the words "If anything were to happen... I promise neither of us will be hurt, but for my own sake I need to know."
"Kenal you know where I'll be. finish your meal then come. This will happen."
saying this he turns and heads for the arena.
Post by: Telgin on December 26, 2011, 10:04:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:05:53 pm
((Telgin, IRC would still work. It came up first in the Internet because it didn't require much bandwidth.))
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 10:09:55 pm
"What do you think, Lilac?"
Post by: The Master on December 26, 2011, 10:14:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 10:17:23 pm
"Then I guess I will. Think you can calm her down while I go see Heiro?"
Post by: The Master on December 26, 2011, 10:19:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 10:22:26 pm
"You're not using your head, son! That gap behind the blade is there for a reason!"
Starkey is sparring with one of the younger soldiers. He swings his wooden sword at the young buck, who - finally - manages to hook the blade behind the beard of his axe. With a twist of his neck, he snaps the blade in two.
"That's the way lad, excellent!"
He retrieves a new training sword from the rack.
"Now, again!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 10:24:38 pm
"You're Commander Starkey right? I'm going to be needing this space soon."
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:26:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 10:31:50 pm
He turns to face Hiero.
"I cleared my training schedule with Captain Isos a week ago, officer. I was to understand that the guard wouldn't begin their drills until noon. You'll have to wait a few hours yet."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 26, 2011, 10:33:18 pm
"Starkey, just listen to this. It's ridiculous I tell you."
Post by: Khenal on December 26, 2011, 10:34:22 pm
'He's going to be taking this seriously, so how should I handle it? I can't insult him by not giving my all as well, not to mention insulting Friesden by not giving everything.'
I shake my head and quicken my pace.
'Looks like we'll both be giving our all...'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 26, 2011, 10:36:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:37:16 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 10:40:50 pm
"Oh dear, I know that look. Some starry-eyed buck doesnae get th' message?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:48:25 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 26, 2011, 10:49:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:51:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 10:56:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 10:59:18 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 26, 2011, 11:00:14 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 11:09:32 pm
Otik chuckles.
"Bucks. Dunnae they realize chivalry died an age ago?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 11:10:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 11:19:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 11:21:02 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 11:31:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 11:31:53 pm
Post by: DVNO on December 26, 2011, 11:36:01 pm
"Hah, looks like Hiero has a death wish." Couth remarked. "oh, the stupid things we do for love."
"Maybe I should lend him a little boost? to kick a little sand in Khenal's arrogant face?" he pondered.
Post by: Impending Doom on December 26, 2011, 11:37:24 pm
Otik ponders for a moment. A smile crosses her face.
"In th' arena, I believe. Yer lads wouldnae happen t'be having their duel there, would they?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 26, 2011, 11:50:05 pm
Friesden hurries off to the arena.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 27, 2011, 10:59:54 am
Charity's Journal 26th Opal 99
I stopped in by my guard's barracks earlier to see how things were going. Unfortunatly, no one was there. But I found a note left by Falcata.
“Meet in the arena today colts. Madush, Osal, Bring combat bolts.”
Wondering what was up I headed down to the arena. I saw that Falcata was standing alone in the ring with a menagerie of caged critters, all set to be let loose with a single lever pull. She said to the others that she didn't expect to need help, but that if she did they were to use these beasties for target practice.
Bubbles was also on hand, just in case. It was he who pulled the lever.
Inside the cages was an elephant pony and three mandrills. Falcata lunged at one of the apes. She immediately crippled the ape, and then bashed it's head twice to end it. She then turned to another ape, hit it upside it's head, you could hear it's neck snap with the blow, then she caved it's skull in. The third and final ape started to run, but Falcata was faster and there was no place to hide in the arena. This one she broke the foot of for running and then gored it in the head with her horn.
The elephant pony however, wasn't as easy for Falcata to deal with. First she bucked and kicked it but could do nothing substantial. It tried to smash her but she rolled to her side, it could have hurt her when she was down but instead paniced and ran away again. She got up and with renewed passion, charged, the beast turned to flee and got struck in his guts by her hammer, the blow looked like it really hurt something inside. Falcata then stabbed the elephant pony with her horn and bite it's hide. The creature threw her off and she struck the retching thing several more times breaking a leg. The creature vomited on the floor and then Falcata smashed it's skull. Brains and blood mixed with vomit, and the whole room stank to the heavens, but I don't think she noticed, I've never seen Falcata smile quite like that before.
After chatting with Osal and Madush for a few minutes she left to go take a shower, leaving the mess for someponyelse to clean up.
Charity's Journal 14th Obsidian 99
The diplomat from the Rainbow's was spotted fleeing from a giant swarm of parasprites in the jungle. The Fortress Guard with help from Falcata's squad is fighting them off, trying to keep them away from him and from our surface crops.
((14th Obsidian, Falcata enter's a martial trance while hunting parasprites, then they all fly away and she gets no kills, before exiting the trance. Don't know if you want to do anything with that, but there you go.))
15th Obsidian, 99
A keishi pony, whom it seems thinks of himself as a Master Thief, fell into one of our animal cage traps. Starkey will be “interrogating” him in the arena soon I think.
Addendum: While the guard was busy dealing with the parasprite swarm, a group of diomedians was spotted by the river, torturing a poor little rabbit.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
The alarm bell sounded from the tower. The guard immediately dropped what it was doing, this was what everypony had trained for. Cryptson, the Fortress Guard, and Falcata's squad set up positions in the Trade Depot, just under the ground. They would be the final line of defense. Inside the wall readied Starkey's ponies. Each ready to do their best. Otik took her few marksponies to the wall, and the time to wait had begun.
While the Diomedians, mulled about just out of crossbow range, suddenly from the south, a caravan from the Rainbow Ponies was spotted. They didn't see the ambush. We feared that the diomedian's would attack the caravan, but instead they spent their time taking shots at a Raindeer Bull that got stuck on the surface, it was a pet of Itur from Otik's squad.
The injured animal limped behind the fortress walls. Not inside of them, but on the far side. The Diomedians were apparently bored of hurting the animal and made for our gates. Bolts flew, but most of our bowponies had spent all their ammunition, keeping the parasprites away from the farms, while the Diomedian's bided their time. When they made for our gates, Cornbread forgot his training and flew over our walls to do combat with the enemy hoof to hoof. He beat one Keishi into a bloody mess as he tranced against another foe. At this point the ground squad charged the enemy.
The enemy took heavy casualties from the charge and began to route. The only pony down on our side was Itur, who had followed Cornbread out, but been less successful in the melee.
The route though turned out to be only a tactical retreat the enemy turned back into our ponies and with surprise injured Shigos in the leg before falling to our brave colts. The only surviving enemy a Darkbolt with a mace, flew off toward the east.
With the enemy routed, the caravan made their way inside unmolested. But the militia shall remain vigilant.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
19th Obsidian 99
The ambush was dealt with but we have some injuries. Niether are all that bad, just a few broken legs between the two of them. Our doctors will have them walking around in no time.
With the militia still recovering from the first fight. The Isos volunteered her squad to escort the caravan from the capital inside. Fortunately they where not attacked.
22nd Obsidian 99
As if things weren't bad enough with everypony on edge expecting another attack Odur, that lazy good for nothing horsefly blacksmith has been possessed. ((Just my luck. This guy is always on break when I want him to do something, and when he finally moods, it's a possession.))
27th Obsidian 99
Odur has finished his project. He can't remember how he did it, but he's made a wonderfully strong Adamantine cage, with spikes of Adamantine lined with maghgony wood. It's a work of beauty. I wonder if it's strong enough to hold these demons we seem to constantly attract, such as Schomoe and Psycho Carrot.
Charity's Journal 28th Obsidian 100
Happy new year! And Happy new Century!
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 12:19:57 pm
Walking down the halls, he kept the look-out for the forts only royal pony, for there was much to be discussed.
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 01:59:57 pm
Heiro and I walk out into the arena, hefting our training weapons. I have a training spear and he has a training axe. Looking across the arena, I try to defuse the situation one last time.
"So, this is going to happen? We can't just talk?"
"Not this time." Is all Heiro says as he finishes examining the axe, looking ready to fight. I sigh and raise my spear.
"Alright, if you insist."
Taking the words as a signal, we both fall into defensive stances, each waiting for the other to make the first mistake. After a few moments, Heiro starts to slowly advance on me.
"You wont win without attacking." Heiro says around the axe handle.
"Hmm..." 'His stance is very good. I need to startle him out of it...'
I suddenly flare my wings and raise my spear, hoping to startle Heiro out of his form.
Heiro ducks lower into his stance preparing for a blow. I take the opportunity to maneuver around to Heiro's side, hoping to land a blow form an unexpected angle. However, Heiro is too fast and quickly sweeps his axe around, turning his whole body to keep me in front of him.
"You've got to be quicker."
I can't help but smirk and banter. "By twenty percent?" I follow by spreading my wings and taking to the sky. I said the arena had plenty of room, and I meant it.
Heiro, however, doesn't seem to be in the bantering mood. "I told you to take this seriously." With that Heiro steps back, settling in to fend of an aerial strike.
"Misdirection." I telekinetically jab with my spear from ground level while Heiro is watching the sky. Instead of moving to the side, Heiro jumps forward past the spear and brings his axe up again. "Good now I can actually test you."
I land with Heiro between myself and my spear, flanking the pony. My horn flashes as the spear dances, forcing Heiro to deal with attacks form both sides. He quickly turns, putting me and my spear on his sides instead of in front and behind. He blocks and dodges strikes from spear and hoof, before quickly rolling away.
I quirk an eyebrow, impressed at his speed and skill. "You are much faster than I thought you would be." I punctuate my compliment with another slash, aimed at his forelegs.
"Thanks for that." Heiro stomps down on the spear haft to pin it to the ground.
'Well, I promised I'd give it my all...' My horn flashes as I send my scouting spell to get a feel for Heiro's mindscape. I release my hold on the spear as the spell reports back, and try to keep distance between myself and Heiro.
'Two points of interest, one active right now. Those should be his Self and his Mind. Here's hoping I've got this spell right...'
"You don't drop your weapon for no reason..." Heiro seems curious "What are you up to..."
My horn flashes again, sending a seeker construct with one mission: Slack Jaw. I can feel the spell hit it's mark, but Heiro keeps his grip on his weapon. Confused, I send another seeker with the same mission, hoping Heiro hasn't figured out what's happening.
'Maybe it hit his Self? A simple hit to the jaw wouldn't do much to that. Better try the other...'
It's Heiro's turn to smirk. "Heh, you can't beat her up that easily Khenal. Fight me straight!"
Looking panicked, I send a third spell at Heiro. Moments later, my horn flares as I suddenly reassert my grip on the spear. The same spear that Heiro is standing on. It jerks upward quickly, sending Heiro over backwards. As soon as Heiro's hooves leave the ground he spins his body landing on his hooves. "That's what I'm talking about, fight!" Quickly turning, he charges full speed at Khenal preparing for a strike.
My horn glows as I hurry to bring my spear to bear against the charge. I get the spear just in time, blocking the charge and sliding back a few feet from the impact. The weapons lock, and the eyes of the combatants meet. Heiro grins, remembering the lesson Starkey was teaching when he entered. He twists his axe, snapping the spear in two. "Now then what do you do?"
I take to the air again, smiling at Heiro. "Misdirection. Where's the third spell?"
Heiro's forelegs suddenly start feeling numb, not wanting to take his weight. "Dangit, Heiro!" Heiro's eyes flicker, and his demeanor returns to its normal state. "Wow you are good, I've never seen anypony beat her before. I think you win... can you let me up now?"
"Almost. Commander Starkey always taught me..." My horn glows as I take the axe and gently tap Heiro on the forehead. "...make sure the fight is over before letting your guard down."
I smile warmly at Heiro "You are very good, my friend."
Heiro bounces to his feet. "Nah the fight was already over, Midnight said so. You really think I fight well?" He seems back to his normal exitable self at least.
"You do: in your head and on the field. Do you think I can protect Friesden now?"
"Definitely. Hmmm, Big sis agrees too. You better take care of her though. I can still be friends though, right?"
"Heh, you don't need my permission to be her friend. Like she said, she's her own pony and can make her own choices."
"What about us?"
"Of course we are friends, if you want to be?"
"Defenitly! You could teach us a lot of fighting stuff! You aren't mad at us though right?"
"I'm a bit annoyed that you thought this was the best way to go about it, but everything seems to have come out alright. Though, if you want lessons, Commander Starkey is your stallion."
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 03:02:02 pm
Falcata's Diary - 24th Opal, 99
Something happened today that I'd have never expected in a hundred years. Lady Charity showed me who my new recruit was today: Khenal! I thought I was going to fall out in the floor when he saluted me and called me captain. It felt so wrong on so many levels, but I tried to keep my composure. Didn't do a good job of it, I know I was grinning like a foal half the time. Just the thought of working with Khenal again was enough to raise my spirits, but I don't really feel comfortable working over him.
I really don't want to let him down. He was an excellent captain to me, and I'll never be that good. He's a nice pony though, maybe he'll go easy on me. At least he's professional about it, and he never let on that I was slipping up.
As if grinning and stumbling over myself wasn't embarrassing enough, we had a nice spar so I could get a feel for how much he still remembered about fighting. He's excellent with his spear, which I had no doubt of. That ended up with the two of us in the most awkward position imaginable when Lady Charity showed back up in the barracks. I dearly hope she was joking when she alluded to the idea that we were doing something more than just sparring, and Lord Cryptson saw it all and knows we were just sparring. Oh, sisters, if that rumor got around the fort, I'd never be able to look anypony in the eye here again.
26th Opal, 99
I decided today to test myself out against a few of our caged prisoners. After my spar with Khenal a few days ago, I was absolutely exhausted, where he was barely winded. He's a good bit larger than I am, and a strong stallion to boot, but I don't think I should have been that much worse off. I brought Madush and Osal along with me to get a little target practice on live targets. Shooting at the practice range doesn't compare.
I ended up doing about as well as I could have expected, taking out the prisoners without taking much more than a scratch here or there. I forgot just how much fun it could be, and I think I got a little carried away. I saw the duchess come by just as I was finishing things up, and when she caught sight of my expression she just smiled and chuckled to herself. I hope she doesn't think I'm crazy now or something, it was just an amazing release of stress.
After the fight was over though, it was the same as with Khenal. I was so tired I could barely keep my footing, and I never thought I'd be able to catch my breath. It was all I could do to tell Madush and Osal to get in some practice and find somepony to clean up the mess I'd left behind. I know if I'd tried I'd have probably ended up just adding to the vomit piles, if I didn't pass out altogether.
14th Obsidian, 99
I haven't seen parasprites in quite some time. I also forgot just how annoying they could be. A rainbow pony diplomat was found fleeing from a swarm of the things today, and the fortress guard was sent to deal with them. I brought along the stallions under my command to help them out, since I knew it would be almost impossible to run the things down with just the guard. That's when it happened.
When I was surrounded by the parasprites, I felt the world change around me. A sort of primal rage filled me, a rage I haven't felt since two years ago in Coupledye, but I knew it was the same. Time slowed as I swung at any parasprite that got too close, but even still I never managed to strike any. It didn't seem to matter, after what must have been a horrifying display they fled into the woods, leaving the diplomat and most of the ponies around me slack jawed. I tried to brush it off, and led my stallions and the diplomat back to the fortress.
Just like before, I never thought I was going to catch my breath. I nearly blacked out after the rage left me. I fear it's related to my deteriorating condition, I should see Dr. Bubbles about it soon. If he thinks the end is getting close, I'll have no choice but to tell Kris. I feel like such a horrible mother, I still haven't worked up the courage to tell her, especially when she seems so depressed all the time.
19th Obsidian, 99
Another season, another diomedian ambush. I'm thankful that there were no fatalities this time, and only a few moderate injuries. I'm secretly also thankful that we were stationed away from the conflict as a last line of defense. I hate to not add our fighting strength to the battle, but I'd have only dragged us down and possibly gotten somepony else hurt or killed.
I've been having trouble breathing lately, and as a result I haven't gotten much sleep in the past few nights. I keep waking up, feeling like I'm choking, and standing up is the only thing that helps. Last night I had to sleep standing up, which did help, but even still it's pretty terrifying. I spoke with Dr. Bubbles about it this morning, and after one look at my gums and some prodding of my sides he knew what it was.
My condition is getting worse. Much worse. Dr. Bubbles believes I'm bleeding internally from the rot, and I'm becoming anemic. That coupled with a little fluid collecting around my lungs is making it hard to breathe. It's only going to get worse, and at best I have a few weeks to live. Probably less.
I don't think I can keep going on like this much longer. It's not fair to the ponies under me in the royal guard. I'm not fit to be their captain anymore. I can't lead any sparring or demonstrations like this, and I can't put them off on just my account. If I see the duchess tomorrow, I think I'll let her know I've gone as far as I can. Khenal would make an excellent replacement for me, but Madush has seniority over him in the royal guard. Osal doesn't want the job, I know. I'll leave it up to Lady Charity on what to do there.
It's also not fair to Kris. She deserves to know that I'm going to die soon, and I won't be with her much longer. I already feel so guilty for leaving her so little notice. I have to tell her tomorrow. I have no choice. I need to spend the little time I have left figuring out what to do with her once I'm gone. Lady Charity offered a pension for her, I hope that option is still open. Else I may have to send her off back to Coupledye to live with my brother or sister. As much as I fear her living here without me, I fear sending her back through the wilds, even under escort, as much. I don't know what to do.
((Another planned short diary entry, another chapter from a novel. And that's that, it's time to get Falcata living resolved. I think I've stretched her lingering on long enough. I just hope the little stuff I've planned with Dsarker, Khenal and The Master pans out before she bumps into the duchess. Not sure if Charity would just hand the position back to her if she resigned and got better.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 03:34:28 pm
(This entry has several tear stains on it)
Please, Sisters, let the rumours I've heard be false. I've finally reached happiness. Don't let it be taken away from me. I'm not sure how I'll go on if they're true.
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 05:40:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 05:41:05 pm
She flew into the arena.
"Khenal...." she said, disappointment in her eyes.
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 05:44:56 pm
Sheepishly, I turn to face Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 05:49:53 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 05:53:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 05:56:46 pm
"Khenal, it was wrong of you to fight him. What he said were just words. They matter not a jot."
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 06:03:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:04:54 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 06:09:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:11:12 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 06:13:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:17:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 06:20:11 pm
I deflate a bit, trying not to yell in my passion.
"I love you so much, Friesden, and I hate to make you scared like this. I promise I won't duel again."
I lean down to embrace her, to reassure her, to reassure myself that she's alright.
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:26:14 pm
"I know you won't. My love...I still love you above all."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 06:38:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:41:19 pm
"No! I...I just don't want anypony to get hurt. Especially... especially over me."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 06:43:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:45:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 06:47:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:48:23 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 06:50:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 06:54:31 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 06:56:26 pm
"I'm- I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Khenal! I'm sorry, Heiro!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 06:59:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 07:01:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 07:04:05 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 07:06:03 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 07:07:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 07:08:31 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 07:33:20 pm
This was going to be a whole lot worse than what he expected. A whole lot worse.
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 07:40:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 08:14:47 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 27, 2011, 08:16:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 08:18:17 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 08:20:05 pm
Kris sat silently in her room, trying to decide what to do. Her pillow would normally be damp by now, as it had been the past dozen times she started thinking about her mom, but she had apparently cried herself out about it. Maybe she was coming to accept it. Her pillow only had a few spots from her tears this time.
She sat up and hopped down from the bed. She stepped over to the cabinet and sifted through it until she found the small cloth bag she was looking for. Inside, she counted twenty bits: all of the money she had to her name, saved up over the two years she had been here. If nopony here in Glitterglen could or would do anything for her mom, then it was up to her to do something.
She took the bag and placed it in the saddlebag on her side. There was a caravan outside, she had heard, and maybe somepony there could help her. Would it cost more than twenty bits? She'd trade everything she had to help her mom.
She hesitated at the doorway. Maybe.... maybe she should go talk to Mr. Khenal instead. Her mom seemed to think he was the best mage in Glitterglen, and he was really nice. He would help, she knew. But, her mom told her not to bother him, and if she told him what was wrong, he'd tell her mom. Maybe... maybe she could get him to teach her some magic. She learned how to do the pain control spell pretty easily. Based on the nasty things her mom had written on the scroll, it must have taken her a long time to figure it out. Maybe Mr. Khenal could teach her something, she didn't have to tell him why she wanted to learn. Maybe she could figure the rest out.
A frown drifted onto her face as she shut the door and headed for the entrance. Maybe she would run into Lilac. She really, really felt like she needed to talk to somepony, but her mom obviously didn't want to talk about it. Why... why had she lied to her?
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 08:24:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 08:26:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 08:46:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 08:47:42 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 09:27:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 10:15:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 10:22:45 pm
Post by: The Master on December 27, 2011, 11:28:28 pm
"There you are Kris! I was looking all over for you!"
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 11:30:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 11:31:43 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 11:32:46 pm
"Huh? What?"
Post by: The Master on December 27, 2011, 11:36:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 11:36:42 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 11:38:38 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 11:39:47 pm
"No!" She gets up and latches onto Lilac. "Oh, Lilac! You were right! Those months ago in the hospital! You were right! My mom... she..." Tears begin to form in her eyes again, despite all the crying she's done already. "She is dying!"
Post by: The Master on December 27, 2011, 11:41:13 pm
"It'll be alright, trust me..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 11:41:52 pm
With a sad smile on her face, she says "Duty before pleasure, I guess."
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 11:45:24 pm
"I... I don't know what to do! She wrote in her diary that Dr. Bubbles can't help her! Nopony here is trying to help her..."
She motions to her saddlebag. "I've got all of my money with me. I... was going down to the caravan to see if anypony there could help her. If not... I thought maybe Mr. Khenal could. She wrote that he doesn't know. He's a powerful mage... but if I tell him, he'll tell her, and she doesn't know I know, and..." she says, twisting her words together hysterically.
Post by: The Master on December 27, 2011, 11:48:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 27, 2011, 11:48:45 pm
I give Friesden a quick nuzzle before standing to address the new pony.
"Have you talked to the Guard?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 27, 2011, 11:51:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 27, 2011, 11:53:03 pm
Post by: Pokon on December 27, 2011, 11:55:06 pm
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 12:02:04 am
Lilac heads off to find Khenal.
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:03:25 am
I sigh, turning to this strange unicorn.
"I guess that'd be me then. I am Khenal, what's your name?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:08:41 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:08:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:10:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:12:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:14:26 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:19:10 am
I quirk an eyebrow at Pokonic, then lower my voice so only he can hear.
"She is my love, and I'll thank you to stay out of my head, Pokonic."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:21:07 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:23:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:26:48 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:27:07 am
"Please, just Khenal. We should be able to talk in my carpentry shop, unless you have a better place to talk?"
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:29:23 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:29:54 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:32:25 am
"So... how long have you been in Glitterglen, Pokonic?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:33:14 am
"Something...there's something I'm not sure I want to know," she whispers as the smile fades away.
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 12:34:01 am
She looked at all of the ponies hauling things around to temporary shops and tried to figure out where to begin. What exactly was she even looking for? A doctor? Would there even be one here? These all just looked like ponies selling stuff.
She walked past a strange looking pony with a tentacle draping from her head instead of a horn like hers. The sight sent a chill down her spine as she rememberd that day in the woods with Lilac. The tentacle pony didn't seem to be interested in her, but she scuttled along anyway, there wasn't a lot of time to be wasting.
Finally, among the stalls she saw something that caught her eye. Not a doctor, but a unicorn like her with stacks of books. She even saw the twisting serpentine pattern that seemed to decorate so many medical books she'd seen in the hospital. Maybe this would be what she was looking for! She hurried over to the stall with a small grin edging onto her face and started taking a look at the books. There were even some books on magic. Even healing magic! Her spirits began to rise as her eyes darted from one to the next. Which should she get? Where should she start? Could she afford them?
"Can I help you, miss?" the unicorn stallion asked her, noticing her sifting through the stacks.
"Oh, I, uh... I was looking for some books on healing magic."
The unicorn nodded and stepped over to her, pointing out a few with his hoof. "What were you looking for in particular? Basics? Surgical techniques?" He raised an eyebrow and looked down at her. "Wait a moment, who is this for?" That hadn't even crossed her mind. Should she tell him she wanted it, or somepony else? The unicorn smiled and knelt beside her. "I hope you aren't planning on trying this stuff youself. You're just a little filly, this is grown up stuff."
"B-but... it's..."
He noded again and leaned in close. "I know, you're interested. But this is dangerous stuff. Even if you have the best of intentions, you could really hurt somepony or even kill them with this kind of magic, if you don't know what you're doing."
She looked away. Oh, she hadn't thought about that either... if she hurt her mom more instead of helping her... But nopony else was going to help her. She had to try. "It's for Dr. Bubbles," she lied.
The unicorn stood and thought for a moment. "Oh, alright. The books are seventy bits apiece. How much did he send up?"
Her face darkened. She didn't have nearly enough... "I... don't have that much..." She reared up on him and pleaded, "B-but I'll trade something! I have a really nice scarf back home, let me run get it..."
He restrained her and shook his head. "No, no... I thought you were getting it for yourself." He smiled. "It's too dangerous, I'm sorry. If you bring Dr. Bubbles up, then I'd be happy to talk with him about it though."
"Oh... okay..."
Kris turned away and slowly plodded back toward the entrance. She clearly couldn't do that. She didn't have enough money, and nopony would sell it to her even if she did. And they were right... she didn't want to hurt her mom more. Her lip trembled, but there were no tears left to cry. She dearly hoped Lilac was having more success than her.
"I'm sorry, mom..."
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 12:34:10 am
"There...you...are...Khenal...I..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:36:35 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 12:36:59 am
"Hello. I'm looking for any medical books that have anything to do with rot treatment. Magic, pills, tablets, anything!"
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:37:20 am
I have a question for you, too, for it relates to the subject at hand: were there any other Royals in your family, Khenal?"
And then another pony runs near the pair.
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:39:03 am
Her voice drops to the slightest whisper. "Promise me you won't tell anypony, please?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:42:45 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:43:29 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 12:44:01 am
He ponders the statement for a moment and raises a hoof to his chin. "That's a pretty unusual request." He pulls out a fairly large hardback tome and says, "This is the only one I have that might be related. It's a book with some techniques on curing serious diseases and infections. Mostly spells though."
((Dr. Bubbles is an earth pony, right?))
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 12:44:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:44:57 am
Her voice drops into the whisper again.
"I think he's been walking out with Falcata..."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 12:48:00 am
"This will be perfect. How much will it cost?"
((Yep, but I have something planned.))
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:48:25 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:49:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:50:26 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:50:46 am
"What about Captain Falcata? Do you know something about her, Pokonic?"
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 12:52:42 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 12:53:31 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 12:54:11 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 12:54:51 am
"Here's eighty. Keep the change."
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 12:55:29 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 12:56:01 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 12:56:28 am
*Bubbles walks back into the fortress, looking for Khenal.*
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 12:56:39 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 12:58:41 am
"Kheeeenalll? Where are you?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 12:59:02 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:00:24 am
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 01:04:43 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 01:04:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:06:12 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:06:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 01:08:47 am
"Hello? Khenal! I found this book... It may have to answer to saving Falca..."
*Bubbles stops talking, filled with outrage.*
"You!" he says, pointing a hoof at Pokionic
((Modkilled. Hurrah!))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 01:09:32 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:09:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:11:12 am
Friesden leads him back to the arena, conveniently coming via the hospital.
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:12:53 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 01:22:41 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 01:29:02 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:30:32 am
I turn towards the main stair well.
"Then lets get moving!"
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 01:33:18 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 01:35:00 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 01:36:57 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:37:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:38:30 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:40:53 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:42:16 am
"Don't worry, Kris. I promise we'll do everything we can to help Capt... your Mom get better."
Hearing Heiro and Friesden, I stand.
"Friesden! Falcata is in trouble and needs your help!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:43:27 am
"I need to ask you something first, Khenal."
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 01:44:04 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:44:49 am
Looking closer, he notes "Well, she seems to be rather fine to me," as he charges up his horn with purple energy.
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:48:02 am
"What do you need to ask, Friesden?
Bubbles looks at Pokonic and shrugs. "Maybe when we get there. I want to get another good look at her before anything is cast on her."
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:49:39 am
She breathes in again. "Are you...are you stepping out with Falcata?"
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:51:19 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 01:54:52 am
"No. You are the only mare for me, Friesden. I would never do something like that to you, I swear it."
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 01:57:43 am
Tears aain forming from her eyes, she runs to Khenal and tackle hugs him.
"I'm sorry Khenal, for ever doubting you! Please, forgive me!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 01:59:17 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 01:59:33 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:03:34 am
"I said I would forgive you anything, Friesden, and I meant it."
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:05:08 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:07:40 am
Hearing what the mare says, he adds "Well, at least the mare knows whats the main issue at hand."
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:15:02 am
We've had a bit of an upset, and nothing that happens as of this post up until the one I linked actually happened. PLEASE GO READ THAT POST. AND THE PM YOU HAVE / WILL BE GETTING.
Spoiler: RETCON (click to show/hide)
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:16:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:17:05 am
Even the unicorn stallion knew how worthless she was...how could she be hiding it from Khenal so? How could he love her so?
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:17:30 am
"Um, Falcata?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:18:18 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:19:42 am
"Oh... Khenal... I..." she begins weakly, blinking the sleep from her eyes and trying to clear her mind.
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:21:46 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:23:20 am
The magic of Pokonic suddenly flys past me and envelopes Falcata.
"What the buck?!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:24:31 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:26:12 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:26:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:27:03 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:27:53 am
"You will sit the buck down and let the ponies with actual bucking medical training decide what to do."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:28:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:30:20 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:32:26 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:32:32 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:34:28 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:35:58 am
"Friesden? Are you alright?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:36:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:37:38 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 02:38:21 am
Bubbles turns and glares at Pokonic
"You. Will. Stop. BUCKING. Trying. To. Kill. My. FRIENDS!"
Bubbles turns back to Falcata and turns the book to the page that says how to deal with rot.
((Ninja'd. Twice. Thrice. FOUR TIMES!))
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:39:04 am
Falcata performs a few wet coughs, still resting her head in her hoof. The faintest traces of blood can be seen in her mouth, agape as she continues to pant.
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:42:10 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:42:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:44:50 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:45:19 am
"Friesden? Are you alright? Please, say something."
I shakily reach out a forehoof to touch her, trying to reassure her that there's no danger to her here.
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:46:47 am
"Ahhhh!" she screams in pain as she rolls over one of her wings.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 02:46:58 am
"You think I don't know that? I know just as well as you do what the spell will do to her. You said it yourself. She's liquid on the inside. You think I wouldn't have found that out after tending to her for a whole BUCKING YEAR? YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU, CASTING MAGIC WITHOUT ANY POINT TO IT! HER STOMACH IS ROTTEN, IN CASE YOU HAVEN'T NOTICED!"
Bubbles calms himself and turns to Falcata.
"Falcata, do you trust me?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:48:57 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 02:49:44 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:50:25 am
My horn flashes as I levitate her gently out of Heiro's grip, hoping she isn't hurt.
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:52:31 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 02:52:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:54:14 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:54:48 am
"What... what do I do, Friesden?"
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 02:55:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:56:11 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 02:57:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 02:59:50 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 03:01:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 03:05:40 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 03:06:52 am
My horn flares as I telekinetically grab Dr. Bubbles away from Pokonic and bring him over to Friesden and myself.
"Wing! Broken! Fix! Gimme that book, I'll help Falcata! Just save Freisden!"
I roughly drop Bubbles as I grab the book, then ever so gently set down Friesden so Bubbles can get to work.
'He's an expert, she'll be fine!'
Looking very much like a madpony, I walk over to Falcata, brandishing the book of medicinal magic. Pokonic mentions something about fire and souls, that sounds bad.
"No! No fires or souls or whatever that is! No spells unless Bubbles says so, he's a doctor!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 03:08:43 am
Bubbles gets dragged over the Khenal and Friesden.
"Khenal, a broken wing isn't serious. I can fix it in under an hour. Right now we both have to help Falcata. It's the only way."
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 03:10:38 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 03:13:07 am
Post by: Pokon on December 28, 2011, 03:13:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 03:29:45 am
Post by: The Master on December 28, 2011, 03:34:18 am
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 03:43:39 am
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 05:03:25 am
The RPing has undergone a nontrivial change starting at this point. Everyone will be getting a PM sometime tomorrow outlining what we discussed. Basically, we've got enough players now that we can't just let everyone run around and wrestle with the plot unchecked. Before we did quite well on the honors system, but it's getting increasingly difficult to do so.
The last scene that we were running has been rewound up to the point where everybody met up at the stairs and were planning on finding Falcata. Kris and Lilac have already showed up, and everypony knows Falcata is in the barracks. Using the new rules system, here is the scene description (this is highly experimental):
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:08:12 pm
Even the unicorn stallion knew how worthless she was...how could she be hiding it from Khenal so? How could he love her so?
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:11:50 pm
As everypony arrives at the barracks, they find her standing there asleep, taking deep, calculated breaths. Her armor hangs loosely from her thin body, and every few seconds she snaps her head up, shakes it around in frustration and immediately slips back to sleep with a low moan, failing to notice anypony has arrived.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:12:49 pm
"Falcata, wake up."
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:15:42 pm
"Huh? What?" She notices Dr. Bubbles and blinks a few times. "Doctor? What's..." Her sentence trails off as she notices everypony standing behind Bubbles, and she takes a nervous step backward. "What's... wrong? Has something happened?"
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:16:48 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:17:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:20:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:21:10 pm
She huddled in the corner. Maybe she wouldn't get in anypony's way this way.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:21:29 pm
Bubbles' voice becomes very soft.
"Falcata, do you trust me?"
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:23:02 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:24:47 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:26:03 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:26:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:27:40 pm
Everypony there was important. Except for her, whispered the voice in her head. It was true. She just seemed to be the...the third wheel to everypony's happiness. She stood up, tall, and spoke.
"I'll do it."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:29:20 pm
"Are you sure Miss. Friesden? Once the operation begins, we can't turn back."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 11:30:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:30:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:31:44 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:32:24 pm
Bubbles trails off.
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:32:49 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 11:33:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:34:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:34:32 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:35:39 pm
Bubbles notices that Falcata has fallen asleep again, and shakes her awake.
"Khenal, you can't do it. Please, listen to me here. You HAVE to help with the magical part of the operation."
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:36:22 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:37:15 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:38:10 pm
"It's okay, Falcata."
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:38:49 pm
I look at Friesden in horror.
"Is there no other way?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:40:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:42:36 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 11:42:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:43:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:44:55 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:46:14 pm
"Now, Kris. I'm going to save your mother. I'm going to cure her. But I need your help. Only with your help can we cure your mother. Will you help me?"
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:46:51 pm
"I love you too, Friesden. You won't be alone, I promise."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 28, 2011, 11:47:00 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:50:08 pm
Falcata locks eyes with her for a moment before she looks away in shame.
"Wh-what can I do?" Kris asks.
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:50:36 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:52:26 pm
Bubbles addresses everypony
"We will be performing the ...cure... at the hospital. If you all would follow me?"
Post by: Khenal on December 28, 2011, 11:56:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 28, 2011, 11:57:32 pm
Falcata sighs and tries in vain to levitate the rest of her barding off. "Could... somepony... help get... this off?" she manages between drawn out breaths.
Post by: Dsarker on December 28, 2011, 11:58:16 pm
This isn't something she wants to do, but she has to.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 28, 2011, 11:58:36 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 12:02:13 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:03:50 am
"Okay..." Kris agrees, following the grown ups.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:04:43 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:08:11 am
Due to more budgeting cuts, I have been fired. Telgin is your new narrator.
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 12:09:24 am
As magic crackles around his horn, he says "Falcata, please think calm thoughts and relax your body. When you are struck by is, stay still, for gods sake
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:14:49 am
As they she arrived at the hospital, she saw Khenal and Friesden standing near a surgical table. One look at both of their expressions set her even more on edge. She was so scared...
The fear amplified yet again a moment later as Bubbles arrived with her mom. Now it was mixed with a gnawing expectation... what was going to happen now?
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:15:20 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:16:17 am
"Kris, I will make sure you don't see what happens. Just don't try and look, OK? Make sure you mom and Friesden stay calm."
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:18:43 am
'But I don't think I'll be able to forgive myself...'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 12:18:54 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:19:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:20:09 am
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 12:22:24 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:22:54 am
"POKOOOON! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:23:54 am
Kris nods, and takes another look at Friesden before turning to her mom. "Okay."
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:24:15 am
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 12:25:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:26:25 am
"Please...forgive yourself. Please. I don't care how much it hurts...just as long as you're happy, I'll endure. But every time you can't forgive yourself, it hurts just that much more. Please. Just forgive yourself. It'll be easier for me."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:27:19 am
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 12:28:37 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:32:44 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:34:14 am
"Khenal, please strap her into the traction bench, and give her anesthesia."
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:35:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:35:20 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:36:27 am
"A..are you sure? You would have to go through all the pain of it."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 12:37:16 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:39:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:40:05 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:41:12 am
Bubbles carefully takes a scalpel from the wall.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:41:23 am
"I love you Friesden. Be careful."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:42:46 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:43:26 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:44:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:46:07 am
"Okay...Okay...I need something hard. To bite on."
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:47:27 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:48:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:50:43 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 12:50:51 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:51:35 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:51:42 am
"L-Like this?"
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 12:52:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:53:16 am
She clamps down hard on the block of wood.
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 12:54:12 am
Bubbles carefully pushes the intestines aside and cuts out a small piece of the stomach.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 12:57:39 am
I begin softly chanting into Friesden's ear.
"I love you, please be alright."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 12:59:57 am
Once the cutting stops, she spits the piece of wood out. There are clear teeth indentations now on it.
"ARGHHHHH! Oh SISTERS it HURTS! Damn...it....damn...it...DAMN IT!"
Tears of pain form in her eyes.
"Okay...okay....now...now you'll need to suture it shut...oh. SISTERS ABOVE!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 01:00:57 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 01:02:17 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:03:13 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 01:04:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:05:30 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 01:06:19 am
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 01:06:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:07:34 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 01:08:08 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 01:08:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:10:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:12:47 am
Post by: Pokon on December 29, 2011, 01:13:17 am
dreamytimemakehercalmdoSOMETHING!"
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 01:14:24 am
Friesden immediately feels the pain in her body vanish, replaced with only a faint, lingering tingle.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 01:15:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:16:09 am
"Oh, Sisters above...I...I was too weak...I'm...I'm sorry, Khenal! I...I couldn't do it!" She begins to cry.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 01:23:26 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 01:24:24 am
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 01:24:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:26:17 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 01:29:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:30:57 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 01:40:36 am
"Khenal. I need you to enlarge this to about half the size of a regular stomach, please."
((NOW TELGIN! DO WHAT WE PLANNED!))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 01:42:08 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 01:43:33 am
I look her in the eyes, pleading.
"Please?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:45:13 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 01:54:11 am
Bubbles words and presence finally sink in, and my eyes go wide as I start to panic.
"I don't know any healing magic! I can't do anything to that piece of stomach! It doesn't have a mind for me to work from! I can't do anything! Oh Sisters, why can't I do anything?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:54:56 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 01:58:06 am
"No! This can't be happening!"
The room is filled again with an overpowering flash, and Bubbles finds himself holding a substantially regenerated stomach. Not whole, but close enough. Kris blinks in confusion and takes a step before stumbling and falling.
"Wh... what?"
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 01:59:33 am
"Kris, you and me will have to talk after this."
Bubbles walks up to Falcata, and asks Friesden what to do.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:00:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 02:02:07 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:02:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:03:08 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:03:30 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:05:08 am
"...What happened?"
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 02:05:14 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:06:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:07:24 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 02:08:17 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:08:44 am
"Kris...take the painkiller off Friesden please."
"I don't mind Hiero."
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 02:11:06 am
She sank into the bed and felt the exhaustion overtake her. She hoped somepony else could do it... she was so tired...
As Kris drifts off into sleep, the magic holding back Friesden's pain begins to fade. She can feel it slowly returning...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 02:12:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:13:47 am
"I...Can....Deal...With...It."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:13:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:15:15 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:15:50 am
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:16:09 am
(http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2011/361/9/4/pony_commission__lilac_joker_by_lunalie-d4kdg7q.png)
((This is a picture of Lilac, curtosy of an amazing devientart friend, Lunalie!))
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:17:20 am
"What are you doing here... agh. Hiero, make sure she doesn't see this."
Bubbles begins to cut open Falcata.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 02:21:09 am
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:23:13 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:25:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:28:04 am
"Ah. Lilac," she says through gritted teeth. "What is it?"
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 02:30:55 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:31:50 am
"Friesden! WHAT DO I DO NOW?!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:32:56 am
"You'll have to cut it all out. As well as you can."
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:34:00 am
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:34:06 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:35:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 02:37:27 am
Friesden's eyes blink once or twice, then shut, her body utterly exhausted by the effort of resisting the pain.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 02:37:38 am
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:38:41 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:39:11 am
Bubbles bucks Lilac away.
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:40:27 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:41:29 am
"Now that thats done..."
Bubbles turns to Lilac.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:42:58 am
'Useless. I couldn't do anything...'
Lilac's impact on my side barely even registers through my melancholy.
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:44:37 am
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 02:47:23 am
Bubbles leaves the group and disappears into his office.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:54:47 am
"Hmm?"
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:55:38 am
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 02:57:47 am
"No, I don't think so."
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 02:59:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 03:03:46 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 03:39:09 am
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 01:18:11 pm
Falcata tries to ignore the nagging, gnawing pain in her body as she attempts to return to sleep. She'd awoken some time ago, hours perhaps, she wasn't sure, but she was so exhausted all she wanted to do was go back to sleep. The events of the previous day kept replaying in her head: everypony confronting her in the barracks and hauling her off here like she was a foal.
Well, perhaps she was one. If she had admitted things earlier, there would surely have been less of a scene. She could still see the look of terror in Kris' eyes as her daughter looked at her in the barracks. That was something she would never forgive herself for. Kris deserved to hear it from her, long ago, not at the last moment when all seemed lost.
Friesden drifted back into her mind. The idea that Dr. Bubbles had come up with to save her life... she couldn't have asked anypony to do that for her. If she hadn't been on the verge of unconsciousness the entire time, she probably would have contested Friesdent's decision to volunteer herself. Not that she wasn't grateful, of course. But as it was, the surgery must have happened. She still felt as sick as ever, but the extra pain in her belly told her that something had been done. A slight hint of fear reasserted itself as she wondered if the procedure had failed after all.
She kept her eyes closed and shifted slightly, catching as a jab of pain stabbed through her. She couldn't remember anything after when they got to the hospital, and she was a bit afraid to open her eyes and look around. If anything bad had happened to Friesden during the procedure, she'd never forgive herself of that either.
Somepony would come in eventually and try to wake her, and she'd listen to whatever they had to say whenever that happened. For now, she just really wanted to go back to sleep.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 01:21:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 04:25:34 pm
'Please, Sisters. Please let it have been a success. Please don't take her.'
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 04:28:01 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 04:44:05 pm
Friesden was still alive at least, that much was a relief. She continues to watch silently, not wanting to disturb the sleeping mare.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 04:58:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 05:04:35 pm
"Shh, you're alright. It's ok."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 05:09:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 05:12:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 05:15:54 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 06:02:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 06:09:55 pm
"How are you feeling, Falcata?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:10:14 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 06:22:59 pm
"I hurt... a lot... but I'll manage."
She props up with some difficulty and a cringe and looks at Friesden with evident worry on her face.
"How is she?"
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 06:29:18 pm
"She's having a nightmare. Seems like a pretty powerful one as well. Physically, I imagine she's about in the same boat as you are right now. She's in pain, but should pull through."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:33:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 06:35:07 pm
"I see... that's good to hear." That sounded terrible... "That she will be fine, I mean."
She begins to say something else, but is interrupted by Friesden's outburst. She recoils slightly and looks away.
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 06:36:00 pm
"Hi Khenal...i'm sorry for yesterday...."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:40:36 pm
"Where....where am I?" she asks between pants of breath.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 06:42:50 pm
"Looks like the nightmare is just about over, at least."
I can't help but smile when I see Lilac enter the hospital with a flower.
"Hello Lilac. Yesterday wasn't your fault, I was just... stressed."
"Friesden!" Remembering we're still in the hospital, I try not to shout again. "You're in the hospital. It looks like the operation was a success, thanks to you."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:45:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 06:46:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 06:49:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:50:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 06:53:46 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 06:56:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:57:00 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 06:58:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 06:59:40 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 07:03:18 pm
Kris takes note of everypony present and beams a smile at Lilac. "Hi, Lilac."
When she sees that her mother is awake, her smile widens to a grin and she trots over. "Mom! You're awake!"
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 07:03:35 pm
"Look, my whole family is dead, everypony. And you're upset about taking a painkiller?! Gee, I thought my sister was better than this..."
Lilac then notices Kris and turns around to face her.
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 07:03:45 pm
I just look at Friesden, tears welling up.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 07:05:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 07:05:48 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 07:14:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 07:19:01 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 07:51:41 pm
She looks back to Friesden with another worried expression. "Friesden... I owe you my life for what you've done for me. You deserve a lot more than that..."
Kris backs down and looks back to Lilac, confusion forming on her features. "Did... did I do something wrong?"
((And now I have to perform some surgery on my computer! Be back in a little while. Assuming it doesn't die during the operation, heh))
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 07:56:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 07:59:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:03:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:07:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:11:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:14:02 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 08:17:09 pm
"YOU'RE MY SISTER! YOU'RE ALL I HAVE BESIDES UNCLE STARKEY AND AUNTIE OTIK!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:17:56 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 08:18:43 pm
"DARN IT SIS, CUT IT OUT NOW!"
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:18:56 pm
"There is no price for a sister, for a daughter, for love. You have worth beyond measure, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:20:26 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 08:22:56 pm
"Come on sis...will you play with me?"
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:24:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:25:29 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 08:26:41 pm
Lilac slowly walks out of the room.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:28:43 pm
"See? Even my own sister knows how worthless I am."
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 08:31:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:34:07 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:38:13 pm
I gently take her hoof and carefully nuzzle her, trying to comfort her without harming her further.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:40:04 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 08:41:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:41:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:43:20 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 08:46:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:47:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 08:50:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 08:52:47 pm
Falcata shakes her head and gives Friesden a warm smile.
"Friesden... you are not worthless. Nopony who is worthless would be willing to do what you did for me, and your body didn't make that decision for itself. I only wish there were more ponies like you in this world."
Kris steps over and looks Friesden in the eyes. "I'm sorry, Miss Friesden... I didn't mean to make you upset..."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 08:53:05 pm
Post by: ansontan2000 on December 29, 2011, 08:59:43 pm
"Friesden, you are NOT worthless."
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 09:04:49 pm
"Shh, it's alright. You see how much everypony cares for you, Friesden? You have far too many friends to be worthless."
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 09:06:25 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 09:14:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on December 29, 2011, 09:16:46 pm
I lean down to kiss the mare of my dreams, to let her know she's all I'll ever need.
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 09:22:24 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 09:24:39 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 09:27:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 09:28:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 09:42:17 pm
Kris looks around briefly. "Um, where did Lilac go?"
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 09:43:40 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 09:53:09 pm
"Um... I'll be right back..." she murmurs to herself as she turns to leave and go find Lilac.
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 09:54:39 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 09:58:35 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 10:00:02 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 10:00:58 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 10:04:08 pm
Lilac opens the door. Kris notices Lilac's normally blue-purple-pink mane is soaked with tears.
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 10:06:00 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 10:17:09 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 10:45:28 pm
Inside the hospital, a thought finally strikes Falcata, now that things have settled down. She opens her eyes again and says, "Wait... did somepony say something about Kris doing something? Something to Friesden?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 10:48:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 10:51:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 10:52:21 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 10:57:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 10:58:48 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:03:38 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 11:09:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:13:29 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 11:20:37 pm
She sighs. "You're right though. Kris has known for some time. She has to have. I'll never forgive myself for putting her through that." She snorts quietly. "It's probably my fault anyway. If I'd waited until help arrived, I probably wouldn't have ever gotten sick in the first place."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:22:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 11:29:00 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:32:17 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 11:36:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 29, 2011, 11:37:33 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:39:39 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 29, 2011, 11:44:54 pm
Falcata returns the nuzzle and smiles. "Me too... So, Mr. Heiro says that you were the one that helped Dr. Bubbles for me. I'm really proud of you."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 29, 2011, 11:47:54 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 11:49:31 pm
Post by: The Master on December 29, 2011, 11:51:19 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 12:07:25 am
Falcata shakes her head and places a hoof on her belly. "No... I'll still be sick for a while. But why don't you run along and get something?"
"Okay!" She pauses and looks at Heiro. "Are you hungry? Why don't you come with me?"
Falcata smiles at her. "Now, don't bother Mr. Heiro..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 12:09:34 am
Post by: The Master on December 30, 2011, 12:15:34 am
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 12:19:02 am
Kris smiles. "I like Mr. Heiro... I'll be good mom, I promise!" She hears Lilac's question and turns to face her. "Sure, you can come too!"
Falcata looks to Heiro with a slightly embarrassed expression. "I-I wouldn't want to impose..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 12:22:59 am
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 12:28:46 am
"I will!"
Spoiler: My brother drew Falcata, Yay! (click to show/hide)
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 12:30:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 12:32:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:05:27 am
Friesden lies in her bed. Even after emerging from the hospital, the nightmares continue. She yells snatches of phrases out, strange strings of words without meaning.
The only constant themes are her father, her brother and her son.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:10:20 am
He carefully tries to wake her "Hey Friesden, wake up, you're allright, come on."
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:11:41 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:14:12 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:15:20 am
"Friesden, are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:17:35 am
"Wha-what? What happened?"
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:21:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:23:03 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:24:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:26:36 am
"I don't have a brother or a son. How...How DARE you?"
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:27:14 am
"It's also not the first time you've had this nightmare. Can you tell us anything about it?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:28:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:29:34 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:31:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:32:24 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:33:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:34:38 am
Where had she put it? She wasn't needed here anymore, and all she seemed to be doing was causing pain...
She found it...
The rope.
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:37:00 am
"Does nopony know how to knock anymore?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:39:04 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:40:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:42:14 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:43:28 am
'I never did get the chance to ask about his "Big sis"...'
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:44:34 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:47:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:49:04 am
She dropped.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 01:50:51 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 01:51:55 am
I round the corner and see through the door just in time to see Friesden plummet.
"Friesden!"
I rush through the air, desperately hoping I won't be too late.
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:52:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 01:57:54 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 02:01:34 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:02:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:05:51 am
Friesden hangs her head and cries.
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 02:10:52 am
'Nothing feels broken at least, but I think I'm going to be pretty sore come morning...'
"Friesden? Are you alright?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:14:18 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:36:23 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 02:39:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:39:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:43:50 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:45:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:47:02 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 02:50:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:51:40 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:52:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:53:41 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 02:57:28 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 02:57:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 02:59:30 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 03:07:25 am
"Don't give up hope! As long as you live, you can still find hope! Mica must still be alive, he must be!"
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:08:56 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 03:11:15 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 03:12:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:12:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 03:15:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:16:35 am
"But...but I can't. I'm not worth enough to make that exchange. O Mica...Mica...my brother...where are you?"
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 03:17:15 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 03:21:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:26:30 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 03:30:21 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 03:31:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:32:44 am
Post by: Khenal on December 30, 2011, 03:35:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:40:07 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 03:41:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 03:48:02 am
Post by: The Master on December 30, 2011, 04:02:52 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:06:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:10:39 pm
"No, Friesden," Khenal answers. "You purify us, complete us! Without you we are as nothing. Please, don't leave us!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:18:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:20:24 pm
"You are more than we deserve," replied Khenal.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:23:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:26:46 pm
"Every day I ask Celestia how the kindest pony in the world can even stand to be in the same room as me," says Khenal.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:30:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:32:12 pm
"You," Khenal answers simply.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:37:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:40:39 pm
"Just please tell me how I can show you how much you are worth. I would bring down the moon for you, I would douse the sun. I would drag the princess to you in chains. I would fight the Sisters themselves to show you how much you are worth, Friesden."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:44:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:46:06 pm
"Always."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:48:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:52:20 pm
Friesden smiles, a sad smile, but a smile nonetheless. "Is...Is that it?"
"I could die now and know I lived a good life."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 04:54:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 04:57:22 pm
"I said I would do anything for you. If you ask it, I would happily die." Khenal drew the axe used by Heiro to his neck, held in his magic.
"NO! I couldn't bear missing you...either of you."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 05:02:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 05:05:34 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 05:08:38 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 05:12:28 pm
"You deserve so much more. More than we can give," Khenal says as he joins in the hug.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 05:15:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 05:17:20 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 05:24:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 05:28:42 pm
She keeps her face calm, and the smile on it. They wouldn't have to know...but they would be happier. It was a good idea.
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 05:39:31 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 30, 2011, 06:18:30 pm
Dimshas Ginetigest, our legendary pottery glazer. Was outside today, setting out a new sentry bunny. Just as she turned to leave the rabbit spotted an ambush. More Diomedians had come. The alarm was sounded and the military flew into action. The Diomedians killed the bunny, but our craftspony was able to escape. The Marksponies, all took to the walls, and all melee ponies, militia and guard alike were sent to the courtyard.
However, while this was going on outside, business continued as usual in the Glitterglen market. Our broker Bokbon, oversaw the paying of Glitterglen's taxes to the capital this year. This year our “offering” was paid almost entirely with goods made from the bones or leather or our enemies. We want to show those ponies back in the capital what we have to deal with out here. Piles of decorative armor made from Diomedians, Zebras, Honey Badger Ponies, Crundles and other beasts' bones. Dozens of Skull Totems, some leather goods we could spare, a stone figurine of my Chief Bodyguard Falcata smashing the skull of a darkbolt with a hammer, a pile of Zebra and Diomedian meat for the royal kitchens, and a crown of Zebra hoof and Gorlak ivory for the princess.
We then traded our other goods: clothing, stone and earthenware crafts, goblets of gold, etc. to both caravans in exchange for great quantities of metal.
Charity's Journal 14th Granite 100
Itur broke ranks and charged the enemy. She fought a lone Darkbolt hammerer on the bridge just out of range as the rest of the militia looked on, not sure what to do. She shot the Darkbolt in the right wing as it charged, and then repeatedly beat it in the head with her crossbow, the Darkbolt fell unconscious but would not die. Itur wouldn't return to the safety of the walls but just kept hitting it as the other Diomedians looked on from afar. Otik begged Starkey to allow the militia to go save the poor mare, and eventually he relented and called for a sortie.
As the militia arrived to help, the markspony, tried a different tactic and kicked the unmoving darkbolt in the head smashing the skull. She then moved into position just on our side of the river.
While we waited it was once again Itur who broke ranks firing off a bolt and charging across the river. This time however, she was not as lucky. She was pulled out of the air by her wing by the magic of the Dark Princess leading the enemy attack. While held by her wing, two vile tentacle ponies beat her with copper warhammers, the autopsy our doctors, Bubbles and Friesden, preformed later showed that she drowned in her own blood from her internal bleeding, a sad death for a good soldier.
However, the charge of the rest of the army together slaughtered the enemy.
Additional casualties include.
Cornbread, Markspegasis, Skyguard, damage to both front hoofs, left rear leg broken and compound fractures of the lower spine, Bubble's evaluation is that the nervous tissure has been cut apart. Surgery is required.
((Poor Otik, her squad only had three ponies including herself and one is dead and the other wounded. Depending on how things go with Cornbread, this might be the end of the Skyguard.))
Hiero, Axepony, Fortress Guard, left rear leg broken.
((Hiero had his leg broken by a Tentacle pony with a copper warhammer, he then struck his axe into the back of a tentacle pony's leg and it got stuck and then someone else killed it. Still zero notable kills.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 06:24:19 pm
Sisterssisterssisters
I can deal with the memories of my past. Khenal and Heiro have helped me through them.
This battle was just horrific!
Itur. Oh, Sisters! I should have been the one to suffer that.
(Tears are streaked across the page at this point, obscuring the text beyond readability.)
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 07:12:54 pm
I tried to kill myself again today.
Khenal.
He saved me.
Heiro.
(tears obscure this part of the text)
My brother Mica is gone. I could wish he was not, but he is. My brother Heiro is here.
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 08:41:42 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on December 30, 2011, 08:57:42 pm
((... Oh, and KingStrongbeard, I assume that Falcata didn't do anything of note during the ambush?))
((That is correct. She did take part in the charge, but was near the back with Khenal. Neither of them actually got a chance to get attacked or be attacked by anything. The crossbow ponies under her command got to shoot at the enemy, but that's the total sum of her involvement. Also, Telgin that art that you posted a while back of Falcata was great.))
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 09:04:13 pm
Heiro had been hurt, but the Sisters had blessed Friesden, and he had only gotten a broken bone, which would heal in time. Even as the three entered, Khenal was next to Friesden on her right, and Heiro was on her left. They had refused to leave her side ever since the... The attempt, though the siege had forced them to their duty. But when they came back, it was as if it had been just after.
At least she could be of comfort to them. But if Falcata agreed, maybe she could be even more comfort. It would be easier this way. For all of them.
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:15:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:16:36 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 10:16:57 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:18:38 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 10:20:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:26:07 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:28:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:29:52 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:36:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:38:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:43:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:44:12 pm
Friesden nods. "Yes, please."
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 10:47:47 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 10:47:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:52:40 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on December 30, 2011, 10:55:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 10:57:47 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:05:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:08:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:10:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:11:54 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:13:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:13:55 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:16:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:17:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:22:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:24:52 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 30, 2011, 11:32:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 30, 2011, 11:52:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on December 31, 2011, 01:45:53 am
"This... this isn't the answer. Friesden... I won't pretend that I've experienced the pain that you have, or even understand it. But we're not so different."
She looks away and hangs her own head slightly.
"This is something that I've never told anypony... but I quite nearly did the same thing to myself. After the terrible things that I'd done, after losing my husband, after being banished here, I was so consumed with despair that I tried to kill myself." She sighs. "One night, two days after we arrived here, I climbed to the top of the tower, and stared over the edge for hours. I kept trying to work up the courage to jump and it end it all. I never could."
She looks back to Friesden. "No matter how much I wanted to see Estoc again... no matter how much it hurt to be without him... no matter how much I hated myself for what I had done to bring myself and Kris here... it wasn't worth it. I couldn't leave Kris behind. The thought of leaving a loved one behind to have to live with my death, especially a senseless one like that... I couldn't do it."
She smiles weakly at Friesden. "But... I think you understand that now... right?"
Post by: Dsarker on December 31, 2011, 01:51:28 am
Post by: Telgin on December 31, 2011, 02:05:01 am
She motions to the door, where Khenal would presumably be standing just out of earshot. "I don't think you understand how much this would hurt Khenal if he found out. He blamed himself for exploiting you, to the point of hurting himself to fix it."
Falcata looks Friesden in the eyes again. "To Khenal, being enthralled to him, is worse than leaving him. He would never forgive himself for putting you through that, even if he knew it wasn't him that did it to you this time."
She sighs. "It's all academic anyway... I never learned to use my magic well, and I certainly don't know how to do that. Even if I could, Khenal would surely find out sooner than later. And if he found out... I fear what he might do to himself next to try and free you."
She places a hoof on Friesden's shoulder. "Please... this isn't the way... With Khenal, you can overcome anything."
Post by: The Master on December 31, 2011, 02:06:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on December 31, 2011, 02:10:27 am
"I guess...I guess I just got it wrong...again."
She looks up to Falcata with beseeching eyes.
"Please...tell me why I deserve him? What is there that I've done right?"
Post by: Telgin on December 31, 2011, 03:01:27 am
She points off toward Khenal again. "You've done nothing but good things since I've come to know you. And you won't find a pony that loves you any more than Khenal does. He can see the good in you. I can see the good in you..."
She pulls Friesden into an embrace. "You saved my life, Friesden. I'll never forget that as long as I live." She releases the embrace and bites back tears. "You might not accept my thanks for what you've done... but... would you accept my friendship instead? As long as I live, you'll always have somepony to talk to in me."
Post by: Dsarker on December 31, 2011, 03:33:16 am
Post by: Telgin on December 31, 2011, 06:18:01 am
"Everypony makes mistakes..." She places her hoof on Friesden's shoulder again. "But the only mistake that you're making is not trusting yourself. It took a lot of courage and strength to do what you did for me. I believe in you, it's time you did the same."
((Apologies for holding things up. I should be returning to a more typical schedule now. Oh, and Falcata has been happy recently. She made a friend recently. She talked with a friend recently.)
Post by: Dsarker on December 31, 2011, 07:54:37 am
Post by: Telgin on December 31, 2011, 01:35:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on December 31, 2011, 02:28:34 pm
"Heiro? Khenal? You can come back in now."
Post by: The Master on January 01, 2012, 12:17:09 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 02:36:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 02:41:02 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 02:49:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 02:51:00 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 02:54:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 02:57:25 am
"Because...because...because it would just be so much easier. It would...it would..."
She braces herself, as if expecting a slap. "Please don't be mad!"
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 03:10:39 am
Heiro pipes up.
"Ya, why would you do that? We don't want you to just be a slave, we love you! We want you to be happy and still be you!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 03:29:46 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 03:37:33 am
I pause, giving Friesden a look combining concern, inspiration and just a dash of mischievousness. Heiro seems to notice the look, but says nothing. Instead, he gives me an inquiring look of his own.
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 03:45:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 03:49:09 am
"You being you is what makes us happy! Being enthralled removes everything that makes you you!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 03:55:13 am
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 03:59:10 am
"Friesden, you are fit to be whatever you like. I would follow you to the ends of the world. In fact, I was just thinking of something along those lines. What would you like to do for the rest of the day? For the next few days?"
Post by: Telgin on January 01, 2012, 04:00:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 04:01:23 am
Her face brightens a bit as Falcata reassures her, then droops again. They were being nice...trying to save her feelings.
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 04:10:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 04:12:44 am
"But...but...But!"
Post by: ansontan2000 on January 01, 2012, 04:25:10 am
Post by: The Master on January 01, 2012, 06:49:25 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 01, 2012, 11:24:23 am
The carvan form the captial decided to set out through the carverns. The leader had a map that showed tunnels that would take them all the way out of the Failed Jungles. Seemed they were less afraid of the cavern beasts then they were the Diomedians. Shortly after they left, Otik, who was on watch (Alone since her squad is shattered.) heard the sounds of battle. She called for assistance and the Militia and the Fortress Guard ran out to help. They found a single unicorn from the carvan, one of their guards, standing in an opening surrounded by a half dozen dead crundles, standing over the lone survivor. He smashed it's skull, with his mace, just as the militia arrived. This unicorn guard had stayed behind to cover the escape of the merchants, and while he was victorious he was battered and bruised, Starkey offered to take the stallion up to see Bubbles, but he said he was fine. He then left to catch up with his , the militia took a look around and found another group of crundles nearby, undoubtly planning an ambush on the caravan, and they killed them all.
Charity's Journal 14th Slate 100
A large group of new migrants has arrived. 19 in all.
Male Unicorn Soapmaker, (He's going to be drafted into the militia)
Male Earthpony Medic (He's got both Medical and Combat skills, I'm going to draft him into the melee militia. He's also married to the next pony.) ((That makes the melee squad full at 10 again.))
Female Pegasus Cheese Maker (Skyguard Recruit.)
Female Pegasus Nurse
Male Unicorn Ranger (Married to the following pony. No children.)
Female Unicorn Peasant
Male Unicorn Gem Cutter (Less skilled than Nicolta so he's going into the Guard.)
Female Pegasus Fisherpony (A new recruit for the Skygaurd)
Male Pegasus Ranger (Definatly excellent material for the Skyguard.)
Male Earthpony Furnace Operator
Female Pegasus Dairy Farmer (Another Skyguard Recruit.)
Female Pegasus Glassworker (Yay!)
Female Pegasus Soapmaker (Skyguard)
Female Earth Fisherpony
Male Pegasus Doctor
Male Unicorn low level Metalcrafter (Drafted into the guard.)
Female Pegasus low level Glassworker (Skyguard.)
Female Pegasus Fish Disector (Skyguard.)
Female Pegasus Peasant (Skyguard.)
I'm quite pleased to see so many new recruits for our military. This brings Starkey and Otik's squads each up to ten members (assuming Cornbread can still fight when Friesden finishes operating, 9 if otherwise.) And the Fortress Guard is at 9. And my bodyguard is still at 4.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 07:43:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 07:47:01 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 08:47:19 pm
"You'll do fine."
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 08:54:24 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 08:59:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 09:06:17 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 09:08:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 09:15:29 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 09:19:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 09:45:58 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 09:50:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 09:53:47 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 09:56:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 10:01:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 10:09:48 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 01, 2012, 10:18:06 pm
"Don't be sorry Friesden, you've done nothing wrong..."
She smiles and moves to look Friesden in the eyes. "Evil ponies don't risk their lives to save others. That is the opposite of evil. You're probably the kindest and most selfless pony I've ever met."
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 10:22:39 pm
"I...I just wish I could repay you all."
Post by: Telgin on January 01, 2012, 10:32:27 pm
Falcata gives her another genuine smile. "But, if you would do one more thing for me? Stop doubting yourself so much."
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 10:59:35 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 11:07:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 01, 2012, 11:07:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 11:09:07 pm
"If that is what will make you happy. If that is what you ask, I will do it. Gladly."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 11:09:12 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 11:10:42 pm
"I...I can't thank you enough. I'll never deserve you three, or Starkey and Otik, never."
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 11:20:15 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 11:23:25 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 01, 2012, 11:23:46 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 01, 2012, 11:27:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 11:30:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 11:39:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 01, 2012, 11:42:26 pm
"So, what did you want to do today?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 01, 2012, 11:47:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 12:14:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 12:22:25 am
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 01:22:45 am
"That sounds like a good plan."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 01:24:50 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 01:27:19 am
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 01:29:20 am
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 03:39:14 am
Kris takes a cautious step into the caverns, trying to avoid being seen by anypony. She wasn't supposed to be down there, she knew, but it was safe up here at the uppermost parts. Lots of ponies came and went all the time.
She slips down the tunnel toward one of the smaller shafts off to the side. There probably wouldn't be anypony in there, and she could find something to prove to Lilac that she'd been down here. Her mom would be pretty angry if she found out she was down here, but there wasn't much chance of that, and Lilac insisted on the dare. She'd be in and out in a moment, before anypony saw her.
But how could she prove she'd been down here? Some spider webs? A gem?
She looks up and down the walls as she creeps along in the growing darkness. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea...
((Oh, and picture of Kris below. She's a bit chubby, hehe.))
Spoiler: It's Kris! (click to show/hide)
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 03:48:40 am
"Wait was that Kris? Why would she be going down there sis?" Silence is all he hears. "Right Midnight isn't here... If she was then I could... But its Kris if she gets hurt... Come on Heiro you can do this, Just focus"
Nervously, he begins to follow, his nervousness soon making him move faster, until he was running straight into the caves. "Grab Kris, get out, grab Kris, get out, grab Kris, get out"
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 03:54:11 am
She steps back and realizes that it's quite dark now, and she can't quite make out the way back. How did that spell go again? She focuses a bit, and her horn lets off a dull glow, bringing her surroundings into a level of perceptible light. But there was something else...
Her eyes snap open and she lets out a scream as she picks out the flicker of eyes staring back at her, and she bolts for the direction she came from.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 04:00:33 am
Quickly, he runs on, holding Midnight's axe in a death grip.
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 04:10:32 am
Suddenly she finds herself face-to-face with a guardpony, axe ready. She skids to a halt with a startled squeak, nearly blundering into him.
Behind her, the crundle leaps forward, claws splayed and a sinister grin on its twisted face.
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 05:15:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 05:17:23 am
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 05:22:26 am
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 06:03:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 06:11:20 am
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 07:24:47 am
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 03:21:15 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 05:54:42 pm
"Kris, run!"
He begins to swing his axe at the creature.
Post by: Meta The Golem on January 02, 2012, 06:40:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 06:54:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 07:01:28 pm
Kris says nothing but obeys the command, bolting past Heiro into the expanse of the cavern. She didn't see any more monsters around, but she wasn't keen on getting too far away from Herio and so stopped after a few steps. She turns around to see the axe connect squarely with the crundle.
((Feel free to describe the carnage as you see fit. :) ))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 07:05:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 07:18:33 pm
Falcata was walking past the entrance to the caverns when she heard the screams of a filly, followed by what was definitely the sounds of something being torn apart in combat. Her blood froze in her veins for a moment before she galloped at full speed into the open expanse. She couldn't pick out who the voice belonged to... Lilac maybe? Please be okay... please be okay...
((I'll leave it up to you on what state she finds the two in.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 07:27:53 pm
"Have to fight, have to keep Kris safe, have to"
He continues this whispered chant, Slowly and repeatedly striking the ground where the threat once stood. Exhausted and withdrawn he doesn't notice Falcata's approach, focused on destroying the danger that he can't see has far passed.
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 07:49:46 pm
"Kris!" Falcata shouts, trotting over to her.
The filly looks up, and upon recognizing her mom, stands and gallops over, throwing herself into a hug as she begins to cry. "Mom... I'm... I'm so sorry... I... I didn't mean to..."
Falcata strokes her mane and tries to calm her as she notices Heiro still hacking away at the gore on the ground. "Corporal? Are you alright? I... I think you got it..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 07:51:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 07:56:45 pm
The filly nods without a word and initially resists her mother's attempts to dislodge her, but backs away after enough persuasion. Falcata steps over to Heiro and looks him in the eyes, careful not to get too close to the axe he is hacking the ground with. "Corporal?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 07:59:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:07:25 pm
She reaches out with her magic and tries to still the axe as he brings it down for another swing, again careful to stay out of his reach.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:11:34 pm
"D-...did I get it? A-...are there more? W-...we s-should leave now, quickly. Kris is Kris OK!"
He stumbles through his sentences, not seeming to notice his surroundings, seemingly scared of something... or everything.
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:15:30 pm
Kris steps over nervously and takes a glance at the bloody mess on the ground before hiding behind her mother.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:18:54 pm
Heiro starts breathing faster, seeming to be on the verge of panic.
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:21:25 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:23:39 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:28:05 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:35:51 pm
Slightly louder he says to Falcata "U-...um w-would you mind walking home with me? I-it's s-so quiet, I don't like it when it's quiet... U-...um you don't have to though if you don't want to."
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:43:01 pm
She looks back to Heiro. "Uh... alright. When are you supposed to go off duty? We might should see Captain Isos first..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:45:01 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:49:04 pm
"Oh... okay, come on, let's go."
She beckons for him to follow and begins off toward the living quarters.
Post by: Meta The Golem on January 02, 2012, 08:50:38 pm
Post by: Meta The Golem on January 02, 2012, 08:52:48 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:53:22 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 08:55:44 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 02, 2012, 08:59:02 pm
His voice drops and he mumbles to himself "K-kenal will know what to do. He's sure to be able to get sis back."
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 09:03:28 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 09:15:47 pm
"Friesden? Take five, hun. Frie-HURK"
As he drops his guard, Otik lashes out with the whip, wrapping around Starkey's hindlegs and hoisting him into the air.
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:18:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 09:19:47 pm
"Need a shpare shtallion hun? Jush caugh' thish wun fresh!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:23:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 09:24:06 pm
I check on Friesden under my wing.
"Heh, it's alright, Friesden. They're just training."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:25:29 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 09:41:05 pm
"Well I can't say I'm not overjoyed to see you, hun, but... are you sure you should be up and about? We heard about what you did for miss Falcata."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:42:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 09:46:39 pm
"You saved her life, Friesden. That was certainly far more than nothing."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 09:47:08 pm
Starkey bends down and gently nuzzles Friesden, slowly raising her to her hooves.
"The way I hear, you walked Doc Bubbles through surgery with a pony's hooves rooting around in your insides. That's far from nothing."
He hugs her gently.
"That was incredibly brave, and I'm very proud of you."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:49:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 09:54:26 pm
"Dunnae talk like that, hun. Yer th' only one in a thousand miles who knew th' procedure. She would've died without ye."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 09:57:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 09:58:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:01:33 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 10:08:26 pm
Starkey takes this opportunity to quietly check the bandages around Friesden's abdomen.
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:15:22 pm
"I...I have to tell you something. I've...I've already told Khenal this...but I have to tell you two."
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 10:17:17 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 10:20:59 pm
"Yer gettin' married?"
Starkey looks up.
"You're pregnant?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:25:37 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 10:29:01 pm
Otik clutches her tightly.
"In Luna's name, Friesden... why would you ever want to do that to yourself?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:30:37 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 10:32:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:33:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 10:38:57 pm
"Would you like me to continue instead?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:39:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 10:42:46 pm
"She asked me to wait outside, so I don't know the specifics of their conversation, but... she wanted Falcata to Enthrall her to me."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 10:46:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 10:50:01 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:05:59 pm
"Y'know hun, there's other ways ye could make Khenal happy..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 11:07:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 11:10:01 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:11:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 11:12:47 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:18:33 pm
Otik lifts Friesden's muzzle, staring into her eyes.
"Promise. I dunnae think I could stand t' lose another child..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 11:22:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:26:49 pm
While they share their tender moment, Starkey and Khenal step aside.
"Sorry we couldn't come and visit you two, but with all the new recruits to get settled in, we've both had our hands full. How have things been?"
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 11:29:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:31:52 pm
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 11:37:12 pm
Lilac's voice can be heard coming from the doors to the Arena.
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 11:38:25 pm
I sigh, heavily.
"I really hope it works. It hurts to see her being so depressed and self-deprecating ."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:44:14 pm
Starkey sighs, looking on at the mother and daughter.
"I don't think this is some passing thing that we can fix with a lot of hugs and encouragement. She needs help, Khenal. Help she can't get in Glitterglen."
He snorts.
"Help I don't think she can get anywhere in the Principality. Back home, there were specialists, trained to help ponies like her, but I've never heard of anything like that here."
- - - - - -
"Lilac? Wot is it, hun?"
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 11:46:46 pm
"THIS was on my bed!!!"
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 11:47:43 pm
"Back home? What kind of specialists?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 02, 2012, 11:49:13 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 02, 2012, 11:51:32 pm
She didn't like the way Heiro was talking and acting when she left him alone. She needed to get Khenal to him soon.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 02, 2012, 11:54:24 pm
- - - - - -
"Och, I told th' lads the 2nd lieutenant's office was off-limits. I'm sorry, hun. Just give that here, an' I'll take care of it."
Post by: The Master on January 02, 2012, 11:57:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 02, 2012, 11:58:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 12:05:42 am
- - - - - -
Otik blinks.
"N-No, hun, they don't. Wot did it say to ye?"
She narrows her eyes at Lilac.
"Lilac... did th' dagger tell ye t'set fires? Or t'hurt lit'l animals?"
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:08:11 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:09:50 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 12:10:31 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 12:14:16 am
"Oh? Oh, that's... right, I've never told you. Never told anypony, besides Otik..."
Starkey turns back to Khenal.
"I was born in LaceAbbey. It's a province of the Rainbow Coalition. I didn't become a citizen of the Principailty until I joined the Tailentranced city guard."
- - - - - -
Otik ponders this a moment. There's only one place she can think of where those words occur together, but what did that have to do with anything?
"Is that... all it says, hun?"
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:19:55 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:21:34 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:26:42 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:28:02 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 12:29:58 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:31:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:31:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 12:34:51 am
Otik rushes to Lilac's side. Starkey gallops up beside her.
"What happened?"
"I dunno, she came in with that knife, she must've slipped and cut herself."
"I'll take care of her. You see to Friesden."
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:34:59 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:36:47 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:37:55 am
"Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:39:38 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:46:28 am
"Are you alright?"
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 12:48:39 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 12:49:29 am
Starkey checks Lilac for any obvious signs of injury.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:50:46 am
It snaps, loudly and clearly.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:55:10 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 12:55:48 am
"Ohbuckohbuckohbuck... Friesden? What do I do?"
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 12:56:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 12:57:29 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 12:59:09 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:00:09 am
Panic starts to creep into my voice as I grow more worried.
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 01:00:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:01:28 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 01:02:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 03, 2012, 01:05:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:06:22 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:08:06 am
As I turn to rush to the hospital, I only dimly register that Otik and Lilac are on the ground, and Starkey looks unsteady as well.
"I'm still here, Friesden! I'm taking you to the hospital. That's the right place to go, right?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:11:10 am
She does so.
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 01:12:27 am
**********************
Starkey "wakes up" in a wasteland. He can hear somepony or something screaming.
'...HONOR, LOYALTY, LAUGHTER, HONESTY!!!!'
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:13:42 am
"Friesden? Friesden! Can you still hear me?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:15:09 am
"I'm still here, Khenal. Just a bit tired, Khenal. You're going to make a wonderful father, Khenal. I do love you, Khenal."
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 01:18:54 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:22:27 am
I continue rushing towards the hospital, hoping the doctors there can help Friesden.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:31:59 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:39:58 am
"Of course I'll marry you!"
I burst into the hospital and gently set Friesden down on a bed. It looks like Venture is on duty.
"Venture! Friesden broke her wing!"
I fidget in place as Venture goes about examining the break.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:44:24 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 03, 2012, 01:47:23 am
Post by: The Master on January 03, 2012, 01:50:32 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 01:51:17 am
"How... is... she?" she manages between huffs.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 01:52:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 01:55:20 am
"I... I'm sorry I broke your wing, Friesden. I..."
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 02:01:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 02:02:53 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 02:09:07 am
"Yes, we will."
I gently nuzzle Friesden as Venture returns with what she needs to set the wing.
"Please step back for a moment while I set the bone and apply the cast so it'll heal properly."
Reluctantly, I step back to let Venture do her work. As I do, I notice Falcata.
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 02:11:32 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 02:15:00 am
"Khenal... this is a terrible time for this... but I think Corporal Heiro needs your help."
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 02:16:00 am
"Well congratulations! Hold still please, I want this to set properly."
Her horn glows as she sets the break and casts a minor anesthetic spell so she can sew a few stitches before the cast goes on.
I wince as the wing is set, but listen to Falcata.
"Heiro? What's wrong?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 02:20:28 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 02:26:59 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 02:39:42 am
"Actually, I've never been to one either. But it's supposed to be a great party and you get to wear a fancy dress."
Meanwhile, I talk with Falcata.
"Mental issues? I can certainly try, but I need Friesden's permission. After all, she's still in charge."
I turn back to Friesden, trying to not pay attention to what's happening with her wing.
"Friesden? Heiro might need my help with something. Is it alright if I leave you here with Venture and see what he needs?"
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 02:46:36 am
She looks back to Friesden.
"I... maybe I can help him... I don't know..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 02:46:41 am
Friesden listens to Khenal, with concern spreading over her face. "You'll be back soon, won't you?"
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 02:49:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 03, 2012, 02:51:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:01:40 am
I lean in to give her a passionate, if unfortunately brief, kiss before following Falcata to see what Heiro needs help with.
'Take care of her, Venture. Take care of my Fiance...'
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 03:04:19 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:06:36 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 03:09:52 am
She leans down and tries to encourage him out from his hiding spot.
"Corporal? Khenal is here..."
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:10:06 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:12:38 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:14:22 am
"What's the matter, Heiro?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:16:34 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:18:45 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:20:34 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:22:50 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:24:15 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:29:41 am
"Just try to relax."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:36:34 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:38:26 am
'This doesn't seem right.'
I test the bars to see if any are loose.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:39:29 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:42:25 am
After a few moments of pondering, I decide to sever the link and return to reality. After blinking a few times, I look at Heiro.
"Why would you place me in a cell, Heiro?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:44:52 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:48:01 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:50:04 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 03:54:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 03:55:39 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 04:00:05 am
"It can't be me, then. You might trust me, but she doesn't."
I get up and pace a bit, trying to think.
'Ok, it can't be me. Who else can go in, though?' I glance at Falcata as I pace, then suddenly stop.
"Falcata, how's your magic?"
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 04:01:51 am
"I... uh, I'm a bit tired after helping the others to the hospital... but... I don't know any mental magic, so..."
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 04:11:31 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 04:15:55 am
She eyes Heiro nervously. It's clear that she's terrified to proceed.
"I-I'll try..."
She closes her eyes and tries to do what Khenal said. A faint violet glow surrounds her horn and forms a bridge to Heiro's head. After a few seconds, nervous sweat begins to form on her brow and she aborts the attempt.
"...I can't do it... I don't understand how to do that..."
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 04:20:07 am
"That was a great try, Falcata. Mental magic isn't easy, and I shouldn't have forced you to try like that. Heiro, I'm going to try to bring Falcata along with me into your mind. Do you think Midnight will allow me in if my Captain is there? Captain, are you willing to try going in?"
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 04:22:20 am
Oh, sisters... would Khenal be able to read her mind if he linked her? That could be bad...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 04:22:59 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 04:27:14 am
My horn glows as I cast a more complicated link to allow Falcata and myself into Heiro's mind.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 04:32:13 am
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 04:40:46 am
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 04:43:43 am
"Not the worst I've seen, but definitely not good. He's had a pretty traumatic past too, it looks like. How are you doing?"
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 05:02:20 am
She blinks away the awe and looks to Khenal, failing to mask a nervous frown.
"This... is a first for me. I..." She takes a cautious step forward and jumps back nervously as she knocks a pebble away with her step. "Y-you said we can cause a lot of damage here... that... that didn't hurt anything, did it?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 03, 2012, 03:44:34 pm
(My apologies for interrupting the role-playing that has been going on. This is Telgin's brother. I have become interested in joining this RP, but obviously do not want to stick a monkey-wrench into your campaign. For that reason, I am flexible and can accept any pony that you feel is best for me to own. My main desire is to be a male pony (since I am male myself). I had my eye on the male pegasus blacksmith, but I can be another character if that is necessary. I would like to have some degree of involvement, but not so much involvement that I must be on everyday nor have to stay up into the wee hours of the morning with RPing.)
Certainly Kryptid, welcome to Glitterglen. And feel free to take any pony you like. If you still want the blacksmith that is perfectly acceptable. Do you want me to give him any particular name? Once I have a name I'll post his in game information.
(I would like to claim the legendary metalworker, his name shall be Calmsteels and he will be a dwarf who ignores the crazy shit that's (if its any) going on around him unless it directly involves him or his friends (if any) he hopes to one day to make an legendary artifact sword or weapon that will be remembered for thousands of generations of dwarves!) (I hope i get to play this dwarf because hes vital to most of the fortress working with the metal making armor and what not) (i'll be keeping an eye on this thread king)
I've look through the available ponies list and I don't have a legendary metalcrafter, and I have zero legendary weaponsmiths Claimed or Otherwise. I do have a pair of legendary armorers available, if that's what you meant. One Male Earthpony married to Isos the captain of the guard, and one Female Earthpony. Would you like one of them? I also have two mid level metalcrafters. But the only weaponsmith in Glitterglen is Ironya and I lack the spare metal to even consider training a second one. To see a complete list of available ponies please look to the original post for this thread.
Post by: Meta The Golem on January 03, 2012, 04:46:57 pm
Post by: Meta The Golem on January 03, 2012, 06:31:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 11:22:59 pm
"Pebbles are usually just pebbles. This whole area seems to represent some massive trauma. Destruction itself seems to be the symbol, the landscape is just the canvas."
I again look around for any sign of life or happiness.
"We need to find Heiro..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 11:30:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 11:30:53 pm
"Uh, right. I think... this is your specialty, so I think you should lead?"
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 11:33:48 pm
"I think something is over this way. Let's hurry!"
I lead Falcata quickly towards where I saw the brief light.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 03, 2012, 11:39:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 11:40:59 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 03, 2012, 11:48:00 pm
(My apologies for interrupting the role-playing that has been going on. This is Telgin's brother. I have become interested in joining this RP, but obviously do not want to stick a monkey-wrench into your campaign. For that reason, I am flexible and can accept any pony that you feel is best for me to own. My main desire is to be a male pony (since I am male myself). I had my eye on the male pegasus blacksmith, but I can be another character if that is necessary. I would like to have some degree of involvement, but not so much involvement that I must be on everyday nor have to stay up into the wee hours of the morning with RPing.)
Certainly Kryptid, welcome to Glitterglen. And feel free to take any pony you like. If you still want the blacksmith that is perfectly acceptable. Do you want me to give him any particular name? Once I have a name I'll post his in game information.
Thank you! As for a name, I will do some thinking. How about Forgefire? I guess he'll be "Forge" for short.
Post by: Khenal on January 03, 2012, 11:53:17 pm
"What do you make of it, Falcata?"
I keep looking for any sign of Heiro as I listen to her answer.
Post by: Telgin on January 03, 2012, 11:58:07 pm
She chances a look up to Khenal. He'd probably find that blind stab at making sense of this pretty silly...
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 12:03:00 am
"You've got it, though you may not realize it. The tree is significant somehow. And this area is dying instead of dead like the last one. We need to find Heiro. If dying is the only improvement we can find, he's in very deep trouble indeed. Heiro! Can you hear me?"
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 12:09:15 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 12:22:22 am
"Come on now, I know you enjoyed it, watching that crundle get ripped apart. Just like you did to me yeah?"
"N-no, g-go away. s-shut up!"
"Shut up? But I know how much you hate the quiet. I'm all you have, now come on, just a little bit of fun. I'll bet that alicorn wouldn't even see it coming. Heh, I didn't."
"T-that was different, g-go away, o-or I'll."
"You'll what? Sic your big sis on me? She's GONE colt! She's never coming back! Now are you gonna play or am I going to have to make you!?
As the two approach they see two figures, one a large Shadowbolt, and the other a small Indigo colt, cowering at the large Diomedian.
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 12:38:23 am
I step around the tree to confront the Shadowbolt.
"Hey! Leave him alone!"
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 12:40:38 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 12:46:54 am
What? you! I see, so the colt asked for help." it chuckles "No matter, you can do nothing to me, even Midnight couldn't destroy me. Why don't you just leave, I promise I'll take good care of your little friend.
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 12:49:35 am
"Heiro! Can you hear me? Are you alright?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 12:55:27 am
*I* shouldn't be here? They are the intruders, you think they can protect you? Foolish colt, you should just give up, it's so much easier, and I know you enjoy it. No matter how much you deny it, I KNOW.
as they speak the grass around the Shadowbolt starts to blacken and smoke.
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 12:58:40 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 12:59:11 am
My horn glows as I attempt to immobilize the shadowbolt. I look past it at Falcata.
"And thanks for permission!"
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:06:16 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:12:01 am
"Heh, you think something that small is going to harm me? Humph, not that it matters, with Midnight gone it's just a matter of time. After all I don't have to leave, I live here."
With that remark he breaks Khenals grip, and runs off back into the village, calling back to them as he goes.
"Take care of that colt for me, it wouldn't do to have anything happen to him... yet."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:19:41 am
She looks over to Heiro and asks, "Heiro?"
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 01:21:51 am
'Sure, it had no effect. You just have something better to do, right?'
My smirk fades as I remember Heiro and why we're in his mind in the first place.
"Heiro? Are you alright?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:30:04 am
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:34:41 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 01:35:19 am
"Do you know where Midnight is?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:40:13 am
He looks around. "U-um b-big sis usually k-keeps this p-place all n-nice and g-green, I-I don't know why s-she let it g-get like this."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:44:31 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 01:47:12 am
"Maybe we should all go examine her axe then?"
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:51:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:53:28 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 02:01:48 am
"Heiro, why is Midnight gone? Did she say anything before she left?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 02:08:09 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 02:12:55 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 02:20:25 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:06:41 am
'Hmm, why would she disappear after a simple broken leg? She seemed to be tougher than that, considering how she fought me, especially if she's been keeping things like that shadowbolt from taking over Heiro.'
I stand up quickly as I realize something.
'Wait! She fights his battles! She blames herself for losing and hurting him!'
I glance at her axe, recalling what Heiro just said.
"Heiro, it's up to you to help Midnight.'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 03:11:51 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:13:03 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 03:24:07 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:26:07 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 03:28:51 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:31:29 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 03:45:11 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:47:24 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 03:48:51 am
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 03:59:24 am
'Whetstone, oil, rust remover, rags, sandpaper, wood finish, leather straps. Looks about right'
"Looks like everything you need to restore her axe. The whetstone will give it back it's edge, while the rust-remover will clean the rust off. Rub it with the oil afterwards so it won't rust back up as well. Use the sandpaper to get down to good wood on the handle, then use some of the finish on it. Wrap a bit of leather where she likes to keep her grip and rub just a little oil into that as well."
I point to each piece as I go through weapon maintenance like Starkey taught me. I smile at young Heiro as I finish.
"Don't worry, you'll be fine. Just remember you're doing this for Midnight and you should be fine."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 04:15:09 am
Heiro carefully takes each item out. Slowly he begins to Sharpen and shine the blade, As he does he begins humming an unfamiliar tune, He begins his work on the handle carefully smoothing it, wrapping the handle in leather and oiling it down. His tune seems to give him a bit of confidence, his hooves not shaking as much. Finally as he begins to shine the blade, Khenal feels a presence behind him.
"And how exactly, did you get here Khenal? If you broke something"
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 04:22:13 am
"Hello Midnight. I'm here with supervision. Meet Falcata, my Captain and friend."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 04:32:55 am
Midnight bows slightly to Falcata.
"I hope Heiro didn't bother you, he can get... ah but nevermind, I do apologize for the status of things, but please stay as long as you like."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 08:33:10 am
"Thank you, Midnight. Don't worry, Heiro hasn't done anything to bother me. We're both just concerned for him."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 10:39:37 am
"I see, thank you, he could use more ponies who care about him." Midnight looks around at the destroyed field, "It appears we had some... less pleasant company as well. Allow me to make this place more comfortable."
Midnight focuses, and the sky starts to clear, the sun beginning to shine through onto the clearing. then the tree begins to glow, and bursts into bloom! The energy radiates outward, restoring the grass, returning the field to it's normal state.
"There, much better" Midnight starts breathing a bit harder at the exertion, but seems satisfied.
"Midnight?" Heiro runs over to his big sis, dragging the axe behind him. "You're back! I fixed up your axe for you!"
Midnight takes the axe and returns it to her sling "I saw, thank you Heiro." She gives him a small hug. "Now how about you go play over there, I think these two will want to talk to me."
"Okay, we can talk some later," Heiro starts to walk away. "now that you're back everything's perfect."
As Heiro runs off to play, Midnight turns back to the others. "Well I'm sure you have questions, go ahead and ask, we have plenty of time, and I don't get a chance to talk to other ponies much."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 11:26:37 am
"Very well... if you don't me asking so, who are you?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:13:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 01:44:10 pm
'Woah, she's huge.'
"Midnight, why does Heiro still think of himself as a colt?"
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 01:49:53 pm
"And you say he calls you his big sis... but, you're not his sister at all... right?" , she asks, cocking her head slightly.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 01:56:51 pm
She turns to Khenal "I was expecting that question. It has to do with why I am here, and Heiro's past. I will tell you about it if you wish, but are you sure you wish to know?"
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 04:10:49 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 04, 2012, 04:13:02 pm
name: jaxler
gender: male
And make him look as evil as possible... and winged... but mostly evil.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 04:42:47 pm
"Heiro was just a colt at the time, younger even then your Kris, Falcata, so he did what young colts do, he hid. Unfortunately, not well enough."
"Two Diomedians found him, a Keshi and a Shadowbolt, and were discussing how they were going to kill him, when a guardspony, a mare, ran in and attacked the two. The Keshi was struck down, but it managed to get a mortal wound on the guard in the melee. The Shadowbolt assumed he had won, and went to gather more of his group to finish Heiro. Unfortunately for him, even as a colt Heiro was powerful. He grabbed the fallen mare's axe and struck down the Shadowbolt, I don't think he even saw it coming."
"Taking the axe Heiro ran to his house, and hid in his room, holding the axe like a stuffed animal. That is where I was born, I wasn't much then, just a fragment, a protector for the colt who needed somepony to guard him."
Midnight pauses for a moment, seeming to have trouble keeping her composure. "Poor colt, he got to watch his entire village burn to the ground, everypony he knew killed... By the following day, the raiders had left, and I managed to whisper to Heiro that he should as well, there was nothing left for him there. He took only one thing from that village, I think you've seen it."
"Ah but you asked a simple question, and I got caught up in memories. I am the only one who knows of Heiro's story, it feels... nice to tell somepony else. If you can help him, I will assist you however I can."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 04:53:12 pm
But what could they do to help Heiro? Was bringing Midnight back enough? Would he even want to be free of needing her?
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 05:51:40 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 04, 2012, 05:57:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 04, 2012, 06:01:04 pm
"Of course! It'd be downright rude to come here and then leave without saying goodbye."
Post by: Telgin on January 04, 2012, 06:09:51 pm
"Yes, where did he go?" Falcata looks away from the ruined town back to Midnight.
Post by: PawPrint on January 04, 2012, 11:24:31 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:31:20 pm
Spoiler: New Ponies Inside (click to show/hide)
((Okay, I'm starting a new scene. Friesden is in the Hospital, injured, Charity hears about this, and goes to visit her. Things will probably get awkward. I'll imagine this is happening while the other scene in Heiro's mind plays out. Any pony who want's to get involved may do so, but try not to be disruptive.))
Charity sits in her office, looking over the mountain of paper work. She sees amongst it all the report form from Dr. Bubbles for today. "Friesden's checked in?" She mummbles aloud. "I haven't talked to her since the trial, and before that not since she was arrested. I...I should visit her."
The Duchess get's her things, grabs her cloak, and heads to the hospital.
Post by: Dsarker on January 04, 2012, 11:34:32 pm
The smile drops a bit as she remembers Khenal still isn't there, but it stays strong. He said he would be back, and she knows that he is perfect.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:36:43 pm
"How are you doing today?" She asks, a twinge of nervousness in her voice.
Post by: Dsarker on January 04, 2012, 11:39:10 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:42:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 04, 2012, 11:45:06 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:47:37 pm
"uh. He, who? I'm sorry I haven't read the doctor's reports on you yet, just came down as soon as I heard."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 04, 2012, 11:48:02 pm
Starkey stands up, examining the hellscape around him.
'Well this is positively charming. Helloooo? Somepony? Anypony?'
'...Schmoe?'
Post by: Dsarker on January 04, 2012, 11:48:31 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:52:13 pm
"Khenal? So how'd that happen? He trip and fall on you, or..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 04, 2012, 11:54:24 pm
Post by: The Master on January 04, 2012, 11:58:33 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 04, 2012, 11:58:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:00:12 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:01:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 12:01:36 am
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 12:04:25 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:05:46 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:07:06 am
"I'm sorry, Heiro, but we have to go. Your sis is here again though, and she'll look after you. We're always nearby if you need us though, don't doubt that."
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:07:16 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:08:28 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:09:55 am
Charity remains suspicious, but her trust for Khenal is also old and strong. She isn't sure what she believes anymore.
"So, getting married. You must be excited about that, hmm. Planning a big party?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 12:11:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:11:48 am
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 12:13:24 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:14:30 am
he shuffles his hooves a bit "Do you really have to leave? You'll come back right?"
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:16:57 am
"I'll see what I can do about that," she answers truthfully. "But, yes, I'm afraid we have to go. Khenal has somepony he needs to go see soon. And we'll come visit any time you want."
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:19:26 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 12:21:59 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:22:24 am
"I'd like to apologize to you, for kind of pressuring Khenal back into service to Glitterglen. I realize you love him very much and that him constantly being in the line of fire must be stressful. But he's one of the best fighters in Glitterglen, and there is almost no pony I would more trust to do his job."
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:24:39 am
The smile turns to sadness. "It's...it's why I work in the hospital, now...maybe...maybe I can save him if he gets hurt. Repay him for all that he's done for me...do you know he saved my life almost two weeks ago? Again...I'm not sure how I could repay him any more."
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 12:24:53 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:26:22 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:26:58 am
She closes her eyes and feels for the magical aura that signified the link between the three of them. She just had to... cut it, somehow? How would she do that? Well, she'd failed to do fairly simple mental magic so far, but this at least didn't seem like it could go wrong. She reaches out with her magic and feels something... not what she expects...
In an instant, Khenal and Heiro feel their consciousnesses ripped in a direction they didn't know existed. When they come to, the find themselves in what appears to be a dank crypt. Coffins line the walls, and an exit can be seen at the far end of the crypt. Falcata stands inside the exit, dazed.
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:27:25 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:28:04 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:32:49 am
"Who...where are we?" I ask, still a bit woozy from the unexpected change in scenery.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:34:49 am
((I'm assuming that Charity has already learned of Falcata's recovery here, and that yes, while I know that Friesden did what she did for Falcata because she thought she was worthless, Charity hasn't connected those dots yet.))
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:36:19 am
Her eyes snap open and she begins backing in circles, staring at the scenery. "No... no... no-no-no, we shouldn't be here!"
"We shouldn't be here! I-I've got to get out!" She looks to the exit behind her and bolts through it.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:37:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:38:50 am
I follow my words with action, rushing after Falcata.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:41:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 12:42:52 am
Starkey looks on with dawning horror as he realizes where he is.
'N-No... not here... why did you bring me here?'
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:45:26 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:45:48 am
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 12:47:48 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:48:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:49:22 am
"Falcata! If this is your mind, you need to calm down! Heiro and I could be in trouble if you don't!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 12:51:49 am
((I've got to go to bed now. Busy day tomorrow. Dsarker, feel free to wrap up the scene any which way you like, or you can leave it, and we'll finish it another time.))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 12:52:54 am
He slowly sinks to his haunches.
'Don't make me... remember...'
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 12:53:50 am
"So... you've come," the skeleton says in an echoing masculine voice.
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 12:53:57 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:55:17 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 12:56:12 am
"Careful Heiro. We don't want to harm Falcata, and it may not be hostile." I didn't really believe it'd be friendly, but minds can be strange.
"Who are you?"
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 12:57:14 am
The "ruins" of glitterglen appear before Starkey, and the "corpse" of "none other" than "Lilac" lying at his feet.
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 01:01:14 am
It continues toward them slowly, stepping into the soft lighting of the torches on the walls. As its bones cross into the light, flesh returns to it, revealing a unicorn stallion. His white fur and black mane are blurred slightly by a soft golden glow, and a small smile forms on his face. "She hasn't told anypony at Glitterglen about me. I am Estoc, Falcata's husband."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 01:02:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 01:03:16 am
He bends down, taking the limp form of his daughter into his hooves.
'Lilac... my little Lilac... she was so strong. She held on for so long... she was still warm... when Ochre and Aly found me... she was still warm...'
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 01:07:26 am
"I am Khenal, and this is Heiro. Do... you know why Falcata would panic at being here?"
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 01:10:10 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 01:13:38 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 01:15:05 am
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 01:20:04 am
Starkey notices a door partially open, with the "limp" form of "Charity" keeping it from closing properly. Lying slumped against the door, with an arrow in his chest, is Khenal.
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 01:20:22 am
His vision turns to Khenal. "She would prefer that." His expression changes to a frown. "However, I am beginning to grow concerned for her. There are things here that she would never show anypony, and I fear that it may be... significantly to her detriment to continue doing so. Perhaps even cost her life. It nearly has already."
He pushes past them toward the collapsed exit. "I cannot force you to stay. But, if you would... there are some things I would like to show you. Both of you."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 01:22:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 01:26:37 am
"I agree, Heiro. Mr. Estoc, I would like to see whatever you have to show, as long as it will not cause harm to Falcata to do so."
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 01:28:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 01:33:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 01:39:22 am
Starkey rushes to Khenal's side, propping him up.
'I-I never saw him fall. He went back down to the infirmary... he said Doctor Bubbles needed help moving the wounded to safety, but... I knew why he wanted to be there. That was the last time I saw him. You made it out, didn't you lad? Please, if anypony made it out of there, it had to be you. Tell me he made it!'
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 01:40:05 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 01:45:41 am
He leads them through another doorway into a large room with a vaulted ceiling. It could have passed for a cathedral, if it wasn't for the lack of religious symbols decorating the walls. Instead, massive skeletons of ponies are built into the supports, holding up the immensity of it. A number of wings branch out from the room, some doors are shut and barred, others open but leading to impenetrable blackness. Others still are open and bright.
He pauses at the center of the room.
"Now... where to begin..."
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 01:47:24 am
Khenal's head drops.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 01:48:10 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 01:53:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:01:19 am
Starkey lifts Khenal's head, trying in vain to slap him awake.
'Khenal? Khenal! Oh, Luna, spare him, pass him by, please! Not him!'
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 02:02:20 am
"The duchess... I believe she is the only pony that even knows this much... but Falcata and I used to be city guards in Coupledye. Three years ago."
The hallway abruptly ends in the center of a town, deserted in the wee hours of the morning. A massive bloody gash forms at the base of Estoc's skull, and immediately his mane and neck are covered in blackened congealed blood. He beckons them to follow him to an alley behind a storefront.
"I lost my life this night."
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:05:46 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 02:10:02 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:13:16 am
'She was with me...'
He is numb. Too numb even for tears.
'Every step, every blow, she was with me. She never left my side... until the very end.'
He bends down, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. Hemoves to her neck to retrieve something, but finds only air.
'Her necklace.'
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:15:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:18:41 am
Starkey rises, staring straight into Vance's eyes.
'She never went anywhere without it.'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 02:19:39 am
Heiro continues to follow, Serious as he can get.
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:21:15 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 02:24:35 am
Time leaps ahead several days, and ponies are beginning to mill around them, oblivious to their presence. A faint trace of the blood stains the cobblestones beneath them. Estoc beckons them toward a small shop, where shouts can be heard.
"Three days later, after I was long buried, Falcata found out who killed me. The first step in a series of events that she hasn't forgiven herself for."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:31:21 am
'You never showed me Friesden. I would have remembered my eldest daughter's fate.'
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:33:58 am
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 02:35:43 am
Estoc looks away from the scene with a grimace. "His name was Slim Pickings. A long time thief in Coupledye. He'd stolen more than he'd earned in his life, ten times over, but it was rarely anything large at one time and he'd been in jail dozens of times since I joined the guard. Still, he'd never been violent."
