File: 3444757.png (250 KB, 2585x3667)

250 KB PNG

>>41501534
Hugging waifu even in the deepest moments

>>41501534
Are that glass and straw deliberately drawn so comically large?

>>41501557
Especially in the deepest moment. That's when she needs it the most.

File: 7066772__safe_imported+fr(...).png (625 KB, 2531x3450)

625 KB PNG

>we're getting another hurricane, possibly a third one after that
At least it didn't affect Mare Fair

File: full.jpg (85 KB, 1003x991)

85 KB JPG

Any derp fics? I Need her so much I need ditzy do I need muffjn

File: 40446 - Artist Moe Landsc(...).png (1.94 MB, 1600x1000)

1.94 MB PNG

I dream of a place where I can find love and harmony. I dream of a place with creatures more kind and generous than where I find myself in. I dream of a place where my efforts matter and have in impact on those I love. I dream of a place where love is not a weakness, but a strength. I dream taking care of those in need, and me being taken care of in return. I dream of home. I dream of Equestria. I hope that one day I can go there.

File: 0b668a3b7dc06978ff7e39378(...).jpg (104 KB, 700x529)

104 KB JPG

>>41502970
>I dream of home.

>>41502970
>I hope that one day I can go there.
I'm sure you will, anon. We all will.

File: 1557194104718.gif (1.38 MB, 556x307)

1.38 MB GIF

>>41502970
We'll meet you there anon, soon or later.

>>41501575
She's a small mare
u u u u

File: 7030855__safe_artist-colo(...).jpg (672 KB, 2209x2048)

672 KB JPG

Mare in the rain.

>>41504701
wet mare smell
imagine

>>41501534
Absolutely based OP pic

>>41505535
A language barrier of a different kind.

>>41501534
Is she horny? She looks horny.

>>41506232
like the smell before it rains

>>41506509
Or scaroused because you ordered a piece of meat.

>>41504355
What if the green dots in the crowd were actually anons?

܂>>41482213
>Firefly is sturdy
So is #deca.mare's proxy. Sky will be surprised by the force of Firefly's hugs!
>he could've made it a lot harder for me if he wanted to
I was expecting him to invite Anon and #deca.mare back after about half an hour.
>you haven't taken a look either
That's a first!
>it is a private matter between the two
Is it really that private? For this long?
>waits for a couple of moments
She quickly evaluates all possible scenarios and what would Anon's response be and how the game would end if she makes certain moves. That takes a couple of moments.
>It is all I can disclose
Confirmed my previous comment.
>how many games of chess #deca.mare could have played during these seconds
She plays 5D Chess With Multiverse Time Travel meanwhile and tries to keep one branch the same as the board between her and Anon. Yes it is a real game.
>I would have to know what they are discussing
Ask Harmony to evaluate.
>ask Harmony
Bingo.
>I fail to see how this suggestion is anything but prying with indirect means
Isn't she tries to get Anon back to the cryo pod quicker?
>you are not the mare of his dreams
Neither is #deca's proxy. That must be a bit awkward.
>add it to the recap list
And never bring it up again. This filler scene is longer than needed for sure.
>it was also... unpleasant to experience
At least he didn't go for the balls!
>judge you and your actions
Or #deca's actions. She is the one who came up with the core idea of this whole world!
>Hello again, Anon
I wonder how many times will they mess up calling Anon as Star when he is using his proxy.
>Provided you agree to some conditions.
Déjà vu.
>covered a lot of the basics
Seems like he did.
>You owe me a tussle
Same as what Sky did. Testing the waters immediately.
>but I think in this case
Just tell her that #deca.mare's proxy is much stronger than any pegasi one. Its not a lie. One small misjudgment and bad things happen.
>You're right. She is overprotective.
Firefly is working with barely any knowledge.
>I'll do it.
Firefly's mental gymnastic is award winning.

Thanks for the update!

File: drunk Coco.jpg (172 KB, 900x826)

172 KB JPG

>>41507386
Will she make an obvious joke about meat or is she going to need to down that enormous glass of "juice" first to get to that?

File: 1706896770119843.png (1.65 MB, 5990x8301)

1.65 MB PNG

>>41509363
>"Hey Anon, fancy MEATing you here."

>>41509384
Next thing she'll ask is whether the dinner was meating your expectations.

>>41509573
she keeps that up she's going to end up in a beef with someone

>>41502970
>two anons, one feel
Me, too.

>>41510439
she just wants to steak a claim on your heart

>>41510486
It will be a real treat.

File: 1727842184925690.png (158 KB, 768x1024)

158 KB PNG

Big ancient nordic mare.

File: 1686647248217.jpg (658 KB, 1599x1100)

658 KB JPG

ice salad mare

>>41506509
No, she's an earth pony.

File: 455512.png (473 KB, 1280x1027)

473 KB PNG

>>41512965
lmao

File: 250.png (373 KB, 2109x1758)

373 KB PNG

>>41501534

File: 1380797__safe_artist-colo(...).png (499 KB, 797x821)

499 KB PNG

mare

>>41515326
Flexible bird mare.

File: 1348969.png (189 KB, 736x492)

189 KB PNG

>>41515326
bird pone

>>41515661
She's miffed because she knows he's right.

There isn't enough fluttershy x anon art, the rest of the mane 6 seems to have a lot more.

File: 1598261232566.png (2.71 MB, 2861x3668)

2.71 MB PNG

>>41516553
Took inventory of my folders just for comparison.
>Applejack: 29
>Pinkie: 16
>Dash: 41
>Rarity: 11
>Twilight: 120
>Fluttershy: 8
>And most of them are lewd

It would take you literally zero effort to just stay gone

File: 1674588732877647.png (10 KB, 641x718)

10 KB PNG

>>41516553
Really, I thought for certain that would be Rarity.

>>41516553
That's very unusual. She's normally a fan favorite for many.

>>41518229
Discord shipping took all the attention instead, probably.

>>41518543
Could be. Though I wager that it wouldn't stop real Flutterfags from waifuing her.

>>41514681
adorable

>>41519516
>huge muscles
i wish

>>41520303
Haul around mares and you'll get them.
Those ponies are heavier than they look.

>>41519516
Aww, that pic looks so cute! I would love to look at a comic and see how their relationship grows.

File: 1678280337438517.jpg (771 KB, 2000x2000)

771 KB JPG

>>41520087
Granted, nobody would give up their waifu because of some shipping bait even if it was canon. But it probably does affect what art gets made, at least outside of this site.

File: 2399975__safe_artist-colo(...).png (54 KB, 1280x720)

54 KB PNG

>>41520716
light weight, baby

File: 1253748.gif (1.45 MB, 923x954)

1.45 MB GIF

Any good derpy fics or greens?

>>41520716
i need mares first
but i cant get mares without muscles
catch 22

>>41522006
Focus on your cardio; your heart is the most important muscle to them

File: 1598859187221.png (1.01 MB, 1331x1931)

1.01 MB PNG

After binge-writing this week, the new green stands at 9 chapters long, almost to the halfway mark. I'm sufficiently far ahead that I can start posting without fear of abandoning the project.

First chapter tomorrow!

>>41508372
>Is it really that private? For this long?
It is. And it remains private until the two decide to tell someone about it. Well, Harmony is technically aware of it as well, but considering that Harmony is a part of them just as they are a part of Harmony, it's not a real breach of privacy. And Harmony does not judge them or anything of that sort either.
> Yes it is a real game.
It is? Which one?
>get Anon back to the cryo pod quicker?
Well, it's certainly something that is on her mind. As you will see quite soon.
>Neither is #deca's proxy. That must be a bit awkward.
For sure. But he knows at least intellectually that he is talking to Firefly. That should help to make it a bit less awkward. Which will play a small role in the second part as well.
>And never bring it up again.
Kind of yes, but also not quite correct either. This scene is related to the whole chess sequence in the side story. Or rather, I knew I had this scene in the main story in mind back when I wrote that bunker passage, too many years ago. The side story one just happened to be created much earlier. So yes, it won't be brought up again, but also no, because it has already been brought up again. In advance. Kind of.
Speaking of which, I consider to slightly alter the sequence in the side story, as the timeline doesn't quite add up. The side story mentions that Anon and #deca.mare have been active in chess decades ago, which doesn't really work since that story is set in the time of the show, or at least close to it, whereas this point here in chapter 165 is set many centuries prior to Luna's return. The time scales are a bit off here.
>Or #deca's actions.
Yeah, this applies to her too.
>I wonder how many times will they mess up calling Anon as Star
Not so often in private, probably. It would get messy if they decided to return to the surface in incognito mode though.
>Just tell her that #deca.mare's proxy is much stronger than any pegasi one.
Oh, it won't be this simple with her.

>>41482221
The rest of chapter 165 is done now as well. The paste is already updated too, so let's get right to the posting.
Main story:
https://ponepaste.org/477
https://ponepaste.org/478
https://ponepaste.org/479
https://ponepaste.org/480
https://ponepaste.org/4581
https://ponepaste.org/8319
https://ponepaste.org/10382
Side story:
https://ponepaste.org/4466
Hope you like it.

>>41523913
>#deca.mare, still not overly happy about the decision, eventually plays along as well.
>Because whilst she will have her doubts, she is no fool.
>This here is the best and the shortest way to seal the deal, and it would be counterproductive if she were to object any further.
>"Very well. Let me just lower the output of your augmentations."
>However, Firefly has other ideas.
>"No, don't. No decrease in strength, Decanter."
>So much for no further objections.
>"Firefly, this is outrageous! You have every possible advantage even with lowered settings!"
>#deca.mare almost starts to stutter.
>"The augmentations with their normal output are several times stronger than any theoretical maximum that Anon could achieve!"
>This is intended to be an obvious point against Firefly's plans, but the mare simply turns this one around for her own argumentation.
>"Precisely. This makes it much more interesting."
>#deca.mare is about to respond, but Firefly nips her attempt in the bud.
>"And before you say anything about fairness or equal chances, do I have to remind you that somepony let us face a horde of fire breathing airborne lizards? Where was the physical fairness there?"
>#deca.mare tries to come up with an appropriate response.
>She does not find any though.
>The only real point she could still mention is that none of them was in any actual danger.
>Even if the worst possible outcome had come true, no one could have died for good, for instance.
>But they did not know this back then, of course.
>And they still confronted their opponents without hesitation, in spite of the abilities of the dragons.
>#deca.mare has no logical argument to object, other than her concerns about your health.
>So you decide to cut this conversation short.
>#deca.mare will surely want to talk about this later on, but you will deal with that afterwards.
>One thing at a time.
"Alright, Firefly. Keep it. It's fine."
>You start to stretch your limbs.
>Not that it would help you in any meaningful way, but still.
"The usual, I assume."
>And Firefly nods.
>"Of course. A clean match. As always."
>Which means applying force in moderation, and no outright violence.
>Though in this case it is only a real restriction for her, as it is almost impossible for you to hurt her, and much less significantly so.
>The only way for you to deal any kind of notable damage would be to aim for vulnerable spots like the eyes.
>Which you are not going to do, of course.
>Sky Squall laughs briefly as he watches your preparations and turns to Firefly.
>"You're lucky, love. I didn't get the chance to joust with him like that."
>The Pegasus is saying that in jest, but #deca.mare in particular is not taking that remark with quite the same degree of levity.
>You think you hear a grumpy grunt coming out of the comm device as she moves the small automaton right to Sky Squall's side.

