Legends of Equestria - Forum

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  Calender
  The 7th Year of the return of the moon; The 5th of the 9th moon. Year 1874 of the Equestrian Empire.

  Plot
  Another glorious September day in Canterlot, the sun layed it's golden rays upon the city, gentle warm rays. The entire city seemed in high spirits, the fine weather tempered with a small increase in the economy got everyone looking on the 'sunny side' of life. A small parade had been half-mashed together; a celebration of another Equestria saving feat by the resourcefull group of six ponies who had become heroes in the past few years. A cheerful Aurora made itself clear thoroughout the sky, sealing in the happy feeling of the day.

  During this cheerful celebration something decidedly less merry was occuring on 17th Hoof Avenue, Suite 33, Apartment 4B. At frist it seemed like nothing more than normal Saturdawn shanenigans. The awakenings of an apartment . . .  That is until the entire building caught fire. It was a miraculous fire, it burned bright and fast turning the entire apartment complex to rubble in minutes then dieing immedietly afterwards. No-one had been in that apartment, no pony had been harmed. But the origin of the fire, apartment 4B, had been the destined meeting place for quite a few ponies.

  Apartment 4B was Green Strokes and company's temporary lodging and where he had directed several ponies to meet him . . . for 'research' into some kind of matter that affected all pony-kind.  And where was Strokes now? Where were his trusted comrades and associates?

  Plot
  A few days later this account was published in 'Equestria National': ". . . This fire has puzzled the Canterlot Fire- Brigade. It's inital point of origin seemed to come from beneath one of the apartment's beds . . . Of course the apartment was utterly demolished and because of the great splay of rubble the Brigade cannot be sure if this WAS the initial origin of the inflamation but it is the most likely."

  The news then placed out a small question: "Where is Strokes and Company?" This small inquiry was quickly retracted by the evening addition, with a statment explaining: Strokes probably left on another adventure.

Important Character Information
  For characters other than journalists or aristocrats, who happened to be within Canterlot, this information will NOT be available to you. Not until you head to Canterlot. For those of you who do not wish to start off in Canterlot we will need to start a few days BEFORE the newspapers release this information. I'm planning on the first few posts from characters being a little . . . off 'in the time-stream' but by the time we start devling into the plot, which I hope will be shortly, we will all be temporally aligned.

  Remember you have all read about Strokes' 'plea' for assistance, in the newspapers. And he's left directions to his temporary residence, in that article.

       

((Ok I guess ill be the first then forgot the brackets my apologys))

Ryo gets off the train from Ponyville to Canterlot stretching as he gets off

"Hmmm man that was hard work, to think I had to go that far out for a research book and, then have to help out, oh well"
Ryo looks up to check the time of day and weather

It was a glorious day... of absolutely dull work, again.  The auroras in the sky helped, but it was hard to feel all too cheerful when some band of miscreants or another had gone and made a prank on your lecture hall, painting the walls bright neon yellow and putting joy-buzzers under all the students' seats.  Dr. Feather Scroll, PhD, professor of Inter-Magical Forces, was not having a good day.

After finishing the last few pages of paperwork and submitting the formal complaints to the Academy secretary for review, the glum unicorn sighed, shaking his head as he made his way to the university lavatories.  When he finished his business, he got a cup of black coffee from the food court for his headache.  He bumped into a colleague as he was about to leave the campus.

"Oh, hello there, Dr. Scroll!  Off to see your wife?"

"And get some rest," smiled the scholar tiredly.

The other pony chuckled understandingly.  "Bad day?"

"Like you wouldn't believe.  Well, what can you do.  At least I'm still walking freely under Celestia's sun."

"So very true.  I'll see you around, Feather, got a class to teach.  Say hello to Juniper for me, would you?"

"Sure thing!" called the professor after the other pony with a smile.  Spirits lifted a bit, he hailed his usual cab.

As the carriage bumped over the well-paved roads of Canterlot, Feather made some small conversation with the cabby, discussing the particulars of urban development and changes in tastes with modern architecture.  He was surprised to learn that a building had burned down not far from the Academy, but that was just odd news, unfortunate but not entirely unexpected or unnatural.  Thanking the kind pony as he got off at the station, he gave the cabby a tip before entering the station.  Construction had thankfully ended, and the station was looking much better than before, especially with the brand-new tiles and murals on the wall.  He smiled when he saw the Academy listed as one of the sponsors for the decoration, though of course the Fancy Pants Foundation For Youth was at the top of the list of contributors.

As he showed his Academy identification forms to the guards and got aboard, the unicorn picked up a free tabloid from the bench out of boredom and got to reading it.  Sandwiched between the story about the Princesses being aliens from Tartarus and the one about the auroras being mind-control rays was a brief story thrown together about arsonist assassins hired by Fancy Pants to burn down random houses for no reason.

Feather threw the piece of trash down in disgust.  The quality of writing itself was terrible enough without delusional ponies going off about some conspiracy or another.  The pony sitting across from him seemed interested in the tabloid, though, and offered to trade papers.  Seeing as that the other paper was the Equestria National, which usually cost bits the professor wasn't too willing to spend, Feather quickly accepted and got to reading about the latest news concerning the out-of-nowhere empire up north.  Somewhere buried in the back pages was an advertisement by some Sir Green Strokes or another offering money for research into something, but the scholar was perfectly fine with his job, and skipped the page after glancing at the title.  Sure, the pony recognized the name as a somewhat obscure author, but he had his own problems to deal with, such as getting some rest before heading to the laboratory tomorrow.

As the train whistled into Ponyville station, the professor thanked the pony who lent him his paper and exited, looking over the crowd of ponies for a particular mare.  She found him first, as usual; he could tell her mischievous giggle anywhere.

"Hey, Feather, if you keep standing there staring your eyes might dry out," came the teasing voice.

The pony in question whirled around and did a mock impression of shock before laughing and embracing his wife.

"Nice to see you too, Juni."

The green mare hugged back, then withdrew and looked at his face.  "Bad day?"

Feather sighed.  "Yeah."

"Well, let's cheer you up then with a little something special.  Does spaghetti with turnips sound good?  My treat."

The professor beamed, nuzzling his wife.  "You always know my tastes, Juni."

She smiled back.  "It's what I'm here for."

Together, they walked slowly to the restaurant, making cheerful, quiet conversation.  Afterwards, the couple spent the evening walking in the park, and then returned to their home.  Lying in bed, Feather smiled.  It was a glorious day.

Morning Glory winced and wiped another glob of bird vomit off her cheek. She grumbled under her breath, and continued her work, horn glowing green as she swept her magic over the entirety of the large glass aviary. She felt something wet splatter on to her ear from above and a great ire towards her beloved uncle simmered deep in the back of her head. She didn't care how badly he need to make nice with the senator from Fillydelphia, this was asking too much.

Seizing several animals in the gentle grip of her magic, she brought them before her and lined them up on a perch at eye level. Seven ragged, wheezing, bleary-eyed birds leered at her. She leered right back, then one by one, examined them, both with hooves and horn. For her efforts she received a myriad of bites and scratches and more unmentionable substances applied to her coat, but she did at least have a clue as to what ailed them.

Trotting over to the food dishes lined up along one wall, she took an experimental sniff and backed away rapidly, covering her nose. Her eyes then lifted skyward, where the heavenly aurora could be seen. The majority of the aviary's glass ceiling would receive direct sunlight throughout the day.

Finally, she turned to the anxious pegasus waiting outside. Strolling through the door she gave him a reproachful look. "Change their food dishes more often. With fresh food. The summer heat is making it all spoil." She gazed back at the aviary. "And cover part of the ceiling if you can. They're all overheated."

The stallion began to argue that his birds were meant to be displayed and admired, but she ignored him. Turning, she picked up her bag and re-entered the enclosure. Opening it, she produced a large jug of clean, cool water, a bunch of bananas, and a mango. Working quickly, she mashed the fruit and mixed it with the liquid, producing a cool puree that she poured into an empty bowl.  Approaching the ailing birds, she gently fed each one a couple tablespoons of the mixture. It wasn't their fault their master was stupid...

While she worked, she glanced down at the coating of newsprint layering the bottom of the enclosure. One particular article caught her eye. She leaned forward to read it, wrinkling her brow. Bringing her nose closer to read through the detritus of stray feathers and droppings, she frowned deeply as she read, losing her concentration and dousing the last bird in mush. He squawked in protest and startled her out of her reverie, causing her to bang her head on the wooden perch and drop the bowl. It clattered to the ground, spilling down her meticulously styled tail on the way, but she seemed not to notice as she finished reading.

With a sigh she went to draw up water to bathe him in, but her mind fixed firmly on the article as she finished caring for the birds, gave the owner an icy glare, and departed for a desperately needed shower. Uncle was surely still meeting delegates, but she needed to talk to him immediately, and it wasn't about Senator Freefly's birds.

Brawny's lunch break was over sooner than Majem's, and the Earth Pony was a little disappointed to hear that Majem would not be collecting samples in the afternoon, but that's what Majem wanted. To test the water, not to collect it. Though he did enjoy swimming down to the bottoms to collect samples, too. But he wouldn't tell them because he might end up only collecting samples.
As appealing as that sounds, Majem enjoys working with other researchers a bit more than swimming all day. Mainly because he can still swim in his free time, but not talk to professors. He couldn't possibly be using his magic all day long, either.

With a few minutes to spare alone, before returning to work, Majem decided to read the newspaper. There was always somepony in the lab who had one, so all he had to do was look around a bit, even if it was in the garbage can. With a newspaper floating in front of him, Majem returned to his seat.

" Hmm, the Equestria National?" He thought to himself as he began reading the paper. The news about the empire in the north interested Majem the most and he was already making preparations in his head to go there when he had time.

"Hey there, Majem!" A familiar voice called out for him. He looked around and saw his colleague from that morning walking up to him again. "Hi." Majem responded.
"We'll be working together today. Gotta test some new chemicals."
"Do you think they'll be any better than the last ones we had to test?"Majem said as he put down the newspaper and got up from his seat.
"Should be. My uncle's worked on some of these." He stared at the newspaper for a moment, then turned away to head towards the lab. "Equestria National, huh? Did you read about the Empire up north?"
"Of course! I mean, I couldn't not read it, it was basically the only interesting thing in there."
"Plans to go there, yet?" He asked and chuckled a little.
"You know me. Just gotta tell my parents."
"The adventurous one, as always. Oh, speaking of which, did you also read Strokes' advertisement at the back of the paper?"
"Green Strokes, the travelling author? No, I don't think I have." He said and turned his head back towards the newspaper which began levitating towards him. He quickly read the advertisement.
"Might just be a faux?"
"I doubt it, but you may be right."
"Worth checking it out?"
"If I have enough time. So let's get working on those chemicals."
"Right."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 11, 21:11:32
Ryo gets off the train from Ponyville to Canterlot stretching as he gets off . . .

The weather was bright, a little cool for a September day but undeniably plesant. As for the time . . . It seemed a little beyond noon. Ponies littered the streets with a lethargic temperment, several ponies seemed close to passing out right there and then. The smell of delicacies and burnt wood permeated every part of Canterlot.

A blue energetic stallion passed by an exhausted and irritable, sea-foam mare, "Hehe, That was grand, eh, Margury? I could actually go for another day! Two days of partying doesn't seem enough!"

Margury looked as if she'd rather strangle the energetic stallion at the moment. Her malevolence didn't make her any-more energized however, and she grumbled back to her job, making a few desserts in a kiosk.  "You need to get a job, Staples. You wouldn't be soo chippy if you only got 2 hours of sleep . . . all week-end."

* * *

Plot -Aristocrates Only-
 

"well at least my luck is with the weather mares I guess, Right"

Ryo begins to walk down the street, looking around all the way while looking slightly out of place as compared to the other canterlot ponys yet not caring, he smiles and heads towards where he knows the news kiosk to be

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 12, 15:00:22
"well at least my luck is with the weather mares I guess, Right"

Ryo begins to walk down the street . . .

Ryo soon finds his news kiosk; manned by a tired, black mare with a large pot of Joe sitting next to her. A deep mug declaring: 'Horray for Harmony' was constantly raised to her muzzle. When she realized Ryo was heading for her, she struggled to put the mug down quickly. Spilling some of the coffee in her dark coat.

"Horse flippin' Joe . . ." Hooves struggling against her coat, she spoke to Ryo "Hello there, friend. Do you need a newspaper? I'm sorry to say we are all sold out, everyone is a little slow today, sorry."

"Drat that a shame, It appears my luck had to run out somewhere oh well, I don't suppose you know when you're getting anymore in, I'd like to catch up at some point, Ive been out of town for a while you see"

The next morning, Juniper got up first, as usual.  After the usual morning chores and routine, she'd gotten breakfast and a lunch packed for her husband when he stumbled out of the bedroom, mane still in a mess.

"Mornin', Feather.  Sleep well?" asked the mare, suppressing a giggle.

Her husband just smiled, a little bleary-eyed.  "Of course.  Thanks for last night, by the way."

"Always a pleasure.  What's on your schedule today?"

"Lab research, like usual.  I asked them to give me a little more time to get there, so there's not TOO much of a rush today.  I should be able to make the morning train easily."

Juniper looked at the clock, and smiled.  "Have fun.  Want me to pick you up when you get home?"

"Sure.  Thanks, Juni.  I'll see if I can bring you something."

"No problem!  And thanks.  Good luck, and hope there's no delay with the trains."

After sharing a kiss, the couple separated, and the unicorn was on the usual cab to the station.

The trip to Canterlot was uneventful, though Feather happened to glance at the newspaper while boarding the train.  Besides a few stories about the continuation of the celebrations, there wasn't much interesting, and he wasn't about to pick up another trash-filled tabloid again.  Before he let his attention wander, however, he noticed an article peeking over the side of the holder.  Levitating the paper to see, he was somewhat disturbed to see the title: "Weiston A&W Stock Plummets Amid Celebrations."  Intrigued, the pony took out some bits to pay for the paper and sat down at his regular bench, opening the paper before him.

Apparently, since the return of the Crystal Empire, armor and weapons companies had been closing left and right.  Weiston, one of the largest firms, was only the most recent in a chain of collapsing companies, and analysts predicted it would be bought up within the week by one of its main competitors.

Feather frowned.  As much as he appreciated the peaceful sentiment that was filling Equestria recently, he knew that nations outside the borders were no different than they were before.  It was foolhardy to think that this one event would bring instant peace to the whole world or resolve all disputes at once.  What's more, much of the funding for the stallion's research came from Weiston and other weapons and armor companies interested in the potential military applications of magitronics and spell matrices.  Though he hated war as much as the next pony, the professor depended on such grants for the majority of his income.  Toys and consumer goods were all fine and dandy, but none of the civilian corporations offered anything approaching what Weiston handed its researchers.

