The Temple and Monastery of Harmony ((Sign-up RP - Not a Jump In))

[ArtVeigar]

OOC: http://forum.legendsofequestria.com/index.php?topic=9060.0
Sign-up: http://forum.legendsofequestria.com/index.php?topic=9073.0

[glow=#b8860b,2,300]The Temple and Monastery of Harmony. Since long, it has been the paradise for those who wish to devote their lives to learn all the ways and the secrets of Harmony. It exists almost as long as me and Luna, being founded short after the fall of Discord and his reign of chaos. They have discovered uncountable applications for the harmonic energy that surrounds the world, to the fields of medicine to the ones of martial arts, and in it's entirety these applications are called by the name of Harmonic Arts. Today, their monks are either teaching the next generation at the Monastery or scattered around the world as missionaries, helping any soul in need and asking nothing in return. Since it's beginning, it has been of great help to maintain the harmony of today's society. As it should be noticeable by now, We have always kept in contact with them, to discuss the most diverse issues about Our reign and society. The greater monk, known as Grandmaster Guang, is not only a wise ally, but also a precious friend of mine.

But since two weeks ago, We have not heard a single word from or about them. Our letters cannot make it's way through the magical flames, and to make it worse, even the scouting party We have sent to investigate has been lost. That is why We have gathered you all here. We ask for your help to investigate the whereabouts of the scouting party, and to gather information about what happened to the Temple and Monastery of Harmony. But be aware: We don't know what dangers lies ahead. Of course, you can refuse this mission if you don't want to go. We will understand perfectly. But if you choose to accept it, We will be thankful from the bottom of Our hearts.[/glow]

The two Royal Sisters stood regally in front of the recruted adventurers. Their expression were hard to read, seeming to have a mix of peace and sorrow. The colorfull audience hall of the Royal Castle was filled with their powerful but calming and hamornic aura.
A line of royal guards stood behind the adventurers. Some of them muttered among themselfs, amazed by how young some of them seemed to be. But of course, they wouldn't doubt their Princesses' choice on this matter.

[glow=blue,2,300]If We could, We would join you in this quest. But as you might know, We have our royal duties to fulfill. That is why We came to ask for you aid. If you have any concerns about this task, please, speak freely. And those of you who wish to help, step foward.[/glow]

[SuperNovaNightmare]

Both Froth Spiral, and Phoenix, took a step forward, and bowed.

"I would be honored to be of service."

Phoenix said.

"As well as I, if, that is, I could."

Froth said, quietly and nervously.

[The Stars]

Price looked down to his niece and nephew before him, both staring up at the sight before them. It had honestly been the first time they've met the princesses, being stricken in awe at the sight of superior authority. The changeling looked at the two young ones, a bit worried himself at how they agreed to assist in the mission in the first place. He couldn't say no, but now after the speech, he's curious if they even want to serve anymore. He kneeled down before them and asked, "Hey, you two... How are you holding up?"There was a delay in their response at first, still focused on the princess's in their beauty and flowing manes. "Polar, Star?" Price asked again, making sure they're ok.
Their attention averts from the Princesses, looking back at their uncle. "Huh? O-Oh, Yeah! I'm ready and waiting!" The young filly said with pride, her twin brother nodding with her.
Price smiles and huddles them together for a big hug. "Hah, As enthusiastic when I was your age..." He paused for a moment then broke the hug and looks them dead in the eyes. "But... Please, if there's anything you can't handle... Anything at all, you tell me, alright?" He asks of them. They nod yes and once again, Price hugs them, except a bit tighter this time.

Reluctantly breaking the hug once more, Price stood up to the Princesses and saluted, his niece and nephew mimicking the same action. "I would be honored to see the lines of battle once again, Your highnesses... Gets a bit boring dealing with paperwork and politicians, get what I mean?" Price says, winking at the Princesses into hoping they'd get what he meant.
Suddenly the foals climb up his back and seem to roughly announce their speech to the princesses as well. "Yeah! We're gonna get the job done nice and easy!" Said Polar.
"Nothin's gonna stand in our way!" Black Star joined in.

