>>40927699
>The trip from Conjunction Junction to Gate City is a non-event thanks to the sheer amount of traffic this little stretch of the Badlands has on a daily basis
>Merchants, settlers, and business ponies move between the two cities with little worry for their safety under the eyes of the regular Royal Guard patrols
>Only once do you see any other private guards, a pair of earth ponies riding in a sputtering automobile
>Your caravan pulls to the side of the road upon spotting the contraption and you can’t help but stop and stare at the machine
>Unlike most Flimmobiles, the machine is painted a dull black and has a large rear compartment for holding precious goods with the name “Fargone Bells” written in gold lettering on the side
>The guard in the passenger seat scans over your caravan with a discerning eye, keeping his double barrel shotgun close to hoof
>”Ever think automobiles will be made for common pony?”
>You flick an ear at Soul Mane’s question
“Doubt it, at least in our lifetime. Pretty much only the army and banks have any use for them.”
>Besides that one instance, and the somewhat common occurrence of Royal Guard patrols, everypony else moves out of the way of your own caravan
>As you near Gate City the ground occasionally rumbles, forcing you to momentarily pause your progress
>Thankfully the tremors quickly pass without excitement and by sunset of the second day you stand on a hill on the outskirts of the old town
>Looking down from your perch you watch a wide shadow creep across the land, bisecting the city
>The ponies and donkeys of Gate City take the phenomena for granted as they hurry from their jobs to the local pubs and bars as lamplights begin to flicker to life
>Above the squat buildings stands the oppressive figure of The Gate, a stone arch built by some unknown Diamond Dog civilization long before the first Hearth's Warming
>The settlers under your care pause to appreciate the sight
>For most this will likely be the first and last time they’ll ever see such a sight
>From where you stand you can just barely see the jungle canopy that live atop the southern rim of the Badlands and by looking through The Gate itself you can see the dark earth trail of The Narrow, the miles long canyon that cuts through the Mysterious South
>A cool desert wind blows across the back of your neck, making you adjust your bandana before you return to your forward progress

>Your saddlebags land with a thump on the plush carpet as your jump onto your new bed
>Your hooves hurt from the day’s long walk and a familiar dull ache returns to your leg as you stretch out on the fresh sheets

>>40927704
>Your client, the Equestrian Rehoming Project, had been generous enough to provide you and your ponies with rooms at one of the newly built downtown hotels
>Which means you will have a free private room for the next few days as opposed to having to share one of the cramped rooms at the local Steady Stride office or giving up your hard earned bits for a shabby motel
>On the other side of this floor was Flash Fire and his crew, the settlers crammed into the rest of the rooms between your two groups
>From outside your fifth story window you could see the entirety of downtown, the night time glow of which gave your otherwise dark room plenty of light
>Somewhere down there was the ERP’s private guest housing, where Fleur and her entourage was staying during this layover
>You roll onto your side and look at the old alarm clock on your bedside table
>Eleven fifteen
>You sigh and close your eyes
>You’d have to report to your local office sometime in the morning but besides that you had the next day and a half off before you were expected to attend a formal ball, some invite private occasion the ERP was throwing in honor of a successful crossing of the Badlands
>You think about starting to read one of your new spells but sleep finds you before you can even open your eyes

>Sitting in the hotel’s cafeteria you sip at a hot cup of coffee between bites of egg and toast
>Sitting to either side of you is Soul and Barrel, who share sections of a newspaper
>Suppressing a yawn you take another bit of toast just as your young pegasus friend joins the table
>Taking a quick sip of her orange juice Silver Sleet looks at you excitedly
>”Hey, Ardie? We’re not on the clock today, right?”
“No, not technically, but we are on call. Why?”
>”I was wondering if it would be okay if I flew out to the jungle for the afternoon,” she says with a fluttering of wings. “Maybe nap on a cloud for a little bit. I figure this will be the only time I’ll have to check out something that isn’t desert for the next few weeks and I haven’t really had the chance to lay on a cloud in a while. I’ll be back before nightfall.”
>Before you can answer Barrel joins the conversation
>”If your considering giving us some liberty, I heard one of the settlers saying she and her husband wanted to take a good look at some of the old D-Dog statues. She asked if I would tell them about the things when we passed through but I figure if we’re gonna have down time I may as well take them to see the first couple. Shouldn’t take longer than half a day to get a good look at them and return.”
“How far would you be going?”
>”Oh, we’d stay within sight of the city, nothing crazy far. You’d be invited to join, of course.”
[Input Needed] [Do you give either, or both, of them leave? Also, what do you want to do with your free day?]

>>40927708
As long as they don't go far, should be fine. What plans do the rest of our group have? We should probably make sure at least some of us stay close-ish to our clients just in case.

>>40927939
“Alright, both of you can go ahead. Just don’t go too far.”
>Barrel nods in acknowledgment while Silver gives a happy flap of her wings
>”Thanks, Ardie!”
>You take a few more bites of your eggs before turning to Soul Mane
“What about you? Any plans before the ball?”
>The unicorn places a hoof on his paper so as not to lose his spot and looks to you
>”Not really. I saw you bought some new spell scrolls and I’ve been thinking that maybe I should try learning some more myself. I’ll probably take a look at some of the magic stores after checking in with a few of the music stores.”
“Didn’t you already check out records in Conjunction Junction?”
>”Yeah, but they didn’t have much in the way of old school rock, you know? Besides, I know Hollow said that she didn’t find what she was looking for either so I figured I’ll take a look for her while she sleeps.”
“Speaking of Hollow,” you say while turning to the group as a whole, “does anypony have any idea what she’s up to today? Besides sleeping?”
>Again, Soul Mane answers
>”I think she said she was going to take it easy before the ball.”
>”Yeah,” Silver adds, “she told me that she’s been feeling a little over socialized lately.”
>You nod and take another drink of your coffee
>”So,” asks Soul, “do you have any plans for today?”
[Input Needed]

>>40928065
I guess we might as well hit the shops too, maybe find even more new spells. Do we have to report to Fleur about any of this or was everything cleared up previously?

>>40928165
>Do we have to report to Fleur about any of this or was everything cleared up previously?
You don't need to report to Fleur until tomorrow's ball. You do, however, need to report to the local Steady Stride office.

>>40928170
Best do that first then.

>>40928065
>Somewhere down there was the ERP’s private guest housing, where Fleur and her entourage was staying
We should at least know where our clients' group is staying.

Bump

ITS BACK!!!!!!

>>40929010

“What time are you thinking about going to the magic shops?”
>”Sometime around noon, maybe early afternoon. Why? Are you coming?”
“I might as well. First I need to check in with the office and I want to at least know where our clients' group is staying.”
>”Alright. While you do that I’ll hit the music stores and we’ll meet back here around noon. Sound good?”
>You look at the time before downing the last of your coffee and finishing what’s left of your meal
“Sounds like a plan. The rest of you I expect to see here by sundown. Let me know that you’ve made it back first chance you get.”
>You stand up and turn to leave before Soul stops you
>”Wait, if you’re going to the office don’t forget this.”
>The unicorn digs through his saddlebag and pulls out the newspaper with the article about your recent battle with Shattered Horn’s gang
“Oh, right. You said that you thought it be a good thing to put in reception. I don’t know if Lemonade will approve but I’ll see.”
>You stick the paper into your saddlebag and head out

>You feel naked as you walk the streets without your barding or weapons
>Which you were, to be fair
>But after a long trip through the Badlands you couldn’t help but feel strange, vulnerable even
>Pushing your way through the morning rush you eventually make your way to the office where you are met with the chaotic noise of the Gate City branch’s morning routine
>Although you can’t see it from where you stand in the reception, the muffled sounds of ponies talking above the clatter of dishes gives you a good idea of what’s going on
>You give a quick look around the room
>While the muted orange walls and potted succulents give the office a nice desert feel, you can’t help but admit the reception was fairly boring otherwise
>Walking to the reception window you ring the big brass bell
>It takes another ring before Spiked Lemonade appears from behind a door, laughing about something you didn’t hear
>Once she notices you she gives you a warm, wide smile
>”Well if it isn’t my favorite little battle mage. How’s the trip going? I heard you guys put down a bandit gang outside Conjunction Junction.”
[Input Needed]

>>40929959
Yeah, trip hasn't been boring, at least. The badlands are kinda crazy right now. How are things here?

Bump

>>40931329

>>40930433
“Yeah, trip hasn't been boring, at least. The badlands are kinda crazy right now. How are things here?”
>Lemonade gives a dismissive wave of her hoof
>”Oh, you know, same as always. We’re a little bit busier than usual since you took half of the Appleloosa branch away but we’ll manage. Anywho, I suppose you’ll need to sign off on all the official paperwork. Shouldn’t take but a couple seconds.”
>The earth pony receptionist grabs a few sheets of paper and a quill
>You have to answer a few questions; were there any injuries, who and how severe, how many rations or other work supplies did you use, and so forth
>Thankfully they only require quick, simple answers that Lemonade writes down for you before passing you the papers to sign off on and placing them to the side once you’re done
>”So, what’s your plans for the day?” she asks with a wag of her tail. “We bought a new snooker table. Maybe we could play a few games?”
“Maybe later. I’m going to see if I can find out where Fleur de Lis is staying.”
>At your rejection Lemonade’s attitude deflates a little before she picks back up
>”Aww. Are you getting a little sweet on our client?”
>You ignore her teasing
“I figure it’d be best to at least know where to find her in case we end up needing to in a hurry.”
>Lemonade smiles deviously, “are you sure you aren’t a little sweet on her?”
“Honestly, I don’t even know her really. Other than watching her negotiate and walking alongside her we’ve only had a single conversation.”
>”Sure. Anywho, I could give you the directions to the Project’s office if you’d like. I’m sure if you told them who you are they’ll give you the address of where she’s staying.”
“I’d appreciate that.”
>Again Lemonade fetches some paperwork before scribbling down an address for you on a sticky note
>As she hoofs it over she says, “oh, and let me know if you guys end up going to my dad’s tonight. I’d like to join ya.”
>You say you will and thank the mare before returning to the city’s hectic streets

>As you make your way through the thinning traffic of the city streets you pass by several interesting shops
>The first is a large magic supply store, the front window advertising scrolls, thick tomes, and precious gems for enchanting
>The second is an armorer’s shop with surprisingly reasonable prices that advertises an enchanting service

>>40932157
>The last is an apothecary that sells both raw ingredients and ready made potions

>Finding the office wasn’t too hard, it was a tall glass monolith that stood out from the others with its purple and white facade
>Oddly, the Equestrian Rehoming Project’s offices were located in the central business district, a long ways away from the welcome center you visited just a month or so ago
>Thankfully by the time you get there the office workers were already a few hours into their shift and you were able to verify your identity and receive Fleur’s temporary address without much delay
>Still, the process is tedious and it takes a while before the office worker you’re talking to is permitted to give you what you wanted
>After checking the time you estimate you have enough time to either pay Fleur or someone in her entourage a quick visit or quickly browse a store before returning to your hotel, if you so wished
>Or maybe it would be better to just return a little bit early
[Input Needed]

>>40932161
Check with Fleur and try to sneakily ask about the spellbool. Sneakily because I don't want ardie to beg for the spellbook

>>40932550
Ask Fleur for the spellbook or the magic shop owner?

>>40932161
We can have a quick chat with Fleur, see how she's doing and if she needs anything. We're hitting the shops after anyway.
The enchanting service interests me, maybe we should check what they can do to our equipment when we come back with Soul.

>>40932569
Fleur. She promised us a spellbook right?

>>40932627
>Since you have the time and you’re already all the way out here, you might as well check in on Fleur
>Thankfully the ERP’s guess housing isn’t too far from the hotel
>In fact, you can even see what you’re pretty sure is your hotel window from the front gate of the gated street
>The gated community, an island of green lawns and Canterlotian houses in the middle of the desert city, is assumedly company owned if the guard at the gate’s ERP uniform is anything to go by
>Again you have to show your credentials before the guard is given permission to let you onto the premises
>You trot to the largest house located in the center of the property and give the door a knock
>Within a few seconds the door opens and you find yourself looking into the dark green eyes of one of Fleur’s assistants.
>”Oh, Mister Ardent Mind. We weren’t expecting you.”
“Sorry, I don’t mean to intrude. I just wanted to check in; see how she’s doing and if she needs anything.”
>The gentle sound of hooves on marble resonates from down the hall and you can hear Fleur’s voice call out
>”Is everything alright, Greenback?”
>The assistant, Greenback, you assume, turns away from you to answer
>”Yes, ma’am. It’s just Mister Ardent Mind here to check in on you.”
>You hear the hoof steps pick up speed and Fleur’s thin frame rounds a hallway corner
>”Mister Ardent Mind, how nice to see you. Please, come in.”
>Greenback steps out of your way and you step inside, making sure to wipe your hooves on the welcome mat beforehoof
>”Would you like some water, or perhaps some tea or coffee?” Fleur asks as she leads you into the living room in the rear of the house
“No, thank you, but I appreciate the offer Mi- Fleur.”
>The unicorn gives you a small smile at your correction

>>40932855
“To be honest, I don’t have much time to visit at the moment.”
>The two of you enter the living room and sit in chairs across from each other
>”Oh? You have plans, then? That’s probably for the best. I don’t have much free time myself, unfortunately. I appreciate you taking the time to check in on me. You’re clearly dedicated to this job. I’m doing fine, we have plenty of security so you needn’t worry about me.”
“That’s good to hear. Still, if you need anything just call on me or one of my guards.”
>”I appreciate it,” she says before bringing a teacup to her lips and taking a long drink. “How are you finding the city? You probably know it better than I.”
>You shrug
“It’s fine. I don’t usually get the chance to just relax when I’m here so I’m still pretty unfamiliar with the place. Soul Mane and I are going to take a look at some of the magic stores around here.”
>>40932550
>You suddenly remember something Fleur had said previously
“You said you have a friend that owns a magic shop here, right? Mind giving me the address? If I’m checking out magic stores anyways I might as well check their store.”
>Fleur nods
>”Indeed, I do know one of the local mages. Grabbing an elegant quill and parchment from a desk across the room, Fleur begins writing a note in flowery cursive
>”I believe I promised to try to arrange a free spell book or scroll for you as well.”
>With a final flourish the ivory mare passes you the parchment, which you stick in your saddlebag
>”Give that to Aspect when you see her, and please give her my regards. Hopefully she’ll give you at least something worth your while. On the back is the address. Now, is there anything else you’d like to talk about before you have to go?”
[Input Needed]

>>40932858
Is there anything I should know about this ball we'll be attending?

>>40933275
“Is there anything I should know about this ball we'll be attending?”
>”It’s going to be held at the mayor’s mansion and will start shortly before sundown. You’ll be expected to wear formal clothes and dinner will be provided. And remember, you’re guests, not hired security while attending the ball. So please, do relax and have fun.”
>With that a clock somewhere in the house chimes eleven thirty
>You give a polite bow of your head and raise to your hooves
“I understand and will be sure to pass that on to my team. Thank you for the hospitality, but I need to return to my hotel.”
>”Don’t worry, I understand. I’ll see you at the ball. Until then, I hope you’ll enjoy your time off. It may be a while before you’ll have another day off once we depart for The Narrow.”
>You give another polite bow before leaving for the door, Greenback escorting you all the way

>Back at the hotel you are pleased to find Soul Mane already waiting for you
“So, how were the music stores? Find everything you wanted?”
>”Sure did. Already sent a few albums back to Appleloosa. The other two I’ll listen to before sending them back to Appleloosa as well.”
“Did you rent a phonograph or something?”
>”Nah, the hotel has a few that they’ll lend to distinguished guests like ourselves. I’ll grab one tonight. Hollow will probably do the same since a few of the stores around here carry her type of music.”
>Soul Mane throws his saddlebags onto his back
>”So, how was the Gate City branch? Did you find where Fleur is staying?”
“Lemonade and the rest are fine as far as I can tell. She wants us to invite her to drinks if we go to Double Taps. Fleur’s staying at a gated community about twenty or so minutes walk from here. I saw a few shops that you might be interested in seeing, besides the magic shops.”
>He raises an eyebrow, “oh? And those’d be?”
“There’s an armorer I’d like to check out and there’s an apothecary with some potions for sale.”
“I’m down for either. Anyways, if you’re ready we can head out.”
“Sure, let’s go.”
[Input Needed] [Where do you want to go first?]

>>40933567
Let's check out the armorer. Should probably bring our gear in case we want some of it enchanted?

>>40933836
Lets see if we have enough bits first.