Feather spent the rest of the trip mulling over the implications of what he read.  In good time the unicorn reached his destination, where the morning rush was still in full swing.  Fortunately, the cabbies weren't all too busy, and he got to talk with the one who had ferried him the other day, in particular about economics.  Unsurprisingly, the cabby was elated at the improving economy overall, and wasn't too worried about the crash of the weapons manufacturers.  Thanking the cabby for the conversation, the professor got off at his stop, payed his bill and tip, and entered the research building he was assigned to today.

One of his interns trotted up to him as soon as he opened the door.  "Good morning, Dr. Scroll.  Did you hear the news about the research grant?"

"Good morning.  And no, but I can guess based on what I read this morning in the National."

"What are your orders, sir?  Should we scrap the projects?"

Feather sat down heavily on a bench, pressing a hoof to his forehead.  "I don't know myself, honestly.  Let me think this over for a bit.  In the meantime, continue working on the research.  Even if the funding's gone, we still have the bits left over from the previous project, yes?  Good.  Let's see if we can't get something useful from what progress we've made so far."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 12, 15:41:07
"Drat that a shame, It appears my luck had to run out somewhere oh well, I don't suppose you know when you're getting anymore in. . ."

"Unfortunetly friend . . . do you want some Joe? " The mare offered a mug to Ryo, " . . . I don't know when we'll be getting our next shipment. I don't expect we'll be getting any papers till the evening addition. A few more hours, at least. As for catching up? Anything you need specifically? I might be able to oblige you, just sitting here on the corner is rather dull but at least I'm getting payed for it."

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 15:44:36
The next morning, Juniper got up first, as usual.  After the usual morning chores and routine, she'd gotten breakfast and a lunch packed for her husband when he stumbled out of the bedroom, mane still in a mess. . .

Almost immedietly, Feather's assistant wandered back in. "Uh, professor, someone is here to see you . . . Says he's from Weiston." The intern smiled. "Maybe well get some answers and at least we'll know how we stand with the funding . . .

A rather suave, yellow pegasus stallion burst through the door, looking around like he belonged there, as much as any professor. His white suit was immaculate, he removed his cap in semblance of respect for his surroundings.

"Professor Feather Scroll, are you here?" The stallion gave a rather hard look at Feather. "YOU are professor feather, aren't you sir?"

After his . . . sudden entrance and unsettling familiarity. He proceeded to pace around the room.

"You see . . . I'm here to discuss a conract Weiston Armor and Weapon's has with Professor Feather. It's rather urgent so I'd be obliged if you sent me his way . . . "

"Thanks for the offer but I'm afraid I'll pass, not really a coffee Drinker, though there nothing specific i need to know, just curious if anything interesting happened in this town while I was gone, heh though can't expect much not in this controlled town am I right"   

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 12, 17:16:26
"Thanks for the offer but I'm afraid I'll pass, not really a coffee Drinker, though there nothing specific i need to know, just curious if anything interesting happened in this town while I was gone, heh though can't expect much not in this controlled town am I right" 

"Well, I'd like to think there is always something interesting going on in Canterlot. Otherwise I could lose my job, any-minute. But let's see . . . How long were you gone? How much information do you need? We just had one hoof-ringing party, yesterday and the day before. 

The Mare looked at Ryo, quizically. "We've just gotten report of a new kingdom, that's something interesting. It's why we had that party . . . I was telling you about . . ." The mare stopped slowly, before a great yawn burst out of her.

"Excuse me, so, anything interest you, there?

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 12, 16:28:12

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 15:44:36
The next morning, Juniper got up first, as usual.  After the usual morning chores and routine, she'd gotten breakfast and a lunch packed for her husband when he stumbled out of the bedroom, mane still in a mess. . .

Almost immedietly, Feather's assistant wandered back in. "Uh, professor, someone is here to see you . . . Says he's from Weiston." The intern smiled. "Maybe well get some answers and at least we'll know how we stand with the funding . . .

A rather suave, yellow pegasus stallion burst through the door, looking around like he belonged there, as much as any professor. His white suit was immaculate, he removed his cap in semblance of respect for his surroundings.

"Professor Feather Scroll, are you here?" The stallion gave a rather hard look at Feather. "YOU are professor feather, aren't you sir?"

After his . . . sudden entrance and unsettling familiarity. He proceeded to pace around the room.

"You see . . . I'm here to discuss a conract Weiston Armor and Weapon's has with Professor Feather. It's rather urgent so I'd be obliged if you sent me his way . . . "

"I am Dr. Scroll," replied the researcher calmly.  "You say you are here to discuss the contracts?  Might I see identification?  I wouldn't want to be sharing confidential information unless I was certain of the identity of the one I was sharing with."

Weiston A&W contractors were always the same, not that Feather blamed the bureaucrats.  After all, in this world he who had the gold made the rules, and few ponies had more gold to their name than the corporate executives of Equestria's formerly most powerful weapons manufacturer, regardless of the current financial situation of the company.  One got used to the stallions' abrasive nature as a matter of practicality, and if they did not at least they pretended to.  Bits were sparse nowadays whatever the newspapers said about an economic upturn, and researchers took what opportunities they had to earn it.

"well yea I guess I underestimated the news of the new kingdom, I guess that news far surpasses that of the local stuff though its good to see that so many rejoiced here also"


((My posts feel so small as compaired to most  lol))

Majem and his colleague were ready to get working on the chemicals, but a moment of inattention from both sides caused a very unwanted accident in which the test tubes containing several chemicals shattered on the ground. Several unhealthy looking gases began to mix with the air.
"Good job there, featherbrain!" The pony yelled at Majem as both of them ran out the lab.
"What? This was your fault! Pay attention where you wave that tail of yours." Majem yelled back at him.
Before they went through the door, Majem hit the emergency button and the room was closed for safety reasons.

"Hey, I've been working here for a long time, I know what I'm doing. You probably pushed it off. You can't even feel a thing with that water on your rump!"
Majem's mane began to wave violently, as if it was about to wash the other pony away. The two ponies stared at each other and the intense anger between them could be felt.

Meanwhile, some of the other workers arrived at the incident and seperated the two ponies to make sure nothing violent would happen. Both of them explained what happened, but Majem, being the younger one, was blamed. Angered by this, he threw off his lab coat and left the building.

Majem was walking through Canterlot, still angry by what happened, but the blue unicorn couldn't stay angry for very long and he quickly cooled down, though he wouldn't head back to work that day.
"Why not have a look around Canterlot, then? Been a while since I've been here in my free time."

Morning Glory trotted anxiously down the street outside the tall buildings of the Canterlot governmental district. Her damp mane flopped against her neck as she ran, her feet leaving a trail wet hoofprints behind her. Reaching a newsstand, she yanked her money purse out of her saddlebags, dumped out pair of silver coins and snatched up a copy of the Equestrian National without a word. She turned and cantered down the sidewalk before the coins stopped rattling on the counter.

Marching through the rotating glass doors of the Capitol Building, she held her nose high in the air, trying to look dignified as she dripped on the marble tile. Reaching the elevator, she jabbed the button and rose to the sixth floor. She charged down the hallways, a damp trail painting the fine red carpet behind her as her wet tail dragged along the floor. Finally reaching her uncle's suite, she entered and nearly barged into his conference room. The rumble of voices stopped her and she came to an abrupt halt. Rolling her eyes dramatically, she tapped her hoof, waiting with the newspaper wedged into the collar of her blue taffeta dress.

At last the door opened.

"...visit some time next year! The 18-hole course there is the finest in all-" Lord Sterling Silver spotted his disheveled, dampened niece standing in the doorway. He worked his mouth silently for a minute before regaining his composure. "May I introduce my niece and secretary, Lady Morning Glory of the Silver House."

Morning Glory gave a perfunctory curtsey to the stuffy looking griffon standing beside him and put on a false smile. "A pleasure to meet you, Ambasador." She had noticed the long red ribbon crossing his chest with a sun insignia.

The griffon looked her up and down disapprovingly, then nodded. "Yes, a pleasure. Now I must be going. Good day, Lord Silver. Lady Glory." He then scampered out the door.

"What in the name of the Princess happened to you?" Her uncle turned to her, looking very displeased.

"Freefly's birds happened. And you owe me something expensive. Jewelry maybe...but that can wait." She drew the folded paper out of her dress and levitated it over, folding it to the important page. "Look there, the article about Mr. Green Strokes."

Her uncle looked disapproving, but lifted the paper in his own magic and levitated his glasses on to his nose. His eyes swept back and forth quickly. He glanced at his niece, then back to the paper, then at Morning Glory again. "Yes? Mr. Strokes is on another adventure. What is the meaning of this? It's not like you to interrupt me when I'm meeting with a delegate. "

She snatched the paper back. "Didn't you read it? He's missing and his home was attacked, burned down!" She brandished the parchment at him.

"I didn't read that anywhere. Are you feeling all right my dear?"

She frowned and flipped the paper over to read again. No word of a missing group of ponies, just a plain old fire and a busy pony out on his adventures again.

Morning Glory turned silently and walked into her own small office, turning the paper and noting that this was the evening edition. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion as she magicked the door shut.

"Glory dear, are you-" Sterling gave up and returned to his office, muttering about youngsters these days.

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 17:38:13
"I am Dr. Scroll," replied the researcher calmly.  "You say you are here to discuss the contracts? . . .

  The yellow pegasus scoffed. "Such trivialities, even with researchers." The pegasus did not move to produce his papers.

The pegasus lowered his voice and continued. "Professor, I've actually been sent to see if we can't re-draw our contract. You see we would like to expedite your research, the prototypes we have viewed have been of excellent quality and we believe the side-affects are acceptable. We would like a completed version by next week. I have been sent to discuss an acceptable salary increase.

  Finally, The stallion passed Feather his papers: 'Cormrick Salesburg, Chief Research Consulting Director.' These papers looked . . . different from the papers Feather was used to seeing, but it had a legitamate seal of 'authenticity' and even the royal signet.

  "I hope we can come to a compromise, Professor. It could be very lucrative for you . . . The stallion glanced around the room. " . . . and your laboratory.

* * *

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 12, 17:56:06
"well yea I guess I underestimated the news of the new kingdom. . .

"Heh, well that's the major low-down. I mean I bet I could find more information for you if you were interested in anything. But that's all I've got on general news.  "  The mare giggled nervously.

"Well, not to be rude or anything, but I haven't much else to say, well 'professionally'." She chuckled, again. "Seeing how it's about lunch time, how about I take my break. If you want to have lunch that is. OH! The name's Velvet Miles. . . . " She stuck out a hoof. "What's yours?"


* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 12, 18:14:36
Majem and his colleague were ready to get working on the chemicals, but a moment of inattention from both sides caused a very unwanted accident . . .

An unfamiliar blue, Earth-pony stallion was waving at Chirp. "Hello, Hello there!? Excuse me but are you as free as you look? I can always spot a pony with free time." His expression was nothing but extreme joy. "You can call me Staples Bright. Staples Bright, the friend of latent or un-employed ponies. Hey that isn't too bad! Maybe I should take up poetry!

" HEY! I'm looking for somepony to do something with, are you free? I heard of a fire, and a burned down apartment. Can you believe it? A fire in this age. Heh, well how bout it, promises to be interesting!"  The pony grinned mischeviously and beckoned with his hoof. "Come on! Let's go!"

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 12, 23:03:31

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 17:38:13
"I am Dr. Scroll," replied the researcher calmly.  "You say you are here to discuss the contracts? . . .

  The yellow pegasus scoffed. "Such trivialities, even with researchers." The pegasus did not move to produce his papers.

The pegasus lowered his voice and continued. "Professor, I've actually been sent to see if we can't re-draw our contract. You see we would like to expedite your research, the prototypes we have viewed have been of excellent quality and we believe the side-affects are acceptable. We would like a completed version by next week. I have been sent to discuss an acceptable salary increase.

  Finally, The stallion passed Feather his papers: 'Cormrick Salesburg, Chief Research Consulting Director.' These papers looked . . . different from the papers Feather was used to seeing, but it had a legitamate seal of 'authenticity' and even the royal signet.

  "I hope we can come to a compromise, Professor. It could be very lucrative for you . . . The stallion glanced around the room. " . . . and your laboratory.

* * *

The researcher examined the papers and nodded genially.  "Of course, Mr. Salesburg, and the terms do sound quite agreeable.  Forgive me, however, if I am unable to immediately accept them; past agreements and policies with your company of course dictate that changes in terms and agreements must be first reviewed by the corporation's legal board and have multiple witnesses' signatures.  In order to change the original agreement the document must be itself be edited and the relevant sections voided, as I'm sure you know.  As I've said, however, as soon as I have papers to sign and a few witnesses and attorneys from the company to get all the paperwork done, I'd be happy to consent to this change, Mr. Salesburg."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 12, 23:03:31
An unfamiliar blue, Earth-pony stallion was waving at Chirp. "Hello, Hello there!? Excuse me but are you as free as you look? I can always spot a pony with free time." His expression was nothing but extreme joy. "You can call me Staples Bright. Staples Bright, the friend of latent or un-employed ponies. Hey that isn't too bad! Maybe I should take up poetry!

" HEY! I'm looking for somepony to do something with, are you free? I heard of a fire, and a burned down apartment. Can you believe it? A fire in this age. Heh, well how bout it, promises to be interesting!"  The pony grinned mischeviously and beckoned with his hoof. "Come on! Let's go!"

"The entire apartment burned down? That's a bit unusual. You'd think the Fire-Brigade would be there, no?" Majem said, more to himself than to Staples and he followed the Blue Earth-pony.

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 12, 22:27:02
Morning Glory trotted anxiously down the street outside the tall buildings of the Canterlot governmental district. . .

  Glory had drawn alot of attention to herself, trotting through town like that. A few ponies were eagerly waiting for her to come OUT of the building but after a few minutes their attention waned. They departed with giggles and theories on what happened.

  Well, most of them departed. A worn and haggered pony looked on the building with irritation. He was dressed well enough - or his dress would of been fine if it had been taken care of, at all - A white 'fur' coat swam around the pony, the breeze carrying it picturesquely.

  This dark figure stood out on such a bright crowded street, ponies parted around him, sending questioning glances but avoiding contact or conversation. He didn't seem to care; his gaze never left the building.

* * *

  A couple unicorn entered Lord Silver's office. Flashing badges that contained the royal crest.

  "Excuse our intrusion but we MUST speak to Lord Silver, we are from the Fedural Bureau of Invesitgations. The princess are interested in several policies, ir rather Lord Silver's opinions on them. It may sound trivial but I assure you, it's rather urgent." The unicorn sneered.

  His partner shrugged. "I hope his lordship can find time in his busy schedule for a couple of their excellencies' servants."

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 23:40:58
The researcher examined the papers and nodded genially.  "Of course, Mr. Salesburg, and the terms do sound quite agreeable. . .