[ArtVeigar]

Princess Celestia smiled at the children's excitement. So innocent and full of energy, something you can't find in most of full grown ponies. She looked at each of the present ponies, and stopped her eyes when they met the one who still seemed indecisive. The light gray unicorn with a ying yang cutie mark and an odd black mane and tail with white spots that seemed to move along it froze. Looking directly at the eyes of a goddess, he felt so little, but so at ease at the same time. Just her gaze seemed to wash away any worries and cover him with an invisible force field, shielding him from any bad in the world. It was like a mother's embrace. But deep within those eyes, he could feel something else. A feeling that shouldn't be there. Was it insecurity? Worry? He couldn't figure it exactly, but he knew this event taking place at the Temple and Monastery is definitely affecting her. He didn't know why or how he was there, he didn't know if he could be of any help at all. In his eyes, he was just an average unicorn living isolated from the world. But how could he stay quiet while the all mighty Princesses humbly ask him for his help? And even worse, with those eyes?

Shaking his insecurty aside, he stepped foward and kneeled. - "Your.. Your Highnesses can count on me."

The royal princesses looked at each other, smiled and nodded. Looking back to them, Princess Luna started the instructions. - [glow=blue,2,300]"Very well. If no one has anything to say or to ask, you shouln't delay any longer. First, our guards will escort you to the Hollow Shades, home of the Night Ponies, closest town to the foot of the Foal Mountain, where the Temple and Monastery of Harmony was built. There, a young mare called Tian Long will be waiting. She is an apprentice of the Harmonic Arts who was away from the Monastery to know more about the outside world. She will guide you up the mountain to the Temple, and there you will report anything strange or unusual."[/glow] - The Moon Princess looked to her side while one of her royal guards came with six purses over a pad. Each purse contained two quills, a long scroll that can be divided in smaller pieces, a bottle of ink and a strange orb. Each orb contained a green fire inside it, and a small hole on top.
Each orb was hoofed to each adventurer, and it was the turn of Princess Celestia to continue the instructions.

[glow=#b8860b,2,300]"These orbs contain the Eternal Fire of Communication. It is a spell that allows the user to teleport anything burned by it to the original flame, that is within this castle. It is the only way of communication that doesn't rely in living beings transporting the letter personally. If you find anything you need to report, use them."[/glow] - She raised a hoof, pointing the exit. - [glow=#b8860b,2,300]"Now, go. May harmony be with you wherever this quest leads you. And again, thank you."[/glow]

The guards behind the adventurers reorganized themselfs, clearing their path toward the doors of the audience hall.

[The Stars]

Price's ears shot up when he heard the name, 'Tian' With a small smirk, he turns around and turns to his two young companions and said, "Well, Let's get going. Wouldn't want to keep the lady of the hour waiting." He begins falling out of the grand hall and makes his way to the guards awaiting everypony. Along the way, the young filly decides to look up to her uncle and notices the smirk on his face.
"Do you know Ms.Long?" She asked.
"Know her? Hah," He chuckled , "She's an old friend I got to know about a year back. She's that mare that taught me that barrier I showed you guys."
"Oh, she must be really nice if she knows you, right?" Black Star asks.
"Aye, she is... Although I'm curious as to how she feels about taking on this mission. I know she doesn't believe in senseless violence, torturing of others, no matter what the life form... There's a chance we might have to get our hooves dirty out there, and I know she probably doesn't want to repeat her actions in Tartarus. Despite that, I was thankful she did all she could to keep us safe and keep her morals in check at the same time." Price said, thinking to himself aloud. "And that's also why I'm so worried about you two... I know you two asked to come here willingly, but as soon as we make it out into the open, whatever happens here on out is the real deal... I want you two to stay close to me, alright?" He says, causing the both of them to groan a bit. "Please, just hear me out on this. I just want to evaluate you first; Get to know where you're good at."
"And after that, we can do as we want?" Polar asks. Price nods and in return, The two young foals smiled.
"Just remember... Keep on the right track; don't let your actions redefine the kind of equine you are.