>>41523937
>Then she stretches the grapplers and pinches the stallion's rear leg at the height of the hock a couple of times, clearly out of protest.
>She does not apply much force as she does so, for she is simply trying to needle him a little bit to show her disapproval.
>And she manages to accomplish at least something.
>After all, she knows all the right spots and places on his limb that she has to aim for to prompt the stallion to repeatedly lift his leg in order to get away from the nipping grapplers.
>The automaton almost looks like a small angry metal crab which tries to annoy a much larger pony in an almost comical fashion.
>Sky Squall takes the light pinching "assault" with a slightly awry grin as he keeps evading without showing any sign of backing off.
>He is accepting the reaction as the answer it is.
>In fact, you believe he was expecting something along these lines.
>And deep down, you are sure that #deca.mare has understood this too.
>Either way though, you decide to chime in before you face Firefly in a match which is, for all intents and purposes, a hopeless one.
"Okay, calm down, you two."
>Sky Squall is the first to speak up as his hock dodges the lively grapplers yet again.
>"I'm sorry. But I couldn't resist."
>The smile is not entirely gone, yet he did tone it down in order to abstain from agitating #deca.mare any further.
>And she grumbles audibly this time.
>"Neither could I."
>You take a breath and address her directly.
"It's alright, #deca. Leave his limbs alone."
>#deca.mare sighs loudly over the comm channel and pinches the leg of the stallion one last time before she relents.
>"As you wish, Anon. But I still cannot convince myself to like this."
>You nod.
"I know. It will be fine though. You'll see."
>You turn back to Firefly.
"Ready when you are."
>The mare grins as she hears that.
>"I was about to say the same."
>With that said, the match has practically started.
>But neither of you acts in the opening seconds as you both stand where you are to observe the other.
>A situation from which you actually benefit more than her, all things considered.
>For Firefly holds almost all of the cards by default.
>You have to think twice or thrice as hard as her to come up with any potential advantage on your end, and the extra moments are a welcome little bonus to do just that.
>Yet the grace period does not last very long, as Firefly takes a slow step in your direction.
>A clear reminder that she does not want to wait any longer.
>So you take the hint and approach her as well, equally slowly.
>You are in no rush to get to her, since any attempt of charging her would almost certainly be a fruitless endeavour.
>Because if you did, she would simply rear up and take your push upfront.
>In fact, she is likely to do that anyway, since it is one of the most basic moves in any Pegasus show tussle.
>After all, it has not become a common greeting between Pegasi without a reason.

>>41523949
>And as you think about this, you come to the conclusion that it might even be wise to go along with that and squarely take her first push.
>She is guaranteed to repel you, though this could be a good thing.
>Firefly will immediately see how substantial the difference between her and you is, and it is also quite safe for you too.
>You will merely be slung backwards.
>With low gravity, in an almost empty room.
>Nothing more.
>With this thought in mind, you quicken your pace as you attempt to bump straight into Firefly.
>The mare, ever attentive as always, is quick to react as you have predicted.
>She rears up nigh simultaneously.
>And she is quicker than you.
>Firefly is already standing firmly as you bump into her, and the result is as definite as it is predictable.
>The force of your move does not suffice to faze her in any way whatsoever.
>She does not even budge at all.
>But what does happen is that you feel how the muscles of the proxy are tensing.
>In the very next second, said tense muscles push against you in turn, shoving you back with remarkable ease.
>Sensing that trying to stem this force is unfeasible, you decide to focus on the repercussions of Firefly's instant riposte.
>And to the mare's credit, her reaction is fairly tame, all things considered.
>Granted, she is flicking you aside as if you were nothing, but she does not overdo it.
>You get neither flung across the room, nor do you get knocked to the ground.
>The mare simply pushes you back, forcing you to take a few steps backwards before you regain your balance and come to a stop.
>Firefly raises her voice.
>"You weren't kidding. The difference in strength is... staggering."
>She blinks as she mentally reviews her previous wording.
>"No pun intended."
>#deca.mare spots an opportunity to repeat her offer.
>"That was what I was trying to tell you, Firefly. Let me lower the output of the augmentations."
>But Firefly slowly turns to the automaton and shakes her head.
>"No, Decanter. We can handle it."
>Then she focuses back on you.
>"As I said, that only makes things more interesting."
>You still cannot sense even a smidge of aggression or spite in Firefly as she says this.
>Both her tone and her pose are attentive, and competitive to a degree, but that is about it.
>As far as you can tell, she is truly just doing this for the experience.
>And in accordance with the habits of a Pegasus show fight, she is doing her best to keep it civil.
>Which means that your initial idea has worked fairly well.
>Firefly has gotten her reminder to be careful in order to keep you unharmed as she spars with you.
>You nod, though you try not to come across as too confident, as this might have the opposite effect.
"It's all good so far. Ready?"
>As if you had to ask.
>"Whenever you are, Anon."
>Fine.
>You do not keep her waiting.

>>41523960
>So you approach her once again and speak up.
"I don't know if Sky told you that, but we practiced a bit. Guess it's time to find out whether that bore some fruit."
>Or not, as you silently add in your mind.
>Firefly smiles.
>"I'm eager to see it, Anon."
>You believe her right away.
>The mare readies herself once more.
>She is prepared to rear up as soon as you try something, allowing you to make the first move.
>You make use of the offer to go for a trick.
>At first, you act as if you were about to replicate your first engagement, prompting Firefly to rise.
>Which she does as predicted.
>And once she is lifting her upper body, you take one step back and grab her forelegs.
>You do not waste a single second and immediately apply one of the techniques that you practiced with Sky Squall, attempting to cause her to stumble by throwing her balance off.
>It has proven to be a semi-reliable strategy in the past.
>However, that was a trick you learned to use on a stallion who had severely dampened augmentations.
>But in this case, your strategy turns out to run ashore, and quite thoroughly so.
>Because whilst the initial surprise gives you a slight advantage, as you actually manage to tilt her to a certain degree, Firefly is seasoned enough to overcome this unforeseen change far too quickly.
>Before you can fully capitalise on your advantage, the mare tenses again, stiffening herself to such an extent that you cannot budge her limbs any more.
>Firefly may very well be frozen in place as far as you are concerned.
"Damn it."
>The mare smiles.
>"Interesting approach. A shame it did not work."
>Once more, she sounds completely earnest.
>There is no trace of mockery or gloating on her part.
>This is an honest statement of a mare who would have liked to see your move executed in its entirety.
>Out of pure personal curiosity.
"Yeah, it worked better in our practice sessions."
>Firefly almost laughs.
>She is visibly enjoying this highly unusual show fight.
>"That's the difference between practice and real competitions."
>You shrug, still grabbing her forelegs.
"I suppose so. Although..."
>Now you grin.
"... it's not too late to see it done. If you just..."
>You do not complete the sentence on purpose.
>Firefly gets the implication, and smiles yet again.
>And you think you can spot the faintest hint of amusement in her usually tough demeanour.
>"Nice try, Anon. But you've got to do that yourself."
>With that said, Firefly bumps into you to shove you away again.
>Back to square one then.
>Albeit with another card no longer in your hand.
>Running out of immediate ideas, you spontaneously decide to go for variations of the second strategy.
>You face Firefly several times with a number of different grabs and throws, yet they all end in the same manner.

>>41523969
>Firefly can simply counter them all by playing statue, no matter how many martial skills you put on display.
>That would be too simple for her though.
>So she spices things up on occasion.
>Whenever she feels like it, more often than not from your point of view, she does not merely block your moves by locking herself in place, but by actively using her strength to divert your movements in new directions instead.
>And since you are lacking the power to prevent it, you are dragged along every time.
>Sometimes, when Firefly gets particularly feisty, she even throws you off balance to catch you in turn.
>But considering that you would not be able to free yourself, she always lets you go after holding you tightly for a few seconds, enabling you to try your next move.
>Still, you would not say that this is going nowhere, despite the rather lopsided affair.
>After all, these competitions are meant to hone one's skill in an controlled environment.
>Firefly definitely acknowledges and perhaps even appreciates your efforts, regardless of your disadvantaged position.
>Nevertheless, you would like to score at least one victory here.
>Even just a tiny success would be enough.
>Yet you are running out of techniques.
>And the success does not come whilst your options are dwindling rapidly.
>In the end, you have depleted your repertoire without achieving any breakthrough moments.
>Firefly seems to sense that you are running out of ideas as well.
>"That's it?"
>Not willing to give up so easily, you spontaneously decide to try one last thing.
>You go all in.
>Not in terms of violence or anything like that, but with your strength.
>You take a few steps back, and without any other comment, you start to run.
>You dash towards Firefly with as much speed as possible and leap in the very last moment, turning yourself into an impromptu projectile.
>Of course, there is some risk involved in that, as Firefly could dodge your charge, which would leave you floating through the air like a fool.
>But you bet that she is taking it.
>Probably happily too.
>And even though you are unable to read Firefly's precise emotions, your predictions are nevertheless correct.
>Firefly awaits you, greeting you with her usual rearing stance.
>Then you crash into her, chest against chest, with a whole new degree of speed and force.
>It is unpleasant, yet bearable.
>Your ribs have endured worse treatments than that.
>Or at least one treatment.
>And your brave speed rush right towards Firefly actually gives you something.
>The force of the collision paired with the low gravity on the ship shoves the mare back.
>Only to a tiny degree, granted, but it is something.
>Though that small sense of accomplishment is slightly ruined by the fact that it takes Firefly merely one step with a rear leg to regain her footing.
>She has not seen that coming though, as she fails to hide her light surprise for a brief moment.

>>41523979
>But that surprise is quick to turn into approval.
>"Not bad, Anon. But..."
>There is the smile again.
>"... can you do even better?"
>The mare does not let you answer.
>Instead, you find yourself getting pushed back yet another time, albeit with notably more strength than before.
>Your boldness has apparently spurred her own ambition of testing your mettle, and perhaps she put a tad too much enthusiasm into her thrust because of it.
>For you are not merely shoved away.
>This push lifts you cleanly off the ground, causing you to float away in a low arc.
>You are not overly concerned about your health, as you will descend long before you hit a wall or something like that.
>But it is admittedly at least somewhat disconcerting to fly around without any agency of your own.
>Much like #deca.mare when she was thrown into the air by Sky Squall, you can merely affect your own rotation at best.
>And this is not going to do much.
>However, all of these considerations are suddenly rendered moot.
>Your back hits something.
>An unexpectedly soft surface.
>And two golden forelimbs wrap around your shoulders to stabilise you.
>Sky Squall reared up and caught you, just as #deca.mare did when he pushed you away.
>You collect your thoughts for a second or so before you address the stallion.
"Good catch. Thanks."
>He pats you firmly on the shoulder.
>"No Problem."
>Then he laughs.
>"Don't expect me to kiss you though."
>You grin at that.
"No, I don't. And remember, ponies with wings are not my type anyway. Too aloof. Sorry, Sky."
>The stallion rolls his eyes with a smile of his own.
>Hold on.
>This gives you an idea.
>A very unorthodox one, as you cannot recall any event in which a Pegasus might have done something like this.
>But it is an idea nonetheless.
>And it is, from a purely technical point of view, not against the rules either.
>You turn to Firefly and finally give her a proper response.
"Yeah. I can do better. And I bet I'll floor you now."
>If nothing else, Firefly likes your style.
>She does not laugh, she does not belittle you, she simply smiles in anticipation.
>"Now that's something I'd like to witness."
>You are sure that she does indeed.
>Without any irony or sarcasm.
>You give Sky Squall a signal to let you go.
>He heeds your wish.
>Now standing on all four legs again, he steps back to clear the proverbial stage for Firefly and you.
>Everything is set for you to live up to your word, or fail trying.
>And you for your part are actually optimistic for once.
>You prepare yourself to charge one final time, and you do not hide your intention from anyone.
>In fact, you want them to know in advance that you are going to do it.
>Firefly included.
>The mare braces herself as usual, also indirectly telling you that she is not trying to get out of the way either.
>Alright.
>Time to test your thesis.
>You run to cross the short distance between Firefly and you, and take a leap, both literally and figuratively, shortly before you have reached her.

>>41521932
There were some short ones I think but
>good
No idea

>>41523997
>So far, so normal.
>The difference does not involve the start, but the landing.
>Because you do not attempt to knock Firefly over with your own power.
>On the contrary, you grab her shoulders and pull her even closer to you.
>Or pull yourself even closer to her, to be precise.
>Then, in a fit of almost surgical precision, you meet her face to face and give her a kiss.
>Squarely, directly, with no hesitation.
>You give it all as if you were really meaning it.
>Firefly's eyes open widely in sheer baffled surprise whilst her suddenly scrambled mind tries, and utterly fails, to process your action properly.
>And she reacts right as you hoped she would.
>With her brain currently unable to think rationally, her instincts kick in.
>These instincts tell her to gain some distance, as quickly as possible.
>Which would mean, from the perspective of a Pegasus, to get airborne and fly away.
>An action that is not an option for Firefly whilst she is using #deca.mare's proxy.
>And her mind would be aware of this problem.
>Her instincts, however, are not.
>So she raises her upper body a little bit further.
>Normally, this would be a preparation for the Pegasus equivalent of a hasty vertical take off.
>Yet that manoeuvre requires, rather obviously, wings to proceed.
>Firefly's instincts start to clash with reality at that point though.
>For she tries to spread a pair of limbs which simply is not there.
>And which never has been there, as far as this body is concerned.
>The subsequent contradiction between what actually is and what should be according to her mind throws the mare completely off kilter.
>Her thought processes seem to jam as the back of the proxy twitches repeatedly.
>Firefly keeps searching for the missing limbs in the next couple of seconds.
>And thanks to the repositioning of her upper body, her footing is far less stable than it was before.
>Not to mention that she has unintentionally given you a tempting opening to topple her.
>An opportunity which you do not allow to go to waste.
>Since her defence is now flagging, you decide to gather all the strength that you can muster.
>Then you push Firefly with your own upper body.
>Whilst maintaining the kiss for good measure.
>Your strategy pays off, remarkably quickly at that.
>The mare tilts further and further backwards as you push her, and any attempts of Firefly to rectify this development are uncoordinated at best, and counterproductive at worst.
>Because once you have reached a certain angle, gravity is helping your cause far more than hers.
>And her constant twitching is only adding to the looming descent at this stage.
>Just a few degrees further, gravity takes over completely as Firefly keels over, dragging you with her.
>The mare lands on her back, with you lying directly on top of her.
>So you finally break the kiss and take a deep breath as you look at her.
"I'm sorry."
>Firefly blinks slowly, looking at nothing in particular as her mind reboots step by step.