 
  "Excellent! Shall we re-locate then? Our lawyers could be summoned in an instant. The yellow pegasus looked iritated. " I suppose you'll be wanting YOUR lawyer at the proceedings, as well. Is there anyway we could make that party availabe . . . now? As for a partial witness we'll pick somepony up off the street on the way there.

The pegasus' feathers ruffled, be it irritation or boundless energy. He clearly wasn't enjoying these 'details'.

  "Well Professor, I don't think there is much else to discuss. When you find yourself free and your lawyer is indisposed find yourself to this adress. " The pegasus handed Feather a firm card: 'Weiston Armor and Weapons; 212 Starswirl Boulevard'

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 13, 01:18:12
"The entire apartment burned down? . . .

  "Ah, haha ho! A fellow adventurer, I see! Well let's get to it, you know . . . " The pony made a great effort to look sly. ". . . There are some theories going around that Fancy Pants is hireing and training arsenists. Perhaps this is the work of that notorious gang? We should snoop around and see what we can see! Maybe we'll find something interesting . . ."

  The pony danced away; cheering about the idea of adventure and soon the two were off. Along the winding Canterlot by-ways and alleys, the pony led the way but stopped to talk with every pedestrian and by-stander along the way.   Eventually they found themsevles at the site of the fire. Nothing but a pile of rubble. NOTHING.

  The blue-stallion looked at the scene, dissapointedly . "Well, this doesn't look interesting, at all, actually."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 02:28:42
  "Ah, haha ho! A fellow adventurer, I see! Well let's get to it, you know . . . " The pony made a great effort to look sly. ". . . There are some theories going around that Fancy Pants is hireing and training arsenists. Perhaps this is the work of that notorious gang? We should snoop around and see what we can see! Maybe we'll find something interesting . . ."

  The pony danced away; cheering about the idea of adventure and soon the two were off. Along the winding Canterlot by-ways and alleys, the pony led the way but stopped to talk with every pedestrian and by-stander along the way.   Eventually they found themsevles at the site of the fire. Nothing but a pile of rubble. NOTHING.

  The blue-stallion looked at the scene, dissapointment . "Well, this doesn't look interesting, at all, actually."

Majem looked at the scene as well, but he was shocked. "Was there anypony still in the apartment?" He said as he looked around the rubble. Just looking at it made him feel uncomfortable, or maybe it was something else.

"Wait, isn't this where Green Strokes told us to come in that advertisement?" He thought to himself and began looking around at everything, not just the rubble.

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 13, 02:47:41
Majem looked at the scene as well, but he was shocked. . .

  The new charcoal and ash still swirled about the place, fire and ash, the entire street smelled like it and something foul, like sewage.

The apartment was a hole of a building, the backwall still stood, half it's original length. Everything else had tumbled in on itself, unless it was burned away. Funiture looked like old-logs, rooms were now one-room, a room that opened to the sky.

  But something else was there . . . a shadow moved forward from behind the building, a purple unicorn mare. A hostility eminated from her as she moved towards the two ponies. Eyes scanning them for . . . something.

When she was only a few yards away she called: "What are you two up to? Just coming to see a fire? I assure you it's nothing to gawk at, that fire destroyed a few masterpieces."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 03:24:57
  The new charcoal and ash still swirled about the place, fire and ash, the entire street smelled like it and something foul, like sewage.

The apartment was a hole of a building, the backwall still stood, half it's original length. Everything else had tumbled in on itself, unless it was burned away. Funiture looked like old-logs, rooms were now one-room, a room that opened to the sky.

  But something else was there . . . a shadow moved forward from behind the building, a purple unicorn mare. A hostility eminated from her as she moved towards the two ponies. Eyes scanning them for . . . something.

When she was only a few yards away she called: "What are you two up to? Just coming to see a fire? I assure you it's nothing to gawk at, that fire destroyed a few masterpieces."

"What do you mean what are we up to?" Majem responded. "Yes, we're just looking at the fire. Nothing wrong with that."
He paused for a moment. The purple mare's sudden appearance and reaction were very strange, suspicious even. "So, what are YOU up to? Scaring ponies away from an accident they'd like to know about?"

Morning Glory jumped violently as the two agents barged into the office and swept some stray paperwork over the newspaper, then threw her door open to greet the two stallions that now stood in the antechamber that lead to both her and her uncle's private rooms to the left and right, respectively. She had not expected any more visitors, and she knew uncle's schedule was clear for the rest of the day. Regaining her composure, she drew herself up and stepped forward, slapping on her welcome face . "Good day sirs." She moved to stand before them and curtsey, not so much out of etiquette, but to sneak a good look at the royal crests stamped on to their uniforms.

"I you would please wait a moment. I shall see if Lord Sterling is prepared to receive guests. Please have a seat." she gestured to the comfortable lounge furniture that lined the room. She moved past them to reach her uncle's door. Knocking three times, she entered, and closed the door behind her.

"Uncle, there's two stallions from the Bureau here to see you. They say it's very urgent Were you expecting them? You haven't done anything, have you?"

Sterling Silver leaned forward in his chair. "The Bureau, eh? I've no idea what they could want. Well, send them in. And a tea-service, if you would. I have a feeling I may need to speak with them for some time. You know how these Crown Agents can get..."

"Yes, Uncle. But, I fear we're out of teabags. I suppose I could head down the street..."

"Very well. Quickly as you can dear, hop to!"

Morning Glory re-entered the waiting area, smile affixed and looked to the two agents. "Lord Sterling Silver will see you now. Right this way, please." She pushed the door open and gestured for them to enter before heading to her own office.

Collecting her purse, she took a glance in the ornate mirror hanging on the wall beside the door to her office. She grimaced and pushed some drying hair behind her ear. Then she headed out, being sure to shut the outer loudly to alert her uncle that she had left.

Soon she emerged into the setting sunlight of the street and walked briskly in the direction of a small teashop nearby.

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 13, 03:55:42
"What do you mean what are we up to? . . .

The unicorn's lips curled, her naturally hostile looks became downright frightening.

  "That is exactly what I'm doing, and you should be thanking me for it. Stick around here much longer and you might find yourself in trouble. This area has been designated as 'sensitive' by their royal majesties. " The venom in her voice was extremly potent, at no point was her sardonic tone dropped.

  "You two better get going, but if you want to ignore sensible advice . . . by all means stick around. The royal guard will probably be picking you up for questioning within the hour. Nothing wrong with looking at a burned down apartment? You can tell that to the guards. "

  The mare was already turning back, returning to wherever it was she had come from.


* * *

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 13, 03:58:26
Morning Glory jumped violently as the two agents barged into the office and swept some stray paperwork over the newspaper . . .

  "Hello, your lordship. My name is Inspector Goldfield and my partner here is Sir Thunder." The silver coated stallion said calmly.

  His partner, a copper cheastnut, stared the Stallion down. "Are you familiar with a radical author that goes by the name of Green Strokes? You see, Lord Silver, we've been instructed to visit each and every lord and find out that pony's opinion on the author." Both pony's were watching the Stallion's expression, Inspector Goldfield continued. "You see, for the third time in Equestrian history, a pony is being declared a public enemy for their radical beliefs. The princess believe his slander dangerous to the stability of the Empire. I hope you haven't had past interactions with this character.

The copper unicorn added in: "It would look very unfavorable . . . "

  The two inspectors were getting rather comfortable, Inspector Goldfield had his hind hooves up on Sterling's table. "Of course we'll find out if you HAVE had past relations with this author, so it's probably best you tell us now. We'll need to bring you to Central of course, but better sooner than later.

  The copper unicorn leaned in. "You DON'T have any Green sympathies . . . do you?"


* * *

  A pony stood across the street, watching Morning exit the building. The pony had a deep white 'fur' coat and a midnight black coating. His crimson eyes followed her as she went down the street. With a final glance at the building, the pony finally roused himself, his hooves moved jerkily at first but soon he was in stride. A fair distance behind Morning but not bothering to be secrative or ellusive.

  As Morning entered the Tea-shop, so did he. In the close confines of the building he blinked, looked around and departed almost immedietly. He paused for a moment outside the shop as he oriented himself . . .

Sterling Silver was the jovial type. But his family had been part of the Equestrian aristocracy as long as anypony could remember. They were descendants of the great Princess Platinum, and could trace their lineage even further back in pony history. It was not often that Sterling looked grim, but as the agents confronted him, the stallion's chest seem to swell as he glared at them over the top of his glasses. When he spoke, it was clearly and slowly, but the malice dripped off his words.

"The implication that I have anything but the safety and prosperity of the Equestrian ponies as my ultimate goal is deeply troubling. My family has served the people since before the Crown was even conceived. Surely you know what we have lost at the hands of "radicals" before." He gestured to a painting over the fireplace behind them. A silver stallion with a navy mane stood proud, finely dressed and looking perfectly regal.

"We would never conspire with enemies of the Princesses. I know this Green Strokes. I've seen him in the paper from time to time. But I will tell you now we have no interest in seeing out any of his radical goals. Now leave at once. And think of the ill-will the Princesses attract by harassing their most trusted advisers in some mad ponyhunt, sending you irreverent scabs out to muss-up their closest allies. I shall be sending Her Majesty a letter immediately, detailing my displeasure. Dismissed, Gentlecolts. Good day." He magicked the door open.



******

Morning Glory had selected a box of her favorite darjeeling and her uncle's preferred mint and stepped up to the counter to pay. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw an odd figure enter, and then leave. Perplexed, but not terribly interested, she levitated the bits out her purse and placed the tea in her bag. Turning, she marched out the door and strait into the pony she had seen inside, banging into them in her rush and dropping her purse. "Pardon." She said simply, and went to pick up her fallen bag.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 02:28:42

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 12, 23:40:58
The researcher examined the papers and nodded genially.  "Of course, Mr. Salesburg, and the terms do sound quite agreeable. . .

 
  "Excellent! Shall we re-locate then? Our lawyers could be summoned in an instant. The yellow pegasus looked iritated. " I suppose you'll be wanting YOUR lawyer at the proceedings, as well. Is there anyway we could make that party availabe . . . now? As for a partial witness we'll pick somepony up off the street on the way there.

The pegasus' feathers ruffled, be it irritation or boundless energy. He clearly wasn't enjoying these 'details'.

  "Well Professor, I don't think there is much else to discuss. When you find yourself free and your lawyer is indisposed find yourself to this adress. " The pegasus handed Feather a firm card: 'Weiston Armor and Weapons; 212 Starswirl Boulevard'

The researcher smiled and nodded until the pony was out the door, in his stagecoach and well on his way before bursting into laughter.  His interns looked on in confusion before joining in.

"Oh, those absolute fools.  But what can you do, he who has the gold makes the rules after all.  Just have to bear with them.  You know where Mr. Inkwell is, Beaker?  Could you go get him for me?  Wouldn't want to keep those bureaucrats waiting too long, no matter how fun it would be to see their faces."

"Yes sir!"

Feather chuckled as the colt went galloping away down the hall.  "Weiston, Weiston, what HAVE you done.  Ah well.  You four, how would you like to be witnesses today?"

"Us, sir?"

"Of course.  Nopony I trust more than my own interns, after all."

"W-we'd be honored, sir!  Should we wear something special?"

The professor laughed.  "No need, no need!  Just as you are is fine.  I doubt those executives care much how procedures go, so long as it could be argued one way or another by their army of lawyers that it WAS according to procedure."

That finished, the researcher sat back, waiting for his old friend and attorney Copper Inkwell to come by.

((you can RP him if you want, or I could.  Either way.))

*****

Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, Master of the Pants Estate, Keeper of the Triple Crown, Knighted Guard of the Royal Sisters, was not having a good day.  First the reporters, then the taboids, then Their Majesties' Agents (quickly dismissed and put in their place with a few pointed comments about how absolutely integral, influential and powerful he was in Equestria), and finally this- news of Strokes' disappearance and the destruction of his house.

A white unicorn with half-lidded eyes appeared as if from nowhere by the aristocrat's side.

"Milord, you summoned me?"

"Good day, Madame.  I hope I do not disturb you.  I have... a request."

((your choice how this goes!))

Quote"Heh, well that's the major low-down. I mean I bet I could find more information for you if you were interested in anything. But that's all I've got on general news. " The mare giggled nervously.

"Well, not to be rude or anything, but I haven't much else to say, well 'professionally'." She chuckled, again. "Seeing how it's about lunch time, how about I take my break. If you want to have lunch that is. OH! The name's Velvet Miles. . . . " She stuck out a hoof. "What's yours?"

"The names Ryo Disk, a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Miles though I may need to take a rain check on the lunch I must finish my work I'm afraid, with all this new kingdom business they have me working overtime on magic research

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 04:53:08
  The mare was already turning back, returning to wherever it was she had come from.

"What do the guards have to do with this, still? Haven't they already done their job? Wait, it only recently burned down?" Majem looked around confused. The whole scene didn't make any sense.
Mysterious empire, mysterious advertisement from a mysterious author, mysterious stranger telling him to come check out a mysterious burned down apartment which was the mysterious apartment the mysterious author wanted ponies to come to.

"Did Strokes want to assassinate a bunch of ponies? No, he's an eccentric author, but not a mad one. Was he about to commit suicide and the ad was a plea for help? Can't be. I bet he's been through worse things than any other pony. Maybe he was the target of the assassination?"
Too many thoughts crossed the unicorn's mind, leaving him feeling uneasy and a bit sick.

"Come on, we should go."
((Poor Majem, hoping for an adventure.))

Silver Flask was having a great day; the weather was perfect for gliding down to Canterlot. As he flew over the treetops, the majestic city came into view. He almost felt a little embarrassed to just trot into Canterlot with all those aristo-whats-its roaming around.
As he crossed over the train tracks leading to the city, he double checked his shopping list. As his eyes scanned over the items, many of them restocks of vials, seeds, and other miscellaneous gardening equipment, however, as he was distracted, he hardly noticed an updraft catching him up just before he flew right into the town's walls.
Shaking his head at his lack of attention, especially when flying, he gracefully glided down into the streets, landing just inside the gates. Waving to two guards as he walked in, he whistled a tune to himself as he skip-trotted down the familiar roads.
As he walked towards the shopping area of town, he looking with surprise at a pile of rubble which used to obviously be a building of some sort. Noting the different ponies scattered around it, he determined to keep his distance; after all, it was none of his business.
Nevertheless, on his way down to the market, he picked up a newspaper from a tired looking pony, handing her a tip in the process to brighten her day, and sat down to read the paper in a cafe, hoping for some information on the incident.

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 13, 05:39:42
Sterling Silver was the jovial type. But his family had been part of the Equestrian aristocracy as long as anypony could remember. . . .

"That's good to hear, Lord Silver. Very good." Inspector Goldfield adjusted his suit.

  Inspector Thunder stood and left, without any ceremony or show of respect. "Don't forget the meeting . . ."