The thief chuckles again. "Yeah, a little bit. I told you I killed him. He was about to catch me, and to be frank, I'm getting a bit tired of you guards getting in the way all the time. So, I decided to make sure he'd never bug me again." The pony stands and leers over the table. "The funny part is, that I just told you all of this, but there's not a thing you can do! You can't prove it, and I'll deny it all day long in court." He grins again.
Falcata's expression contorts into primal rage. Estoc looks away again.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 02:38:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:40:10 am
'My sisters never ran a caravan through the Failed Jungles. The highway to the north is faster.'
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:41:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 02:54:05 am
'I'm sorry Mister Vance, but your story just doesn't add up. I don't think you're being entirely honest with me.'
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 02:54:18 am
Without wasting a moment, she draws her sword and jumps after him, heedless of the cuts ripped across her limbs by the glass. "You! Estoc was protecting innocent ponies." She drives the sword into his chest and twists it completely around, spurting blood everywhere. Ponies flee in terror, screaming for guards. She withdraws the weapon and stabs it into him again and again, ignoring the fact that he has long stopped resisting. "And! You! Killed! Him!"
Eventually satisfied with the carnage she has wrought, Falcata collapses onto her haunches, gasping for air. Her expression finally relaxes from a scowl to a confused glare as guards arrive and begin inspecting the scene.
Estoc hangs his head.
"She was arrested on the spot. Although she was taken to jail, Captain Bardiche knew us well and sided with her. The count of murder was dropped to ponyslaughter. She was to be suspended for two months, and would serve two weeks in jail. The minimum mandatory sentences."
He beckons for them to follow again, leading them through a doorway which appears to lead nowhere.
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 02:56:31 am
Vance struggles in vain against Starkey's grip, then sighs.
'Well, could be worse...I could be you!'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 02:57:05 am
Post by: Khenal on January 05, 2012, 03:01:41 am
'I would do no less if somepony murdered Friesden...'
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 03:09:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 03:15:22 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 03:18:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 03:23:29 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 03:26:30 am
Ropes spring from the wall, neatly hogtying Vance.
'Deal with him for me. I don't really care how, just... clean up after yourself when you're done.'
Post by: The Master on January 05, 2012, 03:28:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 03:44:13 am
With a wave of one of Schmoe's appendages, the long dormant white blood cells in Vance's 'body' come to life. At first, the slurry of disease in his 'bloodstream' holds its own, but every second the white blood cells change and adapt. Become stronger. Soon, the diseases begin to die off. The immune system, with no other target, begins to turn on the other cells, destroying them in a fury to become pure. They grow, and multiply. And mutate. The body begins to die. But even as it does, Tzeentchian power comes upon them, and they begin to adapt. The body fights itself in a bitter struggle to survive. Entire colonies of cells destroy each other in a frenzy of growth and mutation. The body collapses into puddles of cannibalistic cells, and Schmoe looks on in glee.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 05, 2012, 03:52:47 am
'Right... just remember, clean up after yourself. I don't want... Vance everywhere. I need to wake up now.'
At once, Starkey vanishes from the mindscape. As he does so, he quietly stirs in his bed.
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 11:51:31 am
"She doesn't blame herself for my death. Not anymore, at least," Estoc says to his company, the bloody wound on his head vanishing as quickly as it came.
The three arrive in what appears to be a jail. The same that they passed through on the way from the crypt, save the absence of the two pony skeletons against the wall. Inside a cell just ahead of them is Falcata again, curled up on what passed for a bed. Her eyes are pink from incessant crying, but she is silent, staring off into the wall ahead of her.
"But she does blame herself for this."
The sounds of a hushed conversation can be heard down the hallway, accompanied by the scuffing of hooves against bare stone floors. Two ponies slink into the jail block and stand near the bars of Falcata's cell. She looks up.
"What... how did you get in here? What do you want?"
The taller of the two grins and leans on the bars. "We broke in. Wanted to come pay you a visit for what you did to our friend." He glowers at her. "We don't take too kindly to having our friends killed off, you see?"
The stockier of the two nods. "Yeah, we heard what you did to Slim Pickings. Butchered him like an animal... you'd best watch out, sister... this is our city."
Her expression darkens and she stands. As she approaches the cell bars, she says, "You don't scare me. What are you going to do? Break in here and 'teach me a lesson?'"
"Oh, no, killing you wouldn't send the right message..." The tall pony grins again. "You've got a filly, I hear? Staying with your brother on the other side of town while you wait off your slap on the hoof?" The two intruders exchange mischievous glances. "You took somepony from us... maybe we should take somepony from you?"
Falcata's eyes snap open and a grim scowl returns to her face. "Leave her out of this... Kris hasn't done anything to you..."
"Uh huh..." the stocky pony says, smirking as he sees the response they're getting. "What do you think? She's just what, six months old? Guess we could just toss her in the river."
"Yeah... it would be painless, and nopony would ever find the body." The tall pony smiles at Falcata. "I can hear it now, 'Guard pony snaps, murders citizen and own daughter.'"
Falcata's eyes narrow and she props up against the bars in their faces. "Leave her alone... or... or..." she says through bared teeth.
"Or what? You're stuck in there," the short pony retorts, making a motion to his associate. "C'mon, let's go."
Estoc points to his horn and says to Khenal and Heiro, "A unicorn doesn't need their hooves to hurt somepony. The jail was magically shielded, but she worked there. She knew the bypass harmonics." He motions for the three of them to step aside.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 12:22:07 pm
'Six months, just a foal... sis if we ever find anypony like these two, I want you to give the raider control. You would hold back too much...'
'In this case I think I would make an exception. That is an unforgivable act, even to threaten it is... No, I don't think you would have to worry about me holding back at all.'
Post by: Telgin on January 05, 2012, 03:45:26 pm
"Oh, temerity? That's a big word, who are you trying to im-ACK!" the tall pony's sentence was cut off as both were snatched by the throat and pinned against the wall where Estoc, Khenal and Heiro once stood. A clearly visible violet magical haze surrounds her horn and their throats as she rears up on the bars again.
"If you go near my family, I'll hunt you down and slaughter you like the animals you are!" she screams at them, tightening her magical grip.
They claw at their throats, and the tall pony manages to gasp, "We... weren't... going... to... just... trying to... scare..."
Eventually her magical grasp falters, not from spent rage so much as lack of strength, and the two ponies collapse against the wall. Her grip was gone, but the damage was done. Time lurches forward again, and both suffocate from crushed airways, ending in the positions of the skeletons that the trio passed when leaving the crypt. Falcata backs away from the scene, a horrified look on her face. She finally collapses in the center of the cell and buries her face in her hooves, but there are no tears left to cry.
Estoc steps through the bars to her and nuzzles her, an ineffectual gesture as he passes effortlessly through her.
"There was no escaping what was to come," he says, looking up to them. "Even Captain Bardiche wasn't able to forestall the punishment. Three counts of ponyslaughter in as many days. Nopony higher up in the command structure trusted her anymore, and the citizens were terrified of her.
"The decision was to banish her to Glitterglen. Her brother Dirk and sister Kukri offered to watch Kris instead of send her to Glitterglen too, but it wasn't safe for her in Coupledye any longer. Falcata decided to bring her along, where at least she could be responsible for her."
Estoc steps back toward the doorway from which they entered and says, "This is where your experiences begin to mingle. Perhaps it is enough context for me to show you what it is I wanted to show you... but, I think there are two more events that would help further. If you would listen."
((I'll leave it up to you two. I sort of feel like I'm rambling here, so if you want to get on with it Estoc will happily see you to the end of your little trip.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 05, 2012, 04:23:02 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 07:10:09 pm
"I...I guess I'm just as worthless as I thought. I'm sorry. I just get everything wrong, don't I?"
((Continuing from last night. Included the quote since the last bit of this is buried under several pages.))
"Friesden, are you even listening to yourself? How are you worthless? You've become one of the most important ponies in town. For one, you're the only surgeon. When Cornbread cracked his spine in the last fight, you were the only pony who knew how to help him. And because of you he'll probably be able to walk again. And should Khenal or Falcata or Madush or Osal any of the others get seriously hurt, you're the one that they'll be counting on. How are you worthless?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 07:11:58 pm
"I'm sorry...I'm always wrong, aren't I?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 07:18:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 07:19:48 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 07:23:44 pm
"... Oh. Alright then. I have nothing that needs doing for awhile. I can stay a bit longer."
Charity returns to her seat.
"So, then, what should we talk about?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 07:24:47 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 07:32:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 05, 2012, 07:34:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 07:54:31 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 05, 2012, 08:49:33 pm
((Secondly I apologize for the double post. I only do so, so that those watching the thread will know that new things of significance have been posted.))
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
((The following events take place after the conclusions of the currently ongoing scenes.))
Charity's Journal 18th Slate, 100
Starkey and myself were both down in the arena. He was preparing to interrogate the Diomeidian prisoner. When suddenly, we heard a cry go up from the deep. Our scouts had spotted something fierce.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Spos%20Stasnoanu.png)
Charity's Journal 19th Slate, 100
The militia has set up a full defense of the fortress at the cavern gates. They are waiting for the beast to come to them, as others have before. Nicolta Telsa, was out in the caverns, setting up one of our new Giant Cave Spider traps when he spotted the monster heading straight for Glitterglen. He dropped his work, sounded the alarm. He barely managed to out run the lumbering behemoth.
The fight was long, but not particularly difficult for the ponies of Glitterglen. First, our great markspony Osal Habithare, shot the creature in the lung before it got within 10 yards of any of our ponies. Then the militia pounced on the monster; hacking, biting, breaking, burning. Until the beast fell, and young Peytrel, saw a chance to run forward, he gave the beast a pommel strike to it's chest knocking the wind from his one remaining lung, and then while it was stunned cutting the beasts head from it's body in one swing. And not a single pony was struck in the entire battle.
I don't think I've ever scene Starkey look so proud of them all.
Charity's Journal 23rd Slate, 100
Starkey questioned the Diomedian prisoner, but it was obvious that he wouldn't talk, and he wasn't about to torture anything out of him. Naturally we where once again in the situation where we couldn't let him go, but keeping him locked up forever wasn't practical. So once again, Starkey, with my blessing, offered the thief a chance to fight for his life, in single combat with Commander Starkey. It wasn't a fair fight, Starkey is stronger, better trained, and better equipped, but it still felt better than just executing the pony. The fight was short and won't bother describing it, suffice it to say that Starkey won quite easily.
Edited for clarification.
Edited due to objections to previous version.
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 01:55:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 02:16:39 am
"Mmm... Friesden? Are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 02:17:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 02:19:30 am
He notices the cast on her wing.
"Oh, Friesden... what happened to your wing?"
Post by: Khenal on January 06, 2012, 02:20:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 02:20:53 am
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 02:26:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 02:31:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 02:32:36 am
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 02:32:57 am
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 02:35:10 am
As Khenal and Heiro follow him, they find themselves atop Glitterglen's tower. A wisp of cold wind catches them as the world becomes lucid again. Falcata is standing at the edge of the tower, staring down to the ground far below, periodic whimpers passing her lips. Estoc steps up behind her.
"This is something that she has told nopony but Friesden. Two days after reaching Glitterglen, Falcata nearly took her own life."
Falcata backs away from the edge and slumps to the floor, and frustrated frown on her face. "I... can't do it... I'm too much of a coward..."
Estoc hangs his head and turns to face Khenal and Heiro. "Thank Luna she didn't. There were two reasons she decided not to go through with it... Kris being the first and foremost. To leave her here alone would be unthinkable." A ghostly apparition of Kris appears next to her father for an instant before vanishing. Estoc looks up and points to Khenal. "The second reason, was you, Khenal."
Post by: Khenal on January 06, 2012, 02:39:39 am
"Wait, what? Me?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 02:48:09 am
'No. Stop right there. Khenal is a good lad, and he's absolutely infatuated with Friesden. He'd never do anything like that.'
"I... remember I took a look at your bandages. It looked like you'd pulled some stitches. Has the doctor seen to that?"
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 02:51:12 am
He cringes as Falcata stands along the edge, nearly loses her footing and scrambles back to safety with a startled cry. "She was absolutely lost in depression... having lost me, nearly losing her daughter, never being able to see her old friends or family again...
"She joined the guard for two reasons. First, it was what she was best at. Second, she thought in a place like this, it would only be a matter of time before she was killed. A short time."
Falcata hangs her head and backs away from the edge. "Bucking coward... why... why can't I do it..."
"But, then she met you, Khenal." Estoc watches Falcata pace the tower for a few moments before returning his eyes to Khenal. "She was convinced that there was nothing here for her but an untimely end among strangers and enemies. You were the opposite of what she expected... a friendly, welcoming pony that did everything he could to help the ponies under his command.
"After just a few days of working with you, she changed her mind and decided that Glitterglen was worth fighting for. Worth living in. If you could come here and make good of it, so could she." He smiles. "She really looks up to you, you know. Moreso than anypony in Glitterglen. You may have saved her life."
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 02:52:45 am
Post by: Khenal on January 06, 2012, 03:02:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 03:12:00 am
Starkey prepares to climb out of bed...
And promptly drops back down to his pillow. A two-foot drop should not give you vertigo! Did he get a concussion? Is that why there's a big gap around this afternoon?
"Okay, bad idea. Just... check your bandages, please? She would have changed them anyway, and if she found any pulled stitches, she would have fixed that."
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 03:17:56 am
Falcata stands from her heap in the center of the tower and begins to mope down the stairs, muttering about being a coward the entire way. Estoc watches her go and looks to Khenal and Heiro. "Perhaps we should move on, I think my intentions will become more clear soon."
He leads them down the stairs, which transition somehow to the caverns instead of the fortress like they should have.
The air is cold and damp as always, and the sounds of creatures skittering about in the dark echo to their ears. Falcata is standing guard at her post, still equipped with her fortress guard barding and hammer. A pained expression covers her face, which fades as she dozes off while standing. After a moment a chilling gust of air sweeps past, jostling her awake. She shakes her head in frustration and blinks to fight the grogginess before lifting her previously broken leg from the ground with a pained whimper.
"This... is the part that hurts me the most..." Estoc says, bringing the group to halt in front of her.
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 03:18:21 am
Friesden gingerly runs her hoof along the bandages, and stops short. She flinches, and withdraws the hoof.
"Owowowowowowowowow. Ow."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 03:21:52 am
"Oh, Friesden... I don't think it should hurt like that. Doctor? Are you here?"
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 03:22:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 03:34:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 03:44:27 am
"Friesden..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 03:56:39 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:03:49 am
"Stop... just... just stop... tearing yourself down. Do you have... any idea... how much it hurts to hear you talk about yourself like that?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:05:24 am
"Maybe it would have been best if my father had killed me...I wouldn't have hurt you all like I have. You'd have been able to go on through your lives...happy...without me."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:12:01 am
My Friesden... my little pony...
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:13:02 am
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 04:14:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:16:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:18:27 am
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 04:21:28 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:22:13 am
Starkey notices the blood staining Friesden's bedsheets.
"Friesden... are you..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:23:01 am
She turns to the sheets and screams.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:26:54 am
"It's not you, hun. Where is... it..."
He trails off as his eyes fallow the stream of blood to the next bed over, and the occupant.
"Otik! Sisters, DOC-TOOOR!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:29:33 am
"Oh Sisters oh Sisters oh Sisters oh Sisters oh Sisters oh Sisters!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 04:52:03 am
'O-Okay... find and note all wounds... rate in order of severity...'
A little Cap'n barks out orders in his head. His hooves do their best to follow.
"Night Sister, pass her by... seal thy gates this night..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 04:55:37 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 05:14:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 05:19:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 05:27:57 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 05:35:38 am
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 01:18:11 pm
Estoc steps back from his wife and looks to Khenal and Heiro. "Forgive me if this sounds intrusive or is too personal... but have either of you been in a situation where you thought you would die?" He looks to Heiro. "From what I've just learned from you, I suspect that you have." He glances over to Khenal. "And you've been in the militia and guard for some time, I suspect the same for you."
((Actually not sure about Khenal, has he ever even been injured in an ambush, siege or megabeast attack? If nothing else I'd think just facing the bronze colossus would be pretty frightening. He did partake in that, right? A few FBs if not.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 06, 2012, 01:42:11 pm
Although, I didn't mention this. I stationed the Royal Guard near a wall during the last Forgotten beast fight. Falcata, Madush, and Osal were outside in the cavern, but Khenal decided to hide in the prison cell on the other side of the wall. I considered writing about that, but decided not to because it was so out of his character, that I just accepted it as a quirk of DF and said nothing about it. Additionally, it seems that in almost every ambush when I call out Khenal's squad he's got the job "Pickup-Gear" until conveniently just after the fight.
In other news, I noticed that a few of our militia ponies have earned titles.
Commander Starkey Spreadstyles the North Depth.
Peytral Secretwaxes the Equal Ways
and
Ramol Weathercook the Sad Evenness of Lathering (You may remember him as the pony who broke ranks and then routed the Diomedian ambush single hoofedly.)
I didn't exactly know how to work those into a journal entry, but here they are.))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 06, 2012, 02:15:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 06, 2012, 03:56:45 pm
'That I would die? The colossus, the cave troll, so many fights where I know I could die, but not the certainty that I would. After the asylum, I wanted to die, but...'
I simply hang my head, unable to imagine the pain that Falcata must have been going through.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 06, 2012, 04:47:51 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 05:39:25 pm
Estoc nods gravely at Heiro's words and takes in Khenal's grim expression. "Indeed, Heiro. You know how it feels then... the knowledge that the next moment may never come. Now, imagine that feeling sticking in the back of your mind for days... weeks... months. Never quite going away."
He looks away from her as another pained expression flickers across her face and she lets out a drawn out moan. "She endured that silently and alone for many months." He winces as she finally gives in and vomits on the cavern floor, more blood than anything else spattering onto the stone. "And all needlessly."
As Falcata steps away wearily to find something to remove the mess, the caverns fade away into blackness, leaving the three suspended over nothingness. Friesden slowly becomes visible before them, and Estoc steps toward her. "I'll do it," Friesden says, standing erect and without fear.
Estoc smiles at her and nods. "If Falcata hadn't kept it bottled inside her, Dr. Bubbles and Dr. Friesden could have saved her months of agony."
((No idea if Heiro or Khenal have anything to say to that, so I'll double post the next scene in a while if nobody else posts anything.))
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 07:51:35 pm
27. Male pegasan spearpony
and name him Jaxler))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 06, 2012, 09:00:34 pm
i want to claim the:
27. Male pegasan spearpony
and name him Jaxler
((Um, Jaxler you already asked for a pony here, and I already gave you one. He's the Male Pegasas Ranger (as your only requirements were Male and Winged, I choose one randomly. You also asked him to look "evil" but I can't exactly control that.) from the last migrant wave, that I drafted into the Skyguard, named him Jaxler as per your request. Do you want me to change it to the spearpony or keep it as is?))
I'll repost his picture below so you don't have to go looking for that one post that I put him in.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Jaxler.png
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 09:07:34 pm
i want to claim the:
27. Male pegasan spearpony
and name him Jaxler
((Um, Jaxler you already asked for a pony here, and I already gave you one. He's the Male Pegasas Ranger (as your only requirements were Male and Winged, I choose one randomly. You also asked him to look "evil" but I can't exactly control that.) from the last migrant wave, that I drafted into the Skyguard, named him Jaxler as per your request. Do you want me to change it to the spearpony or keep it as is?))
I'll repost his picture below so you don't have to go looking for that one post that I put him in.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Jaxler.png
((oh me is being derp I is sarrz.))
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 09:18:07 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 09:21:09 pm
((could you, uh...USE CORRECT SPELLING?))
((I did it on Purpose, in order to emphasize the derp
WAIT I looked up my guy's specs and, HE LOVES UNICORN MILK.... does that make him a pervert ))
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 09:28:28 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 09:30:39 pm
((First of all, use (())s IF YOU'RE NOT ROLEPLAYING. Second, get your mind out of the gutter.))
((sarry I was unaware. and im not in the gutter im just Concerned for poor lil pony Jaxler.))
Post by: PawPrint on January 06, 2012, 09:40:38 pm
((Add on: Is there anything I need to know besides post on wall, and no demonic possessions?))
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 10:42:33 pm
Estoc looks up to Heiro before shifting his gaze to Khenal. "That was how I feared we would meet, Khenal. I feared she would attempt to kill herself, and only then would others become aware that something was wrong. It was unlikely still, but if there was a time to see her thoughts, that would be it. I am glad it never came to that."
He smiles again, and around them the darkness disappears, replaced by the massive vaulted ceiling of the mausoleum. "I... feel that perhaps you have seen enough. I think... maybe you will come to understand why I shown you these things." He turns to face one of the doors that was barred before, now open and free to enter. "There is one last thing I would like to show you... but I will leave it up to you." He looks back to them and says, "It... may be difficult for you... I know it would be difficult for Falcata. But, if you have any doubts on why I've shown you these things, perhaps it would help."
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 10:53:57 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 10:55:55 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 06, 2012, 11:03:09 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 11:03:48 pm
((It's quite complicated what's going on, I'm afraid. Read the first 20 or so pages, that will give you a good idea of who the main characters are. We can probably fill in the holes after that.))
((Oh how wonderful... I love these threads but I always come in after 10+ pages (in this case 440). I really need to find a thread that’s just starting out. But what is going on like RIGHT NOW with that pony wanting to kill her self))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 06, 2012, 11:07:50 pm
Post by: The Master on January 06, 2012, 11:16:30 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 06, 2012, 11:24:42 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 06, 2012, 11:36:53 pm
((To understand what's going on with Friesden, you pretty much have to start at the beginning and read all the way through. She's very complicated.))
(( 0_o can someone just water it down her back story. my attention span is only like an hour))
Post by: Dsarker on January 06, 2012, 11:40:12 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 06, 2012, 11:45:17 pm
((To understand what's going on with Friesden, you pretty much have to start at the beginning and read all the way through. She's very complicated.))
((^^This is pretty much true. Friesden has been a pivotal character in just about every junction of the fortress. Right now, she has recently had a daemon purged from her mind, come to grips with the fact that she's murdered ponies and is basically constantly on thin ice with soul consuming depression. Stuff like that. More or less business as usual around here.))
Estoc nods, but for once a smile doesn't form on his face. "It... won't harm her. I believe it will help her in the future... if she continues on as she has, I just don't know. I think this is the right thing to do..."
He motions for them to follow him through the previously barred door. The door leads to a long hallway, which in turn leads into an atrium branching into several further wings. He directs them to the leftmost hallway. The hallway eventually terminates into a large room filled with statues of ponies. Most of the ponies are unfamiliar, save Falcata, Kris and Estoc. "Her family," Estoc offers, waving a hoof at the collection of statues.
In the center of the room, two unicorn statues, a male and a female, are holding up a statue of Falcata, whose face bears profound sorrow. "Dirk and Kukri, her brother and sister. They were two of the few ponies who stood by her in her last days in Coupledye."
Surrounding the three are the statues of six older ponies, in pairs of male in female. "Her parents, grandparents..." Estoc continues, waving a hoof over the lot. "Me... and Kris," he finishes, pointing off to a lichen encrusted statue of himself behind Falcata, and a smaller, pristinely polished statue of Kris in front of her.
"She will never see any of them again, except for Kris."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 06, 2012, 11:51:20 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 12:21:18 am
((To understand what's going on with Friesden, you pretty much have to start at the beginning and read all the way through. She's very complicated.))
((^^This is pretty much true. Friesden has been a pivotal character in just about every junction of the fortress. Right now, she has recently had a daemon purged from her mind, come to grips with the fact that she's murdered ponies and is basically constantly on thin ice with soul consuming depression. Stuff like that. More or less business as usual around here.))
((well fuck... well now I haft to keep on reading...me es hopez her not kil mey pony. so is she in the militia or somthing?))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 12:24:18 am
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 12:24:58 am
((Nope, she used to be the chief medical pony, and is still the fort's only surgeon.))
((well thats Great, she's good with a knife. Also I think I know Exactly what my pony’s personality will be. also is my pony in love with anypony, if so plz bring said better half to a bridge and retract it.))
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 01:04:48 am
A short hallway opens into a massive room. The room is filled with statues of ponies, most of which are foreign to the onlookers. "Her acquiantances." Estoc leads them down an empty stretch in the center of the room. One side of the room is covered in a dark haze which slowly transitions to a golden bright at the far end. A massive statue of a male alicorn sits at the center of the bright side, gilt in gold and surrounded by statues of ponies in armor.
As they move along, Khenal and Heiro note a few faces they recognize. Slim Pickings is at the far corner of the dark side of the room, an sinister grin on his face. The other two thieves are right beside him.
In the center of the room, a short distance on the bright side are Lieutenant Otik and Lady Charity. Charity's statue appears to have been smashed apart at some point and put back together, and although it has a polished surface, smudges mar its surface in several places. Otik wears a glower on her face and appears to be shouting at somepony not present. Estoc stops briefly at the statues.
"By far the darkest moment in her history in Glitterglen. Falcata was one of guard tasked with handing out the beatings for violating Lady Charity's export ban. She reluctantly agreed, hoping to use her position of authority to make the punishment as lenient as possible. There was a revolt when it became clear why she was seeking out Thundersplinter... after the chaos had ended Thundersplinter was nearly dead. Falcata never forgave herself for accepting the order, nor has she completely forgiven Charity for ordering it."
He motions to the statues of Otik and Charity. "She's still a bit afraid of the two of them. Charity for the power she holds and the way she's used it in the past, although she is very grateful to her for what she's done for her. Otik... well, she was the one who rounded up the guard after the beatings. She wasn't happy that Falcata was one of the offending officers. I'll leave it at that."
Further along into the bright side, Dr. Bubbles can be seen, surrounded by the hospital staff, but Friesden is notably absent. Silver and gold chase Bubbles' features. To their side, Captain Starkey and some of the militia can be seen. Lilac stands alongside the crumbling statue of her father. A small golden statue of Commissar Anias Abel stands alone.
As they reach the bright end of the room, Khenal can see that the alicorn is none other than him. It is the largest statue in the room and the most ornately detailed. The statue is surrounded by statues of the fortress guard, both present and past. Heiro's statue sits slightly apart from them, hints of gold tracing his features, and a small figurine of Kris sitting on his base.
"I told you she looked up to you..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 07, 2012, 01:16:12 am
"Estoc, sir... This statue... does it mean... nevermind" Heiro quickly turns away from his statue, blushing slightly.
"She does look up to you, doesn't she Khenal... I wonder if anypony would ever think of me that way"
Post by: PawPrint on January 07, 2012, 01:22:06 am
The wood this tree would shed would be of inferior quality, unfit for the forges, or anything else you would want to be near, but something something about that laugh disturbed him.
Instead of a satisfying TWHACK that made Marble so content a sickly thud came in it's stead; and if you bothered to listen for that moment, minute, hour in time you would have been able to hear a voice muttering repeatedly, "I'm Marble, I'm Marble, I'm Marble." "
((HELLO, CRUEL WORLD!!!))
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 01:27:51 am
"No. No no no nonononono! That... that's not me! That can't be me! I'm... that can't be me! I don't deserve a gilded statue! I... I deserve... no! Please no! Not that! Anything but that! I... we need to go!"
My horn flashes as I sever the link, and I race back to reality and my own mind as quickly as I am able. Barely pausing to let my eyes focus, I stammer as I leave.
"I... sorry, I need to go. I promised Friesden I'd be back quickly. Sorry!"
I ricochet off the walls several times as I careen down the halls without taking the time to allow my eyes to adjust properly.
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 01:43:51 am
His face shifts to a frown as he looks up to Khenal's statue. "I made a terrible mistake... Khenal misunderstands... Falcata will be devastated if he turns against her for this..."
He lowers his head and looses a sigh. "No matter... you are still here, and there is one last thing I would show you. Please follow me." He leads Heiro through another door that opens beside them. The room hallway opens into another small room, filled with bright light. Several statues sit covered in tarps in the corners. In the center of the room is a single statue: Friesden.
"Her friends..." Estoc says in grim tone. He motions to the covered statues. "Old friends from Coupledye that she'll never see again. The only pony in Glitterglen that she believes thinks her a friend is Friesden."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 07, 2012, 01:56:36 am
"No it doesn't matter... I care for her, that's enough. If I can help... but I do have one question... Why was there a figurine of Kris next to my statue?
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 02:08:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 02:12:17 am
"Friesden is the only pony she has actually brought the matter up with directly. After saving her life and then revealing how upset she'd been, Falcata immediately took the opportunity."
He looks up slightly. "The figurine of Kris could mean several things. Kris is an important part of your relationship with Falcata, but I know nothing more..."
Estoc sits back on his haunches and shakes his head. "I've made a terrible mistake... I never should have shown Khenal... I should have known better..." he whispers under his breath.
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 02:19:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 02:20:05 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 07, 2012, 02:20:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 02:24:16 am
Head there, Jaxler.))
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 02:30:10 am
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 02:31:47 am
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 02:32:36 am
((http://mibbit.com/?channel=%23Glitterglen&server=irc.mibbit.net
Head there, Jaxler.))
((??? O noww i is get itz me is feel supar derpzilla))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 07, 2012, 02:34:39 am
Ironya's first foal Bubel, has reached the age of adulthood. Ironya has been dreading this day. Ours is a small village and there was no pony for him to apprentice himself to, and with our limited metal supplies we can't afford to train up a novice, even if he is Ironya's son. He's decided rather than live as a peasant or working in the fields, he want's to join the Fortress Guard. When she heard, Ironya had the largest strongest drink they'd let her buy and then rushed down to the forges to craft the very best weapon she could for her eldest son. A very fine steel spear, among the very best of her work.
28th Slate, 100
We nearly had a horrible accident today. Falcata had the day off from the Royal Guard, and was helping the engravers to earn a few extra bits. Meanwhile our miners had just finished digging out the room for our new garbage disposal system. However, when Falcata went to open the hole to the magma (draining from the magma moat in my tomb) the magma flowed too fast and she took a wrong turn and got cut off from the door.
Fortunately, somepony heard her yell, and pulled the lever to drop the Steel Floodgate to seal the room, and then ran for help. The miners arrived, and decided to try and dig a tunnel to the part of the room farthest from the magma's entrance.
It took several hours but when they arrived they saw Falcata, still alive. She'd climbed up on the narrow slit that the magma was draining through, she'd somehow stuck her fore hoof in the slit and held herself up there while her rear legs were wrapped around a sconce after removing the lit torch, in spite of the heat, and the hours of exhaustion she managed to hold on. When Grifen struck through the wall, he grabbed her and pulled her to safety. Then she was even able to walk out on her own. She has no burns at all. She's a very lucky pony.
11th Hematite, 100
Udur a weaponsmith that has been out of work since he moved here, took over one of the magma forges, and then took some adamantine without permission, along with some other material and created a crossbow from it. His work has certainly improved, I'm going to allow him to work the forges again.
The marksponies took a look at it and said it was an impossibly fine bow. Osal insisted his wooden one was better, said that the adamantine is too light, and that a bow needs weight to it. I'm no expert but it still shoots straight, and that seems most important to me. I'm not sure who to let use it. Otik would be the natural choice as she's a great shot and a captain, but well she has pointed a crossbow at me before and I don't know if I want to give her an even better weapon to possibly use against me should her coltfriend decide Duke Starkey the North Depths has a nice ring to it. I'll need to think about it. Maybe one of my friends will have a better idea, I'll ask what they think.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 07, 2012, 02:38:04 am
Heiro takes one last look around the room, his eyes slighly teary. "I-If I ever see this room again, it will be much more crowded, I'll make sure of it. Either way, I should probably leave, I don't know much about minds, so without Khenal here. How do I leave?"
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 02:44:28 am
Estoc vanishes partway down the hallway. Where he stood, Falcata appears. She looks around in a daze before her eyes settle on Heiro. "Sisters above..." she whispers to herself as she averts her gaze.
"How... how... much did you see?"
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 02:48:19 am
As I dash into the hospital, I screetch to a stop at the scene there. Instead of Friesden relaxing on her bed, I see Starkey frantically checking Otik, who appears to be bleeding quite profusely, while Friesden offers a chant to Luna.
"What's... what?!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 02:51:47 am
"Khenal! Thank Luna you're here! You have to know how to fix this!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 02:52:05 am
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 02:53:18 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 02:54:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 02:55:27 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 07, 2012, 02:55:52 am
Heiro looks about as if he's looking for somepony else to talk for him. "I care about you Falcata, and I hope you won't think less of me for looking, I just wanted to know..."
He moves closer "I won't tell anypony what I have seen if you don't want me to, I won't even mention it myself. But I do want you to know that I'm there if you need to talk. If you need anything, you or Kris..."
He blushes and looks away "B-but I-I'm just rambling now... I-I should go... Umm do you know how to send me back?"
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 02:57:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 02:58:45 am
"I....I don't...Oh, Sisters! What do I do?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 03:03:00 am
"S-So much... blood... she... Otik... m-my..."
Post by: Telgin on January 07, 2012, 03:13:39 am
Before Heiro can respond, her eyes snap open, all of the events that transpired in her mind solidifying as true memories in an instant. Estoc... Khenal and Heiro witnessing the murders... her attempted suicide... the statues. She gasps. "Khenal... oh no... no, no, no..."
She stands and looks to Heiro. "Yes... we should leave... before something else terrible happens. I think I can do that..." Her horn glows softly, and the world fades away into darkness.
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 03:18:27 am
"Um um um..."
'Keeper, back in the jail with Carrot, you said something about a transfusion. What is it?'
"In laypony's terms, you take somepony else's blood and put it into another pony."
"...What about a Transfusion? Would that help?"
Post by: jaxler on January 07, 2012, 06:03:51 pm
a pony whom only wants power, if your on his side then he's the kindest man in the world and will protect you, but if you stand in his way you won't have time to regret it. He sees a world of crap and wishes to make it better, though his way in doing so is a bit unorthodox. he hates alicorns with all his heart.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 08:03:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 09:08:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 09:20:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 09:32:14 pm
"Blood... you can... give her new blood..."
He rushes over to Khenal.
"Take mine. As much as she needs, as much as I can give! If it will help her, I'll give it!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 09:37:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 09:50:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 09:52:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 07, 2012, 09:53:26 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 10:07:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 10:09:40 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 07, 2012, 10:12:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 10:14:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 07, 2012, 11:57:01 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 12:18:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 12:20:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 12:24:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 12:25:33 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 08, 2012, 12:26:23 am
I have some friends in the militia and the guard. I wish to gift them some appropriate weapons. I have contacted Udur to forge a spear worthy of my friend Khenal. He requested to be allowed to use some of Glitterglen's precious adamant. I have allowed it. The first attempt was wonderful. It was grand, it was amazing, it wasn't good enough. Not for a friend of mine. I had it given to the militia, let one of the common soldiers use it, and I told him to try again.
The second one was hardly better than the last, yes the balance had been improved a smidgen, and yes it could still cut through steel, but it wasn't perfect. I paid him for the work and sent him back a third time. This second spear will be given out to the soldiers as well.
The third spear, yes it was perfect. It was quite simply the best a spear could be. I informed the metal crafters I expected them to decorate it with gold and sterling silver, without messing up the weapons performance. They are great craftsponies and should be able to do so.
Charity's Secret Journal 17th Hematite, 100
I was down in Crypt's Barracks working on some self-defense moves Crypt showed me, when I went into labor. My sixth child. He's an earthpony like his father, and we've named him Blue Diamond.
Charity's Journal 20th Hematite, 100
The smith's have finally finished the spear I'm going to give to Khenal. It's beautiful I can't wait to see his face when I give it too him.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/To%20Khenal%20From%20Charity.png)
((I was only going to add gold and silver to it, but then I looked at Khenal's in game information and saw he liked tin, so I thought "why not" and added some tin as well.))
((I would like to RP out this scene if that's okay with Khenal, I would also like for Falcata to be present in it as well.))
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Friesden%27s%20Party.png)
((I didn't write a journal entry for this, because I don't want to put words in Friesden's mouth, but in game I saw that Friesden threw a party. I thought that you might want to know about that. I also noticed that Charity attended it among several others.))
Charity's Journal 6th Malachite, 100
A new group of Migrants has come. Eight in total.
Female Earthpony, She worked as a pottery glazer before coming here. (Married to the Earthpony Peasant.)
Male Pegasan Doctor
Male Earthpony presser (He has some minor military experience, but the squads are overrun with new recruits already.) ((Every squad except Charity's Bodyguard has 10 members.))
Male Unicorn Miner (Married to the Pegasus Milker)
Male Pegasus Carpenter
Male Earthpony Animal trainer/fisherpony
Male Earthpony peasant. (Married to the Earthpony Glazer.)
Female Pegasus Milker (Married to the Unicorn miner.)
Charity's Journal 13th Malachite, 100
Our scouts have spotted a behemoth with the head of a bull and the body of a hairless female ape, following the river heading out of the jungle toward Glitterglen.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Minotaur%21.png)
While the rest of the militia was sitting tight and being wary, the Titan sat outside our walls and bellowed a challenge to anypony inside brave enough to face him. There was talk of swarming it with all our troops, which would have easily killed it, but our Commander Starkey ordered his stallions to stand down, and went out to fight it alone. The fight was spectacular, I am told, Starkey moved so fast, his axe flashed like lighting, and the monster couldn't even touch him. He won in seconds. After the fight I heard someponies saying that he even offered a prayer to Luna for the creature's soul.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Starkey%20Fights%20the%20Titan.png)
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 12:32:09 am
I heard Ironya's son Bubel is joining the fortress guard, now that he's old enough. I can understand his enthusiasm, but at the same time I have to wonder how Ironya feels about it. If Kris wanted to join the fortress guard, I don't think I'd be too happy. It's not really something I'm worried about her doing, but I don't think I could stand it if she got hurt, or Luna forbid killed.
I'm sure Bubel will be fine though, Ironya is an amazing smith, and I'm sure the equipment he gets will be unparalleled in quality.
26th Slate, 100
Today was pretty much my worst nightmare. Kris went down into the caverns on a dare from Lilac, and was attacked by a crundle. Corporal Heiro was stationed there, fortunately, and he killed the crundle before it could harm her, but something was wrong.
He was acting very strange, and asked for Khenal to come help him with something. Khenal and I ended up going into his mind to help him out, where I met Midnight. I'm still not sure what to make of that. Heiro seems well adjusted and friendly, and I really do have to thank him for helping Kris, but I'm worried about Midnight. I don't think Heiro, or Midnight for that matter, would ever do anytihng to hurt anypony. On purpose. What he might do accidentally, or if there is more wrong with him than appears at first glance, I don't know. And his colt-self in his head asked me to let him join me in the royal guard. That's not something I can just do, and I really don't know if I want to bring it up with the duchess. Heiro hasn't had much opportunity to prove himself yet, and I don't have a lot of evidence to back him up.
But that's not what was so bad. No, what was bad was I managed to buck up severing the mental link. If only Khenal hadn't asked me to do that. But he did, and I tried, and we all ended up in my head. I tried to sever it myself, but I couldn't. I really don't understand why the things that happened did. I'm not a mental magic expert, but I'm pretty sure the appearance of Estoc was my own mind willingly showing Khenal and Heiro my past and how I felt about everypony. That is the last thing I would have wanted, and the reason was pretty soon evident to Khenal. When he saw how much I looked up to him, he lost it and fled my mind.
Heiro at least seems to have taken it well, and he seems to be genuinely concerned for me. I helped him, I suppose, maybe he feels like he owes me. I don't know.
Regardless, I think I'll be hiding in my room for a long time. I don't think I can face either of them after what happened. And heaven help me if they tell anypony else. I don't think I have to worry about that, at least. Sisters, I'm such a foal. Why did this have to happen?
28th Slate, 100
Well, I almost died today. I've been helping the engravers the past few days, claiming that I was looking to earn a little extra money on the side, but the truth is I've been trying to avoid Khenal as much as possible. We've had to work together during training, of course, but that has been incredibly awkward. I sparred with him yesterday, and my heart was nowhere in it. I've got the bruises to prove it.
Anyway, I was down near the new garbage melting system helping out. I went to engage the magma drain, and I guess my mind was dwelling on what happened a few days ago, as it has been pretty much incessantly. I opened it too wide and nearly got caught in the flow. I ran as fast as I could, but there was nowhere to run, and I thought for sure I was going to die a horrible death, but at the last moment I managed to climb to safety. I can't express how grateful I am to whoever heard me, and Grifen managed to dig out an exit for me after a few hours. I could have kissed him, if it wasn't for the fact that I was absolutely exhausted.
I opted not to go to the hospital, despite the fact that my lungs still ache from breathing the hot air for so long. I've spent enough time in there, and now that Friesden works there again, it would only be a matter of time before Khenal came by to talk to her or something. I can't keep avoiding him like this, but I'll never forget that expression on his face when he saw the statue in my mind. He was horrified, and I fear talking to him would only make it worse.
It's still early in the afternoon, but I'm going to bed. I'm exhausted, mentally and physically.
11th Hematite, 100
Udur made an astonishingly well crafted crossbow today out of adamantine. I saw Osal take a shot with it, and the bolt struck true at an impressive distance. I'm not sure who Lady Charity will give it to, but I'd be proud to have it in our squad. Perhaps Otik would find better use for it though, it's not my call.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 12:42:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 12:44:31 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 12:47:44 am
"Please tell me all of that was just a dream..." she mumbles to herself.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 12:50:04 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 12:52:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 12:56:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 12:57:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 12:58:36 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 12:59:39 am
He walks over to Falcata and offers her a hoof, "I am sorry for looking at your memories. You need anything?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 01:06:18 am
He waves one of his many appendages, and a series of diagrams and instructions passes into Starkey's memory. Most of them refer to the transfusion, though there are some that have hints of the Rainbow to them.
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 01:11:27 am
Her eyes drift about slowly. "I don't know..." she mumbles.
She eventually looks up to Heiro. "Thank you for the offer... but I'm fine. I... I'll be fine. Just... try not to mention any of this to anypony else... I'd hate to upset somepony else..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 01:11:57 am
Starkey clears his throat.
"I... I know how. I'll need... a syringe, some tubing, and two needles."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 01:18:58 am
He looks into her eyes "I meant what I said, if you need anything, If Kris needs anything , just ask." He looks away again, trying to hide another blush. "E-even if you just want to talk..."
He looks back at her, hoping that he had said the right thing. The last thing he wanted was to drive Falcata off, but if she truly only thought she had one friend... he had to do something, anything to show that she wasn't alone.
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 01:20:17 am
"Will..will that be enough?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 01:26:34 am
Starkey begins to dictate instructions for a curious device to Khenal.
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 01:28:23 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 01:36:09 am
She lowers her head and places a hoof against her forehead. "I don't know..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 01:36:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 01:46:51 am
Friesden makes her way to the bed, wincing as her stitches pull taut, but carries on through the pain. She examines Otik's eye, wincing as the blood continues to come through.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 01:48:03 am
"Nopony threatens my family. Anypony that would use a foal as a tool of revenge doesn't deserve any pity. If I had been there..." He takes another breath.
"That was the past though, no point dwelling on it now." he places a hoof on Falcatas shoulder "You don't have to worry about me, or Khenal. Once he has a chance to calm down he'll say the same."
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 02:04:32 am
She hangs her head. "I regret bringing Kris with me quite often. I thought she would be safer with me, but I now wish I'd left her with Dirk or Kukri. I had no idea how dangerous Glitterglen would really be."
She blows out her breath. "And I really hope you're right about Khenal... he... he looked so horrified... that... was the last thing I ever wanted to happen. At least I didn't upset you."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 02:19:20 am
Heiro gives Falcata a small hug "You worry too much, everything will be fine, you'll see."
He smiles a bit, "I have an idea, how about we go and find Kris, I want to see how she's doing. If you're OK with that, that is."
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 02:29:31 am
She slowly stands and nods. "Kris should be back home... let's go see if she made it back okay."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 02:36:58 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 02:42:44 am
Post by: Khenal on January 08, 2012, 02:46:57 am
'Oh Celestia, why did I suggest something like this? Gotta focus, follow Starkey's instructions.'
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 02:51:00 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 02:54:17 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 02:55:15 am
Falcata looks away. "I'm just really disappointed... you know better than to go into the caverns." She looks over to Heiro and adds, "If Mr. Heiro hadn't been there, you could have really been hurt."
Or killed, more like it, but there was no need to bring that up. She ponders that for a moment. Heiro seemed to have more than a casual interest in Kris. And the figurine in her mind? Her subconscious saw that there was something to it. She mentally shrugs it off. After all, she had done a lot for Lilac and they were of no blood relation. But then, the filly had lost her family and had nopony else. But was he just being nice?
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 02:55:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 02:58:49 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 03:00:55 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 03:03:33 am
'Wow sis, I thought she would be scared of me after what I did to that crundle, and how I acted afterwords...'
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 03:04:36 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 03:09:43 am
Falcata shakes her head. "Absolutely not, unless you're with me."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 03:11:18 am
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 03:13:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 04:04:44 am
"I'm fine now." She continues to smile at Heiro before looking over to her mom. "Um... mom, can I go now?" She needed to go tell Lilac what happened, but she probably shouldn't mention that to her mom.
Falcata sighs and nods. "Yes... just please stay out of trouble. We'll talk more about it tonight."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 08, 2012, 01:27:52 pm
'Wow sis did I really just say that out loud? I am an idiot...'
Post by: Telgin on January 08, 2012, 01:55:48 pm
Falcata forms a small smile at Heiro. "Of course." She looks at Kris and adds, "Be on your best behavior for Mr. Heiro. I don't want to hear you've gone back to the caverns."
"I promise."
Kris leaves the room with Heiro in tow, wondering about what she should do now. Her mom looked pretty upset, and she hoped that she would calm down a bit before they talked about what she did. "Um, Mr. Heiro, what did you want to do?"
Back inside her room, Falcata removes her barding and places it in a less than neat pile before collapsing into bed. She extinguished the lanterns with her magic and embraced the darkness that swallowed the room. Almost everypony in Coupledye feared or hated her after what she did, but Heiro seemed to think she'd done the right thing. Would she have done things differently if she could do it over? Would she have tried to avoid coming to Glitterglen? She had experienced many lows since she had come here, but maybe the few high points kind of made up for it. Maybe.
Her mind drifts back to Khenal and the expression of consuming horror that crossed his face and the way he fled her. That would haunt her for a long time to come... and she was absolutely not looking forward to meeting him again in training. In fact, she should probably be returning to the barracks right now, but she was captain and she had the authority to call off training sessions if needed. And right now, trying to organize any training would be pointless at best and counterproductive at worst.
She blows out her breath and rolls over. She was obsessing over Khenal, but Heiro had been nothing but supportive for her. Perhaps she was missing the truth... but... maybe she was overlooking a true friend. Or at least, maybe missing an opportunity. But he didn't need to worry over her... these were her problems, not his.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 07:57:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 08:01:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 08:11:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 08:16:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 08:18:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 08:21:07 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 08, 2012, 08:24:16 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 08:26:46 pm
A small ball of blue and yellow gas flies out of Starkey's mouth and flies into Otik.
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 08:31:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 08:35:31 pm
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 08:51:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 09:08:46 pm
Post by: The Master on January 08, 2012, 09:24:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 08, 2012, 09:28:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 09, 2012, 05:43:37 am
"You? Again? I was there at the trial for your death. What is it now?" Schmoe asks the monstrous abomination holding him.
"If I cannot have my love, no-pony can have theirs!" came the booming voice of Psycho Carrot. "They don't deserve the happiness that should rightfully be MINE! So none of them can have it!"
With these words, an earthquake shakes the plane.
"Again, is that all you've got?" Schmoe asks derisively. "I've seen toddlers be scarier than you."
The monstrousity became incensed at this, and tightened its grip. "Your death will be a great victory for Khorne! You will be my next sacrifice after this feeble mare!"
"Oh, yes. I'm sure." Even as Carrot tried to crush him, Schmoe's body warped. Mouths filled his body, and began to eat Carrot's essence. Even as the giant tried to drop him, mouths fastened themselves further and continued to drain the essence.
"Insignificant worm!" yelled Carrot as the beast drew a massive axe from its back. Even as it shrieked through the abyssal æther that filled the plane, Schmoe moved up the arm, his mouths acting as fasteners onto the monstrous being.
Schmoe grew as he absorbed the essence of the great beast, tearing it apart even as it raged and tried to destroy him. Before long, the beast had shrunk and dropped the axe as the weight won the battle.
"Only now, at the end, do you understand, young Carrot. I am a daemon of Tzeentch. I have watched the stars be born and die. I have seen whole civilisations rise and fall. Do not ask which creature screams in the night. Do not question who waits for you in the shadow. It is my cry that wakes you in the night, and my body that crouches in the shadow. I am T'dz'le'kqsrproi'laszke'l and you are the puppet that dances to my tune." The daemon loomed over the tiny Carrot and smiled. "All is change." With a flick of his now engorged appendage, the last bit of Carrot was consumed.
With a sigh, he turned north. There was Otik. But not as Starkey knew her. She was changed. Weakened. Schmoe sighed. Another flick, and the essence he had consumed surged forth, rejuvenating the realm and restoring it whole. He collapsed, his strength gone. But Otik was there, supporting him.
"Who are ye?" she asked, and Schmoe shook his head.
"I am nothing." He tried to think of something witty to say, but he was draining out still. Otik was a ravenous soul, and if Schmoe had anything else to do, he would have marvelled at it. But...this was for her. For Friesden. He gasped again, as the energy left him drained, and he dug through her memory, like a drowning man's thrashing. And what he saw filled him with a deeper horror than he could possibly have imagined he would feel.
"Mica..." He exhaled and inhaled again. "Otik. Thank Friesden...for me. If...if you need someone to reward, let it be her. I am dead, and will never meet my maker. All is for her...."
He breathed in again. In agony, with the last of his essence draining away, he said "All...is...Dust..." and shrivelled up into a tiny piece of nothing and disappeared.
Post by: The Master on January 09, 2012, 07:27:10 am
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 06:42:56 pm
Falcata rolls over in bed and sighs. Her mind was racing, and despite her mental and physical fatigue she hadn't found much success in trying to sleep it off. She was supposed to be on duty right now anyway... it would be even more embarassing on top of all that had just happened if the duchess came around looking for her to find she was absent.
She focuses for a moment and despite being tired she manages to light the room adequately with her magic. With a tired grunt she slips out of bed and gathers her barding. As she tries to fasten the straps, she recalls that she had been meaning to get them adjusted for nearly a week now. After having lost so much weight while being sick, she'd had them replaced with the smallest available, and they didn't fit any more. It wouldn't do to be out of uniform either... best get this taken care of. That would be a plausible excuse if Lady Charity really had come looking for her somewhere.
She places her chanfron on her head, gathers her hammer and leaves for the forges. There should be an armorer or smith available to change the straps out for her, that shouldn't take too long. And it wasn't likely she would run into Khenal on the way.
Edit: Spelling and tense
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 07:46:38 pm
Time to make some new links to build the all-too-useful iron chains that were needed around here. He had the needed metal rods, placing them on the black-stained wooden work bench by his side. He stuck the tip of one bar into the forge as he waited for it to transform from a dark, dull gray to the required luminescent orange.
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 07:52:19 pm
The smell of burning coals met Falcata's nostrils as she neared the forges. The smell never completely left the area, of course, but at least it meant that somepony was probably around to tend them.
She slowly steps into the area and takes a quick look, noticing a single pony tending a forge. She fought her memory for a moment to place his name... Forgefire? Well, she wasn't sure, best not to embarrass herself by getting it wrong.
"Um, excuse me, can you help me with something?" she asks, waving a hoof at him to get his attention.
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 08:01:10 pm
(Should I assume that ponies can hold things with their hooves? I know Octavia can play the cello with her hooves, so that's gotta mean something...)
"Oh, um, well I guess that depends on what you want." He hadn't known many of the other ponies here, at least not very well. This one was no different. He couldn't even recall her name.
"So what's on your mind?"
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 08:05:49 pm
"Could you... replace these for me? I need some longer ones put in."
She half expected a fat joke to come as a response, but there wasn't any need to go into details. Normally she'd get Clamsteels or Cinderspark to handle this, but any smith should be able to set a few rivets. It wasn't like she needed articulations replaced or anything.
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 08:15:12 pm
Walking over to the piece of armor presented to him, he felt along the straps with a hoof, "Sure thing. Do you have any length you want these loosened to, or do you need me to take some measurements?" Forgefire felt a bit uneasy about asking that. Hopefully she wouldn't take offense to the request, but it was needed knowledge if he was going to comply.
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 08:20:42 pm
"I... uh, can't remember. I suppose you'll have to take some measurements."
At least this shouldn't get misconstrued into more than it was if somepony wandered in at a bad time.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 09, 2012, 09:13:02 pm
Post by: PawPrint on January 09, 2012, 09:44:46 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 10:38:59 pm
"Let me see what I can do," the pegasus responded. He paced over to a large bin containing various tools and instruments of his. Forgefire wasn't exactly the most organized pony, so he had to sift through the mess to find what he was looking for. Pushing aside a partly rusted sledgehammer, he eyed the frayed end of a rope. It was thin and fibrous, with knots tied into it at specific intervals so that it could be used to properly ascertain lengths and girths of irregular objects that a simple straight ruler could not do.
Shaking the dust off, he examined it to make sure there were no splits or stretches, "This should work."
Forge wasn't one to talk much, but he hadn't really spoken to anyone all day, "Something on your mind?" he questioned curiously, noting Falcata's distant expression and distracted tone. He carefully pulled the rope around her middle and made a mental note of how many knots it took up.
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 10:44:39 pm
"It's... been a long day, is all." She pauses as he shifts position and takes another measurement. "My daughter went down into the caverns earlier and got attacked by a crundle. I'm just thankful that the fortress guard were nearby when it happened."
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 10:50:49 pm
If she was attacked, then perhaps she had also been injured. At least the filly shouldn't have been dead, given the context. Would it have been appropriate to say what came next? "Well at least she's safe now...right?"
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 10:56:58 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 11:05:13 pm
Drat, he thought.
He rolled his eyes, "Ah yeah, things have been slow around here today. I've had some problems channeling the magma properly to this furnace, so I've had to resort to the use of dirty coals. Not like that matters much at the moment; I haven't had any work commissioned to me recently so I've decided to start on some spare chains in the inevitable case that one of the others should break in the future."
He turned and walked back to the suit, "At least this gives me something a bit more important to do now," he says as he taps the plates with a smudged hoof.
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 11:34:03 pm
That was true enough, she was looking for as many excuses to avoid the barracks right now. Well, Khenal had said that he was off to see Friesden, so only Madush and Osal would likely be there, but she wasn't keen on showing up looking like she'd lost her best friend and provoking questions. Even if that's exactly what she felt like had happened.
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 11:43:46 pm
Forge realized that he hadn't been properly acquainted, "Sorry, I probably should have asked your name.."
Post by: Telgin on January 09, 2012, 11:48:19 pm
"Ah, I'm Falcata. Captain Falcata, Lady Charity's personal guard."
She smiles and returns the question, "And you are..." She wanted to guess he was Forgefire, but best not to take chances. Things changed down here a lot without her knowing a thing about it.
Post by: Kryptid on January 09, 2012, 11:54:59 pm
"Ah yes, it's Forgefire. My name, I mean. I don't mind being called simply 'Forge' if that's your preference, however."
Each strip was cut to specification, so he tossed the shears aside and went for a hammer. Time to loosen those rivets.
Post by: Telgin on January 10, 2012, 12:03:17 am
She watches as Forgefire skillfully hammers the rivets free of the armor and retrieves fresh rivets. Armoring was always something she'd been interested in doing, but never had the time to learn. It was an especially foregone idea here in Glitterglen, since almost all of the metal had to be imported and fighting for practicing scraps with Ironya and the other smiths would be a criminal waste.
"I've always been interested in this stuff, I doubt I'll ever get the chance to learn any of it though."
Post by: Kryptid on January 10, 2012, 12:10:02 am
Putting the cut straps in place, he began to apply some of the newer rivets to the armor to hold them fast.
Post by: Telgin on January 10, 2012, 12:14:38 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 10, 2012, 12:20:08 am
"With the job you have, that's not surprising," he answered after securing the last piece, "Maybe you can try this on? See how well it fits?"
Post by: Telgin on January 10, 2012, 12:27:05 am
She levitates the adjusted armor onto her back and magically fastens the straps. They fit almost perfectly, just a bit loose, but that was fine. She didn't like it too snug anyway, and if she put on any more weight maybe she wouldn't have to bother him.
"That's perfect," she says with a smile. "Thank you very much."
Post by: Kryptid on January 10, 2012, 12:30:45 am
"If you ever have anything else I can fix, feel free to stop by again."
Post by: Telgin on January 10, 2012, 12:32:35 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 10, 2012, 12:38:13 am
Post by: Telgin on January 10, 2012, 12:41:55 am
She'd cover for him if Lady Charity showed up at the barracks. Besides, she was pretty sure the duchess would understand the circumstances with Friesden and Khenal.
((Scene concluded))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 12:56:54 am
"Mmm... wha... Sta-"
She cannot even form a coherent thought before he falls upon her, weeping and blubbering and showering her with kisses.
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 01:05:22 am
"I love you."
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 01:13:11 am
She tries to hold the kiss, but her tiredness gets the better of her, and she falls onto Khenal, sleeping.
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 01:51:31 am
Morning comes all too soon, and I awaken a bit stiff and sore from the awkward sleeping position, but it's worth it to be near Friesden. I hazily open my eyes and carefully lift my head, trying to not wake her.
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 01:53:25 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 01:56:59 am
Lilac bolts straight up, sweating like crazy and panting for breath.
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 01:58:59 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:00:08 am
"Lilac?"
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:01:56 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 02:03:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:03:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:09:14 am
"Good morning, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:10:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:12:41 am
"G-Good *gasp* morning to you too, Lilac."
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:13:58 am
"Here on the floor, or here in the hospital?"
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 02:14:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:15:27 am
"Why are we in the hospital?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:17:28 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 02:18:23 am
Lilac buries her head in Starkey's mane.
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:23:40 am
"Something happened to Lilac, Starkey and Otik... and you. I...I'm so sorry. You looked so frightened... I reached out and... and you fell over backwards, startled. You... your wing is broken. And..."
'Please. Please don't let the proposal just have been delirium. I'll do anything, oh please...'
"...And you proposed. To me."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:24:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:25:49 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:28:45 am
"Of course I want to marry you, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:30:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:33:16 am
"You'll marry her?"
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 02:33:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:36:34 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 02:38:13 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 02:43:34 am
My composure shatters as I embrace her, tears of joy flowing freely.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 02:45:57 am
"Wot? Oh, Friesden's gettin' married... well now I feel... Friesden's gettin' married!? Our Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 02:47:02 am
She returns the embrace, and gives him another kiss.
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 03:02:18 am
"Best Birthday ever..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 03:03:55 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 03:04:08 am
"PAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 03:10:06 am
My eyes widen in terror, but I manage to not bolt like my instincts tell me to. Instead, I give Friesden and the others a sheepish smile.
"Oh, um... yes?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 03:12:13 am
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 03:49:02 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 03:50:24 am
"Yay..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 03:51:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 03:52:38 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 03:58:37 am
I calm down slightly, though my eyes occasionally dart towards the exit and away again.
"Heh, um, I guess I just... forgot?"
Post by: The Master on January 10, 2012, 03:59:09 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 04:01:14 am
"This is going to be so fun! Oh, I can't wait!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 04:05:42 am
"...Right. Well, happy birthday, lad."
"So we're havin' a birthday party, then a wedding? Does this mean we dun' get a bachelorette party?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 04:06:47 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 04:09:43 am
"Thanks, Starkey."
I give Friesden a nuzzle as she gets up to go plan the party.
"Um, have fun planning?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 04:12:54 am
The two scamper off, giggling as they leave.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 04:18:58 am
"So... You forgot it was your birthday..."
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 04:21:29 am
I shake my head, trying to squash the rising panic as I look at Starkey.
"...um, maybe?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 04:26:00 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 04:36:39 am
I shake my head again, then hang it.
"Tailentranced. After... my parents... birthdays were never a good thing for me. All the attention, the adoration... I hated it. I never told anypony here because I was afraid it... might happen again."
A few tears fall to the hospital floor as I relive the memories of birthdays past.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 04:42:24 am
A smile crosses his muzzle.
"Well, except for a certain little pegasus mare..."
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 04:51:42 am
I lift my head to look Starkey in the eyes, trying to not shudder or collapse in fear.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 04:58:04 am
"Well... tell me a little more about it. You mentioned your parents? What were they like?"
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 05:04:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 05:23:10 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 05:32:05 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 05:38:58 am
Okay, not helping. time to get off the subject entirely.
"speaking of parents, that reminds me: you wanted me to see about getting those therapy books for Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 10, 2012, 05:40:04 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 05:44:16 am
"Y-yes, please. Do you think the Rainbows w-would sell them?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 05:56:10 am
'Schmoe, you clever bastard...'
"No, I'm afraid not. The Principality comes down hard on the distribution of so-called 'blasphemous texts', and the Coalition doesn't want any advanced knowledge falling into the hands of their 'enemies'. They'd have to be smuggled across, and that's incredibly risky."
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 05:59:23 am
"I couldn't give a buck about what Hugwax wants, but convincing the Rainbows to share would be difficult too?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 06:15:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 06:18:45 am
'Huh. I wonder how many of the books I got from them were illegal for them to sell.'
"So... how do we get some of those therapy books?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 10, 2012, 06:27:58 am
Post by: Khenal on January 10, 2012, 06:32:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 01:51:00 am
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 02:01:55 am
After that, she called off the rest of the training session for that day. Madush and Osal had sparred a bit with themselves and gotten a bit of target practice in, and that was enough. She wasn't accomplishing much other than getting herself hurt, so there wasn't much point in continuing it.
At least getting a few bruises paled in comparison to nearly being burned alive by magma... this entire thing with Khenal was going to get her killed at this rate...
But she didn't feel like facing him yet. Thankfully he was off duty today. When he was ready to talk about it, maybe she would be, but she wasn't going to bother him any more. Not if she could help it.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 02:14:06 am
'Ok Khenal, you can do this. Just apologize for barging into her mind and seeing her past without her conscious permission. And... for leaving so abruptly. Don't traumatize her more than you have already.'
I continue pacing, still unable to work up the courage to open the door.
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 02:23:36 am
She hangs her head and begins for the door, hoping that nopony that knew her would notice the bruises or ask too many questions if they did.
"Oh, Khenal! I thought you were off today? Captain Falcata just called off the training for the day," she hears Madush say from just outside the barracks.
Her blood froze.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 02:31:34 am
'Well, no getting out of it now...'
"Um, really? I, uh, just wanted to talk to her about something."
I slowly walk into the barracks with my head hung low, not really looking forward to what has to be said, but not willing to just leave either.
"Um... Captain?"
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 02:35:51 am
She wipes a little more blood from her lip and says, "Uh... you just missed training for today..." Maybe he wasn't here to talk about it right now, best not to assume anything yet.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 02:43:36 am
I raise my eyes to look at Falcata, but keep my head low.
"Um... can we talk?"
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 02:47:43 am
"Alright..."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 02:53:36 am
I look up to her, my eyes pleading for forgiveness.
"Please say we're still friends..."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:02:48 am
"I... um... Khenal... I-I think I owe you the apology. I... never intended for anypony to have to see any of that... I'm the one who screwed up the link."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 03:10:20 am
"You didn't screw up the link. You... shifted it, quite well in fact. You handled having ponies in your mind very well, Falcata. It... can be dangerous for outsiders to visit a mind that's not ready. But you didn't harm us. Even showing us... traumatic memories, we were unharmed."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:19:43 am
"Yes... I've been wondering about that..." She wipes her lip again nervously, finding no more blood this time. "I panicked at first and ran off to find an exit, forgetting of course that there wouldn't be one. Then... then I ran into Estoc. He told me to relax... that there were some things he wanted to show you and Corporal Heiro."
She looks up to Khenal again. "I didn't understand any of it at the time... but I listened to him. I think... I think maybe really I did want somepony to see it all... even if I didn't realize it."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 03:26:51 am
"Keeping memories like those secret can be... tiring. Letting friends know about your past lets them help carry the burden, make it lighter. Um..."
I turn away slightly, unsure how to broach the subject of the statue.
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:35:05 am
"But then... you saw it... and..." her sentence trails off as she rests her forhead against a hoof, looking away.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 03:43:24 am
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:57:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:04:00 am
"Hey big brother! How are you?"
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 04:05:52 am
"Are... are we still friends?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:06:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:09:02 am
She looks around conspiratorially, and then whispers in Heiro's ear "Then he and I are going to get MARRIED!" She squees as she says this.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:11:47 am
'Huh Little sis is getting married, hope Khenal takes care of her.'
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:13:15 am
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 04:13:31 am
Clop. Well that was a strange thing to say at a time like this...
((Khenal and I agree that this is a good place for Charity to come in, KingStrongbeard, so take it away whenever you get a chance))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:15:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:18:05 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:19:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:21:19 am
"Those are the banners! I made them myself! And....and that's about all," she admits sheepishly, but there's going to be more! Lots of them!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:32:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:35:22 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:37:38 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:41:39 am
Friesden drags Heiro over to Lilac.
Post by: The Master on January 11, 2012, 07:33:11 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 10:15:35 am
She looks him in the eye and a genuine smile forms on her face. "Yes... of course." She can feel the inkling of utter relief mixed with joy finally edging into her mind. "Thank you," she whispers under her breath.
Clop. Well that was a strange thing to say at a time like this...
((Khenal and I agree that this is a good place for Charity to come in, KingStrongbeard, so take it away whenever you get a chance))
Charity is making her way through the halls of Glitterglen, a large, long, thin box floats in the air next to her. The unicorn is smiling wide, and practically skipping as she goes. She reaches the door to the training hall and opens it without knocking and walks in on the end of Falcata and Khenal's discussion. She holds the present behind her, but due to the length, even her considerable girth couldn't hide it from plain view.
"Oh Khenal, good, I hoped I'd find you here."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:13:48 am
She bows her head before the duchess with as much grace as she can recover in the moment. Charity had addressed Khenal already, so she didn't say anything, not wanting to interrupt whatever she had to say.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 01:22:03 pm
Charity and her obvious good mood are enough to distract me, not to mention that box. Falcata bowing reminds me of my manners, and I bow as well.
"Hello Charity. How are you today?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 02:13:45 pm
Whatever she was about to say to Falcata is cut short as she notices the bruises and cuts on her Captain's face. Charity loses concentration and the box drops to the floor.
"Sisters! What happened? Are you okay?"
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 02:29:39 pm
'Sisters above! When did Falcata get injured?'
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 02:30:12 pm
"I'm fine!" she replies lifting a hoof. "I... just had a bit of a rough day sparring. Had my mind on other things, and I think Osal is getting better at fighting with his crossbow instead of just shooting with it." She smiles sheepishly. "My fault. Sorry, didn't mean to alarm you."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 02:37:47 pm
Post by: The Master on January 11, 2012, 03:15:19 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:19:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 03:27:45 pm
"If you say so, Charity. You are perhaps the only nobility I've ever known who is actually noble and deserves some bowing. Um, you were looking for me?"
Post by: The Master on January 11, 2012, 03:33:02 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 03:37:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 11, 2012, 04:18:53 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 04:20:30 pm
Post by: The Master on January 11, 2012, 04:29:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:34:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 04:36:50 pm
And besides, we'll need to wait for the next pony mod for the new version. Because the modding possibilities are drool inducing.))
Post by: The Master on January 11, 2012, 04:47:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:51:18 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 04:52:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 04:54:13 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 05:31:17 pm
I give Charity a small smile.
"If you say so, Charity. You are perhaps the only nobility I've ever known who is actually noble and deserves some bowing. Um, you were looking for me?"
"Oh yes!" Charity's grin returns as she remembers why she was standing here. "I had something commissioned for you, Khenal. A gift. I paid for it out of my own pocket, but it was worth every bit. I hope you like it."
She levitates the box up between her and Khenal waiting for him to reach out and take it.
The box is long and narrow, and made of fine smooth wood. Along the lid of the box is engraved 7 ponies and a wagon traveling, through a jungle, it refers to the founding of Glitterglen in 94. The box has a silvery metal latch and is wrapped in a red ribbon with a large bow.
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 05:51:38 pm
'Don't freak out, Charity is just being nice. It's not like Tailentranced...'
"I... I don't know what to say, Charity. Thank you for... what is it?"
Curiosity slowly overcoming my unease, I carefully undo the bow and open the box.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 06:05:12 pm
As Khenal opens the box, he sees the finest spear he has ever set his eyes upon, resting in a bed of red dyed silk cloth. The spear looks like...
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/To%20Khenal%20From%20Charity.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Khenal%27s%20Spear.png)
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 06:08:32 pm
"Wow," she mouths, unable to actually say a thing.
((By the way, were we still going to do the thing about the crossbow?))
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 06:23:44 pm
"It... it's amazing, Charity. I... I don't..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 06:35:43 pm
"I'm glad you like it Khenal, it took Udur and Ironya three tries to get the balance just right, but I'm still not entirely happy with the silver and gold gilding, it could have been done better I feel."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 06:42:18 pm
Falcata finally manages to shake the awe long enough to say, "It's beautiful... I... don't see how it could have been done any better..."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 07:50:35 pm
'Tin... like my first toys... I used to love climbing trees...'
I look to Charity, tears filling my eyes.
"It's... it's..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 07:59:39 pm
"Oh Khenal, it was nothing really. It's just spear. No need to go getting so emotional."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 08:08:07 pm
"It's perfect, Charity. The... the last real gift I got was... was from my parents. Th-thank you, so much!"
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 08:16:47 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 08:18:51 pm
"My friends deserve nothing less than the best Khenal."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 08:27:28 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 08:37:36 pm
Falcata is surprised by the sudden yank and tenses initially, especially when she realizes that she is also touching Charity. "Not appropriate!" her mind screams, but after a few moments she relaxes and joins in, making a semi-conscious effort to lean toward Khenal instead of Charity. This was only the third hug she had received from or given an adult in years, and all within the span of a few days. The relief of knowing that she had ponies she could rely on in Glitterglen had an almost palpable sensation of relief.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 08:44:29 pm
After a few moments of this, Charity speaks up, "Um, their was also a bit of business I wanted to discuss with the two of you, if you have a moment."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 08:46:15 pm
"Oh, um, of course. What is it?"
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 08:47:14 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 08:55:26 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 09:04:28 pm
"I would be proud and honored to have such a weapon at our disposal, and I know Madush would feel the same... but Lieutenant Otik... I..." She trails off, unsure if she was willing to question such an absolute statement by Charity.
((Dang it, who to believe? Starkey calls her a lieutenant, the duchess calls her a captain... Falcata is confused. :P))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 09:27:59 pm
"Yes Falcata, what about Otik?"
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 09:28:13 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 09:29:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 09:32:03 pm
"Why don't you trust them? And if you don't trust them, why keep them in the military?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 09:44:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 09:59:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 10:01:58 pm
And then the ponies arrive to drag me away to my
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 10:03:27 pm
"U-umm d-duchess I'm sorry I-I" Heiro blushes and bows quickly.
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 10:06:25 pm
"Hello, Your Grace, we've just come to take Khenal to the party that you're totally not giving a speech at, remember! Hello Falcata! Are you coming, too?"
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 10:07:25 pm
Thankfully, the arriving ponies relieved her of the need to actually say anything. She blinks dumbly at Friesden for a moment. "Party?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 10:09:35 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 10:09:36 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 10:11:19 pm
"I'm not sure what a party's like but little sis planned it so it'll be awesome!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 10:13:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 10:13:52 pm
She looks back to Friesden. Well, that would give her some more time to think. Telling the duchess she had a gut feeling Otik was a safe bet wouldn't be good enough, she imagined. "Of course I'll come."
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 10:16:17 pm
"Um, I... guess we should get going?"
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 10:17:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 10:18:00 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 10:21:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 10:38:55 pm
"Yes, best party ever..."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 10:42:14 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 10:43:11 pm
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Powder.png
"Charity looks to Khenal, are you going to bring your new spear so everypony can see it?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 10:44:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 10:45:31 pm
My horn glows as I carefully levitate Charity's gift after Friesden and myself.
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 10:48:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 10:58:33 pm
'Her happiness is just so infectious.'
"Yes it is. Did Charity show you this before?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:00:13 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:01:57 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 11:03:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:19:45 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 11:24:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:27:05 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:27:37 pm
"Oh, hi mom! Mr. Heiro!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 11:28:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 11:29:34 pm
"Um, just Khenal, please. Friesden is best pony."
I give her a gentle nuzzle for emphasis.
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 11:30:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:32:07 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 11:33:46 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:34:49 pm
Falcata idly brushes the blemish on her nose and nods with a smile. "Yes, I'm fine, just an accident while training. But we've got something to show you." She looks over to Heiro.
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:35:12 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 11:35:26 pm
'The whole fort?!'
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 11:36:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:38:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 11:40:47 pm
'It's not Tailentranced. It's like Charity's gift, something thought out and personal. Even if the entire fort is there for it...'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 11:41:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:42:56 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 11:43:53 pm
Then one of them, Friesden turned her attention back to him and hugged him. "Y-y-yeah, I- y-yeah..."
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:45:49 pm
Falcata pauses. "Oh... but we don't have a gift for Khenal..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:46:53 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 11:47:47 pm
"I-I don't want to mess up the party... not after little sis put so much work into it..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 11, 2012, 11:48:57 pm
'This should be a fun evening.'
Post by: Powder Miner on January 11, 2012, 11:51:08 pm
She wanted him to tell them about himself. Aaaaargh!
Post by: Telgin on January 11, 2012, 11:54:16 pm
She leads them back out to the hallway. "So, where was the party?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 11, 2012, 11:54:39 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 11, 2012, 11:55:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 11, 2012, 11:55:57 pm
"Woodcutting? Maybe I've worked with something you've brought in."
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:01:26 am
"Well, in Coupledye it varied a lot depending on what the party was for, of course. For birthdays there was usually a lot of friends and family over and lot of food for everypony. Some families would do things one way or another, streamers, banners, little things like that. Most of the time the guests would bring gifts for whoever's birthday it was."
She rolls her eyes and smiles. "Some families would have a lot of alcohol around too. People would socialize until they got too drunk." She chuckles a little. "Only saw one or two like that myself, thankfully."
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:03:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:06:00 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 12:07:36 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:09:39 am
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:12:01 am
Falcata chuckles again. "Well, I've got no idea what Friesden has planned, of course, could be anything. I only wish Kris could have seen a few in Coupledye. We've been here ever since around her first birthday."
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:13:14 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:15:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:16:22 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 12, 2012, 12:17:05 am
"Relax kid. I don't bite, and neither does Khenal, unless you're a badger pony that is."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 12:18:09 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:18:35 am
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 12:20:07 am
"So it looks like you're safe."
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:21:04 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:24:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:28:00 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:29:02 am
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:29:37 am
"Well, my family wasn't too wealthy, but we managed a little something for me each year until I was grown."
She gives a small smile to the two in her company. "Well, I suppose you'll both get to see your first real birthday party today." She'd done something small for Kris each year of course, but she could never have afforded to do anything of this scale, and Kris didn't really have any friends outside of Lilac.
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 12:30:02 am
My horn shines softly as i carefully try too disentangle Friesden and Powder.
"Are you alright, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:30:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 12:32:56 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:34:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:35:30 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 12, 2012, 12:36:26 am
"Friesden, are you okay, did you re-break your wing? Do you need to go to the infirmary?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:37:42 am
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 12:39:14 am
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:40:29 am
Falcata raises an eyebrow in surprise that Kris knew that so readily.
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:40:50 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 12:45:07 am
Heiro thinks a bit. "Hmm, so Kris, when do you think my birthday is?"
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:45:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:46:51 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 12, 2012, 12:48:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:49:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:50:56 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 12:54:09 am
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 12:58:38 am
Falcata nods silently. It was a long ways off, maybe they could get something going by then. Maybe birthday parties could kind of become a tradition for Glitterglen like Coupledye by then.
As the thought finishes, the three finally reach the dining hall where the final preparations are being made.
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 12:59:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 01:05:44 am
"Really, hun, I can handle this. You should rest."
"I'll be fine, Stars. Ye dunnae need t'wait on me so."
"You lost a lot of blood, Otik. You're still very weak."
"An' you gave over a pint o' yer own. Shouldnae you be restin' as well, then?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 01:08:13 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 12, 2012, 03:01:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 10:53:33 pm
"Oooh ho-ho! There's my little girl! How have you been?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 10:56:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 10:58:41 pm
"Of course it is. Only the best for my son-on-law."
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:00:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:02:56 pm
'It's a gift of love, don't freak out.'
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:04:11 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 12, 2012, 11:06:19 pm
"Khenal, why don't you go show your soon to be father-in-law your gift, and I'm going to go say hello to Thunder, over there, I'll talk to you later."
Charity walks over to greet her old friend Thundersplinters.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 11:07:09 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:08:19 pm
She notices ThunderSplinter sitting off to herself, sipping at some wine. Every time she saw the pony she cringed inside. That wasn't a day she was going to forget. Ever. Had she ever apologized to her? With what happened later that day, she couldn't remember.
Well, she wouldn't want to cause a scene in the middle of Khenal's party, so she idly wanders in that direction. If ThunderSplinter started a conversation, she'd be happy to talk, but she wouldn't push it. And if not, she would be mostly out of the way over here, and maybe not everypony would ask her who kicked her in the face.
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:09:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:10:11 pm
I walk over to Starkey, levitating the gift behind me. The earlier conversation with Charity about him and Otik flashes through my mind as I approach.
"Um, heya Starkey. How, um... how are you doing?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 11:14:06 pm
- - - - - -
"Well, now that I know Otik will be alright. Thank you, by the way."
Starkey notices the box floating in the air, wreathed in Khenal's magic.
"What is that, then? Been peeking into your gifts?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:17:07 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:17:38 pm
Kris wanders off as her mom sits down. Lilac would be here, right? She hadn't had a chance to talk to her in a while, and she probably had a lot to say if she'd been helping organize this party.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:19:32 pm
He spots Friesden in the group and walks over "Hey little sis, how you doin'?"
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:19:54 pm
My horns glows as I open the box to show Starkey the spear from Charity.
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:22:54 pm
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 12, 2012, 11:23:07 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:24:41 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 12, 2012, 11:25:28 pm
The tan pegasus loitered near the area where the party was to be thrown, pacing the hard floors and staying close to the decorated walls. He always did have a bit of nervous energy about him and rarely stood still if he could help it. However, Forge held back from going in until he was certain that the festivities had begun. In the meantime, he occupied himself by thinking of ways to improve his craft.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 11:26:44 pm
- - - - - -
Alarm bells! Friesden shouldn't be this worried about Khenal being unhappy. Starkey vouched for the alicorn, and she valued that, but Otik still isn't so sure...
"Just... try not t'get hurt again. For me, as much as for him."
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:28:37 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:29:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 12, 2012, 11:30:24 pm
'I should have grabbed a drink, first.' she thinks to herself.
"Uh, Hello Thunder, how have you been?" she nervously smiles at Thundersplinter before taking her seat.
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:30:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:31:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:33:59 pm
She notices Heiro and Friesden talking and turning toward her. Time to put all of that nastiness aside for now. She smiles at them from across the distance.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:34:32 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:35:27 pm
"Because Otik thinks I might have scared him, and this is his birthday. It's gotta be the best day ever!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:36:56 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 11:37:41 pm
"...no, I haven't. We haven't really spoken that much since... you know."
He raises his head, watching Charity and ThunderSplinter from afar.
"Even then, at the height of my anger, I never intended her any harm, but... that doesn't make what I almost did any better."
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:39:34 pm
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 12, 2012, 11:41:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:42:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:44:53 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:45:12 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:46:02 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 12, 2012, 11:48:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:49:58 pm
"Hello! I'm Friesden! What's your name?"
Before he can reply, Friesden gives him a tacklehug too.
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:51:13 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 12, 2012, 11:52:06 pm
As he turns towards the small crowd around Charity, he notices something out of the corner of his eye: an inscription on Captain Falcata's hammer. He squints to read it.
'Loyalty'
"Huh. You did Falcata's hammer too? Loyalty... wasn't that what you put on Carrot's dagger?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 12, 2012, 11:54:09 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 12, 2012, 11:56:16 pm
"I...nngh!"
Pupils dilate as he finds himself in the choke-hold of a hug that Friesden gives him. He was not expecting this. "I'm...Forgefire...do I...know you?" he managed to squeeze out timidly as he looked for a way to back out of the stranger's hooves.
Post by: Khenal on January 12, 2012, 11:56:35 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 12, 2012, 11:57:00 pm
Charity continues her drink and tries to make small talk, "I, uh, like your earrings. Nagel made them right? He was always so skilled. A pity what happened to him."
Post by: Telgin on January 12, 2012, 11:57:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 12, 2012, 11:58:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 12:00:34 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 12:04:03 am
"K-Khenal? Yeah, I'm pretty sure I did hear that this was a birthday party..." Forge replied with a feigned smile covering up his feelings of slight worry and awkwardness.
"So then...congratulations. On the marriage, that is. To this Kennel...um...Khenal..." he continued, followed by nervous laughter.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 13, 2012, 12:04:30 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 12:06:43 am
"You are Honest, but I never engraved anything. That's uncanny, I remember using your axe against Cockroach to great effect. Carrot's knife as well..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:11:05 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 12:14:18 am
"Sure thing...I do believe that I've met Falcata before," the pegasus responded, feeling a bit more reassured that at least he had seen one of them before.
He followed after Friesden, but his pace was notably less energetic than hers.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 12:16:29 am
"I loved Nagel's work. The table and chairs in my dinning room where commissioned from him. As is a large glass statue of the 7 founders all studded with indigo gems that I had put in there as well. I know some ponies think I ordered those, executions, but I can honestly say that those orders where not mine."
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:18:26 am
Friesden squees and claps her hooves together. "You two are the cutest couple ever!"
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 12:21:58 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 12:24:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 12:25:24 am
Starkey ponders this for a moment.
"Honesty and Loyalty... I've heard those together before. Khenal, how well do you know your scripture?"
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 12:26:32 am
She clears her throat and looks at the ponies around her, feeling her face flush slightly. "Uh..."
She takes in what Forgefire said and decides to change the subject. "Oh, hello again Forgefire. I trust you're doing well?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:27:01 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 12:28:21 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 13, 2012, 12:31:16 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 12:33:28 am
The blacksmith pegasus grunts a bit as he sees Friesden push the two back together. He can tell Falcata isn't enjoying the occurance. This peppy filly is starting to scare him a bit. Hopefully she wasn't gonna try to do anything embarrassing to him...
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:33:36 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 12:34:41 am
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 12:41:19 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 12:42:26 am
((My chubby little unicorn, has no willpower against cupcakes.))
"Thanks. I guess I'll go mingle now, um, if you ever want to talk again, you know where to find me. Maybe we can do lunch together again sometime."
She levitates the cupcake and takes a bite out of it. She stands and looks around for other ponies to talk to. She sees the group surrounding Falcata.
'It's good to see she's finally making some friends. I'd best not get in the way.'
And she looks for somepony else to talk to.
'There's Khenal, but he's with those two. Don't want to go there.'
She decides to wander the room chatting with whichever random ponies are attending.
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:43:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 12:45:46 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 12:48:44 am
"Magic is a virt-woah!"
Friesden's tackle hug, while greatly appreciated, catches me off guard and I stumble.
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 12:48:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 12:52:05 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 12:54:44 am
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 12:59:27 am
"Oh... I, um, not yet. I was going to ask her this afternoon." She makes a motion to the ponies surrounding them in the dining hall and adds with a smile, "But then the party happened."
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 01:02:15 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 01:02:56 am
'They aren't trying to scheme for my favor, they just want to show their friendship. It... it really isn't like Tailentranced. Not at all...'
I look Friesden in the eyes as happy tears start to well.
"Y... Yes, I am. Thank you, Friesden. It really is the best birthday party ever. Thank you so much!"
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 01:04:03 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 01:07:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 01:08:47 am
'Well, no time like the present...'
He tentatively approaches Countess Charity.
"M-Miss Charity, ma'am? Could I... have a word?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 01:12:01 am
Friesden gives Khenal another long kiss to rival the longest kisses she's given him, holding him tight to her.
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 01:15:05 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 01:16:45 am
"Of course Commander. What business would you like to discuss?"
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 01:21:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 01:24:29 am
Starkey paws the floor nervously, searching for the words.
"I've been meaning to talk to you about... what I almost did to you... those years ago."
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 01:26:06 am
The pegasus looked around a bit, "So this daughter of yours, is she here at this party as well?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 01:28:16 am
"Perhaps we should take a seat, if we are going to have this talk."
She gestures toward an empty table against the wall, out of the way of the party.
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 01:30:47 am
She notices Friesden and Khenal openly kissing in front of the entire fortress and isn't sure if she should feel happy or embarrassed for them. "Well, looks like Friesden and Khenal are happy at least," she says, motioning at them with a hoof.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 01:39:58 am
"Thank you, ma'am."
"When I heard what had happened to Bokbon and Nanges, I was... angry. Not just that one of our own had been killed - though I'll admit, that was very much on my mind. I was angry that a pony in a position of power would us it to... to murder two ponies over something that at the time seemed so frivolous. But you... you're so very different from the nobility back there. I should have known you never would have ordered something like that."
"I... I want you to know that I'm sorry, for everything."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 01:51:06 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 01:56:33 am
- - - - - -
Khenal and Friesden look up to find Otik standing over them, grinning.
"That looks fun. Room f'r one more down there?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:02:44 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 02:05:12 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 02:08:13 am
"Um... heya, Otik."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 02:21:31 am
Starkey hangs his head.
- - - - - -
Otik plants a kiss on each of their cheeks.
"Heya, birthday boy. Enjoyin' yer party?"
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 02:24:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:27:05 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 02:30:55 am
"...Starkey, I believe you. I believe you are truly sorry. And for what it's worth, I forgive you. I hope that we can be friends again, I've missed you."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 02:34:17 am
"Thank you, I... I've missed you too."
He gets up, moving to hug her, but then shrinks back, deciding it's probably a bit too soon for that.
- - - - - -
"Better. A lot better, now that I'm up an' about."
She leans in to nuzzle Friesden.
"An' especially now that I heard my little filly's gettin' married!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:36:00 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 02:47:48 am
"Brother?"
Otik breaks off the hug, and in an astounding feat of acrobatics, twists around to put her ear to her own belly while hovering in the air.
"Friesden... do ye know somethin' I dun'?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:48:48 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 02:50:19 am
'Truly the best birthday ever.'
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 02:52:40 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:53:35 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 02:54:03 am
"So, my friend, what's new in your life? I've heard a lot of rumors about you and Friesden, and I've heard her call you and Otik, her father and mother. What's going on there? If that's not to personal."
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 02:58:23 am
((Gonna be my last post for tonight. Got work in the morning.))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 03:00:39 am
- - - - - -
"Oh Fri, How crude! I swear, you have th' dirtiest thoughts some times."
Otik chuckles.
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:06:59 am
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 03:07:23 am
"Oh, uh, she's almost five. The two of us have been here since she was just under a year old. She'll be a mare before I know it." She lets out a nervous chuckle and fights back a frown. He certainly didn't mean anything by the last statement, and she wasn't going to volunteer anything. "And no, not a lot of foals around Glitterglen. She has a few friends close to her age though."
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 03:14:11 am
"I've no idea where she gets it from, heh."
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:17:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 03:34:45 am
"Looks like Stars managed t'patch things up with th' countess."
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:41:47 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 03:45:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:47:41 am
"What?" comes her muffled voice. "It's nice and comfy and warm and cuddly in here!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 03:48:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:49:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 03:53:35 am
"Yer right, hun... It's awfully warm an' cuddly in here!"
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 03:55:12 am
"Hehe, careful, that tickles, hah!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 03:56:26 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 04:00:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 04:03:09 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 04:09:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 04:18:57 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 04:34:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 04:36:28 am
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 02:27:16 pm
"You'll see him again, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 02:34:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 03:09:16 pm
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 04:38:57 pm
"...hmph...look at me, i'm Khenal, and- AHHH! Kris, don't scare me like that!"
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 05:04:29 pm
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 05:10:28 pm
Lilac begins to cry.
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 05:31:45 pm
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 05:38:06 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 05:51:46 pm
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 05:55:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 06:34:02 pm
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 06:51:25 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 08:58:17 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 09:00:45 pm
"We should find Lilac. She's the best sister I could have hoped for."
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 09:04:12 pm
"I'm going to be a diomedian."
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 09:05:38 pm
"Do you know where she might be?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 09:06:33 pm
"It's not too personal at all. I'm proud to call her my daughter. She asked us both, just after she recovered, and we said yes. After hearing what that... horrible stallion did to her, I think she deserves a real, loving family."
"Well, I'm sure you and Otik can be that for her. But uh, I've heard you adopted Lilac Joker as well. Any plans for you and Otik to tie the knot? Maybe have a few foals of your own?"
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 09:07:43 pm
"I'm going to be a diomedian."
Kris pants and shakes her head.
"Wh-what... are you... talking about?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 09:09:09 pm
"No...but she must have been here to help mum and dad set up."
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 09:10:03 pm
Lilac turns and prepares to run off into the jungle.
Post by: Khenal on January 13, 2012, 09:11:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 13, 2012, 09:12:46 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 09:12:55 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 09:13:33 pm
Starkey blushes just a bit.
"I-It's a funny thing, actually. I suppose Otik felt I was moving things... a little too slowly, so..."
The glow on his cheeks intensifies.
"She proposed to me."
Post by: The Master on January 13, 2012, 09:15:17 pm
And with that, Lilac Joker disappears into the jungle.
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 09:21:55 pm
She takes a few uneasy steps and breaks into a trot as she heads into the woods. Lilac was getting harder and harder to see, and already she could feel panic beginning to grip her. What if there was another tentacle pony here, waiting for them? She slows to a stop and hangs her head. No... she couldn't do this alone. She would waste some time, but if all of the grown ups came help they could find Lilac.
She turns and breaks into a gallop for the fortress. Everypony would still be in the dining hall.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 09:27:16 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 09:30:14 pm
He clears his throat.
"There are... a few more things I'd like to ask of you, if it's not too much."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 09:36:12 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 09:40:15 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 09:47:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 09:56:04 pm
Okay, now for the hard part.
"Now there's... something else. You heard what happened to Otik?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 10:02:29 pm
'She seemed okay to me.' she thinks to herself.
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 10:19:00 pm
That... had never crossed her mind. After what happened to Estoc, she hadn't exactly been looking to be in a relationship.
Heiro was a nice pony, but... she barely knew him... and some of the things she did know were a little worrisome. He seemed to like Kris a lot, but... well, she just didn't think she was ready for another relationship. Not yet.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 10:22:51 pm
"When I saw her lying like that, slipping away... I panicked. The love of my life was dying brfore my eyes, and I didn't know what to do, and that terrified me more than anything else I've ever seen."
"There's just... so much we have left to do together, and I'd like the time to do that. To be with her, just the two of us, for a little while, in case..."
He pauses, then continues.
"I'd like to ask if you would give the two of us some time away from the job. Not permanently, mind you. Even just a month would suffice. Is... is that acceptable?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 10:25:47 pm
'you do make a cute couple you know.'
'You think so sis?'
'I know so, go ahead, sit by her, she may not have feelings for you, but you'll never find out if you just look.'
Heiro moves over and sits right next to Falcata, not touching her, but closer than normal. 'I hope you're right sis'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 13, 2012, 10:32:40 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 13, 2012, 10:34:12 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 11:09:50 pm
She decides not to move away. She didn't want to upset him, especially if she was reading into this more than there was. He was a nice pony... but... she hoped Friesden didn't push the idea. Not yet... Maybe some day. But not yet...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 11:13:56 pm
Post by: Kryptid on January 13, 2012, 11:28:01 pm
A cupcake sounds good right about now, he thought.
Eyeing the plate in question, his ears fell back as he saw they had all already been taken.
N'aww, man...
Might as well settle for something else. What else might tickle his fancy here?
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 11:28:30 pm
"Oh, um, she's doing fine. She's been spending a little time with Doctor Bubbles when he has it to spare. He seems to think she has a real talent for healing magic. I suppose she must," she replies with a nervous chuckle.
But why would Heiro think she minded if he was friends with her? "And... no, of course I don't mind if you're friends... she doesn't have many here in Glitterglen."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 11:42:12 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 13, 2012, 11:47:08 pm
"Uh, who didn't mean what now?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 13, 2012, 11:53:30 pm
Hero looks into Falcata's eyes as he says this, then blushes and looks down.
Post by: Telgin on January 14, 2012, 12:01:55 am
"Oh... I..." She clears her throat. "That's... something I've questioned more times than I care to remember. I think... I think you're right. I don't know how she would have felt living in Coupledye with the rest of my family, but I don't think I could have managed without her." She taps her temple with a hoof and adds, "Well, you saw the tower... heard what Estoc said..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 12:11:23 am
"I... I wouldn't want to lose you... I remember what I saw and... well... just remember, you aren't alone anymore. But, you don't have to worry about Kris anymore. She has friends, and family."
Heiro looks at Falcata, as if waiting for permission for something.
Post by: Telgin on January 14, 2012, 02:08:08 am
Her train of thought was broken by Kris bolting into the room and running up to her and Heiro.
"Mom! Come quick! Lilac... she-she ran off into he woods! She said she was going to become a diomedian!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:13:33 am
Heiro looks around frantically finally seeing Charity. running over to her he yells, "D-duchess it's Lilac, she ran off into the woods, all by herself!"
Post by: Khenal on January 14, 2012, 02:13:42 am
"Well, um... I was pleasantly distracted. Anyway, Otik, have you seen Lilac?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:20:13 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 02:21:21 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 02:22:51 am
"She what!? When? What direction? The jungle is crawling with Diomedians, we need to find her now! OTIK!"
Otik pokes her head from under Khenal's wings.
"Aye?"
"Lilac's gone into the jungle again. We need to go after her!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:23:08 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:25:10 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 02:25:37 am
"Khenal! Falcata! Osal! Madush! Get over here! We've got an emergency!" she yells into the crowd.
Post by: Kryptid on January 14, 2012, 02:27:05 am
What's going on? The party is canceled?
Post by: Khenal on January 14, 2012, 02:27:29 am
Post by: Telgin on January 14, 2012, 02:30:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 02:30:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:32:10 am
As her thoughts grow darker, her stride slackens and her movement slows.
Post by: The Master on January 14, 2012, 02:34:09 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:34:19 am
Post by: Kryptid on January 14, 2012, 02:35:07 am
"Umm..."
Forgefire decided that he would follow at a distance, to see where everypony was headed. Maybe it didn't concern him. Or maybe, there was some emergency that he could help with in some way.
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:35:32 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:38:31 am
Heiro hugs his little sis "Come on sis, this isn't your fault at all"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 02:40:21 am
"Alright, we've got a filly on her own in the jungle. Time is of the essence and we've got to hurry. Captain Otik."
She looks Otik dead in the eyes. "You've got to rally your skyguard and search from above. Madush, Osal you go with them."
She turns to the Commander, "Starkey, use the militia to begin combing the surface in whatever direction, Kris says she went. Keep at least one magic user in each group tell them to send up green sparks if they find her, red if they run into trouble."
She turns to her two most trusted friends, "Falcata, Khenal, we're going to help the ground search. Yes, I'm coming, no I won't hear any arguments, stay with me. Move OUT!"
Post by: Telgin on January 14, 2012, 02:42:00 am
Post by: Khenal on January 14, 2012, 02:44:24 am
I salute Charity and follow her .
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 02:44:39 am
Starkey beginds calling out names, and a steady stream of militia ponies begin to file out of the crowd.
"Down to the armory, lads! Get your gear set and head for the surface, move, move, move!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:45:34 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:50:00 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:53:18 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 02:56:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 02:57:46 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:01:06 am
Charity mumbles under her breath. "We aren't going to lose her. I owe Carrot that much at least."
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:03:01 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 03:05:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:08:23 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:10:55 am
Then Heiro speaks back.
"I'm giving you an order! Go inform your Captain, NOW!" Charity's face is contorted with fury.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 03:14:21 am
"Come along, Friesden. You can stay with me for now."
As he approache Friesden, he leans in to whisper to Hiero.
'I appreciate your concern for her, I really do, but she'll be alright with me. Please just do as the Countess says.'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 03:15:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:16:10 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:19:06 am
"Enjoy tonight Heiro, because if you don't get your act together right now, it's last one you'll have a free pony for a long time."
Charity gathers her friends and heads for the surface to begin the search.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 03:20:29 am
Heiro turns to Charity his entire demeanor changed, and his voice returning to normal. "I'll go and inform Isos of our current situation now" he throws a salute and runs off to inform his captain.
Post by: Telgin on January 14, 2012, 03:23:37 am
She tries to push the thought aside as she follows Charity up to the surface. Bad as that was, it paled in insignificance to finding Lilac.
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:26:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 03:27:29 am
"Again lad, thank you for being there for my daughter. Not many ponies are so kind to her. But... neither of us wants to see you hauled off in chains over it, understand?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 03:33:50 am
He looks Starkey directly in the eyes, "No-one will be allowed to harm my family, or cause them to come to harm. I will not lose another part of my family. Even if it would kill me. I. will. not. Lose. another. Understand?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:34:14 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:36:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 03:39:43 am
Starkey turns to follow the countess, then pauses.
"You know what? After you finish that, I want you topside with my party. I think it would help calm her nerves, but... Don't tell Isos that, aye? Just say I need you."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 14, 2012, 03:43:54 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:46:55 am
'Her family is getting more complicated all the time.'
"Yes, I guess that explains his behavior. It doesn't excuse it. But it explains it. But don't despair Friesden. We can find your sister yet, and your going to help us right?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 03:53:08 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 14, 2012, 03:54:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 14, 2012, 04:00:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 14, 2012, 04:10:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 15, 2012, 12:42:25 am
"So... 'big brother', eh?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 12:44:19 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 12:48:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 12:51:13 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 12:52:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 12:53:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 15, 2012, 12:53:55 am
"Well if that's everything, we should head out now. Sisters willing, she hasn't gotten far."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 12:54:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 12:58:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 15, 2012, 01:01:51 am
"Aye, ma'am. Right this way."
The party heads out the gates to where the others have gathered. Starkey points each team in a different direction. The first will head north, another will go south, while he will take his own team west, straight out the gate: he figured if Lilac didn't have any particular place to go, it was more likely she just headed straight on out.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 01:11:33 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 01:19:17 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 01:33:46 am
Plus, she had seen that emotion on Starkey's face when he heard Lilac was missing.She was certain it was no act. He was clearly more worried about helping Lilac than anything else at the moment, and she knew he couldn't bluff. Finally, he had much more experience in command of ponies like this; for all her power she was a glorified bureaucrat.
Despite her reservations, she knew trusting him was the best move if they wanted to find Lilac.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 01:44:31 am
Meanwhile, the ground based ponies split into small groups and began to search the jungles for any sign of her.
After about an hour of searching, with no sign of her, the group made up of Charity, Falcata, and Khenal spotted something moving ahead of them. But it was no little filly, it was much to big for that.
Out of the woods in front of them, came four Diomedians, lightly armoured but branishing deadly weapons. A Tetacle pony with a knife, two Keshis one with an axe and one with an iron scourage, and a darkbolt with a crossbow.
The Tentacle pony speaks, "Horrorshow smot hear droogs. We got ourself quite the lovet. That's the noble soomka herself, if I ain't mistaken."
((Translation: "Look here friends. We've got ourselves quite the catch. That's the noble bitch herself, if I'm not mistaken."))
Post by: Telgin on January 15, 2012, 02:03:40 am
She whips her hammer from its sling, brings it up to a ready position and looks back to Charity. "Get back!"
As she moves forward and begins to evaluate the enemies ahead of them, she cuts her eyes to Khenal. "Take the darkbolt, I'll keep these busy," she mutters to him.
Khenal nods and moves to square off with the darkbolt, who raises his crossbow and takes aim. A poorly aimed shot is quickly dodged, and Khenal lashes out with his spear. The blow grazes the diomedian's muzzle, rewarding Khenal with a small spurt of blood and a shouted curse from his foe. The darkbolt leaps into the air and frantically fishes for a bolt. Khenal gives chase.
The keshis move to circle Falcata. She deflects the axe blow with a parry from her hammer and dodges a strike from the scourge. A retaliatory swing of her hammer catches the axe keshi against the head with a satisfying crack, and he goes down hard. Falcata lets out a surprised grunt as another scourge strike rakes against her barding, gouging scratches into it and drawing blood from a deep scratch against her leg.
She backs away and reevaluates the scene. One down...
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 02:18:26 am
"I wouldn't do that if was you. Unless you want to lose your pretty malenky gulliver."
((I wouldn't do that if was you. Unless you want to lose your pretty little head.))
A smarmy tentacled pony whispers into her ear.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 02:33:23 am
that a tentacle pony had taken Charity hostage he draws his axe 'Alright sis, let's do this'
He slams into the side of Charity's attacker sending it reeling back, the knife falling away from Charity's neck.
"You OK Dutchess? I will deal with this one."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 02:39:27 am
The Diomedian pulls himself to his hooves.
"You bloody bastard. I'll kill you first, then the noble bitch." he yells before rushing Heiro, knife held with his magic and at the ready.
((For those who prefer your Diomedians to speak Nadsat what he actually said was,
"You krovvier bratchny. I'll oobivat you first, then the noble soomka."))
Post by: Telgin on January 15, 2012, 03:08:33 am
The remaining tentacle pony circles the two and tries to find an opportunity to jab his knife into Falcata's now-exposed underside, but pauses as the darkbolt crashes to the ground next to him in a heap. Khenal lands just to the side and readies his spear, prompting the tentacle pony to change targets.
With a frustrated shout, Falcata kicks the scourge pony away and grabs for her weapon. This keshi was better than she expected... she didn't have much chance to practice against weapons like this...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 03:30:21 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 03:34:18 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 03:38:33 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 03:41:07 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 03:47:15 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 03:55:44 am
Charity is too panicked to do much of anything. This isn't like with the fight with Couth, that time they'd started it, she'd had time to prepare mentally, but this, she was still too stunned to move.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 03:59:03 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 04:12:21 am
"Damn you're good. At least I can get your pretty little ruler, before I go. Consider it a parting gift."