[SuperNovaNightmare]

Phoenix and Froth turned to leave behind the other three. Phoenix patted Froth on the head, in which he flinched greatly after the first tap, but caught himself for the rest. Phoenix sighed.

"Well, you do seem to have warmed up to me. Hah.

She said. Froth shuddered at the word "warm".

"You know how I hame around fire. Though, yes I am getting used to you."

Froth replied, taking a uneasy look at his care-taker.

"Are you sure you want to go with me? I'm sure I would be fine..."

Phoenix cut him off.

"I can't bear the thought of you running off alone. I may just be your care-taker in your eyes, but I feel like i'm your bigger sister, which is funny, because we're basically opposites."

She said. Froth grew quiet after that, but she knew he was thinking the same thing. And he was, he felt the same way. But another thought dropped into his head. The memory of his father. He seemed like he was an expert with fire, for the soft glow he had. They both walked side by side, not saying another word.

[ArtVeigar]

Arty was the last one to follow, staying behind the others. Waiting for them right at the door were two guards: a white female pegasus with golden mane and tail and eyes as blue as the sky, and a black male night unicorn with silver mane, tail and eyes. They both opened the tall door and saluted the adventurers.

"Good afternoon, adveturers! I'm captain Skylight of the Sun Royal Guard, and this is captain Nightwalk of the Moon Royal Guard. We wil be responsible for escorting you to the Hollow Shades. It's a pleasure to meet you!" - Skylight said with a cheerful voice, giving a wide smile to the adventurers.

"If you, please, follow us we will show you your carriage." - Just like a perfect opposite, Nightwalk's face was gloomy and almost looked like angry, with a rispid and deep voice. His silver eyes seemed to stare right into the soul of those aimed by them.

"Don't mind his tone, he's actually a really cute colt inside." - The mare whispered back to the party, what Nightwalk only replied with an even angrier face. - "Reeeeally deep inside."

[The Stars]

Price chuckles at the kind guardsmare. "Eh, I won't mind him. Just... Don't let him touch the kids." He says. The luggage he seemed to be carrying was quite seemingly heavy: Two leather suitcases, identical in length but larger than an average case, indicating Price packed something more than cloths in there. Whatever it was, it seemed to jumble around and makes some metal clings every time he moved; possibly a few weapons. Aside from that were his saddlebags that were filled with other essentials, same goes for Polar and Star's equipment on hoof. Before continuing on, Price thinks to himself, muttering out, "10 days till then..." Before looking into his saddlebag, making sure he has the equipment he needs. Sighing in relief, that does seem to be the case. For what he may have inside that saddlebag, be prays it will be enough for what could happen in 10 days.

[ArtVeigar]

Without looking back, Nightwalk led the group across the corridors of the castle. There, the adventures could see the stained glass containing the most important facts of Equestrian history, like the first and second fall of Discord, the banisment of Nightmare Moon, the reappearance of Sombra and his fall caused by a purple and green baby dragon, others with unknown characters of various species, and others still blank.

As he passed by, Arty started to subconsiously slow his pace, staring at each mosaic with curious eyes. He remembered some of this facts from school, but others are totally unknown to him. And the blank glasses made him wonder about the future, and if this quest could grant them an image there. Without noticing, his movement has dropped to near zero, and that's when he heard the deep and rispid voice of Nightwalk calling ahead.

"Keep moving. We don't have time to lose." - He turned his head slightly, and his stare made Arty almost sprint back to him and the others.

"You should be a little nicer to them, don't you think? How about trying to smile a little?" - Skylight had lifted herself from the ground, floating in front of Nightwalk and poking his face, trying to force a smile. He did nothing more than keep staring at the pegasus with cold eyes. Even if he looked like a naturally angry pony, his patience with Skylight was something amazing, to say the least.