  Inspector Goldfield nodded to Silver, like these four words were a declaration of great wisdom. "The Princess hopes you've received your memo. There is to be a council meeting next Saturdawn, 8:30 CD (Celestia Dominance). Don't be late, their majesties expect full attendance.  This meeting is absolutely mandatory, for the sake of the empire." Goldfield stood, making a sarcastic bow as he backed out the door.

  "Stay well your lordship. It would be a grave inconvenience if you missed this meeting."


* * *

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 13, 05:39:42
Morning Glory had selected a box of her favorite darjeeling and her uncle's preferred mint and stepped up to the counter to pay. . .

  The pony stumbled forward, crashing headlong into several pedestrians. For a brief moment the street was flaying hooves and shouts of surprise. Ponies were shocked and surprised but no-pony had been injured.

  "Forgive me." The pony bowed, helping a few of the others back to their feet.

  Spinning around, he searched for what had propelled him into the hub of pony traffic. His eyes focused on Glory, slight surprise broke across his unemotional face, for but a moment. "You hit me, send fly, Why this?"  He turned his head suddenly, looking into the crowd his face was compressed and horrible for a moment,  but his eyes, his eyes glistened with a horrifying revelation.

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 13, 10:49:05
Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, Master of the Pants Estate, Keeper of the Triple Crown, Knighted Guard of the Royal Sisters, was not having a good day. . .

The venerable Assassin's Guild had hooves in almost every pie, their resource network spanned the Equestrian empire and even had a few roots that extended out of it. Seeing as this matter concerned them as well, any possibility of a separate assassination organization was of interest to 'The guild', they had already performed a thorough investigation on this incident.

  Some . . . disturbing facts had been discovered. Several witness swore they heard a herd of ponies tramping about inside the apartment. No-one had seen any ponies exiting or leaving that Saturdawn, though. Furthermore, the fire had been pony-created, most likely intentionally. Beyond the strange accounts of the fast-burning fire, that hadn't even touch the other buildings, 'The Guild' had set several of their Magic-specialists to the scene. The fire  was created by a highly complicated fire-spell.

  All this Fleur told Fancy, and this: Whoever or whatever organized this little strike, for it was an organized strike, was unknown to the guild. They hadn't seen a signature like this before; the precision and non-existent evidence was startling, no crime was this clean. But it was a crime, 'The Guild' was sure.

  As for Fancy's friend, they had spotted his apprentice lingering around the ruins and Right Hoof was spotted around the edge of Canterlot. Unfortunately, 'The Guild's agents had no reason to follow him and where the unicorn had wandered to was a mystery.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 13, 16:52:16
"The names Ryo Disk, a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Miles . . ."

"Oh, don't be like that! You can take time for some lunch. An hour or so, that's not a lot of time, come on it'll be fun!" The midnight mare flipped the sign on the newsstand to 'away for lunch'. Still looking rather tired, she made her way to Ryo, sliding a hoof in the crink of his leg and leading him along.

"Come on, we both need some lunch, might as well be sociable and dine together!" Pulling Ryo along the tree-shaded alley to a neat little cafe, facing away from the main street.  Immediately the mare craned her neck, watching one of the customers sitting outside.

"Look here, Ryo! That pegasus has the evening edition, already. I guess the delivery boys are just being lazy today. . . "

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 13, 18:18:29
"What do the guards have to do with this, still? Haven't they already done their job? . . .

"No . . . wait. The purple mare said quietly, barely audible over the wind.

"Wait, I should ask . . . ask if you were here for any specific reason. Were you sent by someone or did someone summon you? The mare turned to face Chirp, she looked pained but it looked a little too forced . . . almost like she was constipated.

"Listen, wait a moment. You shouldn't, it's dangerous for you . . . but do it for me. I need someone to talk to, I've been here for several days and I can't leave, I'm being wat . . ." She stopped, sighing in agitation. "Please just tell me WHY you are here."

The purple mare muttered: "Oh, every-one gape and stare, let's all shake a stick at the crazy unicorn!"

((wait so Galvin can I roleplay here yet? Or must I wait for you to accept Falliver too?))

Sterling snorted derisively and opened the door a little wider. "I will be in attendance, gentlecolts. And wipe those smug smirks off your faces. It's unbecoming of any servant of the crown to behave with such insolence. You speak that way to Duke Noble and you'll be out on the street with a set of hoofprints in your in your rumps. Just a fair warning, gents. Now if you could see yourselves out?" He then turned and seated himself again, lifting parchment, quill and ink to begin a letter.


* * * * * *

Morning Glory leered at him as she collected her purse by magic and re-affixed it over her shoulder. Her eyes swept over his bizarre appearance. It was not uncommon to see oddly-dressed fellows on the street of Canterlot, since it attracted ponies from all over Equestria. But there was something off about this colt. She recoiled at his broken speech, then drew herself up, nose in the air.

"You were standing right in front of the door, sir." She put a cruel, ironic emphasis on the title. Of course I bumped into you. Now, I'm in a hurry, so if you'll excuse me..." She gave him one last disapproving look and turned in a swish of fine fabric, trotting off down the street.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 22:13:04
"No . . . wait. The purple mare said quietly, barely audible over the wind.

"Wait, I should ask . . . ask if you were here for any specific reason. Were you sent by someone or did someone summon you? The mare turned to face Majem, she looked pained but it looked a little too forced . . . almost like she was constipated.

"Listen, wait a moment. You shouldn't, it's dangerous for you . . . but do it for me. I need someone to talk to, I've been here for several days and I can't leave, I'm being wat . . ." She stopped, sighing in agitation. "Please just tell me WHY you are here."

The purple mare muttered: "Oh, every-one gape and stare, let's all shake a stick at the crazy unicorn!"

"She definitely knows something.. No, don't get yourself mixed up in this. Just turn around and walk away. Turn around." He debated with himself a little as he was listening to the purple mare.

"We can talk if you want. But, what about those guards you mentioned earlier? I don't want to become a suspect." He responded.

"Ponyfeathers. I did it again."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 13, 22:13:04

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 13, 10:49:05
Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, Master of the Pants Estate, Keeper of the Triple Crown, Knighted Guard of the Royal Sisters, was not having a good day. . .

The venerable Assassin's Guild had hooves in almost every pie, their resource network spanned the Equestrian empire and even had a few roots that extended out of it. Seeing as this matter concerned them as well, any possibility of a separate assassination organization was of interest to 'The guild', they had already performed a thorough investigation on this incident.

  Some . . . disturbing facts had been discovered. Several witness swore they heard a herd of ponies tramping about inside the apartment. No-one had seen any ponies exiting or leaving that Saturdawn, though. Furthermore, the fire had been pony-created, most likely intentionally. Beyond the strange accounts of the fast-burning fire, that hadn't even touch the other buildings, 'The Guild' had set several of their Magic-specialists to the scene. The fire  was created by a highly complicated fire-spell.

  All this Fleur told Fancy, and this: Whoever or whatever organized this little strike, for it was an organized strike, was unknown to the guild. They hadn't seen a signature like this before; the precision and non-existent evidence was startling, no crime was this clean. But it was a crime, 'The Guild' was sure.

  As for Fancy's friend, they had spotted his apprentice lingering around the ruins and Right Hoof was spotted around the edge of Canterlot. Unfortunately, 'The Guild's agents had no reason to follow him and where the unicorn had wandered to was a mystery.

The aristocrat stroked his mustache gravely as he thought.  "I see.  Then it is as I thought.  Madame, this is... a matter of grave importance to me, though at the moment there are no true... targets, as it were.  Yet.  Perhaps... La Famille might, with all stealth and secrecy, inquire politely as to the situation with my good friend's assistant and student?  Madame will, of course, be given the usual rewards if she accepts such a task."

The mare's eyes showed no desire at all for the money, so easily gotten anyhow, but they glinted at the first real intellectual task in a long time, and the first true challenge as well.  "Je comprends.  The terms are acceptable.  Mon seigneur will have his information.  Is there anything else?"

Fancy turned his eyes away for a brief moment, knowing the protocols.  "That is all.  Merci, Madame."

"Je vous en prie," came the soft reply, as if from directly overhead.

The aristocrat did not have to turn his head to know he would see nothing, not even hoofprints in the carpet to tell that anypony but himself alone had ever been in the room.

*****

Copper Inkwell was a kind, quiet, middle-aged unicorn with a brown coat and a mane that was once black but now had streaks of grey in it, neatly combed.  He was just the kind of pony Feather would appreciate the company of, and indeed almost as soon as they met they had struck up a sort of friendship.  He had worked with the Scroll family before settling patent litigation lawsuits in the past, and had helped arrange Feather's contract with Weiston A&W in the first place.  The two smiled and hugged each other like old friends when the attorney walked into the laboratory.

"Feather, my old friend!  How are you doing?"

"As well as can be, given the circumstances.  Beaker here has told you about the current situation?"

"Yes indeed, though without more information I can't say for certain whether this is a good idea or not, just yet.  Well, let's not keep the bureaucrats waiting, hmm?  Shall we walk, or should I call a cab?"

"It's not too far, if you don't mind we could just hoof it."

"Certainly, Feather.  And you have your witnesses?"

"These four, if they satisfy protocol?"

"More than satisfy.  Good choice.  Better than picking up random ponies off the street like they do nowadays."

The pair shared a laugh as they exited the research building and made their way towards Weiston headquarters.

Quote
"Oh, don't be like that! You can take time for some lunch. An hour or so, that's not a lot of time, come on it'll be fun!" The midnight mare flipped the sign on the newsstand to 'away for lunch'. Still looking rather tired, she made her way to Ryo, sliding a hoof in the crink of his leg and leading him along.

"Come on, we both need some lunch, might as well be sociable and dine together!" Pulling Ryo along the tree-shaded alley to a neat little cafe, facing away from the main street. Immediately the mare craned her neck, watching one of the customers sitting outside.

"Look here, Ryo! That pegasus has the evening edition, already. I guess the delivery boys are just being lazy today. . . "

Ryo still dazed from being dragged along just smiles for a moment and thinks ("Guess work can wait")
Then Ryo still slightly dazed from being dragged off looks over as Velvet points out the pony with the newspaper

"hu I guess the delivery pony's must be running around by this point"

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 14, 04:19:16
Morning Glory leered at him as she collected her purse by magic and re-affixed it over her shoulder. Her eyes swept over his bizarre appearance. . .

Melancholy eyes followed Glory's form through the crowd. Her words hadn't aroused any fury in that face, only sorrow. Eventually, she passed from his sight and he still stood motionless, horror and fear crept back into that face. After a few minutes of silent thought the pony pushed himself into the crowd. Soon enough he was back on vigil, gazing across at Sterling's building with glazed eyes.

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 14, 06:46:54
"She definitely knows something.. No, don't get yourself mixed up in this. Just turn around and walk away. . . "

The purple unicorn frowned; ears twitching. "You should go, you've already talked to me too long. If any-pony spots us you will be in trouble. They might call you a 'suspect' or they may call you a 'traitor' whatever suits their means."

The unicorn held a hoof up to her head. "But PLEASE just tell me this: Are you here because of Green Strokes' ad?  "

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 14, 12:00:45
Copper Inkwell was a kind, quiet, middle-aged unicorn with a brown coat and a mane that was once black . . .

  The fine corporate sky-scraper was dazzling; a true accomplishment of Pony architecture and magic. The building was finely crafted glass. Every piece of the structure, save the floor, was crafted with magic and held . . . with magic. The overall shape would remind one of a thumb but being ponies the shape was all together more . . . mystic.

  This building held all of Weiston Armor and Weapons' corporate offices and one of the uppermost floors was their destination.

  The glittering of glass dimmed and dissolved into the glow of electric lights - as Feather and Copper entered the building. Whatever magic had been cast on the building, a tinting spell had also been applied. From the outside the windows appeared as mirrors, from the inside it was as if someone had pulled black paper across the windows. The light was still visible but it's intensity was much diminished.

  The lobby was a little wonderland of Ivory. Every chair, table or other piece of furniture was made in some way with Ivory. Save the main greeting desk, that was polished marble.

  The attendant looked over her desk in curiosity. She pushed back her Tan tresses and produced a very shy but welcoming smile.

  "Hello there, may I help you?"

Shofter walked through Canterlot, like how she did everyday. But something was different, and she couldn't put her hoof on it.

"Hey Shoft, what's with that burned-up building which is now rubble over there?" Falliver said as she poked out of Shofter's coat, pointing at the pile of rubble.

"I don't know... Maybe we should check it out." Shofter trotted over to the huge amounts of rubble.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 14, 18:31:08

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 14, 12:00:45
Copper Inkwell was a kind, quiet, middle-aged unicorn with a brown coat and a mane that was once black . . .

  The fine corporate sky-scraper was dazzling; a true accomplishment of Pony architecture and magic. The building was finely crafted glass. Every piece of the structure, save the floor, was crafted with magic and held . . . with magic. The overall shape would remind one of a thumb but being ponies the shape was all together more . . . mystic.

  This building held all of Weiston Armor and Weapons' corporate offices and one of the uppermost floors was their destination.

  The glittering of glass dimmed and dissolved into the glow of electric lights - as Feather and Copper entered the building. Whatever magic had been cast on the building, a tinting spell had also been applied. From the outside the windows appeared as mirrors, from the inside it was as if someone had pulled black paper across the windows. The light was still visible but it's intensity was much diminished.

  The lobby was a little wonderland of Ivory. Every chair, table or other piece of furniture was made in some way with Ivory. Save the main greeting desk, that was polished marble.

  The attendant looked over her desk in curiosity. She pushed back her Tan tresses and produced a very shy but welcoming smile.

  "Hello there, may I help you?"

The professor walked to the counter.  "Hello.  I'm Dr. Feather Scroll, I was notified by a company representative that somepony wanted to see me here for legal purposes?"

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 14, 18:31:08
The unicorn held a hoof up to her head. "But PLEASE just tell me this: Are you here because of Green Strokes' ad?  "

"Yes. Strokes' ad told me of this location." He replied. "And now it's burned."

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 14, 21:00:41
The professor walked to the counter.  "Hello.  I'm Dr. Feather Scroll, I was notified by a company representative that somepony wanted to see me here for legal purposes?"

  The attendant didn't answer at first. She bite down on her lip and pushed through a couple papers, eventually she got to the telephone and after a small conversation - which left her looking shocked and disappointed - she bowed her head.

  "Oh, yes, I'm sorry" She said quietly, choking on 'I'm'. "Someone will be down in just a moment, they'll take you to the conference room, Professor Scroll." Gesturing sadly to a chair, she questioned: "Would, you like to take a seat? It'll really only be a minute. Would you like some coffee?"

  But while the attendant was looking suitably distraught, the elevator door opened revealing a handsome yellow pegasus. A pegasus whom Feather was already acquainted.