He makes a gallop around to the right and around toward Charity, his weapon thirsty for blood. A warcry on his lips. "For Discord," he cries.
(("Damn you're dobby. At least I can get your pretty malenky ruler, before I itty. Consider it a parting gift."))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 04:15:32 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 04:21:41 am
"That hurts don't it, friend."
(("That hurts don't it, droog."))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 15, 2012, 04:36:45 am
Heiro turns and staggers over to Charity, he trows a wobbly salute, "C-corpral Heiro ma'am.... r-reporting for duty..." With those words Heiro collapses, the blood loss finally taking it's toll.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 15, 2012, 04:49:33 am
Then Heiro collapses in front of her. She snaps back to her senses. First she looks to Falcata, 'she's already dealt with two and the third is under control.' to the sky she sees Khenal, and the darkbolt, 'No doubt who'll win that.'
'I need to help Heiro.'
She goes over to him, and examines his wound. The knife cut deep and was pulled free in the wrestling. He's losing blood fast. "Damn it." Suddenly Charity remembers the signal, and blasts red sparks into the sky, 'somepony will see and come to help,'
But without waiting for help Charity's horn glows and a beige light forms over the wound creating a sort of magical bandage. "Hold on Heiro, help's coming."
Post by: The Master on January 15, 2012, 05:47:39 am
Post by: Telgin on January 15, 2012, 01:53:59 pm
The diomedian tries to jump to the side just as the blast hits, landing uncertainly on his hooves and falling over as they fall numb for a moment. Falcata siezes the moment and brings her hammer down, missing his head as he struggles to regain his footing but catching him squarely on the shoulders. Finally the keshi goes down, his spine smashed by the shattering strike.
Falcata turns to find Khenal finishing his duel with the tentacle pony, dodging a poorly aimed knife jab and returning in kind with his spear. The unnaturally sharp adamantine tip effortlessly slides through the pony's ramshackle armor and ribs, shredding his lungs with a single precise stab. Khenal withdraws the spear and brings the shaft around to crack the pony against the head. With the fight now gone from his body, the tentacle pony goes down with a choking wheeze and lay still.
Both turn to find that the battle behind them has ended. Charity was standing over the motionless body of Heiro, not far from the mangled remains of yet another tentacle pony.
"Lady Charity, are you..." She notices the blood leaking from Heiro. "Oh, no... Corporal Heiro..."
Khenal examines Heiro and frowns. "He's lost a lot of blood, we need to get him back quick. Fly him back maybe..."
Falcata nods gravely. "We haven't found Lilac yet, but he can't wait." She looks to Charity. "Orders, ma'am? Where is Captain Starkey? Maybe one of the militia can take him back while we keep looking..."
((Hope I'm not going too out of character for Khenal here. I'll be on the IRC tonight, but not right now. I must get more sleep...))
Post by: Dsarker on January 15, 2012, 02:10:31 pm
Before they can decide, the decision is made for them as Friesden, Starkey, and another militiapony burst onto the scene. Friesden lets out a cry and runs to Heiro.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 01:48:39 am
"Ah, Sisters... how bad is he?"
He gingerly picks up the tenatcle pony's dagger, carefully examining it for poisons.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 01:52:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 02:00:06 am
"I... I think it got his liver. He needs surgery before he bleeds out!"
She looks pleadingly to Starkey.
Meanwhile, I try to keep my focus and watch for anyone else showing up. This would be a very bad time for more Diomedians to show up.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 02:04:24 am
"Falcata's hurt too. Khenal can you carry Heiro? If he needs surgery we need to get him to the Hospital, quickly. Falcata, we should probably head back, so you can get those wounds looked at too."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 02:07:14 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 02:10:50 am
"Yes, you're... probably right. What about Lilac? Will the others keep searching for her?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 02:13:59 am
Starkey stares out into the depths of the jungle.
"I have to keep searching. Miss Charity, would you care to accompany us?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 02:17:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 02:19:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 02:28:25 am
"You stay safe as well, Friesden, and take care of Heiro. With you, I know he's in capable hooves."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 02:33:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 02:42:41 am
"Dammit, I'll be fine! Jus' pull it out an' slap a patch on it!"
"With all due respect, ma'am: It's an arrow. In your wing. You are not, by any means, fine!"
Despite their objections, she continues to struggle.
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 02:45:34 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 02:49:09 am
"Mom... did you find her?"
Falcata frowns and says nothing.
"Mom...?"
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 02:50:30 am
"So, I'll continue on the ground?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 02:55:49 am
- - - - - -
"Friesden? Aye, I'll be fine," Otik replies. She twists her neck around and grabs the shaft of the arrow in her teeth, snapping it with her jaws before sharply pulling it free. "Did ye find her? Is she alright?"
She turns back to Friesden, and finally notices the unconscious guardpony on her back.
"Luna's muscular flanks, issat... Hiero? Wot happened to 'im?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 02:57:25 am
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 03:09:30 am
"...Is magic really a virtue?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 03:10:04 am
- - - - - -
"Well, let's get him down t' th' doc."
She trots up beside Friesden, taking some of the weight on her own back.
"An' put a patch on this," she gestures at her wing, now beginning to bleed heavily, "So's I c'n get back out there."
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 03:12:43 am
"We're going to be fine," Falcata says to her, gesturing for her to step aside as everypony heads indoors and toward the hospital. Kris follows along, unwilling to let her mom or Mr. Heiro out of sight.
As they reach the hospital, Charity ensures that they're all settled in before hurrying off to fulfill her prior promise of directing from the tower.
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:23:45 am
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 03:26:13 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 03:35:40 am
- - - - - -
"Wot? No, Fri. I need t'be out there. I need t'find Lilac. Jus'... slap a bandage on it, an' I'll be fine."
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 03:40:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:45:27 am
Even as Friesden frantically pleads with her mother, they reach the hospital.
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 03:51:48 am
Kris looks away as she catches sight of the wounds on her mother's side and watches as the ponies begin to work on Heiro.
"Kris... you shouldn't be here right now, go on home and I'll come get you in a bit," Falcata says as she begins to rummage for medical supplies. No need to get the doctors involved over her with Heiro bleeding as bad as he was.
Kris shakes her head and sits. "No... it's okay, I want to make sure Mr. Heiro is okay."
Reluctantly Falcata agrees and returns to her searching. She didn't have time to argue right now.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 16, 2012, 03:53:50 am
"Dammit, my little filly is out there all alone in th' jungle, surrounded by Diomedians, badgerponies, an' goddesses know what else! I need..."
The blood loss and rapid movements combine, and a wave of dizziness sweeps over Otik.
"I need... ooh... I need t'sit down..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:54:23 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:08:35 am
"Heiro...Heiro needs a blood transfusion. I think I can do it...but my blood isn't the right type...I...I need somepony, an earthpony, to volunteer. Please?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:15:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:21:53 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:23:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:26:05 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:31:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:33:17 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:35:33 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:36:07 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:38:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:40:00 am
Friesden commences the transfusion.
All too soon, however, the blood showed the signs of refusal.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 04:57:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:58:39 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 05:01:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:02:45 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:04:34 am
She steps over to Heiro, her horn glowing a faint gold as a golden aura enshrouds Heiro. Oh, she hoped this was right! It... felt right.
Falcata looks up to Friesden, eyes wide and a strip of gauze in her mouth, mid-way through tearing it to apply to one of her cuts.
"Ekcfuse me?" she mutters through the gauze, unsure she wanted to believe what she just heard.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 05:05:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:06:24 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:08:41 am
"I... don't know... last time I tried this... it didn't...." She looks over to Friesden, fear and uncertainty in her eyes. "I don't want to hurt him more..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:09:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:13:10 am
Just like Khenal said, she reached out as if to levitate something with her magic, trying to feel for their minds instead of their bodies. She felt... something. Was that it? She really wished Khenal was here right now... sisters help her if she hurt Heiro or Friesden...
A violet glow enshrouds her horn and slowly bridges to Friesden and Heiro's foreheads. The world seems to go dark, and in an instant Falcata and Friesden feel their minds torn in a direction they didn't know existed.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 05:19:32 am
"What did you do! Something feels wrong, what has happened! Is Heiro alright? The voice seems strangely worried, sounding more fitting for hurling insults than worrying for others.
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 07:00:49 am
Post by: The Master on January 16, 2012, 11:59:00 am
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 02:46:24 pm
A piercing voice calls to her from behind, and she whirls about to face its source as Friesden bolts behind her. By ingrained instinct she takes up a defensive posture to protect Friesden as she takes in who is addressing them.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 03:00:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:01:41 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 03:06:57 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 03:36:08 pm
"Corporal Heiro was badly injured. He's being treated right now, but the doctor was afraid that the severe fever he suffered might have hurt his mind." She looks around at the environment, seeing nothing that looked particularly damaged, at least compared to last time. "I... brought us here to check."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:38:27 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 03:43:59 pm
He looks at Friesden "Who are you? I don't think I've seen you here before. Maybe you can help? Why does Heiro have a fever?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:51:07 pm
"H-he was hurt. By a diomedian like you, but a tentacle one. He got stabbed in the liver. He lost a lot of blood so we had to put some more into him. But he started getting ill from it."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 03:54:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 03:59:56 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:06:22 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:07:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 04:08:12 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:11:39 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 04:19:46 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:22:12 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 04:26:19 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:27:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 04:28:09 pm
'Not good!'
I rush as fast as I can towards the yell, hoping it's not just some Diomedian trap.
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:31:15 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 04:31:53 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:34:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:35:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 04:46:46 pm
"Heiro... how much do you remember about your past?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:48:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 04:52:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 04:52:45 pm
'Two Keshi, one with a crossbow and one with an axe. One Tentacle, with mace. Gotta hurry!'
My horn flashes as I throw my spear at the Keshi with the crossbow, hoping to even the odds at least slightly before the fight even begins. I zoom down to land, hoping to startle the Diomedians into leaving. Three on one is not a fight I think I can win, especially without my armor.
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 04:53:24 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 04:58:12 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 04:59:28 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:00:18 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:13:28 pm
She kneels next to Friesden and looks Heiro in the eyes from under her wings.
"Something... is wrong, Heiro. We can fix it, but we need you to help us. We think something that happened here in the past might be important to fixing it." She smiles at him. "Can you help us?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 05:16:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:19:33 pm
"Yes. We think you should, Heiro."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 05:24:51 pm
"U-Umm big sis, I-I need you to wake up"
Midnight stands and stretches, Looking over at the visitors "Oh? We have company? I'm glad" She walks over to Friesden "It's nice to finally meet you Friesden. What did you two need?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:29:51 pm
"We...we...Falcata has something to ask."
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 05:30:09 pm
'Buck, I missed!'
I take to the air again, levitating my spear after me, and charge the Tentacle pony with the mace, hoping to spear him while he's distracted.
'I need to whittle them down quickly, before that crossbow Keshi can reload!'
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 05:34:16 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:38:26 pm
"Uh... yes. Midnight..." Falcata steps over to her and looks up to the giant of a pony, and says in a low voice so that Heiro wouldn't overhear, "We... are trying to help Heiro. He's hurt, and something went wrong when we tried to treat him." She looks to the side nervously. How was she going to put this so that it didn't sound as crazy to Midnight as it did to her... "We... we think looking into his past... what happened at the village... might help." No need to bring up the darkbolt, hopefully Midnight would just go for it.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 05:41:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 05:46:19 pm
I'm too slow getting my spear out of the tentacle pony and take a viscous, but shallow, gash across my ribs. Finally freeing my spear, I start blocking the swings of the Keshi, thankful that those powerful blows are glancing off my spear and not me. As he takes another swing, I send a telekinetic blast at him form the side, hoping to topple him or at least get him off balance.
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:47:27 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 05:53:19 pm
Midnight turns to Heiro concern on her face. "You know that I won't be able to help you once I do this right? Once it starts it won't stop. you can't go back to not knowing... but if you're sure..." She steps onto her pedestal, "You both will take care of him yes? You won't be able to interfere, but you can still be there for him."
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 05:56:38 pm
"Of course, we'll do whatever we can."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 05:56:48 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 06:06:51 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 06:11:29 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 16, 2012, 06:12:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 06:16:05 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 16, 2012, 06:23:40 pm
His question is gut off with a sickening crunch as a mace slams into his head. standing behind him was the raider, holding his mase and grinning. "Now what do we have here, a little colt. Heh, you wont put up much of a fight will you, hardly worth it."
Heiro backs away, ducking down, and starts speaking to himself quietly. "This isn't right, it didn't happen this way, it's wrong. it's wrong, it's wrong." As he chants the scene seems to blur a bit, then settles, but the walls and furniture seem... cracked like they were going to fall apart.
Post by: Khenal on January 16, 2012, 06:28:51 pm
"Please be alright..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 16, 2012, 06:51:54 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 07:08:02 pm
Post by: The Master on January 16, 2012, 09:23:03 pm
Post by: Crazy Cow on January 16, 2012, 09:44:38 pm
Code: [Select]
08:03 Dsarker Complete and unabridged!
08:03 Light How do you do that, by the way?
08:03 Dsarker Client.
08:03 themaster Alright, so here's my reaction.
08:03 Light Nkay then q:
08:03 Dsarker Now, anything else you wanted?
08:04 themaster I do not want trouble, chaos, or conflicts.
08:04 Dsarker Good for you. I guess you've come to apologise for the conflict you caused, then?
08:04 Tarus We will gladly accept it.
08:04 themaster No.
08:04 themaster How dare you say that.
08:05 Dsarker ?*
08:05 Light themaster, you were pushing something that didn't need to be pushed. Secrets weren't being kept from anyone involved, and the secret woudn't have changed the game in any meaningful way.
08:05 Dsarker Also, quite easily.
08:05 Light You weren't involved in the scene. Why did you care? Why did you start all this?
08:06 themaster The rules were simple, discuss roleplay ideas in the chat.
08:06 Dsarker He had.
08:06 themaster NOT with all of us.
08:06 Light Everyone involved knew.
08:06 Tarus He discussed them with the people he had to.
08:06 themaster It's important to keep everyone informed.
08:06 Dsarker The rules didn't specify that at the time, nor did he fail to discuss it with anyone involved.
08:06 Light Not in this case.
08:06 themaster Not just select individuals.
08:06 themaster There's never a case.
08:06 Light It was a minor thing that didn't affect you in any way.
08:07 Light You were not wronged. At all.
08:07 themaster Then he shouldn't have over reacted.
08:07 Light You shouldn't have pushed it.
08:07 Light It's that simple.
08:07 mesa unless there is some grand scheme you hadn;t discussed with him yet?
08:07 Light It didn't matter.
08:08 themaster You're taking a very liberal perspective to this, whereas I'm simply stating that if someone can't abide by a simple rule, then said person is welcome to leave.
08:08 themaster It's that simple.
08:08 Light sighs.
08:09 Light It isn't that simple.
08:09 Light The rules don't matter if pushing them will create arguments and conflict like htis.
08:09 Light In cases where everyone is affected? Yes.
08:09 Light In a minor scene where one of the characters wants to drop a bit of a surprise? No.
08:10 themaster It's a small group, unlike here.
08:10 Tarus He did follow the rule by discussing it. Nowhere is it stated that it has to be discussed with everyone, just that is has to be discussed which he did. Now that doesn't matter because you did push him.
08:10 Light You weren't involved. Strongbeard wasn't involved. *Why did you care?*
08:10 Tarus Or at least. Care so much to nag him about it repeatedly until it upset him?
08:11 themaster He gets upset very easily, you cannot deny that.
08:11 Light But you provoked him.
08:11 Light We have the logs.
08:12 themaster I know I did.
08:12 Tarus Then you should've known better then to provoke him.
08:12 themaster I did so, because he wasn't being compliant.
08:12 Light But it didn't matter!
08:12 Light You *know* he's sensitive to that kind of thing.
08:12 Light It was an unimportant thing to push.
08:12 Light *WHY* did you do it?
08:13 Tarus Nothing's worth angering anyone. Especially if it's as insignificant as this.
08:13 themaster This conversation is redundant.
08:14 Bristle Did we die?
08:14 Light You're losing.
08:14 Light Full retreat to save face.
08:14 Tarus No.
08:14 themaster All I can say is this, if any of you from glitterglen here want to quit, then feel free.
08:14 themaster This conversation is terminated.
08:14 *** themaster left #NeonCaballusEvangelionA very good reason, indeed.
Post by: The Master on January 16, 2012, 09:54:54 pm
Post by: TheBronzePickle on January 16, 2012, 10:00:04 pm
Post by: The Master on January 16, 2012, 10:08:06 pm
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 10:42:10 pm
Post by: jaxler on January 16, 2012, 10:46:52 pm
Wait, why are you evicting someone instead of Kingstrongbeard? IT is his thread...
((cuz maybe he is just telling us what kingstrongebeard said))
Post by: Powder Miner on January 16, 2012, 10:48:25 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 16, 2012, 10:57:51 pm
Yes, Jax has been banned from the IRC. Yes, themaster reported it here, but me and him agree on it. It is due, in part, to Jax's repeated outbursts, in the IRC. We were both tired of it. From what I have gathered, it seems like Dsarker is quitting over this as well, and that saddens me. I hope Dsarker changes his mind, and if he does so he is welcome back. But regardless Glitterglen will go on with or without them.
I ask that those not affiliated with Glitterglen (namely those from NCE), refrain from posting here about what transpired on the IRC, as this is not the place for that, and that it will cause more harm then good, regardless of your intentions, however good they might be. If we must argue let's not do it on Bay12. Please.
Despite the unfortunate turn of events this night, Glitterglen is still salvageable, and I don't want to lose it. The show will go on.))
EDIT: ((The above information is no longer accurate. Due to a tense discussion on the IRC a compromise has been reached. Jax is being welcomed back on a probational basis, and with this agreement, Dsarker will also be staying. We hope to avoid all such internet drama in the future. On with the show.))
Post by: Telgin on January 17, 2012, 02:10:02 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 17, 2012, 03:53:58 am
The raider stepped forward raising his mace, "Just hold still scum, this won't hurt... much."
"Not right, not right, NOT RIGHT, NOT RIGHT!" The room's walls crack and the scene blurs again. Then, with a sound like breaking glass, the entire scene shatters away. Underneath is another room... the same room, with the same sounds... but one major difference.
On the ground, the raider lay, dead. And there, raising his mace, was a brilliantly white pegasus stallion. "Pray to whatever gods you have Diomedian scum! You will die here!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 03:56:19 am
Post by: Telgin on January 17, 2012, 04:03:08 am
And who was this pegasus killing his family?
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 04:05:11 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 17, 2012, 04:44:41 am
"You exist what more reason do we need? All of you are just filthy diomedians, this land belongs to the principality now." The stallion swings his mace around crushing the keshi's skull. the keshi collapses, her axe dropping in front of Heiro. "Haha, this is too easy! Well little keshi? What are you going to do? You think you can lift that axe? How about this, I'll turn around for a second, let's see how fast you run. Haha."
The pegasus steps back, and turns around Chuckling all the while. Heiro squirms free of Friesdens grip and Grabs the fallen axe, leaping upon the pegasus. the blade came down directly on the pegasus' neck, severing it's head in one strike. Heiro didn't stop however, the axe flashed again and again, until what was left of the pegasus soldier looked more like the leftovers from a butchers shop than a pony.
the scene blurs again, everything disappears, Except for the Raider, standing in the doorway. Heiro walks over to him "F-father? I-I didn't remember you."
"Don't worry Heiro, you remember now, that's what matters. Your sister has done a fine job of keeping you safe, and your other family." He looks at the two mares, "Thank you for helping Heiro, and for trusting me. I believe the reason the blood made Heiro sick is clear now? I would offer to answer your questions, I'm sure you have a few, but I think you have more important things to deal with now."
Heiro runs back over to Friesden giving her a big hug and cuddling under her wings again, "I guess you have to go now, bit you'll come back right?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 04:48:08 am
Post by: Telgin on January 17, 2012, 12:53:42 pm
She averts her eyes back to the darkbolt in the doorway and adds, "Yes. I think it is clear now why it went wrong. I do have questions, but I don't think there is time."
She steps over to Friesden and Heiro, crouches next to him and says, "I'm sorry Heiro, but we do have to go. Thank you for showing this to us, it has been most helpful." Her eyes track back up to Friesden's and she sees the horror on the mare's face. Friesden spooked easily, but this would probably have been enough to frighten most anypony who hadn't seen as much combat and death as she had. And regardless, now that they knew what was wrong with Heiro, they had to get back. Fast. Maybe there would still be time to help him.
A violet glow enshrouds her horn as she stands and takes a step back. The world shifts and fades around them, and once again Falcata and Friesden feel their minds torn across an imperceptible boundary. Falcata opens her eyes to find that they have returned to the hospital, along with an intense pounding in her head and another bout of nausea that slowly began to fade.
((I assume that was where we wanted to just cut it off. I'll be in the IRC later today as usual. PM me if you'd rather I adjust something before then.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 03:26:52 pm
"I-I-I-I have to...have to go!"
She runs out into the corridor, looking for Khenal or Starkey.
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 03:32:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 03:38:19 pm
"Don't let me do it stop me please I don't want to please stop me!"
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 03:55:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 03:56:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 03:59:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 04:00:50 pm
Post by: The Master on January 17, 2012, 04:25:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 04:39:22 pm
"Shh, it'll be alright, Friesden. I trust you to not hurt him, or anypony."
******************************
I don't want to see you go, Themaster. But if that's what you feel you need to do, I wish you the best of luck as well.
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 04:42:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 05:52:52 pm
"I... I'm pretty sure I'll be alright. There were a few Diomedians who ambushed this poor guy. I think he's in worse condition than I am. But ya, we should probably get to the hospital."
Post by: Dsarker on January 17, 2012, 05:57:53 pm
Friesden helps the two to the hospital.
Post by: Telgin on January 17, 2012, 09:54:45 pm
"Mom? Is... is he going to be okay?" Kris asks, prodding her gently.
She wished she knew, but of course there was only one thing to say to that. "Of course... he's going to be fine." She turns her attention to Venture. "Um, nurse, we... need keshi blood. I... I need to go find out if we have any prisoners..."
She takes a quick look at Kris and says, "Kris, stay here, or run on home. I... I'll be back soon."
((Not trying to drag this out... but I wish you the best of luck too, The Master. I didn't want to see you go either.))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 17, 2012, 10:12:32 pm
"Wot did she mean by that? Why would Hiero be needin' Keishi blood?"
Post by: Khenal on January 17, 2012, 11:05:21 pm
"My blood is wrong, the magic isn't right for him. With some Keshi blood, corrupted Earth Pony blood, we might be able to restore the balance in his system."
Post by: Telgin on January 18, 2012, 12:05:41 am
Falcata trots through the halls as fast as she can without bumbling into anypony and without undue pain from her fresh wounds. She spies a hauler dragging a cage containing what was surely a diomedian of some variety, minus wings or an obvious tentacle, and flags him down with a wave of her hoof.
"Hey! I... need this pony brought to the hospital. There's no time to explain, lives are at stake."
The hauler looks at her quizically for a moment, but recognizes her and obeys. "Alright, if you say so."
Inside the cage, the keshi pony glares and snarls at her, throwing himself against the side of the cage to get as close as he can. "...lives at stake indeed... let me out of here and you'll see what lives are at stake..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 01:43:42 am
Post by: Telgin on January 18, 2012, 02:14:57 am
The hauler places the cage next to the bed as she directs, bids them farewell and trots off to the surface to help reset the trap that was sprung. Falcata looks at the prisoner and tries to think of how they would get the blood out of him without killing him. That wouldn't do well given the circumstances... A thought enters her mind. It was worth a try...
The keshi leans against the side of the cage and narrows his eyes at her. "What are you gonna do now, huh? Gonna cut me apart in some experiment? You're more twisted than-"
The keshi's words end in a grunt as Falcata blasts him with a stunning pulse of magic, as strong as she could manage. Despite her hopes he just slumps to the ground, coughing weakly and blinking lethargically. Didn't work... try again... Another flash and the pony lets out a pained sigh and goes still, save for shallow breathing. Good, she didn't have the strength for a third try.
"Um... okay... I think he'll stay down for a while. Anypony want to try the transfusion now?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 02:19:13 am
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 02:23:20 am
"Yes, always."
Venture levitates the transfusion device, ready to take Friesden's direction.
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 02:26:03 am
"That one there, that one there. Okay...this should work..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 02:42:45 am
"Miss Venture? They told me Otik was brought down here. What happened? Is she well?"
"Captain? Yes, the lieutenant is here. She was shot through the wing, and she lost a lot of blood..."
Starkey grows pale at these words.
"But she should be fine. She wanted to go back out and keep looking, but I managed to convince her to lie down."
Venture steps a little closer, lowering her voice.
"Did... did you find her?"
"...No. Thunderstorm blew in from the west. Can't see ten yards in any direction, and it looks like it's settling in for the night. I... I hate the thought of leaving her out there in this weather, but we just can't keep it up like this."
Post by: Telgin on January 18, 2012, 03:10:36 am
Then Captain Starkey enters the hospital and begins to speak with Venture. They... hadn't found Lilac. Deep down inside... she wasn't surprised, but she couldn't suppress the despair growing inside her. The poor filly... why had she run off like this?
Kris steps over to her mother and looks up to her, the semblance of tears beginning to form in her eyes.
"Mom... they... they're going to find her... right?"
Falcata tries to smile and nod, but it comes off as a quivering lip and a weak attempt at maintaining her composure. "It's going to be alright... it's going to be alright..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 03:25:29 am
Tears that had previously threatened to break the mighty dams surrounding them flooded forth with renewed vigour.
Tears streaming down her face, she runs to her father.
"But...but....but... No! No! NO!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 03:34:09 am
"I-It's... okay... the s-storm will pass, and we'll go out, and we'll f-find her and... it'll be okay... it'll... be..."
'Who the clop am I kidding?'
Lilac had walked out into the middle of a raider-infested wilderness. They're in a jungle: it could go on raining for days, or weeks. If the wildlife didn't get her, the Diomedians would. And if they didn't kill her... a small part of him almost prayed that they would.
Starkey buries his face in Friesden's mane, sobbing uncontrollably.
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 03:39:03 am
"Why! I was almost happy! Why?!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 03:45:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 03:47:35 am
"Why? Why...why can't I have happiness? Why does it always have to be like this? Why?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 03:51:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 03:54:12 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 03:56:38 am
Wherein the deep night sky,
The stars lie in Her embrace.
The courtyard still in its sleep,
And peace comes over your face.
'Come to me,' She sings.
'Hear the pulse of the land.
The ocean's rhythms pull,
To hold your heart in its hand...'
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 03:58:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 04:09:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 04:10:59 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 04:29:54 am
"Fri... Hiero needs ye... yer big brother needs ye right now."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 04:33:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 04:38:09 am
"He's a..."
"Keshi? H-How..."
"What do ye mean? He willnae hurt ye."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 04:39:34 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 04:45:44 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 04:48:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 04:57:59 am
Starkey looks down at her.
"Friesden... I have something... to tell you."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:02:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:03:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:04:41 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:09:54 am
As he speaks, Friesden notices something... odd. Something she had never noticed before, and could only now see up close. Whenever Starkey opened his mouth, she could see them: four short, blunt canines.
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:12:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:14:20 am
She can see them clearly now: not quite fangs, but nearer to it than a normal pony's teeth should be.
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:16:27 am
Friesden tries to back away from Starkey, a combination of fear and horror in equal parts upon her face.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:20:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:22:03 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:29:51 am
Otik tightens her hold on Friesden just a bit.
"I know yer afraid, hun... but I'm right here. I'll stay right here, and I'll make sure ye dunnae hurt him. Okay?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:31:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 18, 2012, 05:34:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 06:03:44 am
Friesden slowly begins to stir, her head warm and comfortable nestled deep in Khenal's wing. Her back is covered in Otik's wing, and as she wakes, she fights the desire to stay deep within and not move again.
Post by: The Master on January 18, 2012, 07:21:44 am
Post by: Powder Miner on January 18, 2012, 12:58:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 05:14:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 05:22:42 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 18, 2012, 07:44:20 pm
Today, was far to emotional. I am exhausted. Early this afternoon, I went and found Khenal and Falcata in the barracks, and they bowed to me, again. I told them not to do that, that they were my friends and that my friends bow to nopony. I then gave Khenal his present, that wonderful spear, I had made just for him. Then he hugged me. He's such a wonderful stallion,
We then went to the party. Everypony was there. I talked to Thundersplinter, we haven't talked much since Falcata hammered her during the amulet incident, but it's good to know that we can still be friends. I talked to Starkey, he apologized for his actions that night. I didn't expect him to ever do that. We talked and, well, it's difficult to trust him, but after what happened next. I think I'll try.
While I was still talking with the Commander, Heiro ran up saying that Kris told him that Lilac Joker had gone off into the jungle. We mobilized a search. I saw Heiro slacking off talking with Friesden, so I ordered him to go inform Isos, so she could get the guard ready to help, but he back talked me. We started shouting at each other in the hall. I didn't want to waste the time, so I told him to do it or he'd be in a cell tomorrow. He finally relented and did his job, only after Friesden begged him.
We began the search and after about an hour, Khenal, Falcata, and I were ambushed by 4 Diomedians. Falcata and Khenal charged forward and engaged them, and they were winning, but a 5th one came up behind me and put a knife to my neck just as I was about to call for help. I thought I was done for when Corpural Herio rushed out of nowhere and knocked the tentacle pony away. They fought and Heiro won, but he had a bad stab wound, and was bleeding out. I signaled for help, and tried to control the bleeding as best I could. Starkey and Friesden arrived, and Friesden carried Heiro back to the hospital, Khenal accompanied Starkey to continue the search, and Falcata and I returned to town. Falcata had a few cuts from the ambush, and I thought it best to stay behind and manage things from the tower, as best I could.
Unfortunately, a couple more ponies got hurt, including Khenal. But they are all expected to recover. Worse yet though, a storm has set in and crippled visibility, Starkey has called off the search, I can't imagine it was easy for him. Lilac, is gone.
I'm, going to give the family some time off work to grieve. They deserve it.
Charity's Journal 15th Galena, 100
The zebra's sent more of their kind this year, but they came not with arms and armor, but with wagons of goods to trade, and a diplomat to discuss terms for peace.
Naturally, I also wished to end this senseless fighting. The war is over.
Trade for the fortress was impossibly good. We acquired, metal bars, gems, several bags of sand, a couple barrels of drink, and many bins full of leather and cloth, along with some copper and iron armor, and two steel anvils for only one dress. Yes, all that for ONE dress. True the dress was decorated with rubicelle gems, and it was midnight blue dyed cave spider silk, but still that seemed almost too good of a deal, I gave them a few pig tail fiber bandannas, dyed emerald green, as an additional parting gift.
Charity's Journal 18th Galena, 100
A pair Keshi thieves where caught in a pair cage traps just on the south side of the river.
Charity's Journal 22nd Galena, 100
(The page is covered with tears and coated in spilled ink.)
Charity's Journal 23rd Galena, 100
There was a Diomedian ambush yesterday, they came out of the woods, and killed Thundersplinter. As she was being attacked, all the military ponies charged, trying to save her. The leader of the attack, a tentacle pony with a terrible iron whip, was chasing her, but when he saw the militia coming he tried to flee, right into a trap meant to catch large animals. We've yet to decide what to do with him. Another, a Keshi, didn't run, and he, he did terrible things to her, before he killed her. He cut her in her legs, and her back, and then he bit her mouth and shook her around, like he was trying to tear her face from her skull, before he struck her in the head with his axe killing her.
It was Ironya's son Buble, who killed the murderer, stabbed him in the head with that spear Ironya made him.
The rest of the fight was simple enough, one of the new recruits has a few minor injuries, but they're little more than scratches.
17th Sandstone 100
Bebmal a fisherpegasus, has been possessed by /something/ on his way back from fishing. He ran up to the leatherworks and barricaded the door.
__________________________________________________________________________________
On the morning of the 18th of Sandstone, of the year 100, Starkey and Otik awaken to find a pair of packages addressed to them. Both packages are relatively small, and unassuming.
One has a tag which reads.
To: Captain Otik
You are a better pony than I knew. I should not have doubted you. Use this to protect your family. Keep them safe.
Inside is The Violet Glaze
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Violet%20Glaze.png)
The other package reads.
To: Commander Starkey
Forgive me for doubting your Honesty. May you always return home safety.
And inside is a stunning suit of chain mail, of the highest caliber, decorated, with only the most choice materials. To hold it, in one's hooves, it is impossibly light, yet stronger than a dragon's scales. It is perfection.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Starkey%27s%20Shirt.png)
Charity's Journal 21st Sandstone, 100
10 more ponies have moved to Glitterglen, that brings our total population up to 133.
This wave contained.
Female Pegasus Mason
Female Royal (No useful skills.)
Male Earthpony spinner (married to the one below)
Female Earthpony planter
Female Royal Architect (married to the below and mother to the foal)
Male Pegasan soap maker
Male earthpony foal
Male Unicorn wood burner/furnace operator
Female Earthpony animal dissector
Female Unicorn Fisherpony
26th Sandstone, 100
Our possessed fisher pony has created a hood of leather, decorated with crystal glass and diomedian bone. It's wonderful, but unfortunately he can't remember making it. So, it's back to fishing for him.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Lucid%20Denomination.png)
1st Timber, 100
The smiths have long complained about the walk up and down the stairs from the forges to the dinning hall. Hopefully, starting today, I won't have to listen to that as much, as we've set up a new dinning room for the smiths on the same floor as the forges. Forgefire was commissioned to make the nickle silver chairs, and black bronze tables for the room, he did a good job on them, the room looks great. A few engravings on the wall and it'll be open for business.
12th Timber, 100
No sooner than had a cave pony caravan been spotted, when a group of Diomedians, with warhammers, save for their leader who brandished a curved sword, lept from hiding, and attacked, them. The cave pony merchants fought valiantly, the slippy who lead them webbed the diomedians, while they were pelted with poisoned tipped darts by his companion, a gorlack pony, and their guard, an enormous pony with a huge mane, bashed them with his mace, but he was mortally wounded in the fight.
Unfortunately, it seems that the loss of two of their compatriots has driven them mad. They are just running around babbling, on the surface. I'll have to ask Starkey and Isos, for advice, but they're busy chasing Parasprites away from the surface crops. I've set up Otik and Falcata's squads on the surface to guard the gate, in case of more raiders, while the militia and the guard deal with these blasted bugs.
1st Moonstone, 100
Winter has come. Or at least that's what the calendar I bought from the caravan last year says. A couple of parasprites got stuck in our cage traps. I'm not sure what the best thing to do with them at this point is. The merchants are still insane, but they aren't hostile. We've taken some of the equipment that they have abandoned.
4th Moonstone, 100
Cryptson has asked Falcata, for him to be admitted into the Ducal Guard, as a new recruit. Seems strange to me, as a member of my family he is one of those the Guard is meant to protect, but he's strong, and a good fighter, and his argument is that he's capable of protecting himself just fine. Falcata seemed a little confused over it, but she's happy to have him on board. However, it seems that Cryptson, and the others, have decided to make me train with them. Trying to teach me some self-defense just in case I need to protect myself, and after the incident with the tentacle pony in the jungle, I think they have a point.
12th Moonstone, 100
The insane merchant left at the usual time, still babbling, but they wandered off into the jungles, back the way they came. Probably, not sending the best image of us to the cave ponies, assuming they make it back home at all.
2nd Opal, 100
Little Daringsky is all grown up. It seems like only yesterday that he was born, and now he's out there in the jungle hunting to put food on the tables of Glitterglen. Oh how time flies. My little Adamant, will be grown too soon enough. It's sad to watch them grow up and leave you, but it's a happy kind of sad, because you know that they are going on to do great things.
6th Opal, 100
Adamant, is fully grown, and he looks so much like his father. Tall with a dark indigo coat. He's decided to follow his father into the mining profession, and we've arranged an apprenticeship for him with the miners here in Glitterglen.
14th Opal, 100
Our first run of the garbage disposal system has been successful.
15th Opal, 100
A strange occurrence has taken place. The rabbits have all vanished from the fields. Nopony has seen them since yesterday
16th Opal, 100
Using ashes somepony has written on the walls nearby the garbage incinerator “Bouncing Baby Bunnies Burning Brightly.” All the rabbits are still missing. We suspect foul play.
((Yes, I magma'd all the rabbits. I was tired of all them, and baby bunnies don't give any meat so I just wanted to get rid of them. But the mother and father of the hoard were somepony's pets, so I pastured them with the garbage and magma'd their pretty little heads off. No I don't have any plans for the mysterious bunny burner. But feel free to run with it. If you want.))
3rd Obsidian 100
Two of our prisoners, a Keshi theif, and the Tentacled lasher who lead Thundersplinter to her death, have been killed. I did not witness their demise, but it seems that Heiro of the Fortress Guard was sparring with them, and Osal and Madush saw them fighting, assumed a jailbreak and shot the Diomedians dead. Commander Starkey and Heiro seemed unjustifiably upset about this, but have mostly let it go as an honest misunderstanding. However, I want to know one thing. Who authorized Heiro to take the prisoners out and give them weapons! Because I most certainly would not have. I'll have to talk to him and make sure he knows that that is unacceptable behavior. We do not spar with honor-less raiders, and brigands who wish death to everypony in Glitterglen. They should have been executed months ago.
((In game I let Heiro beat on them for about a month with a wooden axe. When I decided that it was taking to long and he'd been kicked in the guts a few times already, I stationed Osal and Madush outside the arena, and they fired through the fortifications finishing them off. Then Heiro immediately went to sleep on the floor. If you write out the details Jax, feel free to use or ignore as much of that as you want. The beatings took Heiro from Novice to Proficient Axepony. That makes him as good with an axe as Khenal is with a spear, though Khenal's other combat skills are better, and Starkey could beat both of their flanks, with his good wing tied behind his back.))
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 08:20:18 pm
"Mmm, Friesden..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 08:22:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 08:31:43 pm
"Mmm, Good morning, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 08:32:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 08:58:29 pm
"I knew you could save him."
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 09:04:26 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 18, 2012, 09:09:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 18, 2012, 09:10:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 01:12:39 am
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 01:18:50 am
"Looks like your Mom is awake, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 01:26:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 01:34:45 am
"Mmm... mornin', sunshine. Feelin' better?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 01:37:45 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 01:41:14 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 01:44:42 am
"Well it sounds like yer big brother's gonna be okay."
She plants a kiss on Friesden's cheek.
"Y'saved another pony, Fri. I'm proud o' ye."
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 01:46:08 am
"So am I."
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 01:47:45 am
The two walk in as Heiro stirs. Kris steps over to his bed and watches as he wakes, but doesn't say anything yet. Falcata takes a look at him, relieved that he was seemingly well, then turns her attention to the knot of ponies. Seemed like she got here just in time.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 01:48:29 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 01:50:17 am
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 19, 2012, 01:50:44 am
Where the sun is below the horizon lighting the world with an eternal morning twilight;
Under-lighting pony-shaped clouds with a golden rosy glow.
There is an infinite field of dew-laden grasses as soft as clouds and;
Filling the air with the heady scent of midnight berry wine.
Whirlwinds of brightly coloured butter-pegasi erupt from the grasses and;
Swirl about with the gentle breezes.
A filly, about to come of age, gambols through one such whirlwind;
The butter-pegasi buffet her with their wings in a playful game;
Her head and tail high as the cool, crisp wind tousles her mane.
Her name is ThunderSplinter and she is at peace - unfettered, carefree and;
Untroubled by the woes of the world left behind;
A world and a life little more than a fading memory.
Is this Heaven? Certainly for ThunderSplinter, it is.
Where the clouds remind her of beloved friends;
Where the golden morning will never wane;
Where the night shall never hold sway.
Somewhere...
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 01:53:05 am
Falcata steps over and adds a smile of her own. "Good morning. You look a lot better, how are you feeling?"
((That's awesome, Darkening Kaos. Darn you... I'm this close to tearing up here!))
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 01:53:48 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 01:57:35 am
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 01:59:54 am
******************************
Nice post, Darkening. Thundersplinter deserves Heaven.
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 19, 2012, 02:05:14 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:05:53 am
((And made it up you have. Very nice.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:07:33 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 02:08:22 am
She leans in a little closer and lowers her voice slightly. "I... can't speak for everypony of course... but I don't think it's a big deal... and you don't have to tell anypony else if you want to... I won't if you don't want me to."
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 02:11:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:14:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:21:31 am
"I remember, hun. I wos there. But... those ponies were raiders. They were goin' t'kill us all. Hiero an'... yer father... they love ye. I dunnae think ye'll hurt 'em."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:24:16 am
New tears are threatening to conquer and pass through her eyes.
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 02:26:10 am
"You wont."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:27:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:32:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:33:56 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 02:34:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 02:35:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:36:34 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 02:37:08 am
"Oh, captain?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:38:47 am
"I-It's... quite alright, Hiero. I, uh, I understandandIreallyoughttobegoingnow."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:39:47 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 02:40:42 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:43:03 am
He hears Friesden asking for him.
"F-Friesden? You want to talk... to me?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:45:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:48:44 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 02:51:36 am
"Uh... I..."
Kris breaks the awkwardness by saying, "Um, are you okay, Mr. Heiro?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:52:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:55:09 am
"I-I... Frie-... I'm..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 02:56:16 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 02:56:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 02:59:57 am
"Friesden! I'm so sorry! I'm sorry for scaring you! Please...can you forgive me? I'm sorry!"
As he - well, they finish, he looks up at Friesden in stunned silence. Finally, he manages:
"I... what?"
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:01:05 am
Falcata sits and tries to think of something meaningful to add. It wasn't much... "It's alright, corporal... we don't care that you're a keshi pony. That doesn't change anything."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 03:02:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:05:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 03:09:54 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:10:02 am
After all, the diomedians had done less to her family than "regular" ponies. Not necessarily true of everypony else in Glitterglen, though.
Kris makes a small smile. He just seemed like a normal pony to her. "Uh, yeah, what mom said."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 03:12:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:13:35 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 03:21:04 am
Starkey is momentarily overcome with tears of joy.
"I... oh Friesden, I want to hold you... can I hold you, please?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:22:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:23:05 am
And she'd best not hear anything bad coming from this among the guard. She wasn't in the guard anymore, strictly, but she could probably get Isos to do something about it.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 03:24:25 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:26:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 03:27:21 am
"Oh F-Friesden... I'm so sorry... I love you so much..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:29:34 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 03:56:48 am
"And so... does this mean you're okay to... be around Hiero too? so long as Khenal and your mum are there?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:58:35 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 04:01:48 am
"Would ye like... t'go ahead an' give it a try now? I'm sure he'd love t'see his lit'l sis right now."
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 04:04:15 am
"I think he might like to thank you for saving him, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:06:01 am
"How are you doing big bro-" she starts, but cuts off when she sees her brother's face. The eye sockets are empty and the flesh removed. All that stares back is a grinning skull, and she can hear the buzzing of flies.
She screams, and falls to the ground, thrashing.
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 04:11:45 am
"Friesden!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 04:14:25 am
"Friesden! What's-"
Otik holds out a hoof, stepping between them.
"No, Stars. You cannae help 'er."
"...But she-"
"It's not yer fault, hun. I'm not angry. It's just th' way it is. Please, stand back."
"I... you're right."
Starkey sullenly, reluctantly obeys, placing himself in a corner away from Friesden.
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 04:15:45 am
I fall out of bed and limp towards her, horn glowing as I try to levitate her so she can't hurt herself.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:17:42 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 04:17:52 am
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 04:25:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:29:59 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 04:56:21 am
"Khenal... wot's wrong with her? She was fine only a moment before, an' she seemed perfectly okay t'see Hiero. Wot happened?"
She ponders for a moment.
"Ye dunnae think it could be... another daemon, do ye?"
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 05:13:22 am
I turn my head to Falcata. "Falcata! I think I'll need your help as well. Having somepony with experience in a mindscape would be a load off my... well, mind."
They both nod agreement and I start preparing the link spell. It gets more complicated with more minds, so I close my eyes to concentrate.
From under Heiro's bed, however, comes an adorable little complication in the form of Kris. Her horn glows softly with her anesthesia spell as she slowly approaches the still-flailing Friesden. Falcata notices her a fraction of a second before one of Friesden's legs connects with the side of Kris' head.
"Kris!"
The shout forces my eyes open in a flash, and seeing Kris knocked away by Friesden shatters my concentration. The spell goes out of control. The last thing I see before blacking out is a few beams of magic seeming to cast around, looking for something, or somepony.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 05:13:51 am
As they pass by the mirrors, their reflections are warped. Not shorter, not taller, not thinner, not fatter. No, the reflections are more unnatural than these. When Heiro is reflected, the mirror shows a young white alicorn. Khenal's appearance is replaced by that of a former alicorn familiar to all there.
Falcata stares into her reflection, and the eyes that stare back are full of greed and avariciousness. Next to her, Otik's reflection licks its lips and stares right through Otik, to Khenal, or Heiro, or Starkey, or Falcata.
Starkey's reflection is not the pegasus familiar to all, but a looming shadowbolt, wings and fangs in full display. The fangs are still marked with what appears to be blood.
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 05:24:12 am
"Farquaad..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 05:28:34 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 05:31:42 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 05:31:48 am
"No... tha's wrong, I'd never... not like that..."
Starkey is frozen in place, staaring up at the specter in the mirror in shock and dismay.
"...D-Dad?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 05:51:22 am
Heiros hooves start to shake with anger. "She's my family, I will protect her through everything... this reflection isn't me... and it isn't what my little sis should see me as. Not what anypony should see me as... why... WHY! ARE! YOU! HERE! WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT!" Heiro yells out as he hammers at the mirror, striking with all his anger. Punctuating every shouted word with a rage fueled strike of his hoof.
Post by: The Master on January 19, 2012, 07:57:09 am
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 01:16:10 pm
((Is everypony together or are we isolated?))
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 01:20:22 pm
The white seems to fade into a light shade of indigo, his mane and tail a pale blue.
((all together.))
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 02:18:22 pm
These couldn't just be the antitheses of what Friesden thought of them. That wouldn't make any sense for Heiro... or Khenal. Did... did she really think of them this way?
Heiro's outburst snaps her out of her trip through her thoughts, as the mirror shatters noisily. Her eyes go wide with fear.
"Corporal! We've got to be careful, we-we can cause a lot of damage in here!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 02:28:11 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:08:11 pm
Her attention turns to Khenal. Maybe Heiro was on to something, but he would know. She wasn't about to smash anything without his approval. "Khenal, what do you make of this?"
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 03:16:04 pm
"He... he might be onto something. Take it slow, though."
I turn back to my own reflection, seeing Farquaad again. It might not be the real thing, but putting my hoof through his face still makes me feel a little better.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:18:04 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:23:00 pm
She rears back and brings her weight down onto the mirror with both hooves.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:24:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 03:47:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 03:53:04 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 04:01:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:12:52 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 04:36:15 pm
"Not dad then, eh? You look like him... because you look like me."
"...no," He whispers, "You're not like me."
He braces himself against the glass as he raises the other hoof to strike.
"You're just another barbarian, come to hurt my little girl."
Beside him, Otik twirls around in place, bucking the lecherous reflection with all her might.
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:38:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 04:40:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:42:43 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 19, 2012, 04:54:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 04:55:02 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 09:41:16 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 09:43:28 pm
"I hope that was right. And I hope we're ready for whatever is next.
I slowly open the door.
Post by: Kryptid on January 19, 2012, 09:45:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 09:49:42 pm
Post by: The Master on January 19, 2012, 10:02:18 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 10:09:27 pm
Then she sees Kris' rotting body sprawled next to her. She lets out a horrified shriek and dances away from the corpse of her daughter, backing away and halting as she stumbles into everypony else.
She gasps and tries to catch her breath, suddenly feeling as if she'd galloped a marathong. Her heart thunders in her chest, and she looks down, shuts her eyes and places a hoof across them.
"It's... it's not real... it's not real..." she intones to herself. She keeps her eyes shut and tries to level her breathing, not wanting to look anypony else there in the eye. It was fake... why should a grown mare, a soldier at that, react like this to something she knew wasn't real...
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 10:12:36 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 19, 2012, 10:14:46 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 10:14:57 pm
"So much death... why?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 19, 2012, 10:17:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 19, 2012, 10:25:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 19, 2012, 10:29:03 pm
She looks aside as she catches sight of Thundersplinter's corpse. She didn't want to think about that right now... how close to causing that she had been...
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 01:27:53 am
"It's not real, hun. None of it. Don't pay it any mind."
Starkey leans into his love, gently guiding her back to the others, shielding her eyes from the sight of his own maggot-ridden corpse.
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 01:36:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 01:38:10 am
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 01:41:18 am
"Could we... destroy the bodies maybe? Burn them? Like a funeral pyre? There's so many though... I don't know if that's a good idea..."
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 01:58:55 am
"Putting them to rest like that might work... but I'm no good with funeral rites. Starkey, think you could do that while Falcata and I try to burn them?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 02:02:14 am
Starkey moves off to a pile of corpses, gesturing for Hiero to follow.
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 02:11:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:13:16 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:16:40 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 02:18:39 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 02:21:12 am
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 02:22:30 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:22:53 am
On the other side of the room is a door.
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:26:05 am
My horn flashes and I try to levitate her and untie the noose, hoping she's still alive.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 02:26:57 am
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 02:29:25 am
But she was genuinely starting to worry over the cause of all of this...
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:30:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 02:33:54 am
"It... It's not her, lad. Not really."
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:34:09 am
I still shed tears as I carefully inter her in the grave, trying not to think of the headstone in my own mindscape.
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:35:14 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:40:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:41:28 am
"None shall pass," are her only words.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 02:42:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:44:00 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:46:25 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 02:46:50 am
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 02:48:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:50:17 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 02:51:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 02:53:44 am
Friesden charges forth.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 02:57:58 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 03:01:06 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 03:06:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 03:30:53 am
"You...my Kindness...betrayed me... Father, kill me cleanly."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 03:35:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 03:37:43 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 03:40:22 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 03:43:07 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 03:44:59 am
I hesitantly step forward to lay a hoof on Starkey's withers, my horn glowing with the fire spell.
"The..."
I swallow, trying to not break down.
"The Funeral rites?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 03:54:03 am
"Y-You're... right. W-We need to keep moving."
He turns to Khenal.
"...do you... think that's what we're supposed to do? We've already... buried her... once."
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 03:57:20 am
"It... just doesn't feel right to just leave h-the body lying around."
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 03:59:12 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 04:07:24 am
My horn glows softly as I solemnly pick up the fallen scalpel and walk towards the door.
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 04:09:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 04:14:37 am
"M-Mica... my..."
"Wait," she turns back to the others, confusion on her face, "Why is my son... in her head?"
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 04:41:58 am
My eyes widen in shock as the dots finally connect. 'Friesden's Mica and Otik's Mica! They're the same Mica!'
I try my best to avoid Otik's gaze and instead examine the room.
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 04:43:12 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 04:50:55 am
"Heiro? If you can hear me, would you please open the door?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 04:51:34 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 04:52:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 04:54:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 04:57:30 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 04:58:50 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 05:00:35 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 05:04:42 am
I try to free myself from the faceless ponies as they carry me to the throne, but to no avail. Even trying to levitate them away from me does nothing. After they place me there, I notice Friesden approaching.
"Friesden! Can you help me, please? They won't let me go."
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 05:07:33 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 05:10:40 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 05:14:17 am
I struggle against the faceless, but they prove immovable. Raw panic seeps into my voice as I try to convince Friesden to stop. Heiro seeming to want to help does nothing to help my mental state.
"Friesden! Please, you're better than to lick my hooves clean! I don't deserve for anypony to treat me like that! Please, stop! Help!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 05:17:27 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 05:18:32 am
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 05:20:39 am
"No... Why, why?! Please no... I don't deserve anything... No no no..."
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 09:22:47 am
She takes a cautious step toward the throne, chancing a curious glance to Heiro as she passes him. His reaction to the entire thing seemed peculiar to say the least. He didn't seem to find this particularly strange, but maybe he was just becoming inured to everything that was happening in Friesden's head. It was all fake after all. But... wanting to help her?
No time to worry with that right now. She steps up to the throne and looks Khenal in the eyes.
"Khenal? Khenal... relax... none of this is real... none of it..."
At least she really hoped so. After what Friesden had asked of her before... maybe not...
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 04:37:55 pm
"I-it's not real, b-but... she wants it to be. I can't... I don't..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 04:42:24 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 05:00:15 pm
As Heiro speaks up, she slowly nods.
"Yes... we... should move on." She considers trying to relate the symbolism to something else, but the only things she could think up just sounded worse. Something about how he was the most important pony to her in the world? No... that would probably just backfire. "Corporal Heiro is right. We have to help Friesden. It's going to be alright, but we need you for this..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 05:08:08 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 05:12:51 pm
"R-right. Gotta... Gotta get up for her, gotta help her."
I shakily try to get to my hooves, needing the support of my friends to do so. Once standing, I look around.
"Where... where's the door?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 05:13:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 05:29:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 05:36:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 07:13:58 pm
"Friesden..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 07:15:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 07:55:00 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 07:56:43 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 08:00:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 08:04:33 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 08:10:53 pm
"Fri? I-It's mum. What's wrong, Fri?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 08:16:21 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 08:23:34 pm
"Ooh, heeey... It's alright, hun. Yer gonna be alright. We're here t'fix everythin'."
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 08:29:19 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 09:13:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 09:18:58 pm
Falcata has to focus, but despite what she would think...the other pony is indeed her.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 09:21:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 09:25:45 pm
"Oh Friesden. You are the only mare for me, why can't I show you that?"
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 09:25:57 pm
"Surely she doesn't... I-I mean..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 09:29:02 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 09:37:08 pm
"Friesden, I love you. I love you so much."
I gently kiss Friesden's engraved name.
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 09:47:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 20, 2012, 09:57:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 09:58:42 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 20, 2012, 10:20:14 pm
She looks over to Khenal and watches as he kisses the engraving on the statue. What were they supposed to do here? If that didn't work, what would?
Post by: Impending Doom on January 20, 2012, 10:32:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 20, 2012, 10:48:02 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 20, 2012, 10:52:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 12:41:54 am
Khenal thinks for a moment, wondering why the name changed. 'Maybe Falcata needs to see something?' "Falcata, could you come here a minute?"
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 12:42:56 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 01:28:03 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 01:34:27 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 01:50:15 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 01:53:48 am
She leans over to the nameplate under his statue and gives it a quick kiss before backing away.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 01:56:38 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 02:07:05 am
She looks up, and sure enough, all of the Khenal statues transmute themselves into statues of Heiro, gingerly holding her hoof. Panic races through her mind for a moment. Oh, sisters above... what would the others think? What would he think?
Her cheeks turn cherry red, visible beneath her fur, as she backs away from the statue. She chances nervous glances at everypony else there, lastly to Heiro. Her eyes quickly dart away from his as the door appears.
"Um... m-m-maybe we should g-g-go on...?" She continues to avoid eye contact with anypony. She liked Heiro as a friend... but... she wasn't... Estoc... that was...
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 02:11:04 am
Otik grins sheepishly. "...She has a point, though. Th' two o' ye look awful cute t'gether."
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 02:11:22 am
'They really do make a cute pair.'
"Heh, I think continuing on would be a good idea."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 02:14:08 am
'well kid at least somepony other than you thinks you'd do well with her'
'not helping dad... I hope she doesn't dislike this though...'
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 02:36:58 am
She... wasn't sure if she was ready for that yet. It had been over three years since the murder of Estoc... but there wasn't a day that went by that she didn't think about him. Maybe... maybe it would do her some good? She mentally sighs and tries to focus on what they were doing. She'd have to have a long session of thinking about this... and Heiro might not be interested anyway.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 02:37:57 am
On closer inspection, there is something at the end - a large, wooden object in the shape of a lower-case t. On that object, a pony is attached. Her (for it is a her, the head giving it away) forelegs are stretched apart, on opposite sides of the vertical beam. They are held there by long, thing objects piercing through the ends.
Her hindlegs and together, and held to the bottom side of the vertical beam by another long thin object, making threee in total.
On a closer approach, the pony can be identified as Friesden. Her head is bowed, her eyes still open.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 02:41:25 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 02:41:55 am
I gallop across the bridge to try to get her down from her torture.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 02:43:34 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 02:44:54 am
"Oh Luna, are those... unicorn horns? Through her limbs? Khenal... t-this is just another fake Friesden, right?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 02:45:23 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 02:48:28 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 02:49:52 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 02:51:29 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 02:53:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 02:53:50 am
Starkey beckons Otik, and they both take to the air, hovering next to Friesden. Each of them pulls a horn out of one of Friesden's hooves, then moves in to support her.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 02:58:01 am
"Thank you," she says, and a feeling of peace washes across the group. Shimmering, the room fades away.
In its place, a new room appears. Lit by dark, barely glowing torches, she smiles once more, and they blaze into full light. The room is bare beside them.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:00:03 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 03:00:59 am
"F-Friesden? Are... are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:02:43 am
"Khenal, my love, I am better now. I'm not sure I'll be completely alright for a long time, but I'm better now than I was." She returns the embrace with a short kiss.
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 03:06:01 am
And... little sis? Big brother? That was interesting...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:06:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:07:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 03:09:33 am
"For you, I'd do it a thousand times, and a thousand times again, little one."
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 03:09:54 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:11:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:13:24 am
"Oh, no....oh no....oh no oh no oh no. You came in the other way.... You'll have to leave, now, before they come!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 03:16:14 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:17:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:17:56 am
Almost at once, the torches gutter, and despair is written large on Friesden's face.
"It's too late."
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 03:18:32 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 03:19:22 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:19:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:21:17 am
"We, the victims of Friesden, demand our sufferance," are their only words.
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 03:23:16 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:23:54 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 03:25:51 am
"The Friesden who took your lives is long gone. She is not the mare you seek. Begone from this place, spirits."
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:26:48 am
"You seek to enter Friesden's mind. All well and good. But has Friesden told you why you needed to?"
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 03:29:35 am
"The pony you seek is no more! Friesden would never do to you what has been done."
I turn and kneel before Friesden, offering her her Kindness.
"You are no murderer, Friesden. No murderer could have wielded this."
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 03:31:46 am
"I can take it she hasn't then. All to the better, she remembers it wrong. You ponies will know me, by reputation. My name is Efim, or Farquaad as my daughter knew me."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 03:35:15 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 03:35:35 am
I stand and turn to face Efim, cold rage building.
"You are the monster that tortured Friesden all her life! All she ever got from you was pain, and she still forgave you!"
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 03:35:47 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 03:37:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:02:20 am
Tears drop from the ghost's eyes. "Too weak to kill me like she should have, damn her! It was her right for all I had done to her. But she couldn't. Damn her. I lived that day. It was the day after, in exile, that my senses awoke. The horrors of what I had done were clear, in a way I hadn't known since the last day I served at the Princess' side. I fell to my knees and wept. What I had done...unforgivable, in the least. But. That was what gave me purpose. No matter how hard, I would find her, tell her my crimes, how evilly I had treated her, and beg her to kill me, for I could not live with myself. But it was impossible."
"For ten long years I searched. But you kept her from me, you wily bastard. I tracked her down first as I watched your hell hole burn. But I lost her. It was only when the murder spree continued past a week that I was interested. Especially once I learned the description matched her. Here, the noblest action I could do - die for my daughter, and maybe, just maybe, redeem her to happiness. But then the murders ended, and I lost her. In despair, I decided to move to one of the newly founded forts, hoping for a quick death. Imagine my surprise when I found my daughter. But she was broken by me. By you. By us. I tried to speak to her, but...it was a trap. I died quite painfully, the least restitution I could have made."
"I stayed around. I was still searching for an answer. Soon, I found it. You will remember the massacre of Perapolis. That...that was only my second worst sin. What I did to my daughter was far worse. But...I found out. The...the princess...she had used me. You know the spell, Khenal. It was developed as a group spell by the princess' court mages. The test was Perapolis."
"30 000 ponies dead. Not merely soldiers. Civilians. Mares, stallions, foals. I killed them all with the army of 'liberation'. I returned to Tailentranced in a stupor, not noticing what I had done. When I returned...My wife was about to give birth...to Friesden. I was not the cause, but I am most responsible. I did not have the strength to resist her. And I failed my daughter."
He bows down.
"Make it clean."
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 04:05:42 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 04:07:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:07:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:08:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:12:31 am
"...You... you're telling the truth. Every word. You truly feel remorse, don't you?"
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 04:12:58 am
"You need to decide, Friesden. You... forgave him before. What do you do with him now?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:15:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:20:08 am
"Wot? Stars, he did such... monstrous things t'her! Dunnae tell me ye just forgive this bastard?"
"Nopony is beyond redemption, Otik. Farquaad has seen his error."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 04:22:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:23:26 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 04:25:16 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 04:27:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:29:24 am
"But...but...."
"My death is essential for your life. It is all I can do for you now."
"But...father...there's one thing..."
"I told you. It's something for you only to know. Just accept my death."
"But..." She hangs her head. "I don't want anypony to die for me."
"It is my choice to offer my death for you."
"...okay...OKAY! Okay!" she says, before turning away and sobbing.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:36:09 am
Starkey reaches into a pouch on his belt, withdrawing a scrap of parchment.
"in the second room, after I finished with the bodies, I had one more of these left. I think I know why now."
He holds it out to Farquaad. An image of a key is drawn on the parchment in ink.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:38:21 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:38:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:40:53 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 04:42:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:45:01 am
Friesden shrieks and runs to the head.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 04:54:25 am
'Let him pass. To see such horrors inflicted on one I love so dearly, and to know that every last one was wrought by my own hooves... If you truly be merciful, let him pass. He has done his time in Hell.'
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 04:54:47 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 04:57:15 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 05:00:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:00:45 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 05:03:24 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 05:05:54 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 05:07:01 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 05:11:37 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 05:17:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:23:19 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 05:27:10 am
"Sis..." He tries to find some words... but none will come, he finally decides to just sit next to her, placing a hoof on her shoulder.
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 05:28:07 am
She lowers her head as Friesden continues to weep.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:28:35 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 05:31:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 05:44:59 am
"Sometimes the good must die so that the rest survive. The lot of courage is to be sacrificed on the altar of battle. But those who die for another, their spirits shall be seated at the Sisters' table."
"Your... your father sacrificed himself to save you. He did it because he loves you, Friesden. Even now."
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:51:15 am
One of the torches goes out.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 05:53:55 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:57:08 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 06:00:49 am
I gesture at Starkey, Otik and Heiro.
"Friends."
I nod towards Falcata.
"...Love."
I lean in to gently kiss Friesden.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 06:02:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 06:03:09 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 06:05:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 21, 2012, 06:11:11 am
"Ye know ye'll always be our lit'l pony, Fri. I'll always be there for ye..."
"...Both of us will."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 06:15:18 am
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 06:17:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 06:20:11 am
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 04:18:17 pm
"I'm glad you're alright, Friesden. We all are."
I sever the linking spell, letting everypony fade back to the reality of the hospital room.
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:21:49 pm
"Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!"
Post by: Khenal on January 21, 2012, 04:42:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:44:51 pm
"I'm happy again! Thank you so much!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 04:48:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 04:51:29 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 05:00:49 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 05:15:51 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 09:29:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 09:30:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 09:35:02 pm
Kris sits up from her previous position of laying next Heiro's bed. "Oh, you're all awake?"
((Be back in 30-45 mins))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 10:31:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 10:35:05 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 10:37:14 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 10:41:31 pm
Falcata finally forces herself completely lucid and looks over to see the whack her daughter had taken. She steps over, examines it and nods in agreement. "Doesn't look too bad..." She gives Kris a small hug. "Just be a little more careful."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 21, 2012, 11:20:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 11:45:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 11:53:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 11:55:06 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 21, 2012, 11:58:03 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 21, 2012, 11:59:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 12:05:34 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 12:11:42 am
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 12:29:28 am
Falcata stands and picks at the bandages on her side. "Almost forgot about these..." She steps off toward the medical supplies.
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 12:30:12 am
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 12:32:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 12:34:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 12:44:08 am
"Soo... if yer Friesden's brother... I guess that makes-"
"Ooh no, stop right there Otik."
"Aww, but Sta-ars..."
"We talked about this, remember? no more foster children! We're going to get married, and have foals of our own."
Otik pouts hard, showing him the saddest, most watery eyes she can muster.
"No... that's not going to work this time..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 12:46:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 12:57:11 am
He tries his best to resist...
And fails. the D'aww is strong in this one.
"Oh... oh, alright, I give up."
He clears his throat. "Heiro... if it's alright with you - because these two have already made their minds up, which means I-"
Otik jabs him in the ribs.
"Oww! Okay, okay! As I was saying: would you like to give us the honor of being... your mother and father?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 01:00:08 am
'D-dad... y-you wouldn't'
'Don't make me smack you kid, you know what you want, we'll still be here.'
"Y-you'd really let me be... be your son... e-even though I'm a keshi?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 01:03:37 am
"Please, dad?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 01:14:30 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 01:15:32 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 01:31:44 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 01:34:25 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 01:37:36 am
"I think you already are... son."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 01:43:23 am
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 01:53:31 am
She winces as she peels the bandages away, finding that the cuts from the scourge's teeth had scabbed over, and looked reasonably good all things considered.
Kris watches as everypony next to her gives Heiro a hug, and she joins in. "I hope you feel better soon," she says.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 01:56:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 02:04:25 am
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 03:26:21 am
((Scene done. Dang, how long did it take us to do this part? Next scene incoming soon!))
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 04:18:08 am
I'll be starting with Falcata's magical training today, though there won't be any actual magic before I'm satisfied with her mental control. She's good most of the time, but she seems to crack under pressure. I'll be showing her a few meditation techniques to help focus under pressure. It'll also give me a chance to wheedle out her strengths and weaknesses when it comes to magic. Enhancing her strengths and shoring up her weaknesses is one (or two, I guess) of my goals for this training.
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 03:18:54 pm
I don't know how to put it into words, but the world has lightened. I'm happy again! The darkness has gone away!
I just can't put into words how blessed I've been. Ever since I've met Khenal, my life has turned to good.
Maybe there is something in them calling him godkin...
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 03:35:20 pm
Falcata's Diary - 12th Galena, 100
Today was mentally, physically and emotionally exhausting. It started with Khenal confronting me about the things he saw in my head. I was terrified that he'd never want to speak to me again after that, but much to my surprise he just apologized for losing his composure and asked that we remain friends. I have to admit that up until now I'd only hoped that he thought of me as a friend, but didn't really expect it. I thought it was just a professional relationship, but I'm eager to have him as a friend.
That lead to Lady Charity arriving with a gift for Khenal: the most beautiful spear I've ever seen in my life. Khenal was overtaken by the gesture, which I suppose I would have been too. I ended up in an unexpected group hug from that, which felt nice aside from the fact that it probably wasn't strictly appropriate, especially with Lady Charity being involved. Speaking of her, she seemed to be a bit put off by us showing respect to her by bowing. I suppose I can understand Khenal, since from what I gather they've known each other for years longer than I've even been here, but I was pretty shocked to find that she thinks of me as a friend too. I feel pretty guilty for being nervous around her now. I thought I was being too harsh and misjudging her before, but now I am convinced. I only hope I haven't offended her in any way. I only meant to show my respect to her, I really do think of her as deserving of her position. And a good friend to have.
She then brought the issue of what to do with the adamantine crossbow that was produced recently. I immediately thought of giving it to Lieutenant Otik, instead of selfishly taking the weapon for Madush. We could put it to use, certainly, but it would do far more good in the hooves of the militia. If an enemy makes it to us, then it's already gone through the militia, and I dare not dwell on what that would mean. I would much prefer that Madush keep using her current weapon than see any of the militia be wounded or killed.
Lady Charity was concerned that Otik would use the weapon against her. After some thought I suppose I can see her point, I've hardly forgotten the day that Captain Starkey and Lieutenant Otik rounded us up and subdued Charity. I honestly wasn't convinced I'd live to see the next day. But in the years that have come and gone, I've come to understand the passion of what they did and have seen a side of both of them that I think Lady Charity hasn't. I trust them both now. I admit that I still feel the slightest hint of nerves whenever I see Lieutenant Otik get angry or emotional about anything, but I would trust her to back me up if I needed it. And it's my job to protect the duchess, and I'm willing to bet my life on the fact that Otik wouldn't turn the weapon on her or us.
But, before I could say any of that, Friesden and Corporal Heiro arrived to reveal that today is Khenal's birthday! Friesden had prepared a party for him, and we all attended the celebration. I don't think I've ever seen that many ponies that happy in Glitterglen, especially Friesden. I only wish it could have lasted. Some time after the party began, Kris came galloping into the dining hall to reveal that Lilac had run off into the jungle, and was apparently set on becoming a diomedian. Everypony immediately hurried off to look for her, but the search could hardly have gone worse.
We were ambushed, as I feared we would be. Khenal and I were wounded, but Lady Charity was nearly killed by a diomedian assassin. It's only by great fortune that Corporal Heiro overheard what happened and came to her rescue. He was badly wounded in the ensuing fight, but she was completely unharmed. I know she must be grateful, and I expect she will want to reward him somehow. After he asked me to look into getting him into the royal guard, I'm tempted to bring it up to her. After his refusal to follow her orders earlier, I'm a bit reluctant though. I don't know what her opinion of him really is, and I wouldn't want to stir up trouble unknowingly.
Speaking of Corporal Heiro, when we tried to treat him with a blood transfusion, his body rejected it and he acquired a serious fever. Dr. Venture was worried that the fever could have hurt his brain, so Friesden and I entered his mind to try and check up on him. Fortunately he was fine, but we found out that he is really a diomedian. A keshi. I never expected that, but it explains the problem with the transfusion. He is worried that everypony will hate him for being a diomedian. I fear he might be right with the populace as a whole. The other diomedians we've encountered out here have only wanted to kill us or worse, but it doesn't change how I feel about Corporal Heiro. He is a good pony, and doesn't deserve to be treated badly because he was born to a diomedian family.
The worst part of all of this though, is that we didn't find Lilac. I knew we wouldn't. I know we won't. I can only imagine the horrors she is facing, and all for naught. I don't understand why she would do something like that. Captain Starkey and Lieutenant Otik loved her. Kris was her friend. I did everything I could for her. The poor thing, after what happened to her parents I fear nothing could have helped her.
At least Khenal and Corporal Heiro will recover. So much has happened that it's going to take time for me to digest all of this. I think writing it out has helped some, but I'll probably have trouble sleeping tonight. I'll go check up on the wounded in the morning. My own wounds are quite minor in comparison, so I just went home with Kris. She is extremely upset about it all. I think she knows Lilac wont be coming back, but she's handling it about as well as I could expect. I don't think it's really set in for any of us yet.
13th Galena, 100
Yesterday was extremely draining, but today was hardly easy on my mind. When we went to check up on Corporal Heiro this morning, we found that he had recovered considerably. Friesden however, seems to have been quite upset about finding out that he was a keshi, and she went into convulsions as soon as she got close to him. Khenal ended up drawing us into her mind to try and help her, and I'm not going to record here everything that I saw there. Friesden is a tormented pony on the inside, and after some of the things I saw I don't blame her. I really must do everything I can to support her now, she has been through so much more than I will ever know.
Something extremely unexpected happened while we were there though. Friesden clearly thinks that Corporal Heiro and I would make a good cople. Further, it seems that everypony else agrees with her. I wouldn't have even suspected something like that. Well, she did sort of hint at it at the party, but I thought she was joking. I don't know what Corporal Heiro thinks about it, but I'm not so sure.
He's a nice pony, and has been nothing but supportive of me. And he gets along with Kris very well. But, I just don't know. I was happily married to Estoc for four years before he was taken from me. That was over three years ago, but I haven't forgotten him, and I never will. I don't want to forget about him. Being in a relationship just feels like I'm betraying his memory. I really don't want to upset Corporal Heiro though, he's a good friend. I don't know, maybe I should give it a try. I won't push it, but maybe if he does, I could at least give it a try.
I'm going to need some time to think about this. I just don't know what to think. At all. It's been three years, but in so many ways it still feels too soon. I'm not sure I could ever love again. Not like I loved Estoc.
15th Galena, 100
At least I have some good news to report today. I'm ecstatic that the zebras have seen reason and are requesting peace with us. The war was completely senseless, and I hated every zebra and pony that lost their lives needlessly. There's enough danger out here without us tearing each other apart.
Otherwise, I was pretty shocked when Khenal came to me yesterday and offered to help me hone my magical skills. I suppose I am a bit of a joke of a unicorn. I think I know maybe three or four spells, and using them tires me immensely. I wasn't really sure what to say to him, but I accepted the offer. He is probably the most skilled mage I've met in person, so there is nopony else I'd rather have as a teacher. I just hope I don't let him down, and I must find some way to repay him for what he is doing for me. I don't think he would accept money as payment. Something more personal is in order, but I don't know what. I'll have to think about it. Maybe Friesden would know something?
Today we actually began some of the exercises. Khenal told me that he didn't want to actually try teaching me anything about magic until we've gone through some mental exercises. I've never had formal training in magic, so that sounds reasonable to me. We just went through some meditation techniques today. I think I managed to follow him reasonably well enough. I felt so peaceful during the meditation. I've been wound up tighter than a rope for as long as I can remember, and the chance to unwind was very welcome. I'm not sure what Khenal was expecting from today, but I hope I gave it to him. I'm looking forward to the next session. I'll never have the strength or skill he has, but any improvement is welcome.
((That took close to an hour to type. No joke. And don't fret Khenal, I won't be typing up a chapter from a novel for every session. :) ))
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 05:37:13 pm
Khenal is
No. I can't write any words to describe just how great, how good, how nice he is. Falcata, another guard, and my friend, has been needing a bit of help with her magic, and Khenal, the bestest, wisest, kindest, greatest, and most powerful pony ever, is helping her!
The last party I threw ended unhappily when my poor beloved sister ran off. But maybe I can throw another one! One to celebrate how good he is!
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 07:56:52 pm
I love Friesden so much, my Sequel. I told you about the journey into her mind, and how concerning some of the imagery was, but she really seems to have gotten closure on her past. She's been so happy, and I've been so happy because of it.
Chapter 56
Falcata is doing well in the meditations, so I think she's ready for me to try to disrupt her focus. In the session today, I'll try bringing up a few things that might disturb her. I'll give her some warning before we start, to make sure she feels she's ready. I'll try a few sudden noises and flashes of light at first. If she keeps her focus through that, I'll... have to start pushing her buttons. Estoc. Kris. This is why I need to ask her if she's ready before starting. Focusing through and channeling the anger into something constructive is always a hard thing to learn, especially for somepony who care about others so much.
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 08:16:29 pm
I hate me. I should have apologised to Him more before now. And now she's dead. I'm that stupid idiot bitch of a mare. Trying to throw a party when I should have been apologising to Him.
I wish I could take my life back.
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 08:30:18 pm
I... I can't believe Thunder Splinters is gone. I don't think Glitterglen would have even been possible without her. Almost everything wooden was made by her, even the tower was her brainchild. Charity is not taking it well. In fact, I don't think anypony is. I'm not going to write much more, Sequel. I... I need Friesden before I break down.
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 08:37:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 08:45:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 08:47:38 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 08:52:35 pm
I tighten the embrace, desperately trying to not break into wracking sobs.
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 08:56:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 09:00:23 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 09:02:46 pm
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Why couldn't You have taken me instead of her? It was my fault, not hers!"
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 09:08:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 09:13:02 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 09:13:28 pm
I had my third training session with Khenal today. He said I was ready to move on past the meditations, and I think he's right. It came a little easier than I thought. Today was a lot trickier though. I should have been a bit concerned when he asked if I was sure I was ready to continue, and that he would be testing my focus. Of course, I didn't back down.
He had me try to maintain meditation and concentrating on some very simple spells while he attempted to distract me. Easy stuff at first, like making sudden noises or flashing lights at me. Then he got me. Out of nowhere he said the name Estoc. Even the mention of his name was enough to disrupt the spell I was channeling. I didn't lose the spell completely, but it shook me enough.
I tried again, and since I was expecting it this time I didn't falter when asked some things about Kukri and Dirk. Then he got me again by asking how Kris was doing after the kick. I did lose the spell that time. He knows they're my weakest points, I suppose. If I can learn to focus through thinking about them, I can focus through anything.
Khenal is a smart pony though, I'm sure he'll have something even trickier for me next time. He said we'd continue working on my focus some, and I can't disagree with him. If Estoc's name is enough to throw off my concentration that much, then I definitely have some work to do.
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 09:23:19 pm
'She... thinks I don't forgive her for her past? Have I really never said otherwise?'
I bury my face in her mane, ashamed with myself.
"Oh, Friesden, of course I forgive you for your past. I can't believe I never said so sooner, I'm so sorry!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 09:28:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 09:33:54 pm
Friesden and Khenal were both friends with her, if she recalled properly. She... didn't know what she was going to say. Or even why she was looking for them. She just wanted to head home and curl up in her bed and sulk alone. But she thought maybe they could use some support too. She knew she could. Even if she didn't want to ask for it, she could pass it off as looking to help them. Did they even know what she had done to Thundersplinters? Khenal probably did. Friesden? She didn't know.
Neither had been in the hospital, this seemed like the next best place to look. She steps into the dining hall and gives it a quick survey to see Khenal and Friesden embracing each other. She thought she could see tears in Khenal's eyes, but Friesden had clearly been sobbing bitterly at some point. Maybe this wasn't the best time after all...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 09:39:35 pm
'That's little sis' voice... she sounds sad...' Heiro walks into the dining hall, noticing Falcata first, then the other two.
He walks over to the crying ponies, placing a hoof on Friesden's withers "Hey now little sis... what's wrong?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 09:50:38 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 09:54:14 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 09:58:15 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 10:00:08 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 10:01:36 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 10:09:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 10:13:02 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 10:15:02 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 10:18:04 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 10:44:06 pm
"Fri? Friesden? I... we heard wot happened. Are ye doin' okay, hun?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 10:53:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 10:57:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 11:02:58 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 11:16:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 11:24:16 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 11:26:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 11:31:15 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 11:32:25 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 11:33:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 22, 2012, 11:35:16 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 11:37:07 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 11:39:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 22, 2012, 11:41:25 pm
An idea came into her head. She and Heiro were so cute...and he seemed to be making her happy. Maybe...
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 11:46:30 pm
"Thank you, corporal. Y-you're right."
She looks at the other ponies. "H-how is everypony else doing?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 22, 2012, 11:50:49 pm
Otik notices an odd... glint in Friesden's eyes.
'Is that...' She studies her face a little more closely.
'No...' That gleam in her eyes, that little satisfied smirk. The way her gaze shifted from Falcata, to Heiro, then back to Falcata.
'It can't be...'
It can.
Friesden, her daughter, is plotting something. Otik couldn't be more proud.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 11:54:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 22, 2012, 11:57:06 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 22, 2012, 11:59:49 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 12:11:44 am
"There weren't enough cells available to lock everypony up for a few days... so Lady Charity randomly picked some ponies to receive... corporal punishment... instead. Thundersplinters was one of the four chosen randomly. No special treatment for anypony." Her voice begins to crack slightly. "I-I was still in the fortress guard at the time. The orders came down... and... and..." She shuts her eyes, and clenches her teeth, biting back tears. "...and... I volunteered for the job."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 12:14:49 am
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 12:29:36 am
She places her face in one hoof and chokes again. "I confronted her... and... she... and everypony else there... they... a brawl broke out. I was just trying to defend myself... but..." More choking and sniffling. "When it was over, she was almost dead. If it was somepony else... maybe it wouldn't have happened that way..."
"Oh, sisters... I-I'll never forget that day as long as I live..." Tears begin to flow from her eyes and she places her face in both hooves. "I... I never apologized to her... I never had the nerve to face her after what happened... and now... now... she's..." Falcata begins to sob, her words lost completely.
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 12:35:02 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 12:38:10 am
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 12:40:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 12:47:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 12:50:48 am
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 12:51:44 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 01:04:47 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 01:06:29 am
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 01:13:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 01:19:38 am
"I'm... sorry. Bokbon wos.. my friend. At th' time, I didnae know who wos responsible, so... I jus' took it out on anypony who coulda done it. I thought that only a band o' cold, heartless monsters could do somethin' like that... I had no idea it ate at ye so. I'm sorry for what I did."
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 01:26:02 am
((Scene concluded.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 03:09:42 am
More ponies began to come in. Thundersplinter's other friends were there. But the other five members of the starting seven were not present. Dozens of ponies stood in the room. Charity looked around, hardly a dry eye in the building.
Charity's daughter Belle, having just turned 3 years old had been quite inconsolable when she heard what happened to her, "Auntie Thunder." But the look on her face now, was of determination. As the ponies stood in the room preparing, Belle's horn began to glow, softly at first, and from her came a sad sound. A dirge began to play. As she manipulated the magic in the air with her horn she created the most sorrowful song any pony present had ever heard. And then she began to sing. As the words came forth Thundersplinter's body was brought up the stairs.
Thundersplinter was carried in a wooden casket, (Her once beautiful face had been ravaged by the evil Diomedians, which forced them to hide it behind the wooden walls of her box.) The casket was carried by Starkey, Cryptson, Cindersparks, Pillomino, and Friesden with two on each side, and Friesden bringing up the rear.
They brought the casket up to the front of the room, by the tomb. The music continued on for time and then faded. A mark had appeared on Belle's flank as the song ended, but nopony had noticed, least of all the foal who's face had cracked and was choking back tears.
Spoiler: Belle's Cutie Mark (click to show/hide)
Charity walk out in front of the crowd, and then she spoke.
"Thundersplinter, was a dear friend to many of us, and without her hard work, Glitterglen might not be what it is today. Most of the things we take for granted everyday here where made by her. Every last bed, and most of the bins and barrels we store everything in, along with countless tables and chairs, all bear the mark of her hoofywork. She will be sorely missed. Her death was pointless, the act of horrible soulless monsters, who threaten our very way of life. But I won't let it have been in vain. I swear to all of you. We will improve the defenses. We will build new walls and fortifications. Nopony will ever die needlessly again, if I can help it. You have my word."
As she spoke she occasionally rubbed her silver amulet with her right hoof. A nervous tic someponies watching might have thought.
Belle sees her her cue and begins to play another equally sorrowful song as the 6 ponies from the 7 founders, all together this time, begin to move the wooden casket into the larger sarcophagi. After the deed is done Charity leads the gathered ponies in a short prayer.
"Sisters of Sun and Moon, our Mothers,
Your power brings us to birth,
Your providence guides our lives,
and by Your command we return to dust.
Sister of the Night, those who die still live in Your presence,
their lives change but do not end.
I pray in hope for my family,
relatives and friends,
and for all the dead known to You alone.
In company with Luna,
Who ends the hard day and brings our restful dreams,
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,
where all our tears are wiped away.
Unite us together again in one family,
to sing Your praise forever and ever.
Amen. "
After the prayer, Charity bends down by the wooden casket, and places a drawing of a key on cloth on it, she also takes off her own silver amulet and places it in the sarcophagi, she whispers "I'm sorry my friend. I don't know what else I can do for you now. But please take this. It belonged to my mother, but I want you to have it now."
The heavy nickle lid is closed as Belle offers up one last dirge, as she fights off tears.
Ponies begin to leave. Some stay longer than others, but soon enough the tomb is closed, and the ponies return to their work. Thundersplinter is gone from their lives, but she'll never be forgotten.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
After the funeral Charity and her family return home. Charity takes off her robe and goes to hang it on the wall, when she notices something strange about it. She examines it more closely and sees embroidered on the robe along the inside of the collar, in gold colored thread the word "Generosity."
'That's never been there before?'
Post by: Darkening Kaos on January 23, 2012, 03:24:59 am
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 03:43:27 am
It feels a bit odd to have a secret book. I mean, why write something down that you don't want to be known? Well, my Secret, I do want you to be known, but not yet. There are things in Glitterglen that I do not trust, and so I have taken great pains to keep you hidden. And to keep my Study hidden as well. It has taken me literally years to finish my hidden Study. I found it when I noticed something seemed off about the shower in the chambers Friesden and I share. Up the sluice, I found a small depression that might have made a decent room. You know, except for the water and the flight up the shaft. Eventually, I decided to expand it slightly and make it a secret Study, to examine some of the odd things here in Glitterglen. I set many gems around the room to deflect any attempts at magical observation. They aren't perfect, but they will certainly keep anyone form looking without my notice.
There are several things I need to study, my Secret. Like the
I look up form my writing as one of the gems emits a small chime, alerting me to somepony knocking at my chamber doors. I hastily close my Secret Book and exit my Study, diving into the rushing column of water back to my shower. My horn glows as I quickly repel the water and rush to the door, hoping I didn't leave whoever it was waiting long enough for them to be suspicious of anything.
"Hello?" I ask as I open the door.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 03:52:01 am
"Khenal. I need to ask you about something. May I come inside?"
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 03:53:35 am
"Uh, sure, Charity. What did you need to ask me?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 03:56:06 am
She places her robe on the table and takes a seat.
"What do you make of this?" She points at the new gold lettering on the inside of her midnight blue robes.
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 03:57:20 am
"Oh, hello Duchess. Visiting Khenal again?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:02:05 am
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 04:03:04 am
'I knew this was a nice robe, but I didn't know we had anypony this skilled in transmutation spells here. Wait, Generosity? Didn't Starkey mention...'
"Hey Friesden! Charity wanted me to look at something on her robe real quick."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 04:03:35 am
She turns to Khenal, with a hint of forced humour on her face. "Oh, is that your excuse? Hehehe."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:11:14 am
She turns to Khenal.
"Anyway I came to you Khenal because you know more about magic than anypony in Glitterglen, and well, these letters, if you can believe me, weren't here when I put on the robe before the funeral. I KNOW that they weren't. But afterwords when I went to hang it on the wall. There they were plain as day. I swear to you I'm not crazy, but I don't know how they could have gotten there if not by magic. And if magic who and why?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 04:14:19 am
"Heiro's not a foalish oaf. Have fun together."
She heads out of the room and slams the door behind her.
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 04:18:52 am
"I love you."
Standing next to Friesden, I try to answer Charity's question.
"I believe you, Charity. You aren't the only pony who's had unique lettering appear on something important. Falcata's hammer has an inscription you didn't commission, as well as Starkey's axe."
I gently nuzzle Friesden.
"Friesden, too, had an inscription appear on one of her items: a scalpel. As far as who and why, though? I'm stumped. Starkey has a theory, though..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:21:02 am
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 04:29:58 am
"He thinks it could be something very major. I forget his exact wordings, but there are a few pieces of Scripture that make me wonder. Basically, there are 6 ideals for ponies to strive for: Honesty, Loyalty, Laughter, Kindness, Generosity and Magic. With your robe, the only ones that haven't yet been inscribed on something are Laughter and Magic."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:34:52 am
Charity thinks for a moment. "You said it was Falcata, Starkey, Friesden and myself that had something like this, and I have Generosity. What did each of the others get?"
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 04:36:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:43:57 am
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 04:47:46 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 04:53:10 am
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 05:01:39 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 05:09:22 am
"So, if the words are more than just simple inscriptions, then they aren't being placed by anypony here. Khenal if you do learn anything more about these than I would like to be informed, as soon as possible. But thank you for looking at my robe, you have put my mind at ease at the very least."
Charity levitates her robe back over to her.
Post by: Khenal on January 23, 2012, 05:16:59 am
I walk over to one of my book cases, looking for the Book of the Sisters. It'd give me something to read while waiting for Friesden so I could apologize to her.
((And scene! Unless KSB wants to post Charity leaving?))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 23, 2012, 05:24:52 am
'I wonder if it is true. Those words are all listed as virtues for ponies in the Book of the Sisters, but could that really be it? Could we really be something special. It couldn't be, there are other ponies who would better represent generosity, the others maybe but not me, but what else makes sense? How else could it have gotten there except by some miracle.'
She pushes the thought from her mind and tries to get on with running her city.
((End of Scene.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 04:09:23 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 06:00:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 06:17:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 06:18:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 06:22:42 pm
Grabbing hold of Heiro, Friesden leads him, by a roundabout route, to Falcata's quarters, and knocks on the door.
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 07:02:54 pm
She stands, walks over to the door and opens it.
"Oh, hello Friesden. Would you like to come in?"
((I can't get on the IRC until the regular time, but I should be able to respond to posts for a little while))
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 07:10:04 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 07:12:29 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 07:16:38 pm
"Where are we headed?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 07:23:30 pm
Friesden leads the two to the dining hall. In the middle is a cake, with icing on it saying "Happy First Date!". Friesden seems to disappear before the two can ask any questions.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 07:28:09 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 07:43:17 pm
Realizing that the mare was gone, she looks back to her remaining company with a confused expression. "Um... did-did you...?
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 07:55:55 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 08:11:21 pm
Falcata surveys the dining hall. Friesden certainly had gone through a lot of trouble for the two of them. It was a sweet gesture... if a bit... sudden. Corporal Heiro seemed to be pretty nervous, but that could be for a lot of reasons. How was he taking this? She clears her throat. "Well! This was quite unexpected," she says, keeping her voice level with some difficulty and trying to read Heiro's body language and response.
((Remember, she's going to need a bit of encouragement, perhaps the gentlecolt should lead a bit?))
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 08:12:58 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 08:16:15 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 08:27:31 pm
She gives him a smile, trying to mask her nervousness. He clearly wasn't averse to the idea. This was all very sudden for her, though. Honestly, she was surprised he was even interested... she was a decade older than him among other things. He was a nice pony though, and she wouldn't want to upset him by brushing him off. Or Friesden for that matter.
And who knew? Maybe she would have a nice night after all. Already she was thinking about her first date with Estoc though... sisters help her, she didn't want to break down about that in front of him. Or let it spoil everything.
((Probably my last post for a little while, be on the IRC in an hour and a half to two hours from now))
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 08:32:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:01:22 pm
They were so cute together! All this effort was worthwhile if only for that. And then they'd be happy, and that would be the best!
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 09:03:36 pm
"Soo... Th' culprit returns t' th' scene o' th' crime, t'admire her handiwork..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:06:27 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 09:09:31 pm
"So how are they doin'? They hit it off nice?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:12:05 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 09:15:23 pm
"Falcata's takin' it like a right trooper... but poor Heiro's tremblin' like a leaf."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:17:51 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 09:19:20 pm
"Hmm... let 'em be, for now. Once they get t'talkin', he'll loosen up."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:21:06 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 09:47:00 pm
"Now Heiro, it's his first date, an' it shows. Beyond that, I''ve got lit'l experience readin' stallions."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 09:49:21 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 10:37:26 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 10:49:53 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 10:53:19 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 11:00:27 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 23, 2012, 11:08:25 pm
She keeps watching.
"But she dunnae seem t'mind? Mebbe she really does want it t'work."
Post by: Dsarker on January 23, 2012, 11:09:29 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 11:17:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 11:24:49 pm
"I've been doing well lately. Mostly business as usual, except that Lord Cryptson and Lady Charity have actually taken active roles in training with us. I'm a bit nervous about that, but it's working out fine so far." She takes another bite of food, making a conscious effort to swallow it all before speaking. "Kris has been doing well too. She's been spending some time with Dr. Bubbles learning a bit more about medicine. We have plenty of doctors already, but he insists that she not waste her talent. I suppose he's got a point."
She looks over to him. "How about you? Everything going well in the guard?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 11:31:07 pm
'I have to impress her with something but..."
'nothing you can do little bro, don't brag or boast, just calm down and be yourself. I'm sure she'll like that.'
Heiro swallows a bit more food. "I've been trying to train when I can, but ever since the indecent with the prisoners..."
Post by: Telgin on January 23, 2012, 11:39:39 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 23, 2012, 11:50:28 pm
"I offered them extra rations for a week to spar with me, wooden weapons only, all good and clean. Apparently Madush and Osal passed by at the wrong time and assumed an escape... they died... and it was my fault. I-I was just trying to make them more comfortable."
Heiro shakes his head... "B-but that's depressing... t-this is a date, things are supposed to be happy right? Umm... Friesden seems to be doing well... I'm happy to see her smile... heh, apparently she wanted to see me smile a bit too."
'hey I've stopped stuttering as much... I-I hope she's enjoying herself...'
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 12:00:35 am
"And I'm glad to see Friesden happy too. She's a good friend, but I suppose you see her more often than I do. Right?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 12:06:37 am
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 12:24:29 am
Well, that might be a bit awkward, but she couldn't take it back now. As she sips at her wine again, she starts to think about the fact that they were on a date again. She hadn't been on that many dates in her life, and most had been over a decade ago. She looks at Heiro and thinks back to her first date with Estoc. The roles had been pretty much reversed then. She'd never been a particularly social pony, and she'd stumbled through their date pretty badly.
It was a bit cute. She had been a bit intimidated by Estoc, and she could only imagine he felt like she did back then. Maybe that's what Estoc saw in her?
Post by: Dsarker on January 24, 2012, 12:26:57 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 12:36:14 am
Heiro shakes his head again "I-I'm sorry, that sounds strange doesn't it... I-I just have a tendency to ramble when..." He takes a drink, trying to hide his blush, hoping that she understood.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 24, 2012, 12:40:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 24, 2012, 12:44:56 am
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 12:54:40 am
"No, no, I think I understand." He'd been through a lot, and how that could shape somepony's perceptions of things she could only imagine. Friesden had a pretty interesting outlook on family, at least, and his wasn't any more strange than that. "Thank you again for looking after her. She's a good filly and stays out of trouble most of the time, but I like to know she's safe. She means the world to me."
She takes another bite of food and notices a hint of redness on Heiro's cheeks. She'd have never believed that she would make somepony this nervous. Words leave her, but she gives him a small smile to punctuate her last statement on a high note instead of the more morbid tone of possibly losing Kris.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 24, 2012, 12:55:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 12:58:38 am
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 01:07:28 am
She smiles and swallows another bite of food. "You seem to have adjusted well to being here though."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 01:13:32 am
Heiro smiles "I can't believe how much I had forgotten, and you helped me get it back. And for the record, I don't think you're a killjoy, I just think you're like big sis, you've seen to much to have an easy time letting your guard down. But like they say, life's far too serious to take seriously, gotta laugh, and play... otherwise things can get far too dark..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 24, 2012, 01:14:15 am
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 01:42:56 am
She chuckles softly and tries to change the subject. She didn't want to get bogged down thinking about what happened in Coupledye. "She's not far from a mare herself now though. Sometimes I still treat her like the filly she was when we arrived here, but she's grown a lot since then." She pauses to think about the stomach that was allowing her to eat and drink right now. "I'm really proud of her, she's done a lot for me if nopony else."
A thought strikes her. "Oh, but I don't mean to sound boastful." She suddenly finds the wine glass leaving her lips. Clop. No more, or she'd regret it!
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 01:48:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 24, 2012, 01:51:17 am
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 01:59:59 am
Wait... had he said she deserved praise too? No... that was probably just the wine talking. She feels a belch coming and chokes it back down, making it just audible as a hiccup as she covers her mouth with a hoof.
"Oh, um... excuse me," she says with a smile, feeling her cheeks turn slightly red. The wine wasn't helping there. "Yes, some cake sounds wonderful right now."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 02:07:04 am
"S-so Falcata... u-umm, are...are you enjoying out date? I-I want it to go well s-so..." he stops talking and blushes again, looking at the ground. He peeks at her out of the corner of his eye... hoping for a positive reaction.
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 02:31:40 am
"Don't worry, I'm having a nice time. I don't get many chances to just sit down and talk with somepony."
She did wonder where this would lead though. She really wasn't sure she was ready to move on from Estoc... but... this had been a very relaxing afternoon so far. And Heiro was trying so hard... for a moment she almost pictured him like a son that needed encouragement more than a stallion courting her. Probably just because of the things she'd seen in his head. She was almost old enough to be his mother though. Come to think of it, she was surprised that didn't bother him.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 02:43:16 am
He takes a bite of cake, thinking about his next words. "I've really enjoyed being able to spend time with you. I think..." He stops again, trying to hide a blush by eating some more cake.
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 03:01:58 am
She tenses mentally as he sits again, a bit closer this time. He was coming on a bit strong. It was touching and cute in a way, but she couldn't help but wonder if it was just a crush from him. Fleeting and passionate, but without substance. She couldn't really place why he'd be so interested in her. She could just flat ask him of course, but that wouldn't be wholly appropriate.
"Yes, I really must thank Friesden for setting this up for us. It has been a relaxing evening, a nice distraction from practicing one thing or another. And it's been nice spending time with you too, I don't get many opportunities like this."
Deep down, she felt guilty for encouraging him. They had only been on a single date for less than an hour, but she feared what would happen if she never could get over Estoc. She didn't want to lead Heiro on... But, it was far too early for that, so she kept the smile on her face and the wine glass to her lips... buck!
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 24, 2012, 03:36:13 am
He looks at his plate intently, the worries starting to get to him.
'Come on now little bro, you start getting all depressed and this will really turn out bad.'
'Right, stay happy, worry about tomorrow, tomorrow. Laugh today.'
Heiro smiles "Well then we're both enjoying ourselves. And I get to be on a date with the best pony in the fort." His eyes open wide, as if he didn't mean to say that out loud, and he blushes deeply, looking at Falcata.
Post by: Telgin on January 24, 2012, 03:53:58 am
Maybe she misheard him. She didn't know how he'd think she was the best pony in Glitterglen. There were plenty of other ponies better than her here in lots of ways. Better fighters, better friends, better parents... she was just... herself. Had she really done something that big to impress him so?
Post by: Dsarker on January 24, 2012, 02:52:48 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 25, 2012, 12:27:55 am
Post by: Telgin on January 25, 2012, 12:35:04 am
Post by: TALLPANZER on January 25, 2012, 01:19:47 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 25, 2012, 02:00:28 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 25, 2012, 02:01:48 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 25, 2012, 02:09:50 am
Post by: Telgin on January 25, 2012, 02:29:18 am
She still didn't know if she really believed all of that, but... well... maybe she had done something right here in Glitterglen after all.
Post by: Dsarker on January 25, 2012, 03:02:09 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 25, 2012, 03:04:27 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 25, 2012, 03:19:00 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 25, 2012, 02:59:31 pm
Heiro smiles, his mind racing. She had hugged him, and she wasn't backing away. Maybe she did feel something for him... hopefully. Every word he had said was true... but had nopony else really said anything? Well he had now, and he would remind her whenever she needed it.
"It's nice seeing you happy, and enjoying yourself. I-I was really worried that I would mess up somehow..."
Post by: Telgin on January 25, 2012, 03:47:21 pm
Her smile broadens a bit as she looks back to him. "It's nice to see you happy too. And don't worry, you're doing quite well to say this is your first date. You should have heard some of the things I've said and done on dates before." Another, slightly louder chuckle leaves her lips. Oh, some of the things she'd said to Estoc...
Her own mind was racing, as much as it could through the fogginess of the wine, which had by now completely left her glass for her stomach... when did that happen? She really did think of Heiro as a good friend, but as a potential lover? She had loved and lost once already... she really didn't know if she could love again. And... what would Estoc think of this? If only there was some way she could talk to him...
A nagging thought kept creeping back into her mind. Heiro was so young... she did feel a bit like she was helping a son along with some new task. "So, you say you've felt like this for a while... I must admit I'm still a bit surprised. I'm at least a decade older than you, and I would think most stallions would be a bit... intimidated... by me outranking them."
Maybe she shouldn't have said that... but with the wine loosening her jaw she just couldn't keep it in.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 25, 2012, 06:47:52 pm
He thinks for a bit, "Well, it doesn't matter to me at least. You're who you are, and I like it. The other stuff don't matter... or it shouldn't at least."
Post by: Telgin on January 25, 2012, 07:04:03 pm
She couldn't quite place why, but she felt a little warm and fuzzy inside. Maybe it was just the wine. Maybe it wasn't. She enjoyed Heiro's company, and the evening had only reinforced that. But, she was going to have to take some time to let all of this settle in her head. She was on a date. She'd have never believed this would happen any time soon, if ever.
((I'll be on the IRC in a few hours, but I'll keep checking up on the thread. Not sure if you've got something else for Heiro to say, but I suppose Friesden and Otik might at least.))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 26, 2012, 12:55:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 01:03:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 26, 2012, 01:17:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 01:19:14 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 01:29:20 am
"Umm... You wanna take a walk somewhere? Maybe we could go out and look at the stars? O-or maybe just walk around the fort some?"
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 01:35:31 am
"Alright, a walk sounds nice." She moves to stand but finds her limbs heavy and unresponsive. She takes a step and nearly stumbles, which she finds inexplicably amusing. A chuckle bordering on a giggle passes her lips. "Oh... um, I think... maybe I've had a bit too much wine..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 01:37:32 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 01:37:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 26, 2012, 01:38:44 am
"...I think yer brother has this well in hand, hun. Let's follow 'em."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 01:40:08 am
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 01:40:24 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 01:45:04 am
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 01:52:50 am
"Here we are..." she says unnecessarily as they arrive at her door, just across from the duchess' quarters. Hopefully Lady Charity wouldn't see her like this at least.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 02:06:25 am
'I don't think Falcata would want Kris seeing her like this... I hope she understands what I'm actually saying...'
'I'm sure she will bro... Nice thinking putting it in a way that lets her keep her pride'
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 02:09:13 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 02:11:14 am
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 02:18:39 am
"Hi, honey. Mr. Heiro came by and offered for you to stay with him tonight. Would you like to?"
Kris perks up, closes her book and hops down with a smile on her face. "Oh! Okay, I haven't seen Mr. Heiro in a while. Let me go grab my things."
As Kris trots off to do just that, Falcata turns back to Heiro with a tired smile on her face. "Thank you again."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 26, 2012, 02:24:57 am
Post by: Telgin on January 26, 2012, 02:39:12 am
Kris trots back into the room and up to Heiro. "Okay, I'm ready!"
As the two leave, Falcata slowly turns back to the bed and shuffles over to it, eyes still wide. He... just kissed her. She hadn't been kissed in years. He clearly felt something for her. She extinguishes the light with her magic as she collapses into the bed, feeling exhausted both mentally and physically. There was so much to think about... so, so much...