>>41524018
>A few moments later, she has partially regained her wits and is able to reply.
>"Don't be. You... kept your word. Assuming this was a purely... practical action, that is."
>You are more than eager to confirm that, just to avoid any potential misunderstandings.
"Of course."
>The mare pauses for a second.
>"A bold move. It won't work a second time though."
>You shrug.
"Probably not. But that's fine. It did its job."
>You grin wryly.
"Besides, it's better this way. We're not doing this regularly, right?"
>She nods.
>"Right. Fortunately."
>Firefly takes a long breath.
>"Don't take this personally, Anon, but this was... the least pleasurable kiss I can think of."
>You blink with a smile.
"I can imagine. Though I'm sure it's the first time you were knocked over by one."
>Firefly chuckles cockily.
>"Would you bet on that?"
>You eye the mare closely and are greeted by a poker face.
>And you are actually unsure what to say.
>Because on the one hand, you are talking to Firefly.
>There is very little that can sweep her off her hooves.
>But on the other hand, she is married to Sky Squall.
>If there is someone who could pull this off, it is him.
>And considering how passionate these two are known to be, betting against that would not be a safe wager in the slightest.
"Uhm... I prefer not to."
>Your sudden uncertainty amuses her visibly.
>"Very well."
>A brief moment of silence follows.
>And it allows you to change the topic.
"So... are we done?"
>She inhales once more as her mischievous manner disappears entirely.
>Firefly has returned to her professional self.
>"I think so, yes. You have proven yourself, Anon."
>A pause.
>"You're... crafty."
>You give her a nod.
"Thank you. And thanks for keeping me in one piece too."
>The mare shrugs.
>"No problem. Shoving and pushing wasn't so risky. Despite your frailty."
>You do not comment on her remark since her still neutral tone suggests that she is just stating this as a fact again.
>And it is fairly accurate.
>"As long as we stick to things like that, you should be fine."
>You inhale deeply.
"True. And I wouldn't be fond of going to more... extreme measures again either, if it can be avoided."
>Firefly nods understandingly.
>"Fair enough."
>A pause.
>"You know what, there's one last thing you could do for me, Anon."
>Oh?
"Alright. What is it?"
>The answer is plain and rather unremarkable, yet entirely reasonable.
>"Getting off."
>You agree at once.
"Oh, right. Sure thing."
>You heed Firefly's wish and stand up.
>The mare follows suit once you are out of the way.
>And the two of you exchange glances once more before you conclude your match with a mutual respectful nod.
>The show tussle is officially over.
>You inhale deeply and turn to the two bystanders.
>Sky Squall and the small automaton stand side by side a couple of metres away.
>Silently.
>Merely observing.
>And you spot a peculiar constellation in what you see.

>>41524037
>After all, you know for a fact that #deca.mare has very strong opinions on your little show fight, in spite of the emotionless form of the automaton.
>You can observe an emotional reaction in the stance of the stallion though.
>Yet you are not entirely sure what he might think at the moment.
>Maybe he is not so sure himself as well.
>You would understand if he had reservations and objections in regard to your latest stunt.
>In fact, you believe it is more than likely that he at least had some when he saw what you did.
>But at the same time, he must also know that you only took the chance because it was practical and effective in your situation.
>You have no ulterior motives, and you certainly do not want to ruffle any feathers.
>He should be aware of that.
>Though you wonder whether you should say anything or not.
>In the end, you decide to test the water carefully and tactfully.
"Sky?"
>The stallion clears his throat.
>"I know what you want to say, Anon."
>He sighs.
>"I can't claim that I was fond of seeing this, but I also get why you did it."
>You nod.
"Then... no ill feelings?"
>Sky Squall takes a longer breath before he responds.
>"No ill feelings. Only a light stinging that it was me who gave you the idea by accident."
>You inhale.
"That's relieving to hear. Really."
>Then you tilt your head.
"But how do you know the last part?"
>Now it is him who grins.
>"This wasn't hard to figure out after the fact. You were at your wits' end, correct?"
>Which is true.
>You sigh.
"Yeah. I was at the end of my rope. This was the last trick I had."
>In a way, he did you a favour.
>Unintentionally, but still.
>You do not point this out or thank him for it, however.
>Because it would sound wrong or inappropriate, no matter how you word it.
>And the status quo is fine as it is anyway.
>Sky Squall takes the whole situation with a sense of sportsmanship, so everything is well.
>A short pause follows before Firefly starts to approach Sky Squall.
>She heads right for his free side to stand next to him.
>Which draws the stallion's attention to her, and allows you to subtly drop the slightly delicate discussion.
>And whilst the mare is walking, you address #deca.mare.
"Everything okay, #deca?"
>The tracks of the automaton start to move as the machine gets closer to you.
>"I should ask that question, Anon."
>Fine.
"I'm good, don't worry. I wasn't wounded."
>An honest assertion.
>Albeit an insufficient one for her standards.
>So she works through her list.
>"Bruises?"
"None."
>"Any ache?"
"Nope."
>"Other forms of malaise?"
"Nothing."
>"Discomfort?"
"Not even that. A light case of exhaustion at best."
>The camera eyes you once again, apparently not spotting any problems either.
>"Thank goodness."
>You smile.
"Let's hope it's the last time someone challenges me to a fight to test my mettle though."
>#deca.mare agrees wholeheartedly.
>"Yes. No more of these, please. Not with your own body."
>She pauses for a moment.

>>41524052
>"Two ponies can now testify to your deeds. And we have recordings of it. This should be enough."
>You do not object to that.
>Your second encounter may have been much less painful than the first, but it was nevertheless stressful in its own right.
>Now that this issue is over and done with though, #deca.mare is quick to tackle the last quasi-pressing point which remains.
>"Anon, I suggest that you return to the cryo unit soon."
>You grin again.
"Yes, I know. I age too quickly out here."
>#deca.mare responds soon.
>"Not only that, but I want to check your vitals before I initialise the process too. I want to be sure that there is really nothing to worry about."
>Something which can be done by the cryo unit itself, as it is capable of screening your health thoroughly.
>You shrug.
"Alright. Then I guess it's time to put me on ice. We have tested your patience far too much anyway."
>You turn to Sky Squall and Firefly.
"Unless there's something you still want to discuss beforehand."
>Sky Squall shakes his head whilst Firefly raises her voice.
>"You mean before you return to the simulation?"
>You nod.
"Yeah. Before I get back there, figuratively speaking."
>Firefly thinks about this offer for a few seconds before she shakes her head in turn.
>"Nothing that comes to my mind, no."
>#deca.mare recognises that this is her chance.
>"So everything is settled?"
>Firefly nods.
>The automaton turns to you again, facing you straight on as the camera is focussing on your head.
>And it is as if you could taste #deca.mare's expectations whilst you are looking at the machine.
>No further words are necessary.
"Alright, #deca. I'm going."
>Firefly addresses you again.
>"Anon?"
>You stop and turn your head.
"Hm?"
>"I'd like to see the process, if that's possible. Out of personal curiosity."
>Nothing easier than that.
"Sure. Come."
>You resume your short march to the cryo unit.
>#deca.mare's automaton is right behind you, and the two ponies follow the utility unit.
>You reach the cryo pod and look around.
"Oh, right. The unit with the dresser box is still at the quarters."
>#deca.mare chimes in.
>"No problem, Anon. I will clean up afterwards."
>Oh well.
>Not the most refined style, but if she insists.
>So you proceed to undress yourself as Firefly speaks up again.
>"I can't wait to return to the simulation as well, to be honest."
>You look at her and watch as the back of the proxy twitches strangely again.
>"This... just feels... wrong. Incomplete."
>She coughs and focuses on the automaton.
>"No offence."
>#deca.mare chuckles.
>"None taken."
>Sky Squall swiftly decides to spread his wing and wrap it gently around Firefly's back.
>She can at least feel one wing now.
>And the mare is quick to appreciate the gesture.
>She tilts her body to lean against Sky Squall's barrel, enabling him to cover even more of her back with his feathered limb.
>Which he does without hesitation.
>Firefly smiles warmly.
>"Thank you."
>She is visibly tempted to nuzzle the stallion.

>>41524062
>Yet she stops herself just a second or so before she actually does it, realising that this might go too far in her current condition.
>Granted, you have gone further with your last charge, but that was for a specific purpose.
>There was no actual intimacy in your deeds.
>Though there would be one in hers.
>Still, you for your part are not sure what to think about this scene.
>Because it does indeed feel strange to observe how #deca.mare's body almost nuzzles Sky Squall.
>But at the same time, you have never seen Firefly acting this soft before.
>Not even close.
>It is a side she has never shown in public.
>However, as fascinating as her behaviour might be, it is better for everyone to cut this whole thing short, all things considered.
>Especially since Sky Squall is equally uncertain as to how far he can go and how he should react.
>So you put the clothes aside and speak up to get the attention of everyone.
"Okay, I'm ready."
>And #deca.mare responds accordingly.
>"The system is ready too. I will begin my health scans as soon as you are inside."
>She pauses.
>"Shall I inform you when I am done?"
>You shake your head.
"That won't be necessary. Just initialise the process when you're finished. I'll know then."
>She breathes firmly over the comm channel again.
>"Understood, Anon."
>You smile at the camera.
"See you in the simulation, #deca."
>Then you turn to Sky Squall and Firefly.
"Until then."
>The Pegasus nods respectfully, and Firefly responds with a formal salute.
>You have to stifle a faint grin upon seeing Firefly saluting with a rosy blush though.
>This is definitely a first one.
>And it is almost a shame that she is using #deca.mare's proxy at that moment.
>Because it would have been even better if you had seen that on her own face.
>Nevertheless, the mere thought alone gives you fodder for a funny mental image.
>So much so that you eventually must turn to the cryo unit to hide the grin which you cannot hold back any longer.
>Then you step into the machine and make yourself comfortable as the cryo unit kicks into action around you.
>The canopy closes itself as usual and your limbs are getting restrained.
>Nothing out of the ordinary so far.
>But you do not feel the common effects of the impending cryo process just yet.
>#deca.mare is still performing her health checks.
>And the mere fact that it takes a short while for her to do so tells you that she is going through all the intel with a vigorous zeal.
>You are not alarmed by this in the slightest.
>Though it is admittedly somewhat irritating to lie around for a while without the ability to move at all.
>Yet this is not the only noteworthy thing which happens, as Firefly steps up to the machine and stares curiously through the transparent surface.
>Then she says something you cannot hear.
>And you assume she gets an answer which is equally inaudible within the pod.

>>41524069
>Sky Squall shows himself a moment thereafter as well, wrapping his wing thoughtfully around the back of the proxy once more.
>The two keep talking to one another, and if you read their expressions correctly, Sky Squall is explaining something to his attentive wife whilst they are eyeing you and the unit.
>Certainly a question in regard to this machine or perhaps technology in general.
>Firefly may have gotten a summary from Sky Squall when they were alone, but this is the first time she sees such a piece of technology working in action.
>This experience is highly alien to her.
>Yet at the same time, it must also be strangely familiar, to a degree.
>After all, seeing Unicorns casting spells is not all that different in theory, even when the technology is hidden.
>Not to mention that she herself has lived with similar parts the entire time.
>Nevertheless, this is a lot to process.
>Even a stout mind like hers cannot accomplish that in a few hours.
>But she can count on getting a lot of help.
>From #deca.mare and you.
>And, perhaps most importantly, her loving husband.
>You cannot think of any better starting conditions.
>Or any better thought to have, shortly before your mind gets lulled to sleep by a fit of chilly drowsiness.