  Cormrick Salesburg nodded politely but once again was unable to conceal his look of boredom."Hello, Professor, please follow me!" At least his loud bellowing gave the semblance of energy and friendship.

  The pegasus herded Copper, Feather and the intern into a delicate glass elevator, at least it appeared as such. Soon the small band were speeding upwards and the pegasus was turning to examine the lawyer.

  "So! You are the professor's lawyer?" There was no emotion, only loud words. "It's good you were able to make yourself available, at such short notice and quickly. I approve." But he didn't sound as if he approved, he sounded like he was making a universal fact that no power could deny.

  Soon enough the group had arrived at their destination, a large area in the bend of the the thumb, the whole section was made for conferences and today a small board sat around the table. A small group of ponies Feather had never seen before, no, the Chief Financial Officer was there and it WAS the same auburn Earth-pony as before . . . but his complexion and the way he held himself . . . The once confident 'Times Hay' was slouching over a notepad, every now and then he'd steal a glance at the ponies around him but this glance was full of fear and if ever a pony looked back he was quick to find himself occupied with his pad.

  After a couple moments of chattering the group died down and a Grey Mare stood at the other end of the table. "Welcome, professor. Please have a seat we'd like to begin now ."

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 15, 01:18:56
"Yes. Strokes' ad told me of this location." He replied. "And now it's burned."

  All this had been a little too much for Staples Bright. At first the rubble had put him in a terribly bad mood, then a pony came up warning them they might be arrested? A little too much adventure for this pony. So Staples turned to his new unicorn friend.

  "Uh . . . not to be rude . . . but I'm not getting my tail cut for some-pony I don't know. Give me a shout if you want to hang out sometime but I'm not going to risk imprisonment. Sorry friend, I'm out!"  And with that: Staples Bright was away, shooting through the city like a star.

The purple unicorn sighed. " Well, if you are here to help Green Strokes . . . You'll be marked at one point or another, anyways." She looked at him skeptically, her mouth raised in a half-smile; eyes slanted with sarcasm. "Do you know what you'll be getting yourself into? It won't be any colt ride; this is one of those things you won't be thanked for, if you get it dug up. Ponies might even hate YOU for it." Stepping back and chuckling to herself, she spread her front-hooves wide in the air. As if she could show or even gather these horrible feelings. "Ponies! They live in their wonderful world, or , they call it wonderful and refuse to look at the problems in it! Ponies don't like being unhappy and struggling to make things better makes them 'sad'." All this she said with satire, her half-smile twitching, slightly.

  "Well, they have to face it now! Unless they want to be mindless zombies! Heh, but if that's what they want, why should we care? Why should Strokes try so hard for such ignorant foals . . . Bright Mane's face was hard, frown lines creep in among her features; the smile was gone and her eyes were swimming in that pre-tear liquid.

  Sucking in an angry breath, she continued. "So unless your planning on HELPING pal, Equestria knows we need it, perhaps you should think of the consequences of getting yourself involved. Or perhaps you should think of the consequences of NOT getting involved . . . " Bright mane pressed those front hooves against her head.

  "MAKE UP YOUR MIND!" She screamed.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 15, 15:04:00

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 14, 21:00:41
The professor walked to the counter.  "Hello.  I'm Dr. Feather Scroll, I was notified by a company representative that somepony wanted to see me here for legal purposes?"

  The attendant didn't answer at first. She bite down on her lip and pushed through a couple papers, eventually she got to the telephone and after a small conversation - which left her looking shocked and disappointed - she bowed her head.

  "Oh, yes, I'm sorry" She said quietly, choking on 'I'm'. "Someone will be down in just a moment, they'll take you to the conference room, Professor Scroll." Gesturing sadly to a chair, she questioned: "Would, you like to take a seat? It'll really only be a minute. Would you like some coffee?"

  But while the attendant was looking suitably distraught, the elevator door opened revealing a handsome yellow pegasus. A pegasus whom Feather was already acquainted.

  Cormrick Salesburg nodded politely but once again was unable to conceal his look of boredom."Hello, Professor, please follow me!" At least his loud bellowing gave the semblance of energy and friendship.

  The pegasus herded Copper, Feather and the intern into a delicate glass elevator, at least it appeared as such. Soon the small band were speeding upwards and the pegasus was turning to examine the lawyer.

  "So! You are the professor's lawyer?" There was no emotion, only loud words. "It's good you were able to make yourself available, at such short notice and quickly. I approve." But he didn't sound as if he approved, he sounded like he was making a universal fact that no power could deny.

  Soon enough the group had arrived at their destination, a large area in the bend of the the thumb, the whole section was made for conferences and today a small board sat around the table. A small group of ponies Feather had never seen before, no, the Chief Financial Officer was there and it WAS the same auburn Earth-pony as before . . . but his complexion and the way he held himself . . . The once confident 'Times Hay' was slouching over a notepad, every now and then he'd steal a glance at the ponies around him but this glance was full of fear and if ever a pony looked back he was quick to find himself occupied with his pad.

  After a couple moments of chattering the group died down and a Grey Mare stood at the other end of the table. "Welcome, professor. Please have a seat we'd like to begin now ."

((so whose bright idea was it to fire/assassinate/blacklist/etc the secretary for no good reason :P oh wait, keeping the heads waiting, yeah not a good idea in a megacorp.  I'm sure she'll get a job with the Fancy Foundation For Unemployed Ponies or something :P))

The researcher nodded to Copper Inkwell, who stood next to him as he sat down at his spot at the table.  The lawyer already had a notepad out and was recording exactly what he was legally allowed to record and no less, though no more.  Though equine, he was no pushover when it came to legal matters, and he had a feeling that his knowledge of Equestrian and international laws, bylaws and by-bylaws would be pushed to the limit here, today.

Dr. Scroll, for his part, was mostly unreadable, less because he had a good poker face and more because he had no preconceptions or presuppositions to bring to the table.  He always approached each situation with the same methodical exactness as he did in the laboratory- precise and accurate, as void of emotion as possible.  Even if he had some emotion, it was mixed to the extent as to be a useless statistic anyhow.  He was familiar with most points of science, physical and medical and mental.  He was not easily perturbed, not even by what would render most ponies speechless.  His tenure at the Royal Academy of Magic, teaching everypony from the demon-possessed to Their Majesties' Student herself, had removed his ability to be surprised for the most part.

The two, thus, stood and sat, and of course anypony at the table worth their salt in psychology would have noticed all this in a glance.  Neither fear nor naive hope was on their faces, only a professional interest neither great nor small in the current situation.

*****

Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth was situated in his estate's library, a not exactly small compendium of knowledge regarding the current state of affairs as known by the aristocrat's wide intelligence network, stretching back decades to the First's initial gathering of information.  Specifically, the pony was searching for mysterious vanishings, unexplained assassinations which did not originate with any known assassination group, vanishings and withdrawal of information from the press shortly after the event.  Fancy may have been rich, to an extent which might have lulled any other pony into complacency, but he was no fool.  His father had taught him well to examine every single available detail possible, to make deductions from any information at all, and to rule out the impossible such that what was left, no matter how improbable, was certain to be the truth.  In another life, he might have been a master criminal, or an investigator of the highest order, but here he was simply Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, the most influential and one of the most powerful ponies in the Kingdom of Canterlot and the Equestrian Empire and all its territories.

At his side, as always, was his loyal servant and butler, Blood Blade.  Though no scholar or researcher, the pegasus was a formidable thinker with a keen intellect to match his fighting prowess.  He preferred to analyze situations on the fly and could make snap judgements for rapidly incapacitating would-be assassins in the time it would take lesser ponies to begin registering information.  It was not for naught that he was the personal bodyguard of his Master, though perhaps the Madame his Master so often requested information from could be consider a worthy rival should situations ever come to a head.

The rest of the estate was bustling with the usual activity, both publicly known and secret.  Dishes were cleaned, silverware polished, foods tested for poison, Servants screened, and sensitive information in documents more valuable than the entirety of Ponyville carefully recorded and filed away in dark recesses and hidden vaults with layer upon layer of magical and physical protection.

Whispers floated through seemingly empty halls, in dark alleys all across Equestria.  Some shadows wore hoods, others carried hidden blades beneath their wrists, others still needed no cover or weapon at all, so well hidden in plain sight so as to be effectively invisible, ghostly petals of the great Lily Blossom.

"Avez-vous trouvé?"
"Oui, Madame."
"Très bon. Vous savez quoi faire."
"Oui, Madame.  Vive la Fleur."
"Vive la Fleur."

As Silver scanned the headlines, his well-trained eyes picked out a small selection on the fire. Apparently it had been some sort of mishap with an apartment. Nothing more.
Silver was at first inclined to wonder about the ponies there; surely, in such a fire, there would be at least an injury, let alone not confirming the reader's hopes that all involved were safe.
Electing to investigate the issue himself, just for the sake of mere curiosity, he quickly turned 'round, and dashed back to the building he had passed previously.
Walking up to it with a saddened face, he hardly heeded the weird looking ponies arguing nearby. He leaned down towards the ashes, pulling out one of his many magnification glasses in an attempt to find any decaying bones, or other bodily substance to confirm or deny any deaths.
I know I'm being a real busybody about all this... He thought to himself as he sifted through ashes behind the two arguing ponies, But I just can't help it.

((sorry Roe I got lonly so this is happening and yes he is following Silver))

Ryo looked at the pony who ran off ("odd one would be in such a hurry, somthing doent sit right with this") Ryo stands up and adresses Velvet "Im sorry somthing has come up, I will have to catch up another time im afraid" he smiles and follows after the pony comming up to the once was apartment "what in equestria, a fire when how"

Shofter and Falliver approached the pile of rubble when they heard some talking. They noticed Majem and Bright Mane. Shofter walked over to them. "Hey, do you know what happened to this building here?" she said as she pointed to the rubble.

Morning Glory reentered the lobby of the Capitol Building and made her way to her uncle's floor, just in time to pass the two agents as they departed. Something about them made her uneasy as she strolled past them in the hall. Moving into the sitting room, she went to the side counter to prepare the tea service that always stood at the ready. She had the teapot boiling in seconds with a flick of her horn and poured two cups, adding a mint teabag to one and darjeeling to the other. Placing the two cups on their respective saucers, she picked up the tray in her green magic, heading into her uncle's office with the pair a cups, a spoon and a sugar dish. Tapping the door lightly, she entered.

"A short meeting then? How uncharacteristic. So much for a service for three." She levitated the tray to her uncle, setting on the end table beside his desk. She then retrieved her own cup and sipped it as she sat before him. "What did they want?"

"Something has deeply troubled the Princesses. Or somepony rather." Sterling looked up from his letter-writing and smiled as his niece delivered a much-needed cup of tea before him. "You know of the writer Green Strokes? Seems the bureau has been ordered to harass all of Their Majesties' closest allies over association with the fellow. I haven't seen them this huffed-up since the Changling Inquisition last spring." He collected his tea and lifted it to his lips, taking a long pull. "You saw something in the papers, didn't you? About Strokes? And a fire or attack or something?"

"Yes. While at Freefly's I spotted a copy of the Equestrian National reporting a fire at Stroke's place of residence, and that he and his associates had disappeared. But when I picked up the evening edition, the story looked like it had been hushed up." She looked pensively over the top of her teacup. "I was thinking of going and having a poke around. But if the Princesses are so vehemently opposed to affiliation then I suppose I'd best-"

"You will go and see what you can find. Do not let them intimidate you." Sterling looked very stern as he regarded his young charge. "I want to know what the Princesses are so afraid of. Why are they so reluctant to share information with us? Is it a threat to the ponies of Canterlot? Of Equestria?" He gestured to the half-composed letter on his desk. "I am going to ask Celestia myself, but I doubt I will receive any answers, presuming the blasted thing falls under her eyes at all."

"Are you certain Uncle? It seems like there could be a great deal of trouble." Morning Glory usually was reluctant to follow rules, but this threat from the Crown sounded serious, and she had seen ponies--even higher-up ponies--disappear from the Canterlot Court for sticking their noses where they shouldn't.

Sterling Silver stood, strode about his desk, and took his niece's hooves in his."There's no trouble I can't protect you from, my dear. I will see that you are cleared of all blame if you are in any way persecuted." He released her and pushed a lock of her hair behind her ear, then planted a kiss on her forehead, just above her horn. "Now, you'd best head home and change. You'll draw far too much attention in court-dress if you're to be out on the streets. See if Featherdust has something a little less...eye-catching."

Morning Glory looked hesitant for a moment. She knew her uncle was the kind of stallion that took his duty to the people very seriously. He and their family had been part of the Equestrian government since it's inception. If he judged that this was important, then she would follow his orders to the letter. She had little pride for the rest of her family (entitled, snooty aristocrats as they were), but her uncle and his father before him--her grandfather--were noble leaders that sought only to help and protect the ponies of Equestria. "Yes, Uncle." She reached up and left her own kiss on his cheek before getting to her hooves and making for the door.

"Morning Glory?"

She turned. "Uncle?"

"Thank you."

A small smile graced her lips and she waved before moving out into the sitting room, collecting her bag and coat from her office and once more leaving the Capitol Building. Standing on the street, a light over-coat covering her sapphire taffeta gown, she pulled a small silver bell out of her bag and rang it gently. She then waited for their family's driver to arrive with their carriage, as he always did within two minutes of hearing the enchanted bell.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 15, 15:04:00
The purple unicorn sighed. " Well, if you are here to help Green Strokes . . . You'll be marked at one point or another, anyways." She looked at him skeptically, her mouth raised in a half-smile; eyes slanted with sarcasm. "Do you know what you'll be getting yourself into? It won't be any colt ride; this is one of those things you won't be thanked for, if you get it dug up. Ponies might even hate YOU for it." Stepping back and chuckling to herself, she spread her front-hooves wide in the air. As if she could show or even gather these horrible feelings. "Ponies! They live in their wonderful world, or , they call it wonderful and refuse to look at the problems in it! Ponies don't like being unhappy and struggling to make things better makes them 'sad'." All this she said with satire, her half-smile twitching, slightly.

  "Well, they have to face it now! Unless they want to be mindless zombies! Heh, but if that's what they want, why should we care? Why should Strokes try so hard for such ignorant foals . . . Bright Mane's face was hard, frown lines creep in among her features; the smile was gone and her eyes were swimming in that pre-tear liquid.

  Sucking in an angry breath, she continued. "So unless your planning on HELPING pal, Equestria knows we need it, perhaps you should think of the consequences of getting yourself involved. Or perhaps you should think of the consequences of NOT getting involved . . . " Bright mane pressed those front hooves against her head.

  "MAKE UP YOUR MIND!" She screamed.

"If somepony needs my help, then I'll be sure to help! Count me in."
"Especially for such a well-known traveller. Oh, the stories he could tell. I bet they're amazing." He thought to himself as several paragraphs of "The Seventeen Obstacles" popped up in his mind. Being too lazy to go on adventures himself, Majem likes to read books written by adventurers.