Boop

>>40934079
>You quickly count your bits and find you are only carrying just under three hundred
>However, your bank account is fairly full for the first time in years and after checking your most recent bank receipt your total number of bits comes to 39,870.
>Which is a lot of money
>And probably the only money you’ll have until you make it back to Appleloosa
>While you’d like to grow your little nest egg, most basic spell scrolls only cost about a thousand
>>40933836
“Hang on, let’s go grab our gear. I want to hit the armorer first and we might as well bring our equipment in case we want it enchanted.”
>After you each grab your gear you head to the armorer

>A bell above the door chimes as you enter well lit armor and weapons store
>The sound of steel on a grindstone somewhere in the back of the store comes to a sudden stop and the unicorn clerk at the counter looks up from her magazine at you
>Placed around the store floor are samples of various armors while weapons line the walls
>As you begin looking around the shop a heavyset earth pony stallion comes out of the back door
>”Good afternoon, gentlecolts. Do you need help with anything?”
“Just looking for now. Might need some assistance in a little bit, though.”
>”Go ahead and take your time. If you need any help feel free to ask my lazy daughter.”
>The unicorn clerk rolls her eyes before returning to her magazine while her father returns to the back room
>Looking over the armor first, you find a few interesting pieces that may be worth replacing your leather barding

>>40935530
Armor:
>Reinforced Barding: 450 bits
A slightly more protective set of armor than what you already have without any notable drawbacks.

>Scale Mail: 3,000 bits
A full set of armor that covers everything up to your neck. It offers a good deal more protection than what you currently wear but it would be a little bit too cumbersome for a flier or particularly dexterous pony to use effectively. For you, however, that won’t be an issue.

>Guard Armor: 2,000 bits
A set of steel armor similar to standard issue Royal Guard armor, including a helmet. While it doesn’t cover your entire body, it does offer better protection overall compared to scale mail. It’s also clunky and heavy, so much so you doubt you’ll be able to perform at your best. Comes without any military coloration or insignia.

>Full Plate: 12,500 bits
A full set of thick steel armor that covers your entire body, including a helmet for the head. While the armor offers some of the best personal non-magical protection in the world, it is extremely heavy. It would require a strong pony to be able to use efficiently. The unicorn variant has a hole in the helmet for a horn.

>Shield: 500 bits
A full sized shield requiring either a free hoof or being held aloft by magic. Comes in circular, box, and kite variants.

>Helmet: 200 bits
A simple steel helmet that covers both your head and the back of your neck. Provides marginally more protection.

>”Bullet Proof” Sun Hat: 215 bits
A wide, conical sheet metal helmet that reminds you of the straw hats farmers in the far east sometimes wear. While the helmets don’t cover the neck, they provide shading from the sun and leave your vision unhindered. There is an enchantment on them that presumably adds extra protection for your head. Unicorn variants come with a hole for the horn.

>Walking around the various display mannequins you find a unique item you’ve never seen before
>The contraption isn’t armor, rather a set of straps and levers that wrap around a pony with a bit piece for the mouth
>The device, labeled as a “Battle Saddle”, is designed for the use of firearms
>The firearm is placed in a holster that runs parallel with the body with a pulley system attached to the mouth bit so that the wearer may pull the trigger by simply biting down
>The point of the device seems to be to allow the user to fire their weapon without having to either awkwardly balance on their rear hooves or lay down while also making firearms a more practical choice for close quarters combat
>The price isn’t unreasonable either, only 700 bits

>>40935533
>Finished looking at the armor, you move onto looking at the weapons rack

>Spear: 20 bits
A simple, versatile weapon that can be used with a shield, two-hooved, or thrown. Decent range but requires some space to use effectively. Comes in a set of two.

>Sword: 150 bits
A versatile weapon that requires training. Capable of reliably slashing or stabbing anything, a sword is a reliable piece of gear, even in a Diamond Dog tunnel. Short range but decent damage. Unicorns have the option of using a double sided variation with no handle.

>Flail: 250 bits
A uniquely designed weapon requiring a good deal of training to use effectively. A flail has a heavy studded steel ball attached to a handle by a length of metal chain. A flail typically deals more damage than a sword will.

>War Hammer: 200 bits
A deadly polearm that can be used to devastating effect. Capable of both blunt and piercing damage but requires space to use.

>Halberd: 250 bits
Another deadly polearm, capable of piercing and slashing damage.

>Bowtie Knife: 50 bits
Commonly called bowies, the Bowtie is a large knife related to but different from the standard field knife in your kit. Lightweight, concealable, and deadly up close, the combat knife is better as a sidearm than a primary. Can also be thrown a decent distance, should the need arise. Comes in a set of five.

>Buffalo Bow: 350 bits
A type of longbow used by Buffalo tribes. It deals good damage and has a long range but is a poor choice in close quarters. Comes with 15 arrows.

>Crossbow: 350 bits
A typical crossbow requiring either the use of two hooves or being levitated by magic. While it isn’t as powerful as a Buffalo Bow and takes much longer to load, it fares better in close quarters and still delivers a powerful blow.

>Maretini-Whinny: 750 bits
An Equestrian copy of a Griffonian weapon, the Maretini-Whinny is a single shot rifle with impressive range. With the longest range of any weapon, it delivers decent damage but fares poorly in close combat. Ammo is expensive and hard to come by. Comes with 15 bullets. Optics not included.

>While you look over the weapons, Soul addresses the mare at the counter
>”Excuse me, ma’am. Do you mind telling me what sorts of enchantments you offer?”
>Without looking up from her magazine she points to a sign behind her

>>40935534
>ARMOR AND WEAPON ENCHANTMENTS
>Light Weight: 550 bits
An enchantment that greatly reduces an armor’s weight.

>Protection: 575 bits
An enchantment that adds a marginal amount of extra protection to a piece of armor.

>Triple Point’s Temperature Protection: 575 bits
An enchantment that fundamentally changes the material of a piece of armor. The armor becomes immune to drastic temperature changes, protecting uses from things such as fire or cold magic. Available as either the Protection from Cold or Fire variant.

>Self Cleaning: 200 bits
A simple spell that prevents scorchings, stainings, or blemishes.

>Whetstone’s Vicious Spirit
A simple spell that makes weapons deal slightly more damage.

>While you contemplate your decisions, Soul Mane begins making small talk with the unicorn
[Input Needed]

My vote would be for the Sun Hat and the Scale Mail, with Fire Protection. If it's possible to have more than one enchantment, maybe the light weight one too.

>>40935561
I'll leave votes open for now, but for future reference you may up to two enchantments on a single piece of equipment. Sorry, I meant to type that but forgot.

>>40935537
>Whetstone’s Vicious Spirit
What's the price?

>>40935657
575 bits.

>>40935561
I'm good with this.

>>40935561
>>40935708
>You approach the clerk and wait for your chance to interrupt Soul
“Excuse me, I think I’ve made my selection.”
>The clerk nods and puts down her magazine
“I’d like the Sun Hat and the Scale Mail, with Fire Protection and a lightweight enchantment.”
>You don’t have the bits on you but thankfully you’re able to just write a check at no extra cost
>The mare clicks some keys on the cash register before taking your check and giving you a receipt
>”I’ll place the temperature spell on your helmet for free. Meanwhile, grab the set of Scale Mail that best fits you and bring it into the back. My dad will resize it for you. Shouldn’t take longer than an hour, maybe fifteen minutes if you’re lucky. Then I’ll place the enchantment which should only be ten minutes at most.”
>You thank her and do as told
>In the back of the shop is a forge, work bench, and a grindstone
>The burly stallion from before looks up from the spear he is working on when you enter
>He takes a long look at the receipt that you give him before taking your measurements and within forty minutes you’re strapping into your new armor for a final examination
>The stallion pays close attention to how you check over your armor
>”You didn’t do time in the Guard, did you?”
>You trot a small circle around the room and pay close attention to any possible chafing points
“Matter of fact, I did. I was a researcher in the aviation branch.”
>Finding the armor perfectly balanced with no pinch points or chafing, you stop in place and begin to undo your straps
>”I figured you did some kind of military service. Lots of ponies with no experience come by to buy armor and weapons for travel. Doesn’t take long to spot the difference between those who know what they are or aren’t doing.”
>He hoofs you burlap sack to carry your armor in
>”I was in back before you were born, probably. I was the quartermaster for fifth IR by the time my pa passed this place down.”
>You give the stallion a polite nod to show you’re paying attention before thanking him for the help and heading to the door
>”Hey, keep safe, will ya? Badlands are looking to be rough this year.”
“I’ll try. It was nice meeting you.”
>Returning to the shop floor you find Soul Mane back in conversation with the clerk, a sun hat similar to yours tied to one of his saddlebags while yours sets on the counter
>”... so yeah, you could say I know what it’s like dealing with overbearing ponies. And that’s not mentioning my ex.”
>You place your new sun hat into your burlap sack and head towards the door
“Ready to go, Soul.”
>Though you word it as a question, Soul gets the message and follows you out

>>40935857
>Not far away is the magic store Fleur had mentioned to you
>Like the other shop, displays for grimoires and precious gems sit in the outside window
>As you walk through the glass door, which opens on its own for you, you are greeted with a pleasant scent of perfume and a soft series of chimes
>The store is fairly large with several employees spaced about either cleaning or reading thick tomes
>An elderly mare at the counter stops her dusting of a crystal display and turns to you
>”Good afternoon, gentlecolts. Welcome to Arcane Artifacts and Affinity. If you need anything, let one of us know.”
>As Soul goes to look at some of the medical spells, you grab Fleur’s letter and present it to the mare
“I’m working with Miss Fleur de Lis at the moment. She told me to come down here and present this to the owner.”
>The old mare grabs a pair thick glasses and grabs the floating note with her own magic
>”Ah, I see. This is my son’s shop, but I can authorize this transaction. I can’t give you a full spell book, you see, but after what that little lady did for us I can give you a couple scrolls. Go ahead and pick two scrolls out of the back shelf and I’ll give them to you for free.”
>You’re surprised that the note worked at all
>Not that you doubted Fleur, but spells were expensive things to give away
>Walking pass the single use spells stored in gems (50 bits each) you walk up to the back wall
>Many of the other selves are filled with spells either out of your current abilities or far below them but not useful for your line of work
>Looking over you options, you consider a few that shouldn’t take too long for you to learn while also being useful while ignoring the three that you’ve already purchased

Almanac’s Summon Rain Cloud (1,000): Somewhere within 100 feet of yourself, you create a super compact rain cloud that takes up the rough shape of a 30 foot diameter sphere. The cloud carries up to 10 gallons of water and can be manipulated as normal. Cast Time: 6 Seconds
Animal Friend (1,000): Pick any animal within 100 feet that isn’t actively hostile to you. You cast a charm spell on that animal. If that spell succeeds, that animal becomes friendly towards you and you are able to understand each other via telepathic link and the animal becomes willing to obey any orders that will not obviously harm the animal. Requires concentration. Cast Time: 1 Minute. Lasts for up to an hour.
Babel (1,000): For up to an hour, you confuse a target’s language, causing it to be unable to speak or write in any known language. Requires concentration. Cast Time: Instantaneous
Barkskin (1,500): You touch a creature with your horn. For up to an hour, the target's fur is transformed into a thick tree bark. The bark is perfectly flexible and as durable as heavy armor. Cast Time: 1 Minute

>>40935861
>Blinding Light (1,250):
You emanate a focused beam of light from your horn at up to three separate targets over the course of 6 seconds. The beam is visible and, if aimed at the eyes of a target, causes blindness up to 12 seconds. Cast Time: Instantaneous
>Bolas (1,000):
You create a magical length of cord a few feet in length that you launch at a target. On a successful hit, the legs (or one set of limbs if the target is a biped) are bound together. The cord lasts for one hour and may be destroyed by being severed with a blade. Cast Time: Instantaneous
>Clear Mind (1,250):
You put the tip of your horn against a target’s forehead and instantly clear their mind of any charm equal to or weaker than your magic level. (Spells that are stronger than your own magical level will require a roll.) Cast time: Instantaneous
>Clear Sight (1,250):
As long as you maintain concentration, you are able to see any invisible creature as if it were normally visible. Cast Time: 1 minute
>Compass (750):
You create the illusion of a compass needle. The needle always points to true north. Last as long as you maintain concentration. Cast Time: Instantaneous
>(Basic) Earth Sight (1,000):
Maintaining concentration, you close your eyes and stand still. While the spell is active, you become sensitive to vibrations in the ground and can locate anything that is in contact with the ground and currently moving, including creatures and machines as small as a field mouse. You can sense anything within 500 ft. of you. Cast Time: Instantaneous. Lasts for as long as you maintain concentration, contact with the ground, and stay still.
>Feather Fall (1,250):
Choose up to five creatures within 60 ft. For the next five minutes, those creatures fall at a slower than natural rate which protects them from fall damage. Cast Time: Instantaneous

>>40935864
>Grease (1,000):
You conjure enough grease to cover a 10’x10’ square centered somewhere within 60’ of yourself. The grease has all the normal properties of grease and is highly flammable. Cast Time: 6 seconds
>Green Sting’s Detect Poison (1,000):
Maintaining concentration, you can sense the presence and location of any poisons or poisonous creatures within 30 feet of you. Thanks to your spell talent, you also identify the kind of poison or creature in each case. Cast Time: Instantaneous
>Mark Target (1,250):
Pick a target with 300 ft. That creature becomes magically marked and takes on an easily noticeable red magical glow. So long as you maintain concentration, any attempts made by any creature to attack the target gain advantage to hit. Cast Time: 6 seconds
>Night Vision (1,000):
You either touch a target with your horn or cast the spell on yourself. For up to 12 hours the target has night vision. Cast Time: 1 Minute
>Tumble Turner’s Lockpick (1,250):
You envelop a lock in arcane light. Over the course of six seconds, you attempt to open the lock with a telekinetic pick and wrench. The success of the spell is based on your Intelligence stat. Cast Time: 6 seconds
>Want It; Need It (2,000):
You charm a small object. The object becomes irresistible to all who see it. The scroll comes with a warning to not cast the spell in a large crowd. Cast Time: Instantaneous

[Input Needed]

>>40935867
Earth Sight and Bolas sound useful for our circumstances. I assume Earth Sight works on underground things too?

>>40935886
>I assume Earth Sight works on underground things too?
Yes. It also works for things above you so long as they are also in range and somehow connected to the ground.

>>40935892
Cool, I'd say grab those two at least. How long will it take to learn our pile of new spells?

>>40936076
Each spell takes three to five days to learn. You’ve already learned your new shield spell and have previously purchased two others. It will take you between 12-20 days to learn all four of your spells.

bump

>>40936920

>>40935886
>You grab the scrolls for the Earth Sight and Bolas spells and head to the counter
>”Are those your choices?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
>The old mare places your scrolls into a small paper bag and jots down something in a ledger
>Once your transaction is finished and you step out of the way Soul places his own pair of scrolls on the counter
>Unlike you, however, Soul has to write a check out for his purchase
>Once outside the store you check the nearest clock and calculate you probably have enough time for one more store, if you so wished
“So,Soul, what’d you buy?”
>”Oh, just a couple spells that shouldn’t be too hard for me to learn. I’m not as much of a scholar as you are so I’ve got to be a little more picky with the spells I learn.”
“What spells specifically?”
>”Animal Friend and Green Sting’s Detect Poison. I figure having a backup spell for any poisons we encounter would be a good idea.”
“And the Animal spell? Seems a little out of your portfolio.”
>Soul shrugs, “I’ve always been fond of Fluttershy, especially her relationship with animals. Anyways, anywhere else you want to go or should we return to the hotel?”
[Input Needed]

>>40938197
Let's check out the potions shop too if they've got some cool brews.

>>40938503
“There was a potion shop I want to check out. Maybe they have some cool brews.”
>”Sounds good to me. If they have any antidotes for a reasonable price I’ll pick some up. I’ve been meaning to do that.”

>The apothecary is a quaint little building made of wood in the middle of a block of mud brick buildings
>Toxic smelling fumes emanate from behind a closed door in the back of the building, overpowering the burning incense spaced throughout the store
>An earth pony colt sits behind the counter and waves a hoof at you before returning to cleaning a box of glass bottles
>Looking at the shelves in the middle of the room you find a variety of raw ingredients, such as various mushrooms, powders, and strange slimes
>Brewing equipment, including some lightweight portable versions, are displayed on tables in the back
>In glass display cases next to the counter are ready made potions, with five of each flavor available for immediate purchase

Agility (75): A potion that grants the consumer a boon to both their general dexterity and to their speed. Lasts for 1 hour.
Antidote (100): A generic antidote for various poisons and venoms.
Barkskin (75): A creature that drinks this brew has their fur transformed into a thick tree bark. The bark is perfectly flexible and as durable as heavy armor. Lasts for 1 hour
Fire Bomb (100): A small flask of pyrophoric liquid. Breaking the glass spreads fire in a 5 foot diameter circle. Any flammable objects with the circle and instantly ignited. A creature caught in this circle when the glass first breaks takes a great deal of damage while any creature that enters the area or catches fire takes a minor amount of damage until they are extinguished. Also generates a small amount of smoke, enough to cover a single pony standing immediately behind the flames.