>>41524088
Done. As always, thoughts and comments are welcome.

>>41524052
>"Discomfort?"
>"Not even that. A light case of exhaustion at best."
I feel like he could have tossed a "only about not being you" in there.
>>41524095
I honestly expected him to try and ride her, but I imagine that would have gone over wildly terrible.

>>41524011
You interrupted green.
For this crime, you must die.

File: 6Yqd_4l81VY.jpg (78 KB, 888x499)

78 KB JPG

>>41524540
Yes, please kill me so I can finally get to Equestria.

>>41524789
INTERCEPTED SOUL
Sorry nigga you're going to DIGITAL CIRCUS

File: 1689708057298557.jpg (150 KB, 1200x1146)

150 KB JPG

>>41501534

>>41518543
Fluttercordcucks don't seem to get more art than the average ship though.

>>41524477
>I feel like he could have tossed a "only about not being you" in there.
Did you mean "not being with you"? Yeah, that would have been an opportunity to give the scene an additional romantic touch in retrospect.
>I honestly expected him to try and ride her, but I imagine that would have gone over wildly terrible.
Oh yes, that would end in a wild and very short rodeo. With her strength and the lowered gravity, the words human cannonball come to mind.

>>41524865
Doesn't seem too bad. Can't imagine the kind of hell my murderer would be going to for robbing one mare of happiness forever.

>>41523744
>Is it really that private?
They clearly talked a lot about the state of what's what. That did not had to be private.
>Yes it is a real game.
5D Chess with Multiverse Time Travel.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suRtn-Jymzg

܂>>41524088
>eventually plays along as well
Meanwhile she quickly turned down the strength of the proxy. There was no instruction from Anon not to interfere!
>Let me just lower the output of your augmentations
Called it!
>No decrease in strength
How does she even know what these do? Did she got the info wired into her memory or what? There is no way the two were able to go through all that knowledge this quick.
>do I have to remind you that
She had nothing to do with that. Also this seems too quick to connect the dots/blame them.
>almost impossible for you to hurt her
Its literally is impossible. Even if kills the proxy.
>I couldn't resist
They just want to get every and any chance to beat Anon! #deca.mare should make a virtual room filled with Anon NPCs for them to beat up.
>She does not even budge at all
#deca.mare's proxy is thicc. And just because they are in lower gravity that does not mean they weight any less.
>Decanter
So Anon is Anon, but #deca.mare is Decanter.
>A shame it did not work
Don't tell her to expect the unexpected next time.
>give her kiss
oh this is going to piss of all three of them.
>in the next couple of seconds
A long kiss!
>Don't be.
Seems like Firefly liked Star a tiny bit more than just a good friend.
>As long as we stick to things like that
And kissing!
>Sky Squall and the small automaton stand side by side a couple of metres away
Neither knows what just happened. Sky on one hand saw he kissed his wife but on the other hand Anon kissed #deca.mare's proxy.
>I also get why you did it
To kiss pretty mares!
>The automaton turns to you again
Just occured to me that #deca.mare could have used Anon's proxy.
>she stops herself just a second or so before she actually does it
Sky didn't. The wing hug is just as intimate.
>never seen Firefly acting this soft before
Really? I'm sure Anon has seen Firefly with her four foals.
>Firefly may have gotten a summary from Sky Squall when they were alone
Just how much were they alone in private? Must have been hours if Firefly already knows this much.

Thanks for the update!

File: its-raw-you-660cfabb63.jpg (207 KB, 600x360)

207 KB JPG

>>41525689

>>41526273
I did forget the "it" in the middle of about and not, yeah.
and it would also help smooth deca's metaphorical feathers over him doing that to someone else, even if it was her body.
I do think it would be funny if he tried to ride at some point and having it not really work because they're little ponies.

>>41523949
>not grabbing him by the nuts when she has the chance
come on man
that sends a message

>>41528298
grabbing him by the nuts when she doesn't know her own strength is how you get irreparable damage.

File: 1953560.png (2.03 MB, 3200x1800)

2.03 MB PNG

>Your story begins on the banks of the River Ponyville.
>Its roots trace far earlier than that, to be sure, but in the years to come, none would ever dare to claim it began anywhere other than where your feet lay firmly planted now.
>The soft mud sinking beneath your weight, you raise your binoculars and peer out at the edge of the town.
>Straw roofs of the residents' homes poke out from behind the towering wall of fortifications.
>Though "fortifications" would be putting it kindly — it was scarcely more than a loose conglomerate of cobblestones, reclaimed wood, and sheet metal.
>You smile at the thought of the villagers laying out kindling for you to raze.
>Yet despite the ramshackle appearance, the wall was still a more sizeable defense than you'd anticipated.
>It seems the town came together swiftly to prepare for your arrival, going so far as to break down their wagons and market stalls to forge the ramparts, symbolically sacrificing their livelihoods in defense of their homeland.
>The entire southwest border of the city is fully blockaded.
>To your east is the Everfree forest, marked by treacherous and flat-out impassable terrain.
>To the west are rolling hills, which, though easily navigable on foot, leave you alarmingly visible and vulnerable to a pincer movement from both Ponyville and Cloudsdale.
>No. The road to Canterlot lies through Ponyville.
>Just in front of the blockade, their militia had set up camp.
>A large central campfire blazed, surrounded by tents, casting light on their troops in the otherwise dark of night.
>The ponies wore plain cloaks, presumably to conceal their figures and the true extent of their numbers, but their faces were just barely visible through the lenses of your binoculars.
>One face in particular.
"Hmmm."
>A voice, silent up till now, speaks up at your side.
>"What is it, sir?"
>You watch the figure direct troops with lofty authority, directing the efforts to forge makeshift weapons and bolster defenses.
"Their commander."
>"It's not the Princess, is it?"
"No. She's holed up in the castle, no doubt."
>"Sir."
>You finally lower your binoculars and look down at your valet, his yellow coat and bright orange mane glimmering in the starlight.
>"I don't mean to question you..." he begins uneasily.
"Speak your mind."
>"I can tell when something's wrong."
"And why do you say that?"
>"The fact that we're standing here. The legates warned you to send out scouts, but you chose to go yourself?"
>You crouch down on the riverbank and stare out at the city pensively.
"I can't trust scouts with this job."
>"You had no problem trusting them in Appleloosa."
"I trust you, Tax, which is why I'll say this. This is more than a crusade for me. It's a vendetta."
>He frowns. "I don't understand."
>Rising back your feet, you ascend up the bank, minding your footing on the rocks and slippery mud.
"That commander. We have a history, she and I, and I've waited thirteen years for this moment."
>Tax follows you without another word.

>>41529279
>You return to the castrum, the encampment which will be your legionaries' home for the foreseeable future.
>You observe each contubernium, a squad comprising ten legionaries, pitching their tent as you make your way through.
>You pulled from the Roman model in structuring your army; it made the most sense for Equestria's stage in civilization.
>Eight contubernia formed a century, led by a centurion officer. Six centuries made up a cohort, headed by the most senior centurion.
>The legion, your largest divisible formation, had ten cohorts and was commanded by a legate, the highest rank you could honor a soldier with.
>Your centurions were battle-hardened, stately creatures. The standard legionary, on the other hand...
>Though you've never said it aloud, they're an ugly lot. Anthropomorphized beasts of every animal imaginable. Fish, rat, pig, lizard, bird — every race under the Equestrian sun, save for pony. Tax stands unique in that regard.
>Detestable as they are, they understand fealty. Each one kneels as you pass, venerating the ground upon which you walk.
>Tax trots close behind, as if anxious to stray too far from your sphere of influence.
>You don't blame him, being what he is. Your troops are prejudiced.
>After all, you're the one who instilled it in them.
>You reach the imperial tent, your mobile base of operations, just as the final stake is driven into the ground.
>The tent is split into two sections. The war room, where your business is conducted, sits towards the front. A curtain door leads to your private chambers in the back.
>A praetorian pulls the flap aside for you, and you duck your head to enter. Your legate Harald stands, arms crossed, beside the war table.
>Whereas your legionaries were beasts in the derogatory sense, with Harald, you mean it as a term of deep respect.
>A meager chieftain when you found him, his race was in disarray after the deposition of their king. They were little more than an assortment of tribes in what used to be the Storm King's Realm.
>It was only when your army of Klugetowners, just a thousand strong at the time, sailed over and extended an offer that he found his true purpose. With your aid, he brutalized the rival chieftains and unified the storm creatures for the first time in years.
>In a show of allegiance to you, he cast aside his former name and accepted the title of Legatus Harald.
>Being nine feet tall and hairier than a gorilla, you named him after the viking Harald, once-conqueror of Scandinavia.
>He wasn't your most skilled legate, but he was by far the most fearsome, and for that reason you enjoyed having him around. He enhanced your image in ways no other could.
>Approaching the table, you lay your palms upon the massive, intricately-carved topographical map of Equestria. The table was jointly sculpted by a master craftsman and a cartographer, from a single massive sequoia that your troops cut down while harvesting timber for the war effort in the Pine Needle Barrens.

>>41529283
>Harald raises a fist to his behemoth chest in acknowledgment of your arrival.
"Have we taken inventory?"
>"Runners are tallying up the counts now," he booms. "The ponies carted off what they could, but we took Appleloosa quickly. It wasn't much."
"And the fire?"
>"Swallowed most of the West Orchard. Extinguished now, but we got here too late to save any more than half."
>You dig your nails into the table. That they would rather burn their ancestral trees to the ground than see the fruits of their labor fall into your hands is not the sort of pragmatic behavior you expected from ponies.
>They're prouder than that. It's a weakness you were keen on exploiting.
>You know instantly that this was her doing. The Princess would never go for it. The commander, on the other hand... this cold, calculated move has her name written all over it.
>"Permission to enter," a voice squeaks from outside. "I have the final count."
"Granted," you announce, not taking your eyes off the table.
>A small storm creature enters the tent and scampers up to Harald, handing him a piece of paper before seeing himself out.
>Harald raises the parchment to his face and squints.
"What's the tally?"
>"3,600 bushels. Roughly."
>Tax scribbles some quick arithmetic into his notebook. "With proper rationing, it's enough to last us..."
>He pauses.
>"Fifteen days."
>You slam your fist on the table. Sweet Apple Acres was meant to feed your troops comfortably for over a month. You timed the attack perfectly to coincide with harvest season.
>Now, because of the ponies' bull-headedness, your lifeline's been severed. You'll need to create a new one if you want to have any hopes of pressing on.
"Get me Zenobia."
>Tax hurries out of the tent just as another legate enters.
>Ramses approaches you, clad in his trademark breastplate, plastered with pages torn from old Earth paperbacks.
>You never, not for a moment, saw the minotaur without his armor. In his mind, it made him a better tactician.
>Seemingly, it worked. Never have you met a more brilliant military strategist. As far as you were concerned, he could wear a clown suit all day long, so long as he kept steering your centurions right.
>Ramses bows his head in respect upon reaching your side. "What did you see?"
>It was against his advice that you personally scouted out Ponyville's defenses.
"They've blockaded the city and blown two of the footbridges..."
>Taking your knife to the table, you carve out the two smaller rectangles along the Ponyville River.
"...leaving a single choke point on the main bridge where they've deployed a regiment."
>"Did you probe for weaknesses in the fortifications?"
"Too dark to tell. Send out the scouts and have them report back after dawn."
>"We secured the farmhouse. No one—"
"Burn it," you interrupt him.
>Ramses frowns. "Pardon?"