Could she do this? Why not? What was there to be afraid of? Did she have feelings for him? She hadn't noticed them before... but she couldn't rule it out completely. He was a nice pony... and a bit cute. She couldn't deny that, especially during the date.
But a kiss... she... she wasn't expecting that. He was new to dating, he said... just expressing his feelings. But she worried. He must feel very strongly for her. What if she couldn't reciprocate? What then? She didn't want to break his heart. But she still didn't know him all that well. Maybe she would come to have feelings for him too? Maybe she already did? Hidden and buried under her past with Estoc?
So much to think about... and right now, she just wanted to fall asleep. She still had that walk she owed him. Maybe that would help settle her thoughts a bit.
((Scene concluded.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 03:14:29 pm
She hoped the duchess was there. She'd see. Friesden still felt angry at the way the duchess had talked about Heiro. About her brother. But now she'd have to admit that she was wrong, and Friesden was feeling a bit happier at this.
She came to the door and swung it open, a victorious smile on her face.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 03:23:56 pm
"So, um... how did it go?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 03:27:14 pm
"It was...it was good."
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 03:32:21 pm
"I love you. I'm sorry about Charity."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 03:36:38 pm
"Wh-wh-why doesn't she li-li-like him?"
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 04:54:10 pm
I embrace Friesden and try to wipe some of her tears.
"I think they do."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 04:56:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 04:59:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 05:00:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 05:07:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 05:09:43 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 05:21:10 pm
I kiss Friesden, happy that somepony so wonderful could love me back.
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 05:22:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 05:50:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 05:55:28 pm
"Mmm, Friesden..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 05:56:39 pm
"Mmm, Khenal..."
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 06:10:47 pm
"Good morning, beautiful."
I reach up to kiss Friesden, not caring for anything in the world but her.
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 06:12:50 pm
"I love you so much."
She leans down to kiss Khenal again.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 06:16:30 pm
I say before accepting the kiss, returning ounce for ounce every bit of love and passion that the most wonderful mare in the world has to give.
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 06:20:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 06:22:13 pm
"Heh, I think that'd be a good idea."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 06:24:21 pm
"Well? What are we waiting for?"
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 06:27:31 pm
"After you, M'Lady."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 06:30:20 pm
"Thank you, sir knight!" she says with a huge smile on her face, and walks through, waiting for him on the other side.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 06:44:07 pm
"Shall we?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 06:45:23 pm
"Yes, let's!" she says before ducking down into the wing again.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 09:22:40 pm
"We have arrived, M'Lady."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 09:26:11 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 09:34:25 pm
"What would you like to eat, M'Lady?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 09:41:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 09:52:11 pm
"Your breakfast, M'Lady!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 09:55:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 09:58:40 pm
I laugh a bit, finally letting the act drop a bit.
"So, I've never actually had these before. Any advice on how to eat them?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 10:02:47 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 10:06:12 pm
'Huh, surprisingly nice texture, kinda crispy. Tastes a bit plain, but not bad at all.'
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 10:09:35 pm
As heavenly as it had always been...
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 10:13:56 pm
"These are good! They go nice with the fisherberry wine, too."
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 10:16:41 pm
"Yes....they do...."
She drains another glass of wine, tears starting to form.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 10:21:56 pm
"Is something wrong, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 10:23:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 10:31:13 pm
"Dad? It's me, Khenal. Friesden, are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 10:34:03 pm
Before long, snores begin to emanate from her mouth.
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 11:18:43 pm
"Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 11:20:03 pm
"Mmmmm, Khenal..."
Post by: Khenal on January 26, 2012, 11:23:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 26, 2012, 11:28:52 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 27, 2012, 12:00:43 am
I need to be careful about letting Friesden drink too much. I thought she had gotten full closure on her dealings with her father, but she thought I was him for a moment before she passed out from some fisherberry wine.
Khenal's Sequel, Chapter 60
Continuing to train Falcata in her focus. I think she's gotten used to most of what I've tried to do to distract her, but Friesden gave me some new ammo a few days ago, I think. Falcata and Heiro went on a date! I think they make a cute couple, and I bet I could distract her by asking about how their date went. Even if that trips her up, I think she's almost ready to learn a few more spells.
Post by: Telgin on January 27, 2012, 12:31:28 am
Today was just totally unexpected in so many ways. Friesden came by my home today and lured me to the dining hall with Heiro, where she'd set us up on a date! I had absolutely no idea she was planning such a thing, or that Heiro was even really interested! Truth be told, I was horrified initially, but I resisted the urge to flee and in the end I actually had a good night. Other than the fact I got pretty drunk, I must have looked ridiculous.
I really don't know if I'm ready to move on past Estoc yet, and I'm a bit worried that Heiro might just be caught up in a crush on me. He even kissed me! That's not something you normally do on a first date. I think. Either way, I owe him a walk later. I hope I can collect my thoughts by then.
18th Galena, 100
I thought another training session with Khenal would help me put all of that aside, but I was quite mistaken. I knew he'd have something else to trip me up, and he certainly did. Apparently Friesden told him about my date with Heiro, and when he was testing my concentration again he brought it up. Poof, spell broken. I probably shouldn't let it get to me so much. I'm just worried what will happen if I end up breaking Heiro's heart. That's the last thing I would want to do to somepony, but it's going to take some time for me to get all of this... processed. I don't know.
Anyway, Khenal seems to think that I've learned to focus well enough. I managed to finish the session without blowing any more spells, so that's a good thing I suppose. I wonder what he has in store for me next?
Post by: Khenal on January 27, 2012, 12:47:36 am
Falcata's latest session will be today, and I think I've got several good spells to teach her. She's not particularly strong in magic, she uses it more like it's another tool than something to focus on, which is a good thing. Her strongest area seems to be abjurations, spells that interfere with or strengthen other spells. First, I'll teach her how to sever a spell. A lot of spells are too fast to sever, but stronger spells need time. If the flow is broken, they can suffer some serious backlash, like I have in the past.
Which leads to the next thing I want to teach her: how to avoid backlash. The principal is easy, just always have some simple and fast spell ready whenever you cast something. It's pretty dificult to do for everything, but I think she can handle it.
I'd also like to teach her some wards and my tracking spell. I don't know how far we'll get today, but we'll keep practicing!
Khenal's Secret, Chapter 2
The Book of the Sisters had some good general information on the Elements, if that's really what's happening here. If so, Laughter and Magic are still to come. The Scriptures indicate that Magic will likely appear last. Magic still confuses me, though. I've seen so much wrong done with magic, done so much wrong with it, to really be able to think of it as a virtue. Starkey's words from in the jungle keep coming back to me, though. He said that maybe it's a more poetic interpretation of magic than I'm thinking. It still seems weird to me, though.
Post by: Telgin on January 27, 2012, 01:26:47 am
I've been practicing with Khenal some more. We've finally gotten to the part I've been waiting patiently for: learning new spells. I'm a bit of a joke of a unicorn there, I only know a very few spells and of them all only my stunning spell is of any real use in my current job. If Lady Charity was attacked by a unicorn or alicorn, I'd be all but helpless trying to protect her. She is much better at defending herself magically than I am, which is a bit embarassing, considering our positions.
But, before we get to anything flashy, Khenal said I needed to learn how to sever active spells. I think he was right: that's a key to protecting somepony against hostile magic, and an invaluable tool to have. It sounded easy, but it was anything but. To sever the spells of somepony else, I have to sense them and react before they're finished. I'm a lot slower than Khenal there, and I find it very hard to detect other spells being cast. I did eventually manage to sever one of his test spells, and I must admit it felt pretty good when I did finally pull it off. I know I'll never be able to do it in combat at the speed at which I can react to it, but he says I'll get better with time.
I forgot how much I enjoyed working with him. It's just like when he was my captain all over again. He's a natural at teaching and leading I think, no matter what he might think. He exemplifies just how much of a difference it makes when you're supportive of students instead of yelling at them. I've seen the latter a time or two in my career. Earning the ire of your students or subordinates doesn't get you far in the end.
24th Galena, 100
I had another session with Khenal today. I wasn't sure what sort of spell he'd try to get me to practice today, but I was surprised to learn that he was going to teach me to avoid magical backlash instead of a new spell. I was confused at first, that's not something I've ever experienced. Until today.
The idea was simple: if too much magic builds up through some means or another, it can backfire on you with pretty bad results. If you've got another spell ready to cast and drain it away, you can avoid it.
Well, there's a few problems with that. First, I find it almost impossible to channel two spells at once. The best I can do is something small and quick while I've got telekinesis going, and even then I drop stuff sometimes. I don't think I've ever channeled so much power at once before, and it was very, very hard for me to build up enough for him to show me what he meant. I don't think he actually intended for a backlash to happen, but it did.
My head still hurts. One of the most painful things I've experienced, perhaps aside from giving birth. He said what happened wasn't a real backlash, thankfully, but a sort of build up to one. If it had been a real one I probably wouldn't be able to use my magic at all for weeks. I can still use mine, thank goodness, but it hurts a lot to do so. I think we'll have to postpone our sessions for a few days while I recover. If it had been a real backlash, I might be in the hospital right now.
Apparently the little spell I had ready to absorb it wasn't enough. Or maybe it was, the surprise caught me off guard and I lost both spells. I suppose we'll be trying it again, I'd definitely want to know how to avoid this in the future.
30th Galena,
It took me a few days to get back to more or less normal, and we did some more practicing with the backlash prevention. I managed to avoid hurting myself this time, and I think I've got the defenses down for it at least. I managed to catch a small backlash with my stun spell, which I'm embarrassed to admit went off on Khenal. He was fine, thankfully, and I was practically beside myself when it happened.
After he caught his breath, he said he wanted me to teach it to him. I hadn't even thought about it, I figured it was something he knew already. But I'll gladly show him how to do it, it's the least I can do.
Instead of that, he showed me the beginnings of a few spells that I think will be immensely useful. He showed me the basics of how to track ponies by using something close to them, and how to erect magical wards to protect somepony. This way, if Lady Charity ever goes missing maybe I can find her, and if I have to protect her I can actually do so with my magic now.
It's going to take me a long time to get the hang of these spells though. When I listen to Khenal describing how to perform them, I think he almost sees the magic in a way I never can. I'm making some progress, but I know I'll never have the power or skill he possesses. I'm just thankful he's sharing as much as he can with me. I really must find some way to thank him properly, teaching him a single spell is hardly adequate payment for what he's doing for me.
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 12:16:12 am
Do you know what the best part of teaching somepony is, my Sequel? It's not watching a student get the joy of learning something new, though that's a very close 2nd. It's getting to learn something yourself. Falcata knows a very nice stun spell, and she's willing to teach it to me!
She accidentally hit me with it while we were practicing avoiding backlash. It was her quick spell to use the energy before it could do anything to her. It's really an amazing spell! Total paralysis and numbing, along with a dazing effect as well! Even better, she claims it's absolutely non-lethal! I don't know the specifics of how it works, yet. If I had to guess, I'd say it blocks the conscious sending of signals along the nerves. That's why it dazes and paralyses, but doesn't have nasty side-effects like stopping the heart. I can't wait for her to teach it to me!
As far as her studies go, she's showing slow but steady progress. She was having some serious issues with preventing backlash, I think I might have explained it wrong. It looked like she was trying to channel two spells instead of having one ready to fall back on. It's not so much switching spells as it is catching and redirecting the energy before it can ground out through your horn. She keeps insisting she's not very good with magic, but that spell of hers has me convinced otherwise. She just needs to get some confidence in her abilities, I think.
Khenal's Secret, Chapter 3
I've hit a bit of a wall in my attempted study of the Elements: There doesn't appear to be any other books on them! I think I might ask the others about them, see if they can remember what happened before the strange lettering appeared. I don't know if we are dealing with actual manifestations of the Elements or something else, but asking everypony about them could yield some clues.
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 12:36:19 am
Khenal found some time tonight for us to practice together again. He wanted to lead off by changing the flow of things a bit: he asked me to show him how to cast my stun spell. I don't think I've ever taught anypony how to use it before. Kris is the only pony I've taught any magic to, and all of that was very simple things like how to lift stuff.
We practiced it on some animals that were caught in the traps. The stun isn't harmful really, but I can say from experience that it's not pleasant. Still, it's the best way to learn it, and the animals were fine afterward. I think it took me a few days to learn that spell when Sergeant Guisarme taught it to me in Coupledye. Khenal learned it in less than an hour! He has a lot of experience with mental magic, I suppose it was only a small step away from what he was used to. It was the physical part of it he'd never thought to try before, and I'm hardly an expert on anatomy, but I managed to explain it well enough I suppose. It's the part of the spine you target that's tricky: get it wrong and you'll only daze your opponent for a few moments.
He was, for lack of a better word, ecstatic when he learned it. I felt pretty good too, I must say. I have to admit I never thought I'd be able to teach him anything, but I'm glad I could, and I hope he gets some use out of it. He seemed to think he may well could.
After that, we practiced some more with the spells he was teaching me and how to avoid backlash. Turns out I was sort of doing that wrong, which explains the difficulty I was having. He explained how to keep a spell in reserve, which is a lot easier to do than what I was trying. That's probably why it backfired in the first place.
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 12:47:46 am
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 12:54:01 am
She enters the arena and sees Khenal practicing some personal exercise. She waits for a what looks like a good moment to interrupt and says, "Hello." She looks around the room, taking in its vastness. "Trying for something a bit different tonight?"
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:03:22 am
"Yep! Have you ever shared a spell?"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:06:02 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:09:18 am
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:14:16 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:18:37 am
"Excellent! It's not too complicated. Basically, I just add my magic to yours and you control what is cast. Maybe see how quickly you can swing your hammer for our test? Give it a few practice swings now, so we have a good baseline."
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:24:14 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:28:31 am
My horn glows and I seek the base of Falcata's horn with my magic, trying to gently establish the link to allow her to channel some of my magic.
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:37:44 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:43:40 am
"Ah, good! Do a few more swings so I can get a feel for the regulation of energy, please."
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:47:55 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 01:50:22 am
"Good! Try a telekinetic push or two next, if you would?"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 01:58:43 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 02:02:31 am
"Very good! Try a few other spells!"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 02:13:04 am
Her mane stands on end as the power builds, and culminates in a massive bolt of violet electricity arcing from her horn onto a weapon rack a short distance away. She recoils at the sudden outburst. That much power... she could have really hurt somepony. She flashes Khenal a nervous smile and tries to straighten her mane. "Um, maybe a bad choice..."
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 02:17:58 am
"Nice evocation. I might need to ask you the details of that one, too. Try a ward, then I think we can wrap this up. Telekinetic defense, please."
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 02:33:02 am
"Anyway... let me see...." She takes a moment to trace the shapes Khenal had shown her to erect the ward. The magic was building up again, definitely uncomfortable again. She hurries to finish the shapes in the dust, feeling the magical pressure grow. Painful... it was getting painful! Oh, buck... what was she supposed to do again?! The ward wasn't ready yet, she couldn't cast it... oww.... oww.... do something!
Without a further thought she shuts her eyes and casts the fastest spell she knew. The room flashes briefly as the magic is drained away into a bubble of semi-permeable magic. She takes a few cautious breaths as she opens her eyes and places a hoof against her aching head. At least the pain wasn't nearly as bad as last time, and was already dwindling. She stands tall from the startled crouch she was in and tries to relax. Her tail was bushed up completely at the adrenaline infused panic.
She looks over to Khenal through the water tight bubble and smiles weakly. "I... think I actually managed to catch that one..." She rubs her forehead and adds, "Let me relax a second... and try again..."
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 02:38:28 am
I slow the magical flow to a bare trickle, just enough to keep it going in case Falcata wishes to continue, then carefully approach her bubble to examine it closer. After a few moments, I gently prod it with a hoof, finding it solid.
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 02:43:38 am
Another deep breath to level her nerves, and she focuses again. She finishes the symbols in the dust, finding them slightly disturbed by the bubble she'd just cast. After a moment of fussing over them, she concentrates and draws in the magic Khenal was feeding her. The room is filled with another flash as she raises the ward. The ethereal wall looked more opaque than she recalled, and she could feel a comparatively large amount of power flowing through her into it. "There..."
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 02:57:08 am
"Looks good. Keep channeling into the ward, I'm going to see how this effects my casting."
I check the flow for buildup before going through my own arcane kata. I levitate a training spear in a few blocks and strikes before tossing it at an imaginary foe. Turning to Falcata and the shield, I send a few telekinetic thrusts, happy that they break on the shield with no spike in the flow to Falcata. Finally, I hurl a small fireball at the weapon rack that Falcata had zapped and erect a small telekinetic shield. Breathing heavily with the exertion, I turn back to Falcata.
"Whew, that's a good workout! Ready for me to stop the flow?"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 03:01:45 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 03:08:14 am
"Whew, ya. I haven't actually heard of anypony doing that before, actually. I got the idea from my construct spell, actually. It actually siphons off a bit of my magic when I cast it, so I wondered if another pony could do that. Thanks for you help. Huff, uh... did you feel any difficulty in casting your spells? Anything feel too different?"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 03:14:22 am
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 03:22:51 am
"Ya, too much power can be hard to control. That's why I always stress focus and control in the lessons. Magic can be very powerful, but can also get out of hand if you aren't careful. I think that's why a lot of alicorns are... arrogant. We have so much power, but we rarely learn how to channel it efficiently. We rarely need to..."
I hang my head a bit, before shaking it and trying to put on a smile.
"Heh, but enough about the past. Would you like to practice doing this some more in our sessions? I think we could handle some serious threats to Glitterglen and Charity if we can get this down easier."
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 03:29:51 am
"Yes, I think we should. Working together is always preferable to working alone. This has potential to be very useful..."
Post by: Khenal on January 28, 2012, 03:41:56 am
"I'm glad you agree. I'm running out of things I can think to actually teach now, we're pretty much down to practice. Are there any other spells you might like to learn?"
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 03:54:14 am
((Scene concluded.))
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 11:42:48 pm
She steps into the hallway and starts back toward her home. It would probably feel good to practice some meditation when she got back and settled. She always felt a lot better after doing that.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 28, 2012, 11:48:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 28, 2012, 11:52:14 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 28, 2012, 11:55:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 28, 2012, 11:56:22 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on January 28, 2012, 11:58:13 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 12:02:49 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 12:06:02 am
"Umm So..." He shuffles his hooves a bit. "Are you... well, do you have any plans tonight?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 12:06:25 am
She develops another mile-long stare.
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 12:09:52 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 12:14:00 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 12:18:13 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 12:20:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 12:22:20 am
All the same, Khenal was amazing...Maybe she could do that next time...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 12:29:17 am
As they reach the surface, he turns to her. "I-I was thinking we could walk a bit out into t-the forest... it's r-really pretty in some places."
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 12:35:19 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 12:37:16 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 12:40:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 12:40:50 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 12:45:06 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 12:49:22 am
She looks over to him. "How about you? I suppose things have been pretty uneventful in the guard lately."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 12:55:29 am
He stops and looks up at the stars through a clearing in the trees. "S-stars are really pretty tonight..." He shuffles his hooves again. "Y-you're prettier though..." He mumbles quietly.
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 01:03:48 am
"T-the stars are pretty tonight." She looks up and tries to pick out any constellations, failing miserably. "I wish I knew more about astronomy, it's all just little pricks of light to me."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 01:08:08 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 01:14:56 am
"I haven't had a chance to thank her yet either. And I've been thinking about it a lot too..." She looks over to Heiro, wondering if he would like to volunteer his feelings before she did.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 01:27:05 am
'Come on kid, tell her how you feel, don't worry so much about what will happen afterwords.'
Heiro takes a breath and tries to think of the words. "I-I really would like to... to be your c-coltfriend... I-I've liked you for a long t-time..."
He swallows and looks back at her. "I-I know h-how much E-Estoc meant to you... s-so I-I g-guess I c-can understand i-if you d-don't feel l-like t-trying..." He looks down trying to think of more to say, and waiting for the response.
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 01:30:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 01:34:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 01:35:29 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 01:41:49 am
She gives him a sad smile. "Yes... I loved Estoc dearly. When he was taken from me..." she trails off, trying not to think about it too much. She didn't want to destroy the mood by getting upset right now. "...well... I was afraid of having to go through that again... or possibly do that to somepony else. That... that was over four years ago now, though. Estoc has gone on to a better place... and I've had a lot of time to think about it lately..."
Her expression brightens slightly. She hadn't admitted it to herself for a while, but here goes nothing... "Coltfriend and fillyfriend? Well..." she steps over and gives him a small nuzzle. "I think I'd like that." She had been alone for a long time... too long, maybe.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 01:44:48 am
"Friesden, did ye hear that? She said yes! Falcata said yes!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 01:46:08 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 01:50:18 am
He smiles really wide, "S-so, shall w-we continue o-our walk? T-there's p-plenty of t-time left b-before-" He stops his ear twitching.
"S-sis? A-are you s-spying on u-us?" His face turns a bright red as he realizes that they're being watched.
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 01:53:04 am
"Friesden? Lieutenant? Wha..."
Had they been... spying on them?
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 01:53:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 01:57:28 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 01:58:23 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 02:02:44 am
And Lieutenant Otik kind of had a point. It could be pretty dangerous out here. After what happened last time and all...
"I... I see..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:11:17 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 02:16:02 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:17:28 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 29, 2012, 02:22:31 am
"Wossat, Heiro? Ye went on a date? That's wonderful, lad!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 02:23:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:38:34 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 02:40:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:44:15 am
She runs back to the fortress in tears.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 02:45:25 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 02:47:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:47:59 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 02:51:43 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 02:56:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 02:57:47 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 02:59:07 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 03:00:42 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 03:02:15 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 03:04:07 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 03:06:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 03:10:48 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 03:13:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 03:18:28 am
"Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you this will be the best party ever!"
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 03:21:12 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 03:23:14 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 03:33:15 am
She bids Friesden farewell and follows Heiro back to her home. A nap right now would do her a lot of good. It hurt her so much when Friesden got upset, but at least she seemed happy now. And she wasn't the only one. The butterflies she felt were still there, but now mixed with some excitement. She hadn't felt this way in quite a few years.
She stops in front of the door and reaches for her key. Well, what to say now?
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 03:37:31 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 03:45:21 am
Falcata looks at Heiro and mutters, "Well... I..." She really didn't know what to say... she was sort of still processing the idea that he'd even asked!
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 03:47:41 am
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 03:57:44 am
Kris' eyes open wide and her mouth drops slightly as she sees it.
Falcata smiles at Heiro. "Good night."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 29, 2012, 04:02:37 am
"G-goodnight." He looks into the room and sees Kris "Oh g-goodnight to you too Kris. Umm hope you both sleep well..."
Heiro turns and leaves, returning to his own room, his spirits higher than they had ever been.
Post by: Telgin on January 29, 2012, 04:10:43 am
She nods, a coy smile on her face. "Yes... we've had a couple of dates now..." Did tonight count? She'd count it anyway.
Kris hops up from the bed, her dumbstruck expression changing to a small grin. "Cool! I really like Mr. Heiro." Her expression drifts to confusion. "But... what about... dad?"
Falcata steps over to her and places a hoof on her cheek. "We'll talk about that later." She knew she hadn't seen the last of that herself yet, but maybe talking about it with Kris would extinguish the last of her reservations. Right now, she just wanted to catch some sleep.
((Scene concluded.))
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 08:01:01 pm
Having given her requests, she went to the dining hall and began to prepare the decorations.
Post by: Khenal on January 29, 2012, 09:10:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 09:58:24 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 29, 2012, 10:11:04 pm
I let the magic quickly fade and join Friesden outside.
"Everything is ready?"
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 10:32:29 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 29, 2012, 10:38:33 pm
"I hope so! I've never actually done anything like this before."
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 10:47:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 29, 2012, 10:51:11 pm
I offer my wing as a cloak, always ready to treat Friesden as the Lady she is, and smile.
Post by: Dsarker on January 29, 2012, 10:54:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 29, 2012, 11:19:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 12:35:31 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 12:38:12 am
"Ahaha! No, I'm ticklish!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 12:40:21 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 12:44:34 am
"N-n-no, ahaha! S-st-s-stop, hehehe!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 12:46:13 am
Friesden continues to tickle Khenal furiously.
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 12:49:56 am
"Ahahaha! M-Ahahaha! Mer-Ha! Hahaha! Mer-*gasp*-Mercy! Ahahahaha!!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 12:51:45 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 12:57:51 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 12:59:54 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 02:25:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:27:22 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 02:29:18 am
"I'd say Friesden is the best kisser, I'm just glad I can keep up."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 02:32:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:34:30 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 02:41:24 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 02:42:46 am
"The party should be great. Friesden planned it, after all."
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:44:03 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 02:45:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:46:03 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 02:47:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:49:12 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 02:51:53 am
"Heh, I hope so."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 02:52:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 02:57:27 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 03:02:00 am
'Come on, Khenal. You've fought daemons and braved hostile mindscapes! You can put on a show for... all... of... Glitterglen
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 03:43:57 am
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 03:50:17 pm
'Oh ya, smooth change of subject.'
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 03:55:07 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 04:14:36 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 04:20:58 pm
"Wow," Kris says as she follows her in. "It's almost like Mr. Khenal's birthday party."
So... where to begin? Falcata leads Kris inside and tries to pick out who was already present.
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 04:24:11 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 04:41:43 pm
"Come on, big brother! Let's go talk to your fillyfriend!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 04:47:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 04:52:32 pm
Kris grins and adds "Hey Mr. Heiro and Ms. Friesden! This looks great!"
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 04:56:07 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 06:34:25 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 06:39:04 pm
She thinks for a moment, trying to come up with some more small talk when Khenal's music catches her ear. "She really thought of everything."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 06:42:39 pm
Charity thinks to herself. "Friesden really knows how to throw a party, but it's this all a little much."
Adamant her eldest son, is there his silk shirt dirty from a hard day in the mines, he wanders off to try and talk to Kris, the only filly close to his age in Glitterglen. The rest of the kids run off to find their own friends.
Charity looks for her friends, and sees several of them in a group, she and Cryptson move to join them. Madush and Osal being on duty, keep back and watch for trouble.
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 06:47:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on January 30, 2012, 06:48:32 pm
"Come on, everypony! Time to dance!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 06:48:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 06:50:50 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 06:56:57 pm
Cryptson looks as if he feels uncomfortable throughout this conversation.
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 07:35:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 07:41:52 pm
Kris shly accepts Adamant's attempts to speak with her. She didn't really know him, and her mom always told her not to bother anypony in the royal famaily, not that she had many chances to, but he seemed like a nice pony. He was the one starting the conversation after all, so she follows him and tries her best to find common ground to speak on.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 07:47:25 pm
"No, Friesden I didn't mean that. Just from what I've seen of each of them, I don't see their personalities meshing well, though I haven't had that much interaction with Heiro, so maybe I'm wrong."
'That was good right, nice and diplomatic. Might get myself out of this hole I just dug yet.'
Meanwhile...
Adamant says to Kris, "It's, uh, kind of loud in here, what with everypony talking and the music and stuff, uh, maybe we could go downstairs and talk for a bit? uh, just the two of us."
He is clearly nervous.
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 07:50:36 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 07:58:55 pm
Kris raises a hoof to her chin as she thinks. After what happened to Lilac, she didn't really have any friends left in Glitterglen. Not her age at least. And wasnt her mom friends with Lady Charity? "Um... okay." She follows Adamant as he leads. "Where are we going?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 08:03:24 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 08:09:04 pm
"Certainly," she replies, keeping the smile on her face. "I don't know how myself, hopefully I won't step on your hooves too much..."
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 08:10:25 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 08:13:41 pm
Elsewhere, in the storeroom near the arena.
((If you want to avoid the Nadsat skip everything after the spoiler.))
Spoiler: Nadsat Free Version (click to show/hide)
"The guards finally gone, raz to itty." whispers one of the two caged Keshi thieves.
The twisted pony pulls a key from it's hiding place and unlocks his cage.
"How'd you get that klootch, droog?" asks his neighbor as the first frees the second.
"Got it from that indigo chasso, he's a lomtick daft. Picked his carman and I still don't think he knows that he's missing it."
"Thanks droog, let's get out of here, I don't want to end up as cupcakes like the Boss."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 08:23:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 09:30:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 09:39:35 pm
"Hm they are kind of cute trying to dance, aren't they dear," says Charity to Cryptson.
"...Eeyup." is all the reply she receives as Cryptson looks out onto the dance floor lost in thought.
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 11:18:12 pm
Kris follows Adamant to the arena, awed by the vastness of the structure. She'd never had any reason to be there before, but Adamant would have permission to go pretty much anywhere right? "Wow... I've never been here before. Mom comes here sometimes, but she tells me it's dangerous and I should stay away."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 11:27:20 pm
'This is amazing... she really meant it... she's my fillyfriend.'
'Of course she did bro. You are amazing, as is she. But she is going to be sore if you don't stop stepping on her hooves.'
'S-sis!'
Post by: Dsarker on January 30, 2012, 11:34:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 11:37:19 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 30, 2012, 11:38:11 pm
Suddenly the door to the cage room creaks open, and the two Keshi ponies step out, shivs in there mouths ready to cut anypony who tried to stop their escape.
Spoiler: Nadsat Free Version (click to show/hide)
"Our luck keeps getting better droog, a dva of foals to help us in our quest for liberty." says the first Diomedian.
"And smot that filly is a unicorn, I bet old Borislav will want to meet her." says the second.
Adamant postitions himself between Kris and the thieves. "I am no foal and you will not harm her."
"You think you can stop us colt. Cute. Come quietly or will have to vred you." speaks the first.
"Kris run! Get the..." Says Adamant before he is cut off as one of the Diomedians jumps him and strikes him in the head with a strong buck.
Adamant hits the ground with a thud, alive but unconscious.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 30, 2012, 11:45:39 pm
'Oh? Oh! Yes... like a fight, move to follow or to lead... well I think I have taught you enough to be able to handle this yes?'
'I-I think so... still don't know what I'm doing but...'
Heiro continues the dance, treating the steps like one of Midnights fighting lessons.
'Just like big sis taught me, smooth, flowing, each movement leading to the next.'
Post by: Telgin on January 30, 2012, 11:50:25 pm
Kris backs away from the two keshis slowly, her mouth hanging open and eyes wide. Oh no... no... no... they shouldn't have come down here... As Adamant falls from the blow to his head, she flounders for a few fatal moments trying to decide if she should stay and try to help him, or flee and get help. She finally turns and bolts for the door as fast as her legs could carry her.
"Mom! Anypony! HELP!!!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 12:07:43 am
Spoiler: Nadsat free version (click to show/hide)
The other Diomedian rushes after Kris.
"No you don't my malenky pony. You're coming with like us."
The Keshi tackles Kris to the ground. She struggles and kicks and fails and screams, but the Diomedian is too strong for her.
"You shut up, or I'll shive your gorlo, and none of that funny magic either."
The second one says to the other, "Hey, this odin ain't dead, his skull is tougher than I messel? Should I oobivat him?"
"Nah, skvat him too, might be polezny, if only as a hostage till we get out of this hell hole.
"Right."
The two Diomedians, make their way up the stairs toward the surface of the fort. They pass several ponies along the way, but with their blades at the necks of the foals of two of the most important ponies in Glitterglen, nopony tries to stop them.
Just as they reach the surface, one of the ponies runs into the dinning hall and yells over the music, "Jail Break!"
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 12:11:55 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 12:13:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on January 31, 2012, 12:16:08 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 12:23:38 am
Charity and Cryptson walk over to hear what is happening, the Duchess says, "Tell me, what's happened. We need details."
"Your highness." Ebsas bows. "..I...I'm so sorry Duchess, I...we...We saw two Diomedians, Keshi's, in the fortress, making their way up the stairs. They...They had your son, Adamant, and a young mare with a rainbow mane. They threatened to kill them if we didn't let them pass. I'm sorry. They are probably making for the jungle as we speak."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 12:25:51 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 12:29:41 am
This wasn't happening. This wasn't happening. This wasn't happening.
It was daylight... they'd catch the diomedians. They'd find Kris and Adamant. They had to. She couldn't let anything else happen.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 12:34:18 am
'Calm down brother, you can't fight like this'
'Its Kris I'll do more than fight I'll, I'll'
'STOP! Give me control. I will handle these two.'
'A-alright... but you had better kill them.'
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 12:41:12 am
Cryptson too is stunned, he is racked with indecision. He wants to be there for Charity, but his son is in danger. After a few seconds and a kiss of his wife's cheek, he dashes off to his room and curses his lack of magic as he struggles to get his armor on as fast as possible.
Meanwhile the theives have reached the surface.
Spoiler: The not actually needed for this one Nadsat free version (click to show/hide)
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 12:45:30 am
She scowls at the keshi disappearing into the brush ahead and redoubles her efforts. They would regret this sorely... she was going to crush the life from them when she got her hooves on them.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 12:48:57 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 12:57:36 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 01:01:17 am
The stallion was chasing him... where was the mare? Oh, who cared? There wasn't time to think about that!
***
Falcata keeps her eyes focused on the keshi ahead of her, watching intently as he dodges trees and weaves between fallen branches. Kris catches sight of somepony chasing after them and shouts, "Mom! Mom, help!"
Falcata's blood runs cold as she realizes that it was definitely Kris, and she was chasing the pony that was her captor. Fury fills her as she leaps over a boulder he'd sidestepped to close the distance.
The keshi smacks Kris with a flick of his head. "Shut it you! Nopony's gonna help you!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 01:06:54 am
'That one... that would be Adamant right? Good, Falcata can save her daughter, but we need to move faster if we're going to catch this one'
'You can do it sis, and after he's safe we can follow Falcata... I have to be sure Kris is safe...'
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 01:21:49 am
He draws his shiv and backs away.
***
"Yer gonna have to run faster ya old mare!" the keshi taunts as Falcata continues to chase.
"Mommy! Mom! HELP!" Kris continues to call.
A terrible realization begins to overcome Falcata as she realizes she wasn't gaining any distance on the keshi. He was faster than her, even with Kris in tow. What could she do? Every cry from Kris tore at her heart, and she vaults over another obstacle to close the distance briefly.
Suddenly something swoops overhead, casting a shadow over the two. "Ah, there ya are. Do ya mind taking this little noise maker while I lose the old mare?" the keshi says to the new darkbolt. Kris kicks and screams as the twisted parody of a pegasus reaches down and snatches her up. "
Certainly..."
Falcata's mouth hangs slightly. No... she couldn't fly! How was she going to get Kris back now? Panic fills every fiber of her body as the keshi trots off, a hacking laugh leaving his mouth as he disappears into the forest.
Post by: Dsarker on January 31, 2012, 01:23:28 am
Despite what Friesden had thought about her when she had dismissed Heiro, she couldn't help but feel her heart move within her at the sight, and ran to her.
"It'll be okay, Charity, it'll be okay. They'll bring them back."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 01:25:44 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 01:35:15 am
Charity pulls her daughter into the hug, "Everything will be okay dear," whispers Charity, not really believing it herself.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 01:36:58 am
***
The darkbolt hovers just above Falcata, a twisted grin on his face. He gives Kris a shake and says, "Oh, what's the matter? This belong to you?" He cackles and begins to fly backward away from Falcata slowly, keeping Kris just out of range of her attempts to leap up and grab her.
"Mom, help! Please! Help ME!"
She fights the urge to shout back that everything would be okay and she was going to be fine. It was going to be a clopping miracle if she got Kris back now, and it took every ounce of her strength to avoid breaking down right there. She tries to concentrate enough to cast a spell, but her mind flutters from one possible course of action to another. What could she do that wouldn't hurt Kris too?
The darkbolt picks up his speed, tightening his grip as Kris begins to buck and kick again, screaming and begging to be released.
"Come on, gotta want it!" he taunts, rising up a bit as Falcata leaps up again. "Come on, old mare, let's see how fast you can go..."
He takes off down a clearing in the trees, moving at least as fast as the keshi. Her heart stops for a moment before thundering in her chest to match her hooves. No... Celestia... Luna... help her...
Post by: Dsarker on January 31, 2012, 01:40:06 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 01:45:48 am
"So, you thought kidnapping was a good idea? Let me show you how I treat those who would hurt foals." Midnights axe flashes through the air, and the injured leg sails off.
"That's one. Too bad your only a keshi, there are only four more for me to remove." The axe flashes again, and again, each stroke removing a limb from the prisoner, until with two last strokes, Heiro slices cleanly through its neck, and splits it in two.
"You should be grateful little brother wasn't in control" Heiro says, "You would have lasted much longer..."
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 01:49:39 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 01:53:44 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 02:03:00 am
Minutes pass. The darkbolt was getting further and further away, rising into the air. She could still see him, but her soul had been crushed minutes ago.
"Mooommmy! Mooommmy!!!!" Kris' cries were getting further and further away. Another minute passes, and she can't even see her anymore.
The darkbolt was gone. Kris was gone. Her chest burned and ached like the day she'd nearly been burned alive by the magma, but she continued on, galloping as fast as she could. Which was now barely even a trot. She gasps and wheezes, trying to catch her breath, feeling a burning in her legs as she forces them to move on.
More minutes pass, and she now heads on at barely a walk, gasping for air. She couldn't hear Kris' cries any more. She was gone. She... was... gone.
Her next step ends with her in a tumbled heap as her stamina finally runs out.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 02:06:43 am
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 02:10:02 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 02:11:23 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 02:19:18 am
Great, now where was he? He looks around and sees the mare who had been chasing him motionless in a clearing a distance away. He looks around and sees more ponies a little further off in the other direction. Maybe another cohort of his?
He flies that way cautiously, a sinister grin forming on his face as he sees a bloody heap of somepony and a keshi standing over it. Well, maybe things were looking up. He could have a little more fun with that mare...
He swoops down and lands just next to Heiro, not noticing Cryptson hidden by brush and branches.
"Hey, you, keshi! Take this little fidgeting bundle of noise and head back to the encampment. There's this rainbow haired mare bawling her eyes out back that way," he points off behind him. "I think I'ma go have a little more fun with her. She tried to kill me. Would you believe it?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 02:23:40 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 02:34:38 am
Kris opens her eyes and through tear clouded vision she recognizes Heiro. She immediately throws her hooves around his neck and exclaims, "Daddy!"
The darkbolt's expression turns to confusion and he raises an eyebrow. He looks over to the corpse next to them and a painful realization hits him. Buck. He reaches for his weapon.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 02:39:42 am
"Khenal!"
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 02:40:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 02:47:35 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 02:50:12 am
Heiro turns on the darkbolt, the warmth he felt at Kris caling him dad morphing into rage. 'Midnight. This one is /mine/.'
He rushes forward, and with a single swing, severs the darkbolt's wings.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 02:53:15 am
***
Kris obeys and turns away from the carnage, covering her eyes and balling up with a whimper.
The darkbolt's eyes snap open and he lets out a startled scream as his wings are separated from his body. The sword drops from his mouth and he instinctively tries to take to the air, leaping up and back but finding nothing to lift him. He tumbles backward among a number of colorful curses and cries of pain, and tries to get to his hooves.
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 02:55:51 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 03:02:39 am
He drops his axe and jumps on the diomedian, Stomping and bucking. He circles around it, delivering crushing blows with his hooves again and again until it looks Like nothing less than a small pile of fur and flesh, smashed so badly that one could hardly recognize that it used to be a pony. With a final kick, his rage starts to subside, he takes a deep breath, retrieves Midnight's axe, then goes and cleans himself in the lake.
He returns to Kris' side, his worry beginning to return as the rage fades. "Hey there little one, daughter. It's okay now, you're safe. Lets get you back to your mother, I'm sure she's really worried about you. Just focus on me okay, don't look around." Heiro brushes Kris' mane as he speaks, trying to calm her.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 03:13:16 am
***
As Khenal lands he can see Falcata lying in the middle of the clearing where she'd collapsed in exhaustion and sorrow. Bitter sobbing can be heard from her as he gets closer. Suddenly, she thrusts her head to the sky and shouts, "Are you happy now!?"
She rights herself and with effort pulls up into a half sitting position, still staring up into the sky. "Was this my punishment!?" she screams into the sky again. "I was sent here to die! Not her!" Her voice begins to crack and more tears begin to stream down her cheeks. "She... she never did anything to anypony... why..." She collapses again, bitter sobbing overtaking any attempts to form words for a moment.
"Why... why did she have be taken from me? She... she was all that I had left... Oh, Luna... why couldn't you have taken me instead!?" She tries to say something, but her voice is lost in more hollow attempts to cry. The tears were all gone... there was only fruitless shuddering from her as her body tries in vain to continue the soul consuming weeping.
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 03:19:56 am
I approach Falcata, tears in my eyes, and place a hoof on her withers.
"Falcata?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 03:24:18 am
...Or not.
No, Sisters no lad, stop...
For Luna's sake lad, stop!
...Oh Sisters... at least use your axe, finish him quickly, for pity's sake!
As Heiro strides away, Starkey touches down lightly next to the bloodied form that may once have been a pony. He reaches out a hoof to nudge the buck, hoping beyond hope that he wasn't too far gone to save... or at least too far to suffer.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 03:25:48 am
"You took my daughter... I'LL TAKE YOUR LIFE!" she shouts, swinging her hammer at the pony that had approached her, throwing all of her remaining strength into a killing blow.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 03:35:50 am
He looks up and sees Starkey standing over the darkbolt. "Dad! Come over here!"
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 03:41:25 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 03:51:21 am
***
The hammer blow catches Khenal on the side of his head. Falcata is exhausted from the chase and clumsy in her rage, but it's still a solid blow. Khenal is sent reeling, the world spinning around him and pain surging through his head as the hammer connects.
Falcata's eyes widen and the hammer drops from her magical grasp as he slumps to the ground. She shudders as the magnitude of what she'd just done settles in her mind. She... she'd just mistaken Khenal for a diomedian... and... and... she'd... she'd killed him!
She immediately collapses next to Khenal and begins sobbing anew.
"Sisters... why? What have I done!?"
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 03:54:27 am
"Ooww... I think you gave me a concussion is what you've done..."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 03:58:35 am
"P... Plea..."
"Be still, lad. The pain will end soon."
"D-Don'... wan-na..."
"I cannot save you. I-I'm sorry, there is nothing I can do."
"Don'... don' go..."
"I'm... not going, lad. I'll be here until... until..."
The buck rasps out his last, and is still. Starkey reaches a hoof up to close his eye, finishing his prayer. Slowly, he rises.
"Dad! Come over here!"
Starkey turns, seeing Heiro standing by Kris. slowly, he strides over to them, his face an emotionless mask.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 04:02:09 am
"Oh, sisters above! Khenal... I'm so sorry! I..." She begins crying again. "I'm so sorry! They... they took Kris! I thought you... I didn't mean to..."
She buries her face in her hooves. She should be helping Khenal, but she had no strength to do anything. "She... she's gone! I... I..." she trails off, her words lost under more failed attempts at producing tears.
((Didn't do anything with Cryptson, KingStrongbeard, so feel free to have him say / do something here.))
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 04:09:33 am
'Well, concussion is better than dead. That hammer was moving...'
"Ugh... Um...Star... Starkey was close, he might... might have... done... thing..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 04:15:58 am
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 04:24:13 am
"Khenal... I'm so, so, sorry...." she pleads, trying to think of what to do. Did he say Starkey was nearby? They needed to get Khenal back to Glitterglen. Fast. And she was too tired to pick him up.
"Oh, no... what do I do... What do I do?" She paces in front of him, her steps uneasy with fatigue. "Captain Starkey!?" she calls out, hoping against reason that he would be able to hear.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 04:25:24 am
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 04:29:12 am
'Sweet Celestia, that hurt more than the hammer did!'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 04:44:11 am
Heiro stands up and follows Starkey, terrified, wondering what he had done.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 04:51:10 am
"Kindly tell me what the clop you're playing at, boy!"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 04:53:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 04:59:48 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:05:33 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 05:13:16 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:21:22 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 05:24:03 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:25:30 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 05:30:00 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:42:34 am
"Do you want to know what happens when your son tries to fight without me? You see these bodies, they are the work of the darkness in our mind. Even I cannot stop it fully at times, if he was alone... if he was alone you would be looking at nothing but red stained grass. There would be little enough left of these two that they could be buried in a handbasket. Distasteful as it is... a fight should be quick, clean. End things with a single stroke... not like this..."
Midnight/Heiro shakes her head, "But that does not matter. I will not let you torment him more. He is lucky enough not to remember what we do when the darkness takes us."
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 05:49:27 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:52:11 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 05:54:31 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 05:57:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 06:03:03 am
"...Begone. I want Heiro. I need to talk to my boy."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 06:06:56 am
When they re-open, Heiro returns to normal, his head dropping and the nervousness returning to his voice. "D-dad... are... are y-you still m-mad at m-me?"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 06:08:50 am
"I'm angry, yes, but... not at you. I'm sorry, I didn't know about... about Midnight."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 06:13:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 06:23:13 am
After a few moments, Starkey gently lets go of Heiro.
"Heiro... whatever happened today - and I'm still not sure what happened... whatever I said... you're still my son, and I love you very much. Remember that."
He spreads his wings and takes off.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 06:34:59 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 12:47:32 pm
Charity's Journal 15th Obsidian, 100
The liaison from the mountain homes along with the caravan has arrived.
I'm sending out the fortress guard to escort them inside.
Then I headed down to the Ducal Guard's barracks and saw Falcata and my
husband sparing with real weapons. It was an amazing display. Their
fight took them all around the room. I didn't realize Crytpson was so
skilled, Falcata just couldn't hit him with her hammer, though she did
surprise him with a kick or a buck at several points, but he just kept
getting his pick around her guard. That is until she tripped into him,
and as their faces collided, Falcata's lips found those of my husband.
The look on his face was priceless, it was clearly an accident, but he
was stunned all the same. Falcata took the opening, and struck him
twice with her fore-hooves, and then tapped him in the face with her
horn, a killing blow had they been really fighting. After that they
ended the sparing for the day.
Charity's Journal 16th Obsidian, 100
Ironya's second son, Itur is a grown pegasan stallion now. He wanted to
join the guard like his brother, but well, the poor colt is renowned
for his clumsiness and has been sickly his whole life, we had to turn
him away. I think he's joining the haulers guild, now. Hope they don't
don't let him carry anything fragile.
In other news the Lyemaker is still sitting in one of the crastpony
shops, next to Forgefire's forge screaming for body parts. I've asked
ol' Hog to butcher a few of the different animals we got running around.
Maybe he'll see something he likes, but we got more bone and leather,
than we know what to do with.
Charity's Journal 17th Obsidian, 100
The caravan from home is being pestered by parasprites. They're running
all to and fro trying to protect their goods. I saw one pegasan trader
fly right up a tree in terror of the little buggers. The Fortress Guard
and the merchant's guards are trying to chase the critters off, but
with mixed success.
Charity's Journal 20th Obsidian, 100
The last of the merchants have made it safety inside, the parasprites
are now all either dead, run off, or trapped in cages.
Charity's Journal 23rd Obsidian, 100
Bebmal just gave birth to her newest foal. A peagsan filly named Fesh
Craftsnatures.
Charity's Journal 28th Obsidian, 101
The lye maker is still screaming for body parts, growing concerned I've
asked Captain Isos to station someone by him at all times until this
passes or he becomes violent, in which case they know what to do.
Charity's Journal 3rd Granite, 101
Ironya had another filly, an earthpony.
Charity's Journal 6th Granite, 101
Bokbon, our broker has been in a drunken stupor for days now, the
merchants are getting ready to leave and we haven't traded yet. I've
had her fired and placed my son Adamant as the new broker. He has
successfully traded for the few things of value that the Rainbows brought.
Charity's Journal 7th Granite, 101
Friesden threw a party in the dinning hall today, but it was cut short
as a pair of Keshi prisoners escaped. They took my son and Falcata's
daughter as hostages and made their way to the surface before we knew
what was happening. When we were informed, Falcata, Heiro, and Cryptson
took off first. From what I've gathered, Falcata took off after one
Keshi and Heiro the other, with Cryptson lagging behind. But what
Cryptson tells me happened next chills me to the bone. When Heiro
caught the one with my son, he hacked it to pieces, slowly and
deliberately, putting off a killing strike just to torture it more.
These things deserve death and nothing more, but ponies do not torture
for revenge, we do not take joy in the slaughter of others, it is not
our way. But what happens next explains that, A darkbolt, carrying
Kris, landed and recognized Heiro as a Keshi, (A Keshi, living along
good ponies in Glitterglen, as if the demons weren't bad enough!) Heiro
took Kris from the Darkbolt and then cut of his wings and stomped him
to near death, then left him to die. Starkey landed and he had Cryptson
who Heiro didn't know was watching take Kris and Adamant home, while he
talked to Heiro.
When Cryptson returned home, with our eldest slung across his back I
panicked I thought for sure he was dead, but fortunately, he only had a
fractured jaw and a slight concussion that Doctor Bubbles is confident
he will recover from. Heiro arrived with Kris shortly there after. I hadn't yet been told
what happened with Heiro so I said nothing when Falcata returned, with an injured but stable Khenal, for their
big happy reunion, but Cryptson didn't look very happy to see them all
together, but he rarely looks all that happy so I didn't say anything
at the time. I'm going to have to talk to Falcata about this. First
thing in the morning.
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 01:05:22 pm
Kris trembles in his hooves as he hugs her. She immediately reciprocates the hug, clinging to Heiro and trying to calm her shaking. She is silent for some time before she manages to squeak, "Yeah... I-I don't like it out here... I want to go home." She tightens her grip slightly and sniffles. "I-Is mom okay? She... she was..." Kris trails off, her voice breaking and the sniffles returning.
***
Falcata was in hysterics. She watches as Khenal collapses back to the ground, cradling his head in his hooves. What had she done!? Was he dying? Was this a stroke? An aneurysm? She'd hit him with all of her might... it was only thanks to her exhaustion that she hadn't shattered his skull... but that didn't mean she hadn't caused terminal injury anyway.
She backs away and the gravity of everything that had just transpired hits her like the hammer she'd just hit Khenal with. She slumps to the ground in front of him, burying her face in her hooves again. What could she do? Could she carry him? She had to try something! Her legs are weak and feeble beneath her as she tries to stand, and she fails to get to her hooves.
The utter soul crushing helplessness she felt as she watched Kris disappear into the woods before her eyes returns. She'd just watched her daughter taken from her to some fate worse than death, and now... now she was going to have to watch as Khenal died in front of her because she was so bucking stupid...
Once again she covers her face with her hooves and hollow dry attempts to cry overcome her. How could she face anypony in Glitterglen after this? Sisters, how could she live with herself?
((That should be fun for Starkey to deal with when he finds them I think.))
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 01:23:26 pm
I carefully open my eyes and uncover one of my ears, only to see Falcata in the depths of despair.
"Fal... Falcata? Um..."
'What are you supposed to say to somepony who just lost their filly?'
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 01:35:09 pm
"Khenal... please... please be okay..." She sniffles and fights for words. "I just lost Kris... I... I can't bear to lose you too..."
Then the image of the darkbolt flying away with Kris returns and she looks away, covering her head with her hooves and stifling tears. "I... I don't know... if-if... I can bear this... at all..."
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 01:49:04 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on January 31, 2012, 01:59:34 pm
Heiro gives her one last hug before standing up and beginning to take her back to the fort.
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 02:36:16 pm
"Khenal? What happened, lad, were you attacked?"
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 02:52:51 pm
"C-Captain... thank the sisters you're here... I... Khenal..." She stammers, motioning at her hammer lying nearby. "Th-they took Kris... I thought he was one of them..." Her breathing hastens to the point of near hyperventilation. "I-I hit him! He-he's hurt... I... I could've killed him..."
She places a hoof to her chest and sits, trying to slow her breathing. Panic is still evident on her face. "She... she's gone... please... captain, you've got to help him... I'm too weak... if he dies too..." The hyperventilation returns as she shuts her eyes and shakes her head wearily. "I... I can't take this... please... Celestia... Luna... this is more than I can bear!" she chokes out between sharp breaths.
***
Kris nods slowly and climbs up onto Heiro's back, clinging to him the entire way. The trembling has slowed, but hasn't left completely.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on January 31, 2012, 03:15:00 pm
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Tom.png
((For those who may have forgotten, he has asked for Tom our mason/engraving Alicorn to become a cook. So even though that picture says something else, within the RP he is a cook now.))
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 03:58:01 pm
"Calm down, Captain. Both of the foals have been found. Kris is with Heiro now. She's safe."
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 04:00:58 pm
"I'm not dying! Uh, I think? Anyway, I told you Starkey'd... uh... do thing! Can we go back to the fort now?"
Post by: Telgin on January 31, 2012, 04:14:18 pm
She forces herself to her hooves and takes an uneasy step toward Khenal. "We need to get back then..." She grabs her hammer with her magic and returns it to its sling, feeling uneasy at the mere sight of it. After a moment of confused examining of Khenal, she tries to help him up and find some way to assist him back to Glitterglen, but she nearly buckles in the attempt to lift him.
Post by: TALLPANZER on January 31, 2012, 04:41:47 pm
Tom stood at the back of the group of migrant Ponies, a plum of gray smoke trailing out from under his fedora. The line moved forward through the gates of Glitterglen as the guard preformed a routine check for contraband while taking down names and professions. Eventually it was Tom's turn. He would be the first to admit that he looked a little suspicious with his long coat covering him up almost completely, but he still never liked to be searched, it always went the same way.
Female Pegasus guard one: "Remove your hat please."
Reluctantly Tom took off his hat revealing his horn, the top most part of which had been cut clean off.
Female Pegasus guard two: "And just how did that happen?"
Tom: "I did it myself, it was stupid, can I have my hat back now?"
As he put his Fedora back on the two Pegasus guards began to pat him down and check his pockets
Female Pegasus guard one: "What are these?"
Tom: "Long land splifs."
*This is a Long land Splif. All Craftsponyship on this Splif is of middling quallity. It consists of finely cut long land grass, finely ground rat weed, wrapped in albino cave rice paper that was dipped in cannabis oil.*
Female Pegasus guard one: "I will have to take these."
Tom: "Yeah, yeah."
Guard number two took this time to look under Toms' coat, she yelped and dropped it back onto his flank. A small black cloud grew over Toms' head as she whispered into the ear of the other guard.
Female Pegasus guard Two: "He hasn't got a cutie mark Jane."
Female Pegasus guard Jane: "This I got to see."
*So Jane lifted the back of Toms' coat and took a good long look at his flank. Of course her eyes drifted south eventually. Jane dropped the coat back into place*
Guard Jane:(with a large lewd grin) "He looks like a full grown colt to me."
Tom: "Can I go in now?"
Female Pegasus guard two: "Just one more thing, can you tell me your last job?"
Tom: "Cook."
*Tom then took his leave of the two Guard Pegasus.*
Female Pegasus guard two: (looking at her clip board) "If I write that down, he'll be drafted. I can't let somepony with no Cutie mark into the milita. I'll just write down Engraver."
Guard Jane: "Whatever. Why do I feel like I have to buy him a drink now?"
Post by: Khenal on January 31, 2012, 11:18:10 pm
"Woah! Balance not working, gravity is!"
Post by: Impending Doom on January 31, 2012, 11:35:35 pm
"Easy there, Captain. I've got him. "
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 12:02:02 am
"Hehe, you guys have trumped gravity! I have great friends to fight even gravity!"
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 12:07:07 am
What was she going to say to everypony? Especially Friesden? Or Khenal when he was lucid enough to understand?
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 12:12:47 am
Before too long, however, Heiro burst back into the room, with Kris on his back.
"Duchess, Heiro's back! And he has Kris!"
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 12:23:31 am
Charity notices Heiro return as Friesden points it out. Her spirits rise slowly. 'They've got Falcata's daughter... where is Adamant? And where is Falcata and Cryptson?' She looks over to Heiro.
"That's fantastic news... but... please... tell me that you found Adamant too?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 12:27:34 am
He looks up at the duchess' words. "Yes Adamant is safe, he was unconscious, so Cryptson took him to the hospital. As for Falcata... I was hoping she would have made it back by now... but I asked dad to find her, and let her know that Kris is safe, so she should be back soon."
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 12:29:25 am
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 12:35:15 am
"Thank you..." She wipes her eyes again and tries to put on a collected face. "I'd best go check up on him." She steps out of the dining hall and heads toward the hospital, a thousand possible ailments crossing through her mind. 'No, he's fine... Heiro would have said something if he was badly hurt...'
***
Kris shivers for a few moments before opening her eyes and realizing that she was actually back inside the fortress and surrounded by ponies that could protect her. She hugs Heiro's neck from her position on his back and says, "Th-thank you daddy..." She continues to stay on his back, huddled up in a knot.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 12:44:55 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 12:45:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 12:46:01 am
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 12:53:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 12:56:18 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 12:57:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 01:00:40 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 01, 2012, 01:04:02 am
"Falcata? I think it would be best if we... didn't mention how Khenal ended up like this. Especially not around Friesden."
a 'squeee!' echoes down the hall towards them.
"...And that would be her. Remember, both of you: Khenal flew into a tree."
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 01:08:50 am
"It's Friesden! We're fiances!"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 01, 2012, 01:27:53 am
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 01:31:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 01:32:12 am
She peels away from the other two as they continue on toward the hospital, and steps into the dining hall, not sure what she would find. Friesden and Heiro were standing a short distance away... and Kris! She was here! Safe like Captain Starkey said! With renewed vigor she all but gallops over and throws her hooves around Kris, fresh tears pouring from her eyes along the already matted fur of her cheeks. "Oh... Kris..."
"Mom!" Kris finally snaps out of her stupor and returns the hug, clinging to her mom and beginning to sob with joy. "I was so scared mom..."
"Me too..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 01:33:37 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 01:37:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 01:42:31 am
She looks up to Heiro, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. "Heiro... I-I could just..."
Buck it, why not? She maintains her hold on the two of them and gives Heiro a long, passionate kiss. "I-I can't thank you enough..." she says eventually as the kiss ends.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 01:45:26 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 01:49:42 am
'Come on now brother, do it, or I will do it for you.'
Heiro lets go of the hug and steps back, trembling with nerves and exitement "F-falcata.. w-w-w-will... will y-y-you m- mar..." He swallows one last time... "Falcatawillyoumarryme?" he blushes heavily and looks at the floor, barely bearing to hope.
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 02:03:12 am
She smiles, nods and throws herself into another embrace with him, whether he wanted it or not. "Yes... yes, I will..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 02:05:05 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 02:07:20 am
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 02:32:11 am
Kris makes a small smile and with her mom and soon to be dad close, she finally feels safe enough to slip from his back onto the floor, shaking slightly as she is forced to stand again. She might have been scared out of her mind just minutes ago, but she was very happy right now. She slips over and hugs both by their forelegs.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 04:47:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 06:57:33 pm
"Captain Starkey took him to the hospital to get looked at..." she trails off, hoping to put it in a way that wouldn't cause Friesden to lose it completely or immediately point the blame to herself. "He's alright... but he... hit his head..." Yeah, against the face of her hammer. She almost felt sick again, now that it was coming back to her.
Maybe Khenal wouldn't remember... why did that make her feel even worse? She hoped he and Friesden would find it in their hearts to forgive her, because she wasn't sure she could forgive herself right now.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 08:02:21 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 08:22:51 pm
The speed her heart was beginning to beat at betrayed how much she was worrying. What if they got there and found out he did have a brain hemorrhage and died... or permanent brain damage... or... or...
Perhaps she should have gone alone to check first... but it was a bit late for that now.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 08:25:43 pm
Friesden starts dragging the three towards the hospital, the smile on her face growing even more, if that were possible.
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 08:33:24 pm
'I'm just glad they were able to fix the vengeance that gravity tried to wreak upon me!'
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 08:37:03 pm
"Khenal, Khenal!" she says as she runs over. "What happened? Falcata said you were hurt!"
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 08:39:59 pm
Kris halts next to her mother, unwilling to avoid touching her. She doesn't even notice Khenal's peculiar expression, lost in thought as she was.
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 08:41:38 pm
"Friesden! Oh, what happened? I flew into a hammer tree! Or was it a tree-hammer? A tree attacked me with a hammer made of solid gravity? Uh..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 08:43:07 pm
"A hammer? A tree attacked you with a hammer? Falcata, what happened?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 01, 2012, 08:46:49 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 08:55:13 pm
Kris notices Adamant in the bed nearby and slowly works up the courage to leave her mother's side. "Um... Lady Charity... Lord Cryptson... is he... is he okay?" she says, her voice wavering slightly as her nerves begin to fray again.
((Will be watching and posting as possible, and will be on the IRC in an hour and a half or so, I think.))
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 08:58:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 09:00:48 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 09:05:35 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 01, 2012, 09:06:03 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 09:06:57 pm
I pause, trying to think through this strange haze, then notice Friesden's mood seem to fall.
"Aw, it's alright, Friesden! Of course Falcata still likes you!"
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 09:08:13 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 09:17:11 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 09:23:27 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 09:29:17 pm
Kris looks at Adamant and feels chills run down her spine. That could have been her. She begins to tremble again as she prepares to answer the duchess' question. "W-we went down to the arena... he-he said it wasn't dangerous when nopony was fighting..." She pauses for a moment. "Th-then the ponies came in and attacked us... he-he tried to stop them..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 09:32:09 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 01, 2012, 09:39:12 pm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"The arena, what were you two doing dow...Oh I see, nevermind that, stupid question. But he tried to stop them?" Charity looks down at Adamant, "You really are your father's son. More guts than brains." Cryptson doesn't seem to hear the remark his wife has made at his expense. But Charity notices him staring over at Heiro and Falcata.
"What are you looking at?"
"Nothing... I'll tell you later." Cryptson looks away trying to avoid looking like he's been looking at anything in particular.
"Cryptic as always dear."
Post by: Khenal on February 01, 2012, 10:47:35 pm
"Oh, wow. I am tired. Running through the jungle and boldly defying gravity have finally caught up with me. I'm gonna sleep, everypony."
I kiss Friesden before giving everypony else a half-lidded smile and laying my head down. Before too long, I'm out like a light.
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 10:50:59 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 11:02:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 11:04:51 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 11:18:57 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 11:21:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 01, 2012, 11:24:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 11:28:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 11:42:37 pm
She lowers her head and her ears droop. "It... it was me..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 11:43:38 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 01, 2012, 11:53:45 pm
She bites her lip for a moment to keep herself together. "I... I could have killed him... I... I just can't say how sorry I am..." She can feel tears welling up, but she manages to blink them back with enormous effort.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 01, 2012, 11:56:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 01, 2012, 11:56:56 pm
"It's....It's okay. I... I understand the pain that comes from the loss of a child... And... you're my friend. I would forgive you anything, anything. Please...Don't try to hide it from me...It's okay....just...just next time...let it be me, not Khenal...please..."
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:03:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 12:06:05 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:15:10 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 12:20:27 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:39:07 am
Kris wanders back over and sits between her mother and adoptive father. "Yeah..." she adds with a small smile. Inside her mind though... everything that had happened that day was weighing heavily upon her. She had some thinking to do, but... the fear she'd felt was beginning to change into something else... something with a purpose. Maybe she should talk to her mother in private later. Or not... maybe not yet...
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 12:41:09 am
"You're right, of course...I'll never be able to thank you enough for what you've done for me, you know..."
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:48:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 12:50:04 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:58:25 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 01:07:14 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:10:05 am
It was peculiar... but the two of them shared a bond unlike anything most ponies could comprehend. They owed each other their lives.
((Scene concluded. Falcata is free to speak with Charity, KingStrongbeard, despite the others continuing on for the next morning. Feel free to set the scene.))
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 01:30:04 am
"Ugh... head hurts..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 01:33:24 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 01:39:37 am
I peek my eyes out from under Friesden's wing before wincing and returning to the gentle darkness to be found there.
'Hammers are not fun...'
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:43:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 01:45:52 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 01:51:35 am
"...Damp and head hurts... Not fair..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 02, 2012, 01:53:23 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:58:09 am
She hops down from the bed she was resting on and trots over to Khenal. "Sorry, Mr. Khenal... I didn't even think about it." Her horn glows a dull gold for a moment, and Khenal immediately feels the pain in his head drain away to a dull tingle. "Did that help? I... can make it stronger."
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 02:00:38 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 02:02:07 am
"Aaahhh... No thanks, Kris. I think stronger might put me out again."
I carefully peek out form under Friesden's wing again. Though the light is again a bit painful, it's at least bearable now. I slowly and carefully try to work my way out from under Friesden without waking her.
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 02:06:05 am
She backs away and hops back up onto the bed before paging through the text again. There was so much to learn about this... did anypony ever learn it all? She flips back to the index. What all was in here anyway? That she could understand anyway.
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 02:07:40 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 02:38:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 02:41:00 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 03:02:17 am
"Fantasy, however comforting..." I pause to give my love a gentle kiss. "...pales to Reality. Heh, I hope. Good morning, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 03:03:35 am
"Mmmmm...a very good morning....I love you, Khenal..."
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 03:08:33 am
Before I can kiss her again, though, another lance of pain courses through my head.
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 04:13:05 am
Post by: Khenal on February 02, 2012, 04:18:06 am
I reach up a hoof and carefully touch the bandages on my head, surprised at how tender it is.
Post by: Dsarker on February 02, 2012, 04:25:01 am
"I...I hope you get better soon..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 09:15:32 am
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 12:40:56 pm
She tucks the book away and rubs her eyes to try and gain some semblance of clarity. After yesterday, she didn't get much sleep last night. So much to think about... and Kris waking several times throughout the night with cries of terror didn't help anything. Today Kris was supposed to spend some more time with Dr. Bubbles learning whatever it was he was teaching her, but she didn't want to go. Falcata couldn't blame her, and in fact was reluctant to even let her out of her sight. Only after Heiro came by and offered to go with her did she settle down enough to go, but even then it was hard for Falcata.
She blows out her breath and tries to forget about it. Kris was safe now, and nothing was going to happen to her as long as Heiro was with her. She steps over to the door and opens it to find Charity standing there. "Oh, hello Lady Charity... can I help you? Would you like to come in?"
Charity's expression looked faintly worried... she wasn't sure she liked what that might mean. But then again, she'd been through nearly the same as herself. If she didn't look somewhat upset, she'd be even more concerned.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 01:24:04 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:27:27 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 01:32:37 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:45:52 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 01:52:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 01:59:33 pm
Wait... did she say something about what Heiro was? Charity didn't know... about that... but maybe she was talking about something else. No need to bring that up.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 02:15:28 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 02:37:05 pm
"I... I see..." she finally manages to say. She looks away and her ears droop. What should she say? What would Heiro think of her telling Charity any of what she saw in his head? How much of that would Charity believe anyway? And would it even help his case? "I... I knew he was a keshi... but..." She sighs and places a hoof against her forehead. "I... just don't know what to think..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 02:42:47 pm
"You KNEW he was a Keshi! You knew we had a Keshi in Guard and you didn't tell me! Why wouldn't you tell me? How long have you known?"
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 02:59:22 pm
"Y-You don't understand! He-he's not like them... and-and I knew i-if word got out th-that he was a dio-diomedian..." she trails off, not really sure what would have happened, now that she thought about it. It wouldn't have been good, that much she knew. But... she probably should have told Charity long before now. In private. "B-But you're right... I-I should have told you months ago..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 03:11:26 pm
1 The Diomedian Civ that has been attacking us.
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 03:36:06 pm
"Y-You're right." She hangs her head and averts her eyes. She couldn't even bear to look Charity in the eyes right now... it really was as if she'd betrayed her. Charity trusted her with guarding her life, and this was how she behaved? "I... I just don't know what I was thinking... but you're right. I-I'm so sorry... I... just..." She pauses as she feels the first hint of crying beginning to surface, and bites her tongue before it becomes obvious.
No. Absolutely. Not. You are not going to cry again, especially not in front of Charity. She was going to have to stop talking to ponies if this kept happening. It was just one thing after another lately...
Finally confident that her words will come out level and free of any choking, she says, "...but... you're right. I-I am worried... about him... about Kris..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 04:23:07 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 04:54:09 pm
No. No, Heiro wasn't like that. She understood him and Midnight well enough to know that would never happen. Or... did she? What was she going to do? She had feelings for him. That much she couldn't deny now. But she wasn't sure she was ready to be engaged yet. But if she told him that, she'd break his heart. And what would that profit anypony? And... why was he in such a hurry to get married anyway? What would she do...?
"He... he brought my child back to me..." she says, staring into the floor ahead of her. "He could have asked for anything and I'd have gladly given it to him... and he asked me to marry him..." She sighs. She thought she was past all of this. A thousand questions buzzed through her head, without an answer in sight. Maybe she wasn't ready for this, after all. "I... don't know... I've... got a lot of thinking to do..."
That Heiro was a keshi meant nothing to her. But everything else... she just couldn't think clearly right now. She shakes her head, and in a low voice mumbles, "I've loved and lost once... maybe that's enough for one lifetime..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 05:15:58 pm
((Meeting a friend for dinner, will be AFK for a couple hours.))
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 05:38:23 pm
As silence settles she again begins to ponder the situation she was in. What was she going to do...? Right now, she just wanted to shut herself in her room, turn out the lights and pretend she wasn't there. If she even bumped into Heiro right now, she wasn't sure what might happen. He'd know something was wrong with her at one glance, and then what would she say?
She couldn't talk to Kris or any of her other friends about this. Kris was nearly a mare... but this wasn't something she should be worried over. Friesden would be crushed to hear that she even had the slightest hints of doubt. And she wasn't sure she wanted to face Khenal right now, even barring the chance Friesden might hear something from him. She'd have to face Heiro eventually... might as well start thinking up what she would have to say when she did. And decide how she truly felt about everything.
But she was beginning to get ahead of herself... Charity hadn't even left yet... for all she knew there was more bad news.
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 02, 2012, 06:18:56 pm
Tom showed up to work in the dinning hall the next morning. When he got there he was told to smooth the floor. Use of his magic allowed Tom to hold three smoothing stones at once, but his heart just wasn't in it so he only got as much work done as the other ponies. At lunch brake Tom sat down with his coworker Fluterlumps the Pegasus in a crash helmet.
Fluterlumps: "Made your own lunch did yah? I just get mine from the stock room, hey is that what I think it is?"
*This is a Qarry Cane Roast: It is made from finely minced quarry bush leaves, finely diced quarry bush leaves, and black cane cave sugar*
Tom: *Sighs* "Yes it's Quarry Cane Roast. They are perfectly legal you know."
Fluterlumps: "But at work, won't that make you all... well you know."
Tom: "Actually I don't. Why, you want some?"
Fluterlumps: *His eyes light up* "Really?"
Tom broke a piece of the roast and hoofed it over to Fluterlumps. The excited Pegasus gulped it down and immediately flew into a wall. Lucky for Tom that this was normal for Fluterlumps and no one noticed. This experience gave Tom an idea, he would make lunches for the ponies he worked with. That would keep him in practice and maybe even raise moral.
*KRRASHTHUMPP!* Fluterlumps: "I CAN'T SEEEE!"
Tom: "Your helmet fell over your eyes again."
Fluterlumps: *lifting his helmet* "Oh! so I did, thanks Tom."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 07:44:56 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 07:57:35 pm
((Will be on the IRC in a few hours, although I'll keep monitoring the thread for a little while.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 08:04:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 08:22:47 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 08:30:43 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 08:48:18 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 08:57:39 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 09:06:30 pm
((AFK for a little while, an hour or so and I'll be back.))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 09:11:38 pm
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 02, 2012, 09:18:27 pm
Tom had spent some time working with the other engravers, and everyday they would meet in the dinning hall for lunch. Some of the rock craftponies had started to join them. A male Unicorn named Noodles had even made a set rock cookware. One large stone pot was sitting on Toms' back as he made his way to the hall today. Suddenly the Pegasus guard he had met on his first day, the named Jane, stood in his way.
Jane: "What's in the pot Tom?"
Tom: "Chilli."
Jane dashed forward and stairs Tom right in the eyes "A likely story!"
Tom sighs and magically lifts the the lid of the pot "Take a look for yourself."
*This is a pot of fine cave chilli. All Craftsponyship is of fine quality. It consists of finely stewed albino cave beans, well diced tomato, finely chopped plumphelmet, and well roasted cave onions.*
Jane looked in the pot "Is this special chilli?"
Tom: "Have some if you're not sure."
Gobble,slurp,chomp,slurp,scarf,swallow,Mmmmm! As Jane was chowing down, Noodles and Flutterlumps entered the seen.
Noodles: "Something wrong Tom?"
Jane quickly lifts her head from the pot with a fare bit of Chilli sauce still on her face. Seeing the too new arrivals she wipes her chin with a hoof and stands at attention.
Jane: "Wellthatwillbeallhaveagoodday!"
Then bolted out the door so fast it left Flutterlumps spinning around like a top. The poor Pegasus finally came to a stop upside down in the dinning hall and when his eyes stopped rolling around in his head his helmet fell down again.
Flutterlumps: "Tom! Noodles! What happened!"
Tom: "Jane happened."
Noodles and Tom helped Flutterlumps back to his hooves and to a table. Then they all had Chilli.
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 11:23:13 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 02, 2012, 11:45:49 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 02, 2012, 11:54:59 pm
She ponders a moment. "I asked her to start thinking about alternatives, but I don't know if she's thought up anything else. I'm sure she'd be willing to help out with the stock keeping if she can't think of anything else. She's pretty smart, although she hasn't exactly had a lot of practice with math."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 12:15:33 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 12:25:40 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 12:30:16 am
Kris smiles nervously in return and takes a step inside, only now confident enough to leave Heiro's side. She listens to what Charity says and her face brightens a bit. "Oh? I'm glad to hear he's going to be okay. I was really worried about him..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 12:32:53 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 12:39:41 am
Charity was sure of herself in how she handled that. 'Yes, best not to make him think of it as a demotion or a punishment, just a transfer. A new job, with new different responsibilities.'
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 12:49:13 am
'There's something more going on here bro... I don't think this is a request...'
Heiro looks thoughtful as he speaks with Midnight, then he looks back at Charity. "Well, it's not the group I was hoping to join, but the chance to serve with dad might be nice. U-umm... but I'm curious... did I do something wrong? I though I was assisting in the guard... nevermind, I'm sure you have your reasons." He thinks some more, trying to figure out what he had done.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 12:54:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 12:58:32 am
Falcata's eyes snap open and she makes a startled sputtering noise. Did she just hear that right? Surely she didn't. "Wh-wh-what?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 01:00:36 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 01:10:00 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 01:18:59 am
As Charity speaks up, she turns back to look at her. "Yes, my lady, I'm sure. I felt so helpless... I was helpless. I don't want that to happen to anypony ever again." She smiles a bit. "And... there's no room for me in the hospital... but... I do know how to do some healing magic. I think... maybe... maybe some of those ponies might have come back if there had been somepony there to help them."
Falcata shakes her head, her jaw trembling. "N-no... no, no, no... Kris... you can't do this..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 01:28:29 am
'Well Charity did want us in the militia right bro? What better way to protect her'
'Of course! Thanks Midnight'
He looks up at Charity, a determined look on his face. "I would like to make a request Dutchess, if I may. I would like to be placed in my daughters squad, she'll need someone to teach her the basics."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 01:31:21 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 01:42:59 am
Falcata continues to shake her head. "Kris... Kris... if something happens to you... when I thought you were gone... I..." She steps over and hugs her daughter. "I... can't take that..."
Kris nuzzles her from the hug and says, "I know... I worry all the time about you too... but this is what I want to do."
Falcata sighs and holds her for some time. She eventually looks up to Heiro, thinking that at least he would be able to watch out for her. And Captain Starkey was an excellent commander... if anypony could watch out for her, it was the two of them. "O-Okay..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 01:44:59 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 01:49:35 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 01:50:00 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 01:55:29 am
Falcata gives her a squeeze before letting go and backing away. What if Kris did get hurt... what if she got killed? But... what if she did save ponies? She places a hoof to her forehead and sits. Maybe she should talk to Captain Starkey about this... maybe he'd be able to ease her nerves. Or talk some sense into her daughter...
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 03, 2012, 02:09:52 am
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 02:16:17 am
Falcata gives Heiro a tired expression and offers for him to sit next to her. "I... didn't see that coming... I'm not sure what to think about this..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 02:19:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 02:23:44 am
"So, my love, what do you want to do now?" she asks, still smiling happily.
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 02:29:00 am
"I think so... yes." She fights to keep her expression neutral. "Lord Cryptson saw what happened to the diomedians you ran into. He told her about it... I think she's afraid to keep you in the guard now."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 02:31:03 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 02:33:57 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 02:37:53 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 02:42:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 02:47:24 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 02:52:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 02:54:59 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 02:59:47 am
Smiling the entire time, I lead us out of the hospital and to Starkey's chambers, doing my best to hide the occasional head pain.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:04:01 am
"N-No... s-stop..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 03:05:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:07:32 am
"A-Ahhaha... s-stop... ahhI... c-cannae breathahaaaa..."
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:08:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 03:08:38 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:13:10 am
"Oh, ah... hello you two. How aye you? Feeling better, Khenal?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 03:14:37 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:15:41 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:22:05 am
"Aaaah-hahaha!, N-No... O-Okay, Ihaha give upaaahaaa!"
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 03:24:21 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:32:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 03:33:48 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:34:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:38:06 am
Otik leads Friesden back into the room.
"R-Right then..."
Starkey accepts the hoof, still shaking with little fits of laughter.
"So... what did you want to talk about? the Elements?"
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:41:50 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:43:16 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:47:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:50:08 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 03:55:48 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 03:58:18 am
Post by: Khenal on February 03, 2012, 04:00:55 am
"I think you might be right. Loyalty... it'd never kill a friend..."
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 12:00:45 pm
"What? Wh-... I... I would never hurt one of the ponies here. They attacked Kris! T-they attacked Adamant... d-did I do something wrong?"
"No... I know you wouldn't hurt anypony here. But..." She trails off and looks to the door that Charity and Kris just disappeared through. "...she doesn't understand what happened. She's just doing what she thinks is best for everypony. There are over a hundred ponies here that she's responsible for."
Falcata glances back to him. "I didn't tell her about Midnight. I'm not sure that she would understand... I fear what she might do if she did find out." A knot returns to her stomach as she thinks about it. Keeping things from Charity already, after she just gave her her word that she wouldn't. But this... she couldn't tell Charity this. Not right now at least.
She opens her mouth to continue, but words leave her. What would she say to him next? She just didn't know...
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 02:14:21 pm
'If she finds out we'll deal with it then. I can understand her concern... But I would think she would talk with us about it.'
Heiro looks over at Falcata, it was obvious there was more on her mind... and if Charity had been here... 'No, I can't think like that, stay positive.'
"You're probably right. If she found out about big sis... that could end badly. Does... does she know I'm a keshi?"
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 02:42:44 pm
"I'm... not entirely sure how Lady Charity feels about it..." she adds, mostly truthfully. Charity clearly wasn't happy about it, but she didn't seem to distrust Heiro enough to actually throw him in the caverns. "But I honestly think Kris may owe her life to the fact that you are a keshi. If the darkbolt didn't recognize you as one..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 04:48:48 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 05:56:58 pm
Here comes the hard part... what should she say now? What did she want to say? She was a bit worried about... his behavior... but she didn't want to upset or offend him. And she was worried they were taking things far too fast. Maybe that was the best way to start? She draws in a deep breath and looks over to him.
"Heiro... there is something else I wanted to talk with you about... about... us..."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 06:00:41 pm
"W-what... what do you want to... talk about."
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 06:30:54 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 06:39:11 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 07:36:57 pm
She looks down, then back up to him. "Lady Charity was just worried about Kris and me. She... she doesn't understand... After what Lord Cryptson told her... she was afraid you might... hurt one of us." She looks him in the eyes and adds, "But I know you'd never do that." Yet again... how sure could she be? A frightened or angry pony could do a lot of things they never normally would.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 08:02:27 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 08:08:40 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 08:18:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 08:38:22 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 08:49:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 09:12:13 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 09:27:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 09:58:52 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 10:15:44 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 10:17:51 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 10:20:35 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 10:30:37 pm
But... it didn't really matter. She genuinely felt happier around him. This was all still a bit sudden for her, but perhaps the wedding wouldn't be any time soon. It would have to come after Friesden and Khenal's wedding at least. By then, she was sure that if there was an insurmountable problem between them, it would have manifested.
Right now though, she just wanted to be happy. She didn't want to think of anything like that.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 11:32:27 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 11:35:52 pm
"Uhm... wow... I guess..." she says.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 11:38:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 11:41:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 03, 2012, 11:45:17 pm
"Oh, we were jus'... talkin'."
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 11:50:11 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 11:53:37 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 03, 2012, 11:55:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 03, 2012, 11:56:49 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 03, 2012, 11:58:59 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 04, 2012, 12:00:41 am
"...Fri? Are ye alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 04, 2012, 12:05:28 am
She trails off again.
Post by: Telgin on February 04, 2012, 12:27:24 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 04, 2012, 04:38:49 am
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 04, 2012, 04:56:32 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 05, 2012, 12:11:53 pm
Heiro and Falcata arrive at the small quarters shared by the captain and lieutenant, finding the door shut.
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 05, 2012, 04:29:08 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 05, 2012, 07:40:40 pm
"Ooh, hello Heiro! An' miss Falcata too! How are ye both?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 05, 2012, 07:52:17 pm
"Brother! Falcata!"
Post by: Telgin on February 05, 2012, 07:54:04 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 05, 2012, 07:54:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 05, 2012, 07:56:18 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 02:56:34 am
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 03:02:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 06, 2012, 03:09:27 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 03:16:25 am
"I c'n see that. Yer both sure about this?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 04:23:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 06, 2012, 04:26:03 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 04:30:35 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 06, 2012, 04:36:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 04:48:21 am
Heiro could probably use a little more time to digest it all too, whether he believed it or not. He was still young at heart, probably used to rushing into things without thinking them through completely. This could still be a crush from him... she didn't want to believe that, but what if it was? Friesden was the one to urge him to ask, she'd heard her encouragement.
She lets out the faintest of a sigh. She felt guilty just thinking all of this.
Post by: Dsarker on February 06, 2012, 04:50:53 am
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 04:58:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 06, 2012, 05:00:36 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 05:14:39 am
"That sounds wonderful, Fri. Why dun' you an' Heiro go an' tell yer dad th' news?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 05:14:53 am
Normally she'd be happy to do such a thing though. Friesden and Khenal were good friends, and it would save effort to do it together.
"That sounds wonderful!," she says, managing to keep her voice genuine sounding with some effort.
Post by: Dsarker on February 06, 2012, 05:20:11 am
Friesden begins dragging the two behind her.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 05:22:04 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 06, 2012, 05:23:37 am
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 05:25:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 05:28:14 am
"There's no need f'r that, hun. We're both out o' uniform."
She leads Falcata into the room.
"Now, I noticed ye seemed... a bit vexed about things. Would ye like t'talk about it?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 05:37:35 am
As she leads Falcata into the private room and asks the question, Falcata feels her pulse double. She really wanted to say something... and she thought she could trust Otik... but... what if Friesden or Heiro caught wind of this?
"Vexed? N-no... it's just..." she looks away. Great, now she couldn't avoid spilling it. Hopefully Otik would be understanding...
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 05:47:40 am
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 05:51:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 05:56:24 am
Otik sits beside her.
"So, ye feel like Heiro's takin' things a bit too fast. Have ye told him so?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 06:04:42 am
She hangs her head slightly and looks vaguely in Otik's direction. "That's pretty terrible, isn't it? I'm going to be married to him, and I don't even have the guts to tell him I'm afraid to do it so soon."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 06:23:25 am
Otik again rests her hoof on Falcata's shoulders, and squeezes lightly.
"Tell ye wot. Maybe it would be better if I had a lit'l talk with him first?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 06:27:13 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 06, 2012, 06:36:47 am
"...T'tell ye th' truth, I think me an' Starkey could use a lit'l time to adjust as well. Both o' our eldest married so close t'gether? An' our first grandfilly?"
Post by: Telgin on February 06, 2012, 06:43:03 am
She smiles again. "But, one thing at a time, I think."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 12:17:19 am
"Oh, hello you two. What's got you all excited?"
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 12:19:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 12:20:23 am
Post by: Khenal on February 08, 2012, 12:23:21 am
"Congratulations!"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 12:36:30 am
Starkey seems a bit stunned.
"Heiro... and Falcata. That means that... Kris is..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 12:38:00 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 12:39:23 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 12:40:16 am
A huge smile spreads across Starkey's muzzle.
"I have a grandfilly!"
Post by: Khenal on February 08, 2012, 12:41:12 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 12:42:33 am
"This is going to be the best ever! Isn't it, Khenal?!"
Post by: Khenal on February 08, 2012, 01:34:35 am
"I think so, yes."
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 02:27:20 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 03:22:43 am
Some time later, Otik manages to pry Heiro from the clutches of his father and sister. She leads him back to her quarters.
"Come sit with me, hun. We havenae talked in a while."
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 03:25:17 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 03:49:09 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 03:50:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 03:53:15 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 03:56:31 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 04:00:35 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 04:19:33 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 04:27:04 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 04:28:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 04:48:51 am
"What? What? But? But...But...What? Falcata...What?!"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 05:06:48 am
" Oh, why hello there Friesden. I wos wonderin' when ye'd decide to... drop in."
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 05:12:06 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 05:15:03 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 05:16:23 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 05:18:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 05:21:51 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 05:23:17 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 05:28:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 05:29:20 am
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 02:34:13 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 03:38:27 pm
As Heiro speaks again, the same idea flashes into her mind. "A triple wedding? Mum, can we? Please please please please?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 10:38:30 pm
"Hmm... Tha' does sound like fun... but yer dad was really lookin' forward t'walkin' ye down th' aisle..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 10:42:52 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 08, 2012, 10:45:29 pm
"It's okay. We'll figure somethin' out. It'll be wonderful, I know it will."
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 10:46:48 pm
Post by: JaxtalMK2 on February 08, 2012, 10:49:34 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 08, 2012, 11:18:20 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 12:06:09 am
----------------------------------------------------------------
From the desk of of the Duchess
Dear Friesden/Khenal/Starkey/Otik/Isos
I, Charity Conventtulip, Duchess of the Failed Jungles, Mayor of Glitterglen, official record keeper of Glitterglen, and co-head of the Mason's Guild of Glitterglen, invite you to join me for a special lunch at my private dinning chambers (directions enclosed) at noon-time today. This is invite only, please do not bring a guest. This meeting is of utmost import and you are to ignore any conflicting orders, and speak of this meeting to nopony. Please burn this letter after reading.
Your Friend,
Charity Conventtulip, Duchess of the Failed Jungles, ect.
---------------------------------------------------------------
At a quarter to noon, Charity and her husband sit in their dinning room a feast laid out before them, as they await the arrival of their friends.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 12:30:40 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 12:38:09 am
On the table is laid out a wonderful feast featuring Diomedian sausages, and roasts, glazed forgotten beast eye, along with some of the last of the prepared zebra meat in all of the fort, along with a few golden apple and tallow based desserts.
"Please make yourselves comfy while we wait for the others."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 12:50:10 am
"Thank you, ma'am. This is quite generous of you. Though, may I inquire as to the occasion?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 12:53:20 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 12:54:44 am
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 12:58:30 am
At precisely the time indicated on the letter, Captain of the Guard Isos enters and salutes those present and takes her seat.
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 01:00:07 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 01:03:11 am
Charity helps herself to a heaping plateful of food and attempts to make small talk with the gathered individuals.
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 01:07:13 am
My horn glows softly as I levitate a few desserts to my plate.
"Friesden, would you like any?"
Captain Isos takes a slice of the Forgotten Beast eye and quietly begins to eat, answering any questions directed at her with as few words as would be polite.
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 01:08:42 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 01:54:16 am
"Again, I'd like to thank you for this lovely meal, Miss Charity, but from the tone of your letter, you didn't just call us all here to have a nice chat over dinner."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 02:02:40 am
"No, that is true Starkey, I have something that I feel all of you need to know. Crytpson discovered something disturbing during the foalnapping of Kris of and Adamant. I'll let him tell you the rest."
Lord Cryptson stands, never being one much for words, dives straight into the point of the matter, "I, and Lady Charity, believe that Heiro, Captain Falcata's fiance, is in fact, a Keshi merely pretending to be one of our own."
He pauses at this point clearly expecting his audience to be shocked by this news.
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 02:05:05 am
I just kinda scuff a hoof and fail to meet Charity's eye.
"Um... we never told you that?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 02:10:02 am
"We never told anypony that, hun."
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 04:03:29 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 04:10:23 am
Starkey leans over, gently taking Otik's hoof in his own.
"I heard there was going to be a triple wedding. Isn't that right, hun?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 04:14:50 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 11:17:15 am
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 01:06:31 pm
"Um, I thought you knew, Charity. We found out after he took that dagger in the liver when we were trying to find Lilac."
Captain Isos simply shakes her head no at Charity's furious question.
"No, Dutchess, I was not aware of this."
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 02:36:07 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 09, 2012, 03:52:47 pm
"The truth is, strange as it may sound, he only found out not too long ago. His whole life, Heiro has believed himself to be an ordinary earth pony."
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 03:54:06 pm
"Whatever you think is best."
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 03:57:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 03:59:55 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 05:11:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 05:18:26 pm
As Friesden leans in to kiss Khenal again, Charity's question interrupts, and she pauses, turns to Charity, and speaks once more.
"He had a false memory. I don't know anything more than that."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 05:29:57 pm
'if his mind is being tampered with, magically, he could be being used by the enemy without him even knowing it. That's easily within the capabilities of the Tentacle or Dark Royal Diomedians.'
"A false memory? Some sort of, magic tampering with his mind? Khenal, what happened?"
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 05:33:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 05:41:12 pm
Friesden turns back once more to Khenal, intending to finally close that last bit of distance.
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 06:01:03 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 07:14:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 07:30:24 pm
"Um? Oh, the trauma. I don't know exactly what happened, but it looks like his home village was utterly destroyed before his eyes. I think that's why he gets a bit, um... protective of his family. He can't bear to see it happen again."
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 07:32:21 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 08:59:05 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 09:02:35 pm
Friesden turns back to Khenal and continues what had been interrupted.
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 09:15:51 pm
"Uh..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 09:17:47 pm
"He's my brother. You're my friend. Can't you be happy for me?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 09:24:29 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 09, 2012, 09:27:12 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 09:31:56 pm
Charity waits for Friesden to leave, "Now that that's out of the way," she turns to Captain Isos, "Isos, what do you think of all this?"
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 09:52:03 pm
I sigh and slump in my seat, not really encouraged by my internal pep-talk.
Captain Isos thinks for a moment before answering the Duchess.
"It's certainly unexpected, Lady Charity, but I'm unsure what you really mean. Heiro has occasional minor insubordination issues, but nothing requiring any action."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 10:00:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 10:03:35 pm
"Yes, the Diomedians have done us all wrong in various ways, but what, exactly, has Heiro done to wrong anypony of Glitterglen?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 09, 2012, 10:15:12 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 09, 2012, 10:23:51 pm
"Same as any citizen of Glitterglen, Duchess. The reason for his case may be different in your eyes, but as long as he's treated the same in the law, I see no reason to argue."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 10, 2012, 01:47:47 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 10, 2012, 02:14:47 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 10, 2012, 03:05:43 pm
Falcata walks about in the center of the arena, slowly circling a cage containing a pony. But not just any pony. Somehow, this was the thief that had tried to take her daughter from her. Why the foalish twisted monster had decided to wander back to Glitterglen where he was recaptured, she didn't know. Nor did she care.
She'd come to the arena to clear her mind for a bit. After speaking with Otik about the upcoming wedding with Heiro, she felt a bit relieved and more nervous at the same time. She would have more time to come to terms with her feelings now, but she couldn't shake the fear that she had upset or hurt Heiro by trying to put it off. They had not spoken much since the talk with Otik. She felt so guilty about all of it.
Which was why she was here. Meditating like Khenal had taught her did a lot for her nerves and mind, but sometimes she just needed some physical release. The arena was enormous, much larger than the barracks she normally trained in and usually devoid of anypony that might get hurt. She could swing her weapon around in here all day with abandon and not risk hurting anypony. She almost always felt a lot better after getting a nice workout in such a combat drill.
But today was different. Today she found out he was here. Him. The one. That foal fiddling scum sucker. Heiro might have killed the other one, but this one was hers. She was going to show him what she thought about him trying to take her child away from her. She was going to send him back to his misbegotten maker, and maybe not in one piece.
The diomedian eyes her nervously as she circles his cage. "What're ya gonna do? I know I'm good lookin' and all, but ya've been starin' at me forever."
Post by: Dsarker on February 10, 2012, 03:38:28 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 10, 2012, 04:14:51 pm
The diomedian's eyes snap open and he backs away from her. "H-hey, hang on there a second. Don't you 'more civilized' ponies have rules against killing defenseless prisoners?"
She shrugs. "I don't care."
She opens the cage, and the prisoner backs up against the far wall. "L-look, you got your kid back! Let's not be hasty here!" Falcata telekinetically grabs him by the neck and drags him out of the cage. She wasn't in the mood to talk, and he wasn't going to weasel his way out of this. He'd nearly taken her daughter from her. She was going to take his life. He and every one like him deserved no less. "Wait! Come on, let's be reasonable! I wasn't gonna kill her!"
Falcata says nothing. A scowl forms on her face as she draws her weapon.
Post by: Dsarker on February 10, 2012, 04:36:31 pm
Friesden stood up, and prepared to fly down to Falcata. With that little voice that reminds you of all the petty little details in times like this, she noted that she was still in her hospital gear.
Post by: Telgin on February 10, 2012, 04:54:07 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 10, 2012, 04:54:36 pm
"Setting aside the fact that he's my son... diomedians and ponies have lived peacefully together before. Still do, by the thousands. Why is it so hard to believe that one single Keshi can do the same?"
Charity gives Starkey a flat look. "You speak of the Rainbow Coalition? That is not any definition of peace I would accept. Don't fall for their propaganda Commander. Their lands are not as loving or as tolerant as they would like you to believe. Just ask Amberly Vail, she's seen it her self. It's only a matter of time before the infighting from their different clans tears them apart, and if they don't crumble from within, eventually the Principality will crush them. Praise the Sisters. No, while I don't doubt Heiro means no harm, if we grow complacent with his kind we might suffer the same fate, and I won't let that happen as long as I draw breath."
Post by: DVNO on February 10, 2012, 06:12:35 pm
Quote
Well hell, It’s about damn time.
- Tychus Findlay, Starcraft 2
Prepare yourselves, Heroes. A storm is coming.
Previously...
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The Failed Jungles is a dense abhorrent little bog that simply states, yes there is a mother nature, and she hates you with a passion. If you don’t die from exhaustion marching through the rancid marshy soup constantly sucking at your hooves, don’t worry, the ravenous beasts will rend you limb from limb at a moments hesitation. Two ponies make a journey through the nigh-impenetrable jungle canopy.
“Just admit it; we’re lost, aren't we?” The nervous tangerine unicorn insisted. he every right to be nervous. the wilds were no place for a civilized banker such as himself and he’s put his life in the hands of a ranger he barley knows whose, so far been a little...eccentric.
“I ‘ma tell ya the same thing I told ya ten minutes ago, This the most direct way to Tailentranced. not, safeist, mind you, but tha most direct.” The olive earthpony assured him, slashing away at underbrush with her machete.
“I just - see? that’s the exact same rock! we’ve been going in circles! please, can we go back on the road?”
“Hah, the way you’re dressed? If we took the roads the bandits an’ zebra would jump ya be’fore you could say ‘Blueblood’, pardner.”
“Wait, Zebra? the Harmony loving, tree hugging Zebra. that’s not very likely. hold up.” the unicorn leans against a mango tree to catch his breath. the earthpony sighed, took off her texas ten gallon and combed through her neon red hair.
“Right, another small break.” she groans, unslinging her backpack.
she takes out a bowl, fills it with some water from her canteen and whistles for her companion.
a motley German Shepard gleefully bounds through the wild ferns and laps up the water greedily. his dog tag has “Roughneck” inscribed on it.
“nah, not tha’ sweet passive Zebra you know; their more aggressive cousins, the Silvan Zebra. while most zebra simply frown on cutting down trees, the Silvan consider any civilization that’s ever cut down a tree an enemy. they won’t think twice about killing you because they think they’re saving the trees you’re go’in ta cut down, an’ the trees your foals ar’ gonna cut down, an’ trees your foal’s foals ar’ going ta’ cut down an’ so on.”
“Well I've never heard of these ‘Silvans’. where a their settlements? are they near here?”
“I can’t tell ya, they build their settlements on the backs of Ents. you know, trees tha’ tend move. they could be anywhere.”
the banker laughed. "Horseshit!, total horseshit. look, you seem like a nice mare. I owe you my life for saving me when my caravan got hit back there, but it's obvious now you're lost AND delusional. let's just... why are you looking at me like that?" he asked cautiously.
every muscle in the earthpony's body was tense, eyes fixated intensely. she slowly reaches for her crossbow.
"Okay, if I offended you, I'm sorry. terribly sorry. let's put the crossbow down, huh?" he asked, a fearful tenor in his voice.
"Don't...move." she hissed.
"GrrrrWOWrrll"
A Panther lay hunched in the tall grass, a mere four feet behind the banker. completely concealed, except for it's primal, calculating beady eyes. the Panther stared down the earthpony and she stared right back at it.
"If ya want to survive this , get behind me." Willow Darkmane stated calmly.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 10, 2012, 07:03:02 pm
Starkey pauses, thinking for a moment.
"Ah... that last part came out a bit wrong..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 10, 2012, 07:37:30 pm
Even Cryptson's usually stoic expression, is shaken as he is obviously surprised by this revelation.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 10, 2012, 07:44:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 10, 2012, 11:53:41 pm
Then Falcata, with a ferocious look on her face, raised her hammer. Nononononothiswouldn'thappenFalcataisanicepony repeated over and over again through Friesden's mind as she dove down to intercept the strike.
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:04:47 am
Falcata says nothing and draws her hammer back. With a hateful glare she brings the weapon around to strike him on the temple. From her peripheral vision, something flashes past her, and her hammer collides with something too close to have been its original target. There is a blinding flash and whatever she struck was sent flying away.
She takes a moment to see that he diomedian was still trembling with fear and unharmed, and with trepidation she turns her head to see what was unmistakably Friesden lying in a heap a distance away. Her heart stops and her eyes slowly widen as the truth settles. "Friesden!!" she screams in absolute horror and shock.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:07:32 am
"F...F...Fal....Falcata..." she gasps out between coughs.
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:14:31 am
She takes an uneasy step toward her, horrified at what she would find. Her legs feel unsteady beneath her as she continues to watch Friesden struggle to move and speak. "F-F-F-F-Friesden?"
Her heart suddenly starts pumping again and quickens to a rapid pace. Her breathing picks up into hyperventillation as she searches her mind for what to do. What should she do? What could she do? Friesden was going to die and it was her fault! Everypony was going to hate her. She hated herself! She had just promised the mare she'd never harm her... and she'd killed her!
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:20:56 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:25:14 am
As Friesden stands and speaks, Falcata finds the world suddenly heavy and confusing. She slumps to the ground with a sigh.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:32:27 am
Friesden pants, then moves as quickly as she can to Falcata's side. She...She was okay. Just unconscious.
Just...Just got to help get her to hospital. But...She couldn't carry her. Not alone.
She turned to the diomedian. He might not like her...but maybe. Cha-The duchess might free him.
"Excuse me, sir? C-can you help me get her to the hospital? If you help, the duchess might let you go."
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:35:41 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:36:39 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:38:29 am
"Uh... sure... get me outta these chains and I'll help..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:40:56 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:44:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:46:09 am
Friesden begins to unchain the diomedian. "Where do you come from?"
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:49:59 am
"Uh... a settlement deep in the jungles... Ponymurdered..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 12:53:16 am
Friesden finishes unchaining the Diomedian, and slings Falcata half on the diomedian, half on her.
"Let's go!"
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 12:56:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 01:01:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 01:09:11 am
They were close to the exit... time to ditch the chatterbox and hope for the best. He spots a pony walking near the doorway and his enthusiasm drains. This was going to be tough... better follow her for a while more. And hope somepony with an axe didn't take his head off while he did.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 01:11:21 am
Inside, Friesden's heart was lifting. Maybe she could make somepony happy today, at least.
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 01:18:16 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 01:20:15 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 01:25:53 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 01:33:50 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 01:40:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 01:47:09 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 01:52:50 am
Falcata stirs as she is placed on the bed. What just happened? She looks over and blinks the fog from her eyes to see she was in the hospital with Friesden and the prisoner. What?!
She tries to stand but lands awkwardly on the ground as her legs fumble beneath her. "Fr-Friesden... get back!" She tries to move to place herself between the two.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 02:04:00 am
"Don't worry, Falcata! Mikhail here is a nice pony! He helped me carry you up here. He won't harm you, or me, will you, Mikhail? And Ch-The duchess will let him free for helping you, right?"
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 02:11:32 am
Falcata shakes her head, and her eyes snap open. Clop! She had to catch him, he might hurt somepony or escape! She stumbles a few steps before gaining her footing and taking off after the thief.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 02:18:04 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 02:26:51 am
Falcata charges after him, overtaking Friesden and galloping as fast as she could in pursuit. Where was her weapon? Was it still in the arena? Wonderful... how was she going to stop him now? And what if she didn't? He didn't have a foal with him this time, but Lady Charity would be far worse than just displeased...
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 02:30:24 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 02:47:58 am
Falcata continues to pursue him as fast as she could, but she knew it was a doomed attempt. He'd outrun her before. But what could she do? Better start making up excuses on how the thief got out... which she was going to have to do anyway since three dozen ponies had surely seen it happen already.
The thief looks back, a grin plastered on his face. Hey! This was working! He'd get away and make it back home by-
His thoughts were rudely broken by metal bars abruptly appearing around him. He slams into the nearest wall of the new cage nose first, swearing colorfully and rebounding back into the cage. "You have got to be bucking kidding me..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 02:54:47 am
"Falcata!"
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:00:42 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:02:01 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:07:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:20:20 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:28:15 am
The thief stands and wipes more blood from his nose and utters a low curse. "Actually the bit about my wife is true..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:29:41 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:37:39 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:40:59 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:45:47 am
The thief makes a cheesey grin at her.