>>40938729
Fire Proofing (75): By drinking this brew a creature becomes immune to the scorching and heating effects of fire. Lasts for 4 hours.
Grease (20): A jug of gray, oily grease. The jug holds enough grease to cover a 10 foot by 10 foot circle on the ground and is highly flammable.
Health Potion (100): The potion equivalent of an Advanced Healing spell.
Invisibility Potion (175): By drinking this brew a creature becomes completely invisible for up to 1 hour.
Mana Potion (75): A magical creature that drinks this brew regains all of its spent magical energy and is relieved of any magical burnout.
Poison (50): A creature that consumes the entire bottle becomes fatally poisoned. If the creature does not receive medical treatment within 1 hour they will likely die. Smaller doses, while not likely to kill, cause intense pain. Applying the brew to a weapon makes the weapon deal slightly more damage for up to an hour.
Potion of Bear Strength (50): The physical strength of a creature that drinks this potion is temporarily increased by a decent amount for 1 hour.
Sleep Potion (100): A creature that drinks this potion may immediately fall asleep, depending on their constitution. A full potion makes a creature sleep for a full 8 hours.
Smoke Bomb (50): A simple combination of natural chemical ingredients. By lighting a small fuze at the mouth of the bottle the user creates a large cloud of smoke. Lasts for 10 minutes.
Water Breathing (75): A creature that drinks this brew grows a small set of gills on their neck and gains the ability to breath underwater. Lasts for up to 8 hours.

[Input Needed]

>>40938731
Let's grab at least
3x health potion
2x mana potion
1x antidote
1x bear strength
1x water breathing
1x smoke bomb

>>40938762
Not much water to breathe in thus far. Unless there's water where we're going, seems kinda odd that it's being sold here.

>>40938729
I kinda want to ask him if there's a way to brew potions indoors without stinking up the place. If we can find something that'll let Hollow start making potions again, it might make a nice gift.

>>40938816
I know, it just seems like the kind of thing that would be nice to have just in case. We might run into water underground, too.

>>40938762
>You clear your throat to get the colt’s attention and he immediately springs to his hooves
“I’d like to buy some of these.”
>You point with a hoof to the specific potions in the display while the colt grabs them and places them in a reused six pack container
>>40938819
>As he does so, you ask him a question
“Do you know if there’s a way to brew potions indoors without stinking up the place?”
>”Well, you’ll always have some smell but it shouldn’t be too noticeable, even in a small room with nasty ingredients. If you know what you’re doing and there’s ventilation, that is. That stench in the back is from my sister. She knocked over a whole container of garlic cloves and burnt the living crap out of them. My parents are trying to fix that right now. Sorry for the inconvenience.”
>You think about maybe buy Hollow one of the portable brew sets as a gift but decide you’ll wait on it for now
>You can always come back tomorrow before the ball
>As you write the check to pay for the bill, the colt throws a half dozen small peppermint candies into a small paper sack and pushes them toward you
>You raise an eyebrow at the small gift
>”Every purchase comes with half a dozen candies. They’re my own recipe!” the blank flank colt says with a wag of his tail
>You step out of the way for Soul Mane to pay for his own order and take a sniff at the candies
>They smell delicious and do a better job of hiding the noxious orders of the store than the incense
>Soul purchases the remaining health and mana potions, as well as the remaining antidotes and a single sleep potion
>As you return to the city streets and begin making your way back to the hotel, Soul pops one of the small candies into his mouth
>The purple stallion makes a pleased hum
>”Damn. This ain’t half bad. Colt’s got talent. I might swing back to buy some more before the ball.”

>As you return to your hotel’s block you spot Barrel and Silver chatting just outside the front door and pick up your pace to join them
>”...holes were pretty deep.”
>You interrupt the stallion to make your presence known
“Good timing. How were your trips?”
>Silver answers first
>”It was great! There’s a little public trail through the jungle that I found. There’s all sorts of cool stuff up there. Oh, and I found some of these cool looking things.”
>The pegasus grabs a beautiful, scaly pink and green fruit
>”I saw a bunch of these little monkeys eating them. They kinda look like kiwis on the inside.”
>Soul Mane telekinetically takes the fruit from the mare’s hoof and gives a mirthful chuckle
>”It’s a dragon fruit. Back when I was performing in Las Pegasus I would pound these cocktails that were served with a slice of one of these things. They’d cut up the fruits right in front of you. Huh, those were the days.”
>Soul spins the fruit on the tip of his hoof before returning it to Silver, who returns it to her saddlebag and continues her story

>>40938917
>”Oh, cool. I grabbed enough for each of us so if anypony wants one feel free. Anyways, after I got bored of the jungle I snagged a rain cloud and just chilled out until I had to come back.”
“Sounds like you had a good time. What about you, Barrel?”
>”It was fine. The couple I was with seemed pretty happy with the tour. Looks like the government’s given the go ahead for some archaeological expeditions. There were a bunch of college kids digging up some of the outer ruins.”
“Are you sure they were official and not just random treasure hunters?”
>”Sure seemed official. They had the area roped off and a couple city guards were there. Ask me, it’s about time we started looking into the place. We don’t know anything about the old D-Dog civilization. There could be all sorts of useful things buried away. In fact, I remember reading a theory about how the old clans-”
>Silver gives a loud yelp and stumbles over, interrupting Barrel
>As you all turn to see what happened you spot a familiar blue colt getting up from the ground next to Silver
>”Ow, really? Right on the stitches?” asks Silver as she rises to her hooves
>”Sorry, miss,” the colt says as he offers his hoof to help, “I… was thinking about something.”
>Once Silver is back on her hooves the colt walks away, joining the crowded city streets
>”Wasn’t that the colt that was crushing on Silver?” asks Soul Mane
“I think so. In fact, I know it was. I recognize his face and voice.”
>”Well, he seems to be over his feelings. Or at least he isn’t nervous around her anymore.”
>Barrel adds, “more than that, I think. He acted like he’s never even seen us before.”
>The four of you decide to return to your rooms to drop off your new purchases, Silver limping slightly as you walk inside

>After you spend some time in your room you check in with your team, including the just awoken Hollow
>The five of you agree to have dinner together at a nearby restaurant before discussing your plans for the rest of the night

>As you wait for your food to arrive, your group debates what you want to do tonight
>”So… drinks? I’m not paying this time, but that bar we went to seemed nice.”
>Barrel shrugs at Silver’s suggestion, “sure, I’ll have a couple beers before bed.”
>”I’ve spent too much money today as is,” says Soul Mane, “so I’m out.”
>You’re a little taken aback by Soul’s out of character answer
>You’d never known the stallion to be careful with his bits
>”I’m gonna hit up one of the music stores before they close and just chill in my room tonight,” answers Hollow
>Silver rolls her eyes before looking to you
>”What about you, Ardie? Are you coming” And didn’t you say something about the local office’s receptionist wanting to go out tonight? Should we invite her?”
[Input Needed]

>>40938918
Let's do it. Kinda curious about Soul's change of mind but we can talk about it later. And trying to get the batto to change her mind is probably pointless.

>>40938974
“Sure, why not? We’ll swing by the office after dinner and pick up Lemonade before hitting Double Tap’s.”
>The rest of your dinner is filled with idle chit chat
>You make sure to tell your teammates about what Fleur told you about the upcoming ball before your group splits up

>Walking into the Gate City office you find Spiked Lemonade idly playing with a Newton’s Cradle
>She looks up and, once seeing you, instantly cheers up
>”Hey, Ardie! I’m glad you came back.”
>She walks out from behind her desk to stand closer with your group
>”And Barrel Cactus! It’s been a while. It’s so nice to see you.”
>”Nice to see you too, Lemonade.”
>The brown mare looks at your periwinkle pegasus friend before looking at you expectantly
“Oh, right. Spiked Lemonade, this is Silver Sleet. Silver Sleet, this is Spiked Lemonade. Lemonade is an old friend of ours.”
>The two mares give warm greetings to each other
>”Is this the pony who crossed the Badlands for her first time last month?”
“As a matter of fact, she is. Unfortunately there won’t be any free drinks today.”
>Spiked Lemonade shrugs and tells you she needs to grab some bits before she goes back into the employee’s area
>While you wait for her, Barrel and Silver idly look around the room
>”Hey, Ardie?” asks Silver. “Did you mention the newspaper to Lemonade yet?”
>You slap a hoof to your head
“No, sorry. I’ll bring it up once she gets back.”
>A few minutes later Lemonade returns, her pink mane freshly brushed and she wears a simple dress
>”How do I look? Dad insists that I dress up a little before coming to the bar.”
“You look good.”
>You don’t mean much beyond common courtesy when you say that but Lemonade gives you a bright smile nonetheless while you fetch the newspaper from your saddlebag
“I forgot to ask earlier, but my team thinks you should frame this and put it up on the wall. It’s about our recent run in with those bandits I told you about.”
>Spiked Lemonade glances over the article before gently tossing it onto her desk
>”I’ll think about it. I’ll need to read the whole story first. So, are we ready?”
“After you.”
>With that you depart for the bar

>When you enter the bar Silver and Barrel go to find a table for your group while you and Lemonade head to the rail to buy drinks for the group
>Double Tap nods to you when he spots you but serves the other customers before coming to serve you
>”Been a while since I saw the two of you in here together. How’s work been, Ardent?”
“It’s been fine. Little bit more dangerous than normal at the moment but we’ve been holding our own.”
>The old bartender snorts
>”From what I’ve read, that’s putting it lightly. Caravaning is dangerous enough work as is; there’s a reason why I forbade my daughter from getting involved with guard business.”

>>40939294
>Lemonade gives an exaggerated roll of her eyes
>”And look how far that’s gotten you.”
>”A beautiful daughter that works as a secretary for a guard company. If that’s as far as your involvement with guards goes, that’s fine by me.”
>The stallion gives you a serious look for a moment before opening up the icebox behind the counter and passes you cold bottle of beer
>”That one’s on me. Now, what can I get you?”
>The two of you order for the group and within a few minutes join your companions, drinks in hoof

>The next hour and a half or so is spent catching up with the goings on of the Gate City branch and Lemonade’s personal life
>True to his word, Barrel holds back on his drinks in contrast to your other two companions, who drink plenty
>You yourself drink enough to get drunk but not enough so that you lose your senses
>At some point a live band begins playing, replacing the old victrola
>As the night drags on the music shifts from modern hits to older, more nostalgic songs from your youth
>Friends and couple slowly begin to populate the empty floor near the band and begin to dance in tune with the music, or close enough to count
>Just as your group’s conversation begins to die down a song that you remember being particularly popular at highschool dances begins
>”Dear Celestia,” Lemonade says excitedly, “I haven’t heard this since I was a teenager.”
>The off duty secretary raises to her hooves, knocking over a few empty bottles in her drunken excitement and offers a hoof to you
>”Hey, want to dance with me?”
>Her eyes lock onto yours, the drunken blush on her cheeks matching her mane
[Input Needed]

>>40939300
No our hooves hurt and the music is too loud, wish we were home studying magic.
Nah jk, let's cut a rug with a cutie.

bump

>>40939769

>>40940203

>>40941143

>>40939325
>You stand to your hooves, careful not to spill the rest of your drink
“Of course,” you say as you reach for her hoof with your own
>The moment your hooves meet you are jolted toward the dancefloor as the tall mare drags you by the hoof
>Once you find an empty space between the couples Lemonade lets you go and jumps into the rhythm, the nearby speakers making it hard to hear anything but the music
>It’s been a long while since you’ve last danced like this but you it only takes a few seconds before you find your groove
>Like the rest of the crowd, the two of you dance to the beat without any thought ahead
>Lemonade swings her head back and forth as she sings with the music, her hooves moving wildly below her
>You stay opposite of her, your own improv taking a spot in the back of your mind while you focus on watching your partner
>The two of you dance together without coordination
>In a sense, you dance together without dancing together
>Song after song you keep your pace, changing only to match the tempo
>Occasionally you catch glimpses of your other friends who watch you from your table
>Silver mouths something to you that you don’t quite catch and gives you a toothy smile
>You shot her a confused look and she takes the hint
>Just as she begins to mouth the words again your partner bumps into your chest, giggling
>Lemonade shouts an apology and giggles, never missing a beat with her hooves as she dances close to your body
>So close in fact that you can feel the warmth of her body against your coat
>The constant exercise makes your heart thump in your chest, which becomes more noticeable when Lemonade’s eyes lock onto yours
>She breaks contact momentarily, her eyes flickering down your face before returning to met yours
>As one song ends for another to begin Lemonade closes her eyes and gently juts her face forward, lips slightly parted for a kiss
[Input Needed]

>>40941701
Smooch the mare!

bump

>>40941909
>You’re not going to leave a mare hanging
>You bring your lips to hers
>It feels… different kissing a mare that's your own height
>But, man, do her lips feel great
>The kiss is quick, maybe only half a second or so and Lemonade is the first to break off
>Opening your eyes you see her pink blush deepen and she giggles
>Immediately your overly analytical mind goes down a rabbit hole
>Perhaps you did something wrong, or maybe she didn’t mean the kiss
>But your doubts are quieted when she gives you another quick peck and presses herself into you
>Your skin becomes electric as she nuzzles her head against your neck and you take in a whiff of her perfume
>Lemon and bergamot
>The two of you dance to one more song together, this time holding each other close and exchanging sweet kisses
>”You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to do that,” she whispers in your ear
>She wasn’t wrong, either
>You hold her as you sway together as another song begins to play
>Looking over Lemonade’s shoulder you see your friends at the table
>Silver excitedly waves at you, a wide smile on her face
>Barrel, meanwhile, leans back in his seat and talks to Double Tap, who watches you closely as you hold his daughter in your hooves
“I like this. A lot. But I think we should get going.”
>To your relief your partner hums in agreement and you two separate, but not by much
>As you push your way back to the table Double Tap retreats back to the rail
>Silver gives a foalish squeal of delight when you return
>”Aww, that was so cute! You two are cute together.”
>Lemonade giggles and kisses you on the cheek
>”Your dad ain’t happy,” warns Barrel, “but he also cleared your tabs for the night.”
>The old ranchhoof downs the last drops of his beer before rising to his hooves
>”Welp, about time I hit the hay. Ready, Silver?”

>>40942530
>The pegasus nods before shakily raising to her own hooves
>Barrel looks at you, “I assume you’re going to walk Spiked Lemonade home?”
“Of course.”
>Barrel nods and says his goodbyes for the night before following Silver out of the door with Lemonade and yourself not far behind

>It’s a particularly cold and windy night in the city, which suits you just fine
>Lemonade leans into you the few blocks it takes to reach her apartment, your combined body heat keeping you comfortable
>Though you only exchange a couple quick kisses on the cheeks, Lemonade nuzzles you more than enough to keep the feelings high
>On the corner of her block is a 24/7 pharmacy that you make sure to bookmark in your mind
>Entering the complex, you make sure to escort her to her unit on the second floor
>Only once she has to fish her keys out of her saddlebag do you two separate
>It takes a second but she finally manages to unlock the door
>Stepping into the doorway she stops to face you before her eyes drop to her hooves
“So…”
>”So…”
>You’re both quiet for a second, waiting for the other to say something first
>Finally you decide to take the initiative
“Thanks for the dance. It was a welcome surprise.”
>She kicks a hoof
>”Oh, it’s something I’ve wanted to do with you for a while.”
>Her blush again darkens
>”Not sure if you’ve ever noticed.”
>Thinking back on it, she always did seem to be a little sweet on you
>”Say, we’ve known each other for a while now, right?”
“About as long as I’ve been a caravan guard. So yeah, eight years or so.”
>”Hard to believe it’s been that long. I guess we know each other pretty well at this point, wouldn’t you say?”
“Yeah, I suppose. We don’t talk as much as we used to but that’s the nature of living so far apart.”
>Lemonade continues looking at her hooves while she talks
>”Listen, I don’t normally do this. In fact, I’ve never done this, but…”
>She takes a short breath and looks you in the eye
>”Would you like to come inside for some coffee? You’ll be gone soon, so I figure this is our chance.”
>The subtext is obvious
[Input Needed]

File: 1706218902891.gif (667 KB, 243x255)

667 KB GIF

>>40942534
You need to fuck the horse pussy, Ardie.

bump

>>40942602
But if we're going to, we need to think about whether or not we still want to try to romance Hollow. Dont wanna be a gigolo, or especially get on a bat mares bad side...