>>41529286
>You point the tip of your knife at the tiny model of Sweet Apple Acres.
"Burn this farmhouse. Raze this barn. Bury the ashes. Let there be no indication there was ever a home on this accursed plot of land to begin with."
>"Sir..." Harald protests.
>He, himself, was a brute, but even he recognized needless violence. The pre-existing structures would serve good use to the castrum.
>You didn't care.
"Do it. I'd burn the trees, too, just to send a message, if we didn't need them in the coming months."
>Tax returns with your third legate.
>Of the three, Zenobia is your least favored. Like most felines, she thinks too highly of herself, and you suspect her oath to you was born mostly of personal convenience.
>But her cunning far exceeds your own, and you're not one to put pride above recognition of skill. War is won just as much by words as it is by swords, and she has a way with both.
>As she saunters in, you waste no time issuing orders.
"Send a message to Klugetown. Get the governor to expedite the fall harvest. I want the entire first yield on a convoy here within a week."
>She inspects her claws nonchalantly. "Capper's not gonna go for that."
"I appointed him specifically to heed my will. You can tell him if he wants to start thinking for himself, he can go back to peddling street grifts. Practically every male citizen he represents is in my legion, and it's his job to keep them fed."
>Her lip curls. "What do you mean 'I' can tell him? Send a messenger."
"A messenger can't enforce orders, and Capper won't follow through unless we make him. Ponyville plans to win this siege by starving us out."
>"This is absurd!" she yells. "You're sending a Legate to play envoy?"
"I am. Because on your journey back, you're stationing at Appleloosa."
>"Absolutely not."
"You will. Ponyville is trying to buy themselves time to mobilize the rest of Equestria, and I will not lose our first major foothold in the region to a counterattack. It's too important to leave in the hands of centurions. I need a Legate holding the city. Take a cohort with you and be gone."
>Knowing it a pointless endeavor to resist further, she turns and leaves the tent, her tail flicking out from beneath her coat as if to express her disdain for your unilateral decision.
>"The game has changed now," Ramses says.
>Harald taps at the bridge you etched away. "I knew this was coming. If we split off from Appleloosa like I suggested, my legion could've circled around the Everfree and cut off the city entirely."
>"No, we did the right thing. It would have taken you east through Dodge Junction—"
>"A village of less than a hundred, no bigger than Appleloosa."
>"Numbers are not the issue. It brings you too near the coast. If Baltimare and Fillydelphia had moved to intercept, you would've been decimated."
>"Baltimare and Fillydelphia have no standing armies!" Harald bellows. "The whole strategy relied on moving too fast to give them time to assemble. Now we're sitting ducks."

>>41529288
>You stare down at the table while your legates argue over tactics. They were both right, in their respective ways. The commander of Ponyville's response simply caught you off guard.
>You underestimated her. You didn't expect her to roll over and take it, but nor did you think her capable of mobilizing troops, fortifying the city, strangling your entry into the city, and ravaging your bounty — all in the span of a day's march from Appleloosa.
>But now every second spent recouping your losses is a second gained for her to raise an army, something it took you years to accomplish.
"It's time for Plan B."
>You were hoping it wouldn't come to this, but she's left you no choice.
>As both your legates fall silent, you turn your gaze to the vast region to the southeast.
"Let's make some allies."

>After a long deliberation with Harald and Ramses, you exit the imperial tent to check on the status of the castrum.
>The surviving orchard provides excellent cover, but makes navigating between tents rather difficult.
>Yet this is the price you must pay if you seek to conceal your numbers. They will undoubtedly send out pegasi scouts tonight, if they haven't already.
>A tall, thick plume of black smoke extends upward, blocking out the stars of night.
>As you make your way to it, you feel the intense light and heat of the fire impress upon your skin.
>What poor family that once made this site their home will have it no more.
>Watching the farmhouse buckle and collapse as its charred beams give out, you walk over to a pair of creatures also observing the scene.
>Kyra, a zebra, serves as your quartermaster. She's respectful toward you, and knows her place. In another life, she was quite skilled at smithing. You had no issue entrusting her with your munitions.
>Your ancillary, Laurel Leaves, however, is another story. She's a rogue Kirin who travelled to the mainland as a young girl, wanting to see the world. She has lofty aspirations, but lacks the mettle to achieve them. There's no place for a lady like that in your army.
>She and you go further back than almost anyone else in your legion. You met back in your civilian life in Klugetown. She was the only Kirin; you were the only human. From that isolation, an ironic kinship was born.
>You're not sure why you ultimately decided to keep her around. Maybe she represents what ponies ought to be. Maybe it's something less profound than that.
>Whatever the case may be, she makes a decent ancillary. Combat may not be her forte, but logistics are just as important, and she's proven capable thus far.
>The only thing that ever gave you pause was her penchant for snark.
>The two of them bow their heads as you come up.
"I want you two to oversee the construction of an arsenal and depot here after the debris is cleared."
>"Oh?" Kyra indicates. "We have the wagons cordoned off."
"It's looking like the castrum is going to be more than temporary."
>Laurel smirks. "Told you."

>>41529292
"You weren't the only one," you reply dismissively. "We all knew this was a possibility. Until we can take Ponyville to establish a fortress, we'll need to raise structures here. Starting with the arsenal."
>Kyra wears an unsteady expression. "We'll need materials, sir. We might be able to reclaim some from the fire, but—"
"No wood. All stone."
>You're not taking the chance. If you're putting all your eggs in one basket, it at least ought to be built from sturdier stuff than wicker.
>"We passed a quarry on the road here," Laurel says. "Two, three miles back."
"Use the legionaries. Laborers will be busy with their support duties. The centurions can rotate their troops between labor and drills."
>You look about the orchard, the stench of soot filling your nostrils. Most trees in this section have been torched beyond saving. With the leaves burnt up, they'll hardly provide any aerial cover.
"And have them get started on clear-cutting these snags."
>Laurel kicks her rear hoof at the dead tree behind her, cracking the brittle bark. "They're no good for timber."
"It's eating away at our footprint. The contubernia are pitching tents haphazardly wherever they can squeeze in. The blueprint is there to keep us organized. I want them following it."
>As she nods affirmatively, you turn your attention to Kyra.
"Go unload the stockpile. I want the arsenal operational by dusk tomorrow."
>She bows once more and trots off to do your bidding.
"Walk with me," you command Laurel.
>She follows after you as you return to the imperial tent.
"Plans are changing. The legates and I each have a role to play in the coming days. We can't be bogged down with upkeep."
>"That's why you have me," she beams, self-assuredly.
"It means I'm entrusting you with more responsibility than originally planned. You'll have run of the castrum while we're gone."
>She stops in her tracks, her coy demeanor evaporating. "What? What if we're attacked?"
"Harald will be nearby, but he'll be occupied with something far more important than overseeing the troops."
>You open the flap to your tent, motioning for her to enter. After a brief pause, she obliges.
>"What scheme are you cooking up?" she asks.
"You're on a need-to-know basis. I'm already reluctant to give you this much authority so soon, but we're stretched thin."
>You look over at Tax, standing by to assist you.
"Parchment and the stamp."
>He fetches both items for you.
>Taking out a quill, you dip it in an ink vial begin scrawling at your desk.
"You'll be conferred the title of 'Praefectus Castrorum'."
>She raises an eyebrow. "Am I supposed to know what that means?"
>You internally wince at the disdain she shows for the honor you're bestowing her. Any one of your officers would kill for an opportunity like this.
>She's a typical civilian.
"It means I'm giving you de facto command over the centurions for all non-militant operations."

>>41529296
>She stares at the page, watching in disbelief as you scribble away. "That would put me at the same level as the legates."
"'Non-militant' being the operating word. The slightest skirmish breaks out, and all your authority is deferred to Harald."
>You tenderly pour a circle of wax upon the bottom of the page, then slam down the imperial stamp upon it.
>With that, you offer it up to Laurel, who only smiles.
>"You trust me."
"I trust you as far as I can throw you. Establishing the arsenal is essential to holding this position."
>"You asked me to serve under you," she asserts. "Everyone else in Klugetown was clamoring to organize beneath you, but I was the only one you had to ask to join the campaign."
>That's not remotely true. You had to work far harder to earn Ramses' respect than he had to earn yours.
>But you better than to contend with her. The two of you will be at it all night. It's happened before.
>Gesturing toward the parchment, you offer it once more.
>Her horn glows as she levitates it out from your grasp, wearing a sly grin. "You know I'd do anything for you."
>What she lacks in decorum, she makes up for in ability. Much as you hate to admit it, she's capable of things your centurions aren't.
>Besides, with this new development, you need each unit battle-ready.
"Prove yourself worthy of the title Ancilla, then."
>She folds the parchment delicately and places it in her satchel. "Of course, my liege."
>Before you have time to react, she brings her lips to your hand and gives it a peck.
>She gives you one final glance before turning and exiting the tent.
>There's a fine line between cheeky and serious, and that Kirin plays jump-rope with it.

>It's a restless night. You can't well sleep, knowing what lies on the other side of that river. The fate that awaits you.
>Just before dawn, Tax bursts into your tent without warning — the only non-legate privileged to do so.
>"Sir, you're going to want to see this!"
>In less than a minute, you're leaving your tent, whispered commotion from the troops surrounding you as you pursue Tax, darting and weaving through the mob.
>The crowd parts as you walk up to a small object on the ground. Kneeling down, you inspect it.
>An arrow, plunged into the earth, a scrap of parchment tied to it with a ribbon.
>Ramses pushes through to join your side, speaking up. "We have a wide perimeter, sir, there's no way an archer could have breached it."
>Noting the steep entry angle of the projectile, you glance up at the sky above.
"You're right about that."
>As you reach to undo the ribbon, several voices warn you against it.
>"It could be poisoned," Kyra warns.
>Harald squints. "Or cursed."
>You ignore their warnings, knowing the ponies to be above such petty tactics.
>Unrolling the parchment, you hold it up to the light of the torch, reading off three simple lines:
>Parley.
>One hour.
>T.S.

https://ponepaste.org/10401

>>41529300
Interesting start, though as an Applefag I'm offended on a fundamental level you burnt down the farm.
We'll see how it goes.

File: 770972.png (929 KB, 1280x1019)

929 KB PNG

>>41529300
Not sure where this is going but I'll follow it until the point where my waifu gets hurt.

File: Who would make a candle t(...).png (60 KB, 1280x1280)

60 KB PNG

>>41530305
I think this was the Anon/Fizzlepop idea

File: 2520752__safe_artist-colo(...).png (936 KB, 1914x1548)

936 KB PNG

>>41529288
>If Baltimare and Fillydelphia had moved to intercept, you would've been decimated."
He's a big guy, he can handle losing a tenth of his troops.

>>41501534
There is

File: 2177256.png (277 KB, 1280x776)

277 KB PNG

>>41529300
you have my attention

>>41529300
you have my curiosity

>>41529300
Was any mare hurt or, worse, killed?

File: 1476080854101.png (687 KB, 970x1078)

687 KB PNG

>>41530526
Sure, but that's our meta knowledge. We technically don't even know who the main character is so far, aside from the fact that he's a chud empire roleplayer playing it absolutely seriously, hinting strongly that he's a 4chan user.

>>41529300
Don't know how will this fit /nmp/, but I's sure you have a plan.

>>41532370
>implying the average 4chan user wouldn't be too autistic to be an emperor
Choosing violence, however, means if he was he'd be an offboarder. Or one of the slave thread regulars. We'll see how it goes though I guess.

>>41532902
Yeah, I'm intrigued to see how things got this bad.

File: 1722049288280765.jpg (218 KB, 1933x1400)

218 KB JPG

Investigative mare.

File: 1128677.png (303 KB, 453x373)

303 KB PNG

>use ponepaste random feature to find greens
>find and read all of pentapony's greens a few weeks ago
>"damn I wish this guy wrote more"
>fastforward to now
>randomly browse ponepaste because I'm bored and anni is basically over
>updated story list
>Scarred Hearts
>by pentapony
Bros, am I magical?

Also, LETS FUCKING GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

File: 22005AE6-6C13-406D-BE14-D(...).png (170 KB, 647x600)

170 KB PNG

>>41501534
It’s outrageous to me that of all things POKÉMON got canonical vindication of sex between human and beast before we did. Fuckin sucks man.

>>41534473
The Pokémon Fan Club Chairman and his Rapidash debuted in 1996 and "Sinnoh Folk Story 3" dropped ten years later, so unfortunately MLP never had a chance

>>41534542
don't forget that the manga had a headline detailing a "shocking case of pokelove" where a woman claims it's the "last bath she'll take with her tentacool"

>>41534473
Well, FiM doesn't really have humans so no luck in terms of canon material.

>>41534473
Mares showed interest in human males in G1.
And G1.5 seemed to be human-pony hybrids.

>>41534473
Oh, this is about the leaks. What'd I miss?

>>41534909
They discovered a pack of unused fables about Pokémon that married humans. They’re pretty neat, kinda reminiscent of the animal bride stories our ancestors all shared.