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:47:30 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 03:50:52 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 03:52:13 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 04:01:36 am
She snaps her head back to Friesden and immediately snatches her up in a hug. "Friesden! I just realized! You're okay!"
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 04:02:34 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 04:05:37 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 04:08:37 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 04:13:11 am
She steps over to her hammer and grabs it with her magic, noticing another piece of metal lying on the ground next to it. After returning her hammer to its sling, she grabs it up, recognizing it as a scalpel. There was something engraved on it... "Kindness." Like her hammer... but a different word...
"Friesden... is this yours?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 04:16:54 am
Post by: Telgin on February 11, 2012, 04:23:18 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 11, 2012, 04:25:05 am
The two ponies made their way to Charity's personal dining room.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 12, 2012, 04:46:20 pm
"LaceAbbey, born and raised. I never set hoof in the Principality until I was nearly twenty."
((Thank you for the edit Doom, I think I can work with that a bit easier.))
"So you are telling me that Inquisitor Vail was wrong about Rainbows? And if you are from the Coalition and they are as good as they say, then why leave them for the Principality? No Commander I think Vail was right, things may have seemed peaceful to you as a foal, but it is their leaders that I speak of, the dirty politics and corruptions and backstabbing for power that is rife in that land, it is only a matter time before they tear themselves apart as the differing groups fight for scraps of power in the shadows. Diomedians and Ponies can not truly coexist peacefully for long, within one group, we are too different."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 05:08:59 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 05:11:07 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 12, 2012, 05:14:50 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 05:26:00 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 05:28:53 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 12, 2012, 05:42:28 pm
Charity's mind is a flood of emotions shock, fear, rage, and disgust, mingle in her mind. She is quiet for a number of seconds before she speaks once more.
"Get out. ALL OF YOU. Get out. Leave me. That is an order."
Charity turns her back on the gathered ponies, waiting for them to leave and starring at the wall behind her, the image depicts the founding of Glitterglen in superb detail, all of the starting seven are clearly recognizable doing their own work. As she tries to remain rigid and not show how weak and powerless she truly feels right now, but try as she might she can't help but let a single pair of tears escape her eyes.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 05:51:37 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 12, 2012, 06:07:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 08:28:14 pm
"Charity?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 12, 2012, 08:38:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 08:44:20 pm
"I hope... *sigh* Take care, Charity."
Sighing again, I walk out.
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 08:50:35 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 08:52:39 pm
"Friesden? Oh Sisters Friesden, I'm so sorry! Are you alright?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:00:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:02:29 pm
"Friesden! Are you alright?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 09:03:03 pm
"Whoa, there! Oh hun, I clobbered you good, didn't I? I'm so, so sorry..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:04:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:07:19 pm
"Friesden? How hard did that door hit you?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 09:13:10 pm
"C'mon Fri, let's get ye down t'th' hospital. Doc Bubbles c'n tell us wot's wrong."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:15:00 pm
"There's nothing wrong with me, mum...wait. Mum, Dad, and Khenal? Yippee!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 12, 2012, 09:16:50 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:24:24 pm
"Um, ya. Maybe we should go to the hospital just in case."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:30:12 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:33:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:37:31 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 09:41:07 pm
"Ah... I dunno if now would be the' best time..."
"Otik, hun... what exactly have you been teaching our daughter?"
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:42:26 pm
"...What?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 09:45:19 pm
After a couple of tries, she grabs onto Khenal and tries to drag him off.
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 09:55:08 pm
"Um, I guess she has a new game to show me? Uh, later Starkey and Otik?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 10:02:59 pm
"Come on, Friesden, let's go see Doctor Bubbles. You can show Khenal your... new game later."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 10:03:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 10:06:01 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 10:10:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 10:13:37 pm
"Uhm... I dunno, Fri... I dun' know if Khenal..."
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 10:16:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 10:17:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 10:23:13 pm
My eyes widen in shock and my wings flare as I blush bright red from head to hoof.
"Um... uh..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 10:24:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 10:34:20 pm
"Wot? She had t'learn it some time! An' wouldnae ye prefer she heard it from her parents?"
"I'd prefer she heard it from both her parents. What exactly did you put in her head?"
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 10:41:36 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 10:44:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 11:40:01 pm
"Maybeafteryouseethedoctor?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 11:40:51 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 11:43:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 11:44:41 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 12, 2012, 11:53:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 12, 2012, 11:54:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 12, 2012, 11:58:26 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 12:06:35 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 13, 2012, 12:10:48 am
"Why did it have to happen like this," she cries. "They knew, all of them other than Isos, and they didn't care! And Starkey. Starkey is one of them too. It's my job to keep everypony here safe, but I've let a bunch of Diomedian sympathizers get into some of our most important positions and I didn't even know it. I'm so stupid. I'm useless. I'm not fit to be anything here, especially not the Duchess. I...I just don't know what to do anymore. I don't know who I can trust."
"You can trust me." assures Cryptson.
Charity sobs quietly into Cryptson's chest, as he rubs her back.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 13, 2012, 12:28:45 am
"alright, here we are. Now you lie down here while I go fetch Doctor Bubbles, aye?"
He helps Friesden up into the bed, then heads into Bubbles' office.
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 12:30:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 12:33:49 am
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 03:29:22 am
She'd been dumbstruck when the door hit Friesden, and the conversation that followed only served to keep the words out of her mouth. That explained a lot about what she was talking to Otik about. And she felt so embarrassed for Khenal. Friesden was a sweet pony, but her naivety got the better of her sometimes. Probably best not to mention her willing to donate their first born foal to the diomedians.
It was amazing though... her hammer had done nothing to her, where a simple door was enough to knock her senseless... maybe Khenal would have some idea why?
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 03:32:51 am
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 01:03:59 pm
Her eyes widen a bit and she stammers, "Um... Fr-Friesden... I... I mean you..."
That didn't help... "This... this is something special for just you and Khenal..." She turns a pleading expression to Otik. "Right?" If anypony could set this straight, it would be her. What exactly did she tell Friesden?
As if things weren't awkward enough between her and Khenal right now, she didn't need to make this any worse. At least Friesden didn't blurt out to everypony that she had hit her like Khenal...
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 01:14:46 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 13, 2012, 02:04:20 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 02:11:24 pm
Then Otik speaks up, and her cheeks flare up. Not rivaling Khenal's by any stretch, but obvious. What? Did Otik really think that she would... but she only liked stallions... and Friesden was her best friend... but...
Her heart began beating hard in her chest. Maybe she'd just have to go along with it and talk with Friesden privately later and explain that it was something that only she and Khenal should do with each other. But what would everypony think if she did go along with it, just to ease the tension? Otik would probably not care, if the impression she was beginning to get of her was true, but Khenal... oh, sisters... Khenal...
She... she was starting to get a bit light headed...
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 02:47:22 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 02:51:36 pm
Slowly, I look up to Falcata, my face a mixture of disbelief and horror.
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 02:56:40 pm
"Eyes over here, mister!" she says, smiling.
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 05:13:06 pm
She glances at Friesden then turns her eyes to the floor. She didn't dare look up to Khenal right now. Or Otik or Starkey for that matter. She fights for words for a moment, her expression colored by considerable distress. "It... it was an accident..." Patient and understanding as Khenal was, even he would surely find it hard to believe that she'd hit both of them accidentally. And of course, that wasn't even beginning to address the question of why she was taking a swing at a diomedian prisoner... she really didn't feel like trying to explain that to everypony right now...
Post by: Impending Doom on February 13, 2012, 05:17:29 pm
Otik moves in front of Falcata, forcing her to meet her gaze.
"Wot happened? How did ye manage t'accidentally hit Friesden?"
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 05:30:59 pm
"And... You... But...?"
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 05:31:45 pm
She looks into Otik's eyes for a moment, clawing in her mind for the best way to answer. The truth. That's all that could be said at this point. She sighs and says, "I-I was in the arena... trying to relieve some stress..." She points off in the vague direction of the arena with a hoof. "Then... then I found him there. The diomedian who tried to abduct Kris. I couldn't believe it..."
Her face transitions to a scowl for a moment before fading to a distraught frown. "I... I was so angry... all over again." She draws her hammer and brings it up to eye level, looking at the lettering on it, half expecting the Loyalty to be gone. "I was going to give him what he deserved... but Friesden stopped me. She jumped in the way..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 05:33:00 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 07:01:39 pm
'Falcata hit...?! Mmm, lips... But Friesden is-?! Mmm, kissing me... But what if-?! Mmm, she stops...?'
My distraction doesn't last long, and Friesden's kiss helps me to focus on what's important: like kissing her in return.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 13, 2012, 07:10:14 pm
She leans in closer.
"...B'tween you an' me, I wouldnae have lost much sleep over it."
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 07:23:25 pm
At least he didn't know. She didn't really know how Starkey felt about her, but she would feel pretty bad for this to be the defining thing about her in his mind. Although for all she knew the amulet incident was still the thing he knew her best for. Maybe Otik had told him the truth. Maybe not. But this wasn't the time to be worrying over that.
"Right... don't think I've got it in me anymore at least." She looks down at her hammer again and reads the inscription once more. "Loyalty... not too loyal to be hurting my friends..."
She shakes the self pity from her mind for a moment and looks past Otik to Friesden and Khenal. Might as well clear the air while she had a chance. "Sorry again... to both of you. Khenal, I'm not sure if I ever got a chance to apologize after I hit you earlier... after you recovered."
Post by: Khenal on February 13, 2012, 07:33:06 pm
"I'm not sure if you did, either, actually. And you don't need to, Falcata. I know it was an accident when you hit me, and... and I know you would never willingly hurt Friesden, either."
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 08:16:19 pm
To be fair, she had really hurt Khenal. But by rights both of them should probably be dead. How could that have happened? Was she losing her strength or skill? Maybe she had subconsciously noticed they were friends at the last moment and pulled the blows?
No, those had been killing blows. She meant to kill whatever was hit by those attacks. Sisters help her if she had actually killed either of them...
Post by: Dsarker on February 13, 2012, 08:52:06 pm
"Does it really matter? I'm not hurt, Khenal isn't hurt, you're not hurt, and neither is Mikhail."
Post by: Telgin on February 13, 2012, 10:09:05 pm
But, she'd burdened her friends with her problems enough for a while. They had their own problems too. Back when she first came to Glitterglen, she would often take long walks around the perimeter of Glitterglen during the day when it was mostly safe. Fresh air and a chance to think and settle her thoughts always did her mind some good. Perhaps a change of scenery this time? She hadn't set hoof in the caverns for a long time... and as long as she stayed close to Glitterglen it would be safe. And she wouldn't have to worry about any of her friends running into her and questioning what she was doing alone.
Yes... file that thought for later. Maybe tomorrow when she got off duty? Or the next chance she got anyway. A quick stroll through the caverns to clear her head. They were actually quite beautiful, if you took a moment to stop and admire them.
((Will be a bit late getting on the IRC. I freaking hate MPI now, by the way. Screw you, homework.))
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 12:10:11 pm
"...Here she is now, doctor."
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 03:03:32 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 03:38:25 pm
"Probably, Friesden, but I haven't had a chance to examine you yet. How are you feeling? Commander Starkey said you got hit by a door?"
Venture gently prods Friesden's side and prepares a simple medical scan spell to see how she is, chatting amiably the entire time.
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 03:40:14 pm
Friesden fidgets in the bed.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 03:42:49 pm
"A hammer? How-"
"Calm down, hun. I'll explain later."
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 03:45:52 pm
Venture gently shakes her head at Friesden's apparent clumsiness, then finishes the scan spell and nods to herself.
"Well, you seem fine, Friesden. A few bruises and bumps, but nothing serious. So, how goes the wedding planning?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 03:48:15 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 14, 2012, 03:51:22 pm
If Otik was right, and she suspected she was, then that conversation wouldn't be pleasant at all.
As Venture speaks up, she lets out a faint sigh. She expected Friesden to be fine at least, but it was always nice to have a professional confirm a hunch.
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 14, 2012, 03:52:48 pm
"Doctor Bubbles? Doctor Venture? are you in? I brought some soup, pudding and apple sauce for the staff and wounded."
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 03:54:10 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 03:56:35 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 03:58:49 pm
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 14, 2012, 04:07:44 pm
"Thank you kindly, Ms. Venture. It good to be appreciated. Lot of ponies in here today, what happened?"
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 04:10:06 pm
My mood has lightened considerably after Venture gave Friesden a clean bill of health, and I smile warmly.
Venture shrugs.
"Friesden had a little adventure it seems and her family wanted to make sure she was alright."
Post by: Telgin on February 14, 2012, 04:12:20 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 04:12:56 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 04:18:57 pm
I ask, getting gentle whiffs of the delicious smelling soup.
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 14, 2012, 04:20:16 pm
Tom lays out the soup and produces some bowls from under his long coat
"It's Tusscani Tomato, hard to get cow cream but completely worth it."
Post by: Telgin on February 14, 2012, 04:27:43 pm
She'd find Heiro or Kris later and find something to eat with them then. The three of them really needed to spend more time together anyway.
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 05:58:22 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 06:05:28 pm
"Mmm, Venture was right. This soup is amazing!"
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 06:15:47 pm
Friesden leans back over to Khenal, her intent clear.
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 06:19:34 pm
I lovingly kiss Friesden, not caring for anything but her.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 06:25:11 pm
"...Say Tom, you wouldn't mind if Otik and I had a bowl, would you?"
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 14, 2012, 06:51:06 pm
Tom spits on his forehoof and offers it
"On behalf of all the ponies your actions have saved, put'er there."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 06:57:35 pm
"Thank you... the pleasure is all mine."
He takes two bowls for himself and Otik.
Post by: TALLPANZER on February 14, 2012, 07:15:37 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 07:28:07 pm
"Ponies really talk about me... like that?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 14, 2012, 07:30:25 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 14, 2012, 07:32:14 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 14, 2012, 07:41:59 pm
"Dunnae worry, hun. I taught her well. She'll be fine."
"What did you teach her, exactly?"
Otik leans over to whisper in Starkey's ear.
"Uh-huh... Mm-hmm... Ooh, that's good... Mm-hmm... Wait..."
Starkey takes a step back.
"You promised her what!?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 15, 2012, 01:48:06 am
I met with Khenal, Friesden, Isos, Starkey, and Otik today, along with my husband, in my dinning room. We had a lovely meal but then after I told them that the reason for this was the truth about Heiro. Cryptson told them about him being a Keshi among the other things. They were totally unsurprised. They had all, save for Isos, known all along. Friesden was acting like a foal again and I had to send her from the room. Somehow the conversation lead to me getting in an argument with Starkey about the Rainbow Coalition, whereupon he told us that not only was he from there, but actually defended them. I could understand him leaving them if the stories were true, but if it's really as loving and tolerant as the propaganda claim, I don't see why he would have left. But then it got worse. He confessed that he was part Diomedian himself. I could no longer stand to be around them and sent them from the room.
When they left the door struck Friesden, she was thankfully not seriously hurt, but it turns out that Falcata and Friesden had been down in the arena, I'm sketchy on the details but aparently the recaptured Keshi tried to escape. He was recapatrued, I'll have to make sure they take actions to prevent a repeat.
Charity's Secret Diary, 11th Granite, 101
I'm such a foal. I can't believe I let these sympathizers to the enemy get in so many of our leadership positions, these are the ponies I trusted the most, and they don't even care about the security risk that's staring them in the face. Am I such a useless leader? Am I that bad a judge of Character? I should just give up my position. I don't deserve it.
Charity's Journal 12th Granite, 101
Well the day has come, Kris is officially a recruit in the militia, as is the Keshi. I have made sure that his new commander is well aware of his dangerous nature. Additionally Commander Starkey has made Ramol a captain and split the melee fighters into two squads.
17th Granite, 101
The lyemaker continues to scream for body parts, he stole a whole pile of Tank shells after we butchered the only Tank we had, but that apparently wasn't enough for him and none of our bones or skulls interest him. Isos has continued keeping a watch posted near him.
30th Grantite, 101
Well the lyemaker has lost it, he took off all his clothes and is running around babbling like a madpony. But he has not hurt anypony yet.
9th Slate, 101
Today was Kris's first turn in the arena. Starkey wanted to start her off small, a couple of caged parasprites. She started out poorly, the little things flying all around her smashing into her biting her all over, but then she started fighting back, swinging that silver warhammer around, getting a few glancing blows. She than bit one in the leg and shook it around until it flew off, with it's leg still in her mouth, she spit it out and then did the same to one of the other's legs. The parasprites quickly expired after that. Then Starkey sent out a couple of large flightless birds he caught in the jungle, they were no match for Kris's hammer strikes, though one managed to bruise her leg through her boots. After all that she had several scrapes a few bruises but nothing serious. A good first experience. The birds were carted off to the butchers to get what meat we can from them.
13th Slate, 101
Ramol's first real chance in command. A tribe of fishpeople have harassed miss Starnight when she was in the caverns, gathering gemstones. She escaped, but I have decided we need to clear them out. Ramol's squad is being tasked with this. They should be able to deal with it without help.
15th Slate, 101
Ramol's excursion went well they killed or captured every last fishman, with no casualties or injured, but then a group of Ogres showed up. The first was separated from the group and was killed by the combined efforts of Privates Tarik and Morul. Ramol than ordered the men to regroup before tackling the other two, but Shigos disobeyed orders and charged off alone. He managed to beat both by himself with little more than a black eye for his trouble, though Ramol is disciplining him for breaking ranks in spite of his obvious valor.
16th Slate, 101
New migrants.
Male Earthpony farmer
Female Unicorn Dyer
Female Unicorn Cook
Female Unicorn Fisheryworker.
Female Earthpony farmer
Male Unicorn bone carver
Female pegasus peasant
Female Unicorn Clothing Making Legend.
Female Pegasus Bone Carver
Male Earthpony Woodcrafter
Female Unicorn Metalcrafter.
7th Felsite, 101
Starkey and Otik finished construction on their new home. A log cabin down in the caverns. We all wish them the best of luck on their new life together. Everypony went down to their new dinning room for drinks it was a lot of fun.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Starkey%27s%20Cabin.png)
11th Felsite, 101
Today tragedy struck. Udur our best weaponsmith was helping to haul some refuse to the incinerator and he wasn't looking were he was stepping. He stepped in a puddle of magma and burst into flames. He ran screaming through the fort to the Dinning Hall, where he died before he could get the water in the public showers to put him out. His death is a major loss for Glitterglen.
28th Felsite, 101
Azkob's (earthpony lasher under captain Ramol) wife has given birth to there first foal. A little unicorn colt.
21st Hematite, 101
Today, my best friend died. ((This is only legible sentence on the whole page, everything else is blacked out or smeared beyond all legibility))
22nd Hematite, 101
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Baros.png)
Yesterday,
Captain Otik heard the fighting and jumped out of bed where she was laying with the Commander, in their new cabin, and rallied the Skyguard to face the monster, while they fought Starkey got the rest of the militia together, after Otik's squad began to run low on bolts the creature began to annihilate them. 60% of the Skyguard is dead, the rest injured. Otik numbers among the fallen.
Starkey came late to the battle with his Stallions. Peytral is in critical condition, but Kris is keeping him alive as best she can, and a few others have broken hooves or legs, and one from Ramol's squad perished. Starkey was the one who killed the monster after he saw Otik lying on the ground in her own blood. A few peasants got caught in the fighting while going about their work in the caverns one or them was Ironya's son Itur, he was killed by the beast as Peytral tried to save him. Today is a sad day for all Glitterglen. I shall lead the town in a prayer service this afternoon for the fallen warriors, may Luna watch over their souls.
22rd Hematite, 101 Addendum
Peytral's right lung is badly damaged. A fragment of his shattered rib cage pierced it. Friesden needs to operate immediatly to save him.
To replace Colonel Falcata as the head of my security, I'm thinking about promoting Khenal to the position as Captain of the Ducal Guard. We haven't replaced Otik yet. Due to the number of deaths the Skyguard suffered, they are all being given paid time off. I will talk to Commander Starkey soon about what will be done with them.
I sent Kris a gift yesterday and heard she went down to the arena to work out her aggressions with it today and that she found the Keshi that kidnapped her awhile ago, in a cage. Normally, it would not be in her power to just execute a prisoner without formal consent but I have made sure she will pardoned for her breach of protocol. He didn't deserve better and I understand her desire to do it herself.
6h Malachite, 101
A strange quite pony has taken over one of the craft workshops.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 15, 2012, 01:55:08 am
Post by: Telgin on February 15, 2012, 02:56:32 am
She continues down the passage, still within her faint memory of the tunnels' maps. A faint chilly wind catches her mane, tussling what was free beneath her chanfron. Where the winds came from she never did find out, but it didn't do much to alleviate the haunted feel of the place. The wistful images she held of the caverns were in a bit of contrast to the real thing after so long, but she continued on. At least nopony would run into her down here.
As a raw gem in the cavern wall catches her eye, she sets her mind to the purpose she had intended up to that point: settling her mind. So much had happened lately, she was astonished she'd been able to handle it. Even back in Coupledye she had never been a particularly sociable pony, but in Glitterglen she hadn't had any friends until fairly recently. Learning to communicate and empathize with them was more stressful than she had anticipated. So many stray emotions... where to start?
Khenal and Friesden maybe? She still didn't understand how she'd managed to avoid killing the two of them. Even though both had forgiven her, she hadn't quite forgiven herself yet. Friesden was a true and horrific accident, but she should have known better than do what she did that hurt Khenal. Striking out without looking... of course somepony would get hurt. He should be dead...
But Friesden wasn't so different. It was a pretty terrible thing she'd planned to do that got her hurt in the first place. If she hadn't been planning on executing the diomedian herself, then Friesden wouldn't have jumped in the way. She wouldn't have gotten hurt. Kris was alright... why did she want to kill him so badly?
Then... what would Captain Starkey have thought of her if she had killed him? She respected Starkey a lot, and suspected even before Otik told her that he'd be very angry to know she'd done that. He'd have a point. She didn't want him to think badly of her. Starkey was a great fighter and leader, she wanted to live up to his example... Why... why did she care so much what other ponies thought about her?
Lady Charity leaps into her mind at that thought. The day she'd found out that Heiro was a diomedian... that she found out that she knew he was a diomedian and hadn't told her... she wouldn't forget that day. The look of horror and utter betrayal on her face... raising her voice at her. Sisters above why did it hurt her so much to have Charity get upset with her? She respected the duchess so much... she could understand the frustration... but she was a grown mare herself. Why did she almost cry at the time? Was she that upset about other things, or was the thought of upsetting Charity that hard on her?
She felt a pang of sadness roll through her, and she pauses in her tracks. She stamps a hoof into the cavern floor in anger. Why the buck did she want to cry now? She was a grown mare. She wasn't suppose to break down at the smallest things like this. What had happened to her? She could remember not that long ago how easily she stood up to the things that happened to her. She was so much stronger then... why was she so much weaker now?
That brought her Lord Cryptson... he was one of the ponies she was charged with protecting above all others. And he didn't need her. He was so much stronger, faster and more skilled than she was. The royal family didn't need her. They never had. He could protect them from anything she could and more. She could train all of her life and she would never match his strength... she was only a mare. How he'd learned such military skill she didn't know... perhaps she was just that inept. A miner... utterly crushing her in a fight.
The tears begin to finally surface in her eyes. No... clop it! She wasn't going to cry... she wasn't... a tear rolls down each cheek and she lies on the ground in the middle of the massive cavern, letting the tears come but trying to keep the sniffling to a minimum. Why... why wasn't she able to just take all of this in stride like she used to be able to?
She thinks to Heiro and the upcoming wedding, which didn't do much to settle her nerves. She'd probably hurt him a lot by putting it off, even if he didn't admit it to her. And she still wasn't sure she was ready. He was a kind and loving pony, and she cared a lot for him... but she still had a lot more thinking to do about that. Which was why she was here, after all...
Then a noise. Something... large. She stands, feeling her heart rate climb. What was it? She turns and looks about, seeing nothing. Then a low... growl... of some sort echoes through the caverns. The source was close, she could tell. In a near panic she begins heading back toward Glitterglen. The last time she fought something large down here... things didn't go well. She nearly died... and that had been a major fiasco involving so many ponies...
She picks up her pace and trots back toward the entrance, feeling her spine ice over as another growl echoes through the caverns, unmistakable and closer. She turns a corner to find herself face-to-hoof with a monstrosity. A towering hooved creature with a trunk and feathers. Immediately it moves to attack, and she dances away at the last moment. Everything in her body screamed for her to flee in terror. She had to run... she had to...
No. She could see that running now wouldn't serve anypony but herself. She was close to the entrance to Glitterglen. If she fled now, it would follow her inside and kill who knew how many ponies. No... she wasn't a coward. She would stand and fight. She would prove to Lady Charity, Lord Cryptson and all of Glitterglen that she deserved the honor and title she had been given. She faces the giant antelope and draws her weapon. This creature died here.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 15, 2012, 04:06:22 am
Starkey snuggles a little closer to Otik.
"It's nothing, hun. Just the new house settling."
"No... it sounded like... steel on leather. Like a weapon bein' drawn."
Starkey chuckles quietly, "Relax, hun. Nopony's going to assassinate us in our new home."
Then came the battle-cry. both of them bolt upright.
"That was Falcata!"
Starkey retrieves his axe from the bedside table, passing Otik her crosbow as he does. They both dash out the door, finding Falcata already engaged in single combat with some eldritch abomination from the deep. She seems to be putting up one hell of a fight, but is rapidly losing ground.
"I'll rouse the militia. Your lads can get down here far faster than we can. Get them geared up and send them down here. That thing does not enter the fortress, lieutenant, are we clear?"
"Aye, Cap'n."
They bolt up the stairwell into Glitterglen together, heading for the barracks.
Post by: Telgin on February 15, 2012, 04:08:10 am
A determined scowl forms on Falcata's face as she stares down the immense creature set on killing her. She'd prove to everypony that she wasn't weak. She wasn't a coward. She could defend Lady Charity and Lord Cryptson. She could defend Glitterglen. The magical aura around her hammer glows brightly as she waits for an opening.
She didn't wait long. The beast kicks at her clumsily, and she rolls under the gigantic hoof with ease. As she comes out of the roll, she brings her hammer up into the beast's belly with all the force she could muster. Immediately it looses a bone shaking shriek and backs away. She stands and circles it, ducking another clumsy kick and swinging her hammer with more might than she knew she had in her body. Her effort is rewarded with a satisfying crack of smashed ribs and the monster's shriek is choked and startled.
It was wounded... crippled. She could do this. She steps aside from another kick and swings her hammer, missing. She swings again and again, missing several times before finally landing a solid blow against its flank. This blow didn't even elicit a response from the beast, and she backs away. Suddenly she finds her breath short and feels exhaustion rolling through her. Swinging her hammer so hard so many times... all of the training in the world from Khenal wouldn't have mattered. Her magic was too weak. She was too weak to keep fighting...
She backs away and tries to evaluate her options. If she ran... lots of ponies would die. If she stayed... could she win? What would she...
Her thoughts are forcibly removed from her mind as a hoof half her size collides with her temple. Her chanfron is sent sailing off in an arc as she is thrown from her hooves. She lands in a heap some distance away. Dazed, she fights through red foggy vision and by sheer willpower forces herself to stay awake. If she passed out... she would be dead for sure. She scrabbles to her feet a moment too late, and a hoof is caught beneath a crushing stomp from the giant antelope. She screams in pain as her hoof is crushed, but the pain fades in an instant as adrenaline floods her veins anew.
She hobbles back and takes another ineffective swing, only to be rewarded with another crushing kick to her side. Her body explodes in pain as her crupper is dented... the ragged edges of metal digging into her side and drawing blood. Another devastating kick to her belly sends her from her hooves again, and she lands against a wall opposite the creature. More by luck than judgement she stays on her hooves... but she nearly topples to the ground as pain rolls through her. She was hurt. Badly. Instantly nausea fills her body and she feels stabbing pain with each movement... but through all of that she notices something new. A vapor in the air.
Immediately she feels fear anew. It was that vapor that had given her the terrible sickness that nearly claimed her life. She holds her breath and tries to keep the monster in sight as the vapors drift away, but her side and stomach hurt so much... she hadn't believed in actual blinding pain before, but her vision blurs for a moment as she tries to take a step away. Much to her shock, the particles brush against her exposed flesh and send waves of agony through her. She cries out and grits her teeth to fight through the pain, losing sight of the antelope for a moment more. A fatal mistake.
She looks up at the last moment to see those immense hooves inches from her face. And the world goes dark...
Spoiler: Fading away... (don't look if you don't want to be sad) (click to show/hide)
Post by: Impending Doom on February 15, 2012, 08:40:43 pm
"Clop, Falcata's down! Kib, Olon, cover her! Everypony else, on tha' beast!"
The ponies of the skyguard surge forward, leaving Otik and her two wingponies standing over their falled comrade. She reaches down, feeling for a pulse. She finds it: weak, and rapidly fading, but there.
"C'mon hun, hold on just a few moments longer..."
A few moments come and pass, as the marksponies pepper the great antelope fiend with fire. Bolt after razor-tipped bolt finds purchase in its feathered hide, but the beast did not slow. The assault of the skyguard, however, cannot endure.
"Quiver's empty, ma'am!"
"Out o' bolts, I'm moving in!"
One by one, the pegasi sound off as their ammunition is expended.
'So it's t'be th' close-in fight...'
They close, swinging at the creature with their heavy crossbows. Their blows d little against its tough hide. A blast of noxious vapor from its mouth sends a knot of ponies reeling in pain, making them easy prey.
Their screams of her comrades-in-arms reach Otik's ears.
"No..."
She takes wing, leaving the pair guarding Falcata and swooping down on the beast, emptying the last of her bolts into its thick hide. the sight of three marksponies lying dead, their skulls caved in, fuels her rage. She dives at the beast, smashing her masterfully crafted weapon into its side. A blast of excruciating fumes knockes her from the sky, sending her weapon from her grasp. Otik Ploughs face-first into the cavern floor, skidding to a stop at the creature's feet. As her vision returns, a glint of adamantine catches her eye. She reaches for her fallen weapon.
She does not reach it. The world goes black...
Post by: Telgin on February 15, 2012, 09:57:35 pm
Falcata opens her eyes, finding even the faint cavern light blinding and agony inducing. Slowly, the pain wracking her body returns... starting with her crushed hoof, working its way to her head. She felt as if somepony had stabbed a greatsword into her skull and was twisting it with each beat of her heart. Everything was blurry... she blinks and tries to focus her eyes, but she couldn't make anything out.
Intense nausea returns along with an unbearable burning pain in her stomach and side. She tries to turn her head to get a better view of the caverns, but a sharp stab jabs through her head, neck and stomach and she simply lets out a choked gasp.
Nothing made sense... where was she? Why was she on the ground? What were all of the noises around her? Why did she hurt so much? Why was there so much blood on the ground? Who were the ponies in front of her? What was... that... thing?
She watches as somepony is swatted from the sky, landing in a crumpled heap at the monster's hooves. That probably wasn't a good thing... but she couldn't quite place why. Then another and another were crushed beneath its hooves. No... this was a bad thing... very bad... Then somepony was caught in a cloud and fell to the ground, landing on her face and dropping something. That pony looked familiar... why couldn't she remember anything? Then the creature deals her a crushing blow... Otik. That was the pony's name... Otik. She knew her somehow...
Her eyes open completely as terror fills her body. Otik! That... that thing was attacking Otik! She tries to stand, but even attempting to move her ruined body sends unbearable shocks of pain down her spine. She cries out and flinches, watching in horror as the skyguard is decimated in front of her. No... no... this couldn't be happening! She had to get up. She had to help! She couldn't just lay there!
Once more she tries to get to her hooves, focusing her will harder than she ever had in her life to fight through the pain, but it was no use. Her vision wavers and fades again as she moves her head, and unimaginable agony stabs through any hope of staying awake...
Post by: Impending Doom on February 16, 2012, 09:33:03 pm
Starkey does not see her now. He sees only red.
Even as the beast falls dead, Starkey continues his assault on its corpse. It takes four stallions to restrain their stricken commander. His wails of anguish echo throughout the halls of Glitterglen.
Post by: Dsarker on February 16, 2012, 10:20:05 pm
Even as she works, she almost subconsciously looks up at the door every five minutes. But as she finishes the surgery, her mood has gone, and she smiles. "Only one injury...that's good."
Post by: Telgin on February 16, 2012, 10:37:47 pm
Kris follows the rest of her squad down into the caverns, feeling her breathing grow uneven with nervousness. Cold sweat begins to form on her brow as they draw close, and with effort she keeps Heiro in sight. She needed to calm down. Everything was going to be alright. Captain Starkey and Heiro were here. The two of them could handle whatever it was down there, and with the rest of the ponies this would be easy. No need to get worried.
Then they arrive at the caverns. She freezes in place at the horror of it all. Pegasi are strewn about the cavern floor in varying states of disarray. All are motionless, and already she knew most of them wouldn't be getting back up again. It feels as if a boulder forms in her stomach as she looks on at the carnage, and only the horrified cry of Captain Starkey snaps her out of the stupor. She watches as he leaps upon the monstrous cervid, followed by most of the rest of their squad. Kris doesn't follow. She simply stares at the death around her. They were too late... too late for so many ponies... she couldn't help them...
Eventually the beast falls dead, torn apart by the furious blows from the ponies mobbing it. Kris finally finds strength in her legs to check the stricken ponies around them, although she knew already it was too late. One by one she confirms her fears, finding all of the downed Skyguard dead. Her heart sinks, she joined the militia just so she could prevent this, but she hadn't helped at all.
Starkey's enraged blows against the corpse of the monster draw her attention for a moment, and her eyes settle on something that chills her to her core. A single silver warhammer lying in the middle of the cavern. No...
Then she hears the faint sound of metal rattling, and follows it with her ears with growing apprehension. A horrified scream leaves her mouth as she finally sees what she feared most: her mother lying on the cavern floor in a large pool of blood. She bolts over to her trembling mother's side, screaming in despair and disbelief. "MOM!!!"
She crouches next to Falcata, her entire body shaking in fear. Blood was everywhere. She looks over her briefly, evaluating the extent of her injuries. They didn't look too bad... except for the blood leaking from her nose and ears. Her skull was broken... it had to be. That could be very bad, but she was alive still. If she was still alive, she would probably make it. She could do this.
"Mom? Mom, can you hear me?"
Falcata's eyes crack, and she cringes before crying out. "B-Buck... it... it h-hurts..." Her eyes track aimlessly around the cave as she clenches her jaw shut and stifles a moan
"It's going to be okay mom... just hang on a moment..." Kris shuts her eyes and focuses a spell as she gently lays a hoof on her mother's side. An image of her injuries appears in her mind, and all of her optimism is crushed utterly. This was bad... no, horrifying. Falcata's kidney was crushed... and she was hemorrhaging from ruptures in half a dozen places in her abdomen. Maybe a burst spleen... she had lost a lot of blood... but the worst of it was the fractures in her skull. Her brain was beginning to swell...
There was nothing she could do. If she tried to staunch the hemorrhaging with her magic... her mom would have a heart attack or stroke immediately. If they tried to move her, a bone fragment could shift in her head and kill her instantly. They could try a transfusion... she'd gladly give every drop of her own blood to save her mom... but she'd never survive the trip to the hospital. She wouldn't survive the next few minutes. There was nothing she could do... nothing...
"Mom... it's going to be okay..." But it wasn't. Tears begin streaming down her cheeks as she does the only thing she could in this situation. Her horn glows a dull gold, and the pain in her mother's body begins to fade. She didn't dare to use too much power... if her mom passed out now, she'd never wake back up.
Falcata lets out a sigh of absolute relief as the agony fades to mere stabbing pain in most of her body. She blinks through the muddiness in her vision to see the caverns around her, and her daughter crying in front of her. Everything seemed so far away... so quiet... but at least she could think again. Why was she here again? What had happened? As the pain drains away, a hint of clarity reasserts itself...
"Kris... Kris, honey... wh-where... where is Captain... Starkey? Could... you bring... him here...?"
Kris shakes her head slowly, sniffling. "I'm not going to leave you..."
"Please... honey... this... this is... important..."
Reluctantly, Kris nods and stands. "I'll be right back. I'm not going anywhere..." She turns to find Starkey wailing over the corpse of somepony... Otik. No... please... not her too... please, no Luna... She slowly makes her way over to the two, new tears dripping from her cheeks onto the ground. What to say? What could she say? Otik was clearly dead... she felt sick... she couldn't imagine what Starkey was feeling... but her mom...
"C-C-Captain...?" she manages to choke out, her voice high and cracking. "C-Can you come here?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 01:36:52 am
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 01:51:10 am
She collapses next to Starkey, sobbing herself. She tries to say something... but she didn't even know what she wanted to say. All that comes out is a garbled cry.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 01:58:42 am
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 02:11:38 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 02:20:48 am
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 02:25:03 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 02:26:30 am
Starkey shakily gets to his hooves and makes his way to Falcata.
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 02:47:18 am
Kris steps over to her, fighting the urge to break down in despair. "Mom... I'm here... it's going to be okay..."
Heiro wanders up now, having broken away from his own sobbing at Otik's demise at the sight of Starkey and Kris heading this way. He spots Falcata and freezes in place. No...
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 02:50:58 am
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 03:06:04 am
She blinks weakly. A frown forms on her face, and hints of tears well up in her eyes. "I'm scared... I-I'm not ready to face her..." She swallows again, and adds, "...please... would you... give me my last rites...?"
Kris and Heiro fall into each others' hooves, and resume to crying.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 03:09:23 am
Starkey reaches into his saddlebags, drawing out one of the many keys he keeps for fallen comrades. He kneels over Falcata, reciting the Last Rites, and gently places it in her hooves.
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 04:04:32 am
She looks up to to Heiro and Kris. "I... love you... both of you... I'm... I'm sorry for putting you... through this..." With another pained cry, she closes her eyes.
Kris steps over with Heiro, and kneels beside her "I love you too, mom..." She begins crying again. "...and... it's okay..." Bitter tears begin to stain the fur on her cheeks. "...it's okay..."
Heiro stands beside the two, unable to say anything until now. "I l-l-love y-you t-t-t-too, F-F-Falcata..." As tears drip from his eyes, he collapses onto the ground and begins sobbing.
Kris bites her lip and tries to stifle her own tears... to no avail. As she cries, her horn begins to glow a dull gold, and the remaining pain in Falcata's body dissipates. The mortally wounded mare sighs in relief and drifts from consciousness. She lingers for some minutes, her breathing slowing and growing more labored until she shudders her last and expires. Kris collapses onto the ground, tears flowing freely.
She... she just helped her mother die...
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 09:02:57 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 17, 2012, 10:36:41 pm
"Peytrel... he's alive! Quick, somepony, we've got to get him to the hospital! This doesn't look good... he might not make it..."
Kris looks up as she hears the exchange. She was too late for Otik and her mom. And the dead Skyguard... but maybe she wasn't too late to help him. She forces herself to uneasy hooves and steps over to the stricken pony. They were right... his ribs were broken at least, and several bones in his legs. With difficulty she focuses her body reading spell and sees the shattered bones tearing into his lung. He was very badly wounded... he wouldn't live without immediate help. But it wasn't too late.
Her horn glows a bright gold and the bleeding in his body begins to slow. He was already unconscious, but he had a fighting chance now. If he didn't have a heart attack or a stroke, he could be saved.
"Th-there... hurry up and get him to the hospital... he'll be okay if they tend to him immediately..."
The stallions surrounding Peytrel nod and as one lift him from the ground and hurry off toward the hospital. Kris looks back to her mother's corpse. She felt numb. This wasn't happening...
Post by: DVNO on February 17, 2012, 11:20:49 pm
Try as he might, the panther just can’t shake Willow Darkmane off. she’s positioned precariously on the panther’s back, her two fore hooves keeping her crossbow steady, her rear right hoof was dedicated to jerking the panther’s head back with a make-shift vine halter, and her left rear hoof had the toughest job of keeping all of this balanced.
“c’mon, smile you son of a...” Willow growled. if she could just get it’s head up long enough to put a bolt through it...
Wings unfurl from the panther’s body.
“you can Fly?” Willow exclaimed in agitated surprise.
“Course you can Fllllllaaaaaeeee~”
with two powerful strokes of it’s wings the panther was off - With Willow still strapped to it by the vine halter.
The Banker took a good ten seconds to pick up his jaw, another minute to admit that just happened, and another five seconds to realize he wasn't alone.
A pack of three Badgerponies descend upon him, releasing bizarre hyena-like howls in anticipation of their next meal.
“I-I...” The Banker stammered hopelessly. conflict just wasn't in his nature. “No, not like this!” he grabs a pathetic sized branch off the ground with his mouth to defend himself. “mot Mhike -is!”
A Badgerpony jumped at him, and Roughneck intercepted. the dog crushed creature’s head in it’s jaws in a single motion and started to tango with the second. That Badgerpony looked at the third for some backup, and the third Badgerpony gave him a deadpan “you serious?” look and took off after the Banker. The Banker started running like a little girl.
He galloped until a side stitch betrayed him. Some ponies are living Diomidian kill machines, and others can only run for fifteen minutes.
“Oh sod this, let it kill me!” he exasperated.
the Badgerpony caught up in seconds, grinning ear to ear and salivating.
The Banker winced in fear and the Badgerpony also, surprisingly.
A Sabertooth tiger five times larger than an average pony leaps out slashes the Badgerpony in the jugular and pops the prey into his mouth. the sabertooth slowly turns and stares at the unicorn.
“~aaaiiieee!!”
Willow collided back to earth with a brutal wet -Chunk-! and the sound made the Sabertooth bolt off. She was twisted in all sorts of wrong angles.
“Oh, Armok. Armok Christ!” The Banker exclaimed. He runs over to her and starts to smack her in the muzzle to get her conscious. her head just rolled side to side, unresponsive.
The Banker starts to preform CPR, and it’s not working. He blushes a little when he considers mouth to mouth. He knows his wife wouldn't approve, but acknowledges now is not the time for modesty.
He presses his lips to Willow’s and blows. Willow vomits a small fountain of blood into the banker’s mouth, who reared his head back gags up and vomits aswell.
She starts to laugh.
“Crazy mare. Gave me a hart attack. what’s funny about the situation we’re in? I almost died! you almost died! Hell, you still might die! what’s so funny?” the banker said, wiping the blood off his mouth.
“If this looks bad, look a’ tha’ other guy!” she smiles and points up.
He follows her hoof and sees the winged Panther dead, twisted in the jungle branches above.
He eased up, and started to chuckle too.
“Crazy mare.” he sighed.
Willow laughed until it became a heavy wheeze from her injuries.
“ya’ know, I never ask’d yer’ name, Did I?” she choked. It was Intentional. she never asked the name of her marks, always tried to keep the conversations informal and impersonal. It was such a simple job. Step one, put caltrops on the road. Step two, wait for a Caravan wagon and let the caltrops tear the wheels apart. Step three, Give the Idiot coaching the caravan a tour of the jungle for a few hours while her posse robbed him blind.
“Oh, you’re right. Name’s Sigil Tanner.”
“Sigil Tanner? That’s a’ strong name. Lis’ten Sigil, I- I need you ta’ be strong. There is a -”
She makes a long, deep sigh. she knew she had to visit Glitterglen one of these days, but wanted to prolong it as long as possible. she needed to talk to her brother, Couth, to close old wounds. but what what would she say? what could she say? how could she possibly atone for what she did to him?
“A Fort, Glitterglen, believe it’s called. they ‘ave a doctor. It’s fourteen miles away. I’ ‘eed you ta carry me.”
“Oh, Willow, I'm about to collapse as is! I don’t have it in me.”
I ‘eed you ta be strong, Sigil.”
Sigil looked at her for a long while. He gritted his teeth and hoisted Willow on his back.
“Alright, which way?”
-a day and a half later-
Sigil finally the breeches the edge of the jungle, with Willow on unconscious on his back and Roughneck at his side, and drags his hooves to Glitterglen’s front gate.
His eyes are hollowed out from exhaustion and his head hangs barely an inch from the dirt.
“Hail!” Sigil shouted.
No response.
“Hello? somepony? anypony?”
Again, no response.
‘Odd. A fort without a military is like a well without water.’ Sigil thought.
he pushed the front gate open and walked in.
Post by: Dsarker on February 17, 2012, 11:25:25 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 17, 2012, 11:54:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 17, 2012, 11:58:28 pm
"Hey dad! Hey brother! Only one injury, that's good, isn't it! Where's mum and Falcata?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 12:01:30 am
"F-Friesden, I... we... s-she..."
He cannot form the words. Starkey collapses into Friesden's hooves, weeping openly.
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 12:03:06 am
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 12:06:13 am
Her eyes track from the recovering pony to the knot forming around Friesden. She looks away, saying nothing.
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 12:18:58 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 12:19:39 am
The two arrive in the Hospital and look around. Adamant sees Kris and makes his way toward her, while Charity stands by the doorway, looking in vein for Falcata or Khenal.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 12:21:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 12:22:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 12:24:34 am
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 12:25:56 am
Heiro looks Friesden in the eyes, trying to hide the pain he felt. "S-Sis... mom... and Falcata... they... they didn't..." he trails off, his voice cracking.
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 12:27:56 am
'No...Got to be strong...Got to hide the pain. Save it for later. Just need to help my brother and my dad...'
Friesden does her best to comfort her father, holding him, and letting him cry into her mane.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 12:36:24 am
Charity not seeing the ponies she was looking for instead looks over to Starkey and his family, well most of his family. 'I'd best not interrupt them, but I need to know what has happened...' Charity approaches them to just within earshot, and listens in on their conversation, while trying not to intrude.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 12:37:43 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 12:45:35 am
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 12:47:44 am
Heiro hugs the two ponies next to him, crying softly. "W-we were t-too late..."
*****
Falcata slowly feels the world come to again. Was she not dead yet? How long would she have to suffer? She opens her eyes and sees the caverns around her... but something was different. Everything was cast in a gloomy glow... and she didn't hurt any more. She immediately looks down and a gasp passes her lips as she sees her bloodied corpse on the ground. Slowly... slowly... drifting away.
She was dead... this was it. She'd wouldn't be there with Kris anymore... she wouldn't be marrying Heiro now... she... she had to face Luna...
A key hanging from a string around her neck catches her eye. Captain Starkey had administered her last rites... but she was still terrified to face her judgement. She'd killed... no, murdered two ponies in Coupledye. What escape was there for her?
She kicks and fights against the invisible force drawing her up into the moonlight, somehow penetrating through the cavern ceiling to frame her dead body. "No!" she screams, reaching out for her corpse. "Not yet! I can't die now! Not now!" Carrot had fought it... but she was too weak... too tired. She couldn't fight it...
She looks around desperately, and to her horror, she sees the spirits of more ponies drifting upward. Including Otik. No...
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 12:56:37 am
Finally he just say, "I'm sorry Kris." as he continues to hold her tight, "Just cry it out, I'm here for you."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 12:59:51 am
"Falcata!"
She half-gallops, half-flies to where her corpse lays, and leaps up, trying to grasp her flailing legs.
"N-No, not you too! Don' go, Falcata, fight it!"
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 01:12:38 am
*****
"Otik! Help me, please!" Falcata reaches out for Otik's hoof, and after several agonizing failures she manages to grab hold. An instant later the two find themselves snatched back to the ground. Above them, the spirits of the deceased skyguard drift away, out of sight.
Falcata rights herself and throws her hooves around Otik. "Thank you, thank you, thank you... I'm not ready to die yet... I can't..."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 01:19:23 am
"I-It's okay, I've got ye... I'm not goin' t'let ye go..."
"I-I tried t'save th' others... I tried t'make them stay, but..."
She buries her face in Falcata's mane.
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 01:38:20 am
*****
Falcata likewise buries her face in Otik's mane, and begins to cry softly. "I'm sorry Otik... I'm so sorry... they're all dead... and... and we..." she whimpers.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 01:47:40 am
****
'Did...Did I hear that right. Otik and Falcata. Falcata is, no she couldn't be, she's she's just hurt, injured, but then she'd be in here somewhere.' Charity looks around frantically, but alas she sees no sign of her dearest friend, 'it...it can't be. Falcata, DEAD.'
Charity chokes back tears, 'NO! You can't break down like this, not in front of everypony. You're the Duchess, you need to be better than that!'
She walks up to the hugging group of ponies, "Co..Commander Starkey, please give me an update, on, on the situation."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 02:03:47 am
- - - - - -
Otik strokes Falcata comfortingly.
"I-It's okay... Yer safe... yer safe now, an' that's wot matters."
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 02:10:19 am
'Mum...Mum...I need you...Please, keep me strong enough for them...'
Post by: Telgin on February 18, 2012, 02:12:32 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 02:20:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 02:24:02 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 02:36:48 am
'NO YOU FOAL! Don't you dare cry in front of everypony.'
Charity lies down and tries to hide her face, she is clearly and not very quietly sobbing.
'look at this, what kind of leader are you. What would your father think of you now, or your brothers. A real noble wouldn't break down like this. You are pathetic.'
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 02:40:31 am
"Charity? Please? Can you come over here? Please?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 02:43:45 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 18, 2012, 02:51:26 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 18, 2012, 02:55:54 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 18, 2012, 02:59:21 am
Post by: Khenal on February 18, 2012, 05:51:09 pm
'She always takes any deaths so hard, even if she didn't know them personally...'
Post by: Impending Doom on February 19, 2012, 12:16:19 am
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 12:29:35 am
Falcata sniffles and nods weakly. Otik was right... she didn't have to face Luna yet. She still had a chance to make amends for what she'd done. They just had to...
She looks aside to see her body still lying in the middle of the eerie glow. Wait... if they weren't dead, why were they still like this? Shouldn't they be... reuniting with their bodies? Or, waking up in their bodies? Or passing out to wake up in their bodies later? Or... something?
A concerned expression forms on her face. "O-Otik... what... what do we do now?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 19, 2012, 12:48:12 am
"Uhm, I'm nae sure... maybe we hafta go back t'our bodies?"
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 12:54:23 am
"Otik... I... I think..."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 19, 2012, 12:56:36 am
Otik gallops over to her own corpse, mimicking Falcata's actions, and even trying to lay down within it, to no avail.
"I... I dun' understand..."
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 01:36:18 am
Falcata's fur stands on end as she hears the stallion's voice. She slowly turns her head to bring him into view, her eyes wide and mouth slightly agape. "Estoc..."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 19, 2012, 01:42:49 am
"You... yer Estoc, yer..."
"N-No, there's always a way, there hasta be a way!"
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 01:50:37 am
Falcata continues to stare at him silently for a few moments before taking several uneasy steps toward him. "Estoc..." she repeats in disbelief.
Post by: DVNO on February 19, 2012, 02:32:35 am
"Uh, miss? Where's the-"
"Please, Sir, my Friend's hurt-"
"Could someone please, just please, slow down and tell me where the hospital is?" Sigil pleaded.
Every pony he tried to flag down shirked him off, either preoccupied with another duty or too crushed from the battle's aftermath to help.
"You! Hey you! was she injured in the battle? Are there more? please, where is my son!?" A mare demanded.
"A battle? what battle? What are talking about?"
"oh, my son- where's my-" the mare brakes down sobbing.
"where would your son be?"
"He might be injured, he didn't come back with the other sky guard!"
"I'll see what I can find out. Need to find a doctor first, though."
The mare looked at him with incredulity.
"Dr. Friesden's in the hospital you bleed'in Idiot."
"which Is?"
"Down the damn hall, and a left! where it's always been!" she shouted.
"Finally!" Sigil exasperated.
Post by: DVNO on February 19, 2012, 03:41:36 am
Post by: Khenal on February 19, 2012, 03:45:10 pm
'...Where's Falcata and Otik?'
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 04:01:37 pm
"I... I think I'm going to throw up..."
Throwing up on Master Adamant... what would her mom think of that? Mom...
She chokes and cringes at the thought, tightening her embrace on Adamant a bit.
*****
Falcata finally reaches Estoc and reaches out with a trembling hoof. She expected it to pass through him as ineffectually as an illusion, but she finds him solid. Her hoof rests on his withers and a chill runs through her. He simply smiles. "You... you're real... it's really you..."
"Yes, Falcata. It's me." He turns to face her instead of Otik. "I never left your side."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 19, 2012, 04:25:49 pm
((Sorry thought that Khenal was speaking, when he was just thinking to himself.))
"...It's okay Kris." Adamant continues to hold onto her, but looks up toward Khenal when he sees him come in. He looks at Khenal and shakes his head, hoping to convey some information like that, before looking away again.
Post by: Khenal on February 19, 2012, 05:15:44 pm
I slowly walk over to Friesden, Starkey and Charity and join in the embrace, unable to ask for confirmation of my fears.
Post by: Dsarker on February 19, 2012, 05:21:03 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 19, 2012, 10:37:15 pm
"T-Thank you, all of you..."
Starkey pulls Friesden and Heiro to him, clutching them to his chest.
"M-My brave, strong little ponies... I love you both so much..."
'I promise I'll protect them, my love. I'll never let anything happen to them... I swear it.'
- - - - - -
"N-No... no... no, no no no nonono..."
Otik collapses to the ground, endlessly repeating that single syllable.
Post by: Telgin on February 19, 2012, 10:57:27 pm
*****
Falcata and Estoc lock eyes for what feels like an eternity. Abruptly she throws her hooves around his neck and says, "Oh, Estoc... you don't know how much I've missed you..."
He pulls her into a firm but gentle embrace. "Not as much as I've missed you. Falcata, you just don't know..."
As Otik collapses and begins to recite her disbelief, the two break away and step over to her. Both sit next to her and each lays a hoof on her withers. "I'm so sorry..." Estoc mutters.
Falcata pulls her close, offering a shoulder to cry on if she wanted it. There weren't words to express how sorry she was... how responsible she felt for this... "I'm sorry Otik... this is... if I could..." Words leave her. They... they were dead... what comfort was there for somepony who was dead that had so much to live for?
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 12:40:42 am
'For you, my mother. I will be strong. I will show no pain, the better to aid them.'
Post by: Impending Doom on February 20, 2012, 01:39:24 am
Post by: Telgin on February 20, 2012, 01:53:01 am
But Otik... she didn't have anypony like that here. What could she possibly do for her? This was it... just letting her know she wasn't alone.
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 02:52:30 am
"Mum! Mum! Falcata! Why? Why were you taken from me? Why!? I need you, both of you! Please, please come back! I don't have the strength to continue to help dad and Heiro. Please, I need you. Please, just one thing, a small reason to go on, something to keep going? Just that. That's all I need. Please, just help me. I need you more than ever now..."
When the lack of any reply makes its mark upon her expectant silence, her tone changes. "Fine...I'll keep going." No longer her normal tone, it is subdued, defeated. "I'm too tired in my heart anymore...Mum, I can't keep doing this. I can't keep loving you and Falcata. It hurts too much. I can't keep looking for you. I can't. Forgetting is my only defence anymore. Bye...bye mum, bye Falcata..." Slowly and quietly she makes her way back to the bed, and lies down once more.
Post by: Impending Doom on February 20, 2012, 03:16:40 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 03:29:08 am
Charity awakens early in the morning as usual, and spends an hour working on, well really just staring at, her latest sculpture. It was going to be a gift to Falcata, for her next birthday. After a while she gives up not knowing what to do with it and has some haulers take it to storage. She then goes and wakes up her husband with a kiss. They get properly dressed and go down to the dinning hall. They don't see Khenal there so they assume that he's still at home. They pick up breakfast for themselves and their friend, (sausage and eggs for Charity, Oatmeal and a muffin for Cryptson, and some of Tom's vegetable stew for Khenal and Friesden.) before going to knock on Khenal's door.
"Khenal? It's Charity and Cryptson. We brought breakfast. May we come in?"
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 03:43:04 am
"Of course, come in! Let me get the door."
My horn glows as I open the door for Charity and Cryptson.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 03:49:10 am
Cryptson walks in behind and adds a brief, "morning."
Charity takes a seat and says, "I didn't know what you like to have for breakfast so I brought you some of Tom's vegetable stew. I hope that's okay."
Khenal can't help but notice that Charity seems to be in a fairly good mood considering the recent deaths, either that or she's faking one fairly convincingly.
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 03:55:44 am
"Hello duchess. Hello Cryptson," she says, a perfect mask over her feelings.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 04:01:26 am
Cryptson adds an affirmative grunt. (Still more than he'd give to most ponies.)
She continues, "we brought breakfast if you want some. I need to talk to Khenal, about some business, but you are welcome to join us if you have the time."
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 04:02:23 am
Friesden's reaction, however, makes me concerned. My horn glows as I pull out a seat for Friesden.
"Um, thank you Charity. Vegetable soups sounds great."
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 04:03:23 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 04:07:49 am
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 04:12:25 am
"Um... no?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 04:18:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 04:21:21 am
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 04:25:36 am
*Cough*"Me? Why not *Cough* Osal and Madush?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 04:29:01 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 04:32:33 am
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 04:40:51 am
"Then... then I'll do my best, Charity."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 20, 2012, 04:48:21 am
Post by: Khenal on February 20, 2012, 04:51:58 am
I give a small smile, hoping to hide my unease at being promoted.
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 04:53:58 am
Post by: Telgin on February 20, 2012, 03:56:50 pm
Falcata sits in silence as she watches the conversation unfold, feeling only the reassuring rub of her husband's hoof on her back.
She'd made it a point to avoid going anywhere private where she might see or hear things she didn't want to, but when she stumbled across Charity visiting Khenal, the curiosity got the best of her. She'd lost track of Otik since the night before, after she and Estoc had done the best they could to calm her down. Being dead was very hard on her, as it reasonably would be for just about anypony. Estoc was here for her, but Otik didn't have anypony. For that matter, she felt terrible for not being with Otik right now, wherever she was.
"Well... it looks like they're handling this reasonably well," Estoc says as he watches along.
"Yeah..." After Otik had calmed down the night before, she and Estoc had had a long talk. He'd been following her since the moment he died, and had been there with her, unseen, for every hardship she or Kris had been through. For six years he'd been following her, unwilling to move on to his eternal reward until she could join him. But she wasn't ready to leave yet. She couldn't go until she knew her friends and daughter would be okay without her. Not that there was much she could do... but it would give her a lot of peace of mind. Estoc readily agreed, concerned as he was for their daughter himself.
Lady Charity seemed to be taking it about as well as she expected. Her sudden passing had shocked the duchess and left her in a bad position. She was probably a little upset, but she was doing well. That was good. And she was back to business as usual, promoting the pony she felt best to take her position. Lord Cryptson was unchanged, as far as she could tell, which was of no surprise.
Khenal seemed to be handling it well too. Perhaps their time spent together in combat had toughened him a bit in that respect. You had to expect that your comrades at arms might die. She'd have probably been crushed by his passing, but then her emotions ran all over her these days. Khenal was a lot stronger than her, and he was handling it well. That was good. She didn't have to worry about him.
Friesden was a surprise. As easily as she got upset by things, she'd been terrified that Friesden would have been inconsolable at the simultaneous loss of herself and Friesden's adoptive mother. But she seemed to be handling this amazingly well. A hint of sadness wells up within her at the thought that even Friesden didn't seem to be all that upset at her loss, but something seemed off. There had been at least a hint of unhappiness in Charity's voice, but Friesden seemed to be unfazed. If nothing else, she was sure that Otik's death should have hit her hard.
She sighs, and Estoc gives her another reassuring rub.
"At least I don't think I've got to worry about Friesden... I was concerned she might hurt herself after Otik died... but she seems fine."
Estoc pulls her closer and gives her a gentle nuzzle. "They're hurting more than they show... but I think you're right." He sighs himself. "Let's go see if we can find Kris and see how she's doing. Hopefully she's taking this as well as the others."
"I hope..."
She worried most about Kris of course. They also needed to find Otik. Those still alive seemed to be handling this a lot better than she would have in their position, but Otik had taken this horribly. She wasn't sure if Friesden taking this well would be a good or bad thing to Otik. But she needed to know. Maybe they would be able to convince Otik to move on with them.
Post by: Dsarker on February 20, 2012, 09:36:53 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 12:41:28 am
She lets out a sigh and steps closer to Friesden, trying to read her face for any hints of emotion.
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 12:45:52 am
"Friesden? I'm going to take a quick break, I need to check on something."
She looks directly at Falcata this time, and slightly nods her head to the door before leaving through it.
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 12:47:11 am
Friesden doesn't seem to show any emotion at this.
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 12:51:52 am
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 12:55:27 am
*You've noticed the change in her also, Colonel Falcata?*
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 12:58:21 am
"Venture... you... you can see me?"
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 01:02:45 am
*Yes, I can. It's a... gift, I suppose...*
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 01:07:23 am
Falcata swallows hard. This was an opportunity she couldn't have expected... she'd be able to talk to everypony through Venture! She'd be able to set things straight... and so could Otik!
"But, yes... I've noticed something is wrong with her... she seems to be handling the death of her mother... differently... than I expected."
As she speaks, Estoc enters the room with Otik in tow. "Falcata, there you are. I was wondering where you'd gotten off to." He looks around and sees only Venture in the room. "What are you doing in here? How is Friesden?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 21, 2012, 01:32:33 am
"H-Hey, Falcata. Starkey's... doin' alright, I s'pose."
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 01:37:40 am
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 01:41:18 am
*Captain Otik. No, Falcata, she hasn't said anything, which is the troubling part. She's being unusual in her lack of reaction.*
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 01:54:30 am
Estoc's eyes snap open and his jaw drops as he realizes what's going on. He looks at Venture. "You... you can see us? And talk to us?"
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 02:14:22 am
*Yes, I can. I'm sorry to have ignored you all this time. I try not to interfere usually, but I had to talk to Falcata.*
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 02:27:53 am
"I... understand..." he says at last.
Falcata looks to him with a small frown before looking to Otik. "I think we need to talk to her... but I don't know what to say..."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 21, 2012, 03:01:59 am
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 03:12:40 am
Venture returns to the main room of the hospital.
"Friesden? May I cast a spell on you? I think it might help you."
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 03:18:19 am
Post by: Khenal on February 21, 2012, 03:24:39 am
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 03:27:28 am
Falcata nods and reluctantly leaves him, stepping through the wall into the main hospital again. She sees Friesden working away at something, not looking in her direction. "Friesden?" she calls, unsure of quite what to say or do. There was no response. "Friesden, can you hear me?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 03:29:20 am
"What?"
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 03:37:15 am
That was smooth. But what were you supposed to tell one of your best friends who knew you were dead?
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 03:43:32 am
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 03:48:01 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 03:48:48 am
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 03:57:36 am
"Friesden... it's really me. Do you remember what you told me that day?" She points off a bit to a spot next to a bed where Khenal had been placed the day she gave him a concussion. "Right there, when you told me something I'd have never believed. When you told me not only had you saved my life, but I'd saved yours as well? Just by accepting your gift, and showing you how much you meant?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 03:59:31 am
She throws her forelegs around her and hugs her tight.
Post by: Telgin on February 21, 2012, 04:04:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 04:07:42 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 21, 2012, 04:12:01 am
"F-Fri?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 21, 2012, 04:12:59 am
Friesden runs up to her and kisses her.
"You're back, you're back, you're back!"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 22, 2012, 03:55:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 22, 2012, 03:57:24 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 22, 2012, 04:00:13 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 22, 2012, 04:03:21 am
Post by: Telgin on February 22, 2012, 02:11:55 pm
That struck home. What were they going to do now? She was torn on what she wanted to do. Before she knew she could potentially talk to everypony, she just wanted to make sure they would all be alright. Then she'd go face whatever there was for her in the afterlife. She wasn't sure she could stand the thought of watching something terrible happen to her friends or family and be powerless to help them. Estoc had always been a solid and stoic stallion, but it was amazing that even he could have withstood everything she and Kris must have put him through.
That had been an emotional conversation. The two of them had cried into each others' manes for what felt like hours. He'd seen everything that she'd done and been through. Every night she spent in jail. When she killed Slim Pickings. When she murdered Lifty and Shifty. When she was banished here. The night she nearly took her own life on the tower. The forgotten beast that had given her the terminal stomach decay. Every night she'd spent alone crying about that. When Friesden saved her life. When Kris was hurt in the woods with Lilac. When she was nearly taken away by the diomedians. When Couth Darkmane had nearly killed her by protecting Charity. Her promotion. Courting Heiro. Getting engaged to Heiro. And finally the forgotten beast that did kill her. He'd been right beside her every step of the way.
In the five years she spent married with him, she'd never seen him cry so much. Not even the day his brother died. He'd gone on to tell her just how tormenting it was to watch her go through all of this alone, knowing he couldn't help her. The thought of being reunited with her was the only thing that had kept him going all of these years.
She wasn't that strong. She'd have lost her mind long, long before now. And he made it no small secret to her that he was ready to go on. He didn't want to watch her suffer any more, and even though she was dead now and could never feel physical pain again... if something terrible happened to Kris... or Heiro, Friesden, Khenal, or even Charity, Cryptson or Starkey, she didn't know if she could take it.
She didn't want to stay. She couldn't. She wanted to be here for Kris, especially, and all of her friends, but she was weary. Estoc had weathered six years of this alone, but she wouldn't be able to. She thought about staying until Kris finally was able to join them, but if that happened violently, as it likely would... she just couldn't take that. Estoc agreed. He didn't want to see her suffer any more either. And even if Kris by some miracle managed to live on to an elderly age without getting seriously hurt or killed, could she stand to go on in this half-existence for decades? Even with her husband and friend?
One day they would be together again. If Luna spared her soul and let her past the gates, they would all be together again one day. When it wouldn't matter any more. Where they would never feel pain again, and never have to cry again. But today wasn't that day. Today, she just felt like crying all over again. How could she leave now? She couldn't leave Friesden behind... it would crush her now. And she knew Otik wasn't going to want to leave, and she couldn't leave her to the fate Estoc had endured for so long.
Her ears droop as she tries to keep her face steady. What was she going to do? She realizes something that drives a spike through her heart. There wasn't an answer that kept everypony happy. She could stay behind with Otik, but she couldn't possibly ask Venture to be burdened with the task of relaying everything she wanted to tell her friends and family. That would keep Friesden, Kris, Otik and Heiro happy. But she and Estoc would have to go on like this for so long... maybe forever, if Kris joined them to look after her own possible descendants... and Venture surely wouldn't like it. And what if something happened to her?
Or she could leave them. Friesden would be sad. Maybe if Kris never knew she could even talk to her, she'd be alright, but Friesden would probably tell her. Then she'd want to know why she hadn't stayed behind with her. Or Heiro... what would he think? And if she did talk to Kris or Heiro before leaving... they'd want her to stay. She'd want to stay. But she couldn't... she just couldn't do it...
Celestia help her, she wanted to be selfish. Just this once. She'd given so much to try and keep everypony else happy while she was alive, why couldn't she ask that of them, this one time?
Because she couldn't. She didn't have the spine to stand up for what she wanted. She never had, and never would. Already she felt a hollow gnawing feeling within her. The sort she got when she knew she was going to agree to do something to keep everypony but her happy, possibly for a long time. A very, very long time...
Maybe at least everypony else would be happy. That was all that mattered.
Post by: Telgin on February 23, 2012, 02:27:23 am
Inside Falcata's home, buried deep under long forgotten sheets, clothes and other things of no consequence, a magical chest unlocks. Falcata's passing from the world has broken the spell holding it shut, and it slowly opens, revealing a stack of neatly arranged letters. The letters gently float from the chest before vanishing into the air, appearing throughout the fort.
The next time Charity enters her office, she finds a stack of letters sitting on the desk, topped by one using stationary that hasn't been used except by the fortress guard from years ago. The letter is addressed to her, dated for 12th Sandstone, 99. Inside, the letter reads:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Beneath the letter is exactly as Falcata wrote: dozens of letters addressed to ponies in Coupledye. Dated for every month from Falcata's arrival in Glitterglen until the last month of her life.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 23, 2012, 03:05:42 am
Charity's eyes drift across the room to Falcata's hammer, sitting on the shelf, still dirty with blood and mud from it's last battle. Suddenly Charity knows what she must do.
Charity grasps the hammer and cleans and shines it to a gleaming polish, as bright as the day Ironya crafted it in the flames of the magma sea. She couldn't see the word Loyalty anywhere upon it. Hadn't Khenal said it had appeared on her weapon? 'Strange that it has vanished as quick as it came.'
When finished she made her way across the hall to Falcata's old home, where Kris still lived. The room was empty so, she unlocked the door and went inside. On Kris's bed she lay the hammer and a scroll. The letter read as follows.
Spoiler: To Kris (click to show/hide)
Post by: Telgin on February 23, 2012, 02:00:06 pm
Oh, and no idea if there's a separate bed for each of Khenal and Friesden, but that's what I'm going with.))
In Khenal and Friesden's room, there is a faint crackle of displaced air as two letters appear. The letters slowly drift down onto each pony's bed.
The letter to Khenal is dated for 1st Sandstone, 99, and reads:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The letter to Friesden is dated for 3rd Sandstone, 99, and reads:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
*****
Kris slowly trudges up to the door to her... no, her mother's home. Lady Charity had gifted it to her mother for her selflessness, but now that she was gone Kris no longer had any claim to it. She wasn't sure she wanted to live there now anyway. She'd spent the last night in the hospital because she didn't think she could stand to sleep in the room without her mom being there. But she had to come and sort her things out eventually. She sighs. Might as well be now. She'd go speak with the duchess later about having her things moved to wherever she ended up next.
With significant effort she manages to soldier on and open the door, finding the room as empty as she expected. Nothing had moved since the previous morning when she said goodbye to her mom to head off to her combat drills with Grandpa Starkey. Her mom's bed was just like she'd left it. The sheets were slightly unsettled but mostly in order, just like they were every morning after her mom dragged herself out of bed. Everything of her mother's laid about as if nothing had happened. As if she would return that night like she always had, to gently hang her weapons and armor on their stands before she stretched out on her bed for a few minutes. Then they would go get something to eat and talk about their days, maybe talk to her new dad, maybe not. Then they would come back home, and before long they'd be in bed.
Her eyes stay fixed on her mother's bed. Tears begin to well up from within her, and she looks away. She didn't want to have to feel this much pain every time she came home. Maybe it would be for the best that she had to move. Maybe then she'd forget about her mom. A new burst of tears fall from her cheeks at the thought. How horrible. She never wanted to forget her mom. She couldn't have asked for a better mother. Her mother had loved her so much... even the times she'd done such hurtful things to her mom like following Lilac into the woods... her mom always just hugged her and told her how upset it had made her, but that no matter what she would always love her.
Kris steps over to her own bed, head low and eyes on the floor. What was she going to do? Maybe Lady Charity would let her keep something of her mother's to remember her by. But what? She collapses onto her bed and buries her face in the pillow, not wanting to really think about anything right now. She would just lay there until somepony came by and told her she had to leave. She didn't want to go... she didn't want to forget her mom.
Then something heavy and metallic slides across the sheets to the dip she formed and bumps into her. She looks up to see her mother's magnificent silver hammer lying next to her on the bed, adjacent to a scroll with the ornate seal of Charity's personal stationary. Hesitantly, she takes the scroll and opens it up. The tears that had soaked her pillow return to her eyes as she reads the scroll. She carefully rolls the parchment back up and seals it before taking her mother's hammer in her magic. For what felt like hours she stares at her reflection in the gleaming silver surface... yes. Yes... this hammer meant so much to her mother... to have it...
She stands from the bed and replaces her own hammer with her mother's. Her eyes track around the room for some time, picking out everything. This was all hers now. She didn't have to forget her mom. Every day when she returned home she would remember her, and all the good times they had together.
With a bit more energy, Kris makes for the doorway. She had to find Lady Charity and thank her properly for such a wonderful gift. There was nothing more she could have asked for.
As she leaves, a magical letter reappears in the room, nestling on her bed.
((Kris gets to read her letter later, when it'll have even more emotional impact on her, hehe))
Post by: Impending Doom on February 23, 2012, 04:34:21 pm
Otik looks away, keeping her hold on Friesden.
"Friesden, I'm not back. I'm still... But I willnae leave ye! I willnae move on, I'll stay here an' be with ye, even if ye cannae see me all th' time..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 23, 2012, 04:56:11 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on February 23, 2012, 08:04:31 pm
"Aye, I'll be here. I'll a-always be here..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 23, 2012, 08:07:06 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 12:03:44 am
'Am... Am I finally starting to... atone?'
I shake my head, trying to dislodge the thought.
'No, I can't atone for the Asylum! How can she think I'm a "good example of a pony" with all the harm I've caused?'
I hang my head and sigh.
'She's the good pony... maybe I'm on the right track now? But that doesn't mean I cant fall off... can't fall down that slippery slope again, can't let the Asylum happen again.'
I read the letter one more time, a few tears falling as I finish it again.
'I'll try to be that good pony, Falcata...'
I carefully put away my letter, and look at the 2nd one, noticing it's addressed to Friesden. I carefully levitate it with me as I head to the hospital. Maybe Falcata's letter to her will help her through this...
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 12:22:32 am
Her train of thought is interrupted by Khenal entering the hospital. This was about to get very, very interesting... then something catches her eye. A letter. Why did it look familiar?
Her jaw drops as she realizes where it came from. No... she'd forgotten about them... and now... now everypony...
*****
Not long after Khenal and Friesden's letters arrived at their recipients' home, there is a faint pop of displaced air in Starkey and Otik's cabin as another letter materializes in the air. A letter slowly drifts down to land on Starkey. The letter is dated for 7th Sandstone, 99, and reads:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 01:05:56 am
"Uh..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 01:07:49 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 24, 2012, 01:19:54 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 01:20:59 am
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 01:25:21 am
"Um, no, actually."
Venture smiles and approaches me, her horn glowing a deep purple.
"Khenal, may I expand your awareness?"
"Um... ok?"
Otik fades into view as the spell is completed, and my eyes widen in surprise.
"Otik...?"
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 01:32:25 am
Then Venture casts her spell on Khenal. He could see her now, and it was too late to run. What was she going to say now? Had he read his letter yet? Friesden hadn't read hers yet... she was probably going to read it right here in front of everypony... what had she written anyway?
Post by: Impending Doom on February 24, 2012, 01:33:15 am
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 01:40:49 am
My gaze shifts to Friesden as I levitate the letter for her to take.
"Um, Falcata wrote us each a letter, Friesden. This one is yours."
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 07:15:58 am
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 09:35:46 am
Her eyes settle on the letter Friesden just read before drifting back up to Khenal. "I... suppose you've read yours already?"
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 01:38:18 pm
I approach and hug her and Friesden, trying to fight back the tide of emotions.
"I... I guess I should start with 'Thank you'."
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 02:10:38 pm
She forms a small smile and says, "Oh... um, you're welcome. It's been so long now, I'd forgotten about them altogether. I barely even remember what I wrote..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 05:21:08 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 24, 2012, 05:58:37 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 24, 2012, 06:13:21 pm
Charity is in charge, Dutchess right now, I think. She's a unicorn. Starkey is the resident bad-flank with an axe and is in charge of the military. Otik (recently deceased) was his love and is currently doing a small bit of haunting to help her friends. They both are pegasi. Falcata (also recently deceased) was captain of the Ducal guard until she got killed by a Forgotten Beast. She's another unicorn. Friesden is the resident surgeon and has a lot of depression stemming from a very bad foalhood. Friesden is also Khenal's love and she's a pegasus. Khenal is an alicorn and has had a fairly complicated past as well. He's also hopelessly in love with Friesden.
There's a lot of stuff I'm leaving out, but there's a basic view.))
Post by: Flying Dice on February 24, 2012, 06:26:25 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 06:28:31 pm
Ninjaed: Yeah, the last 60-80 pages ought to give a decent idea of what's going on right now at least.))
Falcata gives Friesden a concerned glance. Surely she didn't mean... "Join me... Friesden, what do you mean?" Best not to put that thought into her head on the off chance she was talking about something else.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 24, 2012, 07:07:59 pm
((I've been considering joining this for a while, possibly as [50. Female unicorn ranger/markspony] under the name Traphe. Before I do so, though, I'd like to get a feeling for the history and relations of the fortress. Any suggestions of whereabouts to start, apart from "read the whole thing"? :))))
Welcome to the herd. I looked at our unicorn ranger/markspony mare, and she has no friends or relatives in the fort, and is a member of the Fortress Guard, and has been since she immigrated here and was drafted to serve under then Captain of the Guard Khenal. She's a master markspony and expert archer. A good choice I'd say, if you want her.
If you want a good idea of the fort I'd suggest reading the first 5 to 10 pages in addition to the last 60-80. They will probably take you a while as that was before all the RP started so they are nearly all Journal entries, but they introduce a lot of the characters. The RP doesn't take off until sometime around page 10.
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 08:55:52 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 09:01:50 pm
Her eyes snap open. She wasn't really surprised, but somehow the expression forced itself onto her face anyway. Quickly she shakes her head and squeezes Friesden in the group hug. "No, no, no... Friesden, please... that's the last thing I'd want you to do. I need you to stay here with everypony who's left."
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 09:11:02 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 09:24:31 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 24, 2012, 09:28:04 pm
((I've been considering joining this for a while, possibly as [50. Female unicorn ranger/markspony] under the name Traphe. Before I do so, though, I'd like to get a feeling for the history and relations of the fortress. Any suggestions of whereabouts to start, apart from "read the whole thing"? :))))
Welcome to the herd. I looked at our unicorn ranger/markspony mare, and she has no friends or relatives in the fort, and is a member of the Fortress Guard, and has been since she immigrated here and was drafted to serve under then Captain of the Guard Khenal. She's a master markspony and expert archer. A good choice I'd say, if you want her.
If you want a good idea of the fort I'd suggest reading the first 5 to 10 pages in addition to the last 60-80. They will probably take you a while as that was before all the RP started so they are nearly all Journal entries, but they introduce a lot of the characters. The RP doesn't take off until sometime around page 10.
((Okay, I'll give the initial journal entries a read as well. I've just finished with the most recent ~300 posts, or everything from the initial wedding plans till now. Basically just looking for a place to start RPing from.))
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 09:43:42 pm
"But...Are you sure? I don't want you to be alone..."
Post by: Flying Dice on February 24, 2012, 10:03:39 pm
Sisters, I know I've never been close to anyone here. Sure, I was relieved to get out of prison, even if only for a colony in the middle of this jungle, but even after all these years, I can't say that I've made any friends. Perhaps that's for the best, seeing what that lot in the hospital were like after the survivors brought back word of what happened.
Maybe it's wrong, but even with all the time I've spend in these halls, I still feel like a stranger, I still feel more at home out there, patrolling the jungle, nothing but my crossbow to rely on. So be it, now isn't the time for weakness.
But... Is friendship weakness? Love?
With a sigh, she slings her crossbow on her back, heading for the stairs.
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 10:50:01 pm
After a moment the stallion steps through the wall into the room. He looks to Khenal before his eyes meet Falcata's. "What is it?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 10:54:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 11:01:43 pm
Falcata nods. "Yes... we met again yesterday after... well, you know..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 11:06:45 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 24, 2012, 11:14:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 24, 2012, 11:44:08 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 25, 2012, 12:02:00 am
She nods weakly. "I... oh, this sounds terrible... but I didn't really believe... that after you died that... I mean... I never thought I'd see him again." She looks off aimlessly. "I was lonely... and Heiro was so supportive. He was in love with me, and after he saved Kris... I... I..." She idly leans her head against Estoc's neck and mutters something under her breath.
"It's alright..." Estoc assures her.
Post by: Dsarker on February 25, 2012, 12:09:34 am
Post by: Telgin on February 25, 2012, 12:19:30 am
Eventually, she nods. "Yes, I do."
She feels Estoc's rubbing pause momentarily as she responds, but it resumes immediately.
Post by: Dsarker on February 25, 2012, 12:27:46 am
Post by: Impending Doom on February 25, 2012, 01:06:37 am
"No, Fri... dunnae say that. None o' us here is any better than you."
Post by: Flying Dice on February 25, 2012, 02:46:57 am
Post by: Telgin on February 25, 2012, 01:11:26 pm
Falcata shakes her head. "No, Friesden, none of us deserve life more than any of the others." Although, truth be told she'd probably committed worse crimes than Friesden, having killed several ponies while she was quite sane. No need to bring that up. "You all mean the world to me. And we'll all be together again one day."
((Just realized that we're kind of already speaking as if Falcata has told everypony she wasn't hanging around. I don't know if that's already happened... what with Otik not wanting to be alone.))
Post by: Flying Dice on February 25, 2012, 03:20:35 pm
Journal: [Date is smeared and scratched out]
Ah, what does it matter? I've been here too long for the month or year to have much bearing on my life. Things are still uncertain, after the losses in the caverns. Perhaps... if I had been down there, hunting or patrolling, maybe I would have noticed that beast and been able to bring warning back in time. Even if I didn't really know any of them, it's bad business losing that many soldiers. Maybe I should request permission to start hunting in the caverns instead of topside.
Saw two new faces when I came inside, though one seemed vaguely familiar.
Post by: Dsarker on February 25, 2012, 03:56:37 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 25, 2012, 04:34:10 pm
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Traphe.png
Her previous name was Istbar and she was mentioned exactly once before, when she killed the forgotten beast that gave Falcata stomach rot with a single bolt to the brain.
No other notable kills, but 11 animals, including a badger pony and an elephant pony.
Also, I was apparently looking at the wrong pony last time. Sorry. In game she does actually have two friends, but they are just a couple of foals, so I don't think they really count. But they are both Captain Isos's foals if it matters at all. As far as getting your character involved that shouldn't be much of a problem. We can work something out for once the current scene if finished. We have an IRC channel set up that we use to discuss the future of the fort among other things, Themaster posted the link a long time back, but I'll provide it here again for your convenience. http://mibbit.com/?channel=%23Glitterglen&server=irc.mibbit.net
Let me know if the link doesn't work or anything.))
Post by: Flying Dice on February 25, 2012, 04:49:43 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 26, 2012, 12:25:02 am
A crumpled letter, barring the royal seal of Princess Hugwax rests on the floor near the door.
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 12:40:44 am
When she steps inside, she sees Charity busying herself on one of her projects. She didn't want to startle her, so she taps against the wall gently to get her attention. "Lady Charity?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 26, 2012, 12:44:24 am
Charity walks over to Kris. "How may help you?"
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 12:59:43 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 26, 2012, 01:06:29 am
"You are very welcome Kris. Your mother, she was my best friend friend in all the world, and she loved you very much...It...It was the least I could do. It's what your mother would have wanted. I know we haven't really spoken much before now, but I want you to know, my door is always open to you, just because she's gone, I don't want you to be like a stranger."
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 01:19:56 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 26, 2012, 01:26:04 am
"Kris, Cryptson and I would...we would be honored, if you could think of us as your family now. We could never replace Falcata, but both of us, we do care about you."
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 01:37:10 am
Faint traces of tears form in her eyes as she gives Charity another small hug. "Th-thank you... I don't know what to say..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 26, 2012, 01:47:08 am
After a moment Kris and Charity exchange goodbyes and Kris leaves Charity to get back to work. Charity's smile however only lasts until her eyes spot the crumpled letter on the floor. She sighs audibly, and levitates the letter into her waste pile, before returning to work.
((End Scene))
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 03:03:26 am
Estoc nods and adds, "Yes... shall we say goodbye to Kris?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 26, 2012, 03:06:35 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 03:08:54 am
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 03:16:22 am
She nods. "Yes, I should go tell him goodbye too. I... suppose Venture will need to help with that?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 03:18:20 am
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 03:19:40 am
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 03:24:38 am
Venture nods, then gives Friesden a small smile.
"Yes, the hospital really does need to have somepony on duty at all times. I just took my break, it's your turn, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 03:29:46 am
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 03:42:05 am
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 03:50:49 am
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 03:57:27 am
"Heiro? Are you in? Um, somepony needs to see you, and I need to cast something on you as well. Very minor, but I think it might help you a lot."
Post by: Impending Doom on February 26, 2012, 03:59:36 am
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 04:02:20 am
there's a moment of silence. then the sound of the door unlocking.
his head pokes out of the door.
"Actually, come in. I need to ask you something."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 04:07:55 am
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 04:12:41 am
"Alright, Sister. Let's see whatever you have up your sleeve."
He motions everypony in.
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 04:15:00 am
"I swear to you, Heiro, this only expands your awareness. Everything you see is real."
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 04:26:45 am
"will this spell bring Falcata back? no, it won't. just go."
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 04:31:57 am
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 04:41:40 am
"Falcata" he inhaled.
"oh, why you. why, Luna, Did you have to be so goddamned Brave?"
He falls into her mane and cries.
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 04:50:57 am
She gives him a small squeeze in the hug and adds, "Your mom is here too, would you like to speak to her?"
Post by: Impending Doom on February 26, 2012, 04:52:34 am
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 04:57:13 am
He wraps around the both of them, elated.
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 03:30:55 pm
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 09:16:59 pm
Hiero pulls back, obviously hurt. "Goodbye? Is that all? no epiphany? no life-affirming catharsis? a few parting words of wisdom? just- just a Goodbye?"
"How about a 'I Love you, Hiero, always and forever.', just a once?"
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 10:01:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:06:18 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 10:10:56 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:13:29 pm
"I never do anything right. If I was dead everypony would be better off. I should die."
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 10:17:19 pm
Falcata listens to Friesden and immediately moves to hug her. "Why? Why do you think anypony would be better off if you were dead?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:18:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 10:19:05 pm
"Falcata is right, Friesden. Nopony would be better off if you died."
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 10:21:48 pm
"Did someone else die?" he asked
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:26:17 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 10:30:06 pm
Falcata raises an eyebrow. "Friesden... Estoc isn't mad at anypony, and you being here hasn't made anypony sad..."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:31:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 10:37:14 pm
"Living is not being selfish, Friesden. Your death wouldn't have fixed anything, and will not fix anything now or ever."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 10:40:13 pm
Post by: DVNO on February 26, 2012, 10:49:03 pm
He looks at his friends trying to calm Friesden down. now was'nt the time to start a tantrum spiral.
"Just keep her, safe. Keep her happy." he said to him as he moved in to comfort Friesden.
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 11:02:35 pm
Falcata sits silently next to Friesden for a few moments beneath Khenal's wing. "Friesden... we're all better for having you in our lives. None of this is your fault. Don't ever think we'd be better off without you."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 11:06:31 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 11:16:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 11:33:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 26, 2012, 11:34:39 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 26, 2012, 11:37:16 pm
"Really."
Post by: Dsarker on February 26, 2012, 11:46:22 pm
Post by: DVNO on February 27, 2012, 10:53:31 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Hiero puts others above himself once again and hugs Friesden silently.
Post by: Dsarker on February 27, 2012, 11:22:10 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 28, 2012, 12:10:40 am
"Friesden, how about I stay until the wedding? How does that sound to you two?"
Estoc frowns slightly at the thought. Hopefully the wedding was soon. They might not have much time left to ascend... but for Falcata he'd do anything.
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 12:14:59 am
Post by: Telgin on February 28, 2012, 12:23:43 am
It was her wedding with Heiro that had been putting it off in the first place. She realized that bringing up the wedding with Heiro nearby might not have been the best course of action, but it was too late for that.
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 01:01:12 am
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 01:03:51 am
"I can't wait either."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on February 28, 2012, 04:56:24 pm
Charity's Journal 1st Malachite, 101
I've ordered four new tombs to be dug out in the hallway leading to the one for my family. The one closest to mine on the right, I will be giving to Falcata, when it's finished we'll move her bones there for her final rest. The other across the hall from that, I'm going to offer it to Khenal, in case the worst should happen to him in the line of duty. The other two are for now, unknown.
Addendum: I was in my workshop earlier when Kris came by. She thanked me for gifting her the room and the hammer, and she told me she would be staying. Adamant will be happy to hear that, as will Cryptson, he really cared about Miss Falcata though he wouldn't say it, and he'll be glad that her daughter will be staying nearby. I asked her to try and think of Crypt and myself as her family now. Even if she and Adamant don't get married one day, as Falcata's daughter, I do care about her, and she's such a sweet
Charity's Journal 3rd Malachite, 101
I wrote a letter to Falcata's family, explaining how she died in the defense of us all. How her death might have saved the lives of over a hundred ponies. I also told them that Kris is well and has decided to stay here with us. I also sent a small package containing all the letters that Falcata wrote to them, I will send it with the next messenger.
Charity's Journal 14th Malachite, 101
Peytrel is out of the hospital. He can't walk without a crutch, what with his left rear leg being so smashed, but he says he can breath much better now. Thanks all to Friesden and his little sister Venture, for their tireless work over the past 3 weeks. Doctor Bubbles and Friesden are sure that he will recover nearly fully in time. Although he still looks really pale to me.
Charity's Journal 24th Malachite, 101
Kris took another turn in the arena today. If Falcata was here to see her she would have been proud. The way she wielded Falcata's Loyalty was a pleasure to watch. She was fighting a cave fish woman and an olm man we caught in the caverns. They didn't even touch her.
2nd Galena, 101
An earthpony planter, had an earthpony filly.
9th Galena, 101
A earthpony glazer has given birth to a little unicorn colt today.
Charity's Journal 12th Galena, 101
Today we moved Falcata's bones to their final resting place in her tomb. The coffin is made of beautiful clear glass and the smoothed and engraved marble walls tell the history of Glitterglen. We also surrounded her with statues of her friends made of solid steel.
It wasn't much of a ceremony. Falcata deserved more, but we've all cried it out months ago. Just a few friends were there. Prayers for the dead were recited and we all said some words. Kris stayed behind for a long time after we left.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Falcata%27s%20Tomb.png)
Kris, wasn't doing so well and went to the arena afterwords, the foolish filly thought she could take on a full size Elephant pony by herself. But after she got a hoof to the chest and guts and her tail bone crushed with only getting it with two glancing blows she collapsed in pain, and blacked out. At that point thankfully, Kussad (Spearpony in the militia) and Akath (from the Skyguard) lept in to save her, together they put it down easy. Kris is paying the doctors a visit now. Friesden is looking her over, she's pretty sure Kris will be alright. She is very lucky. It could have been a lot worse for her.
14th Galena, 101
The caravan from the zebra has arrived, and is currently setting up shop in the depot. Adamant is heading out right now to speak with the merchants on the behalf of Glitterglen.
19th Galena, 101
Finalized trade deal with the Zebra. Nothing much to say. Traded our silks for their metal, cloth, leather, drink, sand, and some empty sacks. Also, I sent a gift to the Zebra ruler, a figurine of Falcata killing a diomedian carved out of zebra hoof, I hope that will send a message that we aren't going to stand for another attack like the one two years ago.
20th, Galena, 101
To long has the main walkway into the main staircase been made of cobbled schist. It's time for a change, the old stone is being removed and we are repaving it with marble blocks.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Marble%20Road.png)
Meanwhile, as per my instructions from the capital, we are working to create a system of roads in the jungle. We are making four Colbatite paths that lead away from Glitterglen, one north, one south, one east, and one west. We have been preparing for this project for a while, but haven't really gotten anywhere with it until now. Although, I don't think we will have enough blocks for the whole job, I'll let Pillomino know she needs to make some more. The fortress guard is watching over the workers, but they can't watch everything without spreading themselves to thin, so Captain Ramol and his stallions are assisting.
22nd Galena, 101
Venture's younger brother Daringsky was hunting in the caverns today, and ran afoul of the Reptilemen that recently moved in there. He fought them off but took a minor cut to his rear right leg, and a nasty hit to the head. He's being looked over by Doctor Bubbles right now. He should be fine. But I've talked to Commander Starkey and he's volunteered to take his squad down to deal with the surviving reptiles.
26th Galena, 101
Starkey and his squad have returned from there venture into the caverns, the reports say that they found the Reptileman villiage, and that they have been eliminated, except for one very injured reptile woman that dove into the water, and wasn't seen again.
27th Galena, 101
A fisherpony has reported that a tribe of Olmmen have moved into the place of the Reptilemen we just fought off. I will consult my military leaders to decide if we should remove them in the same way.
30th Galena, 101
We have exaughted our stock of Cobaltite blocks for the road project, but significant progress was made on the east, and west roads, and south has been started, the north road however is all but finished. It reaches the full length but the lower part may need to be expanded to accomodate larger wagons, however nopony should be coming from the north as we are farther north than any of the old capitals so that is of low priority.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/The%20North%20Road.png)
11th Limestone, 101
The military decided to deal with the Olmmen preemptively. Starkey lead the charge and if the reports are to be believed he slaughtered the whole tribe before his fellows even reached the fight.
14th Limestone, 101
A very wounded Reptile woman (we suspect it to be the one that escaped from the last battle against them.) wandered up to the fort entrance this afternoon, but it was mauled by the grizzly bears we keep chained there, they seemed happy to have a new chew toy. Though they seemed reluctant to kill the thing, Daring Sky wandered by later and felt sorry for the thing and put a few bolts into it, until it stopped moving. I think he was happy to get a little payback.
22nd Limestone, 101
Khenal took a turn in the arena, fighting an injured Elephant Pony. It was really hurt before getting caught in a cage and our butchers couldn't get close to it as it was, and it wouldn't have survived being let go, so Khenal volunteered to put it out of it's misery. The butchers will be processing the body soon enough.
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 06:19:57 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 06:23:05 pm
"Oh, hello, sir. And to you as well, Friesden. Congratulations to the both of you!"
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 06:27:55 pm
"Friesden, do you remember Traphe? Lets see if we can join her for some breakfast. Traphe? May we dine with you?"
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 06:29:24 pm
Traphe gestures to the open bench across the table from her.
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 06:34:41 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 06:42:54 pm
Traphe glances away briefly. She seems to be a bit uncomfortable.
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 07:00:12 pm
"I just wanted to catch up, Traphe. It's been a long time since we got to talk."
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 07:03:55 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 07:06:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 07:09:52 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 07:12:13 pm
Traphe smiles slightly.
"Oh, no. At least, not any more than the rest of the squad. But I enjoy being off by myself. The quiet is sort of relaxing. And if I can help keep watch or bring in food while I'm doing that, why not?"
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 07:22:41 pm
'Well, Charity did say she wanted the Ducal Guard expanded...'
"Would you consider changing squads, Traphe?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 07:27:22 pm
Friesden turns to Khenal as he speaks, and a tear falls from her eye as she remembers Falcata.
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 07:37:16 pm
Traphe starts to reach out to Friesden, but draws her hoof back, hesitant.
"Uh, I guess I could, Khenal, if I need to. Where did you want to move me?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 07:47:25 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 08:02:39 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 08:12:09 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 08:15:34 pm
Traphe leans across the table and gives Friesden a quick hug.
"Now what was that about a transfer, Khenal?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 08:18:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 08:19:09 pm
"Well, Charity would like me to expand the Ducal Guard, and I think you would be a good addition."
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 08:34:27 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 08:51:28 pm
Traphe smiles, slightly wider than before.
'Oh, I hope this works out. I'll need to train harder, to make sure I don't let anyone down. Most of all, my... yes, my friends.'
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 10:21:34 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 10:23:54 pm
"Um. Hello? Hello, Khenal?"
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:07:44 pm
"Hello Traphe. You're -hah!- early."
I smile at her.
"Good. Would you please show me how you've improved under Captain Isos?"
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 11:13:02 pm
Traphe unslings her crossbow, cranking the string back with her magic, and places a bolt into the groove. She backs up as far as possible from one of the round, wooden blocks, and fires. The bolt smacks into the innermost circle of paint. She cranks the bow back again, fires. The bolt hits half a hoof from the first. She continues firing until she has run through her entire quiver. A neat cluster of bolts stand out from the middle of the target.
"I-Is that okay? I guess I've had a lot of practice. I've been out hunting a lot, too."
Traphe smiles slightly as she slings her crossbow and walks over to retrieve the bolts.
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:17:23 pm
"Hold on a second please, Traphe. What happens if you run out of bolts in a battle?"
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 11:21:22 pm
Traphe shrugs, blushing a bit.
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:23:08 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 11:24:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:31:56 pm
"Hmm, it doesn't feel very balanced for melee, does it? Though I only have a spear to compare it to... Would you like to try to learn to use your crossbow as a club, or maybe pick up another weapon for melee?"
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 11:36:55 pm
Traphe shudders a bit.
"-sword."
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:43:26 pm
I levitate her crossbow back to her, then step into the sparring area.
Post by: Flying Dice on February 28, 2012, 11:49:54 pm
"Here I come, if you're ready."
She strikes forward along the centerline of her crossbow, a strong blow, but rather hesitant, and not particularly accurate.
Post by: Khenal on February 28, 2012, 11:55:52 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 28, 2012, 11:58:13 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:02:08 am
*Eeep!*
"Friesden!"
Traphe trots over to Friesden, who is sitting down, stunned, eyes spinning.
"O-Oh no! I'm so sorry! Sorry! Are you okay, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:06:12 am
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:08:12 am
Post by: Khenal on February 29, 2012, 12:08:25 am
"Friesden! Oh no, are you alright!?
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:12:59 am
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:18:20 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:22:09 am
Friesden jumps up in a flash...
And falls over in what is the most opposite of a flash.
"Um...Maybe I can't."
Post by: Khenal on February 29, 2012, 12:23:28 am
"Um, yes. I think the hospital would be a good idea."
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:26:49 am
Traphe takes Friesden's right foreleg in her magic and leans it over her shoulder, glancing at Khenal with a slight nod.
"Could you get her from the other side? Um, if you don't mind. I'm not sure if just one of us can carry her."
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:29:12 am
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:41:40 am
Post by: Khenal on February 29, 2012, 12:43:36 am
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:46:52 am
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 12:50:46 am
Traphe's horn glows as she begins to lift Friesden with her magic.
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 12:54:10 am
Post by: Khenal on February 29, 2012, 06:21:05 pm
"Um, thanks for helping, Traphe."
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 06:40:56 pm
Traphe begins to walk toward the door, keeping an eye on Friesden.
Post by: Khenal on February 29, 2012, 06:47:13 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on February 29, 2012, 06:59:45 pm
Post by: Dsarker on February 29, 2012, 08:05:23 pm
Post by: Telgin on February 29, 2012, 11:31:45 pm
The others were gone now. They all had important things to be doing, and she understood. And she wasn't sure she felt like being around anypony else right now anyway. She takes a few steps toward her mother's coffin, to see her body lying peacfully beneath the immaculate glass. The bloody wound on her flank... the blood pouring from her mouth and ears... all of that had been cleaned up. She looked like she was sleeping. Her body would never decay... the spell cast on it had seen to that. She would lay there for as long as Glitterglen existed, visible to all who cared to come look and see for themselves the pony who had stood alone to try and defend the lives of everypony there.
Kris looks away. It was too painful to look at her. That wasn't really her. It was just her body. Her mom was long gone now, surely in a better place where she wouldn't have to worry about things like horrific monsters. Her expression hardens a bit at the thought. Why... why did that monster have to come? Where had it come from? Had somepony created it? Tasked it with coming here to rob ponies of their loved ones? She stamps a hoof and lets out a small noise, something between a whimper and a snort. If only she'd been there with her mom. She wouldn't have to be staring at her dead body. Instead she could be sleeping peacefully back home.
She takes another step toward the coffin and curls up beside it on the floor. Like she had all those years ago beside her mother's hospital bed. Like the day she found out her mom had been hurt. She'd only broken a leg, but it was as if her entire world had crumbled around her. Just knowing her mom was hurt... she'd have never believed that this would have happened. After all she'd come through... why this?
After a moment of letting fresh tears form in her eyes, she pulls out a letter from her saddle bag and reads it again. This would be the eleventh time she'd read it. It wasn't getting any easier to read... but she felt like she had to one more time. Here with her mom. Her eyes slowly work across the words as she reads:
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
She folds the letter and rests her head in her hooves, crying silently. Not the bitter sobbing her mother would surely have let out, like the day she'd nearly been abducted and returned to her safely. Like the tears that had stained the very letter she'd just read. The letter wasn't dated, but she knew it had been written years ago. Long ago when she was sick. She sighs and wipes her eyes, wondering what her mom would have to say to her now if she could. Probably the same thing the last lines of her letter said.
She cranes her neck to look back at her mother's body, lying so silently in the coffin.
"I love you too mom... I always have... and I always will..."
Post by: Telgin on March 01, 2012, 02:04:19 pm
Oh, and you think you've read long posts by me before? Well, going for the record this time, IRC transcriptions aside. TL;DR nothing amazing here, mostly just Kris' perspective on everything that's happened recently.))
Kris' Diary - 12th Granite, 101
Today I told Lady Charity and mom something I've been keeping secret for a little while now. I wanted to join the militia when I was old enough, which I finally am. Mom was pretty shocked, which was no surprise. She worries about me a lot, just like I do for her. But after I was nearly abducted by the diomedians, I knew something had to change or I'd spend the rest of my life a little bundle of nerves.
That and I know there's no room in the hospital for me to work with Ms. Friesden or Dr. Bubbles. So I thought maybe I could put my magic to use on the battlefield. Maybe if somepony gets hurt out there, I can help them with my magic. I think there's probably been a few ponies who might have lived if they had gotten help sooner.
I know it's going to be tough, but I'm ready for it.
9th Slate, 101
Captain Starkey gave me some time in the arena today to try out the combat drills I've been working through. I must admit it was hard for me to attack the parasprites and peafowl that he let loose on me, but I had to suck it up and do what I had to do. If I'm going to have any chance of fighting off a diomedian, I can't be weak.
That and the little things are nastier than they look. I've got a few bruises and cuts where my armor didn't protect me so well. I knew this was going to be difficult, and this hasn't dissuaded me much, but part of me does regret the decision. Maybe there was another way to work past my fears. Or another way to help everypony.
No, I won't go down that path. I'm going to stick with this and make the captain, mom and Lady Charity proud of me. I can do this.
22nd Hematite, 101
I can barely think. I desperately wanted to write something yesterday, but I just didn't have the strength. I barely had the strength to breathe.
Mom died.
23rd Hematite, 101
I thought things might be better today, but it's really only worse. I can't do anything but think about her. Everything I do reminds me of her, and how she won't be coming back. She's gone. The biggest pony in my life, gone forever.
I've cried my heart out a dozen times over in the past two days. Mom and grandma Otik are dead. It just doesn't feel real. But it is. I don't know how I'm going to be able to stand this. I just [words are smudged by tears]
I can't write any more. I just can't.