>>40943965
Fuck it man. I need Ardie to get laid. Also there better be fucking smut and not just fade to black

>>40944426
Continue the romance with hollow and deal with the consequences later

>>40943965
Well it's not like we've really gone anywhere beyond friends with Hollow yet, we don't even know if she feels anything towards us.

I haven’t written clop since 2014 at the latest, so forgive me if I’m rustier than normal.

>For but a second you consider answering the question
>Instead you step forward, pressing yourself into her
>You feel the tension exit her body as she exhales, her lips parting just enough for you to enter
>She shudders and hums in excitement as she submits to your advances
>It isn’t clean, or courteous
>In fact, it’s the kind of dirty and desperate kiss you’d expect of hormone riddled highschoolers
>And it’s great
>Somewhere behind you a door slams, drawing you back to the real world as you glance behind you
>Nopony stands in the hall
>Probably just a neighbor returning home
>”Well, I’ll get a pot going. Or maybe a bottle ready.”
>You could care less for drinks and again you kiss her
>Pulling apart, she puts a hoof to your chest
>”Let me,” she says between pants, “freshen up real quick. Meanwhile, if you-”
“I’ll hit the pharmacy.”
>For the third or fourth time tonight she gives you a happy, toothy smile before you wordlessly part

>You push through the heavy pharmacy doors, trying to keep your breath under control after your mad gallop from Lemonade’s apartment
>Moving to the right aisle, you make sure to grab a box of Hoplites
>While there were magical means to fixing any potential problems, this was easier

>>40944884
>Walking to the pharmacist, you notice him staring at you blankly, mouth slightly agape
>Were you too obviously desperate?
>He remains staring at you until you loudly clear your throat
>”What? Oh, sorry. That’ll be fifteen bits.”
>You toss the bits down before scooping up the box with your magic and leaving the store and breaking into another mad gallop

>Walking into Lemonade’s apartment you find her standing in the kitchen, seemingly lost in thought as she holds a glass of red wine in hoof
>A familiar stirring rises in your chest as you lock the door behind you and advance on her
>No longer does she wear that simple dress, instead standing before you naked, her damp fur making her all the more desirable
>”Would you like a glass before we…?”
>You nod, peeling away the plastic cover of the rubbers while she pours your own drink
>You take the glass when ready, downing much of the dry fruity drink in a few short gulps
>Nothing like box wine to raise the mood
>Putting the glass down, you again move in on Lemonade, taking her mouth with your tongue
>This time you remain locked with her until you can no longer hold your breath and release her
>There’s no denying your excitement now, seeing as how immediately visible your member stands
>Lemonade takes your hoof in hers and pulls you to the back bedroom, simple white and blue decorated room
>She tries to push you down onto her plush bed but you spin on her, pushing her down gently instead
>Giggling, the earth pony rolls onto her back, rear legs moving apart for your viewing pleasure
>Her tail wags to and fro as you stare at your prize, a glistening pink refugee between her dark chocolate legs
>You place your forelegs to either side of her, your gaze traveling up her body until you meet her pleading eyes
>”So,” she breaths, her gaze wandering down your own body towards your stiff member, “who gets serviced first?”
>She licks her lips
[Input Needed]

>>40944891
Condoms? Oh damn, is this filly in heat?
Anyway, obviously ladies get taken care of first.

bump

>>40944983
>You give her inner thigh a kiss and receive a deep exhale in return
“You’ve wanted this for a while, right?”
>She nods her head as you plant another kiss a few inches lower
“Then I think I’ve kept you waiting long enough.”
>You sit at the foot of the bed and plant a final kiss on her opposite thigh, right where the leg meets the meets the groin before you move onto the main attraction
>Just inches from her lips, the smell of her excitement is inescapable
>Your breath is warm and heavy as you take in her scent, the natural, earthy scent of mare of her tribe
>Your cock twitches in excitement and you move in, working her outer lips with slow licks of your tongue
>Occasionally your tongue darts over her smaller folds, grazing her clitorus
>When you do her hind legs twitch and her breath catches short, her abdominal muscles contracting
>After a few cycles you pick up your pace, burying your muzzle into her as you pull her closer to you with your forehooves
>A deep moan escapes her other lips as you slide your tongue into her
>You explore her insides, making sure not to apply too much pressure as you enjoy your meal
>Her tail swishes against your chest, the long hairs tickling you
>As your tongue darts out for another survey it runs over a small ridge
>”F-fuck!”
>She clamps down around your muzzle briefly and you make sure to bookmark the spot before continuing to explore
>As you work her closer to completion, you dance around the ridge, occasionally giving it teasing little licks
>”Adrie…” she pants as she places one of her forehooves on your head
>She tries to move your head to where she wants but you resist, continuing to tease her
>”Ardie, please…”
>Her breathing becomes more ragged and you focus your efforts on that little ridge
>Immediately her powerful hips buck into your face and she closes her legs around your head
>You pick up your pace, running your tongue both inside her and over her lips in a blitz
>Her clitoris winks against your nose as she rapidly approaches orgasm and you shift your lips, catching the pink button and suck
>”ARDIE~!”
>With that the dam breaks
>Her legs clamp down harder as she sits forward, then arches backward
>The bucking of hips against your face with the leg lock leaves you helpless as you ride her orgasm with her
>You lap at her juices as they rush you, drinking the salty reward
>Eventually the waves subside, freeing you to take the breath you didn’t realize you desperately needed
>Your muzzle and chest are soaked, her juices cling to your fur
>Standing to all fours, you admire your handy work
>Lemonade’s chest rises and falls in quick succession, her eyes staring off into some far distant point in space

>>40945654
>You feel a dribble of precum run from your head down your shaft as your dick twitches
>You leap onto the bed, the motion of which brings Lemonade’s attention to back to you
>”Th-thanks.”
>Standing over her, you lock your lips around hers
>She hums at first before breaking off, still having not caught her breath just yet
>You fall down next to her, rolling onto your back and spreading your own rear legs apart
>Your rod stands at attention, throbs of excitement making you twitch
>You have no illusions about your stamina and expect the next part won’t last long before you move onto the big finale
>Lemonade rolls onto her side and throws a hoof around your chest while staring at your waiting member
>”Glad you enjoyed yourself, but now it’s my turn.”
>She licks herself off your chin twice before locking lips and shoving her tongue into your mouth
>You dick twitches painfully as you taste her juices on her own tongue
>”Now, let's get to it.”
>She shifts her body so that she lays with her head just over your waiting cock
>She grabs you with a hoof and licks the growing bead of pre building on your head before lowering to lick your shaft from head to base and back again
>You can’t help but exhale loudly at the sensation, earning a pleased smile from your partner
>Without much warning Lemonade takes the first couple inches of your cock into her mouth, her lips sealing themselves around your rod
>You have to actively hold yourself back from cumming at the wonderful warmth
>Lemonade keeps her mouth around you as her eyes stare into your own
>Even with a cock in her mouth the look in her eyes can be described as nothing short but cute
>She brings her head up slightly, only holding the very tip of you in her lips before closing her eyes and going down again
>This time she takes another inch into her eager mouth, tongue cradling the underside of your shaft before backing up again
>She bobs her head like this for some time, picking up pace as she takes more and more of you into her mouth
>Some of her mane drops infront of her face, which you push back and hold with a hoof
>As your breath quickens she reaches her tempo, a quick bob reaching from your tip to a little shy of your base
>When her tongue runs over your head you can’t help but buck your hips into her, causing her to make a strange sound that mixes between a gag and a moan, which only fuels your bucking
“Hey, Lemonade, I’m gonna cum in a second here.”
>She hums in response and doubles her efforts, paying more attention to your head than your shaft
>As she brings her tongue around for another lick your constitution fails and you instinctively pull her head into you bucking hips as you unleash your load into her throat
>You thrust into her with every shot, Lemonade moaning loudly around your twitching cock
>Dropping your hold of her, you fall backwards onto the bed

>>40945657
>Lemonade pulls off of you, your cock releasing with a pop as she coughs and pants
>Your heart almost stops as you see her heaving breaths and you feel shame for how you held her down
“Shit, I’m sor-”
>Before you get the words out Lemonade takes your softening dick back into her mouth, making sure to clean you of as much of your cum as she can
>Before letting you go, her tongue runs over your head, cleaning up the last bits of baby batter
>”Don’t be,” she pants after swallowing your load, “I enjoyed it.”
>She lays next to you and you grab her with your hooves, kissing her on the forehead as you both catch your breath
>You stay holding eachother like that for some time, waiting for your stamina to return
>When you were younger you’d have been ready for round two in just a couple minutes, but in your mid thirties it takes a little longer

>Eventually Spiked Lemonade sits up and kisses you on the lips, signaling that she's ready to start again
>You makeout for a moment, letting your desire return to your loins
>Once you’re ready you sit up and grab the condoms from where you placed them on the nightstand
>As you tear the package and apply the rubber Lemonade hugs you from behind
>”You know, my heat shouldn’t be for another couple weeks. If you want to-”
>You shake your head
>Perhaps it was because, one way or another, you’ve been a guard your entire adult life that you couldn’t help but take precautions against any unnecessary risks
“It’s fine. No sense in risking an off schedule estrus cycle.”
>She’s quiet for a moment before sitting up and kissing your horn
>”You always consider everything, don’t you.”
“I try.”
>You feel Lemonade move away from you as you get yourself fitted
>Standing up and turning, you begin to ask
“So, how did you-”
>Lemonade leans forward and rear facing you
>With a flick of her tail she presents herself to you
>”Let’s go with the traditional way, shall we?”
>She winks
>Judging by the way a bead of excitement runs down her thigh there’s no need for anymore foreplay
>You rear back and mount her, using your magic to line yourself up
“Ready?”
>Yu- oh~”
>You slide into her waiting folds
>Her muscles clamp around you as you push forward
>She’s by no means loose, quite the opposite, but with all of her excitement it only takes a few thrusts before you reach your depth, her pussy swallowing you eagerly
>”Fuck, you’re big.”
>A nice complement, but you weren’t much more than average
“And you’re so fucking wet.”
>You feel her clamp down on you

>>40945660
“And tight,” you hiss between clenched teeth as you begin to rhythmically thrust
>After a minute Lemonade joins you, moving her hips a little to increase both of your pleasure
>Soon you both get into a fast rhythm
>Of all the mares you’ve been with, Lemonade seems to be one of the ones that leans closer to the fast and heavy side of than the slow and sensual side of the pleasure scale
>”Give it to me, Artie! Pound me!”
>You don’t need to be told twice
>You grab her by the waist and begin to thrust as fast and deep as you can while maintaining a rhythm
>You breath heavily, thankful for your regular cardio workouts and the stamina your job requires
>Your balls slap against her while your crotch fur is covered in her juices
>Below you, her pace becomes to lose coherence as she begins to loudly mew at your every thrust
>You do everything you can to keep your pace, ignoring the growing burning in your legs as she begins to twitch
>Her pussy holds you in a death grip, trying to milk you of all you’re worth
>With one final thrust Lemonade lets out a throaty moan, splashing your crotch with mare cum
>You stop, letting her ride out her orgasm as you hold her
>You wait a minute for her to catch her breath before resuming your humping at a more leisurely pace
>Not long after her orgasm you finally achieve yours, holding onto her hips as you again shoot load after load before collapsing onto her back

>>40945667
>After catching your own breath you pull out, peeling off your condom and tossing it aside
>Not wanting to leave Lemonade worked up, you help her along to her third orgasm with your magic before hitting the bathroom and tossing the condom into the bin
>When you return you find Lemonade has already fallen asleep under the blankets
>You slide in behind her and wrap your hooves around her waist, joining her in the world of dreams

>In the morning you grab a glass of water for the both of you before having one more round
>This time it’s a straightforward affair
>As you two lay in eachother’s hooves with the first rays of the morning sun breaking through the curtains, you have some pillow talk
>Eventually the conversation steers to your plans for the day
>”So, can you bring a plus one to this ball of yours?”
“Sorry, but I don’t think so. There’s going to be a lot of important ponies so I’m sure security will be tight. Every guest was probably vetted weeks in advance, if I had to guess.”
>She sighs, her hoof playing with your chest fur
“I’d bring you if I could.”
>”Mhmm.”
>She stays silent for a minute before looking you in the eye
>”Did you ever consider transferring to Gate City once you get back?”
>You sigh
“No, I haven’t.”
>She props her head on a hoof, looking into your eyes
>You reflexively look away
>”You should. We could use you here. And we could continue… this.”
>She says the word with a twirl of a hoof
“I don’t know. Golden Spurs might not like that.”
>”But if he was fine, would you? I mean, it’s not like you have any reason to stay in Appleloosa, right?”
[Input Needed]

>>40945671
Woo, good job Ardie. I was half expecting you to make us roll for sexual prowess
"I would have to think about it. My team is there too, we've gotten fairly close."

bump

>>40946396

>>40945851
I thought about it but decided to hold off the first player roll for something other than ERP. Besides, you guys deserved a reward for putting up with my constant delays and it wouldn’t feel right for you guys to just miss twice and cum on her leg.

“I would have to think about it. My team is there too, we've gotten fairly close."
>She sighs and continues to draw lazy circles on your chest
>”I’m sure I could convince Golden to let Barrel transfer, too. Besides, what about your friends here?”
>You take a moment to breathe before answering
“It’s not just Barrel. My team and I have been through a lot, especially this past month and we’ll probably grow closer still. And yes, I know I have some old friends here, but it’s been years since I’ve worked with them.”
>Lemonade pouts a little, her voice soft
>”You still have one close friend here.”
>You don’t answer, instead choosing to just hold her close until she slides out of bed
>She opens her small bedroom curtain, fully letting in the early morning light
>”We should get showered. Falsetto likes her coffee first thing in the morning and I still need to make everypony breakfast.”
“And I should probably get back to the hotel.”
>Reluctantly you roll off the covers and help pull off the bedding for Lemonade to wash later
>The two of you shower together without any horseplay before grabbing your saddlebags and heading out
>You make sure to bring the remaining condoms with you
>Never know when you or a friend might need one
>You walk with her to the Gate City office, chatting idly along the way
>”I’m going to have to swing by the hardware store after breakfast, I think.”
“Why’s that?”
>”If I’m going to hang up your article I’ll need to frame it first.”
“Oh, right. Listen, don’t feel like you have to do that. It’s just something the team wanted to do.”
>”It’s fine. Who knows, maybe it’ll sway some on-the-fence customers.”
>Arriving at the front door you exchange goodbyes
>”If you guys want to do something after your ball feel free to swing by. I’d like to spend some more time with you. All of you.”
“Yeah, I’ll see what’s going on.“
>You wait for her to enter before you head toward your hotel

>You arrive at the hotel just as the morning rush begins
>You suppress a yawn and enter the cafeteria to grab some breakfast and a hot cup of java
>You never did get that coffee Lemonade promised
>You scan the room for a place to sit and spot your companions, sans Hollow, sitting together
>You make your way over, surprising them as you pull up a chair
>”Well, if it isn’t the stallion of the hour,” Soul Mane grins. “Have a good night I take it?”
“Good enough. I’m still pretty tired though.”
>Everyone chuckles at your answer, Soul and Silver more so than Barrel
>”So,” asks Silver, “are you gonna tell us what happened?”
>She leans forward and gives you a mischievous grin
[Input Needed]

>>40947647
Give her a boop and tell her gentlecolts don't kiss and tell.

>>40947775
>You lean your face close to hers and give her nose a boop
>She scrunches and jumps back in her chair at the contact
“Gentlecolts don't kiss and tell.”
>Soul Mane speaks to you as Silver runs her nose
>”So, it went that good, huh? I’m glad for ya.”
>Soul takes a drink of his coffee
>”And here I thought you were interested in Hollow.”
>Hollow
>You weren’t sure where you stood with her, but hopefully last night didn’t send the wrong signal
“Where is Hollow, anyways?”
>”She said she was gonna go to sleep early so that she can get ready for the ball in time,” answers Barrel
>You nod in acknowledgment as you take another bite of your waffle
>”I hope she doesn’t forget our plans,” says Silver, “we were going to get our manes done together.”
>She plays with a blueberry on her plate in idle boredom for a moment as the rest of you eat your breakfasts
>”So, what are you guys doing before the ball?”
>Barrel swallows his mouthful of biscuits and gravy before answering
>”Gonna hit the barber for a mane and mustache trimming.”
>Soul nods in agreement
>”Same here. Well, just the mane, I guess. Gonna hit the post office to send a couple albums home.”
>Soul looks to you
>”So big guy, what are you doing before the ball? Anything”
[Input Needed]

>>40948097
Don't think we have anything planned unless I'm forgetting something again. How's our mane, do we need a cut too?