Finally, they have reached their destination. The front gate was opened, and outside a carriage big enough to fit everyone of them was outside. - "This is it! Isn't it beautiful?" - She pointed to the carriage. It was mostly pink, with details in purple and gold. It really seemed to be worth of royalty. - "You can put your luggage just there, at the side of the carriage, that it'll be picked for you, and then you can make yourselfs confortable! It won't take long to reach the Hollow Shades, but it's no reason for having an unconfortable trip, don't you think?" - The white pegasus said in her cheerful tone, while she and Nightwalk went to the sides of the carriage, opening it's door for the adventurers.

[The Stars]

Price chuckles at Skylight as he set his equipment down and turns to her. "Well hey, might be comfortable for us but what about the rest of the guards escorting us there?" He says, giving a friendly smile. For a changeling, Price did seem to differ much from his entire race in terms of attitude. He along with the foals sat down together after he made his small joke and awaits transportation.

[SuperNovaNightmare]

Froth and Phoenix quickly load their equipment, and climb aboard their mode of transport. Knowing that they would probably be together for a while, Phoenix decided to make some small talk.

"Hello! My names Phoenix, and this here..."

She points a hoof at at her companion.

"is Froth Spiral. Don't mind him, he's kinda shy around new ponies."

She concluded. Froth looks away, trying to hide his embarrassment.

[The Stars]

Price gave their full attention to Phoenix  and nods before greeting. "Nice to meet you, Phoenix, Froth. Name's  Price. These two little guys," He says, placing a hoof over both their heads and rubs them back and forth. "Are my niece and nephew."
The young colt started first, peeking over to the side of Price to see the two ponies better and waves before saying, "My name is Black Star."
"And my name is Polar Allurement!" His sister jumps in after him. They both gave Froth a friendly smile, trying to see if he could open up to them a little more first.

[ArtVeigar]

"It wouldn't be an escort if we just sat our flanks over those extremely confortable seats and chatted, would it? Even if it really does sound tempting..." - The captain of the Sun Royal Guards really seemed to ponder about it, until she heard Nightwalk cleaning his throat. - "But of course, we can't do it. Nu-uh, we have our duty." - She shook her head as a negative sign, then turned to her Sun guards. - "So, come on, colts! Get in position!"

"You all as well, soldiers!" - His voice got even more rispid while giving an order to his Moon guards, the opposite of the always cheerful tone of Skylight. All the night ponies and pegasi there, four of each race, marched toward the front of the carriage and each one got in their respective position, ready to pull, right after finishing loading the back of the carriage with the adventurers luggage. The captains closed the carriage doors as the last of the adventurers entered and both went to the driver's seat.

Arty got himself a seat at Phoenix's side. - "I... I'm Arty Brightshadow. Nice to... Nice to meet you all!" - The unicorn said with a timid smile, trying to get along well with his new companions even if he isn't used to be around others.

[SuperNovaNightmare]

Froth saw what they were trying to do, and it worked, sort of. He nudged Phoenix for putting him on the spot like that.

"Hi."

That was all he could manage before ducking behind Phoenix, and began to think deeply. Phoenix just rolled her eyes.

"Well, at least he said something before hiding. Hi Arty, its a pleasure to meet you!"

She said, making a big smile.

[The Stars]

Price nodded off to Arty and replied, "Good day, Mr. Brightshadow." The two young ones simply waved over to Arty, not having much to say at the moment.

[ArtVeigar]

the pegasi and night ponies started to pull the carriage. After reaching the necessary speed, they setted flight and directed it North first, what will change to East after they have gotten past the Foal Mountain. It would be too risky to go directly there. Even if they were at a fast speed for such a big carriage, it's movements were smooth, and it almost looked still from inside.

But Arty was still feeling unconfortable. Not because of the flight, but for not being alone after so long. But aside from this feeling and a good level of nervousness, he actually couldn't distinguish his feelings, as they were still adapting to the other's.

Noticing the annoying sound of silence coming from inside the carriage and knowing that nothing should threat their flight in this travel, she couldn't keep herself from talking again. - "Hey guys, you're all adventurers, right? Have you ever visited the Hollow Shades before? The place is so beautiful at this time of year..."

"Actually, I... Uhm... I'm not an adventurer at all. I've never gone actually gone anywhere besides Canterlot and Ponyville." - Arty said, his voice coming out low, but understandable and with less pauses than usual. It seems it was easier to reply to someone who isn't staring directly at him.