Quote from: Tiger on 2012 Nov 15, 23:10:21
Shofter and Falliver approached the pile of rubble when they heard some talking. They noticed Majem and Bright Mane. Shofter walked over to them. "Hey, do you know what happened to this building here?" she said as she pointed to the rubble.

Before Majem could say any more, he was approached by two more strangers. He thought he knew a lot of ponies by now, but Canterlot seemed to have new ponies around every corner.
The sudden appearance of the two startled Majem a bit and he stuttered a reply. "W-Well, ob-obviously it burned d-down. But I-I don't think it was an a-accident."

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 15, 17:10:01
The researcher nodded to Copper Inkwell, who stood next to him as he sat down at his spot at the table. . .

  The gray mare nodded, A small white glistening beneath keen eyes. "Good, make yourself comfortable Feather, this shouldn't take long, if you are optimistic." Here she gave her smallest of small smiles, a mysterious glimpse at the white hidden behind the gray. "Since I can see very clearly you are nothing of the kind, I would suggest relaxing."

   Without bothering to introduce herself, she nodded to the ponies around the table, sat and fixed her gaze on Feather. A peeping over raised hooves.

   That one familiar face, rose. The financial executive, Times Hay, shook his papers in order, hooves shaking with some hidden emotion . . . fear? Anxiety? "Ah, Hm, yes, well . . . the main reason we are gathered . . . here . . . is to re-write Professor Feather Scroll's contract.

  This earned him a rather humorous glance from the Gray mare. One could envision her patronizing tone: "Ah, very good, Times Hay. Very good."

  "Ye-yes . . . well shall we . . . get to it, then? It - it, it looks rather plain. .  ." This earned him another look " . . . we just need to figure out your pay for expediting production . .. "

  The gray mare turned back to Feather, a sarcastic smile on her face accompanied by a miniscule nod, as if she were showing the professor the incompetence that surrounded her. "What do you say professor? Is it simple?"

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 15, 17:10:01
Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth was situated in his estate's library, a not exactly small compendium of knowledge . . .

   Unfortunately, even Fancy's library was not that extensive. His collection, a fine credit to history, magic and politics, didn't hold anything terribly specific. Did this stop his elite brigade of secretaries? Nay, they found themselves small bits of nonsense and pieces of half-written knowledge. Patching these ideas together they came to Fancy with a small and not particularly helpful quilt.

  There was an ancient pony hymn, something the researchers connected to unexplained disappearances.  It seemed to have been recorded around the turn of the first millennium but hymns like this are generally very old and its exact point of origin couldn't be traced:

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Nov 16, 05:27:03

Quote from: Tiger on 2012 Nov 15, 23:10:21
Shofter and Falliver approached the pile of rubble when they heard some talking. They noticed Majem and Bright Mane. Shofter walked over to them. "Hey, do you know what happened to this building here?" she said as she pointed to the rubble.

Before Majem could say any more, he was approached by two more strangers. He thought he knew a lot of ponies by now, but Canterlot seemed to have new ponies around every corner.
The sudden appearance of the two startled Majem a bit and he stuttered a reply. "W-Well, ob-obviously it burned d-down. But I-I don't think it was an a-accident."

Shofter looked at him, suspicious.
The parakeet on Shofter's shoulder said "We're asking HOW the fire started!"

Quote from: Tiger, Chirp, Link, Ryo on 2012 Nov 17, 18:16:23
Shofter looked at him, suspicious. . .

"Oh yes, let's all take interest in the thing AFTER it's gone and done. When it can't hurt us anymore, yes? It's interesting when it cannot affect you .. . ."

  The purple unicorn flashed her angry smile. "What RIGHT do you have to ask for this information? You'll snoop until your interest dries up . . ." Her eyes caught site of Link.

  "LOOK! Samples, tests, emotionally-removed. Completely impartial. Science . . ." The unicorn vomited this final word, like a curse or a hated tyrant.  "But you . . ." She turned to Majem. ". . . You said you'd help? Well for you this won't be a shock but for the rest of you! The unicorn pointed stiffly behind them.
"You're all marked!"

Just a short distance away a small troop of guards stood at the ready. Their company commander smiled deviously. A fantastical plumage caressing his face, his dozens of medals swaying in the breeze: "Salutations, firiends . .."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 17, 15:32:40

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 15, 17:10:01
The researcher nodded to Copper Inkwell, who stood next to him as he sat down at his spot at the table. . .

  The gray mare nodded, A small white glistening beneath keen eyes. "Good, make yourself comfortable Feather, this shouldn't take long, if you are optimistic." Here she gave her smallest of small smiles, a mysterious glimpse at the white hidden behind the gray. "Since I can see very clearly you are nothing of the kind, I would suggest relaxing."

   Without bothering to introduce herself, she nodded to the ponies around the table, sat and fixed her gaze on Feather. A peeping over raised hooves.

   That one familiar face, rose. The financial executive, Times Hay, shook his papers in order, hooves shaking with some hidden emotion . . . fear? Anxiety? "Ah, Hm, yes, well . . . the main reason we are gathered . . . here . . . is to re-write Professor Feather Scroll's contract.

  This earned him a rather humorous glance from the Gray mare. One could envision her patronizing tone: "Ah, very good, Times Hay. Very good."

  "Ye-yes . . . well shall we . . . get to it, then? It - it, it looks rather plain. .  ." This earned him another look " . . . we just need to figure out your pay for expediting production . .. "

  The gray mare turned back to Feather, a sarcastic smile on her face accompanied by a miniscule nod, as if she were showing the professor the incompetence that surrounded her. "What do you say professor? Is it simple?"

* * *

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 15, 17:10:01
Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth was situated in his estate's library, a not exactly small compendium of knowledge . . .

   Unfortunately, even Fancy's library was not that extensive. His collection, a fine credit to history, magic and politics, didn't hold anything terribly specific. Did this stop his elite brigade of secretaries? Nay, they found themselves small bits of nonsense and pieces of half-written knowledge. Patching these ideas together they came to Fancy with a small and not particularly helpful quilt.

  There was an ancient pony hymn, something the researchers connected to unexplained disappearances.  It seemed to have been recorded around the turn of the first millennium but hymns like this are generally very old and its exact point of origin couldn't be traced:

The Princess, those saintly beings;
Created for us law and justice.
Where once disorder happily sowed.
We followed their rules and happy we were.
But now dear children take heed, take care.
The princess are not to be ignored.
Their laws are not for them alone;
They keep the beasts a-bay.

Feather listened politely to each pony's complaint, his face neutral.  At the mare's question, he merely made a gesture, one which could have been interpreted any number of ways, though positively for any given viewer.  It could have been acknowledgement, or agreement, or simple acceptance, but it was a response.

In truth, the pony could not really make up his mind on how to respond diplomatically.  Unbeknownst to him, his gesture was the best thing to do in that situation.

*****

Fancy, for his part, was not surprised that something so obviously high-level bore so few results, but unlike what others might have done in his place, he did not for a moment rule out the possibility of the few links his secretaries brought him being portends of something much more grave and real than mere breezie-tales.  He ordered the information collected and recorded, and placed a watch to ensure none of the information got in or out of the Estate, no matter by what means, come changeling and Discord Himself.

His thoughts turned to Strokes.  Where was his wandering friend?  What terrible secret could he have possibly uncovered that lead to such extreme measures?

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 17, 23:06:16

Quote from: Tiger, Chirp, Link, Ryo on 2012 Nov 17, 18:16:23
Shofter looked at him, suspicious. . .

"Oh yes, let's all take interest in the thing AFTER it's gone and done. When it can't hurt us anymore, yes? It's interesting when it cannot affect you .. . ."

  The purple unicorn flashed her angry smile. "What RIGHT do you have to ask for this information? You'll snoop until your interest dries up . . ." Her eyes caught site of Link.

  "LOOK! Samples, tests, emotionally-removed. Completely impartial. Science . . ." The unicorn vomited this final word, like a curse or a hated tyrant.  "But you . . ." She turned to Majem. ". . . You said you'd help? Well for you this won't be a shock but for the rest of you! The unicorn pointed stiffly behind them.
"You're all marked!"

Just a short distance away a small troop of guards stood at the ready. Their company commander smiled deviously. A fantastical plumage caressing his face, his dozens of medals swaying in the breeze: "Salutations, firiends . .."

"We wanna help too!" Falliver the parakeet said.

"Wha-? No we don't! We'd just get into more trouble! And it'd be your fault, Falliver!"

"M-my fault!? I just want to lend a helping hand!"

The two continued arguing.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 17, 23:06:16
... "Salutations, firiends . .."

Majem quickly turned towards the guard. He was more nervous than before, but he tried to remain calm as he responds.
"Hello, um, captain?" He said as he glanced over the commander's medals. "I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with the Hierarchy of the armed forces. Anyway, are you here to check on the incident that took place here? I'd love to know who's responsible for this. And so does this pony over here." He said and pointed at Shofter.

"She doesn't seem very concerned about the guards. What's the deal with her?"

And Shofter was arguing with a talking parakeet. ovO

All marked? I'm not quite sure I follow, in fact I will truly admit to being oblivious as to what is fully occurring but this all seems to odd"
Ryo mumbled to himself

Silver blinked, wide-eyed at the unicorn's sudden outburst at him. Just as he was about to explain himself to her, he noticed the guard captain. Relieved to finally see someone who might know what's going on, he quickly trotted up to the troops.
Bending his neck up to look up to the massive guards, he shrunk a little under their gaze before politely asking;
"Hello there! It's so nice to finally see some authorities. You see, I saw a small pocket of this described in the paper, and thought I'd come to see what's going on. Before I know it, this strange lady is screaming at me, and now you're all here. If you would be so kind, can you tell me what exactly is going on here?"
Silver tried his best to remain conformed, polite, and clear-speaking during his short witness to the guards, but something made him uneasy about them...Was it that captain?

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 17, 23:51:17
Feather listened politely to each pony's complaint, his face neutral. . . .

The gray mare's smile was back. "Very well, professor. Let's get the proceedings done with." A small hoof waved the other ponies on, the contract was underway . . .

*****

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 17, 23:51:17
Fancy, for his part, was not surprised that something so obviously high-level bore so few results . . .

Fleur had divined some information, her network had easily found Right-Hoof; her shadows tracked his strange route.  A curling winding path leading from the outskirts of Canterlot to a remote location, high in the Canterlot Mountains.  He'd dig for a few hours then head back.

* * *

Quote from: Link, Ryo, Tiger, Chirp on 2012 Nov 18, 09:25:48
Silver blinked, wide-eyed at the unicorn's sudden outburst at him . . .

  The captain plucked at his cuffs, a small creeping smiling inching up his face. His eyes were everywhere, never still but never once landing on any of them. "Of course my friends, please come with me, we'll explain everything back at the palace.  This zone has been labled sensitive for certain classified resaons. We'll need to . . . " He sighed. "Ask some questions . . .  as it were."

  Finally, his eyes passed to the groups', landing on each of them in sequence, eyes cold full of malice and dark humor. "So . . .  shall we?"

  The captain's troop had been slowly encricling the group.

  "Let's make it easy for all of us, especially you Bright Mane. Your blasphemous slander can no longer be allowed to run amuck. YOU, miss, are under-arrest. "

  Shrugging his shoulders and adjusting his wings, the captain moved forward. "Don't resist."

  Bright Mane's face became even more controrted, fear and anger turning her expresion . .. feral. "This is disgusting. " And she was done. Shaking slightly but not attempting to escape.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 21, 16:15:10

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 17, 23:51:17
Feather listened politely to each pony's complaint, his face neutral. . . .

The gray mare's smile was back. "Very well, professor. Let's get the proceedings done with." A small hoof waved the other ponies on, the contract was underway . . .

*****

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 17, 23:51:17
Fancy, for his part, was not surprised that something so obviously high-level bore so few results . . .

Fleur had divined some information, her network had easily found Right-Hoof; her shadows tracked his strange route.  A curling winding path leading from the outskirts of Canterlot to a remote location, high in the Canterlot Mountains.  He'd dig for a few hours then head back.

Feather nodded politely, and was soon deep in the discussion, Inkwell helping with technical terms and explanations whenever necessary.

*****

"I see," nodded the aristocrat gravely.  "Merci, Madame.  The payment is in the usual location.  I would, however, be quite interested in finding the reason for this strange behavior, without others knowing, of course.  Learning where my good friend is might also bring great gratitude from me.  And indeed, this entire situation... it is quite mysterious, no?"

The mare smiled.  "Oui, milord.  La Famille will consider your offer."

Fancy smiled absently into the darkness as the whisper hung in the air.  "Merci, Madame."

("Something doesn't sit right here, I don't like this guy")
Ryo places one hoof on a card in his saddle bag but removes it
("no its not worth it not until there's more information")

"Fine then I'm willing to hear what you have to say, but I give you warning don't waste my time" Ryo glares at the captain disapproving of his treatment of Bright Mane

(Time to cause trouble  :P)

Morning Glory strolled down the streets of Canterlot in a far less eye-catching outfit. However, she very much carried herself as a noble would and the jewelry still adorning her neck and ears betrayed her wealth to those with a keen eye. Her simple saddle-style dress tactfully covered her cutiemark, making it more difficult for her to be identified.

Levitating a scrap of parchment from her bag, she checked the address again, then turned left at the street corner and continued on. Rounding another bend, she began to hear voices. Peeking around the side of a tall apartment complex, she spotted a group of guards. Inwardly cursing, she saw them standing before the charred remains of what had to be her destination. Not to mention they looked to be hauling some looky-loos off, just for having a peek. It didn't sit well with her, and it made her job a great deal more difficult. She watched for a bit longer, and her ears perked at the name "Bright Mane". She was pretty certain that was the name of one of Strokes' companions. Morning Glory needed to take action.

With a smirk, she lifted a hoof and mussed her mane a bit, shaking it out of its loose bun. She bit her lip for a moment, and tears welled in her eyes. Finally, she pulled off her front left velvet slipper and carefully tucked in her bag. She was ready.

"Oh help! Help!" She cantered daintily down the street, heading for the group nearby. "Guards! Help!" She blubbered quite convincingly as she approached. "I saw him! That horrible criminal. Help!" She simpered loudly in a pathetic voice, limping down the street with one of her shoes missing and while she strove to look bedraggled, she was sure to let her forelock fall into her face in an attractive way as she batted her eyelashes. Palace guards we often enough easy prey for her.

((hoo boy, we've got a catwoman 2.0 here lol  let's see if it works on Agents))

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 21, 16:31:27
Feather nodded politely, and was soon deep in the discussion, Inkwell helping with technical terms and explanations whenever necessary.