>>40948337
>You rack your brain for any plans you may have made for today, only for you to turn up open hoofed
>It seems like you have a free day today
>At least until you have to get ready for the ball
>You turn your attention to your mane
>As always it’s a mess
>Of course you could style it before leaving
>But maybe you should get it cut?
>In the front it comes down to just above your eyes, the longest strands tickling your eye lashes
[Input Needed]

>>40948374
Probably a good idea to cut it shorter, both for style and combat reasons.

bumpan

>>40949124

>>40949822

>>40950433

>>40948374
“I’ll join you guys at the barber. Celestia knows I could use a trim.”
>”Alright. We’ll go in a few hours.“
>Together the four of you finish your breakfast and return to your rooms
>In the few hours of private time you have you spend studying your new Earth Sight spell
>Reading through the preamble, it’s made clear that the version you’re currently studying is a simplified, less powerful form of Earth Sight
>It seems the more advanced variant is harder to come by and requires a large source of the user’s own magic to cast
>You can’t recall ever seeing that variant for sale, but figure the basic version is good enough as is
>Just when you get to the stage where you do your test cast of the first spell component you are interrupted by a knock at your door
>Finding your companions ready, you stowaway the scroll and head out

>The barbershop is some fancy joint that Soul picked out
>Its more expensive than most, but the stallion that gives you a trim is clearly an expert in his field
>After your mane is cut to length the barber helps stylize it for you, managing to make your unruly hair submit and become something more presentable
>When everything is said and done you make sure to give him a good tip, which he pockets without looking at
>While you wait for Barrel to finish up, Soul chats with the cute pegasus that trimmed his own mane
>Soul makes sure to bring up the looming ball to her, emphasizing its exclusivity without coming off as too full of himself
>Once your earth pony friend is done you return to the hotel, stopping by the post office for Soul to drop off his albums

>By late afternoon you stand in your mirror adjusting your suit
>Despite having spent the last couple weeks stuffed in your saddlebag, it looks nice on you thanks to a little spell of Soul Mane’s
>Adjusting your jacket a little, you figure it makes sense the old singer would know a spell for getting rid of wrinkles while on tour
>It wasn’t as good as dry cleaning would have been, but it was a hell of a lot quicker
>With a final brush of your mane you step out into the hallway, joining Soul and Barrel, the former fighting with the latter’s tie to look just perfect
>”I don’t think it’ll be a big deal, Soul. Most ponies don’t pay me much mind to begin with.”
>The unicorn grunts in frustration as he reknots the tie for the unknownth time
>”Nonsense, Barrel. This is a real ball, not some Wild West swing dance. You need to look presentable. Heck, maybe you’ll met a cute little mare while you’re there.”
>The unicorn continues to fiddle with the stubborn fabric while you wait
>It takes a few minutes before your fourth joins you

>>40951341
>Stepping out from her doorway, Silver Sleet struts to join you, her head held high
>She wears the same dress as before but now with a pair a matching earrings and necklace, her silver-white mane braided to perfection
>She looked like a graceful feminine beauty as opposed to the excitable tomboy she was
>”Now that’s a mare,” Soul comments while he yet again wraps the tie around Barrel’s neck. “Hey, Silver, are you looking to have some colts to dance with? Cause I think you have a taker.”
>Silver ignores the stallion as she circles around your trio, keeping her head tilted high
>”First,” she says, parodying a thick Canterlot accent, “you shall address me as MISS Sleet. Secondly, how presumptuous to assume I’d ever associate with the likes of you.”
>She rounds on the three of you, tossing her head dramatically and posing, foreleg up
>”Finally, how dare you even address me as an equal when you’re clearly of the working class?”
>She holds the pose for a second before laughing, “so, how’s my fancy talk?”
>Barrel shrugs, “ehh. You got the arrogance down, and the strut. Could work on the accent though.”
>Silver continues to laugh to herself as she slowly turns for you all to see her dress
>”How about the style?”
“You look good, Silver. You’ll definitely give the others a run for their money.”
>She smiles as she does another little turn for you and you catch a whiff of her perfume
>She smells like a rain cloud, with a hit of something sweet
>”Awe, thanks boss. And Soul, I’ll take that dance so long as you teach me the steps. I’ve never been to one of these fancy balls before.”
>”That’s not really something that can be taught in a single dance, you know. Just follow my lead and you’ll be fine. Hopefully the other colts will be as considerate as I am, though I doubt it.”
>While the other three chat you look at the clock
>It’s just about time for you to head for the mansion, but you haven’t seen or heard a whisper from Hollow yet
>Already the stallions from Roughshod are suited up and climbing into the elevator for the ground floor
>You can just faintly hear music coming from her room, so she must be just finishing up
>You decide to give her a few more minutes before you’ll knock, not wanting to upset her by rushing her

>With not a minute to spare Hollow’s door swings open and your heart skips a beat
>She doesn’t wear the scandalous midnight blue dress, rather she wears an elegant gown that you’d expect of nobility
>Her stride is similar to Silver’s, but far more natural and relaxed

>>40951344
>Although it’s nowhere as scandalous or tight as her previous outfit, when she moves the dress shifts in a way that gives hints to her shapely figure, her hips swaying tantalizingly
>Like Silver, she wears jewelry and her mane is done up, but in a loose bun instead of a braid
>As beautiful as Silver was, you think Hollow might just have her beat
>As you scan over her with your eyes you catch her own locking onto yours before shifting away
>You become aware that you’re staring, as are the others
>”Are we gonna get going, or are we just gonna stand around and be late?”

>Security at the mayor’s mansion is tight, as you’d expected
>Both local law enforcement and Royal Guards stand guard, inside and outside the residence
>Twice you have to show ID; once at the doot your cab dropped you off at and once inside the building proper, where a Guardsmare scans you for weapons with her magic
>Once satisfied that you are who you say you are, the deputy at the entrance door to the party proper lets you inside
>Standing where you are, you try to scout out the room
>To your immediate left is a dining room where you see the two press ponies of Fleur’s entourage eating with a pony you don’t recognize
>Directly ahead is the ballroom where a large band plays classical music; ponies of all ages surround the main floor where couples dance in choreographed rhythm
>To the right is a large room full of ponies of the upper levels of society with a table full of hors d’oeuvres and large punch bowls
>Among them you see members of the military, both enlisted and officers alike in dress uniform chat with civilians
>A vaguely familiar stallion in a blue that you’re pretty sure is the representative for the Badlands in Parliament speaks with Flash Fire, both stallions holding glasses of whiskey in hoof
>Some business ponies float about the room, either drifting from one conversation to another or trying to grease hooves with ponies of importance
>Scanning through the crowd you finally find the mare you were looking for
>Fleur speaks with a fat stallion in a black wool suit, who you assume must be the mayor
>Even from a glimpse through a crowded room you can tell that Fleur is a pony of divine elegance
>Her tall, thin frame was complimented by an elegant yet simple white dress with accents of purple, lavender, and yellow
>Her mane is largely unchanged with the simple addition of a crown braid, which suits the occasion just fine
>She holds a martini in her magic and nods along with whatever the old politician is saying to her
>Finally, to your far right is a small open bar where stallions and mares in suits mix drinks for customers

>>40951354
>”Say, Silver,” Soul Mane asks after taking in the sights, “how about I teach you a dance or two real quick. That way once these young bucks start asking you to dance you’ll be free and limber.”
>The pegasus curtsies low and speaks in that over the top accent
>”Why, I think that sounds like a delightful idea, Sir Mane of Soul.”
>Again Silver laughs while the duo makes their way to the floor
>Barrel saunters off to the far right
>”I’m hitting the bar. If you need me I’ll be at the rail.”
>With his departure, you’re left with just yourself and Hollow standing in the entrance
>Glimpsing at Hollow, she seems bored of the festivities already
[Input Needed] [What would you like to do first?]

>>40951361
Ask Hollow
"So, any interest in hitting the dance floor? Would be less boring than standing around avoiding boring small talk, right?"

bump

>>40952209

>>40952987

>>40951627
“So, any interest in hitting the dance floor? Would be less boring than standing around avoiding boring small talk, right?"
>She visibly weighs her options
>”Do you know how to ballroom dance? Properly, I mean.”
“I know a few steps. Attending balls were a part of life as a Royal Guard.”
>She looks you over before giving a small curtsy
>”Then you have my permission.”
>You briefly wonder on Hollow’s sudden formality as you take her hoof and leading her to the floor
>The two of you wait for the current song to end before finding your own starting spot
>Taking your place opposite of her, the band begins a new song
>Immediately Hollow begins to step in time with the music and you try your best to match her
>As you watch your partner, she performs almost flawlessly, as if she’d done this very dance a hundred times before
>As she moves without thinking, she watches you intensely, not out of companionship or enjoyment as you’d hoped but as if she was judging your own ability
[Performance (Charisma) Roll Needed]

Roll a d20+2.
>1-5: You make a fool of yourself
>6-12: You perform adequately, but Hallow is far from impressed
>13-15: Hollow considers your dancing tolerable
>16-20: You keep up with her
>20+: Secret

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>40953838
Come on nat20!

>>40953878
Oh hell yeah

>>40953879

>>40953878
>As the two of you dance, you push all distractions out of your mind and focus on your hoofwork and posture, letting Hollow take the lead for the timing
>As you dance in step together, swinging and spinning about the ballroom, Hollow unexpectedly adds a few new steps to your routine, pushing you out of your comfort zone and into a more complex one
>Her expression remains judgmental as she tests you but you ignore it
>As the song comes to an end you both bow to one another
>The band pauses as they prepare for a new set and most couples evacuate the floor
>But Hollow remains in place as you both catch your breath
>”Have you been practicing lately, or did you really learn all that back in the Royal Guard?”
“No, I really did learn that in the Guard. Last couple days of training is spent learning the galop and a few waltzes.”
>”No way you got that good in a couple days over a decade ago.”
“You’re right,” you admit, “like I said, attending balls are part of Guard life. It’s expected of us.”
>The band begins to take their positions again and new couples join you on the floor
>”I’ll admit, you’re good. A lot better than I’d expected. Most stallions that ask me to dance either can’t keep up or refuse to let me lead.”
>Your conversation stops there as the music resumes
>This time the two of you start with the more advanced steps and move away from the center of the floor towards the faster outer circle
>This time, however, Hollow lets you lead and seems to relax enough to enjoy the dance a little
>As the second dance ends you have a brief chance to resume your conversation before returning to the floor, if you so wish
>Or you could do something else, if you’d prefer
[Input Needed]

>>40954444
Did we get the secret one with 20 or what would it have been? Also nice digits.
"You sure put me to the test, though. How come a pony who seems to hate gatherings like this knows how to dance like that?"

>>40954483
"You sure put me to the test, though. How come a pony who seems to hate gatherings like this knows how to dance like that?"
>”My parents used to make us kids take lessons after school. They thought we’d need to know ballroom dancing if we were to ever have a partner of what they called ‘suitable position’.”
[Input Needed]

Boop

>>40954914
Huh, your parents sound strict. You like dancing though?

>>40956482
I was just about to move on.
“Huh, your parents sound strict. You like dancing though?”
>”Yeah, my parents were pretty strict. Everything is always about status or tradition with them.”
>Hollow visibly tenses up a little as she continues
>”They’d always try to set us up with other Canterlot bat ponies, my dad especially.”
>She slowly exhales, seemingly trying to calm herself
>”But yeah, I like dancing. I’m not really into this old crap but I still like it. I prefer more freestyle kinds of dance normally.”
>As she talks with you, a younger stallion in an ornately decorated suit approaches Hollow
>”Excuse me, but may I have this next dance?”
>Hollow curtsies to the stallion, “you may.”
>She turns back to you
>”Sorry, but I’m sure you know it’s simple etiquette to exchange partners. We can dance in a little while, if I’m free. Besides, it’s important we don’t send any mixed signals.”
>You feel disappointed by this turn of events, but accept the situation
>Returning to the edge of the ballroom you see Soul Mane and Silver go their separate ways, Silver with a handsome young naval officer while Soul joins Barrel in the bar
>You check the clock and see that you still have a couple hours to go
[Input Needed]

>>40956606
Let's go say hi to Fleur.

Also you lurkers, don't just bump, play along! It's more fun with more perspectives.

>>40956810
>You leave the ballroom and enter the room to the immediate right
>Sure enough you spot Fleur in the same spot you saw her last
>As you approach her you notice how seemingly engrossed she is in the story the fat stallion is telling
>You almost decide to wait to talk with her latter when she makes eye contact with you and gives a subtle nod before downing the last few drops of her martini
>”I’m sorry,” she says to the stallion when he pauses his story momentarily, “but I need another drink. If you’d excuse me.”
>The old stallion doesn’t seem offended and steps aside so that the unicorn didn’t have to step around him
>Fleur moves straight for you, her body seemingly weightless as she moves about in her dress
>”Ardent Mind, I’m pleased to see you again. Would you mind accompanying me to the punch bowl?”
“Of course.”
>The two of you move together through the crowd of finely dressed elites
>Several ponies, stallions and mares of all ages, begin to approach Fleur but stop upon seeing you with her
>You wonder if they’re put off by seeing an unfamiliar and clearly commoner face or if they’re simply being polite and letting the two of you have some time together
>As you arrive at the punch bowl Fleur sets down her martini glass on a nearby tray and grabs a stemless wine glass
>”Would you like some punch too? We have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties, if you so wish. Or if you want to hold off, in an hour or so the servants will deliver a bowl of jungle juice, right around the time the band will be doing a short set of swing music.”
“I’m good for the moment, thank you. I’m surprised that there’ll be jungle juice here, seems a little… unbecoming of such a classy party.”
>Fleur fills her glass to about three-fourths of the alcoholic punch before turning to speak with you face to face
>”Yes, you’d be right. But this is a special occasion and the mayor wants to show he’s willing to embrace what the locals call nueva cultura, which is all the rage among Canterlot’s youth.”
>She takes a delicate sip of her drink
>”Now, how are you doing, Mister Ardent Mind? Are you enjoying the party?”
[Input Needed]

>>40957025
"Sure, it's nice to train the old dancing skills. I didn't interrupt an interesting story, did I?"

>>40957117
"Sure, it's nice to train the old dancing skills. I didn't interrupt an interesting story, did I?"
>Fleur chuckles
>”No, not at all. The mayor was just telling me about his son’s upcoming wedding. The engagement story was nice, but I’m not all that interested in the drama surrounding which caterer to hire.”
>She takes another sip of her punch
>”You know, Mister Ardent Mind, we still don't know much about each other. How about you tell me something about yourself?”
“Where do you want me to start?”
>”How about your family? Are you married?”
“My parents passed away a few years ago and I’m not really close with the rest of the family. I haven’t really had time to get married, either.”
>”Oh, I’m sorry to hear that. You seem like a nice stallion; you deserve at least someone special. Are you currently involved with anypony? Or at least interested in them?”
[Input Needed]

>>40957252
"Well... something may be happening with a local colleague, but a bit too early to say whether it's temporary fun or something more."

>>40957526
"Well... something may be happening with a local colleague, but a bit too early to say whether it's temporary fun or something more."
>”Ah, I see. Relationships like that can be… hard.”
>Fleur’s serene mask cracks
>She looks away from you and rubs her leg with another
>Her eyes hold an acute sadness
>”And what do you want it to be?”
[Input Needed]

>>40957598
"To be honest, I'm not sure yet. She lives here and I don't so that could be a challenge for anything serious."

>>40957670
"To be honest, I'm not sure yet. She lives here and I don't so that could be a challenge for anything serious."
>”Work can get in the way of things, can’t it? I know that all too well myself.”
>The former model fixes you with a stern look in her eyes
>”If I were to be so bold as to offer advice it would be this; don’t lead that pony on if you know it’ll never work. For both of your sakes.”
>As Fleur takes another sip of her punch a large Royal Guard, a Master Sergeant you realize, approaches the white mare
>”Miss Fleur, they’re here.”
>Both you and Fleur glance towards the door where four ponies stand
>They’re split between stallions and mares equally and would be unassuming earth ponies if not for one being immediately recognizable to you
>Redheart stands behind the lead mare, the nursing outfit she wore when you last saw her replaced with a plain off the shelf dress
>You could have sworn that she was planning to go to the southern colonies after you’d escorted her to the city
>Perhaps plans had changed?
>Fleur downs the rest of her punch in a very unladylike manner and places the glass on the same tray as the last
>”Right, let’s not keep them waiting then. Are Greenback and the rest ready?”
>”Yes ma’am.”
>Fleur takes a moment to compose herself before turning to you
>”I’m sorry, but there’s something I need to address. I’d like to continue talking to you. Perhaps you and I may dance later tonight? I’d like to see those dancing skills you mentioned.”
>She leaves before you have time to answer and joins the new arrivals at
>Standing alone at the punch line you glance to the bar where you see you friends sitting together at the rail
>Soul Mane looks right at you and eagerly waves a hoof at you before pointing to Barrel, who nurses a beer
>Soul seems upset by something, but whatever it is doesn’t seem too important
>You begin moving toward the pair only to be stopped by a silver maned earth pony
>”Excuse me, I couldn’t help but notice you speaking with Miss Fleur-de-Lis. You’re Ardent Mind, correct? I have a business proposition for you, if you’re interested. I think it’ll be worth your while.”
>You glance from the older stallion to the bar, where Soul holds a leg over Barrel’s should and says something to the old guard
[Input Needed]

>>40957908
We might have a problem to fix, so lets keep it quick.