>>41535077
>kinda reminiscent of the animal bride stories our ancestors all shared
The Octillery/Ursaring one really had that fever dream logic that you get in those kinds of myths; it felt really authentic

>>41534909
some gamefreak admin/exec clicked a phishing link and this resulted in a terabyte of source codes, beta sprites, lore docs (including the whole cosmology/creation myth), canceled/shelved games, callsigns for game platforms, concept art... quite substantial. Along with the pokefucking animal bride stories >>41535077 mentioned.

File: 1049296__safe_screencap_b(...).gif (2.41 MB, 479x356)

2.41 MB GIF

mare

>>41529279
more color accurate upscale of image: https://files.catbox.moe/ih7vog.png

>>41535900
Look at her go!

>>41535900
amre

File: 1474032.png (177 KB, 1000x1875)

177 KB PNG

>>41536795
Plumre.

>>41537409
hors

>>41535900
she's just like me at the Mare Fair concert!

>>41537989
You'd be golden together then.

File: 6920471__safe_imported+fr(...).png (3.3 MB, 2560x1440)

3.3 MB PNG

Bringing her to the lights in the sky she likes so much.

File: Sloppy open-mouth horse k(...).png (1.16 MB, 1590x2129)

1.16 MB PNG

>>41539414
she's going to have to settle for sloppy nerd makeout sessions

>>41539866
>nerd mare makeout sessions
Those are the best.

File: 1491457180085.png (275 KB, 500x670)

275 KB PNG

>>41539866
Not the worst thing in the world to "settle for"

>>41541256
The life vest adds a lot to her sex appeal here.

File: 1652957.png (818 KB, 2000x3000)

818 KB PNG

>>41537409

>>41542160
>not keeping the tights
she could make them part of the uniform for the rest of them

File: 1281850.png (352 KB, 1022x1158)

352 KB PNG

It's almost the season for the mare scare

File: 2154517__safe_artist-colo(...).png (855 KB, 3609x3356)

855 KB PNG

amre

>>41543716
Now it is October though. Time to whip out the deco.

>>41544293
we know Pinkie would be top contender for most decorated house, but do you think Dash would put a lot more effort into it if you told her it was a competition?

>>41544762
Yeah. If you absolutely want to turn it into a decoration fest, add AJ to the mix too.

File: 1513434719060.gif (3.28 MB, 800x613)

3.28 MB GIF

>>41529300
I'm interested, thank you anon.

File: 2562093__safe_artist-colo(...).jpg (245 KB, 1932x1354)

245 KB JPG

mare

File: 1724843880934562.jpg (212 KB, 1826x1533)

212 KB JPG

I feel lonely. How to meet mares in my area?

>>41545861
You need a mare sense. If you don't have any, you have to develop it.

>>41526729
>That did not had to be private.
Sure, it didn't have to be. Letting Sky Squall brief her freely in a private discussion makes it a tad easier for her to trust in their intentions though. Since they do not know what Sky is telling her and how he does it, it is both a gesture of trust on Anon's and #deca.mare's part, and an indication that they do not even try to affect these talks in any way whatsoever. It is beneficial for the situation to hand the reins to Sky and let him talk to Firefly on his own terms when Anon and #deca.mare are not involved at all.
>5D Chess with Multiverse Time Travel
Kek. This game looks like a chaos, in spite of being the exact opposite. Could be fun with a couple of friends.
>>41526733
>How does she even know what these do?
>There is no way the two were able to go through all that knowledge this quick.
A basic understanding is already enough. Like, Sky tells her in very rough outlines that some parts of her body are, for the lack of a better term, filled with magic/technology, which grant her enhanced strength and more resilience that would be impossible to achieve otherwise, and that their effects can be dampened. He can easily mention that in passing when he talks about his confrontation with Anon. An in-depth elaboration on augmentations is not necessary to get the idea across.
>She had nothing to do with that.
Well, Anon and #deca.mare 'allowed' it to happen. They had all the tools they needed to prevent this situation altogether, yet they let it play out regardless. Firefly words it somewhat uncharitably here because she omits the fact that the two actively guided the process to an extent in order to reach a conclusion which is agreeable for both sides of the conflict, but what she says is technically correct nevertheless.
>Its literally is impossible.
Hurt her as in referring to cause her pain and to inflict wounds on the body whilst she is using the proxy. Firefly herself cannot be hurt by this of course, but she can feel when the proxy gets damaged.
>So Anon is Anon, but #deca.mare is Decanter.
Because I'd wager that calling her Decanter is less alien to Firefly than referring to her as #deca.mare or so. It's admittedly somewhat unusual, considering that this is the last name of her alias, but it's obviously much closer to her actual name than Enigmatic. And Anon is, well, Anon.
>Just occured to me that #deca.mare could have used Anon's proxy.
Yeah, she could. It's unlikely that this would have made things easier to digest for Firefly though. Seeing #deca.mare acting and speaking through Anon's proxy would probably make the situation more awkward instead.
[Cont.]

>>41546879
>Really? I'm sure Anon has seen Firefly with her four foals.
Without a doubt. Being soft here intends to refer to Firefly never showing her more romantically affectionate side in public, i.e. she and Sky don't act like smitten lovebirds out in the open. Considering that they were two of the ace Pegasi of their generation, they tried to maintain a certain reputation as the tough and cool ones because of their status. It doesn't mean that they don't have a softer side of course, and the ponies around them know that as well, but they still prefer to keep these moments private whenever it is possible. It's also the reason why Sky reacted so strongly to Anon's comment on certain rumours, as Sky felt that these might have impaired their reputation, even though they were just harmless remarks on a widely known fact.
As for seeing them with their foals, that's a wholly different matter. No one would think any less of them for being caring parents. If anything, it does the opposite, as it would elevate their status as role models yet further. And to be entirely honest, I didn't think that someone would get that impression from this line. Perhaps it could benefit from a small clarification.
>Must have been hours if Firefly already knows this much.
I figured more than one would be suitable at least, as Firefly would have many questions for Sky Squall to answer, especially now that he is the only one whose trustworthiness has not been dented by recent events.
>>41527074
Ah, so that was it.
>spoiler
#deca.mare is probably the one of the three who is the least miffed about Anon's impromptu kissing leap though. She is far more upset about Anon's agreement to this match as a whole, causing her to worry about him potentially getting hurt in the match.
>I do think it would be funny if he tried to ride at some point
Agreed, it would be. But it would have been too risky outside the simulation too.

>>41546884
>But it would have been too risky outside the simulation too.
perhaps when all the bugs are worked out, anon can nonsexually ride his wife

>>41547287
When #deca.mare is controlling her proxy again, yeah. Doing so while Firefly was in charge would have been the real risk in this situation.

>>41548331
>Anon giving Dash green ice cream
Should I be concerned about the ingredients?

>Mare on 10
No.

>>41549642
Fast board.

>>41550289
People keep making little shitpost threads that barely break double digits on the way down. Suppose it keeps folks on their toes at least.

File: 2259928__safe_tempest+sha(...).png (288 KB, 1700x2954)

288 KB PNG

>>41542160

File: Turning on the lava lamp.png (277 KB, 1010x804)

277 KB PNG

>>41551181
a cute plum

>>41552209
Are they watching obscure ad videos?

>>41552650
The home-shopping network is ever-present

>>41551124
I guess that was a side effect of the anni and the final faceplant of G5. It should slow down in the next days.

>>41545861
Be lucky.

>>41501575
She took Anon to a restaurant for dragons because it was the only place that served meat. Problem is they expect their customers to cook their own meat with their fire breath, so it's raw. The date is off to a rough start.

Mare indoctrination

>>41555181
In which way? Mares doing the indoctrination, or receiving it?

>>41555283
Mare "indoctrination" is a wholesome means of nurturing human minds, "reprogramming" the brain through physical and psychological conditioning using harmony fields, calm and reassuring whispers, and other subliminal methods. The Mare's resulting control over the limbic system leaves the victim highly susceptible to her affection.

Humans undergoing indoctrination may complain of heartaches and restlesness or tears in their eyes. As time passes, they have feelings of "being loved" and hallucinations of "pony" presences. Ultimately, the Mare gains the ability to use the victim's body to amplify her feelings, manifesting as "comforting" voices in the mind.

Indoctrination can create perfect deep cover agents. A Mare's "suggestions" can manipulate victims into converting friends, trusting anonymous posters, or viewing the Mare herself with superstitious awe. Should a Mare subvert a well-placed political or military leader, the resulting chaos can bring down nations.

Long-term physical effects of the manipulation are unsustainable. Higher mental functioning decays, ultimately leaving the victim a gibbering mareschizo. Rapid indoctrination is possible, but causes this decay in days or weeks. Slow, patient indoctrination allows the husbando to last for months or years.

>>41501534
Why does the mare like the man?

File: 2552525.png (575 KB, 1280x720)

575 KB PNG

>>41529300

>Oh, this is just like her.
>And yet, it also is characteristically unlike her.
>See, this isn't a shot at diplomacy. She doesn't want to talk. She's never wanted to talk. This is a show of force.
>You knew the pegasi scouts would be overhead tonight. Any fool would expect that much. You have no means of countering it completely — only mitigating their ability to gauge your strength by taking cover in the orchards.
>But for them to broadcast their presence in such a manner, on the very night of your arrival?
>It was bold.
>It symbolically puts her on the offensive. You held the proof right there in the palm of your hand: she's fired the first shot, even if it was only a warning.
>As you rise back to your feet, Ramses reads the note over your shoulder.
>"I'd say we send Zenobia," he says, "but she's already departed for Klugetown. I can go in her stead."
"No."
>You crumple the note and let it fall.
"She wants me."
>Harald looks around, uneased by the crowd of troops still surrounding you. "What are you louts standing around for? Take your posts!"
>As the legionaries disperse, Ramses leans in, lays a hand on your shoulder, and whispers, "maybe we ought to discuss this in the war room."
>Minutes later, you're seated upon your ornately carved wooden throne, behind the war table. Your legates stand opposite you, beseeching what you already know to be a lost cause.
>"I'm telling you, it's a trap," Harald grumbles. "A plot to get you out in the open and take you prisoner. They want to end this thing as quick as it's started."
>Ramses shakes his head. "Ponies are not so Machiavellian. They're above leveraging people as political capital. But I agree that it's just not worth the risk. With the fate of the war resting on your shoulders, you shouldn't set foot anywhere in enemy territory without a legion at your back."
>"I say we show up to their little chat with the entire army in formation. Give them an ultimatum. Either they lay down their arms and give us the city, or we reduce it to rubble."
"We still have Plan B."
>Harald snorts. "Only Zenobia is gone, with a single cohort. Bulwark can step up and lead her legion."
>Bulwark, your Primus Pilus — first centurion of the first cohort in Harald's legion. Your most senior officer, fighting under your flag before even the first legate joined your ranks.
>He's more than capable of leading a legion to battle himself, but that's besides the point. You have a different solution.
"We're taking Ponyville peacefully."
>"What's the point?" he gripes. "We outnumber them more than ten-to-one! You're wasting time when we could be rolling through the city right now!"
"No!"
>You rise suddenly from your seat, pushing your throne back. Harald falls silent.
>Ramses turns to Harald. "You know the Imperator's decree. Not a drop of blood may be spilled before we enter Canterlot."
>Harald lays his massive hands on the war table, leaning in towards you. "Waiting doesn't make a lick of sense."

>>41555936
>You stare down at the capital city carved into the table, seated upon the mountain that towers over the rest of the terrain.
"We need the leverage. We have a chance of winning this altogether without a single death. With their first casualty, any chance at negotiating their surrender dies with it."
>You turn your attention back to Harald, circling around the table.
"Your former king failed because he was a tyrant, hungry to empower only himself. Do you think it's by random chance that I've assembled the largest army in Equestrian history?"
>"Of course not," he retorts.
"It's because I am the Vox Populi. So listen when I speak: those creatures out there, they're not fighting for me. They're fighting for themselves. They will have their deliverance, and I will be the one to pry it from the Princess' grasp."
>"It's exactly because of what you represent to them that you shouldn't be put in harm's way," Ramses cautions.
"The opposite. They need a fearless leader who meets the enemy head-on, not a coward who sends an emissary."
>"It's your call," he replies, "but know that you're going against your legates' counsel."
"Duly noted."
>You wave your hand to dismiss them.
"I need to gear up before heading out. When I return, we proceed with the plan as discussed."
>Once you're finally alone, you approach your suit of armor resting on the mannequin, the dim flames of candlelight dancing, casting reflections off the brass and gold.
>She wants you?
>She's got you.