24th Hematite, 101
I think I've finally calmed down enough to write about this coherently, but I don't know what else to write. I can't express in words how much my mom meant to me. Every time I needed her she was there for me. And the one time she needed me, I wasn't there for her. It tears at my heart every time I think about it.
Dad hasn't been himself since what happened. He lost his mom too, I suppose, in addition to my mom. I really feel alone in this. I know that he still cares about me, and so does grandpa Starkey, but without mom there [tear-smudged lettering again]
I'll get through this. It's going to be tough, but I'll get through it. I do have a little support. Master Adamant was there in the hospital the night mom died. I spent a couple of hours crying on his shoulder, and he just sat there with me the whole time, holding me while I sobbed. He also tried to stand up to those diomedians when they abducted us. He's a strong and brave stallion. I've never really met anypony in Lady Charity's family, and I didn't really know what to think about them. Mom always told me to be on my best behavior around them, as if I wouldn't anyway.
He's a kind pony. Maybe I have a possible friend there. Celestia knows I could use one right now. Lilac was my only friend before this, and she was taken from me too some years back.
I just wish I didn't throw up on him. I've never been so embarrassed in my entire life. Throwing up on somepony who barely knows you, who is as important as he is?
No, I'm not going there. I'll make sure I apologize to him next time I see him. I hope he's not too mad at me. After what happened, I might have said or done anything.
1st Malachite, 101
Today is probably the first day I've been anything close to happy since mom passed away. I went back home to pack my things to move out, since this wouldn't be my home anymore, when I found a note from Lady Charity.
I couldn't believe what I was reading. Mom always told me good things about Lady Charity, and how generous she was. I mean, I knew she gifted this room to us, and my mother's magnificent warhammer to her, but I'd have never expected her to be so kind as to leave them to me. What have I done to earn such a gift?
Regardless, I couldn't keep it in anymore. I found Lady Charity down in her workshop, chipping away at one of her projects. I did the only thing I could think of. I gave her a hug and the most heartfelt thank you I could muster. It wasn't nearly enough. She just doesn't know how much these things mean to me. To keep them means I get to keep the part of my mom that is left in this world.
To top it off, she told me that she and Lord Cryptson look at me as if I was part of their family. I've spoken to Adamant a few times since my mom's death, and I think he likes me at least, but I'd have never expected that. I again can't express how much I appreciate the gesture. I really need all of the support I can have right now.
Speaking of which, I now know I can write my family in Coupledye. Mom told me it was pointless, that she'd never managed to get a letter through, but I think I'll try now that Lady Charity can endorse the letters.
2nd Malachite, 101
I made a mistake today. I took my mom's hammer down to the arena to work out some of my frustrations and pent up emotions in a combat drill. Something to just let the stress out.
Then I found him there. I couldn't believe that the diomedian who abducted me was being held there. He seemed surprised to see me too. I knew it was wrong. I knew it wasn't the right thing to do. Mom would be ashamed of me, and I know grapnda Starkey would be furious if he found out. But I killed the thief.
I felt horrible afterward. In a moment of rage I took him out of his cage and crushed the life from him with a few swings of my mom's hammer. After it was all over and done with, I just stared at him. At the death I'd wrought. I felt sick. This wasn't justice. Killing a pony, even a diomedian, even one who had done so much wrong to me and my mom, it just wasn't right.
Then I was horrified to learn I'd broken the law by doing so. It hadn't even occurred to me. I was just so upset and angry at him, I killed him without a thought. At least I wasn't punished for it, even though I know I should have been. Maybe grandpa Starkey pulled some strings, if even knows about it. Or Lady Charity maybe. I just don't know. I need some time alone to think about what I've done and remind myself of just how terrible it was.
Mom never did tell me the full story of why we were sent here, but she told me enough for me to infer that she'd killed several ponies in Coupledye under similar circumstances. She would be very upset to know I'd done this. I won't let her down again.
14th Malachite, 101
I heard Peytrel will live. It's a small blessing to know that I didn't fail everypony who fought against the monster. The real credit goes to Ms. Friesden and the other doctors of course, but maybe by me stabilizing him he survived. Even saving a single life makes my hardships worth it all.
24th Malachite, 101
Turns out I got a chance in the arena sooner than I expected. They had me go up against some of the monsters from the caverns that they'd managed to capture instead of kill outright. I still didn't take pleasure in killing them, but I fought with a renewed purpose and strength. I think I'm getting the hang of the fighting now. Killing things still upsets me a bit, but I know it's for the best. I can deal with it now.
Maybe mom would be proud of me after all. I won't kill again unless it's needed. These animal creatures are a danger to everypony, and the diomedians who siege us get what they deserve. But killing an unarmed prisoner is a different matter. I've learned my lesson. I just hope Luna will forgive me.
12th Galena, 101
Here I am, lying next to my mother's body in her tomb. I must look mad to anypony who would come and find me like this, lying next to her as if she was still living.
But I just need some time alone, and this feels like the place to be right now. I'm not sure why, maybe I am crazy. I've read my mom's letter a dozen times now, and I think I'm finally coming to terms with her passing. I'll keep it along with her other possessions so I never forget her and all she means to me. I just wish I could talk to her one more time. And... maybe dad too. Not my new dad, but my real dad. I barely knew him. I wonder what he would think of me?
I can't write much. I just don't know what else to say. Maybe there just aren't words for how I feel.
13th Galena, 101
I'm a foal. I thought I was a mare now, but apparently I'm still a foal.
After I cried my heart out again in my mother's tomb, I went back to the arena to sort out my emotions again. I found the rest of the militia taking turns fighting some of the more savage animal ponies we've captured, and I decided to take a turn. I don't know what I was thinking, but I took on the largest and meanest looking one of the lot: an elephant pony. They told me I was biting off more than I could chew, but I went on anyway.
And here I am in the hospital. I've never hurt so much in my life. All I remember was taking a crushing kick to the belly, followed by one to the chest. I was immediately nauseated from the blows and could barely breathe. I managed to scramble away and avoid a kick to the head, but while Akath and Kussad were busy saving my sorry hide the monster stamped my tail and broke the bone.
I owe them my life. If they hadn't stepped in when they did, I'd be with my mom and dad right now. As much as I want to see them again, that is still a very unsettling thought.
Ms. Friesden gave me a check over and said I'd be alright. It took some work for me to manage to cast the body reading spell, but I confirmed what she said. My tail is broken, but it will heal. I thought I'd broken some ribs, but they're only bruised. I'm still nauseated, but thankfully the kick to my stomach didn't crush or burst anything.
I'm very lucky. If it wasn't for the armor I was wearing or the timely intervention of my fellow ponies-at-arms, I'd be in much, much worse shape.
If mom really is watching me like she said she was in her letter, I can't imagine how she must feel right now. Disappointed maybe, but probably scared more than anything else.
I'm sorry mom. I'll be smarter next time. I promise.
Post by: Flying Dice on March 01, 2012, 10:12:24 pm
"So, Khenal, what does this entail, exactly? I mean, joining the Fortress guard back in the day wasn't much more complex than picking up armor and reporting for training, but I get the feeling that this is a little... different."
Post by: Khenal on March 01, 2012, 10:22:54 pm
"Well, I think she'll interview you, Traphe. The Fortress Guard is fairly general in it's focus, but the Ducal Guard is a bit more focused. So Charity needs to approve anypony before they join. Don't worry, though. Just be yourself, I'm sure she'll like you. Wait here for a sec so I can let her know, please."
I try to smile reassuringly at Traphe before knocking on Charity's door.
"Charity, are you in?"
Post by: Flying Dice on March 01, 2012, 10:25:49 pm
"O-Okay. Thank you again for this."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 01, 2012, 10:27:17 pm
"That sounds like Khenal. Osal, let him in."
"Yes, ma'am."
Khenal is greeted by the battle scared pegasus as he opens the door. He salutes Khenal. "Captain."
Khenal can see that other than her one guard she is alone her over-packed office. Charity sits behind her desk, sifting through a stack of papers with her magic.
Post by: Khenal on March 01, 2012, 10:31:40 pm
"Do you have a few minutes, Charity? I wanted to talk about the Ducal Guard, and your desire to expand it."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 01, 2012, 10:36:10 pm
"Oh, of course Khenal, I always have time for a friend." She shoves her work to one side. "What did you want to discuss?"
"Uh, Captain? Lady Charity? Would you like me to wait outside?" asks Osal.
Charity not knowing the nature of the conversation Khenal has planned looks to him to answer the question.
Post by: Khenal on March 01, 2012, 10:51:36 pm
"Huh? Oh! Um, it's not anything private, but it might be a bit crowded with you here, Osal. Please send Traph in for me as you go? Have you met Traphe, Charity? She was in the Fortress Guard when I was captain there, and I think she might make a good addition to the Ducal Guard."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 01, 2012, 10:55:28 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on March 01, 2012, 11:13:40 pm
"Hello, then. So you're the markspony Khenal recruited for the Ducal Guard?"
"Yes, sir."
"I'm sure you'll do admirably. Good luck."
"Thank you, I hope I will."
Traphe perks up an ear as a voice calls from within Charity's office.
Post by: Khenal on March 01, 2012, 11:15:54 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 01, 2012, 11:25:36 pm
Charity pulls a box out of her cabinet and begins sifting through files. "...t...t...t...Traphe, here we go."
She takes her seat again and looks over the file. "Yes, Captain Isos speaks quite highly of her skill. A few good remarks from you as well from when you where captain. No criminal record, at least not since she arrived here. Okay yes, with your recommendation we can give her a chance. I'll want to have a talk with her, myself, first of course."
Post by: Khenal on March 01, 2012, 11:28:20 pm
"Of course. Traphe? Would you please come in?"
Post by: Flying Dice on March 01, 2012, 11:34:24 pm
'Here goes nothing...'
Traphe salutes Charity.
"Hello, Duchess."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 01, 2012, 11:41:07 pm
"Captain Khenal has recommended you for a position in my personal guard, and I am willing to give you a chance, provided you can answer a few questions for me. Firstly, why do you want to serve in the Ducal Guard?"
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 04:05:41 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 02, 2012, 04:13:37 pm
Charity stand up and walks around her desk, her midnight blue cloak, the symbol of her possition flows behind her. The Duchess walks up to the mare and looks her straight in the eyes. "It's no secret that I've been the target of assassins, Diomedian ambushes, cultists, and likely more. Would you be prepared to fight and die in place of me, or my husband, or any of my foals?"
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 04:20:28 pm
"I said I would do anything to help anypony in Glitterglen. If I should die in the defense of another, so be it. If that pony is you, your husband, or one of your foals, I will not hesitate. If my duty is to protect you and yours, it shall be done. If I must die to do my duty, I will do so without fail."
((ed:typo))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 02, 2012, 04:35:16 pm
"Very well then Traphe. You have but one more thing you must do, and then you will be officially a member of My Guard. Kneel, and swear your loyalty to me, above all others, in the name of the Sisters."
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 04:39:49 pm
"In the name of the Sisters and by my honor I do swear to obey you, Charity, Duchess of Glitterglen, in all things, above all others, so long as I draw breath!"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 02, 2012, 04:46:20 pm
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 04:51:37 pm
"No, Your Grace. You have my thanks. I hope I shall fulfill your expectations in the years to come."
Traphe glances at Khenal, waiting for him to speak.
Post by: Khenal on March 02, 2012, 04:54:00 pm
"Not for now, Charity. Come on, Traphe. Lets get you outfitted propperly."
My horn glows as I hold the door open for Traphe, glad to have another capable and good pony in the Ducal Guard.
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 04:59:20 pm
'I'll need to think on this once I have some time, this could bode badly...'
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 05:30:16 pm
27 Limestone 101
Charity swore me in as a member of the Ducal Guard today. I suppose it is good; I'll certainly be able to serve Glitterglen more effectively like this. That oath, though. It sounds like she's worried about some sort of internal dissent. There are two primary possibilities here: that her concerns are reasonable, and somepony is actively working against her; and that she is worrying over something that isn't going to be an issue unless she makes it one. If it is the former, then all I must do is the most straightforward application of my duty as a Ducal Guard and a pony of Glitterglen. If it is the latter, though, I may have to do something that results in my death or exile, but with the Sisters as my witnesses, I will not allow Charity to harm herself or others by doing things she will later regret any more than I will allow an assassin to strike her down.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 02, 2012, 06:03:00 pm
Khenal has brought forth our first new recruit, for the Ducal Guard. Traphe from the Fortress Guard. He's worked with her before and she's both an experienced ranger, and one of our better fighters. She is an excellent choice, I couldn't be happier to have her in my guard. She took an oath of loyalty and that was that. Khenal is taking her to be fitted for some new steel now, and to let her take her pick from the armory.
Charity's Journal 1st Sandstone, 101
For reasons I cannot fathom Khenal and Cryptson have decided to drag me and my bodyguard out into the jungle to go hunting. We haven't seen any Diomedians in the jungle in months, they didn't even attack during the summer like they have every year before. It's most strange, but I don't think that it's that smart to assume that they aren't still out here. It's wet and cold here at night, as I write this by the campfire light. We haven't seen anything worth taking yet though. Still, it IS nice spending some time with friends away from all my responsibilities.
Charity's Journal 2nd Sandstone, 101
Today, Traphe found the tracks of something, something big. She says they look like Tiger tracks, but they'd have to be from a Tiger the size of an elephant. It leaves a trail even a city filly like me could follow, but it's getting dark, we will set out again in the morning. Traphe says we aren't to far behind it. Why am I so excited about this?
Charity's Journal 3rd Sandstone, 101
We caught the Giant Tiger today. Thanks to Traphe's tracking skills we were able to get it within sight. I had expected it to attack when it saw us but instead it ran for it. Madush dashed after it, the rest of us tried to follow him but none could match his speed. When we caught up he was sitting on the dead Tiger, it had only one injury, a bolt right to it's brain. Madush said he killed it with one shot, though I noticed he was missing more than 1 bolt from his quiver. I called him on it, and he blushed, we all had a good laugh. It's a long way from home, but we are going to try and get the body back, I'd like to have something nice made for Madush from it's hide if possible.
Charity's Journal 4th Sandstone, 101
It's so good to finally be home and to see the foals again. I'm not looking forward to the stack of work that's been piling up, but this trip was a great way to relax, we should do it again next year sometime.
Post by: Khenal on March 02, 2012, 10:17:16 pm
Charity accepted Traphe to the Ducal Guard! The oath she made her swear was slightly concerning, but it makes sense. I mean, she needs some kind of proof that we're going to protect her. I'm just glad she didn't ask me to swear a similar oath. I don't think I could.
Chapter 88
A few days ago, Traphe said she saw something really big out in the jungle, and she thought it might be fun to take Charity and her family hunting. Cryptson suggested just him and Charity, not wanting to put their foals in any danger. The trip was a lot of fun, honestly. Traphe is a great tracker, even if the giant tiger left a huge trail through the jungle. It took us a few days to actually track it down, and Madush was able to fell the speedy thing with a bolt to the head. He's getting to be quite good with that crossbow of his. Which reminds me, I need to find more melee ponies for the Ducal Guard. Traphe is learning how to use her crossbow in melee, and I've started Osal and Madush on a similar regimen, but I'm kinda the only front-line fighter right now. Well, not counting Cryptson. He's not technically part of the guard, but he likes to train with us in the barracks. He's amazing with that pick of his, too. The parries and strikes he can do with it I would swear were impossible if I hadn't watched him do them myself.
Post by: Flying Dice on March 02, 2012, 10:40:51 pm
1 Sandstone 101
It's nice to be out in the jungle again, even if the large party is scaring off game. I suppose that's a good thing; I'm out here to protect the Duchess and her husband, not gather food.
2 Sandstone 101
I found giant tiger tracks today. It probably already knows we're here, and if it has lived this long, it probably knows to stay well clear of us. Hopefully we won't corner it; a chase would be best. Charity seems excited, Sisters know why.
3 Sandstone
We caught up to the giant tiger today. Naturally, it ran. Madush galloped off after it like a foal on their first hunt. Thankfully, he got a lucky shot before it turned on him. We're heading back now, thankfully. I try to not show it, but it is rather frustrating being out in this wonderful jungle with a bunch of ponies nearly as noisy as workers from the capital.
Post by: DVNO on March 03, 2012, 09:47:23 pm
“But I swear unto you, on the most Holy god of your choice, I would never cross the family. I am loyal.”
A white Unicorn, Obese to the extremity, sat behind a finely engraved slate table. He leaned back, rolling a cigar around his mouth. His eyes pierce through the Pegasus. They, black as the bottom of a well, made him feel so hopelessly trapped.
“You were grabbed by a rival family. You were tortured. You cracked. I understand that. I can forgive that.” The Don Groveled in a domineering Boston accent.
He gestured for his captor’s binds cut.
“You told them my schedule and told them the most opportune time to take out a hit on me. I Understand that. I can forgive that.”
He took out a fine bottle of Bourbon and poured out two glasses. He motioned for the Pegasus to take a drink. The Pegasus hesitated. odds are the drink is poisoned. Then again, refusing a generosity from the Don would kill him faster than the poison. He bit the bullet.
“But lie to me? what did I ever do to garner such disrespect?”
Willlow sat in the corner of the room , furiously jotting down the conversation. her eyes constantly flicking up at clock to keep her timestamps accurate.
“I’m not your rat! What’s it going to take proove it!?”
The two had a staredown for long while. The Don breaks it with a laugh.
“Well, look who just grew a spine!” he chuckled.
“Relax my friend, either way it’s the past. Just do me favor we can put this all behind us.”
The Pegasus sighed with relief. he pours himself another glass of Bourbon. He knocks it back, holding his head high. the Don scratched his chin. Couth received the silent message and nodded. Darkmane Garroted the Pegasus with a fine Catgut.
Willow snapped to attention reflexively.
“wha’ are you doing? Wha’ are you doing you animals!?” she shouted.
The Don pulled out a dagger and used it to pin the Pegasus’s hoof to the table.
“Do me a favor and Die quick!” he shouted at the pony.
Blood and Bourbon spewed out of the Pegasus’s neck wound and he keeled over. The Don caught his breath and snapped a look at Willow.
“Doin’ Business, my dear Secretary.”
“He... was the mole, right? You were a hundred percent certain?” she quivered.
“Not in the slightest.” he responded nonchalantly. he groomed his mane back.
“Willow, take a note, an take this as life lesson; when you distract em’ with a laugh and a smile, they never see the knife coming.”
He sauntered over to her and stuck his tongue to the base of her chin and slowly arched it to her temple. She hemorrhaged with disgust.
“There’s a mop and bucket in the back” he whispered.
The Don walked out of his office. Couth started to follow, but turned back to meet her sister’s gaze.
“I’m sorry you had to see the Nit n' Grit, Sis.” He sighed and caught up.
Willow's Ice blue eyes flickered to life. The second she could get her brain to synapse she put it to use connecting the dots. white sheets. beds. hospital. Failed Jungles. Glitterglen. Brother in Glitterglen. No flowers around bedside. Throats not slit. Brother doesn't know I'm here. let's keep it that way.
she picks up a hand mirror by her bedside. same Olive face. same red hair. no major scarring or disfigurement. good. She punches the mirror, fracturing it. she takes a triangular piece of mirror and rapidly swipes it across the metal bedframe until the wedge has a lethal edge.
she throws the mirror's remains out her hospital window and pockets the makeshift razor.
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 12:39:11 am
She deserved every bit of it.
She rests her head on the bed and closes her eyes. What was she thinking? She was such a foal. An idiot. She had been in the militia for scant weeks by this point, how could she possibly have thought she was skilled enough to take on a monster ten times her size? She deserved to have some sense beaten into her. In fact, she probably deserved to be reprimanded officially some how for being so stupid. Somepony else could have been hurt or killed if the thing got away.
At the very least her armor was going to have to be repaired now. It was the only reason she was alive right now, and it was pretty mangled by the devastating kicks, last she saw. The thought of that kick to her chest resurfaced in her mind. The panic she felt when she couldn't breathe. Then the blow to her stomach and the immediate nausea she felt. It was only by some miracle she managed to move out of the way of its last stamp. Well, she managed to avoid getting killed, but her tail was pretty broken up.
Her face contorts slightly and she begins swallowing convulsively as the nausea peaks for a few seconds. She manages to hold it in at least. It would be back though, and it was getting worse. How she hadn't taken some major internal injuries was beyond her. But she was going to puke sooner or later from the way she felt, so she opens her eyes and searches the room for a bucket or something else to relieve her stomach contents into when it came to that.
Her eyes settle on the bed to the opposite side of the hospital. The bed where her mom had spent those painful days after she broke her leg. So many memories flood back... and her face again contorts, but this time in frustration and sadness. She never liked coming to the hospital anyway of course, but this brought back memories of her mom she didn't like in the least.
Then the words in her mother's letter come to her. "I can't be there to comfort you now..."
She closes her eyes again and lets a few tears drip onto her pillow. At least she managed to keep her crying silent. She wasn't a foal anymore, as much as her idiocy might say otherwise. She had to be an adult and suck it up. But she could just picture her mother sitting by her bedside, gently stroking her mane, consuming concern on her face. Or lying next to her on the floor, like she'd done in turn those years ago. Oh, Celestia and Luna help her... she wasn't going to get over this any time soon... she knew it.
What a complete idiot she was. Hadn't she learned from her mother? She had come so close to joining her... through the very same way... "Mom..." she whispers under her breath.
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 12:39:29 am
The Note reads,
Dear Willow,
I don't know when you'll read this, the doctors can't tell me when you'll wake up. I want you to know my foal is going to see his father again because of your courage. here's fifty bits. it's the least I can do. I might be gone by the time you wake up. taking a Zebra Caravan to Dawnpick, then wrap around To Talintranced.
Sigil
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 12:44:58 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 12:53:19 am
"Um... I... I feel really sick..."
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 12:59:36 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 01:17:03 am
Well... Friesden was somepony...
Her ears droop as she lets out a breath. "...can... can we just talk for a little bit?"
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 01:18:16 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 01:26:02 am
"...I-I don't want to burden you with my problems... but... I just need somepony to talk to..." She blinks and looks away to the empty bed where her mom had rested those years ago before her eyes drift back to Friesden. "...I just feel so stupid... and scared... I... I mean... I could have..." Her words trail off as she finds herself incapable of finishing the sentence.
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 01:27:52 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 01:29:52 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 01:34:46 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 01:35:48 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 01:46:29 am
"what did you get yourself into, girl?" she whispered.
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 01:46:51 am
"You... you were one of her best friends... maybe even her best friend... you know that right?"
She fights back a pang of sadness as she realizes that she didn't really have any close friends in Glitterglen any more. Lilac was gone. She was only just getting to know Adamant...
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 01:49:28 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 02:00:17 am
Another thought strikes her... Friesden knew Starkey better than she did... "...um... do you think Grandpa Starkey will be upset about what happened?"
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 02:02:18 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 02:14:32 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 02:25:53 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 02:48:46 am
"Ugh, Nurse! Nurse! oh, the pain!"
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 03:03:11 am
Friesden goes over to the bed of the pony who had started to scream. "What is it?"
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 03:15:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 03:20:31 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 03:31:12 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 03:34:42 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 03:36:51 am
"Ooh, Ouch. what'ca do that for?"
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 03:42:40 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 03:50:52 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 03:56:01 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 04:12:39 am
Didn't this pony say her mother died? mother in the milita? well if the spot's open, Ka-ching.
.. Or I might stay for a while. I'd need a job, though. so you said you're in the milita? how's that like?"
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 04:19:26 am
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 04:28:29 am
"Oh, that's terrible!" Willow gasped. "Well, it sounds like ya need the horse power. I see what I can find out. In the meantime-"
Willow starts to whistle feverishly.
"Roughneck? Roughneck? Probably in the kennels."
She gets out of bed.
"I'll find 'em"
Post by: Dsarker on March 04, 2012, 09:08:38 am
Post by: Telgin on March 04, 2012, 10:40:37 pm
Post by: DVNO on March 04, 2012, 11:06:18 pm
She grabs her Ten Gallon and her ranger gear, made of fine studded leather. Dagger missing. Wise. For who the hell was she? What the hell was she capable of? She didn't even know sometimes. She switched clothes and headed out. Then came back.
"Uh, Doc? I couldn't help but overhear your "Secret" as well...I just - I don't know the who or the what or the why but It's obvious you've been through hell. All I can say is a wound's a wound. Physical? Psychological? Emotional? they all heal with time."
Shes slides her hoof across the brim of her hat
"Ah, I ain't helpin'. Just oversteppin'. Just... Stay golden Doc. See ya round Kris."
Willow heads for the kennels
Post by: Dsarker on March 08, 2012, 07:24:55 pm
Khenal stands at the altar, looking like a nervous wreck. He's dressed in a relatively simple suit, well cut and tailored, but not flashy. Charity stands in the dinning hall in-front of everypony, dressed in her finest robes. She was nervous, about all this, she'd never presided over something like this before, but had been honored when the bride and groom had asked her to. She looked to Khenal, he was quite handsome in his suit, it reminded her of Cryptson at their wedding. She smiled and waited for the ceremony to begin.
"Are you ready, sweetheart?" asks Starkey. "Yes, yes, yes!" replies Friesden,
Falcata smiles as she watches Friesden prepare. So many memories of her own back in Coupledye a decade ago with Estoc...
Friesden says to Starkey "This is going to be the best day of my life!" "And of mine, Friesden... It's time. Let's go." "Okay!" replies Friesden in joy.
Starkey takes Friesden's hoof in his own, and they set off. Khenal smiles nervously as the bridal march begins to play. Friesden is almost jumping in excitement as she walks down the aisle.
Charity looks out at Friesden as she begins to walk down the aisle. This is it she thinks. Cryptson sits on what would traditionally be the groom's side, though as neither of them have much family, and most share friends the side doesn't truly matter, he thinks to himself how lovely Friesden looks, and how he can see why so many stallions want her, even if she didn't quite meet his tastes.
Khenal stares as Friesden comes down the aisle, amazed that she could look even more beautiful than she usually does. Starkey just trots calmly beside her, staring at his daughter in absolute adoration.
Falcata watches the ceremony commence, feeling butterflies in her own stomach. How that was possible when you were dead was beyond her.
Friesden arrives at the altar, still smiling wide.
Even in undeath, Otik somehow manages to feel faint. She leans against Falcata for support, who gives her a nervous smile as well.
Khenal smiles widely at Friesden, unable to find the words to tell her how amazing she is. Friesden smiles even /wider/ at Khenal. The smile seems to extend off her face.
Charity looks over the two, 'This has been a long time coming.' Charity looks out to the crowd and begins, "Friends, family, and assorted others of Glitterglen. We are gathered here today, to witness the binding of Captain Khenal, and Doctor Friesden, in the most holy of unions the Sisters, in their mercy, offer to us, marriage." Charity begins to lead the town in a prayer for the long life and happiness of the two ponies. As the prayer is concluded, Charity moves on, "I am told that the couple has prepared their own vows, which they will now recite." Charity turns her gaze to her loyal captain.
Khenal nervously clears his throat, wondering if any words can actually convey how much he loves Friesden, while Friesden looks at Khenal in adoration.
"Friesden. 'I love you' doesn't even begin to describe how I feel about you. You are so kind, so caring, so loving! Every day I wonder how the Sisters could have blessed somepony like me with such a wonderful pony as you. You are beautiful: inside and out, through and through. And you make me so happy. You make me a better pony, because you set such a wonderful example for how to love everypony, everyone. I've seen me without you, and I never want to be that pony again. So I will give my all to you, to be used as you see fit to help whoever you deem needy. You are my Only Light, and you guide me through these rough waters like a beacon. I can think of no greater honor, in this world or the next, than to be your husband."
Friesden beams even more than could be physically possible, and speaks in turn.
"Khenal, I love you so much that I can't even believe it could be true. Every day I am with you brings me to even higher heights of happiness. I can't believe how good you are, how happy you make me, how you care for me so much. Your love is a balm to my spirit, and a mighty fortress to protect me. You are my light, my song, my joy, my strength, my redeemer, my defence, my all. Without you, I am less than nothing, less than anything of worth, and yet you give me the greatest gift, that of being your wife."
Post by: Khenal on March 08, 2012, 10:09:23 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 09, 2012, 02:56:42 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 09, 2012, 02:59:38 pm
"I do."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 09, 2012, 03:04:37 pm
Do you promise to love, cherish and obey him, whether
in good fortune or in adversity, and to seek with him a life of virtue under the watchful eyes of the Sisters?"
Post by: DVNO on March 12, 2012, 02:15:58 pm
Mandatory sad music (http://www.youtuberepeat.com/watch/?v=BwXlzy9k7jI)
Hireo looked on at the ceremony, dressed in his best attire. his eyes were glassed over and he wore a pained expression.
on one hoof, the day was finally here. his best friend and his sis were tying the knot and he couldn’t be any happier for them. it always struck him what an odd pairing these two were from the the very beginning. a law giver and a convict? in love? scandalous. unthinkable. polar opposites. and yet their love was undeniable all the same. Friesden has come such a long way. just look at her at the alter. he remembered her high points, remembered her lowest depressions, and remembered being there for her every step of the way. and now look, just when Glitterglen hit her darkest hour, when he about convinced himself the sun would never rise again, Friesden saved him from himself.
on the other, this was supposed to be his day. he knew this feeling was selfish and wrong, but he couldn’t squelch it no matter how hard he tried. but what could he do? play idiot? deny he’s getting the short end of the stick? was the appropriate response to unhinge and ruin this beautiful event? or was it to endure the weight of it all? he sank into some memories of when he was a colt. when life was so simple. about the age he could swing his wood sword around and listen to old legends and stories. he lived his life by their tenants. be best you can be. save the damzel. slay the dragon. live happily ever after. failed, failed and failed. these stories never told him how to recover from watching his fiance and his mother die in front of him. how to cope with the fact that no matter what he does, it will be overshadowed by Khenal’s accomplishments. how to keep going after he’s come to the revelation that he is not integral to the grand scheme of things. that, like Flacata and Otik, he too could fade away.
Spoiler: ugh, worlds colliding make it stop (click to show/hide)
Post by: Dsarker on March 12, 2012, 03:49:46 pm
"I do."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 12, 2012, 03:53:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 12, 2012, 04:09:19 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 12, 2012, 04:31:00 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 12, 2012, 04:38:55 pm
Out of sight in another realm of existence, Falcata sits next to Otik, beaming with joy. Finally, after all Friesden had been through, she and Khenal could move on with their lives and with a little luck really live happily ever after. She might not have lived to see it in person, but she was glad all the same that she could at least witness it at all.
There was the gnawing feeling inside her that today was meant to be so much more... but at least there was still some joy to come from it.
Post by: Impending Doom on March 13, 2012, 03:21:13 am
She barely stifles a sob.
Post by: Telgin on March 13, 2012, 03:27:56 am
She lets out her breath and tries to keep her voice level, feeling the inkling of a cry coming on herself. Happiness and sadness roiled through her mind. "It's... are you alright?"
Of course she wasn't alright... but she'd gone and said it now...
Post by: Impending Doom on March 14, 2012, 07:27:42 pm
"A-Aye, it's just... it's such a w-wonderful sight, isn't it?"
Post by: Telgin on March 14, 2012, 10:06:28 pm
Something inside her told her that she should say something to Otik... something reassuring, but she didn't know what. Otik hadn't spoken to Starkey, even after they talked to Friesden and Khenal. There was probably a reason for that... probably similar to why she hadn't talked to Kris yet.
Post by: DVNO on March 16, 2012, 05:52:34 pm
"...And I'm glad one of you dolts finally kicked the bucket. It was getting so lonely here in hell. Did ya miss me?" Couth Darkmane seethed through a maniacal grin.
Post by: slothen on March 16, 2012, 07:17:07 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 16, 2012, 09:15:13 pm
Her face hardens into a sneer. "Couth..." she says in a low voice, all but a hiss.
Post by: DVNO on March 17, 2012, 06:40:27 am
"Well, except for the 'being dead' and all." He added with venom.
"So how did the whole heroism thing pan out? Was it everything you hoped for, getting slaughtered by a monster ten times the size of you out of a mis-guided sense of loyalty?" A sense of loyalty your friends don't share, I might add."
Couth looks down at the wedding.
"look at them, carrying on as if you we're never there. You're nothing but a cautionary tale already." he grinned.
"Ha ha ha. And- ha ha. Oh, and trauma you put you daughter Kris though!? Her watching you die in vain? Tears fleeing from her eyes as she comforted your last gasps of breath? And then she comes up with the brilliant idea,"I want to be just like her! I want to end up a pile of red mulch just like my mother!" Ha ha, priceless!"
"Hah, Kris. I remember I was going to foalknap Kris, you know that? I was going to use her to strong arm you into bringing me Friesden, Knap Adamant, tie them both up to Kerosine barrels placed in stockpiles on opposite ends of the fort, light fiften minute fuses, and force Khenal to choose between an innocent foal and a murderer. o-ho, and when he would've picked the good doctor over Charity's son, I would have shown the fort your true colors. And while Glitterglen tore you apart? I would have finished the job with Charity and been paid handsomely by the diomidians for handing them an alicorn. put all that coin towards a campaign for mayor, then, who knows? I could have been your boss." He beamed, head swimming in delusions of grandeur. He crashed back to reality.
"But then you ruined all the fun." He snarled, almost spitting the consonants.
Post by: Telgin on March 17, 2012, 02:41:22 pm
She leans in closer, baring her teeth in a snarl. "And leave my child out of this... if you had harmed her, then there is no force on this side of the universe that could have stopped me from getting my revenge. Not even Luna herself could stop me."
She clenches her jaw as she realizes that this was all futile. They were already dead, Couth couldn't harm anypony now. "My only regret is that I didn't discover the truth about you earlier. You nearly killing me turned out to be one of the best things to ever happen to me... but I'd have given it all up to prevent the damage you caused while you were free..."
Post by: DVNO on March 18, 2012, 03:28:48 am
He shoves Falcata off him with maximum prejudice and brushes himself off. "Ah, but I am getting ahead of myself. It's been fun catching up, but let's get down to buisnuss. Luna has sent me. your day of judgement has come. just beyond that portal lies a place where we'll decide weather you'll go to heaven or hell. I'll be arguing why you should go to hell, and- hold on," Couth pulled out a scroll "Let's see ... somepony named Es- Estoc will be defending why you should go to heaven."
"Now, This is the part where I am supposed to give you the option to stay in purgatory, but I have plans for you. you're coming with me one way or the other. As for you -" He glaces at Otik "Heaven and I don't have any plans for a lesbian, Diomidian loving skank like you. Stay; Go, I don't care. But personally I would stay." he whispered.
Post by: Telgin on March 18, 2012, 10:24:44 am
She finally reaches Couth as he makes his untoward remark about Otik, and her apprehension and fear immediately dissolve into righteous fury again. She brings a hoof up to Couth's jaw with all the might she can muster. "Don't ever speak about her like that again!"
Estoc was standing nearby as all of this transpired, and was moments away from throwing himself upon Couth when he heard his own name. The anger drained away and was replaced by confusion, and he trots to a stop near Couth. "Defend her...?" He looks up to Falcata as she decks Couth and adds, "...are you ready? If not, I'd like to see this pony force the both of us..."
She silently stares at the evil parody of a pony before her... unsure herself what to say or do...
Post by: DVNO on March 19, 2012, 02:27:35 am
he levels with Falcata
"Are you scared? angry? Don't be. everyone loses to death in the end. you are not unique. you are not a special snowflake."
"I've been living on borrowed time ever since I came here. And when I was sick I came to terms with my mortality. I didn't fear death."
"What if I told you I found a way to cheat that bastard? Death, I mean."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean If you do exactly what I say, jump when I tell you to jump, I can reunite you with your daughter.."
"I'm listening..." Falcata leaned in.
"But there is one hell of a catch..." Couth's red eyes darted to his sister at the wedding reception. For once his poker face snapped into something nervous. "I... need to go, -do- something. Don't go anywhere." he drifts through a wall.
Post by: Impending Doom on March 19, 2012, 02:49:38 am
"...d'you believe him? D'you really think... he's got a way back?"
Post by: Telgin on March 19, 2012, 02:56:10 am
Estoc snorts. "Let him believe what delusions he wants. And even if he could do such a thing, what price would there be?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 20, 2012, 08:13:44 pm
Charity's Journal 1st Sandstone, 101
Ramol's squad has the duty of watching over the workers in the jungle this month, escorting them to and from their work stations, warding off predators and preventing ambushes.
Charity's Journal 10th Sandstone, 101
Ramol's squad spotted a herd of Elephant ponies near the workers, some of the workers were frightened. And so the soldiers decided to run them off, they were forced to fight, and apparently killed 3 of them. The stories they are telling down in the hall are quite unbelievable. They say Shigos cut one in half across the stomach with one slash. But that's ridiculous, it couldn't be true.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Woah.png)
Charity's Journal 11th Sandstone, 101
New migrants to Glitterglen, they bring our total population up to 150 indivuals.
We have:
Earthpony Mare, Cook
Unicorn Stallion, Expert Bone Doctor/Expert Dairy Farmer (one of the strangest resumes I've ever read)
Pegasus Stallion, Ranger (He's being introduced to the surviving Skyguard.)
Unicorn Mare, Spinster
Earthpony Stallion, Hauler (was an apprentice armor smith before coming here, but we just don't have the material to waste on a novice.
Unicorn Stallion, Ranger
Unicorn Stallion, Gemsetter/clothing maker
Unicorn Stallion, potash maker (He's volunteered to join the militia)
Charity's Journal 23rd Sandstone, 101
The Skyguard is finally being brought back onto active duty. Starkey hesitated for a long time before choosing who to take over as Captain of the squad. He finally chose Jaxler. I don't know much about the pony personally, but he's been with us for awhile, and was Otik's second in command, so he's the logical choice.
Charity's Journal 27th Sandstone, 101
While in the jungle working on the road our alicorn Architect went into labor. She gave birth to a earthpony colt right there on the new road. Fortunately there were no complications so far from home, and both mother and child are fine now, and the doctors give both a clean bill of health.
Charity's Journal 14th Timber, 101
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Stetar%20withdraws.png)
While the workers were outside the walls working on the stone road, in the distance at the top of the hill Ramol's squad spotted a massive group of Diomedians. The Guard escorted the frightened workers back into the wall and sounded the alarm. Starkey is rallying his troops for war. Me, my husband, and my bodyguard stand just under the hatch to the surface, should Starkey and the others fall, we will be the last line of defense.
Charity's Journal 18th Timber, 101
The enemy army has been being harassed by the parasprites, that's only good for us. Let's them tire themselves out and means we don't have to deal with as many of them. They killed a few watchdogs, but nothing major has happened yet. The militia and guard are mostly in position, and we rose the gate when the enemy got close. One Diomedian was injured by the Skyguard when he got close, but he's backed off for now. They are galloping all around the fort just out of range, like vultures circling a kill. Their apparent leader is on horseback charging around in the lead.
Charity's Journal 26th Timber, 101
Today, we decided to sortie out and meet the barbarians. Starkey and his war bear, lead the charge. The enemy Keishi that lead the charge dodged a bolt from Captain Jaxler before turning into a ballet of blood. He parried Starkey's every blow and crippled his wing and cut open his head through his steel helmet. Starkey is gone.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Starkey%27s%20Death.png)
The entire army of Glitterglen smashed into the enemy lines, but all reports agree that that lone Keishi did almost all of the damage. He must have been one of the strongest warriors we have ever seen. He killed both, Starkey and Shigos, and injured Ramol, Kris, Bubel, and Peytral, though none of the injured are seriously hurt. The enemy has been either, killed, routed or captured.
We have one prisoner, a Tentacle pony, but not their leader. I'll have Khenal question him, but I don't know what useful information we could get from him.
During the siege an armor helped himself to some of our valuable materials. He made a turly amazing bit of armor. It'll be part of Khenal's uniform from now on. But it's existance reminds me, we sit on a mountain of the stuff. We NEED to start making use of it. I am authorizing the creation of several new suits of armor made of Adamantine for the militia, if only I'd done it sooner, maybe Starkey would still be alive.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Shagoggonggash.png)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Stasisflays.png)
Post by: Telgin on March 20, 2012, 09:04:58 pm
In short, she was terrified.
But everypony around her seemed calm, especially her grandpa. They all had this under control. He'd personally seen to the end of many of these diomedian attackers, many ambushes and sieges she'd never laid eyes upon. Somepony might get hurt... that's why she was here, after all, but they'd all make it back and have stories to tell of it. She'd make her mom proud today, one way or another.
Another series of agonizing minutes of inactivity passed before Starkey finally ordered the charge. She relents for a moment, unsure if she could really face the enemy head on like this, but rallies. She chases after the rest of her squad, watching as the diomedians ahead drew closer and closer. Her heart was still thundering in her chest, but her nerves began to ease a bit as adrenaline flooded her veins. She tightens her grip on her hammer and shield without a thought, ready to do her part.
The next few moments were chaos on a level she'd never imagined. The two armies collided in a cacophony of clanging metal, shouts and curses as each fought tooth and hoof for their lives. She circles uncertainly around a melee as scourge and whip equipped diomedians lashed out at her comrades at arms. She dithers and raises her weapon, searching for an opening to help, but nothing shows itself. Then something that would haunt her to the day she died happens.
Her grandpa was dueling with one of the scourge wielding keshis, striking out with his axe repeatedly but finding the unnaturally fast and durable scourge blocking or throwing off each strike. Then the keshi retaliates, whipping the heinous weapon at him. Starkey's head snaps back and a spray of blood spurts into the air as the magical weapon strikes home, tearing through his chanfron as if it wasn't there. Her mother's hammer drops from her mouth and her shield falls to the ground as her concentration evaporates at the horrific sight.
"No!" she screams, snatching her shield back up but forgetting the hammer. She was not going to lose somepony else. Not when she was right there. Any sense of self preservation disappears as she bounds over a confused tentacle pony with a whip before galloping toward her stricken grandfather. She just had to grab him and get to safety. The others could finish things up while she tended to him. He'd be okay...
She snarls and throws her shield into a bash against the monster intent on taking him from her. The keshi easily deflects the bash and raises his own weapon in response. There was another soul piercing crack as the weapon snaps through the air, and she feels a burst of stinging pain on the side of her head. She just has time to see her damaged chanfron tumble to the ground, speckled with blood and sporting several rents before the swimming world is suddenly jerked around her. Her leg is pulled from beneath her painfully and she yelps in confusion.
Despite her best efforts to free herself from the horrible grip of the whip wrapped around her leg, she finds herself face-to-face with the tentacle pony she'd hurdled moments before. The pony gives her a wide grin, showing yellowed and foul teeth. "You're next..." She looks into his eyes for a moment, lost in their baleful unnatural glow, and the realization that she wasn't helpless strikes her. Her shield raises up to strike at her assailant, but it instead drops to the ground as the tentacle pony pulls the whip tight and wrenches it with astounding strength.
The pain she felt against the elephant pony didn't begin to compare to the pain of having her knee twisted far out of alignment and her hoof crushed beneath a hateful stomp from the pony. She cries out and tries again to struggle free of his grip, but the stabbing pain grows to unbearable levels with each attempt, and the world begins to slowly fade into blurry oblivion as she is overtaken by the agony.
The last thing she sees is the pony's head whirl to the side just as another militia pony leaps to her aid, and everything goes dark.
Post by: Khenal on March 20, 2012, 09:23:43 pm
'No... that's... that's impossible!'
The diomedians seem to gain a surge of moral at the death of my dear friend and commander. With a bellow of fury, I streak form the wall into the diomedians, determined to see they pay for the death of The North Depths.
Post by: Impending Doom on March 20, 2012, 10:58:59 pm
...and flails about as his hoof fails to meet earth. The force intensifies, pulling him upwards, towards... the moon? in the middle of the day?
No...
No, not yet! He can't go! What about Friesden, what about Heiro!? His children need him! Starkey flares his wings, furiously beating the air against the inexorable pull, to no avail.
"Starkey..."
Oh Luna, that voice... he supposed she would be there to greet him. Could he face her again, knowing that he had abandoned their children...
"Stay with me, Starkey..."
Oh, how he hoped he could. Maybe she would forgive him after all. IF they could be together again,t hen at least-
"Starkey, give me yer hoof!"
Starkey's eyes snap open.
"O-Otik?"
"Yes, ye great featherbrain! Now take my hoof!"
Starkey takes a moment to comprehend, before reaching out with both forehooves and grasping Otik's. She pulls hard, dragging him out of the beam of light. Without warning, it winks out, dropping the two pegasi unceremoniously on the ground. Neither of them seem to care. They are already in each other's hooves, sobbing and kissing and nuzzling.
Post by: Telgin on March 20, 2012, 11:40:37 pm
Falcata lets out a feral shriek and bucks at a nearby diomedian fruitlessly, her hooves passing through the twisted pony's head harmlessly. She shouts and screams and kicks at the ponies several more times, tears streaming from her eyes. "Get away from her, you monsters!" she screams, aware that what she was doing was pointless but unable to help herself.
Finally she turns back to Kris to see Estoc crouching next to her, faint traces of tears in his eyes as well. "Please... please tell me she's alright... Luna help me... please," she begs, trotting over to her wounded daughter. Kris is lying motionless in a small puddle of blood being fed from a bad gash on her temple, and her leg is clearly broken. The arrival of the ducal guard at least had finally cleared the area of the diomedians, but she was in bad shape.
Estoc nods slowly and looks up. "I... I think she'll be okay."
Her spirit wasn't rising from her body, so that was a relief at least... but to see her daughter badly wounded again... Falcata slumps to the ground next to Kris and begins sobbing. As Estoc gives her a weak nuzzle, she says, "I... I can't keep doing this... seeing her get hurt... not being able to help... I can't do it..."
Post by: DVNO on March 21, 2012, 12:09:22 am
"Egh,.. Ah, why do we keep, Eh, charging at the'se Bleed'in ponies? it never works!" The pony gasped.
The pony clumsily dragged his slashed hoof over a hastily laid rope trap. the pressure released, the rope tensed, and the leg was near torn in half being hoisted half-way up a mango tree. two ice-blue eyes gleamed from the dark canopy.
"Eh, you littlah mare, help me outta this!" the pony begged, trying to untie his his binds with his tentacles."help me an' I won't cut ya open! that'sa promise!
Willow just whistles an upbeat little tune and saunters over to the pony, not even acknowledging him.
"that's it, I won't bite!" he coaxed, nodding in feverish approval.
Willow continued her tune, drew a dagger out.
"nah jus' cut the rope an' - aaUUGH"
Willow starts sawing through one of his tentacles, still whistling.
"Stop! Stop! Wha' are yuh'? stop!" the pony tried two arc the other two tentacles away from her. She smashed the ponies muzzle in until she could grab another and started to saw through that one as well. she cuts through the both of them at once and they drop on the jungle floor.
The tentacle pony sobs a single "Why?"
"Oh, why am I'ah cutting your tentacles off? personal preference. It's just easier to handle a de-clawed animal in my opinion."she drones in a dull, impersonal tone. she got the gauze out, hog tied him, and carried on with her whistling practice.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 12:45:47 am
Copper walked up to him, a tiny filly having just turned two a week or so ago. She had her younger sister, Cinnamon Diamond only a few months old on her back.
"Addy, when will Mommy and Daddy be back."
"They'll be back soon Copper." 'and Kris too I hope.' "Commander Starkey is a great fighter, I'm sure he'll take care of the badguys and come back with all new stories real soon."
_____________________________
A short time later
Cryptson walks into the room.
Adamant stands up from the game he was playing with Blue Diamond. "Dad is everypony okay? Where's mom?"
"Your mother is fine. She's...with Khenal, and his wife...The Commander, he won't be coming back."
The new that Starkey had been killed seemed impossible to believe but before he could question it, his father hit him with a metaphorical ton of bricks.
"Kris was injured in the battle. She'll live but you should visit her in the hospital."
Adamant didn't have to be told twice. In mere moments, the hospital doors flew open and the Duchesses son marched in, the ponies present moved from his way as he called out, "KRIS! Kris where are you!"
Looking around frantically he spies her telltale rainbow mane in a bed to the east wall. He rushes to her side. She is still unconscious, but Venture assures him that she'll be fine, and should wake up soon. He touches his right forehoof to her unbroken one, and sits and waits for her to wake up.
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 01:00:42 am
...shouts...screams...
...blood...
...death...
...helplessness...
...pain...
"No... not... not going to... lose... you too..." Kris mumbles as her eyes slowly crack. She winces as the light floods her vision, blinding her for a moment and sending an excruciating jolt of pain through her head. She lets out a weak groan as she tries to move and finds that shifting her leg brought extreme pain. Everything was so bright... confusing... nothing made sense... where was she?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 01:11:40 am
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 01:16:35 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 01:24:18 am
"I'm sorry Kris, my dad said that he's gone. Your grandfather won't be coming back. I'm sorry. He died a hero to everypony in Glitterglen."
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 01:31:48 am
She looks as if she's going to cry, but no tears come. She was still too shocked by it all... this couldn't be real... not again... not again...
"Oh.. Addy..." she mutters after a moment, other words leaving her.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 01:53:10 am
After a few moments of hugging, Adamant looks around the doctors are busy taking care of the other injured ponies, he saw Buble, laying on sheets soaked with his own blood, he thought back to his foal hood and remembered playing with Buble, how he always said he wanted to be a guard to protect ponies when he grew up, and seeing him in here now... Peytral was there too, and he was always one of Glitterglen strongest, or at least most enthusiastic warriors, Even Captain Ramol was hurt, Adamant couldn't imagine what kind of force could have done this to Glitterglen's militia.
"Venture said you were good to go as soon as you woke up. She's already cleaned all your wounds and patched up your hoof. Do you want to go get something to drink, or maybe some food, or I could just take you home if you want?"
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 02:02:08 am
"U-uh... o-okay..." She wasn't really hungry, but she was thirsty. And she'd do anything to be away from the hospital right now. "I... I am thirsty..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 02:34:25 am
"Krish, I'm glad you're okay. I...I was goint to vishit you, in a moment, but now your here." Charity hugs Kris tightly. Kris can spell alcohol on the Duchess's breath.
Adamant moves into the room and takes a seat.
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 02:40:11 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 02:42:33 am
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 09:31:41 am
She cautiously adjusts her grip to relieve the pain in her smashed hoof and her eyes fall on Khenal and Friesden. Her heart sinks further as she sees Friesden weeping. Everything hit her so hard, but the pain of losing another parent, much less so soon, would have been unbearable for anypony. Kris' ears droop and her eyes close as the realization of what had happened settles on her mind again.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 05:24:59 pm
Adamant has already helped himself to a plate a food, and poured two drinks, one for himself and one for Kris that he set in front of the seat next to him. He had not expected to find his mother, or her friends here, but he hoped that Kris would feel better surrounded by family and friends.
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 05:26:40 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 06:52:48 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 06:59:08 pm
"I know, my Only Light. I... I wish they were still here, too."
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 07:00:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 07:04:33 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 07:05:59 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 07:09:33 pm
"You did not kill them, my Only Light. Their deaths are not your fault. Even if you never came here, they were both still in the military. It's... a risk they chose to take. It's not your fault that... that their times came up."
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 07:11:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 07:15:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 21, 2012, 07:17:31 pm
'Can I? Is it even possible to bring ponies back? Would they even want to?'
Looking into her pleading eyes, I know there is only one answer I can give.
"I... will most certainly try, my love."
Post by: Dsarker on March 21, 2012, 07:19:33 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 07:34:10 pm
Adamant sits with Kris and gently reaches around her, holding her. He didn't really know what to say, to anypony here, and remained quiet.
Post by: Telgin on March 21, 2012, 08:25:20 pm
A faint sigh passes her lips as she finishes her drink. Such a thing was madness. She'd best stop dwelling on it now before it wormed its way into her mind. At least Charity was right. They'd all died fighting for the lives of everypony in Glitterglen. Luna would have given them their due reward.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 21, 2012, 11:44:09 pm
(End Scene.)
Post by: Telgin on March 22, 2012, 02:18:16 am
The two had spoken for hours and hours about nothing in particular. Just things to get her mind off of what had happened, before inevitably drifing back in that direction before one of them managed to think of something to snap their attention away. She was still stunned about it all, but every time she started to break down... when the implications really set in and forced their way through the haze... he was right there to comfort and support her. What had she done to deserve a friend like that?
As she lies there, the events of the day play back through her head. For the thousandth time. She watches in slow motion as she hesitates to charge. As she hesitates to fight. Then as her grandfather is slain before her eyes, and how she failed to help him. She'd helped one pony since she joined the militia. One. And he was in the hospital again right now with serious injuries from a battle she'd been in but failed to help with.
The horrible whip cracks repeat in her mind. Those wretched, unnatural weapons that tore through armor and flesh as if they were but paper. How had the diomedians found such magic? Would they employ it again against them?
Of course they would. Then she would die too.
They... they'd taken Captain Starkey... Grandpa Starkey from her. He was invincible. He went up against much worse odds and came back unscathed. Nopony could be better than him. She'd seen him fight and train, been there when he trained her. Nopony could be better than him. And yet it didn't matter. Those horrible... sisters-damned whips...
If he couldn't stand up against a weapon like that, nopony could. Especially not her. Weak, cowardly little Kris? She would die the next time the diomedians came. She would go out with the rest of the militia, and she would die. She would die just like he did. Just like Grandma Otik did. Just like her mom did. She'd die too. Except she wouldn't do it heroically. She'd be killed running away from the enemy. Running after everypony else died around her and she failed to save even one of them. If she was lucky they'd kill her quickly. A phantom pain wracks her leg where the whip had gripped it during the fight... just before it had been shattered by the pony's mere wrenching of his whip. She was going to die... and it wouldn't come quickly... a whip was an instrument of torture...
She was scared. No, she was absolutely terrified. She didn't want to die. She was done... done playing soldier. She didn't want to do it anymore. It wasn't fun anymore. Grandpa Starkey was dead. Grandma Otik was dead. Her mother was dead. The three strongest ponies she knew. Dead. She was going to die too. She could never match any of them, and their skill and strength hadn't saved them. What chance did she have?
Her eyelids clench shut as she stifles a small cry. Why? Why had this happened? Why did good ponies have to die? For a moment she considers cursing Luna's name at the injustice of it all, but she checks the thought. She'd once heard her mother say that there was no justice in this world. That was not long after they arrived at Glitterglen. Only now was she seeing it though. Her mother was right. There was no justice in this world. There never had been, and there never would be. She was going to be cut down just like the others, and there didn't have to be a reason. It would just happen, like an apple falling from a tree.
The crying grows to a just audible level before she manages to contain it. She didn't want to wake Adamant up. That was why they both laid awkwardly on top of the covers, where he'd fallen asleep and where she'd laid motionlessly and silently ever since. She didn't want to disturb him. He was such a good pony... a good friend... a good listener... he didn't deserve to be dragged down with her right now. He'd heard it all just hours ago anyway. He'd listened as she wept and complained about the wrongness of it, comforted her when she told him how scared she was... he'd said all the right things. He was doing all he could. It wasn't fair to him to drag him down anyway.
Her frown slowly changes to the slightest hint of a sad smile. She loved this pony. This stallion. There couldn't be anypony else for her. Who else would listen to her gripe and cry like this? And do so much to help her get through it?
She blinks weakly and wipes her tears on her pillow to refocus her eyes on his sleeping form. Everypony she loved dies... "Don't ever leave me... please Addy..." she whispers.
Post by: DVNO on March 22, 2012, 08:03:20 pm
Couth snorted at Charity's confidence in that statement. It's not impossible, just extremely hard. Couth's been trying for five years. five long, excruciating years. he couldn't count the number of times he's failed just a hair's breath. but now the schemes are all coming together, nothing was going to stop him this time. well, except for one tiny, little thing. it's negligible, it won't be a problem.
Couth floats inches away from Charity's face. "Nothing's going to save you from my little warpath this time, Charity. not Celestia, Not Luna, Not Discord, not some freak hand of fate, and most certainly not your band of friends, half of witch are my friends now. speaking of.."
Couth looks at Friesden and Khenal in their loving caress. Now there was an idea, why do all the work when Khenal could do it for him? of course Khenal dipping into necromancy and learning from scratch would be slower than his more direct, brute force approach. maybe convincing Friesden to kill herself would speed things up? Not like it would be hard, given her state and her already lucid nature. a possibility. put it on the back-burner. always room for a plan B. anyway, sister.
Couth drifts down to the dungeons. Willow was in the middle of chaining her captive to a wall via cuffs.
"ya think ya scare me? you ain't nothin'. you canna dew noth'in ta me. " the Diomidian growled.
Willow cocked an eyebrow "How do ya figure?"
"Now' imma' polititical prisona' anna I demand ta' be treated as such! you canna hurt me too bad if ya plan on trad'in or sellin me." he shouted, demanding a little respect.
"Ha, after what you've done? do you even Know who your warband even killed? No, this fort's yer last stop, I can almost guarantee that. you hava lotta questions ta answer." she told him in a assured tone.
"I Should thank you, really. you've given just the opportunity to show the Duchess mah... Unique talents I learned from tha mob."
The Diomidian gulped. " An' what talent's are those?"
Willow grins and pushes a cart with all sorts of nasty, sharp objects in into his view.
"Information gatheri'n an'a Personal security! a' least tha' wat I put on the resume."
'oh no, she's acclimating here!' Couth gasped. 'This is not good, how long can she go before she mutters her last name to somepony!?' he need to intervene. couth grabbed an adamantine hook off the table and carved something on the dungeon wall he was sure would get his message across.
NOT SAFE - DM
"waht, the Hells is that?" the tenticle pony gasped.
"that's... I message from my brother! see the initials! I knew something wasn't on tha up n' up! I would have bumped inta him by now!"
'Yes! that's it!'
" he's in Danger! I need ta' stay until I find em. can't be anythin' else."
Couth coughed up a fit of rage. well he tried she's on her own now. the hour was getting late, he needs to leave with Falcata and company soon. you do not piss Luna off.
Post by: Telgin on March 23, 2012, 12:09:30 am
As she sits on her bed and stares into her marred reflection in its surface, she again thinks back to what happened the previous day. She begins wiping away the grime on its surface, her thoughts changing to her mother instead of the more recent death. She hadn't made her mother proud at all. First she'd thrown herself at an opponent she was hopelessly incapable of beating, and taken the results she deserved. And now, she'd let her fear hold her back in the single most devastating attack she'd known of in Glitterglen, and now her grandpa was dead too.
She looks up briefly to the magical chest sitting off in the corner of the room. The one that contained her mother's final words to everypony, which still held her final words to Thundersplinters, who would never get to read them. She rereads the last few lines in her head. Her mother said she'd always be watching over her. She couldn't help but wonder if she'd seen this failure.
She hadn't made anypony proud. "...I... I'm sorry mom... I failed... I let you down..." she says, trying to find the motivation to finish polishing her hammer. "And I'm sorry to you too, grandma and grandpa... I... if I'd been there with you... you two might be alive too..."
A tear drips onto the grimy silver surface of the hammer, and a sniffle passes her lips as she begins wiping it away with the rest of the grit. "I'm so sorry..."
Only steps away, but eternally out of sight, Falcata and Estoc watch the heartwrenching scene. They hold each other and take turns consoling the other. Falcata watches in emotional torment as her daughter begins crying again. "You haven't let me down Kris... by the Sisters I'm proud of you..."
Estoc continues rubbing her back and nods slowly. "She's made me so proud too..."
Finally Falcata turns her eyes away and says, "...I... I really don't know how much more of this I can take..."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 23, 2012, 11:13:33 pm
"Oh, Falcata... I was wondering where you'd got to."
He steps through into the room. Otik, however, emerges from the wall just beside him.
"Ye know ye dun' hafta do that anymore, hun."
"I know, but... it just feels right. How is she?"
Post by: DVNO on March 23, 2012, 11:14:29 pm
"Nah Willow, there's nothing to worry about! The Captain won't bite." she assured herself.
She looked down at the lengthy report she wrote, filled with Diomidian battle tactics, group numbers, weapons, background information on the monster that Killed Starkey, and anything else useful she could rip out of her captive.
"just let the work speak for itself."
She opens the door.
"Uh, Captian Khenal? are you busy? It's a' recruit Willow, the Uh, new girl. I have something for yah."
Post by: Telgin on March 23, 2012, 11:22:46 pm
Kris is still polishing the hammer as they look on. She chokes again and pauses long enough to let a few fresh tears form in her eyes. "I'm so sorry, grandpa..." she repeats as she starts polishing it again.
Post by: Impending Doom on March 23, 2012, 11:37:56 pm
"Stars, hun..."
"Oh, Otik... I was too slow... I failed. Failed her, failed Friesden, Heiro..."
She pulls him close, holding him.
Post by: Telgin on March 23, 2012, 11:51:42 pm
She stands still for a few seconds, trying and failing to contain her emotions. Finally, she manages to level herself, and she takes the hammer with her magic. "...better go report for duty..." she says under her breath before heading for the door.
Falcata and Estoc's expressions grown even more concerned as they watch her leave. Falcata wipes her eyes and shakes her head. "...this is killing me..."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 23, 2012, 11:59:33 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 24, 2012, 12:11:46 am
She nods slowly. "I... think you're right..."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 24, 2012, 12:20:25 am
"What do you mean? How is that possible?"
Post by: Telgin on March 24, 2012, 12:24:52 am
Falcata nods. "Yes... we've already spoken to Friesden and Khenal. I... I should have spoken to Kris before now... but I was scared to. I didn't know what I'd tell her... or... or if she'd want to join me..."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 24, 2012, 12:36:22 am
"This... is this true?"
"Aye, hun. It is."
She hangs her head.
"I... I wos afraid ye'd want t'join us too. I'm so sorry."
Post by: Telgin on March 24, 2012, 12:46:59 am
*******
Kris wasn't sure why Venture had called for her to come to the hospital. She'd checked out just fine the day before. Maybe it was just to check on her hoof. It wasn't any worse at least...
As she enters the hospital, she finds Venture standing with Friesden. "Um, you wanted to see me?"
"Yes, Kris, there's somepony who wants to talk to you. Just sit tight for a moment." Her horn glows briefly, and Kris feels her perception of the world shift in a way that was impossible to explain. She blinks a few times... unwilling to believe what she was seeing. "V-Venture... what... what is this?" She takes a step backward, mouth hanging open and astonishment on her face.
Falcata steps forward, giving her a sad smile. "Kris... it's us. We wanted to talk to you..." She steps forward and moves to hug her.
"M-mom...?" Kris responds in disbelief.
Post by: Dsarker on March 24, 2012, 01:06:27 am
Friesden rushes forward to her dad and embraces him in a hug. "Dad! I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry, I should have been there, I could have helped, I could have saved you, I'm so sorry! Please, tell me you forgive me, please? I know I don't deserve it, but please, please, forgive me!"
Post by: Impending Doom on March 24, 2012, 01:11:11 am
"Oh Friesden, I'm so sorry! If I'd only been fast enough, or strong enough...I never wanted to leave you, Friesden."
Post by: Dsarker on March 24, 2012, 01:16:14 am
Post by: Impending Doom on March 24, 2012, 01:24:24 am
Post by: Telgin on March 24, 2012, 01:26:25 am
Falcata clutches her tightly and is silent for some time. "It's just like I told you, honey... I was here the whole time, watching you. And I found out somepony else was here too..." She makes a small motion to Estoc. "Do you remember him?"
Kris blinks in renewed disbelief. Was it... could it be...? "D... dad?"
"That's right," he says, stepping over and joining in the hug. "I've been with the two of you the whole time."
Kris doesn't know what to say or do. She just holds the embrace and begins sobbing. Finally, she manages to say, "Oh, mom... I've missed you so much... so, so much..."
"I know honey... I know..." She strokes Kris' mane. "I've missed you too..."
"As have I," Estoc adds. "I'm so proud of you Kris... you've grown up so much..."
Kris doesn't know how to respond to that. She felt like such a failure... and she still wasn't sure she was completely sane. How did Venture factor into this? What was going on? They... they were still dead, right? Was this their... souls? For the moment, she really didn't care. She was with her mom... and her dad again. Her real dad... she makes a small noise as she buries herself deeper into their grip.
Post by: Omegaxis on March 24, 2012, 04:23:26 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 24, 2012, 05:40:33 am
Post by: Khenal on March 24, 2012, 02:48:05 pm
I look up from my desk, glad to have any distraction from the paperwork that I thought I had escaped so long ago.
"Hello Willow, how are you doing?"
I notice the stack of papers she has and my pupils shrink, fearing she has even more paperwork for me.
"What's... what's that?"
Post by: DVNO on March 24, 2012, 09:01:26 pm
"This, Cap, Is a' 'nalysis of our battle with tha' Diomidians. It's got every'ing, Includin' a few strategies for next time."
She hands the report over eagerly
"ya see, a brave soldier fights tha' enemy. A smart soldier learns tha' enemy."
Post by: Khenal on March 24, 2012, 09:44:43 pm
"I agree, Willow. Knowledge is power. This information is amazing, I'll be sure to pass this along to the Militia. How did you get this information, though? Have you been scouting into the jungle?"
Post by: DVNO on March 24, 2012, 10:12:47 pm
"Oh, let's jus' say our Diomidian captive took a real nasty tumble down some steps on the way to the dungeons. barely hangin' by a thread, you might want ta' put em out of 'is misery."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 24, 2012, 10:19:57 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 24, 2012, 10:27:02 pm
My expression hardens as I look her in the eyes.
"Take care moving any other captives, Willow. 'Unfortunate accidents' are unbecoming."
I stand to leave the office.
"Come with me then, Willow. I want you with me while I see to this Diomedian's... misery."
Post by: Dsarker on March 24, 2012, 10:28:28 pm
Post by: Omegaxis on March 24, 2012, 11:22:46 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 24, 2012, 11:38:54 pm
She hesitates in guilt. There was no particularly good reason. "I was afraid of what might happen." She nervously looks off in the direction of Friesden before returning her attention to Kris. "I... was afraid you'd... you'd..."
Kris cocks her head. What, kill herself? It was true that she felt like dying the day that her mother did, but she'd never really considered killing herself. "...mom... to know that you're okay... that's all I could have ever wanted." She smiles and gives her mother another squeeze before backing out of the hug. Her eyes move between her two deceased parents, then to her grandparents standing off next to Friesden. "I guess it's true, what they say. You really are in a better place, aren't you?"
Falcata and Estoc exchange uneasy glances. "Actually, honey... that's something I wanted to talk to you about," Falcata says, fiddling with the key dangling from her neck. "I... I haven't faced Luna yet." She again gives Estoc a worried glance. "But... she's sent for me... I can't put it off much longer..."
"That... what does that mean, exactly?" Kris asks.
Her mother shakes her head and continues to jostle the key nervously. "I really don't know." She lays a hoof on Kris' withers. "...but I might not be able to see you again... I just don't know..."
Kris lowers her head, and her ears droop slightly. She'd just been reunited with her mother and father, and now she was finding out she might not see them again. Not until she died herself, anyway. Or maybe never? What was the afterlife really like? "I... understand. Seeing you again, even once... that's more than I could have hoped for."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 26, 2012, 12:43:30 am
"No, little one... you are the only pony who deserves it."
Post by: Dsarker on March 26, 2012, 12:50:16 am
Post by: Telgin on March 26, 2012, 01:14:55 am
Post by: Impending Doom on March 26, 2012, 02:09:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 26, 2012, 02:13:38 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on March 26, 2012, 02:33:35 pm
Starkey looks to Venture.
Post by: Khenal on March 26, 2012, 02:59:07 pm
"It's a fairly simple spell, I'd be happy to cast it for you, Friesden." She says, smiling at her friend.
Post by: Dsarker on March 26, 2012, 03:36:03 pm
Post by: Omegaxis on March 26, 2012, 10:45:15 pm
Post by: Telgin on March 27, 2012, 12:05:24 am
The four deceased ponies remain with Friesden and Kris until the wee hours in the morning, talking with their loved ones about everything they could think of. Eventually Friesden and Kris begin to succumb to the rigors of a mortal body and grow drowsy. It won't be long before they drift to sleep, and the spell that lets them see and interact with the dead breaks.
All the while, Falcata continuously fiddles with the key hanging from her neck, and by the time the two are nearly asleep, her expression is that of somepony who would be facing execution. She continues to look at the door of the hospital, wondering how much longer she could put this off... was putting it off making things worse?
Post by: Omegaxis on March 27, 2012, 12:10:21 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 12:58:40 am
Post by: Telgin on March 27, 2012, 01:07:29 am
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 01:10:55 am
Post by: Telgin on March 27, 2012, 01:19:38 am
Keeping her face free of the nervousness wracking her was difficult by this point, but she manages for the most part. This was easily the most frightened she'd ever been. If... if Luna did turn her away... could she come back? Or, would she be consigned to eternal torment for her sins?
The trembling is all but impossible to keep under control by this point, but still she manages.
Post by: Impending Doom on March 27, 2012, 01:26:10 am
"If you... can't come back... I want you to know you were one of the finest warriors I ever knew. I would have been proud to have you marry my son."
Post by: Telgin on March 27, 2012, 01:36:23 am
Perhaps not the best way to show her thanks, but she was almost beside herself with fear by this point. She thinks for a moment... this was only going to happen once... she didn't know how much good it might do, but it couldn't hurt to ask... With her mouth near his ear, she whispers, "I... I might be back soon... f-for good... if... if you w-would... say a prayer for me... please...."
Post by: Impending Doom on March 27, 2012, 01:42:13 am
"A dozen prayers, every day until I know for sure."
Post by: Telgin on March 27, 2012, 02:12:08 am
She gives each pony in the room a final farewell, especially Kris. She holds her daughter for what feels like an eternity, but is only a minute at most. "Whatever happens, honey, know that what I said was true. I'll love you forever."
Kris hugs both of her parents a final time, holding them for at least as long as Falcata's initial hug. "I love you two too, no matter what happens." She gives her mother a sad smile and adds, "Don't worry mom. You've been the best mom I could have asked for. I know you'll be okay." She turns the smile to Estoc. "You too dad. I wish I could have gotten to know you better, but I know you'll be okay too."
Falcata wished she was so confident herself, but she accepts her daughter's soothing words as much as she can. This would happen either way, and there was no need to upset Kris if it was avoidable. She nuzzles Kris and says, "Thank you, honey. You've been the best daughter I could have asked for too."
Estoc nods in agreement and strokes Kris' mane. "I'm very proud of you Kris, you've grown to be a wonderful young mare." He squeezes her one last time before the family breaks their group hug. "And we'll be back to see you sometime. We'll have all of the time we need to get to know each other."
With the final goodbyes given and emotions let loose, Falcata and Estoc wearily make their way back down to the caverns where she lost her life. There, still where it had been at that fateful moment, was the shaft of moonlight extending up into the cavern ceiling. The light was growing dim, and Otik's was only slightly more visible than hers. Couth was nowhere to be seen, but she knew he'd be there at the worst possible moment.
With all of the determination she could muster, she forces herself to step into the light with her husband. The two hold hooves like teenagers as they ascend up the shaft of ethereal energy, and for a moment Falcata imagines she feels a moment of peace. The same calming sensation that engulfed her the moment she died, taking away all of her pain. The world vanishes in a flash of light as the two reach the ceiling of the cavern, and they find themselves standing in what appears to be an infinite wasteland, disrupted only by an equally massive looking walled city just ahead.
Her hooves feel heavy again as she steps forward, and the two nervously make their way toward the city. Their moment was at hoof.
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 06:39:38 pm
Slowly, she opens the door, and leaves the house. She had a plan. Her true love, her very reason for being, had been complaining about one thing, over and over.
The paperwork.
Slowly, making sure nopony notices, she makes her way into his office, and meets the grim pile of papers. An opening skirmish marks the beginning of the grand conflict, and she quickly beats back the first advances of the mighty foe. Her divisions race ahead, and cut straight through the enemy's front line, before pushing forward once more and securing a victory.
She finishes the paperwork quick smart, and waits in the office for Khenal to come, hiding.
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 06:44:53 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 06:46:04 pm
"Surprise! I did your paperwork for you!"
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 06:50:14 pm
"You... did the paperwork?"
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 06:51:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 06:57:25 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 07:01:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 09:43:35 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 09:57:47 pm
"AYE, what do ya want?"
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 10:06:19 pm
'I guess they're a bit stressed about the new position.'
"To talk? If you're not busy, at least."
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 10:11:29 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 10:14:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 10:16:34 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 10:24:39 pm
"Ah, good. I was just hoping to meet the new Captain of the Skyguard."
I reach a hoof over the desk to shake in introduction.
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 10:29:18 pm
"So... why exactly did you want to shake my hoof?"
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 10:44:48 pm
I bow slightly as I say so, trying to remember my manners after such an awkward start.
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 10:47:46 pm
"Please don't bow... Oh, and I'm Jaxler"
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 10:49:14 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 11:11:51 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 11:13:45 pm
Friesden lowers her head into Khenal's wing.
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 11:15:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 11:17:49 pm
"So... how's the position treating you so far?"
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 11:26:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 11:48:29 pm
"Um... Well, you must be a bust stallion, Captain Jaxler. We'll just get out of your mane."
My horn glows as I open the door again.
Post by: jaxler on March 27, 2012, 11:52:44 pm
Post by: Dsarker on March 27, 2012, 11:54:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on March 27, 2012, 11:58:09 pm
"It's alright, Friesden. He said you didn't do anything to apologize for, so you did nothing wrong. He's just not... very social, apparently."
Post by: Omegaxis on March 28, 2012, 01:19:34 am
Post by: Telgin on March 28, 2012, 01:57:10 am
Inside, he was hardly so sure of himself. He hadn't done anything he could think of in his life to condemn his soul, but as always with situations like this, how could one be totally confident? He hadn't been particular pious in life... he hoped Luna would pity him for the good he'd tried to do.
But really, he did worry for Falcata. He'd never show his unease to her, since even a blind and deaf pony could sense how terrified she was, but what would they do if she was turned away? If she was just cast away, doomed to walk the earth for eternity... he... he would stay with her. It would be giving up more than was even imaginable to give up paradise if he got in and she didn't, but he'd kept his sanity for six years alone watching her and Kris. With her by his side again, he could manage. And with Starkey and Otik to talk to, they wouldn't be alone. Not that he knew them well, but in time he would.
If she was condemned... to some eternal torture... he probably wouldn't be allowed to join her even if he wanted to. As much as he loved her... that wasn't something he could suffer through with her willingly. He felt terrible for thinking it, but that was just too much. No sane pony walked into eternal torture.
He shunned the horrifying thoughts and rests a hoof on her withers as they reach the door. She would be fine. The mare might have killed three ponies, but the monster that had killed him deserved it. The other two might not, but Falcata had nearly given her life once to save somepony and did give her life trying to save over a hundred more. If that didn't excuse her in the eyes of Luna, nothing would. He'd argue her case to his last breath, if Darkmane was serious and that was his job. He'd worry about himself after she had been judged. "It's going to be alright, I promise."
Falcata nods, but doesn't smile. That was what he was expected to say, so of course he'd say it whether he meant it or not. But she appreciated the gesture, even if she didn't know if she believed it would be true. Even with all Captain Starkey had done for her, she didn't have much confidence that this would go well. At best she could hope that Luna would have some pity on her soul and save her from the worst fates...
With a trembling hoof, she reaches up and raps at the door, scarcely making a sound. Estoc reaches up to steady her hoof and gives it a loud knock. They had to get this over with. It was now, not never.
The great doors swing open with a low groan, and backlight by overbearing golden light stands a small filly. The filly steps forward, revealing herself to be a dark colored alicorn. As she exits the grand city, the door closes behind her. A small, innocent smile forms on her face as she looks up to the two new arrivals. "Hello, you must be Falcata and Estoc! I'm glad you finally made it." She looks to Estoc. "I've been waiting a really long time to talk to you!"
The two are dumbstricken for a moment. This... this filly was Luna Herself? Falcata gawps for a moment before she notices Estoc kneeling beside her, and she falls to a knee hastily. "L-Luna! Forgive me, I-I didn't recognize you!"
Luna smiles a bit wider and nods. "Oh, everypony says that." She raises a hoof to the two and motions for them to stand up. "Come on, we've got a lot to talk about!"
The terror in her heart was now replaced by overwhelming curiosity. Was this really happening? Luna had the appearance of a child... how would she be judged? Was that what she meant? The two stand as they are instructed and begin to follow the little filly as she leads them off.
Post by: DVNO on March 28, 2012, 10:26:53 am
"Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right! an' here I am! stuck in the middle with you! Trying to make some sense of it all, But I can see that it makes no sense at all, Is it cool to go to sleep on the floor, 'Cause I don't think that I can take anymore" he sang.
He glances at Estoc and Starkey.
"Clowns to the left of me,"
He Glances at Luna
"Jokers to the right,"
He finally rested on Falcata
"Here I am, stuck in the middle with you. Need a watch-piece, Falcata? I thought it was going to be a no-contest for a second there. now, It's just going to be easy."
Post by: Telgin on March 28, 2012, 02:14:39 pm
Well, he had to show up eventually. True to his word, Couth was there, ready to prosecute her and do his best to condemn her soul. Whether it was out of some pact he'd formed in the afterlife or out of pure hatred for her and everything she held dear, she neither knew nor cared.
She narrows her eyes at him briefly before she thought better of it. If there was anything that would hurt her chances here, she didn't want to risk it. That included looking like a hotheaded or tossing petty insults like a child. Instead, she offers a cool expression. "We'll see."
There was nothing she could do to change what she'd done, and she had no doubt that Couth knew every last thing she did. Killing the thieves, nearly killing Thunder Splinters, and even probably every white lie she'd told and every time she'd done something as petty as tease her brother or sister. Luna surely knew it all too. This was probably just a formality. Or a test for her, of sorts. She wouldn't mar her chances by lying. And Estoc would stand with her, she knew it.
((And I have absolutely no idea how this should proceed. Opening remarks from Couth or Luna, or what?))
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 07:26:14 pm
"Aye, I kinda need to talk to Charity."
Post by: Khenal on March 28, 2012, 07:38:25 pm
"Alright Captain. Give me a sec to see if she's busy."
I open the door to peek in on Lady Charity.
"Charity? Are you busy? Captain Jaxler would like to speak with you if you have a moment."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 07:45:43 pm
Spoiler: Picture by Kryptid (click to show/hide)
Charity is happily munching on a cupcake when the door begins to open. Fearing it might be her husband, and not wanting him to know she was cheating on her latest failed diet, she quickly shoves it into her desk, before looking up, innocently. Hearing Khenal's voice she makes a sigh of relief.
"oh, send him in. I have a few minutes to spare."
Post by: Khenal on March 28, 2012, 07:52:05 pm
I point a hoof at my own mouth to show where she's got a smudge of something, then turn back to Jaxler and step to the side, allowing him passage.
"She'll see you now, Captain."
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 07:56:55 pm
Jaxler then walked into the office, and sat down in a chair.
"So... charity, I need to talk to you about something important."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 08:04:08 pm
Charity looks at Jaxler, smiling, "Of course Captain, what would you like to discuss?"
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 08:06:22 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 08:17:52 pm
"Did you not already receive a raise when you were made Captain? Your salary should be what Otik made during her first year. <Amount Redacted> a week."
Charity shuffules some papers and finds the one she was looking for.
"Yes, that's what is says you are being paid on my records. Are you saying that that isn't enough for you?"
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 08:22:03 pm
"Damn, your telling me that she lived off that mcuh? I'm amazed she never complained. Anyway I still need more money."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 08:29:02 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 08:37:10 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 08:44:48 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 08:48:11 pm
"Well... the fact that I didn't die."
Post by: DVNO on March 28, 2012, 09:09:15 pm
"you know, Duchess, the colt has a point. It strikes me odd that even though the milita's forces have been struck in half, the pay hasn't doubled. some hazard pay and a COLA would be nice."
Post by: DVNO on March 28, 2012, 10:31:37 pm
Couth quickly ushered the three away from the god's prying eyes
"Look, You don't like me, And I sure as buck don't like you, but Damnit! IF we work together we can go back! I have A plan! The old gods made a way back, A backdoor back into the mortal life! But the Catch!? why do I need you?" He hisses
"Elements only. So, what do you say, element of loyalty? I show you the way, you open the door, all of us leave this place free ponies! you can see you daughter again!"
Post by: Telgin on March 28, 2012, 10:55:21 pm
"You're insane..." she begins. It was hardly unlikely, given what she'd seen happen to Carrot. Being dead didn't seem to do his mind much good. "...and... even if you were telling the truth... how could such a thing be possible? What cost would there be? And what of Luna?" She motions back in the direction of the alicorn filly. "If I feared facing her now, how could I face her after doing such a thing?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 10:59:03 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 11:04:46 pm
Post by: DVNO on March 28, 2012, 11:05:58 pm
she glances at Charity's cupcake drawer
"I'm sure ther' er some royal expenditures that could'a be cut if'a looked. but hey! My opinion don't matter."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 11:15:45 pm
It had been several years since Otik had lived on the salary, Glitterglen had grow so much. A cost of living increase for the military wouldn't be unreasonable, especially since they actually had things worth buying in town now. Doubling was still ridiculous, but a raise wasn't really outlandish. She quickly does some math in her head, Glitterglen had a surplus at the moment, they could afford it, she looks to the Captain. "Okay Captain, you can have your raise, the rest of the army too. A flat 10% increase across the board. Call it a Cost of Living Adjustment. You'll see the change in your next weeks pay. Is that all Captain?"
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 11:24:07 pm
"I guess it is."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on March 28, 2012, 11:28:45 pm
Post by: jaxler on March 28, 2012, 11:31:47 pm
Post by: DVNO on March 29, 2012, 12:50:55 am
Post by: Telgin on March 29, 2012, 12:57:24 am
Post by: DVNO on March 29, 2012, 01:16:06 am
I. am. going. to the surface. Follow me, stop me, or get out of the way."
Couth Strides to the bench, pulls out a bottle of spirits, downs it, and spouts a arc of ethereal alcoholic flame four feet into the air.
"Luna, I'm ready." he growled through gritted teeth.
Post by: Telgin on March 29, 2012, 01:24:27 am
Falcata lowers her head in deference and takes her place alongside Estoc.
"Okay, let's get started," Luna says, turning her attention to Couth. "Let's hear from you first."
Post by: DVNO on March 30, 2012, 12:19:26 am
Post by: Telgin on March 30, 2012, 01:21:09 am
Post by: DVNO on April 01, 2012, 11:47:15 pm
"... And so , In summary, Did Falcata do what she needed to do in order to protect the ones she loved? She did. was what she did to the three ponies, her inability to stop commissar Abel from massacring thirteen ponies, what she did to me unexcusible? Damn right they are. she's was a necessary evil, yet an evil none the less. And luna, we all know where we put evil things, right?! simply put you should have never picked up the hammer Falcata, should have picked any other profession that could have benefited equestrian society, really. but no, had to attack others for a sense of vindication, and for that , you signed away your soul. I rest my case, luna." Couth wheezed in exasperation, his verbal onslaught taking a physical toll.
Post by: Telgin on April 02, 2012, 12:42:13 am
Falcata opens her mouth to speak, but only a frightened squeak emerges at first. Finally, after a weary and nervous pat from Estoc, she manages, "I... I know I did some bad things." She looks up to Luna, a pleading expression on her face. "But... that's why... why I took up the hammer when Charity presented me the choice." She hangs her head again. "When I was sent to Glitterglen, I accepted I was sent there to die for my crimes. I decided... that I'd give my life if I had to to right the wrongs I'd committed."
She takes a deep breath and with difficulty, continues, "There wasn't a day that went by that I didn't hate myself for what I'd done. For killing some ponies who probably didn't deserve it. For dragging my innocent daughter to the death trap I was sent to. For nearly killing myself when the depression was more than I could bear."
The pleading expression returns to her face, and she takes a step toward Luna. "That's why I gave my life trying to help ponies and protect them. It's why, even when I was so sick... and hurt so much I could barely speak... that I fought on. That's why, when we faced him," she punctuates with a hoof to Couth, "I decided that if anypony had to die it would be me. That's why I threw myself in the way to save Charity." Faint traces of tears began to form in her eyes. "That's why I fought to protect over a hundred ponies from every last thing that attacked Glitterglen... be it horrifying monsters from below, the diomedians from above, or even the misguided zebras."
She pauses for a moment. "...and that's why... as much as I loved my daughter... and all of my friends... I gave my life in the hopes that there would be the slimmest of chances they would live where I did not. If I were called on again to give my life that any of them would live, and I could do it, I would." Once more, she lowers her head. "I've spent every waking moment of my miserable life trying to make amends for the wrongs that I'd done. Perhaps even a lifetime of penance can't make up for it..."
Luna's expression grows more sorrowful as she listens. "That's really sad..." she says, lowering her head as well for a moment. "I didn't really know what to do with you. You did do some bad things, but you're really sorry. Even still... the rules are that you should be punished for what you did..."
Falcata's eyes go wide as the sentencing begins. The sisters couldn't... wouldn't help her now... she was going to be turned away... even after spending her life trying to make up for it, she was going to be turned away... if only she'd been more pious... there was surely something she should have done... something else to make up for it... some law from Luna...
Luna thinks for a moment more, squinting in Falcata's direction. "...I... I think I know what to do now..." She nods slowly, a small smile forming on her face again. "I heard a testimony from somepony else too... somepony who isn't here. He says that you're a good pony Falcata, and he's a good pony. He always follows all of my rules, and I try to listen to him when he talks to me. He says you're a good pony... so... I think... I think I forgive you."
Falcata's eyes go wide again, and she imagines she feels faint despite being dead. She stammers for an extended period before kneeling before Luna. "Th-thank you! Oh, thank you Luna!"
Luna's innocent smile returns to her face as she steps forward. "You're welcome! Now... I think there's something I need to go tell him, and I think I want you to come too. I forgive you, but there's a catch... I'll tell you then..."
((Not sure if I can respond any more tonight, or if we need to collaborate to coordinate the next part. Couth can sputter in disbelief, or whatever. :D))
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 10:43:20 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 10:58:38 pm
"Hello Friesden, how are you today?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 10:59:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 11:01:47 pm
"Off? How so?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 11:25:04 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 11:30:06 pm
"Hmm, do you think you caught something? Or maybe ate something that didn't agree with you?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 11:31:28 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 11:34:24 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 11:35:45 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 11:45:46 pm
"Temperature normal... hormones a little odd, but nothing serious... respiration normal... digestive tract normal... heartbeat... Huh?"
Venture's scan picks up a strange heartbeat pattern, like a small echo to her regular beat. She follows the echoes down to her abdomen, then breaks the spell, shocked.
"Friesden! You're pregnant!"
Post by: Dsarker on April 02, 2012, 11:47:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 02, 2012, 11:52:07 pm
"It looks like Triplets! Friesden, it's so wonderful! You're going to be a mother!"
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 12:01:25 am
"TRIPLETS?" she yells in a voice happier than physically possible. "Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you! This is the best day ever ever ever!"
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 12:19:38 am
I pause in my spar with Lord Cryptson, signalling him to hold for a moment. I raise a hoof to rub at my ear, as it just started ringing. And it's not stopping. I set down my spear to rub harder at my ear, looking to Cryptson.
"Do you hear something?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 12:24:16 am
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 12:29:58 am
"What... Pregnant? Really?!"
I smile wide at my wife and wrap her in my wings, nuzzling at her in happiness.
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 12:33:01 am
Post by: DVNO on April 03, 2012, 12:37:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 12:53:54 am
"Ah... Hello Venture. Have you seen Friesden today?"
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 12:57:21 am
*Yes, I have! She just ran off to find Khenal and give him the good news! She's pregnant! With triplets!*
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 01:00:14 am
She makes a gesture at Falcata. "First off, I'm going to have her watch out for all of the ponies who die in Glitterglen. She'll see to it that they all come here and don't wait around longer than they should. Sometimes that makes them more sad, and I don't like that." She raises a hoof to her chin. "Just for a little while. Unless she likes it, then she can do it as long as she wants!"
Luna takes a step toward the two and adds, "Oh, and the second thing, is I'm going to teach you two to get along!" A grin forms on her face. "I'm going to have Falcata hang around with you for a while and do stuff you ask her to! Not bad stuff... just good stuff, but she's going to be your helper for a while!"
Falcata's face goes through a few curious expressions at the revelation, but she maintains her dignity for the most part. "...I... uh... of course, Luna, whatever you wish."
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 01:02:47 am
"Fantastic! Incredible! Amazing!"
Starkey is practically dancing.
"Where is she now? C'n we go spak t'her?"
Post by: DVNO on April 03, 2012, 01:10:35 am
"as long as she retains her element of loyalty, this is a glorious conquest of justice. your wisdom knows no bound 's's." Couth tried everything in his power to stifle a snicker at 'bounds'.
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 01:17:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 01:41:50 am
The two of them dash off through the far wall, towards the arena. As they enter, Starkey catches sight of Friesden and dashes forward, lifting her into the air in a tight hug.
"Ohsistersmylittleponyweheardallaboutitit'ssowonderfulI'msoproudofyouIloveyousomuch!"
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 01:44:07 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 01:46:57 am
"Yes, my little pony... today is the best day of my li-... existence. I'm so happy for you."
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 01:58:48 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 02:01:08 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 02:03:16 am
Starkey glances towards the night princess, and his eyes go wide a saucers. He breaks the hug and bows deeply. Otik follows suit.
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 02:04:38 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 02:12:15 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 02:14:18 am
"T-thank you... It warms my heart to know you are pleased with me, milady. What news do you bring?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 03, 2012, 02:22:04 am
He looked at Khenal who seemed to be taking all this as normal. "What? What the buck is going on!" he says audibly, in a very un-Cryptson-like way.
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 02:25:47 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 02:29:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 02:30:52 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 03, 2012, 02:35:57 am
Post by: DVNO on April 03, 2012, 02:40:58 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 03, 2012, 02:47:53 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 02:54:53 am
As Couth calls out to Cryptson and the stallion draws his pick, she raises a hoof to forestall him. "Your anger is justified, but punishment for this stallion is mine to give." She turns an icy glare to Couth. "And do not taunt my faithful followers, lest I teach you a lesson you will never forget in all of eternity."
She returns her attention to Starkey. "As I was saying, I have come with some news for you all." She motions back to Falcata, who was sitting silently next to Luna, and says, "First, I would say that I have heard your pleas, and I have spared Falcata's soul. She has done wrong in her life, but she and you have convinced me that her sins have not been too grave for forgiveness."
Falcata smiles toward Starkey, and gives him a small nod.
"Next... I wish to present my faithful servant with a gift..." She motions to Starkey. "Another chance at life."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 02:56:45 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 02:58:54 am
"T-That... is a most generous gift, milady... but what of my love, Otik? Is she to return with me as well?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 03, 2012, 03:05:08 am
Pushing the thoughts of vengeance from his mind, he instead looks at Falcata, she was even more beautiful than he remembered her being, he repressed the desire to bolt up and hug her, as he knew that would be most improper, and instead he just listens. Content with the knowledge that Luna had forgiven her.
Cryptson looks over to Starkey. Starkey was a good friend, and a very faithful pony, if any pony deserved resurrection, it would be him. But no small part of the earthpony Lord wished it could be Falcata instead. Though he dare not speak his thoughts on the matter.
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 03:07:33 am
"I can only return these two to life." She lowers her head slightly. "I am sorry."
Falcata's jaw goes slack at the goddess's words, but she holds in her thoughts. She... could return to life? With Starkey? But... not Otik? Or Estoc?
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 03:10:50 am
Starkey steadies himself, and moves to Otik's side.
"T-Then I will not go. I am sorry milady, but that is too high a price."
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 03:16:56 am
Finally, she musters a heroic amount of courage to speak up to the goddess before her. "L-Luna?"
The alicorn turns her attention to the mare. "Yes?"
"Could Otik go in my place? Could I give her my Loyalty?"
Post by: DVNO on April 03, 2012, 03:27:04 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 03:38:07 am
Post by: DVNO on April 03, 2012, 03:51:00 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 04:02:34 am
Falcata gives Otik a small, sad smile. Words couldn't convey how much she wanted to be with her daughter again... but her mind was made up. She'd made mistakes in her life, but she was going to truly make up for it now. Starkey and Otik deserved another chance... a chance to live the life she had already had in so many ways. "Otik..." she trails off for a moment, before she gathers her thoughts. "...it's okay. Please take it. You deserve it. A lot more than I do."
She gestures to herself. "I'm more than a decade older than you. I've had my chance to marry... to have a child... and to watch her grow up into a wonderful young mare. Kris isn't a foal anymore, as much as I may have treated her like one. She's grown stronger than I could have ever hoped for... and if I read her right she's deeply in love with Adamant. She'll soon have a family of her own." She smiles weakly. "I know she misses me, but she's her own mare now."
As she raises a hoof toward Otik, she feels a curious sensation flow down her leg. A hovering, ethereal image signifying Loyalty forms above her hoof. "I've made some big mistakes in my life. But the worst mistake either of you have made is being brave soldiers. Willing to lay down your lives like all soldiers should, but which so few can really do willingly." She motions the image toward Otik again. "Your lives ended too early... and you both deserve a chance to live them to the extent I have. You've both been good friends and inspirations to me... better than I ever deserved. Please... let me return the favor..."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 04:03:32 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 04:05:49 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 04:07:42 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 04:17:56 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 04:21:16 am
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 12:34:43 pm
She leans in closer to Friesden and adds, "I know you have a deep love for your parents as well as your friend, which they all feel toward you as well. If your mother accepts her offer... I have tasked Falcata with staying in Glitterglen for some time, helping to usher those who lose their lives here on to me. She will always be by your side, and you may see or speak with her whenever you wish, as you have done before."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 03:49:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 05:14:41 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 06:30:18 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 06:39:01 pm
Friesden gives Luna a hug, before spotting Khenal still in the bow.
"I'm so sorry! I almost forgot!"
She runs across to Khenal, almost dragging Luna with her. "This is Khenal, my husband, the best pony ever!"
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 06:49:20 pm
Buck!'
I return to a deep bow as Friesden tries to bring over the goddess Luna, barely able to keep from trembling in her presence.
Post by: Impending Doom on April 03, 2012, 06:52:50 pm
"Oh, Falcata... T'make such a sacrifice as this... Yer a better pony than I could ever hope t'be. Wot could I ever do t'repay this?"
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 07:31:15 pm
Falcata smiles to Otik before cautiously hugging her and Starkey. Even after all of this, she didn't want to overstep herself, but it felt appropriate. "Just make good use of this chance. Tell Kris that I love her... her and Heiro. And watch out for them for me." She pulls back slightly to look both in the eyes for a moment. "I know you will."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 07:42:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 08:04:44 pm
"I'm, um, not so great..."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 08:11:27 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 08:38:32 pm
"I'm not great... realy, I'm not..."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 08:58:40 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 03, 2012, 09:24:58 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 09:33:17 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 09:40:50 pm
"I'll try, goddess."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 09:46:40 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 09:55:30 pm
"Uhh, I thought you were done with... trying to die. Um, I am glad that Falcata will be able to visit, though."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 10:16:30 pm
Tears begin to form in Friesden's eyes, and she buries her face in Khenal's fur.
Post by: Khenal on April 03, 2012, 10:32:26 pm
"It's alright, Friesden. I know you just want to help. It's one of the many, meny things I love about you, my Only Light."
Post by: Dsarker on April 03, 2012, 10:37:48 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 04, 2012, 12:18:35 am
"And... we will be able to see her as well?"
Post by: Telgin on April 04, 2012, 12:23:24 am
Falcata smiles at Starkey and Otik. "Yes, Luna, this is what I wish."
Post by: Dsarker on April 04, 2012, 12:31:54 am
Post by: Telgin on April 04, 2012, 12:55:44 am
Her horn flickers again, and the clay begins to deform and reshape itself in their images. After a few moments, immaculate recreations of the two ponies rest where untouched clay stood, devoid of scars or other imperfections of a life of battle. Luna waves her hoof in the direction of the statues, and wispy images representing Honesty and Loyalty travel from Starkey and Falcata onto the two statues. "As symbols of the most virtuous qualities, I have granted you a second chance at life." She takes a breath, shuts her eyes and breathes onto the statues. The clay slowly fades to reveal flesh, and Luna turns her eyes to the two once more.
"May you now live," she says, and her horn glows a pale silver. At that moment, Starkey and Otik feel faint, and the world shifts around them uncertainly for a moment. Their spirits drift into the new bodies, and when they reawaken, they find their bodies to be changed. No longer ethereal and permeable to the world. They feel real again... and with all that comes with it. A faint feeling of hunger rolls through them.
Luna opens her eyes and turns them to the newly living ponies. "It is done."
Post by: Dsarker on April 04, 2012, 12:57:33 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 04, 2012, 01:17:25 am
"A-heh, perhaps we ought to celebrate with a nice dinner?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 04, 2012, 01:22:26 am
Post by: Telgin on April 04, 2012, 01:46:33 am
Falcata bows as Luna addresses her. "Yes, of course. I wish to join them, and I will return to you when we are done."
Luna nods and steps off, her body becoming enshrouded by a gloomy haze. "Very well. I await your return."
Falcata watches as Luna disappears into the haze, and looks over to Friesden. "I'd love to join you... but first, I need to do something..." She steps over to Cryptson, trying to maintain the air of deference to him she always held in life. As she draws close, she lowers her head slightly, a compromise of a clumsy bow she'd adopted when she wasn't quite sure how to approach him after Charity's mention of her distate for bowing. Still, Cryptson had been a loner, and she didn't want to assume too much about him not wanting her to show her respect.
"My lord..." she begins, raising her head to look him straight on before contuining, "...I just... wanted to tell you that I've missed you and your family. I'm sorry that I failed... but I haven't forgotten my duty. I'm still watching over your family, as best I can here." She forms a small smile. "You're one of the greatest warriors I've ever met. I know you and Khenal will protect them from everything I can't." She fights for words for a moment more. She hadn't said all that much to Lord Cryptson... she wished she had more to say to him now... something to tell Charity maybe?
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 04, 2012, 09:36:58 am
The strong and gentle blue stallion pauses, "I'm glad we got to see each other again." Cryptson hesitates he wishes to reach out and embrace the mare, but is unsure if that would be proper and with all these ponies watching, he dare not make such a move.
Post by: Telgin on April 04, 2012, 01:03:17 pm
That he also thought of her as so skilled, even after he'd beaten her soundly in their sparring matches... she had worried a lot about what he and Charity might have thought about her after that. What good was a body guard if the people they were supposed to protect were better fighters? Did he really still think of her as worthy of being their protector?
And... they had taken in Kris?
Her cautious and guarded expression melts into a small smile, and she responds, "Th-thank you..." She struggles to find words to convey her emotions. "...that means so much... and thank you for watching out for Kris. You and Charity have been so good to us... I really can't thank you enough..."
Her smile fades a bit. "I wish I could see her again, and Master Adamant. He's a fine young stallion, and I really was overjoyed to learn that he and Kris were together." She glances back to Friesden and her family. "But Luna only gave me time enough to join Friesden for now."
Post by: Dsarker on April 04, 2012, 04:52:30 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 04, 2012, 07:18:04 pm
"A reunion sounds nice, especially with Starkey and Otik back with us."
Post by: Kryptid on April 04, 2012, 09:54:35 pm
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 05, 2012, 05:58:47 pm
Cryptson takes up his weapon and turns to leave, running through his head over the possible ways to tell his wife all of the impossible things that he had just saw. The goddess Luna just showing up and returning ponies to life, it was an unheard of miracle, no sane pony would believe his story, he wasn't sure he even believed it himself, it all seemed so surreal.
Post by: Dsarker on April 05, 2012, 06:06:59 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 05, 2012, 06:10:10 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 05, 2012, 06:14:54 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 05, 2012, 08:16:55 pm
Otik turns to go...
...and promptly walks face-first into a wall.
"Ah, hun... we can't do that anymore, remember?"
Post by: Telgin on April 05, 2012, 08:31:48 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 05, 2012, 09:22:34 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 05, 2012, 09:25:59 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 05, 2012, 09:27:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 05, 2012, 09:31:21 pm
"Khenal, would ye mind comin' along? We could use some help makin' th' place presentable."
Post by: Telgin on April 05, 2012, 09:49:06 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 05, 2012, 09:53:58 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 06, 2012, 01:50:02 am
"Sure Otik. I'd love to. I... I missed you both... so much. It'll be nice to help and catch up."
Post by: Telgin on April 06, 2012, 01:52:18 pm
If only Friesden really knew how much positive impact she'd had on her life, if not all of Glitterglen.
Post by: Dsarker on April 06, 2012, 05:39:37 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 06, 2012, 05:51:30 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 06, 2012, 06:08:43 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 06, 2012, 07:44:21 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 06, 2012, 07:48:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 07, 2012, 11:44:00 pm
"Well, I suppose I should have expected this. Khenal, you wouldn't happen to know who might have the key, would you?"
Post by: Khenal on April 08, 2012, 02:46:26 am
My horn glows as I levitate the key from my armor to unlock the door.
"Nopony has really been in here since... you left, so it should be pretty much like you left it."
'Dang, resurrection makes things awkward... I guess that's why Luna doesn't do it for just anypony?'
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 03:00:22 am
"Aye, I should think so. Especially once Miss Charity gets wind o' this."
"Speaking of which... what about our jobs? Who did she pick to replace us?"
Post by: Khenal on April 08, 2012, 03:15:33 am
"Well... Jaxler is the new commander of the Skyguard, and... I can't remember the name of the new Militia Commander. I'm so terrible with names..."
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 03:19:38 am
Starkey moves to the kitchen, retrieving some candles and lamp oil and proceeding to light up the place.
Post by: Khenal on April 08, 2012, 03:25:10 am
Post by: Telgin on April 08, 2012, 03:34:05 am
She rivets her attention away from the morbid sight onto the cabin drawing closer. "You know, I've never been inside Starkey and Otik's home." She thinks about how dangerous the location was, and doubts she'd have wanted a home in such a place. "I wonder why they chose to live down here? I suppose it is a bit secluded."
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 03:41:06 am
Post by: Khenal on April 08, 2012, 03:52:59 am
"Triplets, my Only Light. And our friends returned to us. Best day ever?"