Bump

>>40959235

>>40958385
>>40958418
“Will it be quick? I might be short on time.”
>”Well, that depends on what you mean by quick. Shouldn’t take more than a few minutes depending on how many questions you have.”
“Could this wait a little while then? I’ll come find you after I deal with whatever it is I need to see to.”
>The stallion thinks for a moment but nodding
>”Sure, go ahead and do what you need to. I’ll be waiting for you here.”
>Thanking the stallion and promising to be right back, you join your friends by the rail
“Hey guys, is everything alright?”
>”Yes.”
>”No.”
>The two exchange glances at each other
>”No, sir, not everything’s alright,” answers Soul. “Barrel here is being a stick in the mud.”
“That’s it? That’s why you called me over here?”
>”It’s nothing to worry about,” Barrel assures you, “I just don’t want to dance or talk with strangers today is all.”
>Soul rolls his eyes, “that is a problem, Barrel. This is a full fledged ball, not some common party. You can’t just sit here in the bar the whole time. Look, there’s pretty mares of all types just waiting to be asked for a dance, you just need to find one you like and ask her.”
>”Soul, I don’t want to. These ponies are too fufu to dance with me anyways. I’m perfectly content with just sitting here and getting free beer. If you or anypony else wants to join me, feel free.”
>This doesn’t seem nearly as important as Soul was making it out to be
>”Come on, Barrel. You’ve gotta do something other than just sit in the open bar. That’s just… sad.”
>Soul looks at you, “come on, Ardie. Tell him.”
[Input Needed]

>>40960709
“Soul, Barrel isn't a teen colt at a school dance, I think he can decide for himself how he wants to spend the evening.”
>”I know that, but it’s still a waste. This isn’t the type of thing ponies like us are typically invited to.”
>Soul puts a hoof on Barrel’s shoulder, “you need to put yourself out there more. And I’m saying that as a friend.”
>”Soul, I appreciate it but stop. I don’t really fit in with this kind of party.”
>Soul starts to argue when you stop him
“Soul, please leave Barrel alone. If he wants to enjoy time mostly alone, let him. Not everypony wants to party like you.”
>Soul grumbles but relents and orders an old fashion
>Despite their disagreement, the two stallions remain sitting together
>You also take the opportunity to order yourself a Hayvanna Libre
>You stay a moment with the two stallions to make sure they don’t return to their argument, satisfied when Soul changes the subject to the less divisive topic of Parliament politics
>From the connecting walkway between the bar and the previous room you spot the pony that wished to speak to you
>Leaving the bar, you join the business stallion
“Sorry about that, I had a small interpersonal conflict to settle. Now, what was it that you wished to talk about?”
>”I’m sorry, but that’s something I wished to talk about in private. You may not know this, but there’s a cigar lounge reserved for such occasions. I’d like to speak to you privately there.”
“And where exactly is this cigar lounge?”
>The stallion lowers his voice
>”It’s located outside the proper party grounds, in a separate wing of the mansion reserved for close friends of the mayor, such as myself.”
>The stallion turns away from you and heads towards the main doorway that separates the party rooms from the rest of the mansion
>”Would you follow me, please?”
[Input Needed]

>>40960782
Seems fishy but lets follow. Is anyone nearby so we can let them know where we'll be?

>>40960792
>You find the situation a little fishy
>Looking over your shoulder, you make eye contact with Soul who you motion to join you
>Soul whispers something to Barrel and joins you
“I’ll be in a private meeting with this stallion for some time. If you, or anypony else needs me, I’ll be in the cigar lounge.”
>Soul nods
>”Alright, I get ya.”
>You turn back to the business pony
“Lead on.”
>The stallion opens the door for you to walk through before leading you down a new hallway
>Royal Guards, not local law enforcement guard the hallway and watch the two of you closely as you make your way to the lounge
>Walking down the hallway you pass a closed door that two large Royal Guards stand outside
[Perception Roll Needed]
(Roll a d20)

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>40960808

>>40960823
Oh snap!

>>40960823
Critical Success!
>As you pass the Guards you can’t help but notice their shift
>The unicorn stallion, without moving his head, watches you with his eyes while the earth pony mare subtly shifts her rear hoof
>Instinctively your shoulder closest to the pair tenses
>But your attention is quickly turned to the muffled conversation behind the door
>”You’d be a fool to turn this down, pony. Both of our people have nothing but to gain from this offer.”
>The voice is harsh and tense
>”Sorry,” a voice you recognize as Fleur’s begins
>In contrast to the other’s tone, Fleur’s is gentle and non confrontational
>”But we can’t accept your terms. The fallout of our deal should it become public-”
>”Is another reason you should accept. We could save a lot of your ponies’ lives together.”
>”Perhaps, but we’ve chosen to pursue what we believe is the better way. A more moral, harmonious way.”
>You hear the dull thump of a hoof stomping on carpet and a voice you vaguely recognize as Redheart’s interject
>”How dare your race preach harmony to us. It’s your people that put us both in this situation. It’s you who is reneging on your promise.”
>The conversation fades as your round a corner
>The business stallion opens a pair of double doors for you to enter through
>Through the doorway is a long, open room with a couple of ponies standing in a far corner whispering to each other
>The windows of this room are cracked open, allowing the light smoke of the room exit while the warm, fresh air of the outside world enter
>The stallion with you lits a cigar before passing one to you
>It’s an expensive variety from the deep south of the colonies, it’s gold band etched with a maple leaf
>Figuring it polite to accept the gift, and wanting to enjoy a nice cigar, you allow the stallion to cut the head for you and lite the foot
>As you both take your first puffs you can’t help but think on what you heard back in the hallway
>”...you know what I mean?”
>You snap back to the stallion, who looks at you expectantly
“Sorry, I was distracted. Say that again.”
>The business pony gives you a toothy smile
>”I was saying these southern cigars sure are nice, aren’t they?”
“Yeah, they’re nice. Real nice.”
>The stallion smiles as you both take another puff
“So, what did you want to talk about?”

>>40960949
>”Right to the point, eh? Good, that’s what I was hoping for.”
>The stallion grabs a business card from his breast pocket, which he passes to you
>”My name’s Clean Cut, and I represent Equestria’s second largest weapon manufacturer. We were wondering if you’d be interested in a sponsorship.”
“A sponsorship? What do you mean?”
>”This trip of Fleur’s is bringing a lot of attention to the Badlands and beyond and even more attention to the ponies that make such places safe to travel, such as yourself. Ponies back home are watching you guards closely, especially what arms and armor you carry.”
>You nod to show you’re following his explanation
>”My company and I want to make it clear that we’re the reliable, professional option for self defense weaponry, you understand. And that means having our weapons photographed with the most famous guards out there.”
“I don’t know if I’d say we’re famous.”
>”Oh, but you are. Not personally, of course. And it’s not like most ponies could name your company or Roughshod, either. But you ARE the most famous guards out there, at least at the moment.”
>You take another puff of the cigar, the cool, woody smoke calming your analytical mind
“So… what? You want us to mention you in interviews or something?”
>The stallion nods
>”That’s part of it, of course. But we also want you to use our new line of polearms. We’ll provide the weapons, you just have to make sure to use them. And of course we’ll pay you upon completion of the voyage, of course. How does five grand sound?”
>You think on the proposal
>It’s an interesting offer, that’s for sure
[Input Needed]

>>40960951
Sounds good, but my team and I'd have to test these weapons before I can agree. Don't want to trust your life to something you've never used before, you know?

>>40961086
“Sounds good, but my team and I'd have to test these weapons before I can agree. Don't want to trust your life to something you've never used before, you know?”
>The stallion smiles
>”Of course, a professional such as yourself needs to know what you’re working with. How about we meet at my office at noon?”
“It’s a plan.”
>The two of you shake hooves and continue to smoke for a few minutes
>There’s no sense in wasting a good cigar
>The two of you chat about mundane things, such as recent sport events and the recent tremors
>From what he tells you, a large geological survey team has been sent to investigate the new phenomenon
>Once your cigars are stubs the two of you make your way back to the proper party grounds
>As you pass the room that holds Fleur and the new arrivals, the door swings open
>”You’re going to regret this,” the lead mare of the Redheart’s group warns Fleur
>Fleur and her assistant as well as the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs follows the group out, closing the door behind them
>”I know I will, but it’s the right decision,” Fleur replies. “I ask that you pass our sincere regrets to your boss.”
>The new ponies shake their head, moreso in disgust than disagreement
>Redheart glances at both you and the other stallion, not a hint of recognition in her eyes
>Fleur seems to suddenly become aware of your presence in the hallway as the new arrivals depart through the front door, leaving the mansion as a whole
>”Oh, Mister Ardent Mind. What are you doing here?”
>”We were having a business meeting,” the stallion answers for you
>”Is that so?”
>Fleur looks from you to the two Royal Guards that now flank her
>”You two are dismissed,” she turns to your new acquaintance, “and I beg your pardon, but may you please excuse us too?”
>The stallion acquiesces, as do Fleur’s assistants and the MoFA rep but the Guards remain at their posts
>”Are you sure, ma’am? You’ll be safer with a personal guard nearby.”
>”Yes, I’m sure. Ardent is the leader of my personal guard, after all.”
>”But he’s a contractor.”
>”And he’s a former Royal Guard.”
>”So was-”
>Fleur raises a hoof, signaling that she’s done with the debate
>The two Guards look at you with clear contempt but leave the two of you alone
>Fleur sighs, her tense shoulders visibly relaxing
“Is there something you wanted to talk about, Fleur?”
>Fleur takes a couple deep breaths before answering
>”Nothing in particular. Just want to walk with somepony who isn’t interested in politics. At least not to the extreme I’ve been dealing with today.”
>Fleur begins to make her way to the ballroom
>”I know it isn’t typically the mare who asks, but would you like to dance with me? It’ll help relax my mind. Otherwise, perhaps you’d like to talk over punch?”
[Input Needed]

>>40961221
Sure, when's the next time we'll get the chance to dance like this after all?

>>40961393
“Sure, when's the next time we'll get the chance to dance like this after all?”
>Fleur gives you what seems to be a genuine smile and the two of you make your way to the floor
>While you wait for the current song to end and the next to begin you scan the floor
>You spot Silver Sleet and one of the Roughshod pegasi dancing together near the center of the floor
>Silver’s face is screwed in concentration while her partner can’t seem to take his eyes off her
>At the back of the room you see Hollow drinking punch as she ignores a pair of eager young stallions trying to chat with her
>When you and Fleur do take the floor the band starts up a slower, more intimate waltz
>The two of you dance close together, only your shared dancing ability preventing you from stepping on each other’s hooves
>Fleur’s technical skills are the best you’ve seen, far beyond your own
>But her heart doesn’t seem to be in it, although she does give you a small, happy smile
>The two of you dance together for several songs and the unicorn’s spirits seem to lift as time goes on
>All the while other ponies of high standing watch you twirl together
>You look for an opportunity to speak with her, but the opportunity to say more than a few words of small talk never presents itself
>At the end of the third song an elderly stallion steps in and asks for Fleur’s permission to dance, which she grants
>As you glance to the clock you’re surprised to see how much time has already passed, with only another hour or so to go before it’d be acceptable to leave
>Looking around the room you consider your options for how to kill the remaining time
>You still haven’t eaten yet, and the smell of freshly cooked food can be smelt coming from the dining hall
>Pretty mares of each of the three major tribes wait eagerly for a new stallion to dance with
>Across the ballroom floor from you you see Silver and Hollow talking to each other
>Silver’s wings stretch out defensively as Hollow says something to her, the bat’s head facing away from you
>Silver’s eyes dart around the room before settling on you
>Hollow continues saying something for a second before she stops and follows her gaze, finding you through the crowd
>Hollow huffs and storms off towards the bar, pushing past a silver maned administrator that tries to offer her his hoof
>Silver glances between the two of you before retreating to the punch line
[Input Needed]

>>40961921
Uh oh. Let's go ask Silver what that was about. Give Hollow a chance to cool down.

bumpa

>>40962664

>>40962052
>Seems like you have another interpersonal problem to handle
>Deciding it best to let Hollow calm down first before talking to her, you follow Silver towards the punch bowl
>By the time you catch up with her several other ponies stand in line behind her
>You try to stand next to her in line, receiving looks of contempt from those waiting behind her
>You rethink your approach and decide to wait for Silver to grab her punch before confronting her, wishing not to appear rude to the local elite
>Once the pegasus mare has her glass you pull her aside to a relatively quiet corner of the room
>Silver’s wings nervously twitch as you talk to her
“I saw you and Hollow talking before she stormed off. What was that all about?”
>”Oh, that wasn’t anything, really.”
>You raise an eyebrow in disbelief
>”Really, it wasn’t. We were just talking about all these stallions that want to dance and then we started talking about skirt chasers and then she got all,” she pauses to think for a word, “well, bitchy when I mentioned you and Lemonade.”
>The young mare gives you a nervous grin
[Input Needed]

>>40964008
And how did a conversation about skirt chasers
turn into a conversation about us?

Boop

>>40964089
>You again raise your eyebrow, this time questionably rather than in disbelief
“And how did a conversation about skirt chasers turn into a conversation about us?”
>Silver’s eyes go wide
>”W-wait! I wasn’t calling you a skirt chaser. It’s just that we started talking about stallions we knew were like that, which obviously lead to Soul Mane and then I realized that I hadn’t told her about your and Lemonade’s little hook up yet, so then I started telling her about what happened at Double Tap’s ‘cause office romance is kinda interesting and I never realized you were such a Casanova but then she started getting all crazy and asking questions.”
>The poor pegasus rambles without breathing
>But you’re more interested in what she’s saying
>Did Hollow have feelings for you?
>Did you want her to?
>Or was there another reason for her reaction
[Input Needed]

>>40964639
Hmm, what kind of questions did she ask, exactly?

bamp

>>40964894
“Hmm, what kind of questions did she ask, exactly?”
>”I-I don’t remember. Not exactly, at least.”
“Just try your best.”
>Silver takes a long drink of her punch before answering
>”At first she just seemed surprised. She asked if you two used to date or had some kind of long distance relationship. I told her I didn’t know about the first part but I knew you two weren’t currently dating. After that she asked if I knew whether or not those kinds of hookups were normal for you or Lemonade and I told her I never even met the lady until last night. Then all of a sudden she started asking about how you treated me.”
“How I treated you? What did she mean? What did you say?”
>”I don’t know. She just asked if we would sit and talk during night watch or if you ever showed interest in my personal life. That’s when she started getting a little .. crazy?”
[Input Needed]

>>40965449
Oh boy, time to go face the music. Dammit horny anons!
Tell Silver we definitely should chat more though, we're trying to get to know all our team members after all.

>>40965658
Sure we haven't given her enough time to cool off?

Boop

>You let out a sigh of exasperation
“Alright, I’ll go talk to her. Hopefully she’s had enough time to cool down.”
>You begin to walk away before turning back to face Silver
“We should chat some more in the future and hopefully for less dramatic reasons. I would like to get to know you more, just like I’d like to know everypony else more.”
>Silver nods before finishing her drink and retreating to the line for the fresh bowl of jungle juice
>You yourself make your way to the bar where Hollow and Barrel sit together at the rail drinking
>Barrel says something to her that you can’t quite catch and she nods her head
[Input Needed]

>>40967449
Approach Hollow.

>>40967462
This but do it slowly to see if we can catch some of the conversation/her mood

>>40967462
Next part is mostly written but I need a d20+2 Perception roll for >>40967685

>1-6: You fail to hear anything of note
>7-13: You catch a small snippet of the conversation
>14-20: You catch a large portion of the conversation

Rolled 4 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>40967762
Does the dice option allow for +? Let's see.