>The sun has just barely risen over the Everfree when you head out. The troops shout out honorifics and words of ardor as you walk through the castrum.
>Tax walks in line with you, making no effort to hide his nervousness on your behalf.
>At the camp's edge, the two legates stand to meet you.
>"Scouts are deployed in pairs along the riverbanks and at various positions around the city," Ramses says. "Given their preliminary reports, it's safe to say we beat any reinforcements here."
>"That won't last long," Harald grumbles.
>"The scouts are ready to give a call to arms at the first sign of trouble."
>Harald points to the direction behind you. "I put four cohorts in the West Orchard, ready to come charging over the hill."
"Gentlemen," you start, "I appreciate the concern, but it's going to be just fine."
>Ramses frowns. "I'd be remiss if I didn't advise you against this course of action one last time."
>"It's a fool's errand to go alone. They make one move and you're dead. You have a squadron of praetorians, and you expect that puny runt to keep you safe?" Harald glares at your valet, who shrinks behind your legs.
"My mind is made up. Come on, Tax."
>You don your helmet, feeling the cool metal slip over your face, and step past the legates, setting down the road into Ponyville.
>Finally out of earshot of the castrum, you find yourself breathing easier, the pressures of posturing as fearless commander melting away.
>As you round the corner, the city coming into view, you hear Tax speak up.

>>41555941
>"Is there a reason you're bringing me, sir?"
"Same reason I always do. To observe."
>As you march onward, the main bridge into town grows. In the faint light of dawn, a sole cloaked figure can be seen standing upon it. Waiting.
>Just as you reach the outskirts of town, you stop Tax.
"Wait here."
>"You don't want me going with you?"
"I want you watching, not listening. With deaf ears, the eyes see more."
>That's only a pretext, of course.
>Your gaze shifts back to the figure on the bridge, and you confess the real reason.
"Besides, it was only ever meant to be me and her."
>Leaving him behind at the side of the road, you approach the bridge, the low mist of early morning shrouding the scene.
>Though you don't see anyone but her, you can sense eyes from both sides of the river fixated on you.
>The first step onto the bridge yields a faint creak from the plank shifting beneath the weight of your armor.
>Your eyes are locked onto her as you gain the first real look you've had of her in thirteen long, arduous years.
>Ten feet from her, you stop, the two of you staring each other down.
>"Anon," she says, the curtest form of greeting that could only be surmised as a terse acknowledgment that you do, indeed, exist.
>So, in kind, you return the same, her name leaving your lips for the first time in as long as you can remember.
"Tempest."
>And then, silence.
>A long silence.
>The kind of silence that comes from neither of you having anything material to say to one another in spite of finding yourselves face-to-face after all this time.
>Because nothing's changed.
>But it's not much a parley if no one speaks, so, after a painstakingly long pause, one of you does.
>"Are you proud of yourself?" she asks.
>It was a fair question. Unwavering, you answer plainly.
"I was never one for pride."
>She glowers at you. "You're doing a terrible thing. I hope you know that."
"I see it differently."
>"I can't believe this is what you've come to. If I never saw you again, it'd be too soon."
"Why ask me here, then?"
>"Because I refuse to let either of us die before I say what I have to say to your face."
"Go ahead, then."
>She pauses a moment, then launches right into it, spilling thoughts that have clearly been brewing for a while.
>"You're despicable. There's not a single redeemable thing about you. You'd rather destroy the world than sacrifice an ounce of your happiness. You want to ruin paradise, why? Because you resent me? The princesses? Yourself? Instead of accepting that you got dealt a bad hand, you have to flip the table and spoil the game for everyone else?"
>Her breathing becomes labored with bitter acrimony.
>After a second, you reply.
"Are you done?"
>"No, I'm not," she spits back without hesitation. "I'll never be done. This is unforgiveable. You could have left well enough alone. But this is the path you chose. So now, so long as you breathe, I will never rest. I'll be the one who ends this petty rampage of yours. I will *bury* you."

>>41555942
>Slowly, you raise a hand and place it on your hilt. Drawing your sword out of the sheath, you bridge the gap between you.
>Though she doesn't move a muscle, you can feel both armies' collectively hold their breath from a thousand yards.
>Stopping in front of her, you stare her down, her steel green eyes locked with yours.
>Then, without warning, you kneel down, laying the weapon upon the bridge, at her hooves.
>As you rise back up, you address her.
"Go ahead, then."
>She chuckles grimly.
>"No. You're not getting off that easy."
"If you really want this to end..."
>"Do you really think I'm that stupid?" she cuts you off. "This crusade you've cooked up doesn't just die with you! No, you made damn sure of that. Believe me, I could cut your head from a mile out, but two more would just take your place, spouting the same bullshit. No. I won't give you the satisfaction. You want to be a martyr? Then fucking earn it."
>You find it hard to maintain your normally immutable demeanor when being cursed out.
>Most ponies avoid using language like that. It's seen as a crass behavior, pulled from Earth.
>Then again, she's not most ponies.
"I'm not doing this for myself. I'm doing it because I believe it's right. Don't act like you haven't seen the writing on the wall. We were stuck in the same boat. We wanted the same thing. Right up until you abandoned me."
>As soon as those words leave your mouth, an uncomfortable silence falls between you.
>"You told me to go," she says lowly. "You don't get to put that on me."
"I think I do. Because you're the reason I ended up here."
>She glances back at the town behind her, almost unrecognizable from the one that existed two days prior.
>"Don't you care?" she questions you. "If you let this go on, people are going to die."
"I don't take that lightly."
>"I'm sure you don't," she scoffs, vexed by your conviction. "Whatever it takes to get your way, right?"
>You don't answer. Nothing you say could change her perception of you at this point. Nor do you care enough to invest the effort it would take to accomplish such a feat.
>"You know, I knew it was you all along. Ever since I first heard about the so-called 'King of Klugetown', there was never any doubt in my mind. It was you, plotting revenge."
"You knew I was coming."
>"I did. Even if certain others didn't believe me."
>It all makes sense now. Why she was as prepared as she was for your arrival.
>Your one saving grace was that the princesses didn't think you capable of something like this.
>A mistake they'll come to lament. You'll make sure of it.
"I take it you got Twilight out of the city safely, then."
>"Oh, the contrary," Tempest replies. "She wouldn't sign off on my plan to pre-empt you weeks ago, but after Appleloosa, she's changed her tune. Within a matter of hours, the full might of Equestria will be bearing down on Ponyville."
>You clench your fists, sharply anticipating the reveal.

>>41555943
>"And you see, she's our insurance policy to buy us time before they get here."
>Tempest whips around and delivers a nod to the city, signaling some unknown entity.
>Almost immediately, a pillar of violet light shoots upward into the sky.
>From the top of the spire, a translucent dome materializes, taking shape as it slowly reaches down to touch the ground behind the barricades, enveloping Ponyville.
>Tempest turns back to you and smiles deviously. "Your move, Your Highness."
>Reaching down, you grab your sword off the bridge.
"You think that will stop me? Surely your scouts have gotten a glimpse of the extent of my forces by now. Twilight's one mare. No amount of magic can withstand an onslaught. She'll perish before the cavalry comes."
>"I guess we'll find out," she answers confidently.
"I'm giving you an out. Stand down now, and we'll leave the city untouched."
>Tempest maintains her poise, almost entertained by your offer. "We both know that's not happening."
"Then I'll see you on the battlefield."
>Sword in hand, you storm off, returning to Tax.
>He shifts anxiously when you reach him, put off by your body language and the scene that unfolded in front of him.
>"She's not surrendering, is she?" he asks.
"No," you answer. "Even better."

>Back at the castrum, you scale the still-smoking debris of the farmhouse.
>Buccinators sound their horns, summoning the legions for an audience at your direction.
>Your feet kick up ash, the charred beams cracking beneath your weight.
>As you reach the top of the pile, thousands upon thousands of troops have amassed around you to hear the results of your parley with the enemy.
>Harald and Ramses stand tall above the crowd, having heard the news for themselves just minutes earlier.
>You can see the disdain on their faces, clear as day, from a hundred yards.
>But it's not their call. It's yours.
"Boys!" you call out.
>The troops roar and cheer, stamping the ground and clanging their shields. You're certain the commotion can be heard from Ponyville; all the better.
>After a minute of clamoring, their bellows simmer down, and you speak once again.
"Too long have you suffered injustice and tyranny at the hands of Equestria. Millenia ago, the two princesses gazed out over this land and claimed it for their kind. Holding the source of all life hostage, they seized this world in the name of ponies. The lush forests and fertile fields were theirs and theirs alone. They took everything from you. It was their Manifest Destiny. Equestria was their birthright."
"They couldn't simply kill you. You were too tough, too prolific, and their morality too haughty to attempt a genocide. So what did they do? They exiled you. From sea to sea, far beyond anything their numbers could reasonably settle, they took the best lands all for themselves. They relegated you to the desert, the barren wasteland, hoping that, in time, the harsh elements would do what they didn't have the stomach for."

File: 2365298.jpg (275 KB, 1920x804)

275 KB JPG

>>41555945
"But you didn't die. All of you creatures, your ancestors clung to life and scraped together something inconceivable. You survived — no, you thrived — where they expected you to simply keel over and perish. You built a city, a metropolis, upon the dunes, rivaling anything Equestria had ever seen. You created technology ponies couldn't dream of, all because you worked together instead of clashing over resources like they expected."
"Ponies don't understand cooperation. Not like us. Everything they have was handed to them by their precious princesses. They think themselves superior because they're afraid of what it would mean if they weren't. If you pull the wool from their eyes, and show them they're not any more special than you or I, they crumble. That's their weakness."
"That's what we're doing here. They tried to pit us against one another, because only in chaos can they truly remain safe. For centuries, it worked. Alone, no faction could dare take them head-on. Many of you were there. You, yourselves tried."
>Harald frowns as the storm creatures of his legion howl and pound their chests.
"Even the one who led that charge on Canterlot now stands across the river, against us, back with her kind. Because mares have no convictions. They mold the world solely to keep themselves on top."
"Their system worked precisely as intended. Eventually, most bought into their propaganda. That ponies were unique amongst all. That they alone were fit to preside over Equestria, and all others who tried would be doomed to the same fate as those who tried before them. If, after thousands of years, no other civilization had ever settled Equestria, then ponies must have an unequivocal divine right."
>You pause for effect.
"Then came my kind."
>The crowd falls silent, hanging onto your every word. They know what's coming. You've given variations on this speech dozens of times. This rhetoric was the only way you were able to raise an army to begin with.
"As you all know, humanity is not native to this world. Over the past twenty-six years, we have been dragged here, one by one, without our knowledge, without our consent. All in the name of love. Now what could be more noble than that?"
>Boos and jeers emanate from the mob.
>You wear a soft smile.
"Now come on, ponies have a right to be happy too, don't they?"
>The crowd erupts in defiant declarations in the negative.
>You leap from the top of the pile, sliding down the rubble until you reach the ground. Raising an arm, you circle the gathered audience.
"For centuries, you were fed the narrative that Equestria is fit for ponies and only ponies. That any other people who tried to make it their home would plunge the world into chaos. Many of you believed the lies they fed you, through no fault of your own. Changelings, storm creatures, buffalo, zebra — every single attempt at rebellion had been quashed underfoot."

>>41555947
"Now they bring men here by the droves, and they expect you to believe that, coming from another world, we are the exemption."
>Fervidly, you roll up your sleeve and thrust your forearm out at the crowd.
"Look upon me! I am not divine. I am flesh and blood, just as you. The ground I stand upon is not my birthright. It was stolen from you and forced upon me."
>Dropping your arm, you pace back and forth before the front line.
"All other men accepted this gift. They were brought to a paradise and told they were special. They took their soul mate without question. In exchange for everything they ever dreamed of, they allowed themselves to be made pawns in the princess' game of control. But not I. I would not be tempted by the illusion of true love. I challenged the princess' authority. Knowing they could never send me back, they ostracized me to the place where they dump all their other problems."
"That was their biggest mistake. Because there, I found all of you. I discovered the truth. The men that we captured in Appleloosa, the men in Ponyville that cower behind their walls, they don't think of you. You're a footnote in the annals of Equestria. Nothing more. But now? Now, you're all they think about. You haunt their every waking moment. You've risen up. You've made your voices heard."
"Look at this face," you instruct them, removing your helmet. "It is the face of your enemy, and it is the face of your savior."
>The crowd bursts into raucous cheers once more.
"The princesses have time and time again proven themselves unfit to rule," you roar. "Clawing power away from one another in their squabbles, plunging the world into darkness over petty feuds. I've faced the commander of the Equestrian army. Ponyville's princess is determined to fight us, here and now."
>Troops bang their weapons against their shields, expressing their readiness for battle.
"We'll bring her the carnage she so desperately seeks."
>Harald, towering over the creatures around him, locks eyes with you. His disapproval is clear as day. He knows the truth.
>You're vamping for a battle you know will never come.
>In his eyes, your words are empty. He wants nothing more for them to be genuine, for you to lead the charge over the river and cut Twilight down.
>But that's how battles are won, not wars. The game you're playing is much larger than your legates can ever know.
>You'll win your way. It's not enough to chase fleeting victories. You have loftier goals than sheer brutalization.
>And in time, you'll enact them.
>You will defeat Tempest Shadow.
>You will have this land.
>You are Imperator Anonymous, first Emperor of Equestria.