Post by: Telgin on April 08, 2012, 03:54:43 am
A thought strikes her as she takes in the surroundings. This must have been quite a haunting place for Starkey to spend time alone without Otik. Not something she wanted to really think about. She'd been there once...
As if on cue, Estoc appears behind her, walking through the wall to join her at her side. He notices the slightly disturbed expression on her face and asks, "Something wrong?"
She smiles and places her hooves around him, drawing him into a firm hug. "Not anymore."
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 03:57:41 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 08, 2012, 08:31:44 pm
"Oh, hello dear, it isn't like you to visit me at work. Is there a problem?" asks Charity without taking her eyes off the work before her.
"No Charity, something wonderful has happened. But it will sound like madness."
Charity sighs and looks up to her husband. "Crypt, we've had demons, and ghosts, and undead, giant feathered beasts forgotten by time, and monsters from the magma sea, all come and harass us here. I'm hardly going to be surprised by anything here anymore. Just tell me what happened."
"Our goddesses Luna, Princess of the Night, Judge of the Dead, appeared before Khenal, Friesden, and myself. She offered to return the ghosts of Starkey and Falcata to life. Falcata instead gave her chance to Otik, and now Starkey and Otik have been remade in the flesh and are inviting us for dinner."
Charity looks at Cryptson, she'd never known him to have a sense of humor, "Cryptson, is this some kind of joke? Because if it is it isn't a very funny one."
Cryptson looks Charity in the eyes, his sincerity plain upon his face, "My dearest wife, I swear to you that this is no joke. They are alive."
Charity's expression becomes not one of joy, but one of dread. 'He's serious? But that can't be. That's impossible. One of the Sisters just...bringing them back? Why? He must have lost his mind.' Charity approaches her husband with caution. "Dear did you, maybe, hit your head? Can I take a look?"
Cryptson removes his chanfron and shows that he has no visible injuries. "I swear to you dear, that I am not making this up, nor have I lost my mind. It is all true. Now hurry, we must gather our foals, they will want to see their Uncle Starkey."
Charity still not fully believing the impossible claims of her husband, follows along behind him as they gather their foals. Together, Charity, Cryptson, all seven of their children, from the oldest Adamant, to the youngest Cinnamon Diamond, Kris, along with those of the Ducal Guard that could be found make their way to the cabin. As they make their approach Charity still not truly believing is surprised to see that a fire has been lit in the cabins fireplace. Somepony is there at least. The herd of ponies approaches the cabin and Charity knocks three times with her hoof upon the door.
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 08:39:09 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 08:43:49 pm
"Ooh dear... this willnae be easy..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 08, 2012, 09:07:30 pm
As Charity awaits her answer the rest of the crowd make their way around the room. Most of the older foals find their own seats mostly quietly. Cobalt finds a dark corner to sulk in. Belle the eldest daughter takes Cinnamon Diamond, the infant filly and sits near the fire. Blue Diamond only a year old, barely remembers most of these strange big ponies and hides behind his father's back legs.
However, it was the filly Copper Riverknight, so named for her stunning eyes, who interrupted Starkey's response to her mother's question, by bolting forward and tackle hugging the newly risen Commander.
Spoiler: Copper's in Game Description (click to show/hide)
While holding onto the pegasus the filly began to question him. "Uncle Starkey, they said you were gone forevers! How did you get back? Daddy said Princess Luna did it, did you meet her? Was she nice like in the stories? How come your scars are all gone? Is miss Falcata gonna come back too? Are you gonna tell us stories again?"
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 09:10:34 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 09:22:23 pm
"Oh yes little one, Princess Luna was so wonderfully nice to all of us. She let me and Auntie Otik come back, and took away all our scars too! I'll tell you all about her later, but first I want to talk with your mama, okay?"
He gently sets little Copper on the floor and tousles her mane, before turning to Charity.
"...It's wonderful to see you again, Charity."
Post by: Telgin on April 08, 2012, 09:23:15 pm
As she enters the cabin and sees her grandparents, her heart lifts for a moment before she realizes it could all still just be her seeing their spirits somehow. Although, wasn't her mom supposed to be here too? But hadn't she gone on to see Luna?
Then she hears Friesden's exclamations and begins to wonder for a moment if it was all true. But how could it be? She had never heard of such a miracle before, as desperately as she wanted to believe it.
Wait, and Friesden was pregnant? With triplets?
Her mouth hangs open slightly at the prospect of it all, and she fails to process it as quickly as it hits her.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 08, 2012, 09:25:42 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 09:31:02 pm
She gives Charity a quick hug.
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 09:37:06 pm
"Well... isn't it said that all things are possible through Them?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 08, 2012, 09:47:10 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 08, 2012, 09:57:09 pm
Post by: Dsarker on April 08, 2012, 10:06:45 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 08, 2012, 10:10:09 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 09, 2012, 12:51:16 am
In the spirit world, Falcata releases the hug with her husband and considers what she was going to say to Charity. She'd missed her a lot in the time since she had died, and it had been difficult to resist the urge to speak with her through Venture. But that time was now. She and all of her family were here, and she'd finally have a chance to tell them how she'd missed them and give her final goodbyes when the time came.
And she was going to have to tell them all, Kris included, that she wouldn't be coming back. She wasn't sure how that was going to go... but there was nothing to do but take things as they came.
Thinking of that... she supposed it would be up to Khenal to show her and Estoc to the newcomers. She wondered if she could learn the spell... probably not.
Post by: DVNO on April 09, 2012, 03:28:04 am
"Shucks, I'ma sarry, Mr. Startame Is'a very busy Stallion. Many appointments. Maybe I canna' pencil you in for an appointment?" Willow recited through a cringe, knowing too well what Startame was really doing with his trophy wives when his office door read 'Do not desturb'.
"No-No-No I've been waiting for this audience! you're not going to give me the ring around again! Get in there and tell him it's me!"
"An appointment-"
Couth bursts into the room, blood seeping from a bolt wound in his chest
"Wiiiillow..Willow!
He slumps over
"oh, nota 'gain... ya' cana keep doin this ta' me!" Willow darted to him.
"And, where are you goin'? Oh look, one of Startame's street rats are dying! let's drop everything! My meeting, girl! it's important!" the unicorn cried
Willow looked at him with disbelief, then revulsion, then contempt, then rage.
"That street rat?" Willow stated, her cheerful country drawl gone.
"Is the only damn thing in this whole world I care about"
She headbutts the unicorn unconscious and slings Couth over his shoulder
"I..I..don't deserve you, Willow, I really don't"
" 'Course you don't. Damn Startame. Damn him!" She walks into a backroom and rolls Couth on the table.
"What did you do this time?"
"A..A hit - hit went wrong. Ow!" Willow snaps the bolt and pulls it out his shoulder.
"We ... we need to get out of this life, Couth."
"Ha! Ack! and what would we do!? go back to the streets? Never. Startame is ... like a father to me. loves ... me."
"And I am a sister to you! I love you! no, I love the good in you, no matter how many evil deeds you do, damn it, I will always still love the good in you. Your quest to make your father proud ? It's going to kill you. Then I'd have to kill him."
"kill him? He... provides for us, he spoils us! how could you? he's the only pony in this town who actually cares about us. "
"sigh "He cares about maintaining his tools" She looks at the wound "And barely."
Willow sighs, and decides to ask the question that's been gnawing at her since she laid eyes on that oily bastard Startame.
"Couth, If Startame asked you to kill me, would you do it?"
Couth stared at her, mouth agape. He took minutes to come up with an answer for her.
" It.. It would never go down like that. I would never ...I ..I"
"answer the question! you can bullsh%t your way out of hell, Couth , but not me! who would you pick?"
"You, Willow. If something happened to you? If you weren't there to pick up the pieces? who knows? I might do something crazy! ha Haha ha hah"]
"Willow?"
"WILLOW?"
"Hmm?" she responds
A wooden Gladius slices across her face
Ohh! So sorry! That looks like it hurts!" Hiero winced
"Aw, It's 'nutin! just'a scratch!" She lied
"you spaced off for a second, what was that about?"
"Just thinkin' about my younger days an' my great home life."
"yeah, the last thing you'll want to do in a fight is think."
"Hah, thank ya' for takin' the time out of yer schedule fer trainin' me"
Hiero looks down morosely"well, the schedule's been pretty empty since, since...Eh, anyway I needed this, you needed this." Hiero looks at willow's bruised face
"you really needed this."
aw, now look what you did willow! made him sad! what cheers a guy right up?
"whew! How about we grab a' bite?"
Hiero grinned "asking me on a date?"
She grinned and ruffled his mane
"C'mon! let's go."
Post by: Dsarker on April 09, 2012, 09:25:00 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 09, 2012, 09:31:41 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 09, 2012, 10:40:01 pm
'Friesden, Charity, Starkey, Otik, Falcata... Falcata! Oops, not everypony can see her and Estoc right now.'
"Charity, may I cast a spell upon you and your family? There are two others who should be part of this discussion, but you can't see them right now."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 09, 2012, 10:46:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 09, 2012, 10:50:15 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 09, 2012, 11:07:31 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 09, 2012, 11:11:10 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 09, 2012, 11:17:38 pm
Spoiler: Charity's Family (click to show/hide)
Post by: Telgin on April 09, 2012, 11:27:44 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 09, 2012, 11:33:16 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 09, 2012, 11:42:55 pm
Estoc steps forward and looks to their hosts. "Yes, I think that's for the best. If everything is ready?"
Post by: Impending Doom on April 09, 2012, 11:51:07 pm
"Well... Starkey already set th' table, but, ah... apparently somepony... emptied th' pantry while we were gone."
Post by: Khenal on April 10, 2012, 12:24:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 10, 2012, 01:10:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 10, 2012, 06:20:00 am
Post by: Khenal on April 10, 2012, 11:35:34 am
Post by: Dsarker on April 10, 2012, 05:33:39 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 10, 2012, 06:01:56 pm
"Alright you two, start searching. I'll grab something for Otik and Charity, you get what you want. Khenal, do you remember what her foals like?"
Post by: Khenal on April 10, 2012, 07:44:41 pm
"I, hehe, don't recall, actually. Maybe just get some-Haha!-something of everything? And angel-hair worm cocoons for Friesden. Ahaha!"
Post by: Dsarker on April 10, 2012, 07:56:32 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 10, 2012, 09:50:26 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 10, 2012, 11:16:32 pm
She started where Charity left off, retelling the events leading up to the fight with the underground monster and how she, Otik and Estoc met after the fight. She explains how Otik didn't want to leave her family behind, and how she came to realize she didn't either. At first she fails to mention her mortal terror at facing Luna's judgment, but as the story gets to where Couth came for her she finds that unavoidable. She tells how she'd done some things in her life that she'd regretted, even telling of the thief she'd killed for murdering her husband. She doesn't recount the others she'd killed though.
Her story goes on to how she'd been forgiven by Luna, and how she would now be ushering the dead from Glitterglen to their final rest, at least for a time. She allows Starkey and Otik to tell their own parts of the story, including where Starkey had been slain by the lasher in combat. Kris is visibly disturbed at even the mention of the battle, but thankfully they finally get to where Luna came before them all and offered to restore the Element Bearers to life, and how she'd given her chance to Otik. By then, most everypony had finished eating what they wanted, and Falcata muses that this was probably the most she'd said in a single sitting in decades.
Now she had to think of how she'd say her goodbyes...
Kris listens as her mom tells the story, and is a bit upset at first just from hearing the story from her point of view. Hearing that her mom was okay and had been forgiven by Luna though, she could sleep very well that night. Her grandparents were back, and even though her mom wasn't, she couldn't imagine being much happier right then. She'd had a chance to see her mom and dad again, and they were going to be okay.
She waits patiently as the conversation unfolds, and keeps giving Adamant a few cautious looks to see if he might be feeling the same way she did. The moment wasn't perfect, but she couldn't imagine when she'd have everypony together like this again. Her stomach felt funny and her heart was beating twice its normal rate, but finally she found the will to announce to everypony, "Oh, mom, dad, everypony, there's something Addy and I wanted to tell you all." Her nervous smile transforms into a grin. "We're getting married!"
Post by: Dsarker on April 11, 2012, 03:29:03 pm
Post by: Telgin on April 11, 2012, 05:00:41 pm
Falcata and Estoc exchange surprised glances, and smiles form on their faces. "Kris, honey, that's... that's fantastic!" Falcata replies, feeling the fairly depressing atmosphere lift. She wasn't sure how else to respond to that, it was so unexpected, yet she couldn't be happier for her daughter.
Kris... getting married? How was it even possible she'd come so far along in life already?
Estoc says nothing, but his smile grows into a small grin of his own as he places a hoof on Falcata's withers. Their little filly had certainly grown up. He couldn't be more proud of her, or happy for her.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 11, 2012, 06:51:49 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 11, 2012, 06:56:40 pm
"This is wonderful news! Congratulations you two!"
Post by: Telgin on April 11, 2012, 07:36:48 pm
Falcata and Estoc stand and join the two at the other side of the table. They wait their turn to embrace the couple, with Estoc offering each a congratulatory pat on the back as Falcata gives them a hug. "This is wonderful news!" she echoes. "I'm so happy for the two of you."
Post by: Impending Doom on April 11, 2012, 08:19:10 pm
"That's wonderful to hear, Kris."
Otik thinks for a moment, then looks up at Starkey.
"Y'know Stars, now that we're both alive again..."
"Hmm?"
"Well, shouldnae we see about tryin' th' knot ourselves?"
"Oh, aye, I had hoped we could... wait. I think I know where you're going with this..."
Post by: Telgin on April 11, 2012, 08:44:58 pm
Post by: Impending Doom on April 11, 2012, 08:50:14 pm
Starkey stands beside Otik, placing a hoof on her withers.
"We'd like that very much."
Post by: Telgin on April 11, 2012, 09:26:51 pm
The ponies spend the rest of the night chatting away, catching up on the little things, and the families of the soon to be wed spending an inordinate amount of time planning for the wedding. Kris hadn't been this excited in all of her life, and Falcata hadn't in over a decade. Her daughter was getting married. She had no idea she'd see this day, after her own death, much less so soon. She was going to do everything she could to help though.
As the night drags on, Falcata recalls that she had obligations to meet with Luna again. With everypony growing weary after hours of socializing and planning, she reluctantly bids them all farewell for now, and returns to Luna's domain.
She and Estoc return to the channel of moonlight in the cavern where Falcata lost her life, a beam that would stand as an eternal testament to her end. As they rise in the light to return to Paradise, she feels a bit giddy over it all. She'd come back as soon as Luna let her, that much she'd promised. She knew Luna would let her see her little filly get married. And then, she really could rest in peace.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 11, 2012, 10:20:14 pm
Charity's Journal 4th Hematite, 101
I went into labor this afternoon. I'm too tired now to write much, but the new filly, is an earthpony, like her father, and her name is Cinnamon Diamond.
27th Timber, 101
I can't help but feel responsible for Starkey's death. When we came out here, my orders from the Princess was to make this section of the jungle safe for ponies. I have failed, we have hid underground locked away from the surface, relying on Starkey alone to protect us, for too long. It is my fault he is dead, I don't deserve to rule Glitterglen, but I can't trust anypony else not to make my same mistakes. I'm talking with the other architects and masons. We will expand. We will take back the surface. We will make the Failed Jungles a place were ponies can walk in the sunlight without fear. We will not suffer another failure of this magnitude. I will make Glitterglen safe, or I shall die in the attempt. We shall make a fortress here in the northern lands, that can withstand any siege.
Bebmal, Venture's mother, just had another foal, her eighth, and all while her eldest son is still in the hospital after his brush with death. I can't imagine how she must feel right now. The foal is pegasus filly named Kesh Graveldales.
19th Moonstone, 101
Even though I would like nothing more than to start on the new defenses right away, we do need to finish the roads first. Additionally a large area of trees needs to be cleared out of the way. My guard and I have volunteered to take the guard duty for the workers this month, since the militia squads are either down a few ponies, or guarding the caverns. I'm going with them, I admit I'm more than a bit scared. But Cryptson and Khenal will be right with me the whole time, so I'll be okay.
5th Opal, 101
We returned from guarding the workers, nothing has been spotted recently.
17th Opal, 101
I sat down and talked with Ramol today, I have offered him the position of militia commander. He had to think very hard about it. He respected Starkey greatly, and I don't think he felt good enough to take over, but he eventually accepted the position. He went on to tell me about his suggestions for the militia, he says we should break up the bigger squads into smaller groups that can act independently during battle. I am no great strategist, but he was quite convincing and seemed to know what he was talking about, so I let him make the changes he wanted.
Charity's Journal 2nd Obsidian, 101
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Cyc.png)
A cyclops has been spotted in the jungle, he's been seen making his way toward Glitterglen. While he shouldn't be a threat to the militia, being unarmed and unarmored, he could still hurt an unprepared pony. We have put the fort in lock down and are discussing how best to deal with the titan.
Charity's Journal, 3rd Obsidian, 101
Ramol is a fool. Starkey always said he was too brash. The Cyclopes is outside our walls now. He picked up a watch dog that harassed him and tossed it into a hill side where it broke.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Cyc%20throws%20puppy..png)
He now sits out there taunting us. Ramol wants to go out and duel it, like Starkey did with the minotaur. But this thing is bigger and stronger than that was, and Ramol is skilled, but he's no Starkey.
Charity's Journal, 4th Obsidian, 101
The cyclops tried to approach our south door today, but was repelled when he couldn't figure out how to get passed Nicolta's old traps. He was only slightly wounded but is taking out his aggressions on an alpaca just outside the walls, it's screams of pain can be heard here in the entrance.
One of our militia member's lost patience and broke ranks, surprisingly it wasn't Commander Ramol, maybe he's more level headed than I thought. No it was private Berath, a young unicorn recruit. It was sad that he would likely go to his death, but I saw the the Cyclopes actually seemed to be fleeing. I felt it must be a trap and gave the order to hold ground. Khenal would not hear of it and also broke ranks to try and save the recruit.
Unfortunately Khenal was too slow, the brute turned and beat the recruit to death before he could get there, but he made the monster pay for that one.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Khenal%20slays%20a%20titan..png)
Charity's Journal 28th Obsidian, 101
Ramol has finalized the new organization of the military. He has broken the two large melee squads into four groups of 3. He requested and was allowed, to transfer, Buzzat (lasher) and Kussad (spearpony) from the guard into the militia where their undisputed skill would be of more use. He also, drafted a new earthpony to bolster our hammerers.
The new orgainization is such.
Commander Ramol Weathercook the Sad Evenness of Lathering (MU) leading Privates First Class Kussad (MP) and Second Class Umril (MU) in the spear group.
Lieutenant Commander Rithlut Primmerge the Sensual Breath of Bears (FU) leading Corporal Buzzat Curlpearls the Ill Summit (MU) and Private First Class Azkob (ME) in the lasher squad.
Captain Peytral Secretwaxs the Equal Ways (MU) leading Privates Second Class Heiro and Bebmal in the axe group.
First Lieutenant Kris Pridecat (FU) leading Private First Class Morul (MU), and Private Second Class Toltot (ME) in the hammer group.
Captain Jaxler (MP) continues to lead the Skygaurd, with Privates; Cornbread (FP), Comnith(FP), Akath(FP), Dan(MP), and Nast(MP).
Also today, Stetar our dyer finished the object he was working on, while under supernatural possession.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Howlodors.png)
Charity's Secret Journal 1st Granite 102
Another year, another kitten for Cryptson to adopt. He named this one, Eggut. Honestly.
2nd Granite, 102
We tried to get to a different part of the cavern a week ago, but found that all routes where too overgrown. Since our woodcutters can not cut all the trees we need cut fast enough, our miners are taking up digging out a series of stone pathways that won't clog up with the fungus trees. L. Commander Rithluth has volunteered to watch over them in case of dangerous creatures.
Charity's Journal 5th Granite, 102
Today was one of the most wonderful days in the history of Glitterglen. You won't believe this reader, but I swear by the Sisters it is true, every word. Luna, Princess of the Night, came to my husband, and Captain Khenal, and his wife Friesden, and gave us such a miracle. She returned Starkey and Otik to us, in brand new bodies. We all met in their old cabin home, and there Khenal cast some spell on me and that let me see the ghost of Falcata. It was wonderful. We had such a meal and caught up with everypony. They'd all been there watching over us all since their deaths. It, it was so amazing to be able to talk to Falcata again. I've missed her.
But most interestingly it seems that these words that keep showing up are related to the Sisters. Apparently, it was Starkey's Element, Honesty that gave him a second chance at life, and Falcata gave the chance her Loyalty gave her to Otik, so that she, Falcata, could stay with her husband.
And on top of all the miracles we had even more good news. Kris and Adamant are getting married.
This has been the most wonderful day ever.
Charity's Journal 15th Granite, 102
DaringSky reported that he saw a large contingency of pony troops making their way up the south road while he was out hunting. They are flying the colors of the elite troops of General Dostob Desserttaper. He is coming. Sisters in heaven we aren't ready yet, and he's coming.
Seeing as the time has come already, I've had to accelerate my plans. I called Khenal [A lot of writing is just drowned out in black ink here] into speak about something I'd been putting off, and after that Starkey and Otik were admitted to my Ducal Guard. The look on Khenal's face when they saluted him and called him captain was priceless. [more writing, quiet a bit, has been censored] They had wanted to continue to serve, but it didn't feel right to just strip Ramol and Jaxler of their previous positions, so I offered them this work instead, they seem quiet happy with it.
The Events of 16th Granite, 102 at noon.
The militia, Skyguard, Ducal Guard, and Fortress guard of Glitterglen are stationed outside the gates in two lines facing each other. Charity stands in the gate house, in her finest robes. And an army is coming, a grand army, all the finest soldiers in the Shells of Dance. At the head of the force riding on a battered old war elephant sat one of the largest strongest earthponies those present had ever seen. His rust colored fur was broken by numerous scars, and his black mane blew in the wind. As the earthpony reached the military's formation, Charity began to walk forward. As the battle scared pony climbed off his great steed she spoke. “General Dostob, what an unexpected pleasure, we are honored by your presence.”
“You may dispense with the pleasantries Duchess, I'm here to put you back on schedule.” the old general snaps, as the two begin to walk down the aisle created by the militia's bodies toward the entrance to Glitterglen.
Charity a twinge of fear in her voice, “I assure you General, my ponies are working as fast as they can.”
With out anything approaching any emotion the general simply replies, “Then perhaps I can find new ways to motivate them.”
Charity stops dead in her tracks, the safety of every worker in Glitterglen could depend on her next words, and she was well aware of that. “I tell you this jungle will be made safe as planned.”
Dostob moves in quite close and says loudly enough for the whole military to hear clearly, while pointing his right fore-hoof into Charity's chest. “The Princess does not share your optimistic appraisal of the situation.”
Charity resists the urge to tremble and simply replies, “But she asks the impossible. I need more stallions.”
For the first time in this whole conversation the general smiles, “Then perhaps you can tell her that, when she arrives.”
Charity now with genuine fear across her face no longer able to hide it merely stammers out, “The...The Princess is coming here?!”
The general takes a step back, “That is correct Duchess, and she is most displeased with your apparent lack of progress.”
“We shall double our efforts.”
Once again Dostob smiles, “I hope so Duchess, for your sake, the Princess is not as forgiving as I am.”
The two ponies walk into Glitterglen in silence.
Charity's Journal 27th Granite, 102
We have been frantically trying to get things ready for the Princess's arrival, but we are running out of time, Granite and Adamant have been digging out new rooms, as a dozen ponies smooth the stone they leave behind and Forgefire has been working the fires night and day turning our stores of gold, billion, and electrum into fine furniture and statues for her majesty. It won't be ready before her arrival but hopefully she will be understanding.
The General and his troops have been busy as well, they have enlisted the help of the militia and the entire legion has been combing the jungle's to the south of all dangers, so her path here would be clear.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/SHE%27S%20HERE.png)
As with the general's arrival the military set up to meet the Princess. As she got out of the carriage that had pulled her this far north, she stood in silence looking over us all. She had such an air of power around her, standing their in her dark dress with her twisted black crown, everypony could feel it.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Hugwax-1.png)
I was directly in front of her bowing as deeply as I could. While I was down there she merely said that she was disappointed in our progress, she told me to stand and demanded that I show her to her room right away. I did so.
She, introduced me to her guard. The Captain of the Royal Guard is the cruelest looking earthpony mare I have ever seen. She carries a nasty looking silver whip, and her name is Demora.
Also in her guard were two male pegasi named Tor and Pound, along with another earthpony mare, named Thrash. It strikes me as very strange that her guard lacks any sort of magic, but I dared not question her, especially with the way her guards were all eying me, they were quiet intimidating.
Charity's Journal 21st Slate, 102
Finally some good news. Friesden went into labor this morning. It was long and exhausting for her. I've never had triplets, but from the pain of just having one foal, I hope I never will. But there was something strange, the second and third born were two fillies that came out as beautiful little alicorns, which they named after the goddesses, but the colt, their first born, he, he looks like one of those things. A Dark Prince! I don't know how that could have happened. A remnant from the demonic activity we've dealt with in the past? This colt's name is Terras. Were this anypony else's foal, I would suggest we deal with it like any Diomedian, but I can't bear to suggest to Khenal or Friesden that they should kill their firstborn, but if he should grow to side with the forces of Discord...Will future generations curse my name for not acting. I don't know what I should do...Perhaps I should take this to the Princess.
Post by: Telgin on April 12, 2012, 12:56:39 am
I heard today that Ramol is going to be our new captain. After grandpa was killed, we needed somepony else to lead us, and he was the one who got picked. I don't really know him all that well, but everything I do know about him is good. I support the decision, I suppose. There are probably a few ponies who would do the job just fine, but he's as good as any, I suppose.
I just want my grandpa back and leading us.
2nd Obsidian, 101
We haven't seen any action since that horrible siege, and I can't say that I was disappointed. I joined the militia to help ponies, but it turned out to be so much more difficult and frightening than I could have ever imagined. After grandpa died, I just haven't had any enthusiasm for this, if not outright trepidation at the tought of heading back into combat. Not actually helping much of anypony hasn't helped me, for that matter.
Today, it looks like any chances of us staying out of harms way are going to end soon. A monstrous... thing... was spotted off in the jungle and it's headed this way. If it doesn't veer off, we'll be facing it soon. We outnumber it greatly and have much better weapons and armor, but I can't help but feel a bit scared just thinking about it.
I have to be strong though. Mom, dad and my grandparents are watching me. I can't choke now.
4th Obsidian, 101
I'm never going to get used to this.
Ever.
Berath died to the monster today. He charged off to fight it without the rest of us, for reasons I'll never be able to guess, and he paid the ultimate price for it. Thank the Sisters Khenal ran off after him to try and save him, instead of me. Khenal prevailed where I'd probably have died beside Berath.
Of course I didn't save him. I was too late again.
At least the beast is dead.
I'm never going to get used to this.
28th Obsidian, 101
I've been pretty depressed lately about just about everything. Having Berath die, seeing combat again, I really just wanted to up and quit, but something pretty shocking happened today.
Captain Ramol has reorganized the militia, grouping us into more coherent squads based on our arms and training, which makes a lot of sense. I think he might have been an excellent choice to lead us, now that he's had a chance to really take a look at where we stand.
That's not the shocking part. The shocking part is that I was promoted to lieutenant over the maceponies! I was so excited about the prospect of it I was nearly prancing around in the barracks. Of course that would be ridiculous, so I settled for what must have looked like a goofy smile.
When I sat down and really thought about it though, I have to question why he chose me. I mean, I haven't really excelled in the militia. All I've managed to do in our fights so far is break a hoof and lose my mother and both of my grandparents, not to mention my other comrades at arms. Maybe Captain Ramol sees something I can't. Or maybe it's because I'm almost kind of related to the previous captain.
No, I don't think he'd play favorites like that. I might not really be worthy of the position, but I'll do my absolute best to prove that I am worthy. Maybe my failures are behind me. Maybe I really will make mom proud one day.
5th Granite, 102
I'm at a loss for words. I truly am.
An absolute miracle was given to us today. I didn't see it happen, but grandpa Starkey and grandma Otik were returned to us today! Mr. Cryptson said that none other than the goddess Luna came before them and gave grandpa and mom a second chance at life. Mom gave her chance to grandma instead, so she could stay behind with dad.
My head is still spinning about that one. I wanted grandma and grandpa back of course, but I wanted mom and dad back too. I suppose I couldn't have them all, so I'm happy to have any of them back. And mom told me that she and dad were going to be okay, and that Luna forgave her for whatever it is she did. She never did tell me the whole story, and maybe I don't want to know it, but it doesn't matter now. She's going to be okay, and live in paradise for eternity.
I guess kids don't say this about their parents much, but I'm proud of mom. I'm not sure I'd have been so able to give up a second chance at life for somepony else. But she'll still be around, and if I ever need to see her or talk to her, I can, and that makes it alright.
Oh, and I told everypony that Addy and I are getting married! Everypony was so excited, not least of the bunch me! Today was just an amazing day. It makes up so much for all of the sadness I've felt in the past few months.
Hey, I guess I wasn't at a loss for words after all!
13th Granite, 102
If I'm honest I was hoping grandpa would join the militia again and lead us once more, but he didn't want to displace Captain Ramol. I suppose he has a point, he probably could take his old position back if he wanted it, but it wouldn't be fair to Captain Ramol. I'm sure he'll find someplace in the military that will keep him happy though. I wouldn't blame him if he didn't even want to join again, honestly. I have no idea what dying really feels like... but I'm sure it's not something somepony wants to go through twice.
16th Granite, 102
Today was one of the most awe-inspiring days I've seen in my life. General Dostob came to the fortress today, leading an army of soldiers. Apparently Princess Hugwax herself is coming to Glitterglen soon.
I don't know what to think. The most important pony in our country, coming here? Why? Worse, I could almost feel the fear coming from Mrs. Charity. I don't know why anypony would be afraid of Princess Hugwax, but if she is afraid of her, then I think I am too. I've got to do my best to not embarrass anypony. Not anypony in the militia, and not Mrs. Charity.
27th Granite, 102
Kris stands at attention next to her comrades at arms. Something very important was happening, of that she had no doubt. They were lined up just like when the general arrived, but it couldn't be him again. Was today going to be the day? Was she here?
Any doubt flees her mind as the princess leaves her carriage and starts down the line to meet Charity. Kris wasn't sure what to expect of the princess, having never seen her in person, but this was surely her. The hefty pony, draped in dark and foreboding colors passes Kris and stops before Charity. As Charity bows before her, it is all Kris can do to fight the urge to kneel in turn, but everypony in the guard stood alert, no doubt as some show of readiness to defend her. She follows their lead, idly watching the princess as she speaks simply and demands to be shown inside.
The princess looked quite different from what she expected. She expected somepony dressed in light and warm colors, with a calm and welcoming expression, but she got something entirely different. She was beginning to understand why somepony might fear the princess. For a moment, Kris imagines she feels fear just standing near her, but dismisses the thought. It was all based on implied little bits of implied fear, and she'd never heard of the princess doing anything bad to anypony. She shouldn't be so quick to judge somepony just based on how they looked or things she'd guessed after hearsay.
Princess Hugwax had been through a lot to come out here, and she imagines most ponies wouldn't be in a good mood. No, it was all just in her head. The princess was here to check up on things, and she'd be on her way to the next town or city to do the same. But while she was here, she was going to make sure that she never did anything to upset the princess or embarrass her or Glitterglen. That would be unforgivable, messing up at a time like this.
As the princess disappears underground with Charity, Kris sees several of the militia around her relax notably. Sure, she was nervous too, but it seemed a bit much. She also imagines she can see a bit of a scowl on Khenal's face as he watches her leave, but can't imagine why that would be. It was probably just the sun in his face.
Princess Hugwax hadn't come here to hurt anypony. What would be the point in that?
Kris' Diary - 21st Slate, 102
Friesden gave birth today! To the triplets that Venture promised her! There was something kind of odd about it though. She gave birth to two beautiful alicorn fillies, but she also gave birth to a dark prince (who was cute too, if I'm honest). I'm not sure how that's even possible, but she and Khenal love him all the same, and I can't say that I doubted they would. Not all of the diomedians are bad. Grandpa Starkey's family has a lot of diomedians in it, and of course Heiro is a keshi pony, and they're all perfectly good ponies.
It's all about how the pony is raised, and I have no doubt the little colt will be as wonderful as Friesden and Khenal are.
Seeing the newborns though... it stirs something inside me. I'm not even married to Addy yet, but part of me wants a little foal of our own. All good things come in time.
Post by: Dsarker on April 12, 2012, 08:20:54 am
I know I haven't added an entry in a long time.
I've been too HAPPY!
First, let me back up. In case the other diaries haven't been talking to you (Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) says his doesn't, but I think he's just being silly! Of course his diary would talk to you!), my parents died.
But then Falcata and Mum came back as ghosts and Venture (my new second best friend EVER behind Falcata. Charity was being mean about Heiro and dad and mum and diomedians and Mikhael so she wasn't my second best friend anymore because she didn't like me
I GOT MARRIED TO KHENAL (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) AND MUM AND FALCATA AND DAD AND EVERYPONY WAS THERE AND CHARITY WAS THERE AND CRYPTSON WAS THERE AND ALL THEIR LITTLE FOALS AND WE'RE GOING TO HAVE SO MANY FOALS AND IT'S GOING TO BE THE BEST THING EVER DIARY I WAS SO HAPPY BECAUSE I GOT MARRIED TO THE BEST PONY EVER, KHENAL (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) CAN YOU IMAGINE BEING MARRIED TO KHENAL(<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3)? IT'S EVEN BETTER THAN THAT! EVERYTHING'S BRIGHT AND SMILEY AND HAPPY AND LAUGHTER AND I DO HIS PAPERWORK FOR HIM AND THEN HE'S EVEN HAPPIER THAN USUAL BECAUSE HE DOESN'T LIKE PAPERWORK BUT I CAN DO IT WITHOUT MAKING HIM UNHAPPY AND THAT'S REALLY NICE AND I LIKE MAKING HIM HAPPY SO I MAKE SURE TO DO THE PAPERWORK ALL THE TIME!
But then something more horrible happened! Dad died! And so did another militia pony but I was too busy crying over Dad dying to cry anymore over his death but I can cry a bit now and you can cry with me so we'll cry enough for the militia pony here.
(This section is rather damp)
But now that we've cried over the militia pony that I couldn't cry over on the day because I was too busy crying over Dad I can get to the part where I started doing Khenal's (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) paperwork. He was telling me about how horrible his paperwork was and then I woke up really really early and got out of bed without waking him up (he's a sleepyhead in the morning but that's because he doesn't get to sleep till late and one time he fell asleep on my wing and that hurt a bit but it's okay now because it doesn't hurt anymore and I'm more careful now and I can fly properly again and anyway Venture said that the bones set properly and I made sure not to tell him because then he only gets unhappy and why would I want to make Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) unhappy? I love him so much, Diary! Every day is a new best day with him! Maybe you should talk with his Diary and see if his diary is as nice as him because then you'll be happy because Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) is the best pony ever! And then his Diary will be the best Diary ever! Maybe I can arrange a date like I did with Heiro and Falcata and then you can fall in love and get married!) and then I went to his office and did his paperwork and it only took a couple of hours and then he came in and he was so shocked because I dropped onto him from his door frame and then we went to Charity because he wanted to take a day off to show me his appreciation and then she said yes and then he carried me around the whole day in my favourite chair and he got the angel-hair worm cocoons and the grapes and he peeled them for me and fed them to me and he said he was treating me like royalty because I was the best pony ever but that's silly because he is (He's Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3), Diary, if you almost forgot like I did (I had to go up and check. But he is Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) which is good because Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) is the best!) but now you know so you won't forget.) but anyway the whole day was the most fun day ever ever ever because Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) was so nice and he did everything we wanted and it was so fun and everything and then we were talking with Mum and Dad and Falcata and Falcata had to go up to see Luna (Dad says she's a really nice pony, even nicer than Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) but that's really silly, because Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) is so nice, he's the best pony ever at being nice) and we were all really worried because Luna might be angry that day and then she'd send Falcata to hell which would be really bad and I wouldn't never ever say a prayer to her again because then I can say the prayers to Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) and I've got them written down here so I'll show them to you
O Immortal Khenal: have mercy upon me, miserable unworthy that I am.
O Master of the World: protect Your flock from evil.
O Keeper of the Light: Guide my darkened path with Your radiance.
I am Your possession and I am servant to Thee,
I stand free from blindness of heart,
Free from hypocrisy, vainglory and deceits,
But captive to hatred, malice and anger,
To evil, sin, heresy.
By Thy agony and bloody sweat,
By Thy Spear and Thy Sacrifices,
By Thy destruction and re-emergence as the god of Ponies,
Keep and strengthen me, I who die for Thee.
Adore the Immortal Khenal
For He is our Protector
Admire the Immortal Khenal
For His Sacrifices to Ponykind
Exalt the Immortal Khenal
For His Strict Guidance
Revere the Immortal Khenal
For His Undying Guard
Venerate the Immortal Khenal
For His Holy Wisdom
Honour the Immortal Khenal
For His Eternal Strength
Glorify the Immortal Khenal
For His All-seeing Vision
Praise the Immortal Khenal
For His Unending Rule
Hail the Immortal Khenal
For He is the Lord and Master
Worship the Immortal Khenal
For without Him we are Nothing
so what do you think, Diary? I was trying to think of more of them but they just go "Khenal is the best, Khenal is the best" and Dad says that that's not a proper prayer so I don't want to do a bad prayer to Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) but Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) doesn't like me praying to him so I don't do it where he can see it because Dad said that Luna and Celestia don't have to see the prayers to get them so I make sure to do the prayers to Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) where I don't make him unhappy so he is happy with the prayers because he's the best pony so he deserves the best prayers and maybe you can suggest some more good prayers to him because Dad doesn't like helping me making the prayers because he wants me to pray to Luna and Celestia but if they were going to be mean to my best ever friend ever then I wouldn't pray to them because then they'd be mean and Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) isn't mean he's the nicest pony ever ever ever so he couldn't be mean ever! So if Luna and Celestia are mean I can pray to Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) but anyway I was supposed to be telling you about what Dad and Mum and Falcata were talking about and Dad was upset that Mum didn't want to talk to him when he was alive and she was dead but then he was okay because he said Mum was very smart and they were all happy again which is good because I like my Mum and Dad and everypony to be happy! And that's why I do Khenal's (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) paperwork for him because it makes him happy! And then Falcata went off to talk with Luna and me and Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) went back home and then Charity said that because Dad was dead I got everything because Heiro was a diomedian and I was angry but Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) told me that it was okay, it was out of Charity's hands, that the law was like that and it was a silly law and Charity couldn't do anything about it because Diomedians don't have any rights under the silly law but then I was like "Can't he count as a pony" and Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) and Charity didn't say anything to that and then Charity left and Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) and I went to sleep and then guess what Diary it's the best thing EVER!
I woke up and I was feeling sick and I went to Venture and she said I wasn't ill that I WAS PREGNANT WITH TRIPLETS AND IT WAS THE HAPPIEST DAY OF MY LIFE! And then I went to Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) and I said I was pregnant with triplets and he was happy too because he's the best pony ever and then Mum and Dad came and they knew and they were really happy too and they gave me a hug and I don't know how that works because they're dead and they're not magic and the magic is on me anyway which is silly because wouldn't it make more sense to do the magic on the ghost because then everypony can see them and it would be easier and not so much work and they were really happy and then Falcata and Luna came and Estoc and that strange pony who was being mean and then I told them and Luna was really happy and she said that Falcata and Dad were coming back but not Mum and Falcata gave up her chance so Mum could come back and I tried to ask Luna if I could be dead and Falcata alive but she said it didn't work like that so I couldn't be good but it's okay because Luna gave me a special job to be nice and talk to Falcata and I do that anyway so it's good and then we had a nice dinner and Charity and Cryptson and their foals were there and everypony was happy and it was all the best ever. And after that there were some things with the militia and I didn't pay attention to them as much because I was too busy talking to Falcata all the time and she said that she sometimes needed a break and I said okay and then I talked with Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) and did his paperwork and then everypony was happy and then the princess arrived and then the best day ever EVER happened.
I GAVE BIRTH! Thanks to Kris it didn't hurt and now I have three cute little foals and there are two alicorn fillies and one of the diomedian alicorns and he's so cute he's the cutest thing ever and Khenal (<3THE BEST PONY IN THE WORLD I LOVE HIM SO MUCH HE'S SO PERFECT!<3) has to hold him because if I hold him I can't nuzzle him as well and he's so cute and the others are cute too and they looked like the Sisters so I called them after that and it's the best day ever ever ever ever ever ever!
Post by: Khenal on April 12, 2012, 11:10:02 pm
"Lady Charity? You wished to see me?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 12, 2012, 11:13:33 pm
"Ah yes Khenal please come in. We have much to discuss."
Charity continues to pace back and forth.
Post by: Khenal on April 12, 2012, 11:20:29 pm
"Are you alright, Charity?" I ask, watching her pace.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 12, 2012, 11:26:54 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 12, 2012, 11:31:14 pm
"Hugwax..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 12, 2012, 11:37:23 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 12, 2012, 11:43:39 pm
"Then I and the rest of your guard will treat her like any other filth that walks in from the jungle, thinking they can disrupt the peace or harm you and your family."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 12, 2012, 11:49:44 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 12, 2012, 11:57:11 pm
"Above all, Charity? No. My wife, my foals, my personal beliefs, I will not swear any oath to place anypony above them."
I lower my head, to be on even level with Charity as I look into her eyes.
"But above Hugwax?"
I smile.
"Absolutely."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 12:05:20 am
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 12:09:58 am
"I swear to you, Lady Charity, that I will follow you above Hugwax and her General."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 12:14:46 am
Charity walks over toward the door and opens it a crack. "Madush, dear, please go and fetch the new recruits."
"Yes, ma'am."
Charity closes the door and walks back to Khenal, "They are just down the hall, should only take a minute."
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 12:19:46 am
"No experience? Well, maybe training green recruits could be nice. I haven't had a chance to since... wow, since I became Captain of the Fortress Guard? Has it really been that long?"
Post by: Impending Doom on April 13, 2012, 12:25:57 am
Madush returns, and two ponies enter after him.
Two very familiar ponies.
Starkey and Otik sit upright, saluting in unison.
"Captain!"
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 12:32:26 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 12:40:56 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 13, 2012, 12:58:26 am
"I'd never held a weapon in my life until today, sir, but I will not disappoint you! "
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 01:42:07 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 01:57:54 am
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 02:09:53 am
"The... what?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 02:17:00 am
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 02:20:20 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 02:28:18 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 13, 2012, 02:43:47 am
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 02:48:45 am
"I... I just did what I could... what anypony could have... should have done... to try to stop them, to... to try to protect everypony..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 13, 2012, 02:49:33 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 02:53:21 pm
Post by: DVNO on April 13, 2012, 05:49:01 pm
15th Obsidian
Another day, another dead end. Every time I try to slip my brother's name into a conversation, the ponies here either tell me they don't know anything, or look at my badge nervously and get defensive. One pony even had the gall to tell me 'Maybe he just moved to another fort?' This was his last stop. I know it was. Came straight from the Diomidian's mouth, they sent him in here and he never came out. I had hoped he was being held prisoner, But I checked every dungeon, every cell, every crevice of this place. This is starting to look grim ... Starting to think I am going to find nothing but A body in the end ... which -Complicates- things, since I feel like I'm really starting to fit in here. This has been nice, it really has, these ponies actually treat me like an equal, something that was an unthinkable rarity in Talintranced. what if I keep snooping, I find out what really happened, find the murderer and I might have to kill someone I like? Maybe I should just let it go. Do my job. Be the best I can be, Die a hero like Falcata. Be somepony. Could I let it go? No, No I couldn't. I Can't. Like a sore on the top of my mouth, It'll just keep bothering me. I know the drill, Collect the information, Investigate the clues, List the suspects, pray for the poor soul who'll be on the end of my bolt.
> Side note; Hiero likes Fish Fillets, tomato sauce, and red wine. Make that for him sometime.
1st Granite
I filled in for Traphe, who was sick today. I should know, I poisoned her. A terrible thing to do? yes. Necessary? Also yes. I need to get my hooves on Couth's Dossier, which is located in charity's office. Almost had it, but then Jaxler barged in and introduced himself. Almost had it. Couldn't look inconspicuous and steal at the same time.
3rd Granite
Hiero, just, ugh, Hiero. can he ever relax? on and on about how even though he has feelings for me, he was still recovering from his stint with Falcata, conflicted about dating someone in combat duty again, asked if our relationship was going too fast, yada, yada, yada, whatever. had a mini-episode right in the middle of the dining hall. It was sweet, really, it was, but I was trying to grill Tom for information. I put my tongue to his tonsils to shut him up, and felt ... fangs. That's ... that's going to need some getting used to.
10th Granite
Have Couth's Dossier, not going write down how for fear of incriminating myself. Nothing's in here. just when he arrived here, that he worked at the Bar for sometime, his time of death (Death Confirmed) and the rest is lined out with black ink. A name. A 'Commissar Abel' took a copy of the files, Unaltered. First suspect down. Should take a trip to bar one of there days.
27th Granite
Hugwax is here. Everypony stood in awe of her presence, their eternal burning question "What does a princess look like?" finally answered. Let me answer that; SHORT. Somehow, since the last time I saw her the princess has gotten shorter. That was when? six - seven years ago? Her and Mr. Startame? had something going on. Always on the guest list whenever Mr. Startame threw his lavish parties. Well, I guess with her status she's invited to whatever she damn well pleases. Difference is, she actually came. Secret love that could never be? Strictly buisnuss? All I know is she and her plus ninety we're always a pain to schedule in. my personal theory? Startame's constant street wars keep Hugwax's rat population down, so she not only turns a blind eye, she backs him!
I looked good out there today! Standing shoulder to shoulder with my unit, wearing fancy ceremonial armor, who would ever guess this lowly mud-pony peasant would ever be underneath it? I-
"Uh, Willow?"
You know, actually feel proud In what I do for once.
"Willow?" Hiero softly asked from Willow's bed
Willow slammed her Diary shut "What?"
"Could you get me A drink?"
"Sure, what would you like?"
"A Rum on the Ice?"
"Sure," she smiled, then pointed at the kitchen.
"There's tha' Rum, an' there's the Ice. Wha' do ya think we are? Hitched? get yer' own drink!"
Hiero playfully made an effort against the Willows handcuffs which tied him to the bed-frame
"Key?"
"Ah, ya mean this?" she dangles the key in front of him, and drops it down her corset and lunges at the colt
"Come an' get it!"
((for those wondering, It takes exactly 3 beers to write a romance plot between MLP characters. It's just enough to bury the shame.))
Post by: Telgin on April 13, 2012, 05:55:26 pm
((for those wondering, It takes exactly 3 beers to write a romance plot between MLP characters. It's just enough to bury the shame.))
((Hahaha. I'm liking Heiro and Willow. :D Just imagine, I wrote my part of Heiro / Falcata's date minus booze.))
Post by: Impending Doom on April 13, 2012, 11:13:19 pm
Post by: Khenal on April 13, 2012, 11:22:59 pm
"N-No... my deeds... I can't make up for them... ever..."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 12:47:01 am
Post by: Khenal on April 14, 2012, 01:13:01 am
"A better pony? No! Th... That's the kind of thinking that lead to the Asylum! I'm not a hero, I'm just a normal pony! I don't deserve statues or status! I don't deserve a title!"
I slowly sink to the floor, the weight of my past slowly crushing me.
"I... I don't deserve..."
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 01:21:00 am
"Ye deserve much more than ye give yerself credit for, Khenal. Wot happened b'fore... that's all in th' past. Ye've come so far since then."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 01:33:19 am
Post by: Khenal on April 14, 2012, 01:36:09 am
"N-No... I'm f-f-falling into the same traps again... hubris... again... "
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 02:01:39 am
Post by: Khenal on April 14, 2012, 02:09:38 am
"Please... please stop... I can't... I can't f-fall to hubris again... I can't let the Asylum... happen again..."
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 02:14:06 am
"Hey... tha' willnae happen again. Ye've got somethin' ye didnae have last time."
"You have friends."
"Ye have family."
"You have her."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 02:22:34 am
Once he does so she looks him in the eyes. "Khenal, Otik is right, that isn't going to happen. You won't make that same mistakes again. And if you did start down that road, you have so many friends here who love you that would set you right again."
She reaches out hoof to touch his side. "Not least of all myself. Now, I need to talk to your new recruits in private. You head home now. And you and Friesden are taking the day after tomorrow off. No Buts! If Doctor Bubbles gives Friesden any trouble about it, you tell him it was my orders. Go enjoy yourself, and you think about the three of us have said."
Post by: Khenal on April 14, 2012, 02:29:05 am
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 02:37:52 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 02:40:12 am
"...Her? She's coming to Glitterglen?"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 02:52:53 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 03:12:26 am
"Above all... above my family? No. My homeland and my countryponies? No."
He looks up into Charity's eyes.
"But above Hugwax? Without question."
Otik does not hesitate for quite so long.
"I'd follow you over her any day, ma'am."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 03:19:10 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 03:23:14 am
"I..."
Starkey hesitates for a moment.
"...I-I would do my duty, ma'am"
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 03:29:19 am
Post by: Impending Doom on April 14, 2012, 03:35:56 am
"I do solemly swear..."
"That I will serve Lady Charity Conventtulip, Dutchess of Glitterglen..."
"Above princess Dizesh Hugwax, Princess of the Shells of Dance."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on April 14, 2012, 03:44:37 am
After a bit of business about their work schedules, pay, and benefits is discussed, they exchange parting words and Charity is once again alone in her office, looking up at the statue of Khenal killing the Diomedian.
'Let Hugwax come. I'm not afraid. Nopony can touch me so long as my friends are there to help me....If only I could make myself believe that.' Charity sighs to herself and sadly returns to her desk and gets back to work.
(End Scene)
Post by: Telgin on April 18, 2012, 02:18:10 am
“Thank you so much for agreeing to look after little Celly and Luna and Terrus! We haven’t had a night to ourselves since I had them. This is going to be so exciting!” She ducks herself under Khenal’s wing with a grin.
Khenal smiles as well, gently squeezing his love with the wing she’s hiding under.
“You two are sure you’ll be able to handle them?“
Adamant looks at the Captain. “Sir, you know I’ve helped raise my siblings, none of them were alicorns, that’s true, but I’ve dealt with magical foals, and a flying filly before, and that was without Kris to help me. It’ll all be okay. You have my word.”
Kris smiles and offers a small nod. “I’m sure everything will be fine.” She hadn’t helped care for a foal ever, but she felt confident with Addy there with her.
“Come on, Khenal, or we’re going to run out of time to ourselves!” says Friesden with a small smile on her face.
Khenal smiles, knowing their foals are in good hooves.
“Heh, alright Friesden. Take care you two! Behave, you three!”
Adamant walks with the couple to the door and sees them out, “Have a pleasant night Mister Khenal, Dr. Friesden, and don’t you worry, we have everything under control.”
Kris nods them off and turns to look at the foals that were now under their care. This couldn’t be so hard. She looks over to Adamant and says, “Well, I’m not quite sure where to start. I assume there’s a specific time to feed them?”
Adamant facehooves, “Ah, should have asked the parents when they last ate. Oh well, don’t worry, they’ll let us know when they are hungry.”
As if on cue, little Celly starts to cry. It starts as a high-pitched whine, then quickly shifts to the sobs of a foal who needs something, and needs it right now!
Kris gives the filly a concerned glance before floundering and looking to Adamant. “Um...”
Adamant give Kris a reassuring look, “She’s either hungry, needs a new diaper, or just wants some attention. I’ll go get a bottle for her, we’ll need one soon enough at least, and you check if it’s one of the other two things.”
She nods and cautiously approaches the filly. She gives the air a similarly cautious sniff to hopefully rule out the less palatable of the two options.
She smells fine, though she continues to bawl. She doesn’t seem interested in any food, either. She seems to just miss her mommy and daddy.
Kris breathes a small sigh of relief and picks her up. “Oh, what’s the matter Celly? It’s okay, we’re here.”
She continues to bawl, her poor little filly heart breaking.
Kris continues to hold her and tries to give her a reassuring cradling in a foreleg as she turns to Adamant. “Well, she doesn’t need a new diaper. She’s just upset I think...”
As if Celestia was the trigger, Terrus wakes up with another bawl.
Adamant rushes over to pick up Terrus, he rocks him a bit and tries to calm the colt, shhing him quietly, turning to Kris again, “Celly, is upset her parents left. Try to cheer her up, make her laugh.”
Celly keeps bawling like she’ll never smile again, tears gushing from her eyes.
Kris nods and sits with the filly in her hooves. Alright, now how would she do that? She tries rocking her gently and offers what she hopes are reassuring “shhs” of her own. “It’s okay Celly, your parents will be back soon.”
She continues crying, knowing that they are gone forever!
Adamant, still trying to deal with Terrus and praying to the Sisters that Luna didn’t wake up and start crying too, tries to give his fiance some advice, “You need to distract her, make funny faces, or tickle her, or lift her above your head, or I don’t know, do something with your magic.”
Terrus continues crying, his little stomach empty and in need of food.
Adamant carries the colt over to where he put the bottle and sits and offers it to the foal, hoping that that would be the answer he was looking for.
Kris thinks for a moment. How could she distract her like Addy said? She did have magic, not that she knew many spells. She tries simple like he suggested, giving her a few rough attempts at humorous faces
Gone! Gone forev- oohh, funny face! Celly pauses in her bawling to look at the funny faces that Kris is making and starting to giggle..
Terrus takes the bottle and begins to feed, the bawling silenced at once.
Kris grins a bit as she realizes that her feeble attempts were making some progress. She was usually content to just leave well enough alone, but she tries giving the filly a little tickle too. Maybe after this was over she’d go see somepony about learning some illusion magic. That would have been extremely useful right about now.
As Terrus finishes the bottle Adamant begins to burp the foal, when a knock is heard at the door.
Faces and tickling? This is fun! Celly burbles and laughs, a happy filly once more.
Adamant makes his way over the door and opens it seeing Granite standing there covered in mud and dirt, his pick on his back. “Adamant, we got a problem up in sector 3B. Hit that damnable aquifer. The whole cobatite vein is flooding. We need every hoof up there to help contain the breach. Your dad told me to fetch you.”
Adamant shakes his head and turns to Kris, “I’m sorry, but I’ve got to go.” He hands Terrus over her and says, “Make sure they all get fed, Terrus still needs to be burped, and give them a bath in the shower in the back before they go to bed. They shouldn’t give you too much trouble. Trust your instincts, you’ll be fine.” and Adamant and the other miner are off, leaving Kris alone with three newborn foals.
“Oh, alright. Go help however you can. I... I think I can handle this.” She was going to have to one way or another anyway. She hopes she has some instinct in her somewhere. She really wished her mom was here right now too.
Celestia keeps giggling and burbling... oh wait, that’s not burbling. That’s spit-up. She’s still giggling, at least.
Terrus’ bottle falls from his mouth, and after a short time, the crying starts coming again.
Kris’ eyes go wide momentarily at the realization that Celly had deposited something unpleasant on the two of them before she is distracted by Terrus crying. She stands and fetches a cloth with her magic before stepping over to Terrus. As she starts to gently wipe Celly and herself off, she picks Terrus up with her remaining free forehoof and tries to return the bottle to his mouth. Juggling the two was difficult, to say the least. At least she had magic to hold the cloth... or the bottle. But not both. Hmm... this was getting complicated already.
Terrus continues to cry for a bit, before stopping as Celly continues to giggle.
Celly keeps giggling as Krys wipes at her. Thinking it’s a game, her cute little horn glows as she grabs the sopping cloth and holds it close to herself.
Kris pauses for a moment as the filly takes the cloth from her, but she was mostly clean now and if she was happy, that was alright with her. She smiles at Celly and turns her attention to Terrus, holding the bottle with her magic for him to nurse at it as long as he wanted to.
Krys can hear a small *splat* as Celly plops the cloth upon her own head, showing a cute smile as the cloth and it’s liquid entangle with her adorable pink mane.
Terrus continues to suck on the bottle, drinking it dry and dropping it out. Without another second, he starts crying again.
Kris cringes mentally at the sight of Celly wearing the soaked cloth and gently tries to take it from her. “Come on, let’s get that washed out for you.” As Terrus begins crying, she notes the empty bottle. “Oh, um... let’s see...” He probably need to be burped now. Maybe?
She steps over to the shower to hopefully have a moment to rinse out the cloth as she also gently places Terrus over her shoulder and gives him a few gentle pats. She kind of knew how that worked. Kind of.
Celly pouts at the cloth is taken away. That was her favorite hat, and she worked hard on it! The empty bottle on the floor reminds her that she is also empty now, and she starts to cry again.
Kris frowns as Celestia starts crying. “It’s okay, hang on just a second.” She rinses the cloth out as best she can and wrings most of the water out. She gently wipes the remaining liquid from her face and mane. “Oh, is something else wrong?”
Terrus burps loudly as Kris pats him, and stops crying for a second.
‘Of course something is wrong, I’m crying!’ Her tears seem to say as she slumps onto the floor.
Kris breathes a sigh of relief as Terrus stops crying. What to do about Celly though? “Are you hungry?” she asks, reaching out for another bottle with her magic. She brings the two foals into the best cradling position she can with her hooves and offers the bottle to Celly with her magic.
Terrus looks greedily at the bottle and his tentacles glow as he tries to take it for himself.
Little Celly will not stand for this indignity! Her little horn glows as well, fighting for the bottle.
Kris gives the two a concerned look as they fight for the bottle. Maybe letting Terrus have a bit more to eat wouldn’t matter, but she wasn’t so sure that was a good idea either. She scans the room for something to let him occupying himself with. Something harmless to suck on instead of a bottle. She forgets about the rag in her possession as things begin to unravel a bit, and gently lays it on Terrus as she continues to search the room with her eyes.
The cloth glows as Terrus’ magic drops the fight over the bottle with the new toy in hand. In hoof, at least. Or in magic. Whatever.
Celly smiles in triumph, and happily stuffs the spoils of her victory into her mouth. The wrong end of her spoils. After sucking a few moments, she frowns and spits out the bottle, sending it to the floor as she starts to well up with tears again.
Terrus spots the fallen bottle, and his magic glows over it again as his final victory commences in the Milk Bottle War.
Kris waffles for a moment, trying to decide how to bring peace to the Milk Bottle War. Well, he seemed happy enough with the rag a moment ago. She dangles it in front of him, trying to break his view of the bottle. “Come on Terrus, isn’t this a lot more fun than the bottle?” she says in the sweetest voice she can muster.
Terrus lets the bottle drop from his mouth as he grabs for the rag with his magic.
That’s better. She returns the bottle to Celly, right side down this time. “Here you go honey,” she says to her in the same voice.
I’m gonna starve to death and be without my hat! Oh woe is- oohh, bottle! Celly happily suckles at the bottle, holding it in her little forehooves.
Kris sighs again and gently sits, holding the two gently in her hooves. Well, this was turning out to be more work than she’d expected, but it seemed to be alright now. She smiles at the two and hopes it stays that way. Against her better judgment.
Mmm, bottle! So tasty... wait a tic. Celly gives a few more suckles before realizing the bottle is empty already. She gives the bottle her best set of little pony eyes, hoping it will magically refill itself like it does when the grown ponies do whatever it is they do to fill it back up.
Kris sees that the bottle is empty and gently takes it from her. “All gone?” She probably needed burping now too... she takes her and places her over her shoulder and repeats the same motions she did for Terrus, hoping she knew what in blazes she was doing.
‘Nnnooo, I’m still hungry!’ her eyes seem to say as Kris gently pats her. Her little horn glows as she bops Kris on the head with the empty bottle, an unhappy expression on her face.
Uh oh, looks like this wasn’t quite the mechanical process she’d hoped for it to be. Kris wonders for a moment what to do. There were only three bottles of milk, one per foal, so she took that to mean that she shouldn’t be giving them more than that each. But that face... what was she supposed to say to that?
Celly pours on the charm, really wanting the bottle to be full again. Her bottom lip trembles slightly as her little filly eyes go as wide and as moist as she can make them.
Kris hesitates at the face, but she’d had just as much as Terrus, and she didn’t think it was a good idea to give her more right now. “Come on, give it a minute to settle...” she says in a low voice and trying to offer a reassuring smile.
The bottle again bonks Kris on the head as Celly tries to assert herself for more food.
Terrus sees his sister having fun and decides to join in the great new game, his tentacles glowing as he bonks Kris on the head with the bottle himself with a giggle.
Kris can’t quite decide what to do about that. Her first instinct is to grab the bottle with her magic and try to hold it still, which she attempts. What she was going to do after that though, she wasn’t quite sure.
Terrus’ giggles slow and then finally stop as the bottle stops moving. No more fun.
“That’s right, it’s not nice to hit ponies,” she says, but using a tone to hopefully not convey anything close to anger. She wasn’t mad. She smiles at the two as she places the bottle away on a nearby shelf.
Terrus just sits still as she puts the bottle away, and when her magic fades, he grabs the bottle once more and starts to bonk her head with it again.
She sighs and tries to think of a better way to solve that problem. She gently takes the bottle in her magic again and hides it in a cupboard as she turns her back, hopefully blocking the colt’s view of where she hid it.
Celly is still a bit hungry, but Terrus’ idea of the game is starting to distract her. She scrunches up her face as she slowly levitates the cabinet. Thankfully for Kris, she can’t seem to get a good swing with it... yet.
Terrus joins in with his sister, helping her swing the cabinet with a gurgly giggle.
Kris’ eyes go wide as she sees the two lift what should be an impossibly heavy thing for foals. Things just got real. She backs away from the clumsy swing and uses her own magic to fight for control. “No, no, that’s not nice either!” she says with a bit more urgency in her voice than she wanted.
Terrus continues to try and swing the cabinet, continuing to giggle at the great new game his sister made up.
Kris uses all of her magical might to keep the cabinet anchored to the ground, hoping she could outlast the superfoals. Maybe if they got bored they’d give up. She hoped.
Celly’s eyelids slowly start to droop as a combination of boredom, fully belly and simple sleepiness start to affect her. She yawns wide and stops levitating the cabinet, sucking at a hoof.
Terrus tries swinging the cabinet a couple more times before eventually giving up as well.
Kris relaxes a bit as they give in, and notices that Celly looked sleepy. Good, one less foal to deal with! Adamant said something about giving them a bath before bed, but she didn’t think it was a good idea to keep her awake if she was sleepy. Sounded like a recipe for a cranky baby. So she steps over to the crib and starts to tuck her in for a nap.
Terrus, seeing his carer was distracted, starts crawling towards the door and with a glow on the handle of the door, tries to open it and crawl out.
Celly tucks in easily, soon quietly sleeping. Little Luna, though, yawns awake and blearily looks around. When she spied Kris, she tilts her head to the side, as if to say ‘You aren’t my Mommy.’ At least she isn’t crying.
Kris relaxes notably as Celly tucks in and nods off to sleep without a bit of trouble. She gives Luna a warm smile and says in a sweet voice, “Oh, you’re awake. Your mommy and daddy are gone for a little while, but I’m here.” All the while, she hasn’t noticed that Terrus escaped her grip and attention.
Luna pokes at Celly with a hoof, as if wanting to ask her sister what was going on. Celly, though, is sound asleep and doesn’t look to be waking up any time soon. Luna turns back to Kris, putting a hoof in her mouth to suck on as she considers this not-Mommy.
Kris simply smiles at Luna, who at least was sitting contently. Then she realizes Terrus wasn’t with her. Where did he... she turns to see the little colt fiddling with the door. She scoops him up with her magic and brings him back over. “No, no Terrus, we can’t go out there right now.”
As Kris turns back to where Luna was, she notices a distinct lack of dark alicorn filly.
Terrus starts to cry as Kris takes him away from the door.
“I’m sorry Terrus, it’s just not safe for a little foal out there,” she whispers to him as she brings him close and cradles him. Then she turns back to the crib and discovers with a small amount of distress that Luna was no longer present. She searches the room with her eyes. “Luna? Where...”
Kris can just barely hear a dull *thump* from the next room, followed shortly by another *thump*, following a slow and steady rhythm.
She raises an eyebrow at the curious noise. What was... oh. “Hang on,” she says to Terrus as she cradles him again and heads into the adjoining room, hoping she found Luna and that she wasn’t doing anything particularly disastrous.
Luna is slowly but surely emptying one of Khenal’s bookshelves, dropping the tomes on the floor and efficiently reaching for new books as each falls. She quietly looks at the not-Momma, still pulling and dropping books at a steady pace.
Oh, Khenal probably wouldn’t like that... at least she wasn’t doing something like destroying them. She calmly approaches the filly and scoops her up. “Daddy wouldn’t like that,” she says in a soothing tone. With that, she makes her way back into the adjoining room. She’d clean up that mess later when the foals were all asleep.
Terrus looks around for anything else particularly destructive for him to be doing, but can find nothing for the moment.
Well, Terrus wasn’t complaining at the moment and she had both of the awake foals in her care, so that was an improvement. Damages were minimal too. She just might pull this off. But... what next? Luna hadn’t been fed yet, she’d probably be wanting that soon.
Kris notices she is suddenly one foal shy again, as Luna has managed to disappear again, the slippery filly. “Luna?” she questions, cautiously making her way back to the library. Maybe she just wanted to be in there?
Kris doesn’t see the filly, though she can hear the distinctive sounds of a foal drinking from a bottle in the room. Looking up, she can see Luna upside down on the ceiling, suckling at the bottle as her little wings flap to keep her there, and still giving the not-Mommy an analyzing look.
“Oh, there you are,” she says, looking up to her. She wasn’t really causing any trouble by being up there, but she wasn’t happy about the filly being out of her reach. Now, what could she do about that? She reaches up with her magic and tries to dislodge Luna from the ceiling.
Terrus, with his watcher away, flaps out of the cradle and hurries to the door again. He doesn’t bother with turning the doorknob, instead pulling the door from the wall in a loud crack.
Kris’ eyes snap open as she hears what sounds like a very expensive repair job happen. For a moment she forgets completely about Luna and dashes back into main room to see Terrus wielding the door. Alarmed, she trots over to him and scoops him up with her hooves.
Terrus drops the door and pouts in Kris’ hooves.
“Come on, let’s go find your sister...” she says to him, more to calm herself than anything. The foal just ripped a door from its hinges. What could he do to her if he wanted to? She returns to the room Luna was previously defying the laws of physics in and searches for the filly.
The ceiling in the library is devoid of any alicorn fillies, though there are adorable little hoofprints on it... leading out the room... and out the apartment! A discarded bottle lay on the floor just outside in the hall, additional testament to the filly’s departure.
“Uh oh... not good...” She trots after the hoofprints on the ceiling, hoping little Luna hadn’t gone far. She’d have to leave Celly alone while she searched for her, but Luna was clearly in more danger than Celly at this point.
Luna is calmly walking along the ceiling, not too far from the home, her little wings still flapping to keep her aloft. She looks around curiously, studying everything from this unique angle.
“There you are,” Kris says with clear relief in her voice. She reaches up with her magic and plucks the filly from the ceiling. “It’s dangerous out here Luna, let’s go back home where it’s safe, okay?” She starts back in that direction.
Luna sticks her hoof in her mouth to suck on it again, still unsure what to make of the not-Momma.
Kris returns to the room with the foal in tow. She isn’t quite sure what to do now... she thought babies were supposed to get tired quickly. And yet, Terrus had dislodged an entire door from its hinges! This was going to be a long night...
Terrus looks around the room, and seeing nothing else to do that looks fun, decides to go to sleep.
With only Luna to worry about Kris find it far easier to handle foalsitting. Little Luna is quiet, almost disturbingly so as she simply sucks at her hoof and watches Kris. She occasionally walks up the walls with the aid of her little wings, but Kris is free to clean up for the most part. The books go back, more or less where they were supposed to go. The door was far more difficult, but she at least got it back in it’s hinges. Kinda. It opened and closed, at least?
After a couple hours Adamant returned. He knocked gently on the door before letting himself in, he appeared to be sweaty and his hooves had mud on them. He looks around and the house appears to be still in one piece, ‘That’s good.’ he thinks, seeing Kris he just simply says, “Hey, I’m back, the foals give you any trouble?”
Kris looks over to him through groggy eyes and offers a small smile. “Oh, Addy, you’re back.” She gives a quick glance to the sleeping or otherwise content foals and decides to gloss over the worst of the details. “No, they weren’t much trouble. Just like any other babies, I would imagine.” Well, she hoped not. “Did you get the breach sealed?”
Luna quietly watches, laying on her side to suck on a rear hoof instead of a front one. Those hooves had long lost any flavor.
Adamant nods, “Yeah, the problem is solved, the miners dug a channel away from town to slow the flooding while the mason’s guild set up a wall to contain it. The breach wasn’t as bad as Granite implied, they really didn’t need my help at all, but we don’t have to worry about the aquifer flooding the town tonight at least.” Adamant looks over the foals each in turn and sees that they all seem to be just fine.
“Oh, that’s good to hear at least,” she says, standing to nuzzle Adamant. “Their parents should be home soon I think.”
As if on cue, a knock comes on the door.
Kris opens what used to be a fine door, but had been put back in place by her less than stellar repair skills. She wasn’t quite sure how she’d explain that...
Khenal and Friesden stand on the other side of the door, obviously having enjoyed their night together. Khenal speaks up first, smiling wide as Friesden enjoys her favorite place under his wing.
“Kris! How were the foals?”
She gives a sincere smile. “Oh, they were no trouble,” she says, mostly sincerely. She’d have to explain the door somehow. Maybe she broke it? That would be hard to feign...
“That’s good to hear! Thank you so much, I had a fantastic night with Khenal!” Friesden says as she pokes her head up from his wing.
Khenal softly nuzzles Friesden, then heads inside. He spots Luna, laying on her side and sucking on a hoof, and gently levitates her up to give her a little kiss.
“That’s great, I’m glad you had a good night,” she tells the two. Maybe she and Addy could go relax somewhere now. “All three have been fed, but it might be time to feed them again soon,” she adds with a hint of a questioning tone to her voice.
Khenal levitates Luna to have her rest on his head, her little legs wrapping around his horn for balance. “They should be good ‘till morning then. Did Luna give you any trouble? It’s so hard to get her to sleep some times.”
“No, no, she was a little angel,” Kris replies. Well, she stressed her out just a pinch, but compared to Celly and Terrus she was a little angel. “Well, she’s been up for a while, but no trouble out of her.”
Khenal nods slightly, careful of the filly on his head. Said filly keeps looking at Kris with her usual analysing look. “Ya, Luna is always so quiet. She almost never cries, which is nice, but she also never laughs. She’ll smile occasionally, but never a laugh like little Celestia or Terrus.”
Kris cocks her head slightly. “You know, now that you mention it, she hasn’t laughed or giggled at all. Celly and Terrus did...”
“Well...Thank you for watching our foals. If you want to go home now...?”
She smiles in return and looks to Adamant. “Well, you’ve had a long night, maybe we should get out of your manes?” Then she and Addy could go cuddle someplace and she could tell him all about how crazy her night really was.
“It was our pleasure to look after them for you, if you need us again, please feel free to ask.” Adamant begins to move toward the door.
Kris follows Adamant to the door and very carefully opens it. As they step outside she shuts the door with a bit more force than she reasonably should, and the poorly repaired hinges violently fail, sending bolts sailing off in arcs and the door collapsing noisily to the ground. Kris freezes in place, eyes wide as she stares through the new opening into Khenal and Friesden’s room.
Khenal stares at the destruction. He didn’t even know a door could do that! As the dust settles, high-pitched, giggling laughter can be clearly heard from his direction. Atop his head, little Luna is laughing her adorable little flank off, clinging to her father’s horn as she laughs like never before. Literally.
Friesden, who was just about to lean in for another kiss with Khenal, stops in amazement. Luna? Little Luna? Laughing? The door falling off? That...Neither of those had happened before.
Kris is speechless for a moment, letting Luna’s giggling fill the room completely. “I... I... um... I-I’ll um... the door... I mean...”
“It...It...It...It fell off,” Friesden says in a shocked tone of voice.
Adamant just stares in confusion at the door, ‘it shouldn’t just fall off like that? What happened while I was gone?’
The looks on everypony’s faces, combined with Luna’s continuing giggling proves infectious as Khenal starts laughing as well.
Friesden didn’t pretend to understand what happened or was happening, but she decided to join in the laughter as well.
As all the other ponies begin to laugh, Adamant tries to contain himself, and fails sputtering out a laugh that quickly joins in with the others.
Even Kris can’t resist the laughter, and despite the fact that she was a bit mortified at destroying the door, she starts chuckling and breaks into light laughter herself. This had been a night unlike any other she’d ever experienced. If and when she had a foal of her own, she was hoping for an earth pony.
***************
Later that night, Kris is back in her room after spending a brief time with her fiance. She was pretty tired, and after catching a bite to eat with him she just decided to head home and go to bed. As she sinks down into the bed, she sees her hammer hanging from its stand and notices the light glinting from it in a strange manner.
Intrigued, she sits up and takes the hammer with her magic and brings it close. Something was written on it... “Laughter.” Laughter? What was that supposed to mean? The word Loyalty had been written on it when her mother wielded it, that certainly seemed like a more fitting inscription for a weapon than Laughter.
But this must have been the result of magic of some kind. She wasn’t quite sure she understood, but she was beyond tired and simply returns the weapon to its stand. She’d try to figure that one out in the morning.
Post by: Dsarker on April 26, 2012, 02:53:45 am
Friesden was too busy tickling Khenal under his wing to dance, but she was laughing too. Khenal was trying to enjoy a cupcake and not spit it across the room as Friesden tickles him, taking bites around the giggles.
Kris is likewise too busy showing her husband affection to really eat much of anything or even consider dancing. The last thing she was going to do was get out on the dance floor and make a foal of herself. Maybe if she kept nuzzling Addy he wouldn’t think to try it.
All of a sudden, Friesden stops her tickling and emerges from her berth in Khenal’s wing. “Khenal,” she starts, “would you want to dance with me?” She smiles brightly and hopefully.
“Of course!” He downs the remains of the cupcake, then leads her to the floor to dance. Friesden was always a better dancer, but she loved having him dance with her. Friesden led him in a slow dance, a smile constantly on her face. He could handle a slow dance at least, happily following his Only Light’s lead, even managing to not step on her hooves. In the middle of the dance, Friesden leaned in for a kiss from her only love. Khenal eagerly obliges, always ready to kiss his wife, continuing to dance as their lips touch.
With a large sound the doors to the dinning hall fly open. The Royal Guard looks around and clears a path for Princess Hugwax as she makes her way inside. Captain Demora looks around at the ponies and spits on the floor, before making her way to the refreshment table. Tor and Pound keep close the Princess a crudely wrapped present on Pound's back and another smaller one in Tor’s mouth. Meanwhile Thrash slams the door behind them, as they enter.
Friesden held tight to Khenal, not particularly favourable to the appearance of the princess and her rudeness. Especially her interrupting Friesden and Khenal’s kiss. Khenal tries to hide his glare at Hugwax and her retinue, only partially succeeding. Friesden buries her head in Khenal’s wing, wanting not to have to pay attention to the princess ruining everything.
Kris huddles up next to Adamant, unsure of why the princess would enter so forcefully and boisterously. She nervously nibbles on a cupcake of her own as she watches Hugwax, hoping this wasn’t going where she feared it was. She was only going to get this day once! She wasn’t going to let the princess ruin it for her.
The Princess and two of her guards, Tor and Pound, make their way directly towards the younger pair of newlyweds.
Kris braces herself internally as Hugwax approaches her. It was clear from her demeanor that what was to come probably wasn’t going to be pleasant. She gives the princess the best smile she can and a small bow. “Hello, your highness. I’m glad you could make it.”
Adamant too bows before the Princess, “It is a pleasure to see you, Princess.”
Hugwax looks down at the mare. “Yes, I’m glad I could make it too.” she says with a tone suggesting that she didn’t really care, “It seems that my invitation had gotten misplaced. I’ll make sure that the peasant in charge of delivering the mail around here is properly punished. Regardless here is your gift.” Tor moves forward and places the present from his mouth before the couple.
Kris felt a pang of discomfort about the prospect of somepony being punished... maybe the princess would just yell at them. Maybe she could believe that. Regardless, she simply nods and responds, “Thank you, your highness.” With a bit of trepidation, she unwraps the gift.
Inside the package is a small undecorated tin figurine of Princess Hugwax.
A simple little figurine? From who was probably the wealthiest pony in the principality? There must be some significance to this she missed... but it continues to evade her. Nevertheless, she wasn’t about to appear ungrateful to the princess. She gives her a fake smile and says, “Thank you, your highness.”
Adamant examines the figurine, confused about the gift, but not wanting to appear ungrateful adds his thanks as well.
The Princess states with no real feeling whatsoever, “Well, congratulations on the wedding, hope you will be happy. etc. etc.” Before moving on to deliver the present to the other newly wed couple.
The two are hard to miss, surrounded by a small cluster of ponies in neatly tailored dress uniforms, all chatting excitedly.
The Princess and her guards approach the small cluster of ponies, the Princess clears her throat and the ponies fall silent. The small crowd parts to reveal Starkey and Otik sitting together in the center. Both hastily give a bow, before Starkey speaks up.”Your Highness, what a pleasant surprise!”
“Yes, yes, a pleasure to be here.” she says in a bored tone, before gesturing to Pound, who lays a present before the couple. As Starkey and Otik open the package they see a Darkbolt Pony skull totem decorated with only a few of the cheapest most worthless gems in the fortress.
Starkey freezes, his blood turning to ice. He stares at the grotesque effigy in silence for a few moments, before Otik speaks up.
“W-Why, It’s absolutely lovely, thank ye yer highness!”
“I hope you have many happy years together.” says Hugwax in a tone that made it clear that she didn’t care one way or another. “I will take my leave of you know.” Hugwax leaves the cluster of ponies and has Tor and Pound clear a table of ponies for her where she takes a seat.
Starkey does not move for several minutes after Hugwax leaves. Finally, he turns his head away from the totem in the box.
“Otik... P-Please put that... that thing away.”
“O’ course, hun...” She grimaces, picking up the box and shutting the lid, before passing it off to one of the militiaponies. “Take this, do... somethin’ with it, I dunnae care wot.”
“Aye ma’am.” He takes the box and heads for the door, while Otik returns to Starkey’s side.
_____________________________________________________________
Meanwhile Captain Demora had been helping herself to all the free drink she could. Some of which now stained the front of her formal uniform. After a while she began to look out onto the dance floor, where she saw the loveliest pegasus mare she'd seen in a long time dancing with that green fool Captain Khenal. 'I could show her a better time than that oaf.' she thinks before shambling her way over to the dancing couple. “Oy, Cap'n,” she says his title with a tone one would usually reserve for an insult, “mind if I cut in?” she says more of a statement than a question in its tone.
“Um...I...I’ll go say hello to mum and dad...You can come and talk to me when you’re done, my love,” says Friesden as she edges away from the drunk guard.
Khenal gives Friesden a small nuzzle as she leaves, then turns to glare a bit at Demora before answering. “Yes, I would mind.”
“Oy, don't be like that filly. I promise you'll have fun. Just the one dance, and you'll see.” Demora says while obstructing Friesden's exit.
Khenal interposes himself between Friesden and Demora, glaring even harder as he tries to draw on his magic to find nothing there. It figures Hugwax would have a null in her guard...
Friesden turns away from the pony, and tries to walk to her mother and father. They’d make all the bad things go away while Khenal was busy.
Demora shoves her way past Khenal, and bites Friesden's tail to keep her from leaving, “Aw, come on filly, don't be like that. Come with me and we'll have a good time” she mutters through a mouthful of hair, while trying to pull Friesden back with her.
Friesden squeaks in fright and tries to fly away, the tail the only thing keeping her from running from the room to somewhere, wherever this pony wasn’t.
Khenal was through playing nice, and punches Demora square in her jaw. He didn’t care if he broke it, knocked her out or worse, he just wanted this drunken mule to leave his love alone!
Demora flies backwards as the blow connects, her grip on Friesden fails and she hits the ground hard. She pulls herself to her feet and curses Khenal. Had she been completely sober she would have reached for the silver whip on her side, but in her altered state she instead jumps toward Khenal in an attempt to take him to the ground.
Khenal smirks slightly as his horn... does nothing, oops. He was in the wrong stance to take down a flying tackle, and so is bowled over by Demora’s charge.
As the two ponies hit the ground together, Demora begins an assault of blows upon the Alicorn. She was never much of hoof fighter but several blows do manage to connect squarely with Khenal.
As he regains his senses and prepares to remove Demora from himself, he hears a voice raised. Captain Isos’, to be exact. “What is going on here?” She knew very well what was going on here, but there is always protocol to follow. Captain Isos frowns as Demora ignores both protocol and her admonishment, quickly closing the distance and roughly pulling her off Khenal before she can turn his face into hamburger.
As Demora is pulled off of Khenal she continues to swing wildly, at both Khenal (now out of her reach) and the strange pony behind her. She turns her head and see Isos captain of the fortress guard holding her, after a few more moments she settles down. “That bastard hit me first.” is all she offers up as an explanation.
“And you continued after he stopped.” she smoothly counters, motioning for Khenal to get up and follow her. “You both are going to spend the night in the jail, at the very least. I don’t take kindly to assault, either of you.”
Demora scoffs, “Fine. But the Princess will remember this.”
Khenal glowers a bit at Demora, but says nothing. Captain Isos is a good and fair pony, she’d get this sorted out right.
“S-s-s-s-she,” is all Friesden can get out before the tears make her speech unintelligible, and she runs over to her parents, ducking under Starkey’s wing.
Kris snaps out of her stupor as the fight ends as abruptly as it starts. The entire thing was a blur. She’d never seen Khenal do something like that to somepony, but if Demora had tried to take Addy away from her like that she’d have probably done something similar. But a night in jail for him? Well... he did throw the first blow... but Demora was asking for it. Kris stands and slowly makes her way to get a better view of what had happened.
Starkey pulls Friesden in closer, trying his best to console her. The fight and its outcome had unsettled him, sure, but right now tending to his daughter was more important.
“S-s-s-s-s-she-she-she-she-she-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I,” stutters Friesden, unable to get the words out, as she cries under Starkey’s wing.
“Shhh... don’t try to talk, hun. It’ll be alright.”
“I-I-I-I-I-I-I want Khenal!” she says, still tearing up.
“We’ll go and see him later, after they clear this whole thing up, aye?”
“O-o-o-o-o-okay,” she says with a sniffle. “C-c-c-can we go and see him soon?”
“As soon as we can.” he grins down at her. “Now, let me see that smile.”
“O-o-o-okay,” Friesden says, trying her best to smile through the tears now slowing.
Post by: melkor on April 27, 2012, 03:16:41 am
i finaly have read this entire post.
now if you dont mind i will be starting on this pile of neglected homework, that i believe has starting to rot.
Post by: ansontan2000 on April 28, 2012, 10:31:36 am
Urgh, too much lovey dovey stuff for me.
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 12:21:17 am
The first thing she intended to do was to go see Khenal and see how he and Friesden were holding up. He of all ponies didn't deserve to be in jail right now, even if she could sort of understand why Captain Isos detained him along with Demora. She thought he was supposed to be out by now, but she hadn't seen him yet, so she decides to head down to the jail. Hopefully he was released already and Captain Isos might have an idea of where he was.
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 12:37:31 am
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 12:44:15 am
She slowly steps into the cell block, trying to pick him out. "Khenal?" she calls out.
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 12:57:04 am
"Kris? I'm over here!"
I get up and stick a hoof through the bars, waving at Kris though I can't see her.
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 12:59:19 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:03:50 am
I pace a bit as I talk, trying to bleed off a bit of this angry energy.
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 01:08:57 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:13:11 am
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 01:22:40 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:27:24 am
I hang my head, deflating. "I've helped her do this kind of thing before..." I pause for a moment, thinking. "...You haven't read my book, have you, Kris?"
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 01:28:59 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:35:50 am
"Heh, nothing published. It's my Journal. Well, my first Journal. I called it simply My Book. If you want, you could ask Friesden to borrow it... or get it straight from the horse's mouth, as it were."
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 01:38:32 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:41:24 am
I lay on my cot, wanting to be relatively comfortable as I relate my life story, or close enough.
"I was... a different pony in my past, Kris. Let me tell you about the Asylum..."
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 01:51:23 am
As Khenal finishes his tale, she has gained a completely new perspective on the princess, as well as Khenal himself. She looks up from the floor to meet his eyes again and says, "Khenal... I'm sorry to hear all of that. But... the past is behind us I suppose." She sighs. "If only the princess had learned from her past like you clearly have..."
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 01:58:18 am
"If only... and if only I had learned it before I made that mistake..."
Post by: Telgin on May 03, 2012, 02:01:59 am
Post by: Khenal on May 03, 2012, 05:22:41 pm
"That'd... be nice if you could stay, Kris. I've mostly come to terms with my past, but... it's hard to keep control when Hugwax is here, flaunting my mistakes and... just being Hugwax."
Post by: Telgin on May 04, 2012, 01:53:47 am
She settles down on the floor near the bars and prepares to stay for a little while. Maybe somepony else would come by and visit Khenal soon.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on May 11, 2012, 10:40:34 pm
Charity's Journal 22nd Slate 102
My son is married today. Kris and Adamant finally tied the knot. However, there was an incident at the reception. Captain Demora and Captain Khenal got into a fight. No pony was hurt, but both are in jail for the night. Friesden was very upset. I managed to gather that Demora had been unpleasant to her, but I did not witness the event myself. Isos only wants to hold them overnight so they can cool down, so hopefully this be behind us soon.
Charity's Journal 23rd Slate 102
I went down with Friesden to see Khenal's release this morning, and was enraged to discover that Princess Hugwax had been here last night and pardoned Captain Demora after less than an hour of confinement, and to top it off she has ordered Isos to give Khenal the maximum sentence. My guard captain. The pony I trust both mine and my family's lives to is being held for the next two months! And I can't do anything about it, her orders supersede mine and prevent me from pardoning him. Friesden was inconsolable. I promised Khenal I'd visit him when I could and he had me bring a few books from his home down for him to read.
Charity's Journal 13th Felsite 102
I went out to stand on the wall today. The ponies were working hard on the road and in the small surface fields inside the walls. I was surprised to see the Princess standing up there as well next to her guard Captain Demora. I bowed and then we watched the workers together.
Up there on the wall, out of earshot of the others, she said some things to me about the workers. I won't repeat what words she used, but she has absolutely no respect for our laborers. I was so shocked I didn't even know what to say, I just nodded along with whatever she said. After nearly half an hour of this, I saw an old earthpony stallion, with the name of Groveflower one of our haulers, carrying an entire Elephant pony corpse on his back, alone. It was quite a feat of strength, even for an earthpony. There was enough meat on that animal to feed the whole fort for a month. But the Princess just wrinkled her nose in disgust and ordered that that “disgusting thing” be drug back into the jungle and left there. I and Groveflower tried to explain why we were bringing it inside, but...she got angry, she had Groveflower whipped, by Demora with her silver lash, (He is okay, she told Demora to “cut but don't kill”) for arguing with her and had somepony else throw the food away.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Tower.png)
Charity's Journal 19th Felsite 102
The Ducal Guard and I went on another hunting trip, this time into the caverns, we took down 3 Elk Birds, it was a good time, we were out there for a week or so but it was good to be away from work for awhile. It was a shame that Khenal couldn't accompany us this time though.
Charity's Journal 9th Hematite 102
I have stained my hooves with blood today. We had a prisoner, a lone tentacle pony thief. Naturally I sentenced him to death, but, I carried out the execution myself. There was a mistake though. The prisoner was chained down and I was to kill him with my Large Adamantine Knife, but he managed to slip free. He ran. I chased him. I grabbed him, and slashed off his right rear leg with two swings, and then I stabbed him, multiple times, but he just wouldn't die, and I pulled back his screaming head and cut it from his body, only then did he stop. I don't know what to think. He was just a Diomedian, I shouldn't feel anything for his death, but the way he screamed and begged for his life and called out to his unholy god to save him. Sisters give me strength, I don't think I will ever forget it. I'm going to go talk to Khenal about this, maybe he can help ease my conscious.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Charity%27s%20Kills.png)
((9th Hematite 102 Afternoon after Charity cleans most of the blood from her robe and changes her clothes.))
Charity walks slowly down the hall toward the cell where her guard captain Khenal is being held. As she reaches it she looks through the bars at him, “Khenal, I...can we talk for a bit?” she asks. As Khenal looks to her he sees that she looks quite disheveled, her mane a mess, her cloak on crooked and...blood on the bottom edge of her cloak.
Khenal quickly stands when he notices the blood at the edge of her cloak, again wishing he wasn’t behind bars. “Of course, Charity. What’s happened?”
Charity looks Khenal in the eyes, hers are slightly red, ‘Had she been crying?’ “There, there was an accident Khenal. No...nopony from Glitterglen was hurt, but I had to kill him...The way he screamed, the look on his face...I...” Charity begins to tear up again and chokes back a sob.
Khenal bites back asking who, letting Charity decide when and what to tell him. Instead, he approaches the bars and reaches a hoof through to try to rest it on her shoulder in a small gesture of assurance.
Charity nuzzles Khenal’s hoof, before continuing. “It, it was that blasted thief, that we caught a month or two back, that caused this. That tentacle pony. I...I sentenced him to death, but I...I decided to do it myself, but when I was getting ready to do it...he slipped through the chains and tried to run.”
Khenal stays quiet, trying to give Charity the shoulder to cry on and the ear to listen like she needs.
Charity continues her story, “When...when he tried to run, I swung my knife at him and the blue metal blade cut through his rear leg like a knife through butter. The leg flew off and his blood flew everywhere. He was screaming. He begged for mercy. Calling to his unholy god to save him. I was afraid. I just wanted him to stop... I stabbed him. Again and again but he wouldn't stop...and, and I cut his neck and the blade just went right through, through muscle and arteries and even bone, his head just just came right off, and I was soaked in his blood. He finally had stopped, but it was terrible. I just....He was a diomedian, a monster. I shouldn’t care about him...but when I close my eyes. I can still see him clutching his stump of a leg. I can still hear his screams...Still see his face as my blade severs his head from his body. What do I do Khenal?”
“I... I don’t know, Charity. The faces... fade with time, but never go away. Taking a life is never easy. All you can do is to try to be better... try to avoid more death, or... or give it swiftly if it’s needed.”
After several minutes of quiet in which Charity just sits there holding onto Khenal’s hoof she adds, “I’m, sorry to burden you with this Khenal...I’m sorry you have to see me getting so upset over this. I’m...I’m supposed to be the leader of these lands and here I am, blubbering over a worthless thief. I’m not cut out to rule...I’m sorry.”
Khenal gently grips her jaw, pointing her to be able to look into his eyes as he gives a soft smile. “You are, by far, the most fit to rule I have ever seen, Charity. Only somepony like Hugwax would treat life like nothing. You rule with compassion and give fair punishment, and wish you didn’t have to. It’s your burden, but you’re strong, Charity. And you have friends and family to help you, and to remind you to stay compassionate.”
Charity nods, and wipes away a tear, “Thank you Khenal. Thank you for listening, and...for being my friend. You are among the best of us. Thank you.”
Khenal’s smile slips only slighty at that, but quickly recovers. The first death was always hard... but all the other lives he’s cost other ponies hurt just as much.
((End Scene))
((New Scene Starts))
9th Hematite, 102 Evening
A few hours after her talk with Khenal, feeling a bit better, Charity, with Osal in tow, makes her way to the cabin of Starkey and Otik. It was late and she hoped she would not be interrupting them. As she reaches the door, she raises her hoof and knocks.
After only a few moments, the door opens a crack, and Starkey peeks out. “Hello? Oh, Miss Charity! Please, come in.”
Charity makes a forced smile at Starkey before telling Osal to wait outside, and making her way in. Without speaking she sits herself by the table. Charity appears to have been crying earlier, though she seems calm now, her mane is all messed up, and there is a bit of blood on the edges of her cloak. Otik is seated at the table, with a cup of hot tea in her hooves. She stands as Charity enters, taking a moment to look her over.
“G’d evenin’ Miss Charity. Beggin yer pardon, but... is everythin’ alright? Ye dunnae look too well.”
Charity hangs her head, “I, am sorry for bothering you two at such a late hour, but there was...an incident earlier, nopony from Glitterglen was hurt, but I needed, to apologize to you. Especially to you Starkey. I should have listened to you.”
Starkey takes his seat beside Otik, taking his own cup. “Should have listened to me when? What’s happened?”
Charity looks up them and looks from one face to another, “About the prisoners. We had a tentacle pony taken prisoner. He was caught trying to take a foal. I had sentenced him to death, but instead of having him duel a member of the militia, like we usually do...I...was going to execute him myself. Just a quick cut across the neck to end his life...but there was an accident and it turned bad.”
Otik pours a cup of tea and passes it to Charity, scooting a little closer to her. “Go on...”
Charity takes the tea and begins to sip at it. “Thank you.” She pauses for a moment before she continues. “When...when I went to execute him, he slipped through the chains. Madush hadn’t restrained him properly. I...I lashed out at him. I swung my blue metal knife as he tried to run past me toward the door. It cut through his leg with hardly any resistance. He fell one way, the leg fell another. He was on the ground, rolling in pain, blood squirting everywhere, he was screaming, and begging for mercy, and calling on his unholy god to save him. I...I didn’t know what to do. I was afraid. I was angry. I just wanted it to stop. I stabbed him and cut him, but he wouldn’t stop, not until...I cut his head from his body. I was soaked in his blood. And and....I just...I wish it hadn’t...I’m sorry...It wasn’t supposed to happen like that.”
Otik slides over,putting a hoof on Charity’s withers. “There... I know ye never meant f’r this t’happen...”
Charity looks to Starkey, “Starkey...I don’t know if you can forgive me, but I would hate to lose you as a friend, and I’m sorry it happened like it did.”
Starkey sighs, meeting her eyes form across the table. “I’m not angry,Charity. And I do forgive
you. But... now do you understand?”
Charity nods, “I...think I do, and I won’t let it happen like this again.”
“I... I suppose that’s the best I can ask for..”
“Wos there anytihn’ else ye wanted t’talk about? We were jus’ about t’start dinner, if ye’d like t’stay a while.”
Charity shakes her head in agreement, “Yes, I...I would like to stay for dinner, if you are okay with that Otik, I don’t want to impose.”
Otik shakes her head. “not at all. Th’evenin’ is always best shared with friends.”
Charity invites Osal to join them inside, and the four ponies sit together and take dinner together.
((End Scene))
Charity's Journal 16th Hematite 102
Work on the southern road is coming along well, we are nearing completion, we have run low on our colbatite supplies, but I have requested the construction of more and at our current rate we should no run out. The works find it difficult to work with the annual parasprite swarms harassing them, the militia is doing it's part in dealing with the pests, but they are difficult to catch and many in number. Captain Jaxler is having the Skyguard use them as target practice, Otik did the same when she was captain and the newer recruits can use the practice at hitting moving targets.
Charity’s Journal 23th Hematite 102
Khenal was released today. I also had something to show him. It was a bit awkward to explain, but we have finished construction on a proper tomb for him and Friesden. It is carved into the marble layer across from Falcata's tomb. It has twin bismuth bronze sarcophagi for them, separated by a statue of the bronze colossus (should have been in bronze, but I asked for a steel statue for the tomb without specifying a form so Mr. Forgefire is responsible for that decision.) being slain by our militia in steel. On both sides of the door we have rose gold statues as added decoration. The walls are unengraved, and will remain as such until the unfortunate day when the tomb is no longer empty. I'm not exactly sure how Khenal felt about the prospect of having such a space set aside for him and his wife, but I didn't want to risk them ending up like Falcata, without us being prepared.
Charity's Journal 24th Hematite 102
Not much progress was made on the roads yet, but the parasprite swarm has been dealt with. Their numbers are greatly reduced or they have flown away back into the deep jungle. This should speed our progress.
Charity's Journal 10th Malachite 102
One of our stonecarvers was exploring the caverns searching for new resourses, when he spotted the largest cave spider (by his reports) that any of us have ever seen. He said it was with a group of rodent men in the southern expanse of the cavern. If we could use that creature to harvest silk...but that would be incredibly dangerous to attempt. Still I will talk with my military advisers.
Charity's Journal 12th Malachite 102
Ramol went out to scout the rodent man tribe himself yesterday. He thought going alone would allow him to be undetected. We should have sent somepony with actual stealth training such as Schmutz or Traphe, but hindsight is 20/20. His scent was picked up by a blind giant mole rat. He could have killed them, but we still have hopes of taking their spider alive so he made a tactical retreat.
Charity's Journal 13th Malachite 102
We have our first blood in this endeavor, a craftspony was ambushed by a rodent man. It bit his wing, but he managed to break free and escape, he is not badly hurt and will fly again. The rodent man then swerved off and killed a tamed cougar cub, no real loss. However do to this attack we are putting the fort in high alert, until this is dealt with.
Charity's Journal 17th Malachite, 102
Scouts have told us the the rodent men are scattered and disorganized, and most importantly that they are far from their cave spider. We are beginning two separate actions. To the south, Granite is carving out a new tunnel to come up under the GCS to try and get it to follow him into a preset cage trap. Meanwhile Ramol and his squad of spear ponies are trying to deal with our Rat problem to the north, they have orders to avoid the GCS however.
Charity's Journal 19th Malachite, 102
Another pony has been taken by one of these curious moods. She has taken claim of the craftshop on the forge level which we usually just use for decorating metal work. This time it's an earthpony mare that was taken, she has no real skills, so I wonder what she will make.
Charity's Journal 21st Malachite 102
When Granite broke the surface the spider was no longer where reports had placed it. It was spotted a bit east of there again. Grifen is setting out to dig another tunnel closer to it's new position, he is volunteering to act as bait. Our prayers are with him that he will be swift.
Charity's Journal 22nd? Malachite, 102
A migrant arrived today, a lone unicorn mare. She says she's a doctor, family name Fancyguises. I don't know why or how she crossed the jungle to reach us, but more doctors can't hurt. I introduced her to Dr. Bubbles and they seemed to get along.
Charity's Journal 25th Malachite, 102
We have, suffered a set back. The giant cave spider is dead, as is mister Firstsong, our Master Blacksmith. He was always a loner, but many of the tools we use everyday were crafted by his hooves. Hugwax is livid. She had taken a personal interest in this endeavor and when she heard that Ramol's squad rushed in to fight the spider to try and save Firstsong, she was not happy. Hopefully she will let this go with time.
Charity's Journal 26th Malachite, 102
For his disregarding the orders the capture the GCS alive, Hugwax is placing Demora as his direct superior. Meaning he will take orders from her instead of from me. And if that wasn't bad enough she is having his whole squad beaten as an example. I argued his case but she would not listen. Hugwax and her followers have taken away my ability to command the military, and I fear she won't stop there.
Commander Ramol suffered a broken left front leg and sever bruising elsewhere.
Private 2nd Class Umil had his left front hoof broken and bruises all along that leg.
Private 1st Class Kussad, he was punished by Captain Demora personally and he got the worst of it, sever cuts along his upper and lower body, his left wing, and left front leg, and a gash across his right check where she ended her lashing. He is currently having trouble breathing, Friesden is looking over the wounded she thinks his lung is bruised.
Charity’s Journal 1st Galena, 102
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Agestokes%20the%20Notched%20Clearing.png)
The earthpony mare that was taken by a mood finished her work. It is a beautiful bracelet, made of tunnel tube wood. It is very nice and worth more than she is paid in two years, but still, I wish it had been something we could use.
Charity's Journal 4th Galena, 102
My eldest daughter Belle has become a mare today, there was a small party for friends and family only. She will be making a living as a singer/musician in the dinning hall from this day on.
Charity's Journal 13th Galena, 102
A zebra caravan has been spotted coming from the south-west. Demora has put 1st Lieutenant Kris in charge of providing an escort for them.
Charity's Journal 18th Galena, 102
Today, I am a grandmother. Kris had her foal at long last, a little unicorn filly. Adamant was so happy. And Cyptson was ecstatic. I wish Falcata was here to see this. Well I'm sure she was, but I wish she had been here physically, you know. The filly's name is Lorica, she has her mother's rainbow hair and a coat just a bit lighter than Adamant's, and she is a beautiful little filly.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Lorica.png)
Charity's Journal 20th Galena, 102
The Zebra traders have all but finished setting up the market in the soil layer, and our broker Adamant was looking over our collection of fine silks and cloths that we were going to trade to them, but an order came down from the Princess. No silk or cloth goods are to leave Glitterglen. This is insane. Most of the wealth brought into Glitterglen is from the export of Onol and Noleth's work (not to mention the gemcutters, weavers, farmers, miners, plant processors, dyers, and millers they keep employed with there business), and most of their considerable personal wealth comes from selling their work to ponies all over the world. Without this source of income they are ruined, and without our primary export, so is Glitterglen.
I have pleaded with the Princess to change her mind, I have begged her to remove this pointless ban, she has said that she is trying to get a new dress and nothing “Those two useless Skewer-headed mules who's horns would be better used as knitting needles,” (this was the nicest thing she called them during the whole talk, I couldn't possible repeat the other things she said) have made was good enough, so she is halting all cloth export until they make something she likes.
Even worse for Onol and Noleth is that she paid them upfront for one dress, but as she throws away completed design after completed design she hasn't give them anything extra at all, and with this new law they can't sell the finished work elsewhere, additionally, they are (rightfully, knowing the Princess) afraid to ask for more compensation.
Charity's Journal 22nd Galena, 102
I have thought it over, and I can't stand to see all these ponies suffer from this, but I know what I am going to. I'm in charge of the bookkeeping, in her months here she has not once had my work checked, I'm also the mayor and in charge of work orders, and with my authority as Duchess, and my eldest sons as our broker and work manager I think we can cover up our actions. Now we just need some ponies I can trust...
Khenal...I trust him more than anypony, when I told him my plan he was more than willing to lend his magic to help.
Otik and Starkey...As loyal as Otik is to Glitterglen it was no surprise that she would want to help. Starkey told me honestly that he had his reservations about it, but when I explained the depth of the situation and how many ponies it would affect he signed on.