The flight will last about one hour, time enough for the adventurers to get to know each other a little more, if they want to. Otherwise, the flight will be quiet and peaceful, besides random commentaries from someone who doesn't stand the silence, and the adventurers will barely take notice they'll have arrived.

((In other words, timeskip if everyone desires))

[The Stars]

(( Hm, I'm good either way. ))

"To be honest, not so much adventurer, but I'm Ambassador of Chrysalis's hive as of current day. You might have heard about the recent treaty - Everypony as of late has been trying to downplay that bit of news the past few months, but the basic rundown of the matter is that many of us felt there was a need for a new ruling over the hive, somepony who could represent them as a symbol of righteousness... Soooo, the best they could pick up was is the Ex-commander of our Reconnaissance branch..." Price says, pausing for a moment and then chuckling about it afterwards. "I've never gotten over how absurd the thought of it is : Me, a soldier that's been AWOL since the beginning of the Canterlot invasion suddenly becomes a political leader within his homeland... Well, I guess my relations with Equestria is what became my saving grace... That and your mother." Price said, picking up his niece and nephew and starts to hug them tightly, the both of them laughing as they try to escape his grip. "That's right, she and her brother have done more for me and my hive than I could even repay them. Without them, the entire hive would have just been left to rot in their own hysteria and aggression due to withdrawal."

[SuperNovaNightmare]

((same here))


Phoenix and Froth, who was still behind her, listened to what they said.

"Well, i'm not to much of an adventurer, but Froth has been looking for his father, and when I ran into him, I said I would help. This is more of a side mission for him, but he does hope to get something out of this."

Said Phoenix, who felt Froth getting out from behind her.

"Phoenix! You know I was gonna say that! Ugh, but yes, she is right, I really really hope to find something during this that might help me in my search."

Froth said, a little mad at Phoenix for going off like that.

[The Stars]

The young one's ears rings when Froth finished speaking "Fa...Ther..." Polar asked, her brother looking at her. She seemed to be thinking about something, lost in her thoughts about her own father. She looks to Price and proceeds to ask. "Who... What was our father like, uncle?" The question, it seemed inevitable, throwing Price into a bit of surprise at first. He seemed somewhat nervous and looked away.
"Him..." He said. "Well... We all don't like to talk about him all that much. He was a nice pony, assuredly, but something about him just...  It rubs me the wrong way." They seemed to be at a loss for understanding Price, unsure of what he means. "Every time I passed him, I wasn't really sure if he was equine even... His unusual actions, his absence and odd appearances, his own magic... I've never stood next to somepony with a mana matrix so unstable that the laws of physics just seemed to... well, not apply to him."
To no avail, it didn't help them understand any better about what kind of pony he was. "What do you mean?" Black Star asked.
"I've seen him capable of levitation, silent teleportation, even teleportation of items without having visual sight of their location; I'm not even sure if many high-ranking unicorns had the capability or knowledge of such spells... Something about him..." He says, shaking his head. "I know I'm repeating myself, but what else can I say? Just... He was different... Something about that made me and your other uncle very... very suspicious of him."

[ArtVeigar]

"Hum... This guy seems to be interesting... The smartest and most powerful ones are almost always the craziest ones, too. I wonder why..." - Skylight turned to Nightwalk and poked him - "You must know it, right? Being one of them yourself." - She poked him a little more, while he just ingored her until she gave up. - "But you are no fun at all!"

Meanwhile, Arty was staring out the window, gazing at the landscape. The day was clear, with just a few clouds in the sky. They were over a barely habitated area, so just a few houses with small plantations, probably only for subsistence, could be seen from up there. They could see the moutain where Canterlot was built being left behind, and the silhouette of the Foal Moutain in front of them. From there, it didn't seem to be happening anything unusual. The actual topic of the conversation made him think back about the family he had left behind. He wondered if they were okay, and how they reacted about him gone missing. - "I wonder if I can come back one day..." - He thought out loud.