The meeting was quick, the main and really ONLY request was to expedite research, having the product finished in the week seemed an essential point in the contract. At first the group seemed to quibble over expense but it seemed only a test to prevent Feather from asking for unreasonable sums . . .  They were quick to agree on tripling the professors' salary, should he manage to complete the product before next week rolled around.

  "We'll look forward to hearing from you professor. Please don't keep us waiting." The gray mare nodded and it was clear the proceedings were over. Without a word of dismissal, the ponies were already leaving.

  Copper was rather suprized by the smooth negotions, the company didn't put up much of a fight and a tripling of a salary  . . . was highly irregular. Still asking for the professor to expedite his research, to this extent, did seem worthy of that sum . . .  Copper was just suprized how easy it was to reach that acceptable value.

  Copper looked over from re-packing his briefcase, a sad far-away appearence came across his eyes and perhaps he didn't see feather at all, but he did speak: "Can you do it Scroll? A week . . . a week to finish all that research . .." Still his speech was more rhetorical than anything and when he finished he got up slowly. "Let's go Scroll, I'm not planning on sticking around here . . . "

 
*****

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 21, 16:31:27

"I see," nodded the aristocrat gravely.  "Merci, Madame.  The payment is in the usual location. . . .

"Oui milord, save . . . we have searched for the Green Knight, there have been no leads yet. For the moment our eyes are blind to Strokes, the shadows either do not touch him . . . or he is completely engulfed in them. "

* * *

(Scene: Morning, Link, Ryo, Majeem and Tiger)

  The captain flinched at the calls for help . . . until he saw the mare 'begging' for assistance.  Turning encouraged eyes upon his troop he shouted: "You two, with me. The rest of you make sure these . . . " Here he paused to raise his eyebrows at the group and smile a little smirk. ". . . informants stay put. I don't want them to run off." Then his eyes and smile dissapeared on Bright Mane. "If she gets away I'll see you demoted." With a brisk salute and a carefull removal of his helm he turned his full attention to the mare.

  Tsking, he smiled a cold curved line. "Tsk, Tsk, what a horrible shame, your clothes are all in shambles; rags like those don't suit you, madame . . . Now, what is this criminal you speak of?" His hoof tapped the plumage and he took Morning's full figure in shamelessly.

  "As guards we have an interest in these things you know, finding criminals, that is." His smile was present again, directed at the guards this time; the one nearest him frowned, while the other chortled without reserve.

* * *

  Bright Mane looked ready to bolt, her eyes as wide as they could possibly be, without bursting out of her head, eyes twitching and shaking. She didn't seem able to control her ears, they flicked in a new direction every moment. And finally the stress of the situation didn't seem able to build in her anymore, she burst. A burst of speed, a quick dashing towards the east, that direction the guards had come from, but the one left most vulnerable as the captain moved to help the 'distressed' mare.

* * *

  The captain crinked his neck as he craned to see the purple unicorn shoot away. "BLAST! GET HER!" Grouping at his neck in burning anger and dropping his helm; he shouted: "I SAID GET HER!"

  The entire group charged afer her, several taking flight in-order to out-flank her. The only guard left behind was the captain.

  He turned again towards the dissapearing group, a spasm of pain pushing him down on one knee. "You foals! Not all of you! Why in Celestia's name did we not arrest Bright Mane earlier? So we could catch more traitors.  . . " He gestured at the group behind him. "GET BACK HERE!"

  But the guards had taken his orders to heart, desperately chasing after that purple mare.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 21, 22:09:08

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 21, 16:31:27
Feather nodded politely, and was soon deep in the discussion, Inkwell helping with technical terms and explanations whenever necessary.

The meeting was quick, the main and really ONLY request was to expedite research, having the product finished in the week seemed an essential point in the contract. At first the group seemed to quibble over expense but it seemed only a test to prevent Feather from asking for unreasonable sums . . .  They were quick to agree on tripling the professors' salary, should he manage to complete the product before next week rolled around.

  "We'll look forward to hearing from you professor. Please don't keep us waiting." The gray mare nodded and it was clear the proceedings were over. Without a word of dismissal, the ponies were already leaving.

  Copper was rather suprized by the smooth negotions, the company didn't put up much of a fight and a tripling of a salary  . . . was highly irregular. Still asking for the professor to expedite his research, to this extent, did seem worthy of that sum . . .  Copper was just suprized how easy it was to reach that acceptable value.

  Copper looked over from re-packing his briefcase, a sad far-away appearence came across his eyes and perhaps he didn't see feather at all, but he did speak: "Can you do it Scroll? A week . . . a week to finish all that research . .." Still his speech was more rhetorical than anything and when he finished he got up slowly. "Let's go Scroll, I'm not planning on sticking around here . . . "

The professor, for his part, smiled and nodded and repeated his way through the whole meeting, and was already putting his laboratory coat back on when his good friend and attorney addressed him.  "Oh?  Hmm, well, yes, I suppose you might say it was somewhat odd, even for Weiston A&W.  Still, research grants!"

The two made their way through the winding streets of Canterlot.  "Yes, research grants!  And speaking of which, for the project itself, the experimentation and data collection is mostly done already; all that's really left is the number-crunching.  The rest is just math!  Simple enough.  The interns should be able to fly through the calculations without much hassle-"

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 21, 23:01:51
  The captain crinked his neck as he craned to see the purple unicorn shoot away. "BLAST! GET HER!" Grouping at his neck in burning anger and dropping his helm; he shouted: "I SAID GET HER!"

  The entire group charged afer her, several taking flight in-order to out-flank her. The only guard left behind was the captain.

"WHAT in the Sweet Sisters' Names-"

The researcher barely had time to step aside as a raggedy mare and a swarm of Royal Guards rushed past at full gallop, disappearing around the corner as their captain shouted something incoherently from a burned building, which Feather guessed to be the one the cabby had talked about the other day.  He just stared curiously after the guards.

"...the Hay was that?!  Criminals and crime scenes these days.  Ah well, nothing that concerns us- back to research!"
 
*****

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 21, 22:09:08

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 21, 16:31:27

"I see," nodded the aristocrat gravely.  "Merci, Madame.  The payment is in the usual location. . . .

"Oui milord, save . . . we have searched for the Green Knight, there have been no leads yet. For the moment our eyes are blind to Strokes, the shadows either do not touch him . . . or he is completely engulfed in them. "

Fancy furrowed his brows in deep thought.  "Curious, very, very curious.  I am beginning to think it is the latter, it is not in his nature to hide himself away in this way, not unless..."

He looked at the mare before him, who seemed to be examining her neatly clipped fetlocks, but was, as Fancy knew, listening with all attention and processing the information with as much genius as he.

"Je comprends."

Morning Glory, tears trickling down her cheeks, opened her mouth to speak, but stumbled back as the captain began to yell, directing his squad to capture the purple unicorn mare. Idiot! She thought to herself, You couldn't wait until I had them wrapped around my hoof...oh well. My distraction will have to be all the better. Whimpering, she stepped forward to grasp the hoof of the captain. "Oh sir! Dear sir! Thank the sun and stars you were here. I saw him! The "Green" stallion."

She paused for effect and gave a convincing shudder of fear. "My mother told me to watch out for him. Showed me the picture. Mother is a book-keeper for the Guard, you see. She warned me to stay away from here and that stallion, but I wanted to visit my grandmother today. We have tea once a week, you see, and she's been feeling so ill and I..." She trailed off to sob dramatically before continuing."But before I could get home again I recognized him as I crossed the street!" She paused, trying to remember her research into the "Green" party's appearance, while trying to talk as quickly as possible, in an effort to feign panic.

"He saw me looking! And he ran over, grabbed me! He shouted at me to forget I had seen him. That I could tell no one." She drew herself up. "But I will not let him get away! He will not frighten me! I know you will protect me, wont you, brave sir?" She shuddered and dabbed at her eyes with a lace handkerchief, before gazing at him with large, watery eyes.

Quote from: GalvinRoe(Scene: Morning, Link, Ryo, Majeem and Tiger)

  The captain flinched at the calls for help . . . until he saw the mare 'begging' for assistance.  Turning encouraged eyes upon his troop he shouted: "You two, with me. The rest of you make sure these . . . " Here he paused to raise his eyebrows at the group and smile a little smirk. ". . . informants stay put. I don't want them to run off." Then his eyes and smile dissapeared on Bright Mane. "If she gets away I'll see you demoted." With a brisk salute and a carefull removal of his helm he turned his full attention to the mare.

  Tsking, he smiled a cold curved line. "Tsk, Tsk, what a horrible shame, your clothes are all in shambles; rags like those don't suit you, madame . . . Now, what is this criminal you speak of?" His hoof tapped the plumage and he took Morning's full figure in shamelessly.

  "As guards we have an interest in these things you know, finding criminals, that is." His smile was present again, directed at the guards this time; the one nearest him frowned, while the other chortled without reserve.

Shofter and Falliver stopped arguing as they heard the guard say so.

"...Now look what you've gotten us in now, Falliver," Shofter said in annoyance. Falliver just smiled shamefully  X3

Majem silently watched what the other ponies were doing. He had no way of reacting to the current situation, it was all a bit too strange for him.
"What?! The guards are looking for Green Strokes?! But why?" He thought to himself and looked at the other three ponies who came to the burned down building. "They're here for the ad, too? Perhaps we can discuss this somewhere."

"Well that was... strange, to say the least. Hey, you guys want to go for a donut? I'm feeling generous today. It's not everyday you meet new ponies during an arrest." Majem asked Shofter, Ryo and Silver and pulled a pouch out of his bag. He looked over at Morning Glory, but she seemed to be busy with the guard.
"Green pony wanted by the guards attacks random citizens? Doubtful. Hehehe. She's here for the ad as well, isn't she?"

"Y'all know Donut Joe, right? His donuts are the best! Come on, let's go!" He said and walked away from the scene, hoping the other ponies would follow him.

The entire scene seemed to go by in a flash - there were guards, and that weird unicorn tried to escape, and then an obviously (to Silver anyway) acting mare trying to distract the guards...Great, I've got myself into another mess. With the way these guards are talking, I'll be hauled off to jail within the hour for looking at rubble...
His train of thought was quickly derailed though, as the guards all ran off in a flurry to catch that purple mare. She was obviously affiliated with this...Green Stokes? Whatever his name is...
When a nice-looking blue pony gestured for them all to leave during this distraction, Silver was happy to oblige.
Walking up beside him, he whispered in the other stallion's ear -
"Excuse me friend, but I think we're all in a much bigger mess that simply being interviewed about an apartment fire; we should get out of sight before we discuss anything - for all we know, that unicorn will be us if we hang around much longer...I suggest we find a more...secluded place to discuss this."

Quote from: Link on 2012 Nov 22, 08:50:28
"Excuse me friend, but I think we're all in a much bigger mess that simply being interviewed about an apartment fire; we should get out of sight before we discuss anything - for all we know, that unicorn will be us if we hang around much longer...I suggest we find a more...secluded place to discuss this."

Majem nodded at the pony's suggestion. "I know, but we have to get away from the guard first, then we'll see who wantst to discuss it. And lastly, I really want a donut." He whispered back at Silver.

"If you want I can help us get out of here, Im not quite sure what is going on but you two seem more trustworthy than that guy, so If I help you guys out are you willing to explain what is going on"Ryo wondered away whispering two the two as he walks past away from said captain

"just answer me this and I will help,  Is there something amiss here"

Ryo takes out a note book and a pen out of his saddle bag with something in the page that to a normal view appears to be a bookmark

([B]Scene[/B]: Morning Glory, Link, Majem, Tiger)

The captain turned on her, eye's blazing. For a moment a brief second it seemed he was going to strike her, but at her words his face softened and soon enough  concealed curiosity came across his face, along with other elusive emotions. "Strokes . . . you saw . . .  Strokes? He tried to . . . assault you?" His eyes flicked about Morning's face, then he smiled. "So? Another crime to tack onto the stallion's record, with this we can publish his crimes to warn all Pony-kin. We've GOT him!" He nearly cheered aloud. 

  But here he stopped, his anger flaring up once again, as his eyes caught the group's movement. "HOLD! What do all of you think you are doing? You can't just leave; if you attempt to do so I'll have half the force after you by tomorrow." Here his eyes narrowed and more warning crept into his voice, "You cannot get away, so I suggest you stay put."

  He turned his head back to Morning, nothing but confidence was behind his words. "These criminals won't cause anymore trouble, please lead the way Miss. . ."
A cool smile enhanced the spite in his eyes. "I haven't had the pleasure of truely making your aquaintence, miss. Walk and talk, miss, we can't let the most wanted criminal get away."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 22, 14:33:05
"just answer me this and I will help,  Is there something amiss here"

"Definitely. Green Strokes, eccentric author, put an ad in the paper telling us to come to this location. And what do you know? The building's burned down. And from what I could tell from that mare with the guard, I'd say all of canterlot is after him. I'm certain he's dug up something important." He managed to whisper back before the guard yelled at them.

Majem turned around to look at the guard, who seemed to be busy with the mare again. "So, you want us to just sit here, then?"

  Rolling his eyes at Majem and not fully turning to face him, he answered with obvious impatience. "I think THAT is established. Just sit yourselves down and wait till the troop returns. Maybe I'll be back before them, with someone you may already be aquaintenced wtih . . ."

  Once again facing Morning but this time with urgency he ordered: "Let's go, we've got to make time. Who knows how long Strokes will be here!"

* * *

  Figures in the shadows stirred, shapes rushed across the peripherals of the ponies, shapes unable to spot directly. These shadows conversed with other shadows, soft whisperings inaudible to most pony-kind. These shadows danced their way to the Fancy estate, and embodied their knowledge in Fleur . . .

"There are whispers of Green Strokes . . . milord."

  Relaying all she just learned to her wealthy patron.

  "Milord . . .  we have not spotted him, but even should the rumour prove false, I believe these ponies mentioning him may be of interest to you . . .

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 22, 15:55:24Figures in the shadows stirred, shapes rushed across the peripherals of the ponies, shapes unable to spot directly. These shadows conversed with other shadows, soft whisperings inaudible to most pony-kind. These shadows danced their way to the Fancy estate, and embodied their knowledge in Fleur . . .

"There are whispers of Green Strokes . . . milord."

  Relaying all she just learned to her wealthy patron.

  "Milord . . .  we have not spotted him, but even should the rumour prove false, I believe these ponies mentioning him may be of interest to you . . .

The aristocrat thought quickly.  "Je comprends, Madame.  It may be of great interest to us indeed.  And I would be.... très reconnaissante if I might have them here, alone, without any notice of their disappearance coming to anypony.  It is clear that this is no ordinary incident, after all..."

He looked at the map on the wall, a spider's web of pins and string crisscrossing the entire world in various colors, the information from his secretaries and news clippings pinned here and there in neat rows, thousands upon thousands of disappearances, traitors and heretics, nobles and freethinkers, the victims of a vast conspiracy stretching back eons, possibly back to the very founding of the earliest nations.