Kris...When I told her that I needed Adamant's help for this to work and that it would put him in danger, I was worried she would be upset with me, especially so soon after they just had their first foal, but she just laughed and told me she just wanted to help, no matter what the risk.
Friesden...She is a kind soul and wanted to help, but I didn't know what role she could take in this. She has no training in stealth or combat, and while a medic might help if fighting with the guard breaks out, if we do have to fight, it would likely mean we've been found out, and I don't want her to be involved if it comes to that, but she'll be helping us, by watching the foals when needed, and helping us look over the forged paperwork and making sure it all looks legit.
Together we will be able to make sure Glitterglen's business remains open, even if it must be from the shadows.
Post by: Telgin on May 13, 2012, 09:23:44 pm
Today was probably the happiest day of my life. Today Addy and I finally got married! I've been looking forward to this day for a long time, but to finally have it come felt almost surreal. The stallion I love so much is now my husband! It really has been the happiest day of my life. Even if it wasn't perfect like every little filly dreams their wedding will be.
First and foremost, my mom and dad weren't there to see it. Well, I suppose they really were, out of sight but watching over us. I still wish they could have been there in person. All of Addy's family was there of course, so I wasn't short on family, but I couldn't help but feel a bit upset that my parents weren't there.
Things went a bit poorly at the reception though. I'll admit I didn't know much about Princess Hugwax, but I assumed she was a reasonable pony. After what her royal guard did though, I can't help but wonder. Her captain, whose name I gather is Demora, was very rude to Friesden and Khenal. That actually escalated to the point where Captain Isos had to step in and break them up. Both were given a night in jail for the disturbance.
I don't blame Khenal at all. I just can't believe that Demora. She deserves a night in jail, but Khenal was only doing what was right.
I'm pretty angry about the whole situation, but Addy told me it was best to drop it. They'll both be out in the morning, and this will all be a memory soon enough.
And besides, I've got the rest of my life together with Addy to look forward to. I'm going to stop writing now before I get too upset.
23rd Slate, 102
I was pretty angry at Demora last night, but I don't think that compares to how furious I am at Princess Hugwax today. I admit I didn't know much about her before she came to Glitterglen, but I assumed she was a reasonable pony. After all, she's the ruler of our principality. You'd have to be pretty reasonable to do that sort of thing, I thought.
I was wrong.
She had the nerve to pardon her lecherous captain and force Khenal to remain in jail for two months! For protecting his wife!
I talked with Khenal for a while today, both to give him some company and to help keep his mind off of things. What he told me was pretty mind blowing. I won't repeat everything he said to me here, but he's done a lot of things in the past... some of them pretty bad. I'd have never guessed that somepony like him could be responsible for that sort of thing.
But... for as long as I've known him he's been a kind and caring pony. Mom always told me he was a good pony, and I believe her. I believe he is a good pony. He's learned from his mistakes.
But not Hugwax. I... I don't know how to describe it. She's... well, Khenal thinks she is evil. After what he told me... I'm not sure I disagree.
I'm scared. She's here, and she has authority over Charity. I fear what she might do now.
9th Hematite, 102
Addy told me today that his mom had a pretty serious scare today. She killed one of the diomedian prisoners. I know how she feels. I still remember killing that thief. The one who foalnapped me and tried to take me from my mom. That was very hard. You never forget what that's like. Ever. Even now, after serving in the militia and seeing a lot more death than I'd have ever cared to, it's still hard.
I'll never for as long as I live forget what it was like watching grandpa Starkey get killed right before me, or seeing grandma Otik's corpse lying in the caverns... or sisters help me what it was like to see my mother slowly fade from this world in agony.
Killing a prisoner is different, but not as much as you'd think. Death is hard to watch, no matter how you see it.
23rd Hematite, 102
Khenal was released today, which was good to hear. Hugwax pushed for a maximum sentence, and she got what she wanted. I feel like I've been walking on coals around her every time I see her. If I make the slightest slip, she could do the same to me.
It's wearing on my nerves, but so far it hasn't turned out to be anything but me worrying. I don't need this stress right now. I don't think I've written about this yet, but I found out recently that I'm pregnant.
I suspected it for a while, when my armor didn't really fit anymore, and I've been steadily getting bigger. Faster than would be reasonable for just gaining weight. Anyway, I stopped by the hospital yesterday to get checked out, and Venture confirmed it's true.
I'm pretty excited, but also worried even more for it. Bringing a child into this world... Hugwax's world... it's scary. I wouldn't wish that on my unborn child, but nature decides for itself I suppose.
26th Malachite, 102
I said before I feared what Hugwax might do next, but now I know, and I'm even more afraid. A giant cave spider was spotted in the caverns below, and Captain Ramol personally oversaw the attempt to claim it. When he failed and ended up killing the spider, Hugwax placed that horrible Demora above him and had him and his squad beaten as an example. What madness grips this mare? I can't believe she'd do something so senseless, even after what Khenal told me.
Worst of all, now that she is giving the militia orders, she can order me to do anything.
I hope she doesn't ask me to do something horrible like that. I don't think I could go through with it if she did, and I'd just have to take whatever punishment she gave me instead.
And I dare her to do something to my husband. If she lays a hoof on him, she'll lay a hoof on nopony else ever again.
18th Galena, 102
Today was an extreme surprise, to say the least. Venture told me I wasn't due for a while yet, but I went into labor early this morning. I was pretty scared, and I think Addy was too, but everything worked out for the best. We hurried off to the hospital where everpony dropped what they were doing and started tending to me.
Childbirth is painful in ways I can't really relate on paper, nor could I have imagined it beforehoof. I was in labor for a few hours, and none of it was pleasant at all. Regardless, it was worth every moment of it.
Little Lorica entered the world today, and I couldn't be happier. She's the most beautiful little unicorn filly I've ever seen. She has my mane, my mother's eyes, and her coat is lavender. She's just beautiful.
I was worried with her coming prematurely that there would be problems, but she's a strong and healthy little filly nevertheless.
I'm exhausted though. Giving birth will do that to you. I'm going to need a while to rest up and to get to know our little foal. Addy was so happy when he got to hold her, and so am I when I'm holding her. She's just beautiful.
One more thing I wish mom and dad could be here to see...
22nd Galena, 102
Charity stopped by today to ask me about something very serious, and a bit frightening. She's planning on trying to subvert Hugwax's cloth ban, due to the overwhelming strain it's putting on our economy and many of the workers. It's a very risky thing to do, and she needs Addy's help. I'll admit I'm scared about the possibilities. If anything happens to either of them I'm going to be crushed. And righteously vexed with Hugwax.
I'm very worried about it, but I told Charity that I'd help in any way I can. After what I've come to know of Hugwax, I hate her. I want her and any influence she has gone. I'm not going to raise my newborn child under her oppressive rule. Anything I can do to help get around her is welcome. And once again, I dare her to harm Addy or his family. I dare her.
She didn't tell me much more than that, so maybe she hasn't really planned on what to do yet. But I'll help in any way I can.
For now though, I'm exhausted and I'm going to bed. Raising a newborn foal is more work than I could have imagined, even if it's a labor of love. Addy and I will have to take turns feeding her through the night. It's exhausting, but worth every moment.
Post by: DVNO on May 14, 2012, 03:41:24 am
“About last night...”
Hiero and Willow sat at adjoined booths at the bar, hair disheveled and dark ringed eyes sleep deprived.
“That? That was ...” Hiero looks at the slight cut in his right leg from where the handcuff had been. “That was... I don’t know what that was, But I loved it.”
“Don’t think that’sa gonn’a to be a regular thing now. That was a one - time thing.”
Willow stated bluntly with hint of saccharine affection
Hiero frowned “ye-ouch,so what are you saying?”
Willow sighed apologetically, realising how course that might sound
“Nah, I-”
She pauses
“I mean, I love ya hiero, just don’t expect weddin’ bells anytime soon, as colts like ta’ do. Don’t expect this to go anywhere pas’ this. I’m just a not the ‘settle down’ type”
Hiero was relieved
“That is Fine with me, the last time I thought about Wedding bells my bride-to-be kind of choked to death on noxious gas. I’m fine with no wedding bells.”
Willow spat out her shot
“Uh wha-!? Oh, Falcata, right.”
Hiero lifts his glass in the air
“Here’s to Falcata, the toughest Soldier to ever come out of Glitterglen!”
The other patrons of the bar also raised their glasses and shouted a unanimous “here here!”
Willow slides her red bang back
“I’m glad you fine with that.”
Hiero grinned
“casual sex with no commitment or responsibility on my part? How am I going to live on? “
They both plastered big dumb grins on their faces, locked the each other's legs at the elbow and downed their shots, then locked lips. they held that pose until
“So... what do you get out of all of this?”
Willow leans back
“guess you’re my big stress ball’, when I get nowhere ‘n this this cold case i’m work’in on.”
“Oooh, you’re on a secret mission, huh?”
“Guess you could say that.”
“I’ve been around, I know alot of history about this place. Maybe I can help with that.”
“Maybe. What do you know about a Couth Darkmane?”
“Sorry, that was before my time. All I know is he was trouble.”
“Yeah, ‘I been get’in that alot.” she said with a morose twinge
Hiero looked at her a shrewd look
“So... Is this for Khenal, Or?”
Willows eyes darted left
“Yeah... It’s just been on Khenal’s backburner forever so I said I would look into it”
“But why? That was four years ago.”
“Right, uh-”
She was starting to sweat now
“Every case is important! Even the old ones.”
Hiero cocked his head
“He tried to kill Charity, Charity stabbed him in the chest with her horn and rendered him into a fine red paste with a forcefield spell. What’s to close?”
Willow almost fell back in her stool
“Haha, what? I- what do you mean the pony I swore to protect killed my- WHAT!?” she cried with almost a contempt in her voice
Hiero tried to keep her stable
“It’s all right! Yeah, Charity defended herself. Khenal didn’t tell you any of this?”
Hiero inquired
Right when you think you see the whole picture-’ Willow thought
“Are you alright?”
“Hah, Oh, more than alright. It alllll makes sense now. Hugwax is going to die.” she said with A cryptic smile
There was a long awkward pause
“Well, Ok then-” Hiero eyed her with caution while he backed his last drink
“I need to go... -do- something.”
Hiero’s interest was piqued now, he was going straight to Khenal’s office to see what Willow was on about.
“Hahah!”
“The Bar’s about to close, are you-?”
“One more dirnk...Then I’ll be good.”Willow slurred woozily
Hiero shrugged and left along other patrons
“All right, last one.” the bartender said
“Great, great, Oh! hold on!” Willow whipped a small vial on poured half the contents into her drink
“What’s that?” The bartender wondered
“Oh this? whip out a glass and find out! It’s good.” Willow beamed
The bartender, curious, tried a glass with the rest of the contents
“That IS good! what is that?”
“Eastern fell jungle Snake poison” Willow over-enunciated with broad ‘E’s
“Which is?” The bartender asked, not quite following
“You know, Venom from snake, Idiot!” Willow laughed
“I-what!?....I-I-*Ack* The bartetnder gargled, haze white encroaching on the edges of his vision
“Side effects include inducing slight inflammation in the back of the skull, which presses on tha’ back of the spine’s base, slipping tha’ victim into an unconscious state. She recited warmly
“why would you.....” he bartender moaned
ya’ know, it’s funny, I wass sooooo worried my former boss was gonna’ slip this stuff to mah’ ‘n have his way with me I’ built a tolerace to the stuff. I started takin’ a sip, tha’ it turn into a teaspoon, tha’ a tabel spoon. then I...
She realised her audience was asleep, and stroked his mane. Then She turns her attention the bar’s hearth (fireplace), which she wanted to take a look at ever since she walked in. It’s wholly unremarkable, just a typical cobblestone outlet with an iron grate and some coals, if it weren't for the small insignia chiseled into one of the stones she might have overlooked it.
That was the Startame insignia. That was meant to grab her attention. What was Couth hiding? she looked the wall over and over until she found a keyhole. False wall, clever. she gave the door a swift kick, it held fast. she grumbled, and looked around to see if she could macgyver lockpicks out of anything nearby. a bottle opener and a toothpick did the job. the door swung open to reveal a claustrophobic stairwell that slowly delved down into a black abyss. ‘Oh perfect! Nothing but good things come out of dungeons, right?’ Willow thought sarcastically.
Willow snapped off a nearby chair leg, wrapped a table cloth around the broken end, smashed a bottle of alcohol across the cloth wad, saturating it with flammable booze, held the stick up to the unconscious unicorn bartender’s horn, slammed his head on the granite bar table, which, though a synapse in his brain, produced a spark out of his horn, and viola! a torch the old fashioned way. Willow descended into the unknown.
Post by: DVNO on May 17, 2012, 11:24:58 pm
Couth’s Diary
Entry 1
The bitch lied. The bitch lied to me. Hugwax crawled into my head and told me to kill charity. she whispered in my ear if I did this, I would live like a king. She filled my head with white noise whenever I thought up an objection. Now the deed is done, and she’s finally silent.
The bitch lied to me.
Entry 2
My stunt at the trial bought me some time. Some ponies are concerned about the power pact Charity, Starkey, and Khenal have over the fort. A few are even willing to do something about it. If I play these cards I’ve been dealt with some strategy, I can still come out of this on top.
Entry 3
It’s over. It’s all over. the ‘cult’ has been rounded up by the Commissar, and they’ll come for me and Bokbon next. I’m loading her up with all the coin I have saved at the Bar and getting her to Talintranced. I’m going to Psycho Carrot’s grave and fighting the Commissar head-on to buy her some time. She told me she'll tell stories to our child how heroic his father was. Heroic. Heroism. A hero is just a pony who knows he’s lost. Indeed I am a hero. A hero like my white knight sister Willow.
For her and Bokbon I will not run. I will stand, with my shoulders square and tall, and take my bow with pride. Willow, when you read this diary, and I know you will, you won't rest until you do, just know that you were right. no matter how hard I shouted you down, you were always right. And that hunch in that back of your mind saying that even after what you did to me, and how it put me in this situation in the first place, I still love you? That was right aswell."
Willow let the book fall from her hooves
A phrase the Princess and Mr. Startame said so long ago rattled around her head over and over and over. It’s been blaring since Hiero mentioned Couth and Charity in the same sentence.
“...and this Street Rat can kill that glorified embezzler Charity?” Hugwax inquired
“...Anything can be done, for a price.” Startame grinned
Now, too late, all the pieces fit together
“Hux Is going to die!” Willow screamed
((end scene))
Post by: KingStrongbeard on May 24, 2012, 02:19:40 am
Charity's Journal 19th Galena, 102
Today, my friends and family and myself, all became criminals. Adamant negotiated with the zebra caravan, explained about the export ban, and took great personal risk to offer to work with them to get around it. Officially, we traded them a few totems, some junk the Diomedians had and a number of silver and gold trinkets and goblets for a very nice profit, truthfully, when we factor in the value in cloth work we snuck past the Royal Guard, and they made a small fortune in profit. However, they are taking a huge risk in helping us. I personally paid the tailors for their work, and while they didn't make as much as they are accustomed to having, the looks on their faces when I handed them that sack of bits made it all worth it. They will be able to keep their business running and their families fed, at least until the next caravan.
Charity's Journal 15th Limestone, 102
We had a close call. It was only thanks to Traphe overhearing the Royal Guard planning the night before that we were able to warn the traders. They were going to search the traders for any contraband before allowing them to leave. I asked Khenal about putting a small illusion over the exports, but he informed me that Demora is a null and if she got to near an illusion it would probably fail. Thus we needed another plan.
Instead what we did was the night before was Starkey and Khenal helped one of the zebras sneak the crates of silk and cloth out into the jungle were the caravan would pick them up on their way out. Otik, with a bit of help from Kris, provided a distraction for guards taking watch on the surface, while I had a late meeting with Hugwax and Demora to make sure they weren't around, while the others worked. It all went perfectly.
Charity's Journal 3rd Sandstone, 102
A single migrant arrived today. An earthpony fisher, named, Kerlig Fedscale. He has no other skills. He was incredibly skinny, but I offered him a position in the guard here, anyway, and he accepted. Isos will have some work to do whipping him into something that can intimidate anypony, but he seems to be a good sort of pony.
Charity's Journal 13th Sandstone, 102
Today the roads for the jungle are officially finished, but actual construction finished up a week ago. Khenal threw a party for all the ponies involved in the work yesterday, it was very pleasant.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Khenal%20throws%20a%20party.png)
But with that work finally complete that means, we can finally begin work on the new defensive walls around the city. It's time to take back the surface!
Charity's Journal 14th Sandstone, 102
There was a training accident today in the arena, fortunately no pony was hurt. 1st Lieutenant Kris and her squad were set to do some live training with captured rodentman. However, somepony, forgot to lock the door before freeing the prisoners, and one of the rodent men made it out into the hall were he attacked, Istbar, one of the mechanics, he managed to kill it himself though, with naught but his bare hooves and is unharmed.
Word quickly reached the Princess's ears about the accident. She sent Tor and Pound down to lecture Kris, and strip her of her command. She hasn't been demoted but Moral was made the new Captain, and she now answers directly to him, instead of to the higher ups.
I'm not happy about this at all. Moral has a reputation and I don't like Kris being his subordinate. But I can't do anything about it, officially, since I don't have command of our armed forces any longer.
Charity's Journal 28th Sandstone, 102
One of the pegasan weavers has been possessed. Fortunately, it seems to be one of those spirits that just wants to make something. He has taken over one of the clothing shops and is gathering materials. I'll have...I mean I'll suggest to the Princess that a guard be posted near him.
The last time this happened a pony produced the beautiful robes I am wearing now. I look forward to seeing what he makes.
((The following scene took place on the 4th of Timber, 102))
Charity makes her way down the hall towards Khenal and Friesden’s home. She had on her back a small wooden case. Osal made his way behind her, always vigilant but trying to be as unobtrusive to the duchess as he could. When Charity reaches her destination she raises her hoof and knocks thrice upon the door.
Friesden comes to the door, a worried expression changing to relief as she sees who is knocking at her chamber door. “Oh, Charity. Osal. Come in, come in! Khenal’s not here at the moment, but he might be back soon. I think he might be off training... Can I get you something to eat? Something to drink?” She opens the door wide enough for them to get through, showing her three little foals playing by themselves in the corner.
Charity walks right in and begins to move toward the table, setting the elegantly carved wooden box upon the table. On the lid was seven ponies and a wagon traveling, it refers to the founding of Glitterglen by the Vermin of Twilight in 94. The latch is a gold colored metal and the sides of the box are adorned with jade and ivory. “A glass of pegasan ale would be lovely if you have any, Friesden.” says the duchess as she takes a seat.
“I’ll be out here if you need me Duchess.” Says Osal as he moves to stand guard by the door.
“I think we have some, I’ll go get you a glass,” says Friesden as she moves to the room’s cellar, before retrieving a glass of it and returning to the table. “So...Is this about the smuggling thing, Charity?” she asks, placing the glass on the table.
Charity samples the ale, it was wonderful as always, before answering. “In a way it is Friesden, but mostly, it’s because I have a gift for you.” she taps a hoof gently upon the wooden box. “I...hope that it isn’t something you will ever need, but I want you to have it...just in case.” she says with a hint of sadness in her voice.
“W-what do you mean, Charity?” Friesden asks with a hint of fear. “What gift?”
Charity pushes the ornate box toward her friend. “Open it and take a look.” she says.
Friesden builds up her courage for a second before opening the box and looking inside.
As Friesden lifts the lid she sees before her, resting on a bed of velvet a dagger still in its sheath. The sheath appears to be made of worked hoof or horn, the handle is ivory. It menaces with spikes of gold.
“A d-d-d-d-d-d-dagger?” Friesden squeaks. “I...O-o-o-o-o-okay...”
“As I said, I truly hope you never find cause to use it, but...if somepony threatens you or your family,” Charity looks to the foals playing in the corner, “I don’t want you to be unarmed. You are my friend Friesden, and I would not want to see anything happen to you...and with what your husband and I are doing...” Charity leaves the sentence unfinished, Friesden already knew what it would mean if they were caught, there was no reason to mention it again.
“O-o-o-o-o-okay, Charity,” she says with an aside glance to her three little foals playing behind them.
Charity looks back the weapon, “The blade is made of the last processed Adamantine in the fortress. It is incredibly sharp, and Ironya poured her heart into crafting that blade. It is one of her greatest masterpieces. Please be careful not to cut yourself with it. A dagger like that can cut through bone like a knife through butter...I know, I’ve done it.”
Friesden gulps silently, and nods. “O-o-o-okay, Charity.” With three little alicorn foals, where would she put it to keep them safe? She’d have to talk with Khenny about that.
Charity looks at Friesden, she was clearly afraid of the idea of having to use this weapon, maybe even afraid of the weapon itself, “Friesden, you...should ask Khenal to teach you how to use that. He and Cryptson have been teaching me, but I’m afraid I haven’t been a very good student. However, when you know how to use it properly, it might help you feel more comfortable with it.”
“I...I think I will, yes,” Friesden says. “I...Thank you, Charity.”
Charity takes another sip from her drink and looks back to the foals playing. Deciding to change the subject to something a bit more pleasant, she asks, “So Friesden, what’s it like raising three alicorn foals?”
“It’s...It’s a bit tiring...Kris and Adamant have helped us a lot, though. He’s such a sweet colt. You’re lucky to have him as a son.”
((End Scene))
Charity's Journal 7th Timber, 102
The weaver finished his item. A very fine long skirt. He doesn't remember making it though.
Friesden was quite taken with the dress though, so I bought it from the weaver and gifted it to her. I don't know if the silver thread is really her color, but she looks good in whatever she wears anyway.
Charity's Journal 14th Timber, 102
A cave pony caravan has been spotted. As always we are thankful for the trade, but knowing that we must again defy the Princess, does not fill me the hope these meetings once did.
Charity's Journal 19th Timber, 102
I had a new chanfron crafted for Kris. It is a work of art, and strong enough to stop just about anything. I can't wait to give it to her...
((Another gift giving scene))
Charity makes her way down the stairs from her office toward the home of her son and daughter in law. She has a head sized package upon her back and a smile on her face. Upon reaching the door, she knocks three times.
Kris looks up from the sleeping filly in her forelegs with an air of curiosity. “Just a moment,” she says, heading over to the door. As she opens it, she sees Charity standing there with a pleasant expression on her face. “Oh, hello Charity!”
Charity levitates the package so it would not fall as she gives her daughter in law a hug. “Hello Kris, how are you?”
Kris happily returns the hug. “A bit tired,” she answers truthfully, looking down to Lorica. “But great otherwise. How are you?” she asks, making a berth for Charity to join her inside.
Charity makes her way inside, once the door is closed behind her, and she places the package upon the table she says, “Tired, stressed, worried, jumping at my own shadow, same as usual for the past 8 years really, I can’t complain.”
Kris nods in response, unsure if she should make light of it with a chuckle or not. Charity certainly did have enough to worry about, even before Hugwax showed up. She notices the package and asks, “What do you have there?”
Charity taps the package with a forehoof and with a smile say, “A present, for you.”
“A present?” she asks, smiling but with an air of curiosity. “Oh, you didn’t have to do that.”
Charity shakes her head, “No, Kris, I did. And besides...it’s really more of a practical gift anyway. I think you’ll get a lot of use out of it, though I hope you never, need it.”
That piqued her interest for sure. She cautiously opens the package, wondering what Charity thought she might need, but feared she wouldn’t.
As Kris opens the box she sees resting inside it a beautiful Adamantine chanfron of the highest quality, it was gilded with gold and had Copper wire running around its edges. On the top sticking up next to the hole where her horn would go, was two large ivory; tusks, or teeth or horns, Kris couldn’t be sure. The item was clearly a work of art, but with the base of Adamant, it would be able to protect her from nearly any blow.
Kris takes a moment to absorb the masterful quality of the piece of armor. “Charity... this... this is beautiful. It must be worth a fortune.” She turns her eyes to her mother in law and gives her a large, sincere smile. “Thank you so much.” She understood now what Charity meant. “Is... there a special occasion?”
Charity smiles, “No, no special occasion. But if you want...” Charity looks to her sleeping grandfilly across the room, “Think of it as a late birthday present for Lorica. She certainly wants to see you come back as much as the rest of us.”
That struck home, and she nods gravely. “And I never want to leave her alone.”
Charity seeing that conversation had taken a turn for the grim, tries to refocus it. “Kris, you might be interested to know where the teeth on your new chanfron came from. They came from that cyclops that Captain Khenal slew. I didn’t know Bokbon had saved them, but when I mentioned wanting her to work on this project she pulled them out of a small case and insisted they be used on it.”
She examines the bony protrusions. “Ah, yes, that makes sense. Fitting, considering what happened.” She tries the chanfron on, and grins as it fits perfectly. “Do send my thanks, it really adds something to an already beautiful piece.”
Charity nods, “I’m glad you like it, I shall tell all the ponies who worked on what you think of it.”
“Thank you,” she repeats, placing it back on the table and admiring it again. “I’ll put it to good use, you can be sure of that,” she says stepping back over to Charity and hugging her again.
Charity hugs Kris back, “You are welcome Kris.”
((End scene))
Charity's Journal 10th Moonstone, 102
Hugwax, continues her insane policies, but we traded with the Cavies all the same. Decided to preemptively move the contraband to a hiding place in the jungle. Acquired a lot of goods from them this year. A lot of metal bars and goods. No trouble with the Royal Guard yet.
Charity's Journal 14th Moonstone, 102
There were spottings of a tribe of cave swallow men down in the caves and they had attacked, several of our workers, The hammer and whip squads were dispatched and they sent the animals running after a short fight. Noponies where hurt.
Charity's Journal 15th Moonstone, 102
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/41621737/Fort/Otik%27s%20Baby.png)
Otik and Starkey's foal was at last born today. Her name is Zarya and she is a unicorn. Starkey and Otik haven't looked so happy
Spoiler (click to show/hide)
The dinning hall and my home are fulled with water up to my next. It seems the drainage system is clogged. No pony was hurt thankfully, though most of my things are ruined, it is fortunate that I keep my diary on the top shelf or I might have lost this record too.
Charity's Journal 21st Moonstone, 102
Well, I'm still effectively homeless. The family slept at the homes of some of our friends. Hugwax is naturally blaming me for the water being turned off, my desk is flooded with complaints about the showers not working, The well nearest the hospital has run dry, and I had to listen to chief Medical Pony Doctor Bubbles ranting about how his hospital needs running water. This is a huge mess, and all the complaints aren't making it go any faster.
Charity's Journal 1st Opal, 102
Water is still not working. Cryptson and Granite have been working overtime since the flood to get dig a new passage to drain the flooded area to let us work on the problem. The area is draining now, and it seems that a woody fungus like those that grown in the caverns has grown in the drainage pipe cutting off the flow of water. We will remove it, expand the drains so this happen again soon, hopefully, and then turn the water back on soon, I hope
Charity's Journal 15th Opal, 102
As soon as I finish writing this entry, I will be pulling the lever that will lower the floodgate allowing water to once again flow through the halls of Glitterglen. If our engineering work is sound we should have no problems.
Charity's Journal 19th Opal, 102
Just as soon as we were finally resettled in our home after cleaning away the mud and replacing everything lost to the water damage, I went into labor. It was a very easy birth compared to my other children. The foal was a unicorn colt. His coat is golden rod and his eyes are gold, and his mane the color of burnt umber. We aren't entirely sure were his coloration comes from. All of Cryptson's family are dark blue or indigo, and my coat is off-white, and none of our other foals have this coloration. Still, the Sisters work in mysterious ways sometimes. We named our new son Golden Rule.
Charity's Journal 13th Obsidian 102
A lone Darkbolt Mare was spotted making her way toward Glitterglen. She was only not shot on site because she came in elegant dress. She is apparently the Rainbow Coalition Diplomat. I can't imagine why they would send her, a darkbolt, here, alone. Seems reckless, half of our troops would have assumed she was an enemy and shot her on sight traveling alone like that. She got lucky.
Charity's Journal 14th Obsidian 102
A caravan from the Rainbow ponies has been spotted in the jungle. As has one from the old capital city.
Charity's Journal 22nd Obsidian, 102
Captain Jaxler of the Skyguard was taken by a fey mood. He rushed up to the surface, abandoning his post by the cavern gate and took control over the mason's shop that produces the marble blocks for the wall. He has started gathering materials.
Charity's Journal 28th Obsidian, 102 (New Year's Eve. Early.)
Willow knocks on charity’s office. She heard murmurs. rumors. whispers that Charity was starting a rebellion. If she was, Willow wanted in
‘How was this going to play out?’ Willow wondered
Mere moments after knocking the door opens just a crack and Madush’s voice echos outward, “Willow? What need have you of the Duchess?” Willow notes that security seems to have been raised of late, as she’d never heard of a pony needing a reason for an audience with Charity before.
“Madush? Is that you? How’ve ya’ been?” She grinned
“I have som’thin the Duchess would really, really, like ta’ see. It mi’ght jus’ change everything.”
“could ya’ let me in? I don’t got no weapons. Just a friendly chat.”
Madush opens the door to allow Willow inside. “Come in.” Willow notices he had a loaded crossbow at the ready just behind the door. He moves aside and lets Willow into the still small and cramped office, that Charity had been working out of for the past 8 years.
Charity sat at her desk, looking over stockpile records. It was tiring, and dull work, she was grateful for the distraction. “Hello, Willow. What is it you wanted to show me?” she says knowing whatever the guard wanted it would be more interesting than this.
“ ‘ello, Charity. Direct. I like that.”
Willow eases herself into a chair
“So, A little pegusai told me you don’t like Hugwax. I don’t either. In fact, I have a li’l something that could prove what she Really is.”
she holds Couth’s Diary up
“but first, I need to know two things....”
Charity’s mind began to race. Willow’s in the fortress guard. How much does she know? Is this a set up? Trying to see how much I’ll confess to? Unless she’s telling the truth? Can I trust her? She’s given good info before, but I don’t know where her loyalty lies....
“I don’t know what you are talking about,” begins Charity, “I have nothing but respect for her Majesty Princess Dizesh Hugwax.”
Willow grinned at Charity’s sudden pensiveness at the question. In truth, no one told her anything concrete. It was a hunch, a correct one.
“Oh, really? your sweaty hooves and your increased guard detail says otherwise. Relax. That tyrant’s going to die and I don’t care if you lock me up for say’in it. I’d rather be locked up for walki’n the wrong side of tha’ line, than live silent. An’ I know you would too.”
She sits back
“ya know, for ‘a politician, you’re a terrible liar. I like that too.”
Charity sits back a bit, "So...supposing for a moment that I wasn't planning to lock you up for treason. What is she really that that little book can prove?"
“A liar, a plotter, a schemer. Against you, namely. But-”
Her cool cracks for a moment, she has no idea what’s going to happen next. She gave a deep pause, then says
“First things first. My last name ain’t E-Emeraldstud. It’s ... Darkmane. Is this gonna be a problem?” Willow asks, tasting nervousness for the first time
Charity's eyes go wide, mouth gapping, Madush springs into action and points a crossbow directly at Willow Darkmane, waiting for any sudden moves.
A moment passes, Charity recollects herself. "A...a Darkmane, you say. That isn't a very welcome name around here, I take it you know by now. I assume you are associated with Couth Darkmane then? If you worked with that monster why should I trust you? Especially since you’ve been hiding the fact."
Willow slid the black book towards Charity and slowly raises her hooves slowly up in the air. She looked down sullenly, She knew she deserved this treatment
“You shouldn't. No sane pony would. But just know, If I did want you dead, I certainly wouldn't spend months loyally serving you, and certainly wouldn't get romantic with one of your mitiltaponies. It’d be a much cleaner operation than that. It’s funny you treat me with suspicion, considering someone so much closer to you wants you dead.”
she nods at the book
“That’s Couth’s diary. Read the last entries at least. Then I’ll be on my way off this fort if you wish. Hell, if you read that and still want to suck on Hugwax’s heel I don’t want to be under your command anyway.”
Charity eyes Willow, and slowly takes up the book, she turns to the last 3 entries and reads them. As Charity reads the book Madush finally lowers his crossbow, but keeps it at the ready and keeps his eyes on the Darkmane mare. Charity’s expression turns sour as she reads, when she finishes, she drops the book quite violently upon the desk. “If...if this is real...If this is all true, then...then Hugwax has been behind so much of what has gone wrong here, and she would be responsible for 3 attempts on my life, not to mention the cultists activities led by Darkmane, and all the blood they spilled. But I still don’t understand one thing. Why? If she had never banished me here, I would never have been anything worth killing. What is her game? Why does she want me dead?”
Willow shrugs
“Jealousy over your success in these jungles, maybe? Maybe you’re a mistake she fears now. I do not know. All I do know Is if you’re done taking her kicks? Want to strike back? This master saboteur will be ready for the word, commander.”
Charity nods, “I will take this information to heart Willow. I’m not sure why you are telling me all this, but...whatever I do next will take some planning. I will tell the others however, that you are a friend, and you will be informed when it is time to act.”
Because a war doesn't start with empty words, it start with a gut of anger. Willow knows she can’t can’t kill the princess alone, but with the rage of the duchess at her back? maybe, just maybe
Willow bows her head “Consider it the very least I could do to atone for the pain my brother caused you all. I can’t re-colour your notions of him, but I can still affirm we ain’t all bad. I’ll take my leave.”
Madush sees the Darkmane out of Charity’s office once she is gone and the door bared, he turns and sees Charity looking up at the statue of Khenal and the darkbolt, looking pensive. “Duchess?...Charity? What happens next?” he asks her.
“Now? Now you bring them here; Starkey, Otik, Cryptson, Kris, and Khenal. Tell them they can bring anyone they really truely trust, and that nopony else must know.”
Post by: Telgin on May 27, 2012, 01:19:42 pm
((This. This will probably be the final fortress update for Glitterglen. The scenes that follow this one, will lead to the end. It has been a pleasure writing this tale with you all, and I wouldn't trade the time I spent on this for anything. Thank you all for putting up with this. When I started this all those months ago, I couldn't have imagined it would get this big, and I'm so happy with how it all turned out. Thank you those who helped make this story happen. And if there is anyone out there either now, or in the future who has read all this non-sense. Thank you as well, for giving us all a chance. I hope you enjoyed this story half as much as I did. But Glitterglen isn't done just yet. We still have one more chapter to write.))
((I too would like to take a moment to say that I have enjoyed this immensely. I hope my contribution to this has been positive, it actually took me close to a month to gather the courage to join in the first place. I've really enjoyed working with you all on this, and would dare say this has taught me a lot of things I'd have never believed I'd learn by roleplaying ponies in Dwarf Fortress. I've lost a lot of sleep over this, in both the good and bad sense, but I'm stronger for it I think.
Nevertheless, I wouldn't have preferred to be doing anything else. I've had too much fun working with you guys, and I look forward to working with you again quite soon. And now for Kris' final proper journal entry:))
Kris' Diary - 19th Galena, 102
Well, today is the day. Today we started trading illegal things to the merchants to save the clothiers and everypony else in the industry from starving to death. Addy was the real hero here, since he's the broker. I'm proud of him, he pulled it all off flawlessly and now a lot of ponies will have the money they desperately need. I worried about him all day, though, you can be sure, and was overwhelmingly relieved when he got home. Hugwax had better not touch him. If she or her "guards" try to enforce her ludicrous export ban by hurting my Addy...
No, best not to even think about it. This isn't a problem that can be solved with might. Charity and Addy are smart, a lot smarter than I am. This is a battle that will be solved with stealth, guile and wits. I'll help however I can, but I fear there is little I can do.
15th Limestone, 102
Things didn't go quite as smoothly today. I don't know the details, but grandma Otik came to me and asked me to come along to distract the guards while some more contraband was taken out into the jungle covertly. I wasn't really sure what to do, but it was easy enough to just make some noise at the right time and lure the few guards away. It was just captain Isos' stallions and mares watching, so if things went poorly we might have avoided a serious encounter with Hugwax, but in the end we didn't have to find out.
I'm still pretty frightened to think of what might happen if we get caught. I have no doubt Hugwax would want our heads. I know this isn't a fight I can win with my mother's hammer... but if I have to fight to protect the ponies I love, I will. No matter the cost.
At least for now that hasn't been a worry.
14th Sandstone, 102
I'm a bucking idiot.
My squad was scheduled to perform some training on a few of the strange rodent creatures captured from the caverns, and I bucked it up. I forgot to lock the door to the arena. That's number one on the checklist. No matter what happens, you can't let anything get out where it can hurt the civilians.
Well, I bucked up and forgot. I suppose maybe somepony else should have caught my mistake, but I'm the one who forgot, and I owned up to the mistake like a mare.
Naturally one of the things made a run for it and escaped, where he ran into Istbar. I thought for sure I was going to watch him get mauled, but thank the sisters he got lucky or is a natural at fighting, since he slew the rodent monster without our help. Of course, word spread all across Glitterglen after that, and it wasn't long before Hugwax heard and sent her underlings to chew me out. I'll admit I was almost shaking at the thought of it. I haven't forgotten what she did after the giant cave spider was lost.
Instead of that horrible, sadistic Demora, she sent Tor and Pound instead. I'm not sure which would have been worse; being whipped in front of my squad by her or being beaten in front of them by Tor and Pound. I fully expected that, but it didn't happen, thank the sisters. I won't believe for a moment they were being merciful. They must have been busy and in a hurry. So they just settled for a lot of shouting.
I won't repeat most of what they said, but a number of colorful variations of calling me "an insufferable foal" and "a bucking careless joke" later and I was biting back tears. You can bet that helped. When they saw that, they shouted even more and put Morul in charge of the squad instead of "a blubbering school filly."
I've never been so humiliated in all of my life. I wanted to just run away and hide somewhere, and never see any of them again. Maybe it's a good thing Morul is in charge instead of me now. I never really deserved it anyway, and now I won't have to try to soldier on and actually lead anypony when I can barely look them in the face.
I feel horrible. I felt even worse before I talked with Addy, but this isn't something that is going to just be okay. Every time I think about it I feel terrible all over again. Celestia help me, I can still hear their shouting and taunting... after grandpa Starkey was killed I wanted to quit the militia. I really want to now. How am I going show up for training tomorrow? Or even if I bump into somepony from my squad in the halls?
15th Sandstone, 102
Training went worse than I could have really predicted. Things were extremely awkward at first, as I expected. I couldn't really look anypony in the eyes, and they seemed to be just as happy to avoid me as I was of them. I can only imagine what they must have been saying behind my back.
Then Morul showed up.
I'll admit I didn't think about this yesterday, after having my soul thoroughly crushed by Tor and Pound, but Morul... has a bit of a reputation. I don't know everything, but from what I understand he has made some inappropriate advances on some of the mares in Glitterglen. I didn't realize at the time just what I might be dealing with.
Anyway, he ordered me to spar with him, which I obeyed. I'm sure I wasn't giving it my all, after what happened, but he thoroughly and soundly beat me. Then he did it again, and again. He beat me so badly the first two times, I don't know what he was trying to prove, but the third time went about the same. I've got half a dozen bruises all over my body, and ache like I haven't since my first week of training.
I've always noticed Morul didn't like me. I assumed it was because I was placed in charge of him despite him having seniority over me, but I think it might run deeper than that. I'm pretty sure he actually hates me, and that sparring session was a way to prove to everypony that he was better than me and that I never deserved to lead him. He might have been afraid to make that known before, but now he's free to order me around. I'll admit I'm actually scared. I don't know what might happen.
I mean, I don't expect it to really come to something... inappropriate... but if it did, I don't know what I'd do. He's proven that he's stronger, faster and more skilled than I am.
I don't think it's going to be a problem. I... I think he's satisfied now that I know he's stronger than me. I think that's all he wanted to prove.
I hope so. If not... I'm not helpless... but... I am a bit nervous.
19th Timber, 102
Charity stopped by our home today while I was off, and brought what must have been the most beautiful chanfron I've ever seen in my life. It's made of beautiful adamantine and is decorated with some the remains of that monster that Khenal slew. It's a true work of art, and I asked her to send my thanks to the armorers for their outstanding work. I also thanked her again for the gift, I have no doubt it's worth a small fortune.
I wasn't sure what the occasion was, but Charity just told me that she wanted me to be safe and to always come back to them. That's something I can really relate to. Every time I look at Lorica, I can't help but think of my mother. I know she did everything she could for me, and I'll never blame my mom for giving up her life to protect everypony in Glitterglen, but I never want to leave Addy or Lorica, or any of my friends. I know what that feels like. It's almost unbearable.
I'm not sure if I should wear the chanfron to training tomorrow. Morul hasn't really been particularly hateful to me since he humiliated me in front of the rest of the squad, but if I show up with that he might get annoyed at Charity playing "favorites" again. I know he still hates me, I can see it in the way he cuts his eyes to me and the way he speaks to me.
Well, forget him. Charity and the armorers went through a lot of effort and expense to forge it for me, and I'm going wear it proudly.
10th Moonstone, 102
Addy put himself in danger again today to trade forbidden goods with the cave ponies. We've been lucky so far with the trading, but I fear our luck will run out soon. Still, I stand behind Addy and Charity. And I'll literally stand behind them if I have to to protect them.
14th Moonstone, 102
We were sent into the caverns today to scare away some bird creatures that were harrassing the workers. It was pretty uneventful, and I didn't even have a chance to swing my weapon before they were all sent scurrying away from us. Some ponies might say that it's boring or menial, but after seeing real combat against armed and armored soldiers, I'm happy to stay down here and help guard the civilians.
15th Moonstone, 102
Today was quite a happy day! Grandma Otik gave birth to her filly, who is a little unicorn just like Lorica! She was a beautiful little filly, and I don't think I've ver seen my grandparents so happy.
I know they're going to have their hooves full with the baby, as I could have never predicted how much work Lorica would be. Grandma Otik at least has some experience with raising children, so maybe it won't be such a shock to her. I'm not sure about Grandpa Starkey though.
Anyway, I'll be happy to help them out however I can. And I'm sure Lorica will be happy to have somepony to play with when she gets a little older.
22nd Moonstone, 102
Charity had a bit of a mishap a few days ago that ended up flooding her office, and her family has been forced to lodge with others while they figure out what went wrong. She and Cryptson stayed with us tonight, while the children I assume spent the night with Khenal and Friesden, or maybe my grandparents. I don't mind them staying with us for as long as they need, but I'm sure they want to get home as soon as possible.
19th Opal, 102
Charity gave birth again today, to a unicorn colt! Lorica alone has been enough work for me and Addy, I don't know how she can stand raising so many children herself. I guess having so many children in a way helps in its own way, since Addy used to help his mother out a lot with raising the younger foals. I'm happy for her and the family, and I'm happy that Lorica will have another playmate soon enough.
Kust like grandma Otik and grandpa Starkey, I offered to help her out whenever she needs it.
Post by: Khenal on May 27, 2012, 10:11:26 pm
Khenal's Secret, Entry 32
So the smuggling begins. I wish we didn't have to do this, but Hugwax left everypony no choice. Her unreasonable demands will ruin Glitterglen, and I'm just glad that Charity had an idea to keep us going. Using magic to hide the crates will be very risky, but Charity and Adamant had ideas for hiding the dresses and clothes with mundane means. I hope this works, I don't know if Glitterglen will survive if it doesn't.
Entry 33
I threw a small party for everypony involved with the roads today, celebrating their hard work in finishing them. I didn't expect so many to show up, but at least Hugwax and her cronies stayed away from this celebration. They probably thought a party for working class ponies was beneath them. I'd feel indignant about their absence, but nopony wanted them there in the first place. At least her arrogance doesn't ruin everything.
Entry 34
I don't believe for a moment that Kris forgot to lock the door before fighting those rodent things. She's good with details, there's no way she'd forget to lock that door. It also feels too coincidental to me. Hugwax now has her cronies in leadership positions in all branches of the military. This bodes ill for Glitterglen.
Post by: Beeskee on May 30, 2012, 03:49:44 pm
((This. This will probably be the final fortress update for Glitterglen. The scenes that follow this one, will lead to the end. It has been a pleasure writing this tale with you all, and I wouldn't trade the time I spent on this for anything. Thank you all for putting up with this. When I started this all those months ago, I couldn't have imagined it would get this big, and I'm so happy with how it all turned out. Thank you those who helped make this story happen. And if there is anyone out there either now, or in the future who has read all this non-sense. Thank you as well, for giving us all a chance. I hope you enjoyed this story half as much as I did. But Glitterglen isn't done just yet. We still have one more chapter to write.))
I'll be very sad to see this end. I haven't participated, but I've been following along, and it's been wonderful. :)
One question, if Hugwax is such a pain in the tail, why not give her a nice magma bath? Personally, I try to avoid that, but it's a pretty regular way to dispose of the overly pesky nobles. Though I guess perhaps that's what this next chapter will be about.
Post by: Impending Doom on May 30, 2012, 04:00:41 pm
Post by: KingStrongbeard on May 30, 2012, 06:09:02 pm
I'll be very sad to see this end. I haven't participated, but I've been following along, and it's been wonderful. :)((Well I'm glad you have enjoyed it, and yes, the next chapter will involve us dealing with the Princess. Additionally, as Impending has said, in game Hugwax hasn't been a problem at all. Made some royal rooms for her and haven't heard from her since. Not a demand or mandate to be seen. But we had been planning on making her a villain since long before she arrived, and so a villain she must be.))
One question, if Hugwax is such a pain in the tail, why not give her a nice magma bath? Personally, I try to avoid that, but it's a pretty regular way to dispose of the overly pesky nobles. Though I guess perhaps that's what this next chapter will be about.
((This is the first scene that will begin to work us toward the ending. I'll be honest, I'm not entirely happy with it, but we've been sitting on it for days and we need to move on to the next part.))
The Duchess Charity stands in her office, waiting for her friends to arrive. She takes the moment to strengthen the sound masking spells she had woven into the room’s walls when they started the smuggling operation. When finished she sighs to herself, and takes her seat, and waits for Madush to return with her most trusted advisors. She looks around the room at the statue of Khenal, and the engraving of then ‘Commander’ Starkey, along with other symbols of the town, no the city, she had helped to build. She did not know what her friends would say, or even what she wanted them to say, but there was no time for waiting, not as long as Hugwax was still in power.
After what feels like an eternity to Charity, there is a knock at the door followed by Madush’s voice, announcing his return with the others. The door opens and the other ponies file in. Madush remains outside to keep watch.
Among the arrivals is Lord Cryptson, who had just been pulled from working with Granite in the mines. He was concerned, it wasn’t like his wife to suddenly call this many ponies to her tiny office, and if it was a pleasant occasion they would have been meeting in the much more spacious Ducal Dinning Room. Cryptson stands in the back of the group and listens.
Friesden tip-toes in nervously, sticking close to Khenal. On her is the dagger recently gifted to her in its sheath. Khenal gives Friesden a reassuring nuzzle as he walks in with her, unsure as to exactly what’s going on, but assuming it has something to do with the smuggling operation.
Kris files in after Friesden and Khenal, feeling a bit apprehensive about the whole thing. She knew it couldn’t be about anything cheerful, and tried to prepare herself for whatever it was Charity had to say. She was wearing the masterful adamantine chanfron gifted to her not long before, but hoped she wouldn’t need it. She finds an empty spot to stand and waits patiently for somepony to say something.
Starkey trots in after Kris, Otik following close behind him. Neither is in uniform, though Starkey’s familiar copper axe is strapped to his flank. Otik forgoes any armament, on account of the tiny purple filly curled up fast asleep between her wings.
Once all the ponies had moved into the office, Charity pulled from her desk a small tattered black book and puts on top of her desk, before sliding it to the other side. “Khenal, take this journal, turn to the three marked entries, and read them aloud for everypony.”
Khenal levitates the book to himself, looking a bit curious before opening it, looking angry as he sees who’s journal this is. “The journal of Couth Darkmane...” As he reads the entries, his expression softens slightly. He remembered Couth as a monster, an ambitious liar who cared only about himself. But these entries, while also proving Hugwax’ vileness, also showed that Couth was still just a pony. He still had hopes and dreams, and a sister he cared about. It hardly excuses him... but it’s a good reminder of the slippery slope that can lead ponies down the wrong path.
Kris’ eyes widen at the revelation, but she waits patiently for Khenal to finish. Nopony tried to hurt her family... even if Charity wasn’t really family until recently. Nopony.
Charity begins again, “This journal was allegedly the property of Couth Darkmane. It was given to me by Willow Emeraldstud, or as she has confessed to being actually named, Willow Darkmane...and, I believe it to be genuine.”
“But...But...What are we going to do?” stutters Friesden.
Charity looks sadly to Friesden, “That is why I brought you all here. You are all my dearest friends, and I need to ask you all...What do I, what do we, do next?”
Part of Kris wanted to go march up to Hugwax right then and there, demand an explanation and quite possibly introduce the monstrous parody of a mare to her mother’s hammer. But part of her knew better, the smarter part. Still, a scowl edges onto her face as she thinks about it. “This... this is outrageous...” she mutters. “We can’t let her get away with this! I... I... don’t know what to do...but if she dares to even try to lay a hoof on you again she’ll lay a hoof on nopony ever again...” They had to do something though... they couldn’t just sit by knowing that happened, and could happen again. Hugwax... she was a true monster. Kris would never again doubt what Khenal had told her about the mare.
Charity smiles softly at her daughter in law, it was pleasant to hear that she cared, and Charity could see so much of Falcata in Kris’s face as she spoke. “Willow. Has also offered her services to us in the event we wish to...retaliate. Starkey, my oldest friend, please, tell me what you think we should do.”
“I...” Starkey hesitates, then sighs. “I agree that this is outrageous, and it must not be allowed to stand, but I can see little we could do at the moment. I have something of an idea, but it would take time...”
Charity nods understandingly, “I see. Does anypony else have an idea? Otik? Khenal?”
Otik steps forward. “With three’r four good, well-trained ponies, an’ th’ right gear... I might have an idea.”
Khenal sets the book down and looks at his friends. “We lodge a formal complaint. Right in her skull. There is only one response to tyranny like hers.”
Charity nods, “Hugwax, is a menace to this country. Everypony would be better off with her removed from power...But, if we did take that step. Who would fill the void she would leave? She has no heirs, so the throne would probably fall to General Dostrob then? He’s just as bad as her.”
Khenal smiles at his friends, knowing exactly who he thinks should take over for Hugwax, and suspecting the others agree. “Who should fill the void, indeed? Who knows how to run a government that actually cares about the ponies she rules over?” After exchanging glances with the others, he looks square at Charity.
Kris considers it for a brief moment and immediately comes to the same conclusion. Yes, Charity was perfect for the position. She had already shown how much she cared about the ponies in Glitterglen, even before she risked her life by defying Hugwax. Yes, she’d stand behind Charity the whole way, and she nods firmly in agreement.
After a moment, Charity realizes that everypony, was looking expectantly at her. “N...No, you can’t be serious. You want me to take over as ruler? I...I can’t do that...I...I...”
Khenal smiles. “And why not? Nopony else has the experience to be a good and proper ruler. And, personally, you are one of the very few nobles I’ve known who is worthy of the title.”
Cryptson speaks from the back of the room. “Khenal is right Charity. In all the years we’ve been here you have never led Glitterglen wrong. You are a kind and generous leader, and as your power grew here, you never allowed it to corrupt you. No pony deserves to rule more than you do.”
Kris nods resolutely. “Absolutely.” She knew in the back of her mind that her mother would say the same thing if she was there right then.
Starkey clears his throat. “While I would agree that you are the best mare for the job, Miss Charity... the fact remains that General Dostrob is still Hugwax’s de facto successor, and a great many ponies will fall behind him, to include the army. Are we really prepared to fight a civil war?”
Friesden shivers a bit. “A...A war?”
Charity looks down at her desk, then back to her friends, “If...If I...if we were to try and put me on the throne. I don’t think we could hold the entire country, we just don’t have enough support outside the capital. But...just Glitterglen...If the Glitterglen military sides with us, then we might be able to hold a now independent Glitterglen. The city can feed itself entirely on our underground crops, and water from the caverns, we could hold against siege indefinitely.” Charity looks hopefully to Kris and then to Starkey and Otik. “Do, you think the military would side with us?”
“I know th’ lads in th’ militia all look up t’Starkey. They’d follow him anywhere.” Starkey cannot help but blush at this.
“We do,” Kris chimes in. She certainly did, anyway, and she had picked up on more than a bit of that sentiment since Starkey joined Charity’s guard instead of rejoining the militia. She couldn’t speak for all of them, of course, and thinking of Morul sent a mental shiver down her spine, but she stood by her words. “You don’t have to worry about us.”
Charity nods, she knew the soldiers all looked up to their old Commander, and she knew that the surviving members of the old Skyguard would follow Otik the Skywarden, even against the Crown. “Then...if we had their support, then we would have the Royal Guard well outnumbered. This could actually work...We have one other group of warriors that we need to worry about though. The Fortress Guard, and Captain Isos. They aren’t as well trained as the militia but are nearly as numerous. If they sided with her the fighting would get very bloody. Would Isos work with us? Would the Guard follow her if she did?”
Khenal thinks for a few moments before answering. “I... I don’t know. I think she’d side with us, and the guard with her, but she’s a hard mare to read.”
Charity nods again. “Well, we will have to talk to her then.” Charity looks off to the side for a moment. “Well, if we can get the guard and the militia, to fight with us then we should be able to take control of Glitterglen, and if the Sisters favor us, we might even be able to hold it...So, what is our next step? I’ve never lead a coup before,” she says with a nervous chuckle, “Does anypony have a suggestion? Perhaps get the soldiers and guards in one place so we can try and persuade them to our side?”
“Perhaps talk with them one at a time, subtlety? If they all decide they’d rather side with Hugwax, I would rather not have them all in one place.” Khenal suggests.
Charity sighs, “Khenal...If the majority of them side with Hugwax...then we’ve already lost. It won’t matter if they are all together or not. If the majority of them won’t help us...Then I don’t know what we can do.”
“Then we’ll have to act fast once you ask everypony, before Hugwax can react to the treason.”
Charity nods again, “Yes, I agree. But I think acting fast is our best option. Hugwax has been here for a year. I’m certain she has a wide net of informants set up by now. I fear if we act slowly then she will catch on before we are ready to strike.” Charity looks to each ponies face in turn. “I think our best bet is to be bold, and strike quickly. What do you all think?”
Khenal nods. “It’d be better if we could plan more, but I agree: Hugwax won’t give us that luxury.”
“I...um...I...I think Khenal’s right,” Friesden says.
“Wotever ye need me t’do, miss Charity.” Otik snaps a salute hard enough to wake little Zarya. Starkey takes the little filly and cradles her in his hooves before answering. “I will speak to the militia whenever you’re ready, ma’am.”
Charity looks to little Zarya and then stands up. “We need to move on this immediately. Gather your weapons and armor, and then we will gather the soldiers.” Charity moves around her desk to the front by her friends. “Tonight is New Year’s Eve. Let us make sure the new year begins without a tyrant on the throne.”
Khenal nods in grim determination. The thought of the coming battle made him nervous, but knowing he’d be with his friends... he had the feeling they could handle anything together. “I’ll go talk with Captain Isos after gathering my armor... and my spear.”
Kris takes a step toward the door with an equally serious expression. None of the hotheaded wrath that she allowed herself to feel before, or that her mother let consume her on occasion. This was purposeful determination. So, so, much was hanging in the balance... “I’ll go speak with the militia... I think they’ll still listen to me.”
Charity looks to Kris. “I have no doubt they will, but if they don’t just tell them Starkey and the Duchess sent you.”
With that, all the ponies present head out to prepare for what is to come. As the room empties only two ponies stay behind. The Duchess and her most beloved stallion.
After everypony else leaves Cryptson approaches Charity and hugs her tightly. "I love you, Charity. No matter what happens. I'll always love you."
Charity holds her husband back. "I...I know dear. I love you too."
The two ponies hold each other close and exchange what they both know could be their last kiss. It is relatively long and undoubtedly passionate, but they both know that time is of the essence. After an all too short moment they separate and Charity says, "Now...Go get your armor." Cryptson nods, and says "Of course milady, your wish is my command."
Post by: KingStrongbeard on June 04, 2012, 04:32:39 am
Charity sat waiting for Starkey to begin. She did not know how the crowd would react and was very anxious to see what would happen next.
Kris feels butterflies in her stomach as she watches him ascend to the podium and prepare to address them. This was it. This would be the first of many deciding points on their ultimate fate. More than she could comprehend was hanging in the balance.
Khenal stands with his friends, wearing a brave face but feeling very nervous inside. They were mere moments away from either starting a real coup or being arrested for treason. Friesden huddles under his wing, barely daring to poke her eyes out.
Starkey begins to speech the chattering crowd grows silent and listens.
“Ponies of Glitterglen.” Starkey began. "My friends. Nigh on eight years, you have served in the defense of Glitterglen. In that time, you have become the finest soldiers I have ever commanded, and the greatest ponies I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I can honestly say, that I couldn’t be prouder of any of you, if you were all my own sons and daughters.”
He pauses for a moment, steeling himself for what must come next.
”Each and every one of us took an oath to defend this city from whatever evil may rise up against it. This day, another enemy has risen to test our might. But this new enemy comes not from the shadows of the deep jungle, but from the gilded halls of the highest bastion in the land. An enemy that strikes at us not with steel and spell, but with gavel, and chains! This new foe is strong, mightier than any we have faced before. But we are mightier still! We have something that she will never have. We have each other. We stand united, and together we are so much more than we could be apart."
“Together our strength can conquer this foe. Together, we can end Hugwax’s reign of terror over the city, together we can put a noble worthy of the title, on the throne. And now I shall step aside and allow that noblest of ponies to speak to you all. The Duchess of Glitterglen, and the future Queen of the Failed Jungles, Charity Conventtulip.”
((I would like to offer an apology to the late Charlie Chaplin for the mutilation I have done to his masterful speech from The Great Dictator, that is to follow. Here is a link to the original, un-ponified version. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pK2WJd5bXFg ))
After being introduced by Starkey, Charity slowly and hesitantly moves to take her position in front of the gathered ponies. Clearly anxious. When she begins her speech the crowd is hushed once again.
“…
I’m sorry, but I don’t want to be a Q...Queen. That’s not my business. I don’t want to rule or conquer anypony. I should like to help everypony if possible- Pegasus, Alicorn, Earthpony, Unicorn...
We all want to help one another. We ponies are like that. We want to live by each others’ happiness, not by each other’s misery. We don’t want to hate and despise one another. In this world there is room for everypony. And the good earth is rich and can provide for everypony. The way of life can be free and beautiful, but we have lost the way.
Greed has poisoned pony’s souls; has barricaded the world with hate; has goose-stepped us into misery and bloodshed. We have developed wonderful magics, but we have shut ourselves in.
Magic that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness, hard and unkind.”
Charity begins to speak with more confidence and strength at this point.
“We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery ,we need equinity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and laughter. Without these qualities, life will be violent and all will be lost. Hearth's Warming has brought us closer together. The very nature of that day cries out for the goodness in ponies; cries out for universal brotherhood; for the unity of us all.
Even now there are millions of despairing stallions, mares, and foals, victims of a system that makes ponies torture and imprisons innocent ponies.
To those who can hear me, I say “Do not despair.”
The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed, the bitterness of ponies who fear the way of equine progress. The hate of ponies will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the ponies will return to the ponies. And so long as stallions die, liberty will never perish.”
Charity's voice becomes even more forceful, all sign of the pony that was hesitant to speak at all has passed.
“Soldiers! Don’t give yourselves to brutes, ponies who despise you and enslave you; who regiment your lives, tell you what to do, what to think and what to feel! Who drill you, diet you, treat you like cattle, use you as cannon fodder!
Don’t give yourselves to these unnatural ponies —machine ponies with machine minds and machine hearts! You are not machines! You are not cattle! You are stallions! You have a love of equinity in your hearts! You don’t hate!
Only the unloved hate; the unloved and the unnatural.
Soldiers! Don’t fight for slavery! Fight for liberty!
In the seventeenth chapter of The Book of Dawn and Dusk, it’s written “the kingdom of the Sisters is within Ponies”, not one pony nor a group of ponies, but in all ponies! In you! You, ponies, have the power, the power to create machines, the power to create happiness! You, ponies, have the power to make this life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure. Then in the name of democracy, let us use that power.
Let us all unite.
Let us fight for a new world, a decent world, that will give ponies a chance to work, that will give youth a future and old age a security. By the promise of these things, brutes, like Hugwax, have risen to power. But they lie! They do not fulfill their promise. They never will!
Dictators free themselves but they enslave the common ponies!
Now let us fight to fulfill that promise! Let us fight to free the world! To do away with class barriers! To do away with greed, with hate and intolerance!
Let us fight for a world of reason, a world where magic and friendship will lead to all ponies' happiness.
Soldiers, in the name of democracy, let us all unite!”
As Charity speaks the last line of her speech nearly shouting, the gathered ponies cheer and applaud her.
Kris joins in the excited cheering with fervor. She would stand behind Charity, her grandparents and everypony in Glitterglen against the worst pony to ever darken their world. If it cost her her life, she would give her all to bring Hugwax to justice, if it meant that nopony had to ever suffer under her again.
And yet... a nagging worry chipped away at the back of Kris’s mind. If they failed... what had she done to her family? Lorica? She banishes the thought with another cheer. They wouldn’t lose. Together, they could conquer anything. She would make this world safe for her daughter, if it was the last thing she did.
‘Absolute certainty of death, *small* chance of success... What are we waiting for?’ Hiero grinned. Now this was the chance to carve out some real glory. History will remember him -no all of them- all for this, for better or for worse.
Willow was daydreaming during the speech, was picking the perfect spot in her ideal little patch of the world she would call home with her husband Hiero where she would mount Hugwax’s head.
Friesden finally pokes her head out from Khenal’s wing. They...They were in it now. There was no running away now. Even though she just wanted to go home, to hug her three little foals and tell them no harm would come to them...she couldn’t anymore. Charity had led them safely this far...Friesden would just have to trust that she could lead them through this too.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on June 18, 2012, 09:45:33 pm
Charity is standing at the back, her adamantine blade floating just within reach. Visibly, glistening under her indigo robe was a shining steel peytral, over a chain shirt, with steel boots on her hooves.
Kris was standing near the middle of the group, having subconsciously maneuvered herself into a relatively safe position. She didn’t want to admit, even to herself, that she was actually quite scared. She was afraid of what this revolution would ultimately bring, but for now, she was afraid of what fighting at least four of the most skilled warriors in the principality would mean. She adjusts the adamantine chanfron on her head with her magic and tightens up the distance between herself and Charity and Friesden. When the fighting started, she’d do whatever she could to intercept anything heading for the two of them. The rest of them... hopefully they could handle this.
Khenal stands in front of the door, wearing his armor and levitating his spear. It almost felt sureal to be standing here, in open defiance of Hugwax. He had worked with her, all those years ago... before the asylum went down. He gives a determined nod to nopony in particular. With his friends, he had no doubt they could defeat her. Friesden hangs just behind him.
Otik stands just to the side of the door. She looks down the row of assembled ponies, meeting each pair of eyes. “Okay... everypony ready?” Each of them nods silently. “Alright... this’s it...” With that, she twirls around on a forehoof, bringing both hindhooves around to slam into the door.
The door gives way to a long narrow hallway paved with golden bricks, two decorative doors are placed in the sides. The left one, the ponies are aware leads to the Royal Dining Room and Bed Chambers, the right, to a tomb fit for a monarch set aside in the event of her ‘unfortunate’ death. At the end of the hall it opened to a larger room 10 yards wide and 15 yards deep, with smooth granite floors and a golden path leading up to the golden throne. Which was flanked by two grandiose statues of electrum.
On the throne sits the enraged blueblood, word having somehow already reached her of the treachery. She was surrounded by her four most loyal minions, all dressed, in very fine steel, and carrying weapons of purest silver. Captain Demora cracks her vile whip as our heroes approach. Tor and Pound the Pegasi Hammerers stand side by side with Demora at the front. While Thrash, the earthpony mare carrying an oversized maul, stands by the Princess.
Demora cracks her whip again. “You are a greedy old whore Charity, I knew I should have killed you from the moment I set eyes upon you! And the rest of you! Have you no loyalty? No decency? You would turn so easily against your betters? Fine, if death is your wish, I shall provide it.” shouts the Royal Guard Captain.
Hugwax rises her uncontrolled rage appears to melt away, “Silence Demora!” she shouts, the captain complying immediately and holding position.
Hugwax looks to the gathered ponies, “My dear Charity, I had thought you better than this. I never would have thought you of all ponies would let your ambition take you this far. I wonder what treacherous lies you could have spun to turn so many ponies against me like this. But we all know how fearful she is of other’s power. Tell me, corporal Starkey, has not the dear Duchess always desired power here? Is that not why she stripped you of your Command, and placed another pony in charge of the army you helped to build? Did she not fear you wresting control of the city from her greedy hooves?”
“If that were true,” Starkey begins, “Why put me in the one position where it would be easiest to remove her? No, I took my position willingly, and gladly.”
She looks to Otik, “And you Skywarden. Did she not replace you with a drunken buffoon which she could simply buy the loyalty off so cheaply? Is she really the pony you wish to so blindly place your loyalty with?”
“Miss Charity chose her stallion. She knows wot’ she’s doin’. Who’m I t’question her judgement?”
The Princess faces Kris, “And you. Ah, and the little filly of Falcata. It was quite impressive how Charity was so able to buy the loyalty of your mother. A weak mare with nothing to live for, and Charity saw that and used it. Giving her gifts and helping her so much, just so that she would last long enough to die for her and not on her own. And now she is doing the same to you. It is truly a tragedy that you can’t see that.”
The shaking Kris felt inside at the realization of what they were doing, what they were really doing, disappears to be replaced with righteous vexation. Her first instinct was to shout something very rude back at Hugwax, but she instead settles for an indignant, “Ha!” She lowers her mother’s hammer and scowls a bit at Hugwax. “What’s tragic is that you think instilling fear and buying ponies out is the only way to inspire loyalty!”
Hugwax turns to Friesden, “And you, little one. You she has tricked most of all. Do you truly believe her to be your friend? Ha! Did you know she desired to have your pretty little head removed from your shoulders? It’s true. And she would have done it too, if not for your loving little stallion. She spared your life only because she could not bare to watch her beloved Khenal mourn you, or worse, have him blame her for your death. You live because she needs him, because she desires him, and for no other reason.”
“No! Stop that! You’re lying!” Friesden says, tears beginning to well up in her eyes.
Hugwax smiles a devilish smile. “Oh, but I don’t lie,” she says derisively, “Everything I say I got from this.” And with that she pulls a small stack of notebooks bound together from her robe and tosses them before the group. The cover of the top reads, Charity’s Journal, in the Duchess’s hoofwriting.
Charity flinches, she knew that many of the things the Princess said were either partially true, or easily construed as such. She was worried for just a moment, that they might turn on her, but her doubt passes quickly like water off a duck’s back, as her faith in her friends was such that she was sure they would see through the Princess’s half truths.
Friesden turns from the obvious trick of the Princess, and buries her head in Khenal’s wing.
“And last but certainly not least, that brings us to you, Captain Khenal.” smiles the Princess, “Was it so long ago my friend that we were on the same side? What right have you, a pony whose past is stained with the blood of so many, whose very soul is blackened with so much sin, what right have you to judge me? I have worked tirelessly for this nation, as did you once, but you would throw all that away now, to serve some usurper? Join me and take your place at my side again, and you can help the masses once more Khenal.”
“Help the masses? Don’t make me laugh, you tyrant. You care for nopony but yourself, and I am ashamed it took the deaths of so many for me to see that.” He leans his spear against his shoulder, remembering that Demora is a null. The last thing he needs is his magic cutting out while levitating his weapon.
“It isn’t too late, any of you.” continues Hugwax, “Turn from this path now, and I will not only spare your lives, but you will be rewarded beyond your wildest dreams.”
Kris was no foal and transfers the hammer to her mouth to draw her shield with her magic. She knew that backing down now would only get her tortured mercilessly before her death, and would surely mean the death of her friends and family too. No, she wasn’t turning away now. Her eyes dart from pony to pony as she watches for the inevitable start of the fight. Any moment one of her guards could use the opportunity for a surprise attack.
Starkey steps forward. “Don’t be a fool, Hugwax. The militia, the guard, all are loyal to us. you are in no position to bargain.” He turns to face Demora. “But I would extend the same offer to all of you. Hugwax dies this day, there is no avoiding that. But none of you have to die with her. Turn away, lay down your arms or take them up at our side, either way you will be spared.”
Demora glares at the traitors, “We would never betray her majesty. We owe our lives to her, and we will die to defend her.” The other three ponies speak, “Aye captain, we are with you.” in unison.
Kris clenches her jaw around the hilt of her mother’s hammer and strengthens her magical grip on her shield. She could feel her heart beating faster and faster in her chest and a cold sweat forming on her brow. This was it... any moment now. She nervously and without thought slides back a step, trying to place some distance between her and Demora. She had never forgotten the whips...
Demora speaks through gritted teeth, “Princess?”
“Kill them.” replies Hugwax, sounding almost disinterested.
Without another second passing, the deadly end of Demora’s whip was flying as fast as sound toward Khenal’s face, a cracking sound echoing through the silent hall.
’Too fast!’ Khenal drops to the floor, though the whip still takes the tip off of one of his ears. He rolls to the side, taking his spear in his mouth and glaring at Demora.
As if on cue the cracking sound sends Tor and Pound flying into the air up and over toward their targets.
In an instant, the two pegasi are in the air. Otik’s crossbow practically leaps from her back and into her hooves. She propels herself backwards, giving herself room to line up her shot. Starkey, however, launches himself straight towards the oncoming guards, his axe at the ready.
The twin pegasi wielding warhammers leap into the air in unison and move to meet their respective foes. Tor spins in the air to throw off Otik’s aim and rears back to take a swing with his hammer. Pound instead darts to the side as Starkey nears and takes a cautious swing at the stallion’s midsection with his own weapon.
Seeing the hit coming, Starkey pivots out of the way and darts in for a swing of his own. Otik does her best to match Tor’s movements, trying to line up a telling shot.
Kris sees the last pony standing near Hugwax and realizes it was up to her to face the mare wielding a hammer three times the size of her own. If there was anything she had learned from Adamant or his father, it was that an earth pony could be monstrously strong, and she had no doubt that this mare was more than strong enough to wield that maul to its fullest effect. She circles to place herself between Thrash and Charity and Friesden, unsure if she should make the first move or wait for somepony to attack one of them.
Charity looks to Kris. “Kris, try and force Thrash away from Hugwax and I will go for the tyrant.”
Kris nods at the order and moves to obey. She continued to make an attempt to keep herself between Thrash and the two mares, and to keep any eye on Charity in case Hugwax turned out to be a better fighter than she looked. Thrash heard the order too and glowers at Kris before stepping forward and readying her massive hammer.
Tor continues to perform aerobatics to confuse Otik’s aim as he draws closer. A moment more and he’d be in range to smash the weapon from her grip, and then she’d be his. Pound lets out a startled gasp as Starkey’s axe grazes his wing. True to his reputation, this Starkey was going to be a challenge. His first swing goes wide as he repositions himself and he returns to the ground. Might be best to keep this fight on the ground for now.
Otik can see Tor drawing closer to her with each swoop and turn. He’ll be on her in only a few moments. Though, if she can’t hit him at range...
She takes the shot almost half-heartedly, and moves to reach for another bolt.
Starkey watches Pound drop back to the floor, but does not follow. He remains in the air, just out of his opponent’s reach, before darting in quickly to deliver another blow.
Demora sneers at Khenal around her whip. “Blood already? And here I thought the Taciturn Sorcerer might be a challenge!” She swings it around again at him, almost looking bored now. Khenal watches her close and angles his spear to let the whip curl around the shaft, hoping to gain an advantage and maybe pull it from her grip.
Otik’s shot spangs off of Tor’s peytral as his continued whirling about turns it into a glancing blow. He chuckles and takes the swing at her crossbow. This mare wasn’t going to be a challenge at all!
Pound circles beneath Starkey and evaluates his options. He wasn’t sure he could take Starkey alone, but maybe he could distract him long enough for somepony to finish off one of his friends, then they could gang up on him. He takes in another sharp breath as Starkey’s axe bites into his armor just ahead of his wing, and he ripostes with a flash of his hammer at whatever part of Starkey presented itself.
Otik grins as Tor takes the bait. She pivots her whole body, swinging the crossbow back behind her while she slashes, then stabs forward at his face with the bolt in her other hoof.
Pound’s swing finds its mark on Starkey’s hindleg, sending him twirling through the air before falling to the floor. He stands with a little difficulty, favoring the stricken leg, but recovers just in time to deflect another wicked strike from the massive hammer.
Kris still wasn't sure if she should make the first move or wait for Thrash to take a swing, but she didn't have time to stand there and just think while a battle raged around her. She takes one look back to Charity and Friesden to make sure they were still okay before readying her weapon to strike first. Much to her surprise she finds the maul already swinging in her direction and in a panic she leaps back, feeling the wind tear past her face.
As Thrash moved to engage Kris, Charity cautiously moves around the fighting toward Hugwax, her knife ready to cut the smile from the royal's smug face. Hugwax likewise faces Charity as if she had been expecting it.
Demora’s eyes sparkle in vicious delight, expertly uncoiling her whip form Khenal’s spear as he tries to close and giving him a good lash to a wing, simple luck keeping it from snapping. Khenal grunts in pain around his spear as Demora openly laughs at him. “Hah! You actually thought I’d fall for that trick?!”
Tor’s eyes go wide as he realizes his mistake a second too late, and he turns his head away instinctively. Otik’s bolt slashes across his throat, opening a shallow cut through split mail links. The pegasus nearly falls from the sky in his panic, but as he realizes it wasn’t a fatal cut, rage forms on his face. “Buck you!” he shouts as he feints a strike to her face.
Pound feels a bit of cockiness well up inside him as he manages to land the blow. “Eat this!” he taunts as he brings his hammer down again, leaving an unpleasant marring of the previously beautiful flooring as Starkey deflects his hammer aside. This pony was fast... he needed to check himself. Fight defensively... he leaps back into the air and gains as much altitude as he can in preparation for a dive.
“Sorry hun, I cannae be doin’ that anymore. Got married, y’see.” Otik flips backwards in the air to dodge the strike.
Starkey Watches Tor ascend, moving with him. He waits for the pegasus to reach the peak of his flight and begin his plunge, before launching himself up towards him, prepared to meet him in the middle.
With her heart now thundering in her chest, Kris raises her shield and evaluates the enormous mare intent on killing her. She sees an opening just as Thrash readies her maul again and throws her magical might into her shield, angling it into a crushing bash to the face. Thrash turns away instinctively, but the motion is completely unnecessary as Kris' shield harmlessly drops to the ground as it nears her. It rolls on its edge for some distance before clattering to the ground.
Charity charges Hugwax and telekinetically stabs forward with her knife. Hugwax surprised her, avoiding the blow by leaping to the side with her wings at a speed which surprised Charity. Hugwax then strikes Charity in the horn with her left forehoof, causing Charity to lose her magical grip on her knife, causing it to clatter to the floor.
Khenal slowly strafes around Demora as she watches him, her whip whirling over her head. He’d need to figure out a way to close the distance with her, or he’d never win. He couldn’t rely on his magic to trick her, either. “Come on, then!” Demora taunts him. “Is this a fight or a dance?” She punctuates her taunt with another lightning fast snap of her whip, catching Khenal square in the sternum. If not for the adamantine armor spreading the blow out over his body, he’d probably be dead from that.
Tor swears under his breath as Otik doesn’t take the bait of his feint and lunges forward, hoping to catch her in a tackle and wrestle her to the ground. He wasn’t going to let her get any distance on him, not as long as that crossbow was still hers.
Pound desperately searches his mind for something to do as Starkey rapidly approaches him. A head on fight would probably go poorly for him. There wasn’t much time to think, and he settles on a last moment dart to the side and swing with his hammer at Starkey’s chest. Maybe if he put all of his might and momentum into it, he’d get past any attempted parry.
Otik stops dead in the air as Tor manages to seize her by the hindquarters. “Oi, no means no!” She alternates between swinging at him with her crossbow and trying to reload it.
Starkey’s axe comes up to take the blow, but the hammer just powers on through and slams into his chest. The two stallions are carried into the floor by the heavy weapon.
Thrash takes advantage of Kris' momentary bafflement and whips the maul around again. The surface of the weapon clips her horn this time, snapping her head to the side while dissipating most of the impact. Fear surges through Kris again as the true depth of the situation hits her. Thrash was many times her strength and hellaciously fast. Worse still, Kris realizes that the mare is a magical null. Her magic will not help her at all.
Again she sees an opening as the maul is readied and lashes out with the hammer in her mouth. Kris feels a moment of elation as the weapon hits its mark solidly against the earth pony mare's shoulder, but Thrash doesn't so much as flinch as her thick steel armor and massive body absorb the blow. An instant later the maul is bearing down upon her again, and in a flash she brings her mother's hammer up to parry. She is again shocked to feel the maul halt against her parry when it should have battered her feeble attempt aside. Then she realizes her mistake.
Thrash brings the pommel of her maul up beneath the parry and slams it into Kris' cheek. Kris staggers back, but resists the urge to drop the weapon in her mouth and clutch at the explosion of pain in her face. Moments later adrenaline kicks in and the pain fades enough for her to regain concentration. Just in time to see the maul swinging her direction again. She turns her face away and jumps aside to avoid the worst possible outcome, but the maul catches her squarely on the chest and throws her from her hooves.
Charity slams herself into Hugwax, the two noble ponies tumbling around, raining blows onto each other, Charity barely doing better due to her training and her armor.
Tor sneers at Otik as he uses all of his strength to drag her downward. “As if I’d want you!” he retorts before taking a face full of crossbow. He cries out in pain and rage before rolling her beneath himself and kicking with every ounce of might in his body. He prods at his stinging nose and scowls at the blood smeared on his boot. “I’ll kill you for that!”
Pound feels another cocky grin edge onto his face as he succeeds in downing Starkey. The blow had a lot of power behind it, maybe he’d managed to knock the wind out of him if not more. He fights to free himself from the knot on the floor and rotates his hammer to present the spike on the back. He just had to line up a shot to Starkey’s throat, or if that wasn’t presenting itself maybe to the hip joint of his armor. He’d bleed out quite fast from either.
With Tor suitably preoccupied with his injuries, Otik takes the opportunity to violently buck him off and backpedals, trying to put enough distance between them to load and line up a shot.
As Pound disentangles himself, Starkey manages to roll away. He takes up a defensive posture, slowly circling, but he realizes that even his fine adamantine mail would have trouble stopping the wickedly sharp point of Pound’s hammer.
The force of the whip-blow sends Khenal back a few steps as he gasps for air, Demora laughing riotously at him. ‘Alright, think Khenal! You don’t have your magic, but you still have wings and your size.’ He rears back to his hind legs, taking the spear from his mouth to hold it in his forelegs. It looked a bit awkward, but he seemed to have better control of the spear like this.
Demora, however, doesn’t look impressed. “Oh, look who’s trying to get all fancy. You’re doomed, you stupid stallion! Accept it, and maybe I’ll kill you quick!” She whips at him again, but he’s able to parry it to the side, letting it wrap around his spear and quickly unwrap with Demora’s expert control of the weapon.
Kris lands a short distance away and slides along the ground before coming to a halt near the wall. Pain wracks her every movement as she desperately stumbles back to her hooves. Even every breath she took sent stabbing pain through her chest, but she couldn't just lay there. She had to fight... she had to do something or she was going to die. Her first instinct was to cast her pain control spell, but even before she makes the motions she remembers it would be futile. Instead, she readies her mother's hammer again and makes a lunge at Thrash.
Tor immediately rallies and catches himself in midair before correcting course and diving for Otik again. He was not going to let her reload at this range. Flapping his wings as fast as he could, he settles for trying to beat her out with raw strength and speed. This time as he gets close, he makes sure to keep his hammer ready to parry any unexpected swings of that crossbow.
Pound rotates his hammer back to present the striking surface and begins circling with Starkey. A cold sweat begins to form on his brow as he watches the living legend in front of him evaluate him. One wrong move and he’d be a dead pony. After a moment more of that, he catches sight of the two pegasi dueling in the air and realizes that was his only option. He feints a swing at Starkey and darts into the air, making a straight line to assist his brother and hopefully gain the advantage over Otik.
Otik tries a few ineffective swings of her crossbow, searching for an opening in his defenses. suddenly, she is distracted by movement in the corner of her eye. She quickly brings her crossbow up as Pound swoops up towards her.
Starkey lowers his guard as he sees Pound’s apparent retreat, but quickly readies himself again as he sees the stallion’s new target: Otik. He takes wing and bolts towards them as fast as his wings will carry him.
Thrash effortlessly sidesteps the blow with an indignant snort and bucks Kris as she passes by. The strike nearly throws her from her hooves again, but she rallies and brings her mother's hammer down in a crushing blow to Thrash's back. The hammer slams into her crupper with a deafening ring, and for once the mare snarls in pain. “I'll show you,” she shouts as she repeats the motion.
Kris tries to dive aside, but the pain in her chest had grown to the point she could no longer ignore it, and she instead staggers forward awkwardly. Far enough to avoid taking the blow directly in the back, but it still lands with devastating effect on her crupper. She lets out a pained shriek as the blow slams her to the ground, and she freezes in place, terrified to move. She knew she was hurt... probably badly... but her mind told her to lay still to avoid making it worse. Something felt wrong... Suddenly she notices that she can taste blood in her mouth, and the stabbing in her chest is slowly augmented by an intense burning.
“I hope this works...” Khenal says to himself as he takes off, circling the room to build up speed. Demora simply sneers at him again. “Finally remembered you had wings? Fat lot of good they’ll do you! I’m going to enjoy killing you!”
Khenal ignores her, too concerned with ending their fight quickly so he can try to help his friends. Hugwax’ retinue was proving to be more trouble than they expected. At least Friesden was being ignored... for now. He shakes the grisly thought from his mind as he turns and dives towards Demora. She gives him an evil grin as he closes. “Too slow, chicken-horse!” she shouts as she lashes at him. At the same time, Khenal does something she wasn’t expecting: he hurls his spear at her. Her whip hits him in the helmet, and she strikes again, fast as lightning to his wing, snapping it with a loud crack! The second attack gives her too little time to fully dodge the spear, though, and it grazes her cheek, leaving a small streak of crimson.
With Otik’s attention taken up by his brother, Tor lunges at her and finally manages to latch onto her after a brief struggle. His first course of action is to slam the pommel of his hammer into her cheek, like she so kindly did to his nose with her crossbow. “Take that!” he shouts, more than a bit satisfied to get some revenge.
Pound joins the two and immediately rams his hammer into the flexible armor on her abdomen. They had to get her out of the fight immediately if they were going to have any hope of ganging up on and defeating Starkey.
Otik folds under the twins’ assault, Tor’s blow knocking the adamantine chanfron from her head. She barely has time to recover before Pound’s hammer slams into her belly, knocking the wind from her. She drops to the floor, losing her grip on her crossbow.
“No!”
Without pause, Starkey changes course, diving towards his stricken lover. He catches Otik mere feet above the stone tiles, gently lowering her to the floor. “Can you stand?”
Otik rolls over and tries to get to her hooves, but fails. she spits out a mouthful of blood. “I... I t-think I’m out o’ this fight, luv...”
Khenal fares far worse from the attacks he suffered, and crashes in a heap. His armor had saved him again, though it may have simply delayed the inevitable now. Demora gives an evil chuckle as she looks at the fallen alicorn, still in a daze from the whip-strike to the head and the crash. “Pathetic! And now you don’t even have your precious spear! Hmm... speaking of things precious to you...” She glances at Friesden, huddled in the corner and shivering.
Charity, managing to gain the upper hand, takes the princess to the ground. Hugwax laying on the floor underneath Charity, both mares heavily bruised, Charity looks to her side and pulls her knife back to her with her magic. Levitating the blade over the royal mare's face, she speaks, "And now Hugwax, It is over."
Kris realizes then that she couldn't possibly get to her hooves in time to avoid the next blow from the maul, and it would surely kill her. Even still she reaches out and tries to pull herself out of the way, but she knew she was doomed. She was going to die...
She closes her eyes and braces for the impact that would end her life.
Tor and Pound grin at each other, satisfied that the battle was surely theirs now. They both raise their weapons and begin a slow descent toward Starkey and Otik. One swing and this would be over...
Charity's knife floats upward in preparation of the final blow when suddenly, Charity hears a mare's voice screaming with rage.
Demora slowly walks towards Friesden, an evil gleam in her eyes. She lashes the wall just above Friesden, tearing a gouge in the stone with her silver whip to gain Friesden’s attention. Friesden quivers in her horseshoes, turning her head down. Demora grins and lashes the floor just before Friesden’s hooves. “I want those pretty eyes up here!”
“O-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-okay,” stammers Friesden, lifting her head to face Demora, fear on her face. Demora leans in close, putting away her whip a moment to lick Friesden’s nose. “Anypony ever tell you you’re beautiful when you’re terrified?”
Friesden flinches at the licking, and stammers out “N-n-n-n-n-n-n-n-n-no, nopo-o-o-o-o-o-ony ever ha-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-as. P-p-p-p-p-p-please...D-d-d-d-d-d-d-don’t k-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-kill Khenal...Please?”
Kris looks up with an air of curiosity when she isn’t killed, just in time to see Thrash heading for Charity. She tries to scream for Charity to avoid the incoming blow, but her cries only came out as a choked gasp.
Charity's magic cuts out, her knife falling blade first into the stone floor where it sticks in the smoothed granite. Turning she sees Thrash about to strike her with her enormous maul. Charity tries to get out of the way, but takes a strong blow to her polished steel peytral, and she is sent spinning backwards several feet and lands with a thud. Charity tries to stand but falls again, coughing up blood.
Hugwax stands up. “Yes, Duchess it is over. Thrash, kill the pig.”
Khenal slowly recovers from the daze of crashing, finally taking in how his friends are doing: Poorly. Kris looks terrified to move, and with that massive dent in the armor near the base of her tail, he didn’t blame her. Charity had Hugwax grinning evilly at her as a large earthpony mare hefted a massive maul to crush her. Otik struggling to stand, as Starkey does his best to keep the terrible twins off of her. And Friesden, his Only Light... had that monster Demora looming over her.
All his friends, and the love of his life... all in mortal danger! He tries to stand, but his legs seem like they’re made of jelly. He can’t lose them! Kris, always able to lighten the mood. Charity, so giving and thoughtful. Friesden, his Only Light and the kindest pony to ever grace Equestria. Starkey, so staunchly honest. Otik, loyal and true. He clenches his eyes shut as he tries to find his magic, grasping at straws for anything to save his friends.
‘Oh Sisters please! Not my Friends! Not Friesden! Take me instead! Just do something to help them!’ Time seems to slow as he feels the soft and familiar warmth of his magic... and something more as well. He opens his eyes, seeing death-blows slowly descending on his friends. Instead of fear, though, he feels strength from the sight of the ponies important to him.
“No.” His voice seems to reverberate through the hall as his horn flares to life, roughly shoving Hugwax and her cronies back towards the throne and levitating his spear back to him. He stands, bolstered by the simple presence of his friends as they start to gather themselves, and joins them.
Kris looks around in utter confusion as their foes are cast about like dolls. She has no idea what is going on, but she wasn’t about to let the sudden reprieve go to waste. Khenal was standing nearby, cloaked in magical might so strong she could feel it, and all through the magical null fields cast off by Demora and Thrash. With a pained cry she forces herself to her hooves, feeling very weak in her rear legs. Nevertheless, she soldiers on and joins Khenal at his side, bathed in the inviting warmth of his magic. Her mouth, chest and back together were agonizing, but she stands next to him with a determined glower on her face and her mother’s hammer gripped in her mouth. She was not going to give up.
Wait... was this Khenal’s magic? It was so strong... permeating every bit of her body. No, this wasn’t Khenal... not alone. It was something more, something far greater than any magic she had ever felt in her life. She could feel the connection to her friends and family. It was almost overwhelming, so strong and pure that she felt the magical emptiness from Demora and Thrash vanish. Finally, she could cast the spell she so desperately needed. A blinding flash of gold from her horn later and the pain in her friends and her body vanishes, along with the superficial wounds, though the weakness in her legs remains. But there was no time to think about that, there was a fight to finish.
Friesden squeaks in shock as the earth pony mare disappears, and she looks around to see Khenal standing again, his magic returned. In an instant, she scrambles up and runs over to him, hugging him tight in her fear.
With the flash of gold light from Kris’s magic, all Charity’s pain melted away. Finally able to force herself to stand she quickly moves over to stand beside her friends.
As brilliant golden light envelops Otik’s body, she can feel the strength return to her limbs. Starkey pulls her to her hooves, and the two of them join their friends beneath the glow of Khenal’s magic.
Hugwax and her guard begin to stand, Thrash looks utterly confused, while Demora is smoldering with rage. “How! How is this possible! No magic can move me! What trickery is this!” she shouts at Khenal.
Khenal replies in the same voice, clearly heard as the very air around them all seems to speak. “This is no mere magic... this is Magic! No single pony can wield this, for it is the very bonds of companionship that fuel it!”
This Magic was unlike anything Khenal had ever felt before. It felt like the very reins of creation were in his grip. No, not his grip. Well, not his alone. He could feel his friends, each guiding and shaping Magic in their own way. They provided the power, and trusted him enough to shape it for them.
Kris glowers at Hugwax and her guards as the mysterious power flows through her. She feels as if she was on the verge of something enormous, but something not quite within her power to control directly. That... she felt Khenal was the one who held the final piece of the puzzle, and she focuses on the intangible and barely comprehensible power, pushing it, molding it, wishing... wishing as if she knew what she was doing. She wanted Hugwax and her guards gone. She didn’t care how, she just wanted this fight over and for Hugwax to lose! If she could influence that, she was doing everything she could imagine to do so!
Charity feels the immense power of this Magic flowing through her, through all her friends. She wasn’t sure what it was, but suspected it was related to the virtues they had each had magically inscribed upon their belongings. The magic in the air was surely powerful enough to turn this fight around. She focused on what she desired, to give the gift of freedom to the ponies of Glitterglen, by ridding the world of all the ponies who threatened them. As she did this she felt the energy begin to coalesce into something more controlled and less chaotic.
Starkey feels... something coursing through his body. Something powerful. Is this what magic feels like? He turns to look up at Khenal, at the brilliant energies flowing from his horn.
No... this is what Magic feels like. He laughs aloud, seeing the Sisters’ plan finally laid out. The marks on their weapons... the Elements of Harmony... the six of them had been chosen to bear Their greatest weapons. Their victory this day was the Sister’s will, and Starkey threw every fiber of his being into ensuring that it came to pass.
Friesden feels innervated as the Magic courses through her, still refusing to let go of Khenal. Whatever it was, she hadn’t a clue, but she just knew that she didn’t want it to stop, almost luxuriating in the feeling. Even when the foals were born, she hadn’t felt so happy. She just wanted whatever it was to keep on going, for as long as it could. She felt safe, protected, almost untouchable with Khenal beside her. She never, ever, wanted to be apart from him, more than ever before.
Otik felt... strong. Stronger than she ever had before. She could feel the power radiating from Khenal’s horn permeate every inch of her body. With this kind of power, she felt like she could do anything. And right now, there was nothing she wanted more than to rid the world of the hateful princess Hugwax, and see the crown rest in its rightful place - on Miss Charity’s brow.
Hugwax and her Royal Guard get onto their hooves, Thrash and Demora in the front with the pegasi twins on either side of the Princess. Demora shouts at Khenal, “I don’t know what sort of tricks you are trying to pull, but you and your ‘friends’ can not win. You are out of your depth!”
“We have each other, Demora. We cannot fail.” Khenal closes his eyes, focussing on the desires of his friends as they help shape the Magic, refining and stabilizing the power. Freedom, their foes gone, safety, victory, Charity as princess. There was nothing else to do with the energy but release it. The energy starts to coalesce around Khenal and his friends, each radiating a different color. They each begin to slowly levitate, colorful power coursing through their beings.
“We have been gifted with the Elements of Harmony, greatest weapons of the Sisters. May they have mercy on you all, for we shall not.” The energies swirl together around the six, gathering into a coherent beam of prismatic might before blasting Princess Hugwax and her retinue. The raw power obscures them from view for a moment before the friends drop back to the ground, exhausted and spent from the immense power they all channeled.
Post by: KingStrongbeard on June 18, 2012, 09:46:14 pm
A few moments after the blast, Charity begins to pull herself to her hooves, she looks around and sees her other friends starting to come to as well. She could stand but barely, she felt like whatever that Magic was it had taken a lot out of her. She approaches the golden throne cautiously, and examines the 5 piles of ash laying on the ground before the throne. She turns outward from the throne, and begins to cast a spell, though her heads pounds in protest as she does so, “Ponies of Glitterglen” her voice rings loudly throughout the hall her magic making sure it echoes throughout the whole of Glitterglen, “This is your...This is Charity Conventtulip, we have taken the throne room. The Princess is dead. We are free at last my friends. We are all free.” Charity’s spell ends, she feels faint, she stumbles for a moment and catches herself, she feels the need to sit down, the only chair to be found is the golden throne she collapses into it her head spinning.
Khenal groans and slowly finds his hooves, helping Friesden stand as well. His jaw drops as he
sees just what they had all wrought together. He sees Charity stumble and collapse onto the throne, exhausted after alerting the fort of the good news. His horn glows softly as he levitates the tiara from the pile of dust that was Hugwax and carefully places it atop Charity’s brow.
Friesden looked around as she was helped up. Where were the ponies? The significance of the dust soon became apparent, and she turned away from the sight, and threw up, gagging. No sooner had she emptied her stomach onto the floor than her legs wobbled and gave way, refusing to support her weight.
Charity looks up at Khenal, her mind beginning to clear again. Recognizing the significance of the action Khenal had just done she looks down at the ashes and then back up and smiles at him.
Khenal lays by Friesden and covers her in a wing, then smiles back at Charity as his horn glows brighter, mimicking her voice spell. “Ponies of Glitterglen, this is Khenal. Princess Hugwax is no more. May Princess Charity Coventtulips reign with wisdom and prosperity!” With that, he bows low to his friend on the throne. There was no doubt in his mind that Charity would make a fine ruler.
Kris finally comes to and takes in the enormity of what had just occurred. She sees the piles of remains, and her mother in law sitting atop the throne. Nopony deserved the honor more, and she too joined Khenal in bowing before her. She knew how much Charity disliked it when her mother had done so, but for this occasion, nothing less would suffice. It was all she could do to stay upright with the weakness in her legs, but for this, she gave everything she had. They were finally free.
Charity looks out at all her friends bowing before her, Khenal’s words echo in her mind, “Princess Charity...” That title did not yet sound right for her as she thought it, but she was sure, with her friends at her side, together they could do anything.
THE END
Post by: Khenal on June 21, 2012, 09:35:53 pm
"How are you feeling, Friesden?"
Post by: Dsarker on June 21, 2012, 09:39:44 pm
"S-s-she...All s-s-s-she wanted...was m-m-m-m-me!"
Post by: Khenal on June 21, 2012, 09:48:41 pm
Post by: Dsarker on June 21, 2012, 09:50:14 pm
Post by: Khenal on June 22, 2012, 12:50:31 am
Post by: Dsarker on June 22, 2012, 12:52:19 am
Post by: Khenal on June 22, 2012, 12:55:06 am
Post by: Dsarker on June 22, 2012, 12:56:57 am
Post by: Khenal on June 22, 2012, 01:04:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on June 22, 2012, 01:06:03 am
Post by: Khenal on June 22, 2012, 01:09:59 am
Post by: Dsarker on June 22, 2012, 01:14:14 am
Post by: Khenal on June 22, 2012, 01:23:22 am
Post by: Dsarker on June 22, 2012, 01:26:34 am
((Fade to black.))
Post by: Telgin on June 24, 2012, 02:12:03 am
Well... it's done. Hugwax and her guards are dead. Glitterglen is free.
We faced her yesterday. All of the militia rallied together and secured Glitterglen while my friends and I faced her in her throne room. Charity, Khenal, Friesden, grandpa Starkey and grandma Otik, and myself, against Hugwax, Demora, Pound, Tor and Thrash. The fight was more intense than I could have ever imagined, which when you consider that Hugwax was protecting herself with the best soldiers she could find, made sense. I was hopelessly outclassed.
In the end, we were all pretty soundly beaten, aside from grandpa Starkey, but even he couldn't take them all himself. I thought we were all going to die for certain, having failed to free Glitterglen from Hugwax. The consequences would surely have been dire for anypony left in the city... I shudder to think what would have happened if Hugwax had survived to unleash her wrath.
But, thank the sisters, a miracle was provided for us. In that last moment, when everything looked hopeless, the purpose of the "titles" granted to us was revealed. It had to be their plan all along. It has to be why grandpa Starkey and grandma Otik were returned to us. In that last moment, it was revealed that Khenal too was favored by the sisters. Together, we were the Elements of Harmony, and using their ultimate power we destroyed Hugwax and her guards.
It was indescribable. The power was so incredible... it was as if we could do anything, and we did what was needed at that moment. We destroyed the most evil pony I have ever had the displeasure to know, and the world is far better for it. After it was over... I admit it took some time for the consequences of what had just happened to settle in my mind. Although she surely deserved what happened to her, it was the first time I've actually helped kill a normal pony. I guess it's not right to think of her as any different from the diomedians who besiege us. If there's anything I learned from Heiro and Starkey, it's that the diomedians are ponies too... but I still couldn't help but dwell on it. She wasn't a soldier either...
Regardless, I know it's what had to be done. There was no other way to be free of her hate and tyranny.
The crowning moment of it all though was, well, the crowning of Charity as the new princess. I can't think of a pony who has earned it more than she has. She has done an amazing job of turning Glitterglen into a prosperous city, far from the hellhole the old princess intended it to be. I have no doubt she will lead us to places Hugwax could never dream of.
Of course, with that comes the part that scares me. Her crowning is never going to be recognized by Tailentranced. It's only a matter of time until they hear of what has happened, or suspect it otherwise and send their armies to come find her. Glitterglen has withstood raids from the local diomedians, but I don't know how long we could stand against the full might of Tailentranced. We're free from Hugwax for now... but for how long? From what I understand, the general will take her place, and he's little better.
It's a time of hope, but also a time of uncertainty and fear. What world have I created for my daughter? I can't help but wonder if she would have been better off under Hugwax. If we fall to a siege, everypony here will probably be put to the sword. Even the children. The thought of that sickens me, and I don't want to dwell on it now.
I'm too tired to think about it right now. I didn't walk away from the fight without injuries, and just hours ago Friesden and the doctors pieced together the shattered bones in my lower spine where Thrash struck me. It's a miracle I can walk at all, they told me, which I'm not afraid to admit scared me quite thoroughly. My legs are still a bit weak, and they told me it could be like that for a few weeks yet, but I should recover soon. That's a relief at least.
I will suffer from the injury for the rest of my life though. I lost the feeling in my tail, and can't move it anymore. They tell me that's not likely to ever get better. I was pretty upset at first, but already I'm starting to come to terms with it. I can still walk, which in perspective is far, far more important.
At least I'll never forget what was done yesterday. Not that I thought I ever would.
Anyway, I'm tired, so I'm heading to bed now. I've got a lot to think about, but I think I'll put that off for now.
*******
As Kris finishes writing the page in her diary, she sets it aside and looks at the two ponies at her side. She wouldn't be leaving the hospital for a few days yet, but as long as she had them with her, she'd be fine. Adamant was sitting at her bedside, propped against it with his head lying on the bed next to hers, and she gave him a small nuzzle. "I love you, Addy." He was almost asleep, but makes a small smile at her. "I love you, too."
Lorica was snuggled up between the two of them on her bed, sleeping quietly. She couldn't help but see the parallel to the nights she had spent at her mother's side when she was in this hospital, but the situation was a bit happier this time at least. With her magic she lifts her paralyzed tail and drapes it across her daughter before curling up with her and Adamant as much as her braced back would allow her. It would take some time for her to heal, even with magic, but she was going to be fine.
And she could worry about the future later.
*******
Out of sight, but not out of mind, Falcata and Estoc sit just off to the side, watching their daughter cuddle with her family. Falcata nuzzles Estoc and leans against him with a large smile on her face. "I'm really proud of her. She's grown up so much, and done so much good."
Estoc returns the nuzzle and nods. "Yes, I couldn't be more proud of her." He wraps a foreleg around Falcata and adds, "I wish I could have been there for her, but you did a wonderful job raising her."
Falcata's smile persists as she replies, "I suppose I did a thing or two right after all." The smile fades a bit. "I just worry what will happen now..."
"Everything will be alright," Estoc assures her, drawing her in closer. "Just wait and see."
She wasn't so confident, but after seeing Hugwax and her underlings' souls off to their surely unpleasant judgment, she could see a little hope in the future. Charity and the others had come so far. They would see this to its end, when everypony lived without fear of their ruler.
And Falcata would be there, out of sight, for it all.
Post by: Paaaad on January 19, 2013, 01:34:38 pm
Post by: slothen on May 09, 2013, 12:43:06 pm
Post by: Telgin on May 09, 2013, 02:10:16 pm
I know there was an attempt to transcribe all of this and to edit it into a more readable form, but so far as I know that was never finished.
Post by: Iceblaster on May 09, 2013, 02:55:51 pm
Right here (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=89305.msg2458117#msg2458117)
Post by: Dsarker on May 09, 2013, 07:02:21 pm
KingStrongbeard's posts cover most of the important details. You may want to read the last few pages of the thread to be sure you get the entire ending, since I'm not sure if that's included in his journals.
I know there was an attempt to transcribe all of this and to edit it into a more readable form, but so far as I know that was never finished.
Yeah. You should yell at Khenal to do that.
Anyway, tl;dr of the thread - Friesden gets married to Khenal, Starkey gets married to Otik, Charity gets married to Crypt, Kris gets married to Addy, most every other claimed pony dies, they kill the evil queen, everypony lives happily ever after.
Post by: zarath on April 29, 2014, 09:01:05 am
Post by: TheImmortalRyukan on February 09, 2017, 03:59:04 pm