>>40967781
It's not like it's hard math but why bother supporting + n if all it's going to do is append that same "+ n" to the result anyway

Boop

>>40967781
Sorry for the long delay. Work went from zero to one hundred real quick.
>Despite your attempts to eavesdrop on the conversation, the echo of the ballroom music and chatter of the guests drown out the pair’s quiet conversation
>Once you’re standing within comfortable talking distance you clear your throat to make your presence known to the two ponies who both casually turn to face you
>Hollow takes a long sip of her vodka-energy drink mix while her eyes silently judge you
“Sorry to interrupt your conversation, but do you mind if we talked in private?”
>Hollow and Barrel exchange glances, the earth pony shrugging and returning to his beer as the bat gets to her hooves
>”Sure,” she says with what you suspect is forced nonchalance, “just let me get my next drink.”
>While she waits to be served, you look around for a place to have a private conversation and find a small empty table in the back of the barroom
>Once the bartender arrives you order a drink for yourself and the two of you make your way to the back table
>As you sit opposite of each other Hollow stares at you, keeping strong eye contact
>”So, what did you want to talk about?”
[Input Needed]

>>40968001
"According to Silver you seemed upset by something concerning me. Maybe we should talk about that?"

>>40968014
“According to Silver you seemed upset by something concerning me. Maybe we should talk about that?"
>”Upset? I wouldn’t say that. I was just surprised about you and Lemonade. I didn’t think you were that type of guy.”
“That type of guy?”
>”Yeah. I didn’t think you were the hookup type.”
>Her voice is stern as she talks
>”And again, that doesn’t bother me. I just didn’t expect it is all.”
>She takes a long sip of her drink
[Input Needed]

>>40968168
"I wouldn't say I am, normally. It just kind of happened. Some rough jobs lately, plus alcohol and a mare apparently very into me were too strong of a combination."

>>40968168
We didn't expect what happened last night either.

>>40968261
>>40968329
“I wouldn't say I am, normally. We didn't expect what happened last night either, or at least I didn’t. It just kind of happened. Some rough jobs lately, plus alcohol and a mare apparently very into me were too strong of a combination."
>”Just couldn’t resist the temptation, huh?”
>Her response is immediate and snappy
>”I had a coltfriend that was like that. Couldn’t keep his hooves where they belonged.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
>Hollow’s ear flicks and she sits back in her chair a little
>”Yeah, he sucked.”
>She taps her hoof on the table
>”Why did you want to hangout with me? During night watch, I mean. You never did that with Silver, or anypony else as far as I know.”
[Input Needed]

>>40968629
"I'm sorry, but is there a reason I should have resisted her advances? It's not like she was some total stranger.
As for why we hung out, two reasons really. I think you're interesting and wanted to get to know you since you often prefer solitude so much. Secondly cause I do want to hang out with all my team members, just haven't gotten that many chances with Silver yet."

>>40968762
"I'm sorry, but is there a reason I should have resisted her advances? It's not like she was some total stranger.”
>”No, I don’t think there’s a problem with that. What you do with your life is up to you.”
>There’s an edge to her voice
“Right. As for why we hung out, two reasons really. I think you're interesting and wanted to get to know you since you often prefer solitude so much. Secondly cause I do want to hang out with all my team members, just haven't gotten that many chances with Silver yet."
>She continues to watch you before finally breaking eye contact
>”Good, that’s what I figured.”
>She takes another drink before continuing
>”I was just wondering what you saw in me and not her. Good to know it was just timing.”
>Hollow stares at her drink
>”So, anything else you wanted to talk about?”
[Input Needed]

>>40968824
"Were you hoping there was something more to it? Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't mind that, but I guess I'm just slow and didn't realize it at the time."

>>40968853
"Were you hoping there was something more to it? Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't mind that, but I guess I'm just slow and didn't realize it at the time."
>Hollow sits up at your question and her ears swivel towards you
>”I-what? Of course not. You’re my boss; us dating would be inappropriate. I just thought that maybe you saw something special in me.”
>She quickly grabs her drink and gulps down a couple swallows before lowering it just enough to talk, her face obscured by her hoof and glass
>”Besides, there’s the age difference between us.”
>Her ears twitch as she resumes drinking
[Input Needed]

>>40968922
"Way to make me feel old! Seriously though, what makes you think I don't see something special in you?"

>>40969039
"Way to make me feel old!”
>Hollow snorts, holding a hoof to her mouth to stop from spitting
>It seems your outburst caught her off guard with the bonus of mostly breaking the tense atmosphere
>”Sorry, I didn’t mean to call you old. I just meant you’re, well, you know.”
>You chuckle a little and tell her it’s alright
“Seriously though, what makes you think I don't see something special in you?"
>Hollow begins to say something but stops, considering her words
>”I… don’t know the word for it. I don’t mean special in the way that a school teacher says that everypony is special. I meant special as in, not unique, but… different enough to justify treating me different from the rest.”
>The two of you are quiet for a while as you both finish your respective drinks
>”Listen,” Hollow sighs, “just pretend I didn’t act the way I did. If I didn’t know I’d been caught I wouldn’t have admitted to my outburst. Getting emotional like that is pretty damn embarrassing.”
[Input Needed]

>>40969131
"No worries, it happens. I hope we can still keep hanging out though. Find out just how special and different we both are, right?"

>>40969199
"No worries, it happens. I hope we can still keep hanging out though. Find out just how special and different we both are, right?"
>”Yeah, sure. Just don’t go thinking that we’re going to hook up or anything.”
>She says it as if it’s a joke, but her body language remains defensive
>The two of you sit in silence together for a while, just enjoying a break from the party
>After a few minutes Barrel approaches the two of you
>”I’m going to grab some grub if either of you want to join me. I’ll probably head out afterwards, too.”
>Hollow stands up and stretches her wings
>”Sure, I’ll join you. I’ll probably get a few more drinks and head out with you, too.”
>The pair look at you
>You consider your options
>The party will probably last three more hours or so, but most guests will probably leave sometime in the next hour or two
>You could join the pair in the dining room for dinner and drinks, if you wanted
>Otherwise you could dance or maybe find Silver or Soul Mane and do something with them
[Input Needed]

>>40969393
I kind of want to continue our chat with Fleur, but if there's enough time we can go eat with them first.

>>40969531
>You rise from your chair
“Sure, I’ll join you for a quick bite but you guys might have to leave without me. I kind of want to talk with Fleur.”

>Dinner is excellent, though the serving sizes are a little small for your liking
>Your previous conversation with Hollow is seemingly forgotten and the three of you have a relaxed conversation
>Most of the conversation is carried by you while the two more reserved ponies only adding small comments from time to time
>Still, it’s nice
>Hollow seems to have recovered quickly from whatever upset her as well
>Once you have all cleared your plates you excuse yourself while the other two order a couple more drinks before heading out
>You return to the ballroom, spotting Silver clumsily dance to the upbeat swing music with yet another stallion
>From the way she moves you’d guess she’s taken full advantage of the free alcohol
>You also spot Soul Mane dancing with a pretty unicorn of about Hollows age, the old singer keeping up with his young partner, though you can see the growing sweat on his brow
>But it takes a while before you finally spot the pony you were looking for on the periphery of the floor
>Fleur’s swing dancing is amateurish compared to the younger ponies around her and once the current song finishes she makes her way to the exit where you intercept her
>Before you’re within comfortable talking distance she spots you and makes her way towards you
>”It’s nice to see you again, Mister Ardent Mind. I’m sorry if you want to dance, but I need to take a break right now. This swing style of dance takes a lot out of a pony and I need a drink.”
“Actually, I was hoping we could talk some more.”
>Fleur begins to make her way to the punch bowl, giving the large bowl of jungle juice a curious glance as she passes it
>”Oh, of course,” she says as she grabs a new cup and begins to fill it
>You notice a familiar faint hint of pink on her otherwise white coat
>”What did you wish to discuss?”
[Input Needed]

I'm kinda curious what that heated discussion with nurse Redheart was about.

Bump

>>40970441
This and I'd also like to ask her if she knows anything about Clean Cut and hia company.

>>40970441
>>40971463
Noted. I’m going to need someone to roll a d20+1 Charisma check.

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>40971516
Rollin

File: 1690306004516.png (17 KB, 128x128)

17 KB PNG

>>40971536

>>40971538
I have a feeling we'll find out eventually regardless of the results.

“First, I was wondering if you know anything about a stallion named Clean Cut and his company.”
>Fleur thinks for a moment
>”Is he a heavyset green stallion with broad shoulders?”
>You nod
>”Then, yes, I do. He works for a company that mass produces weapons for the military, mostly focused on the Army and Royal Guard. They wanted us to partner with them to promote their new line of civilian grade weapons. They wanted to help pay for this trip in exchange for us giving them our official seals of approval.”
>She hums to herself in thought for a moment
>”Even though we turned down their offer, I remember Kickback saying they were a pretty trustworthy company. Why, did he try selling you something?”
>With no clear reason to lie, you decide to answer her honestly
“Kinda. He wants me to consider using his company’s new civilian grade pole arms while I’m escorting you and for me to promote them when interviewed. I’ll be doing a test with them before deciding tomorrow morning.”
>Fleur nods
>”That’d be wise. I own a couple of their fencing swords and a rapier but I’ve never actually used them outside of sport. If you agree to the sponsorship, just remember that you only speak for yourself and not the Project.”
“Of course. I also wanted to ask you about your earlier conversation with Nurse Redheart. It seemed pretty heated.”
>Fleur gives you a strange look that you can’t quite decipher
>”Nurse Redheart? How much did you hear?”
“Enough to know that it didn’t go well.”
>”You know,” Fleur scorns, “you shouldn’t be listening in on my private conversations. You could-“
>You step in, quickly cutting her off
“Sorry, ma’am. But I didn’t go out of my way to eavesdrop. It’s just that when I passed your door the conversation had become so loud that I couldn’t help but hear.”
>Fleur studies you for a moment, seemingly unsure as to whether believe you or not
>”Even so, I ask that ignore such conversations in the future. I deal with a lot of private information that is private for a reason.”
>Her voice softens, returning to normal
>”Besides, we weren’t talking about much. The group that came in is a part of special interest group interested in what we’re doing here in the Badlands. I assure you they are not of any concern. I don’t know exactly what you heard, but before your mind runs wild, they are not involved with the southern outlaws. Redheart has been an acquaintance of mine for a long time and I can assure you that she’d never help such a group.”
>No it’s your turn to look at her with suspicion
>The business mare remains stoic, her face and body language calm
>”So, is there anything else you’d like to discuss?”
>Her voice has already resumed its natural polite levity
[Input Needed]

>>40971884
Well, I don't think trying to pry more would help at this point. What's next for her after the ball?

>>40972113
“What’s next for you after the ball?”
>”I’ll most likely go straight to bed, although I may finish some paperwork beforehoof. Why? Did you need something?”
[Input Needed]

>>40972174
Oh I meant like, tomorrow and after.
Actually other than testing those weapons, I'm not sure what our plan is next, either?

>>40972210
“Oh I meant like, tomorrow and after.”
>”I’m sorry for misunderstanding. Tomorrow I only work for half the day, or at least that’s the plan. The day after we’ll be heading back onto the trail.”
>Fleur begins to finish off the last of her punch when Barrel, Hollow, and a tipsy Silver approach you
>”Hey, boss,” Barrel begins, “we’re heading out. Might swing by the office or Double Taps for a little while before heading home. You’re free to join us if you want.”
>Barrel gives Fleur a polite bow
>”Thank you for inviting us Miss Fleur, it’s been nice. If you’d like to join us you’re more than welcome, otherwise we’ll see you soon.”
>Fleur curtsies back
>”Thank you for coming, it was my honor. I’ll have to take a raincheck on your offer, however.”
>Barrel nods along and turns back to you
>”What about you, boss? What are you doing the rest of the night?”
>You glance to the clock and see it’s getting late, with about an hour or to go before the party would officially be over
[Input Needed]

>>40972376
Sure, let's join the gang, Lemonade invited us over after all. Where's Soul?

boomp

>>40972376
I wonder if Fluer knows if Redheart already left, I would've liked to ask her about how her group was settling in down south.

>>40972979

>>40974161

>>40975015

“Sure, just one second. Fleur, do you know if Redheart already left?”
>”I’m certain they have. They’ll probably even leave the city come tomorrow morning.”
“That’s a shame. I would've liked to ask her about how her group was settling in down south. Well, thank you for answering my questions and for the dances earlier. It’s been a pleasure.”
>”The pleasure’s all mine,” Fleur smiles, “enjoy your last day off. It’ll be a while before you have another one.”
>As you join your team heading to the door, you notice a certain purple unicorn is missing
“Where’s Soul?”
>”He’s dancing still,” answers Silver, who’s pink cheeks and slightly slurred words betray her intoxication
>”But he’ll be joining us at the office,” adds Barrel, “or so he says.”

>There’s a small rumble beneath your hooves as you wait for somepony to unlock the door to the Gate City office
>You can hear ponies chatting and laughing inside, and the bright light sneaking out between the blinds assures you that you won’t be intruding on anypony’s rest time
>Hollow slams her hoof on the door again, trying to be heard over the sounds of ponies laughing
>”Open up! It’s freezing out here!”
>The jump from the hot ballroom to the cool night air was exaggerated by your lack of clothes, which you left at your hotel to avoid damaging
>The door finally swings open and a confused Lemonade stands on the the other side
>She remains only confused for a moment, smiling when she sees the rest of you standing behind Hollow
>”You guys made it!”
“Sure did.”
>Lemonade turns her attention to Hollow and juts out a hoof
>”You must be Hollow Honor. It’s nice to meet you.”
>”Same,” Hollow answers as the pair shake hooves
>”You guys showed up at the right time. We just opened a new bottle of whiskey and were thinking of playing some drinking games, depending on if you were gonna join us.”
>Lemonade leads you into the back living room, where the local guards drink and party
>After exchanging greetings with new faces and banter with old friends you begin to settle in
>Like all guards in their free time, the Gate City crew drinks copious amounts of alcohol, each pony keeping a red plastic cup nearby
>They aren’t stingy with their alcohol, either, offering all of you various ciders and mixed drinks, which you all accept
>As Lemonade had promised, there’s a brand new pool table in the back of the room where Barrel and some of the locals begin a small tournament
>Meanwhile, Hollow, Silver, and the other younger guards sit together as a young stallion breaks out a deck of playing cards
>Chatter crosses between the two groups as they both comment on each other’s games
>”I’ll fetch you a drink,” offers Lemonade, “after all, mixed drinks are my special talent. Do you want any drink in particular, and how hard do you plan on drinking tonight anyways?”
[Input Needed]

>>40975620
I guess that depends on those drinking games and how well I do! As for the drink, surprise me.

>>40975768
“I guess that depends on those drinking games and how well I do! As for the drink, surprise me.”
>”Will do! Go ahead and save me a spot at the table.”
>You find a spot for the both of you next to Silver with Hollow on the other side of the pegasus
“So, what are we playing?”
>”Wheels on the cart to start,” answers the stallion with the cards, “and then we’ll move onto King’s Cup.”
>”King’s Cup?” Hollow asks, rolling her eyes when the stallion nods his head. “Ugh, reminds me of highschool.”
>”Have something against King’s Cup?” asks one of the stallions closer to your own age
>”No, it just reminds me of sneaking wine in my friends’ basements.”
>You feel a tap on your shoulder and find Lemonade standing above you, holding out your drink
“What is it?” you ask as you take it in your magic
>”Dark ‘n Stormy,” she answers as she grabs her own drink and lays down next to you. ”I made myself a Long Island.”
>As Lemonade makes herself comfortable the stallion tosses out four cards for each of you and the game begins
>Despite your efforts, you fail to correctly guess even once, having to finish your drink without much chance to enjoy it
>Thankfully you’re not the only one and soon Lemonade gets up to make everyone new drinks
>As you wait for her to finish and the dealer begins to pass out cards for your next game everypony breaks into small conversations, which you bounce between
>Overall you get the sense that this branch of Steady Stride isn’t much different than the original Appleloosa branch, just a little younger
>The stallions lay it on thick with your female companions, and although both flirt back you doubt that anything will happen between them
>Eventually Lemonade returns and the next game begins
>You perform much better in King’s Cup, probably because it is actually skills based to a degree and thankfully you, nor any of your friends, have to drink the mixed cup in the center
>Although you eat just a little before the games began you begin to really feel it after the first game, but you willingly join in on the second game
>True to his word, Soul Mane eventually shows up just in time to join you at the table, sitting with the locals across from you
>He still wears his suit, which is disheveled and reeks of sweat, perfume, and whiskey
>”Geeze, Soul,” giggles Silver, “did you save some poontang for the rest of us?”
>The very drunk pegasus laughs and rolls back and forth between you and Hollow, as if she said the funniest joke in the world
>Soul gives a toothy grin, “no, I didn’t. And if I did, a gentlecolt doesn’t kiss and tell. Isn’t that right captain?”
>Soul smiles at you as his eyes dart between you and Lemonade
“Right.”