File: 1720550262925841.png (818 KB, 1500x1500)

818 KB PNG

Don't trust the zebra mare. She will steal your heart and run.

>>41555949
so this is how it connects to /nmp/

File: Is this nigga serious.png (230 KB, 496x368)

230 KB PNG

>>41555947
>Ponies don't understand cooperation.
>
>>41555949
so what, is this some map game autist who's treating this like his personal game of Rome Total War because he sperged out and got himself exiled?
Also, pretty sure any of the humans in his POW camps are debating the best methods of killing him at this point for ruining their lives and probably hurting their wives and new families.

>>41555949
This Anon needs to have his ass kicked hard.

>>41555949
Very interesting. An Anon, who despite being given the mare of his dreams decided to fight back against this system, and is fighting humans like himself.

Is he truly the Vox Populi, with a message and a goal? Or is he just another tyrant? Can't wait to see the next part!

>>41557399
>to fight back against this system
Which system is my biggest question here. Is this some alt-Equestria where ponies wage war or something? If there are "rebellions" that have been put down. Dunno what can possibly happen to redeem this "creature lives matter" nigger anon, I guess we'll see.

>>41557434
spinning the literal soul-eating changelings as oppressed for being beaten out of their attempts at conquest smacked of propaganda and slander and with him revving this horde up with that kind of rhetoric, it's impossible there hasn't been blood already

>>41557434
Yeah, the story doesn't exactly make it clear, but if I had to guess, places like Appaloosa, where the ingedinous people (in that case, the Buffalo) were kind of thrown out of their homes, and tensions got out of hand as a result. That probably happened many times before. I think the rebellions were stuff like that, or the battles with the Changelings or the Yetis, ect. Plus we need to keep in mind that all that Anon says is probably propaganda, or skews the truth a little.

>Dunno what can possibly happen to redeem this "creature lives matter" nigger anon

I don't think he has to be redeemed. I think he seems like a pretty decent villian so far, with his calculating nature and oral abilities in speeches. It just begs the question why he would trade a life with beautiful mares and peace in Equestria, for a bunch of walking carpets and whatever else is in his army.

File: 1495384750652.png (569 KB, 1024x1024)

569 KB PNG

>>41557508
My guess is that he was tasked by the princesses to be a deep cover agent and gather the representatives of all the non-Equestrian filth around him for easier extermination. I guess that'd be the end justifies the means kind of situation since by this point his situation is pretty much irredeemable, much less deserving a chance to be happy. I'd say leave him to the justice of his own people but I'm not sure even the punishment other anons can come up with would be cruel enough.

>>41557508
>thrown out of their homes
The town was just built on buffalo migration trails, they didn't know at the time so thought the buffalo were just being assholes for not going around.
>>41557531
I dunno man, making him face the fact he burned half of (relative) paradise and he'll be alone for the rest of his life due to his own choices is pretty rough.
Odds are he'll just end up in Tartarus though or get stoned, but we might see the "he just made some mistakes, but we all make mistakes for our friends" redemption line.
Not sure where Discord is in all this, open war does seem like something he'd look into.

>>41557550
It's rough but not "putting happiness of every mare in town in danger" rough. Doesn't seem like he has any problems with being alone either (unless we really really buy into stoic villain being mistreated kind of upbringing), one man being mildly lonely isn't much of a punishment, it's a default state of everyone here on Earth already. Maybe if he were to be given a love potion and then magically forced to hallucinate his mare getting hurt for a decade in prison, maybe that'd be more appropriate.

>>41557582
You underestimate the amount of self-loathing someone can feel once they fully know they had the best possible life in their hands and they threw it away for nothing. Mildly lonely would not begin to cover it.
Though, him feeling like that is suspect anyway considering his response to everything was "fuck it, I'm Caesar now" instead of thinking "hey maybe I fucked up." But we'll just have to see where it goes. Hopefully it doesn't end up like the cadence torture special that got dropped before any proper payoff for it.

>>41557620
>Mildly lonely would not begin to cover it.
As I said he doesn't seem to care that much so it won't really matter. Most people already feel this way every day, this isn't punishment, it's reality. Either way it doesn't seem likely that someone from here got snatched to Equestria (without his consent, how dreadful!) and first thing he thought about was "hey why aren't you getting knotted or barbed instead, this is racism!". So I do hope it's gonna be something beyond him feeling sad deep inside but thinking he's too far gone, that's way too easy, just like leaving him alone as punishment would be.

Mare does not belong on 10.

>>41558501
That's right, mare belongs in my bed.

>>41558604
Only one mare though.

File: 1497042565575.png (847 KB, 1262x1282)

847 KB PNG

>>41558757
One mare is all I need.

>>41557207
hug the mare

>>41555949
I wonder how this Anon feels about the fact that other humans probably think he's a larping faggot and want him dead

>>41558977
Likely not at all. He doesn't strike me as the kind of guy who would reflect on something like this.

>>41558943
snug the mare

>>41526733
>>41546879
As I said earlier, I am planning to make a few alterations to the chapter 165 text and the side story on Ponepaste. It's in essence the wording of two passages which gets changed slightly in the main story in order to clear up some potential misunderstandings, and a minor rephrasing of the side story's chess scene to disentangle the timeline.
Normally I would do the change first and then post about it here, but considering that this will show two apparent updates on Ponepaste, I'm doing it the other way round this time so that you know about the notifications in advance and don't get fooled when they pop up.
And yes, I haven't forgotten about the side story. It's still on my radar and I want to continue it too, but that could still take a while, given my current speed.

The changes are as follows:

Chapter 165:
Old:
>Though in this case it is only a real restriction for her, as it is almost impossible for you to hurt her, and much less significantly so.

New:
>Though in this case it is only a real restriction for her, as it is almost impossible for you to hurt the proxy, and much less significantly so.

Old:
>But at the same time, you have never seen Firefly acting this soft before.
>Not even close.
>It is a side she has never shown in public.

New:
>But at the same time, you have never seen Firefly acting this amorous before.
>Not even close.
>She has never shown her romantic side this openly in public.

2077.5
Old:
>"You said your wife taught you the game."
"Yes. And?"
>"And you played for a while, I presume."
"So we did."
>"But not anymore?"
"Not in the recent..."
>What was it, decades?
"... years."
>"Why did you stop?"
"Because the games were always lopsided when she played seriously. And if she doesn't give it all, well, it just feels like she is letting me win."
>A pause.
"There was no point in playing more matches because there was no excite..."

New:
>"You said your wife taught you the game."
"Yes. And?"
>"And you played for a while, I presume."
"So we did."
>"But not anymore?"
"Not much in the recent..."
>What was it, centuries?
"... years."
>"Why did you stop?"
"Because the games were always lopsided when she played seriously. And if she doesn't give it all, well, it just feels like she is letting me win. It's still fun to have casual games once in a while, but not all too often."
>A pause.
"And there was no point in playing any actual competitive matches because there was no excite..."

>>41559914
noted

Mare up.

File: Snuggle your mayor.png (115 KB, 319x466)

115 KB PNG

>>41561284
mayor up

>>41561805
>Man and mare in one shirt
That cloth is damn spacious.

File: 1511131297965.jpg (2.2 MB, 1999x4940)

2.2 MB JPG

>>41561895
Secret mare technology

>>41562245
Smart mare.

File: 5p.jpg (112 KB, 771x972)

112 KB JPG

>>41562812
I do indeed love it when the mare is smart.

>>41563334
>Twilight with these glasses
Hnnngh

Wake up, guys.

File: 3402325.jpg (2.13 MB, 2732x2048)

2.13 MB JPG

>>41564398

>>41564425
Jeez why are you so loud in the morning, anon? You woke up the mare.

File: 1673864857106843.jpg (434 KB, 1106x1024)

434 KB JPG

>>41564398
No, we sleep.

>>41564478
The mare was sleepwalking into the archive. I couldn't have that.

File: 577383.jpg (182 KB, 650x800)

182 KB JPG

mare

File: 1727975840243480.png (680 KB, 1280x720)

680 KB PNG

>Get matched with pic related
>The moment she realizes she can help you better than any nurse because she's trained to treat more than just ponies

>>41566054
but has she ever worked on a monkey

I vil NOT hug ze mare

>>41566548
There is a smaller ape in the sanctuary. But it's from the non canon seasons.

>>41566765
don't worry, so are we (noncanon)

File: Screenshot 2024-10-22 224100.png (3 KB, 294x156)

3 KB PNG

Nigger, what?

>>41567619
if you're on a new IP or something then it makes you sit on your ass for 10~15 minutes
kinda retarded especially when you try to make a new thread.

>>41567641
Lovely. My IP resets every day.

>>41567641
>>41567675
Yep this happened to me, but it gave me the option to either wait it out or send a confirmation email, and by confirming it skips the wait.

>>41567675
on the bright side, it's only the first time you try to post, after that it works as normal.

>>41567695
>'confirmation email'
And the three letter agencies say thank you.

>>41567619
Oh they increased it from 300 sec? Fuck Hirosima Nagasaki.

>>41567783
>it's only the first time you try to post
It's not. If you delete cookies and such upon the closure of the browser, you get smacked with the 15 minute timer again. This isn't IP bound.

File: nightponk.png (12 KB, 800x600)

12 KB PNG

>>41568394
>a minute later

>>41569928
Cute

>>41569641
I see
I don't empty the cookie cache that regularly so I guess I never noticed.

>>41555347
You make it sound like rabies or some shit

>>41566765
It's canon

File: 1527961162466.gif (2.07 MB, 800x767)

2.07 MB GIF

>>41570276
Well it is called indoctrination.

Up.

>>41520716
how much do we think these ponies weigh? Ive seen some discussion surrounding their height/size but not their weight.
Basically how much do I need to be able to lift before I can carry my wife celly around on my back?

File: accurate_scale_model.jpg (2.31 MB, 4032x3024)

2.31 MB JPG

>>41572100
My guess is 100-200 lbs, with pegasai at the lower end and earth ponies at the higher.
Celestia is 0-1000 lbs, depending on if she is an actual physical object. If she is, 500-1000 lbs, since she's twice the size of a normal pony. Factoring in differences between canon, fanon, up to 1500, depending on how much booty she has.k0vv8j

>>41572179
So I just need to be able to squat like 1000lbs.
I better get to work...

>>41572179
You're also discounting the possibility of humans getting the John Carpenter of Mars treatment for going to Equestria, which would allow them to lift things they normally wouldn't due to how physics may work there.
Just imagine going there with a basic level of fitness and being able to toss your wife over your shoulder like a bag of rice and run off home with her.

>>41572299
Well, yeah. Humans may be magically weak, but they are more susceptible to The Power Of Love.
You could probably hold your mare over your head and run through town.

>>41572339
>do the bomb run scene from Adam West's Batman, but with your wife
would be funny

>>41572179
>Celestia is 0-1000 lbs, depending on if she is an actual physical object
I'd be disappointed if she isn't.

File: Spoiler Image (2.38 MB, 1358x2013)

2.38 MB PNG

>>41501534

>>41573203
>Posted by a bugfag
Where's the trap?

>>41516792
My folder is full of her with me, the best thing happen flutterfriends is call stable difussion.

>>41570276
But it's wholesome rabies. That makes it okay.

>>41572179
Nah, I don't think they're that much, it's be ridiculously dense.

Mare bump.

>>41576604
This image looks concerning when you see it before reading the file name first.