>>40976163
>Lemonade laughs and lays her head against you as one filly begins a waterfall
>Once the last pony is done drinking she looks at you
>”So, I’m guessing you’re the colt that’s got our cookie all bubbly?”
>Before you can answer Lemonade answers
>”Oh, hush Croquette. We’re old friends,” Lemonade kisses you on the cheek, “and I can’t help it if he’s cute.”
>You feel the heat in your already blushing cheeks intensify
>Most of the ponies in the circle either cuckle or don’t react, although you can’t help but notice Hollow staring at you
>When you make eye contact she breaks it, whispering something to Silver who laughs
“Something funny?”
>”Yes,” the pegasus answers, “and I’m not telling you.”
>You prepare to say something when Lemonade draws a card and the game continues

>Eventually the game ends and the group dissolves into a bunch of small conversations
>As you get up to hit the head you can’t help but wobble to your hooves
>Your companions don’t fair much better, not even Barrel who sways as he takes another shot of mezcal
>Once you return to the party you find the various members of the local crew heading to bed, a mare and stallion exchanging obvious glances as they stomp into a room
>”Shiiit,” groans Silver and she catches herself from falling with a wing, “I’m FUCKED.”
>Soul pushes under her wing to stabilize her
>”Whoa, filly. How about we make our way back to the hotel.”
>”I’ll join ya,” says Barrel
>”Yeah, this party’s dead,” adds Hollow, “I’ll head back to.”
>Without shame Hollow grabs a newly opened bottle of vodka and stuffs it under a leathery wing
>”Hey, boss,” she says to you, “I’m gonna listen to some old bangers, if you want to join.”
>She looks to Lemonade, who has again taken her place leaning into you
>”Oh, sorry. You two probably want time together.”
>Lemonade giggles and nuzzles against you before asking, “I don’t know, I’m pretty drunk. But hell, did you want to claim that coffee I owe you, Ardie?”
[Input Needed]

>>40976218
Welp, I'm gonna let the anons who wanted to bang Lemonade get us out of this one without spaghetti. I'd vote for going with Hollow.

>>40976218
Ardent smiles and nuzzle Lemonade back''I would rather want to claim your debt when you're more lucid and sober Lemonade, so you won't feel like I'm taking advantage of you after all I care about you a lot and want what we have now to become something special''!

>>40976482
Go for hollow. (Fuck my moment of horniness destroyed this path)

>>40977178
Looks like >>40976968 is trying to make lock us in with Lemonade.

>>40976968
Yeah, not this. Not in front of Hollow ffs. Using her and our drunkenness as an excuse to not do it is fine but not that last part.

Boop

“As fun as that sounds, I think we’re both a little too drunk for that kind of decision. We can talk about it when we’re more lucid and sober Lemonade.”
>Lemonade stops nuzzling your next to look at you
>”Oh,” the disappointment in her voice is mild but still present
“Besides, I don’t want you to feel like I'm taking advantage of you.”
>Lemonade gives you a small smile
>”You’re such a gentlecolt,” she taps your horn with a hoof, “but you still overthink things too much.”
>Lemonade gives you a final kiss on the cheek and the two of you part ways
>Once you’re a full block away from the office Soul Mane walks alongside you, dragging a stumbling Silver with him
>”You know, Ardent, I don’t think I could have done what you did. Takes some real self control to turn down free sex.”
>”I’m guessing you’ve never turned down any mare,” asks Hollow, “have you?”
>Soul laughs, “only once. There was this pretty little thing when I was on tour that wanted to try a threesome with my buddy, and I don’t do that kind of thing. Two mares? Love it. Two stallions? I don’t care how much space is between us, it ain’t happening.”
>Silver mumbles something before stumbling away from Soul and throwing up in the way of your other two friends
>”FUCKING!” Silver shouts shakily, “CHAMPION!”
>Soul begins to cast a spell before thinking better of it
>”Alright, Silver. Let’s get you home before you do that again.”
>”Do what? Oh, that. Hey, dontcha have spell for this.”
>”Not really, and even if I did I’m too drunk to spell cast safely.”
>Again sliding under one of her limp wings, Soul helps the young guard hobble along

>”Good night,” Barrel lazily waves a hoof at the rest of you as he disappears into his room
>Silver mumbles something that sounds similar back at the stallion as you fumble with her hotel room key, finally sliding into the slot on the fourth attempt

>>40978356
>With Soul’s help you toss her onto the large bed in the middle of the room and she immediately curls under the covers
>”I’ll get her a cup of water,” Soul volunteers
“Are you sure it’s a good idea to leave her alone like this?”
>”On second thought, probably not. Tell you what, I’ll sleep on the chair, that way I’ll wake up if she needs anything.”
>”Not gonna kiss her or anything, right?”
>Soul gives Hollow a distraught look
>”No, I’d never. Are you making a joke? I’d never take advantage of somepony, especially a friend when they’re like this.”
>”Good.”
>Hollow’s answer is curt and serious and leaves the room tense
>The two stare at each other, one hurt and the other cold
>Silver suddenly bolts upright, cutting the tension
>”Wait, Hollow. I’ve got something for you.”
>The pegasus rummages through her bedside saddlebag, pulling out one of the pink and green dragon fruits
>”It’s a passion fruit. I thought you’d like one.”
>Hollow takes the strange fruit with her free wing, examining it closely
>”Thanks, Silver. I’ll probably have it as a snack tonight.”
>Silver makes a pleased sound and lays back down, falling asleep instantly
>”Welp, I’m going back to my room. Feel free to join me, if you want.”
>As you go to follow you catch Soul’s eyes on you
“Something wrong?”
>”Nothing. Just thinking about some things. You two have fun.”
>You stay put, sensing he has something else to say
>”Hey, Ardie. You don’t think I’m a pervert, do you?”
“Horny? Yeah, sure. But no, I don’t think you’re a pervert. At least that’s what I believe.”
>Soul seems relieved by your quick and honest answer, but only a little
>”Alright, good to hear. You should probably catch up with Hollow now, before she locks you out.”
>You nod and close the door behind you as you make your way across the hall to Hollow’s room
>It’s dark, and inside you see the bat slide her new bottle of vodka into a saddlebag before taking a deep drink of water from a cup on the nightstand
>”Decided to join me, huh?”
“Yeah, I figured it isn’t too different from our normal fireside chats. We’ve even talked about music before so this really isn’t that different at all.”
>Hollow nods along as you talk and grabs a vinyl record from its sleeve and places it on one of the hotel’s gramophones
>As the record begins Hollow closes her eyes and turns her ears towards the horn
>You immediately recognize the song as one from your teen years and are stuck by a wave of old memories

>>40978358
>Hollow sways in rhythm with the tune, silently mouthing the vocals when they start
>As the song plays she begins to dance and sing with the record, eyes still closed
>Unlike her practiced movements at the ball, Hollow sways and moves at impulse
>Once the chorus hits she spins away from the record player and cuts loose, spinning, hopping, and kicking legs about the place
>Hollow had acted more social than normal at the ball, and even more so during the three rounds of drinking games, but you’ve never seen her like this
>Rather than reserved and quiet, she behaves like a schoolfilly, acting as if she hadn’t a care in the world as she tosses her carefully styled mane loose
>Watching her makes your heart beat funny and you’re torn between just watching her and joining in
[Input Needed] [If you join, roll a d20+2 Charisma check.]

Rolled 7 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>40978359
Drunken dancing go!

If things happen to start getting heated, let's not be a hypocrite. Tell her the same thing we told Lemonade.

bump

>>40978358
Come on let's go dance with her and show her our sweet silk moves ooh ooh y'all!

>>40979061

>>40979818

>>40980609

>>40978522
>>40979342
>Hollow bounces on her hooves and rocks her head to and fro
>Between messy strands of mane she finally opens her eyes and looks at you
>Her easy smile stops your heart for a second and it’s all you need to join her
>More than ever you feel the alcohol course through your veins as you start dancing with her
>You aren’t great by any means and you make a complete fool of yourself
>But it’s fun and Hollow laughs at your fumbling foxtrot
>Round and round the room you dance together as song after nostalgic song plays
>Before too long you become exhausted, which combined with your intoxication causes you to trip over your own hoof and tumble into Hollow, taking you both down
>You give Hollow a quick apology that she laughs off
>You giggle with her and the world starts to spin as you stare at the ceiling together
“Thanks for,” you pant, “that dance.”
>Hollow giggles and rolls against you
>”Yeah, sure. Don’t mention it.”
>Your skin feels electric as you feel her warm body inch closer to you, almost nuzzling you
>You remain staring at the ceiling until you become dizzy as you wait for her to make some kind of mover, romantic or otherwise
>Just under the sound of the music you can hear Hollow’s soft breathing in your ear
“Hollow…”
>You carefully turn on your side to face her only to find her already deep in sleep
>She breaths softly against your coat and you can’t help but find her disheveled form beautiful
>Taking a quick glance at the clock you see it’s past one thirty in the morning and sun up is scheduled for seven thirty
[Input Needed]

>>40981274
Carefully move her over to her bed. Doesn't matter if it takes a while, we just can't drop her.

>>40981274
Cute. Lift the mare to bed, turn off the music and then let's head to our own room.

>>40981274
Alright let's take her back to her hotel room, carefully place her in her bed, and give her a goodnight kiss on the cheek before we head back to our room!

>You lay there for a second just watching her breathe before you carefully roll onto your hooves
>With the help of your magic you carefully lift her off the floor and gently place her on her bed
>She stirs slightly but otherwise remains fast asleep
>Stealthily you plant a small kiss on her cheek, something you probably would never do under the circumstances if you were sober
>Thankfully she doesn’t wake up, not even when you turn off the gramophone and open the door to leave
>Finally returning to your bed for the first time since the other morning you slide into bed and fall asleep after making sure you had a glass of water at the ready

>Morning comes far, far too early and you pay dearly for last night’s drinking
>Pounding alcohol remained as easy as ever, but the morning after was always rough now
“I’m not even old…”
>Ignoring your swimming vision and pounding headache you prepare for your early morning weapons test
>Brushing your teeth and mane you leave your room to gather your companions
>To your surprise Barrel is not only already awake but seemingly already over his own hangover
>Likewise your bat companion sits in her room listening to a different album than what you danced to just a few hours before
>She seems a little more aloof than normal, even for her, but she grabs her saddlebags to join the rest of the group at the weapon testing site
>Soul’s room gives no answer to your knocking so you move onto Silver’s room, assuming he’ll still be there
>Sure enough he is, although he’s clearly just awoken and still stinks from the night before
>”Mor-“ he yawns, “ning boss. Heck of a night.”
“Sure was. How’s Silver fairing?”
>”Good now. She threw up a couple times last night but I think she got everything out. She’s still a little rough though, at least for the couple seconds she was awake while I was opening the door for you.”
>You step into the room and gently wake the poor pegasus
“Hey, Silver. Are you alright? We have a weapons test to do.”
>The pegasus groans and keeps her eyes screwed shut
>Her breathing is shaky and labored
>”I feel bad.”
“Well, you were drunk before we even got to the office last night. It’s definitely the most I’ve seen you put down in one night.”
>”And you drank about half of their tequila,” adds Barrel
>Silver throws her hooves against her ears and gags
>”Ugh, don’t say that word.”
>She whimpers and pulls the covers over her head
>”Hey, Ardie?” Soul asks, “maybe we should just Silver rest. I don’t think she’ll be in any shape to be testing weapons even if we can get her to keep some food down.”
>”I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Barrel interjects, “we’re testing pole arms, right? Silver uses spears. Her input is going to be needed, especially if she’s to carry a pair of them with her.”
>Silver moves under the blankets but doesn’t come out, unwilling to let the light and sound of the outside world in
[Input Needed]

>>40981354
She should still come with us to have a look, but she doesn't have to do anything too rigorous.

>>40981354
Any spells that can help speed up her recovery?

>>40981359
>>40981422
“Barrel’s right. Soul, do you have any magic that can help speed up her recovery?”
>”I could cast a general healing spell on her. It’ll help some but it won’t fix everything.”
“Go ahead and do it. She needs to come along to at least have a look, even if she doesn’t do anything too rigorous.”
>Soul casts the spell on Silver, who’s hangover resides enough for her to get into the shower and wash up with Hollow’s help
>Meanwhile, Soul takes his own shower while you and Barrel fetch a quick breakfast for everyone
>Eventually your other companions join you for breakfast, Silver wearing a pair of mirrored aviators and keeping her ears laid against her skull

>”So, what do you think?”
>Standing in a target range on the outskirts of Gate City you behold a large weapon rack
>Tridents, halberds, war hammers, and spears of various sorts glisten in the sun while Clean Cut waits for your response
“They look good but I’m more concerned with how they handle.”
>”Then go ahead and grab whatever you want and test them however you want. We’ve got dummies, targets, various armor samples, whatever you want to test our products against.”
>You step forward and grab one of the halberds with a hoof, weighing the weapon and checking over its craftsman
>The shaft and head are surprisingly lightweight and you can’t find any major flaws or blemishes

>>40981597
>However, the balance is slightly off, with the center of gravity a little to far forward for your liking
>You also spot what you’re pretty sure is a filed down seam along the rear of the axe head, which isn’t totally unexpected of a mass manufactured weapon
>Snapping the shaft into its holder on your new scale mail armor and trot to where the dummies are lined up
>You instruct Silver to do the same with one of the pegasus spears while the others perform their own inspections of the various weapons, although they won’t be testing them against any targets
>You give a few test thrusts and swings to get used to the weight of the weapon before striking any dummies
>Over half an hour or so you thrust, slash and hack at various dummies dressed in various armors
>The halberd gives results similar to what you’d expect of your own, breaking through steel plate with enough effort and cracking replicated Changling chitin with a single solid hit
>You also test swinging the pole arm while holding it in your hooves and while using just your magic as well, finding it slightly more awkward than normal
>Once you’re finished with your test you check over the shaft and head for any damage or chipping
>You do find the head to be suffering some early dulling earlier than you’d expect but it otherwise holds up
>A little ways away Silver performs her own tests with a spear, although she doesn’t put the instrument through as rigorous a test as you do
>She does however try flying with a pair of spears, even air launching one at a distant target and missing by a mile
>Once you both finish your tests you convene with your team mates, who report that same small blemishes that you yourself found
>Overall, the weapons seem to be a slight downgrade in terms of durability and would need more regular maintenance than normal
>They also seem to handle comparatively poorly when thrown, though that shouldn’t be a problem with your halberd
>”So, what do you think? Carry our weapons and use them if you have to in exchange for five thousand bits? Heck, if everything goes well we might even make this a full time sponsorship for you. That’s come with regular pay, of course.”
>As you and your team debate the deal you hear a dull crack from further down the range
>A petite earth mare fires a modified Maretini-Whiney from a bench, the weapon’s furniture reduced to the barest necessities in what you assume is an effort to reduce weight
>Silver and Barrel watch the mare load and fire the rifle once again
>”That one of yours?” Barrel asks
>Clean Cut nods, “yes, sir. They’re a slightly scaled down and lighter weight version of the typical Maretini. We plan on rolling them out for the military next quarter as a pegasus’ rifle and as a mare’s gun for the civilian sector.”

>>40981599
>Barrel nods and continues to watch the mare work while Silver never once turns her attention away from the gun, her face focused behind her shades
>”So,” Clean Cut asks again, “what do you say?”
[Input Needed]

>>40981604
I think we can deal with it. Though maybe Silver should carry her old spear too for throwing purposes, if she wants to fly with two like that.

>>40981621
>You jut out a hoof to the stallion
“It’s a deal.”
>Clean Cut smiles and takes your hoof
>”Welcome to the team.”

>It takes a couple of hours for you to get through all of the paperwork but once everything is said and done you receive your free new weapons
>Clean Cut grabs a gilded humidor from his desk and offers each of you a cigar
>You and Soul are both quick to accept but Barrel shakes his head when offered
>”Sorry, but I don’t smoke. Critters can smell that stuff from a mile away.”
>Clean Cut raises an eyebrow but moves on to your two mares, both of whom turn down the offering as well
>The businesspony shrugs and wishes you all the best of luck and safe travels
>As your group makes its way back to the city center Soul asks an important question
>”So, did anypony want to do any last minute shopping or anything before we head back onto the trail tomorrow?”
>Everyone looks at each other before looking at you
[Input Needed]