"Strokes, Strokes... what HAVE you gotten yourself entangled in?"

*****

The laboratory was surprisingly silent today, save for the scratching of many quills and pencils on scrolls and of chalk on slate.  Enormous equations on optical studies and magical distortion fields covered the ten chalkboards on the walls around the room, as well as on crumpled notes and crossed-out figures where sign errors and mislabeled variables had created inconsistencies.

On a rolling chalkboard, an intern was filling out a large table of values, and letters in Ancient Equestrian and Crystal runes could be seen here and there, bewildering to a laypony but very clear and precise to Academy graduates.  Every now and then, whispers could be heard from one embarrassed intern or another.

"Hey, do you remember the conversion for-"
"Energy is six-point-six-two-six-times-ten-to-the-negative-thirty-four multiplied by frequency."
"Thanks."

Then, the room would descend into silence again.  The professor, for his part, was furiously scratching out equations and double-checking calculations as values came in from all around the room.  Every now and then, he would manipulate the strange pony-shaped object in the center of the room with his magic, and various parts would appear to vanish entirely from sight.

Ryo waits until the guard is out of hearing range and site
"well not to state the obvious but I think we should move out of this area, something doesn't sit right with me, and to be fair I really don't want to deal with a foolish guard right now"

Ryo turns around and starts to walk away

"Oi you two are you going to sit there arguing and get questioned by fools or are you following along also, ether way its your choice"

Behind the captain, Morning Glory winced. She had hoped to distract him from noticing the others, but too late. At least she had gotten rid of the rest of the guards. Now if she could just lead the captain far enough away on a wild goose chase, they would have a chance to get away. As he focused on them, she lit her horn to pull out one of her business cards, hiding it under the waistband of her dress.

Morning Glory stepped up to meet the captain, swishing her tail as she went to stand at his side. She straitened her clothes, and while she bent to smooth her dress, she tangled the small card in her tail. Straitening up, she brushed her forelock out of her face and dabbed the last of the tear tracks from her face with her handkerchief before tucking it in the collar of her bodice. 

She then gestured up the street, where she had come from. "This way, officer." She moved closer and leaned into his shoulder. "My name is Azalea, good sir. I am a gardener for the Silver family." She had perfected skills in inventing quickly and convincingly, as she often had to when liaising with delegates and officials. She seemed to have a good story built; if she was recognized from around the manor, she had a cover story. She smiled up at him, fluttering her eyelashes again. "And might I know the name of my savior?" She lowered her eyelids as she spoke, gently patting his foreleg with her own dainty hoof.

As she began to lead him away side-by-side, she swished her tail hard, dislodging the card to flutter on to the ground at Majem's feet. She left with a silent plead that they would notice it. And that the captain wouldn't.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 22, 20:57:46
Ryo waits until the guard is out of hearing range and site
"well not to state the obvious but I think we should move out of this area, something doesn't sit right with me, and to be fair I really don't want to deal with a foolish guard right now"

Ryo turns around and starts to walk away

"Oi you two are you going to sit there arguing and get questioned by fools or are you following along also, ether way its your choice"

"I-I'm coming!" Falliver said as she flew over. Shofter just sighed, and followed along.

The observant blue unicorn saw what Morning Glory was doing and hid the card in his bag before anypony saw it. He looked up at her and couldn't help but chuckle. "Nothing more manipulative than a mare. Poor guard." He thought to himself.

Majem went after Ryo, troubled by 'breaking' the law. But his curiosity got the best of him. He just had to know what's going on and these ponies seemed to think so, too. "Strokes, what have you gotten yourself into?"

"So, where are we headed?" Majem asked as he walked alongside Ryo.

Quickly noticing being left behind, Silver dashed after the group. Walking beside Majem and Ryo. He was holding some old debris from the ruined apartment, and quickly stowed it in his saddle-bags for later examination. Trying his best to remain inconspicuous during their not-so-slow walk out of the main streets of Canterlot, Silver just hummed to himself, wishing he had a chance to pick up some watermelon seeds before being caught up in another mess of some sort. 
When Majem and Ryo began to talk, Silver quietly listened, eager to hear what they knew.

"No idea, but away from here should be a start, then you can start explaining what's going on because all of this seems more than a simple investigation, that ponies reaction was way to exaggerated  for such a simple thing, heh and I thought today was going to be dull"

"Anything but dull, it seems. And we may get another companion." He said and Morning's card levitated out of Majem's saddlebag.
"That mare who distracted the captain gave it to me. I believe she'd like to known more, too."

Majem was a little nervous and kept looking back as they walked away from the scene. "The royal guard is looking for us now. Great."

"Doesn't matter if he's looking for us. Unlikely he'd find us either. And if he does, we can just get ourselves wedged in the middle of time and space at a place he will never find us," Shofter said to no one in particular.

"...Yeah, what she said."

"exactly, all we have to do is ignore them, I've been avoiding fools like that for years, interesting trick, there kind of forgetful of faces in crowds heck he probably doenst even remember what we all look like"

"Except that I'm a talking light green parakeet. I'd probably need to hide when he comes along," Falliver said.

((Ok I was not aware of that... note to self remember to check sign ups))

"Well do you really think they would arrest a animal, or even think to look for one, besides I don't think the guard paid much attention to you two, because you were bickering to yourselves"

"Riight... I guess so. But, really, what was that burnt building about?"

"Haven't a clue, that what's going to make this interesting, all I'm aware of is that something didn't feel right about that whole situations and out of two sides this seemed the better option apart from that no idea I only just got back to Canterlot today after spending time in another town"

"Do you know what caused the fire?" Shofter asked.

"Again no idea, but I have a hunch they don't know ether since there investigating to the point of arresting citizens, I could also presume that whatever news may appear might have a fair bit of doubt if they want it covered up, the Mare who shouted earlier seemed to know more though, and he mentioned Strokes so I can assume your referring to that writer so many unanswered questions, let the games begin"

"Yeah, let's see just what happened!" Falliver said excitedly. Shofter just stayed quiet.

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 22, 17:12:34
The aristocrat thought quickly.  "Je comprends, Madame.  It may be of great interest to us indeed.  And I would be....

"Ah, problème, monsieur.  The group did not seem much encouraged to meet authority. But we shall do our best, with promise of your best, Monsieur Fantaisie." She bowed again and backed away into the shadows.

  Immediately after-wards an enthusiastic, gray, earth stallion came dashing into Fancy's chambers. His clothing marked him as one of the archivists even so, a few of Fancy's guards were on his tail, wide eyed with surprise and fear. Closing their halberds in-front of him when he stopped, they shouted to Fancy for instructions, already pushing the archivist out of the room.

  The desperate pony waved a piece of paper in the air, trying to show the scripture recorded on it? Or just using it to draw Fancy's attention? He yelled: "Sir! Look what I've found! I was given permission to snoop in the royal archives, I think I've found something concrete!" He tried to break free of the guards, a futile attempt and was pushed further OUT of the room. 

  "SIR! LOOK!"

  * * *

 

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 22, 21:07:34
Behind the captain, Morning Glory winced. She had hoped to distract him from noticing the others. . .

"Ahh." The captain grinned at the attention Morning was ladling on him. His eyes remained cold except for a faint sparkle but it was much like the refraction of a diamond, pretty but it couldn't warm hot butter. "Azalea, eh? What a pretty name. All-right sweet, lead me to this Green Strokes. I'll remember you when I get my promotion, you can be sure of that." His tone was doused in hidden humor, a sarcasm he seemed unable to restrain and the instant he had heard she was a gardener a cock-sure grin hadn't left his face.

"But don't keep me waiting, this Green Strokes is slippery, we have to move now!" He gave her a gentle shove. "Let's make time and pick up the speed."

Falliver and Ryo managed to get Majem to calm down, even if they weren't talking to him directly.
"So we're looking for somepony not even the guards are able to find. Any ideas on where to start?"

"Well, I think we should go to the site of crime and look for clues. Either that or we can wander around aimlessly," Shofter said.

Morning Glory picked up the pace, breaking into a trot as she led him around the corner and out of sight of the burned apartment. She took him on a zig-zagging path through the blocks and blocks of the lower-class residential area. Finally they reached an intersection and she came to a stop.

"I was here, Officer." She stood on the street corner, near the crosswalk. "I saw him over there." She pointed with a hoof, across the street, where an awning left a shadow on the sidewalk. "He looked like no good. He was sneaking along. Wearing a cloak. He looked suspicious, so I watched him. But he saw me looking." She gave a convincing gulp and shuddered nervously.

While she talked, she fished in her bag, horn glowing. She produced a mirror, and bunched behind it was her slipper. While she paused under the pretext of examining her appearance, she waited for the guard to look away. The instant his eyes were averted, she magically tossed the shoe into the alley behind her as quickly and quietly as possible. Once she was certain it was secure, she hefted the mirror and gazed into it with a gasp. "Oh, I look such a mess!" She sighed and put it away.

Morning Glory continued to weave her tale. "He ran at me! Strait across the street, and pushed me back there." She turned to face the alley behind them. She shuffled on her hooves for a moment, then walked into the alley. "He grabbed me and shoved me against the wall. Told me to forget I saw him. Told me to tell no one." Her voice had become a whisper, and she bit her tongue to coax tears into her eyes once more. 

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 24, 20:17:07
Morning Glory picked up the pace, breaking into a trot as she led him around the corner and out of sight of the burned apartment. . . .

  "How . . . terrible." The captain muttered as he observed the street. "Well mam, I'd be hard pressed to see anything of interest, NOW. Did anypony see this altercation, could anypony have spotted where he might of run off to?" Placing his slanting eyes on Morning, he prowled closer. "Where is he?"

  Then his hoof came into contact with a loose object and he lost his balance, stumbling against the alley wall he turned furiously to the culprit, a loose shoe. "A shoe? Is this yours Azalea? " His eyes glanced over the scene of the 'crime' then his hoof went up to his right shoulder, and his eyes narrowed again. "This place is filthy, my clothes won't ever truly be clean from this soot . . . The places criminals roost . . ." He caught Morning's eye. "Azalea, where did Strokes run off to? I must find him!"

  The alley was disgustingly filthy, the residue of years of city smog made itself tangible and solid on those walls. Thick with black soot, so thick a pony place its their face against the wall, come off completely black but wouldn't leave an impression on the wall.

"no offence but do you really think going back now after we just walked off is the best idea, *sigh* I'm going to regret this but there a library nearby we could go there and discuss, I'm sure they lend me the research room for a short while"rch room for a short while"

Morning Glory reached out and took the slipper. "Yes, thank you." She lifted her hoof and pulled the slipper back on. She then gazed around the alley, wishing she had chosen a cleaner location. It was authentic, if nothing else.

She turned and looked out to the street. "We were alone on the street. It made me very nervous. But I suppose he couldn't have come for me if somepony could have seen him do it." She craned her head back to stare at the brick walls of the two towering buildings that stood on either side of the alley. "I did yell. Maybe someone up there heard and saw him run off." She carefully counted the windows. At least 20. If he were to interview all of them, it would take him well into the evening.

Turning back to the captain, she hunched her shoulders. "I'm sorry sir. I didn't see where he went. He turned left out of here, but that's all I know. I was so...frightened." She clutched at his foreleg again. "Oh I so want to help you catch him! Will you be able to get him, dear Captain?"

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 24, 21:10:02
"no offence but do you really think going back now after we just walked off is the best idea, *sigh* I'm going to regret this but there a library nearby we could go there and discuss, I'm sure they lend me the research room for a short while"

"Sounds good to me. Though I'm not sure that it'd have anything of use for a recent event like this," Shofter said frankly.

"Its a place to talk, in private as well, I just hope I can call in a favour but, you may have to go with a story I'm going to tell, alright, as for information, they may have a newpaper of recent events which if we correlate events and odd news there might be something"Ryo smiles
"the string of a web is strong enough to hold its foundation and connect the rest"

"Alright... So where's the library?"

((that a very good question ))
It should just be down the street a bit not too far from here it's on Horseshoe Avenue  

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 24, 21:11:24
Morning Glory reached out and took the slipper. "Yes, thank you." She lifted her hoof and pulled the slipper back on . . .

"No miss, I don't expect I will." He smiled his cold smile down at her but his fury was very plain. "Will you come back with me, I'd like to make this report official. As I need to inform the FBI on this . . . tip, it would be convenient if you came with me." There was a hint of warning in his voice.

  The captain pulled Morning to her hooves, gently, carefully. "The commissioner will be very interested in hearing your situation and although I could relate your story it wouldn't have the . . . emotion, the fullness you could give it. Living through the event gives it a whole new dimension in telling. Shall we  miss?" The captain pulled Morning's hoof through his leg and began leading her away.

  The captain smiled, patting Morning's small hoof. "We'll get all this cleared up quickly, I promise." The words were just words, a talisman he held in reserve to calm down ponies, there was no feeling in those words and his cold smile would of dispelled any heart-felt wishes, if they had existed.

Morning Glory found herself pulled gently but firmly along. She paused, doing her best to read his face without giving anything away on her own. "You won't? Wha-err, yes, of course, Officer." She hesitantly followed, looking grim. Morning Glory was starting to think those onlookers were less and less worth all the effort. She had the feeling things were beginning to unravel. But maybe she could snag some info on Strokes while she was here...

"The FBI? Please, tell me officer. Is the Green stallion really that dangerous? Is he really at traitor? He...he won't come looking for me, will he?" She simpered and clutched his hoof as they walked together.

Meanwhile her mind whirred, inventing a way to escape. She knew if she went through intake at the Bureau that her identity would be revealed. And then she would have some serious explaining to do. She needed to slip away before they reached the precinct.

 The captain's false smile disolved completely, a sneer and bad attentions typed plainly across his face. "You can stop with the play-acting, miss. You know as well as I you never encountered Strokes, at least not here. Of course this means you probably have had interactions with him, previously."

  He scoffed at her suprize. "I was skeptical, miss, but I wasn't sure you were lieing until we got here." He looked pointedly at her back. "Your 'torn' clothes are unbelieavably clean there, miss. I think we both know any kind of contact with those alley walls would have soiled them and if it was as 'agressive' as you say your clothes would be entirely black. Of course the whole story about Strokes being aggresive is fishy, at least we were told the pony wasn't agressive and you'd think the Sisters would of informed us about him being agressive." He put his 'smile' forth again. "Seeing as we would be dealing with him and if he really is public enemy number 1, you'd think they would WANT us to catch him."

  He patted Morning's hoof again. "Ahh, it's just too bad we've missed capturing your friends . . . but don't you fret my dear, with you at headquarters I'm sure they'll be pleased to share some information to get you back." He chuckled. "We'll get it all cleared up, soon enough." Making sure her hoof was secure he pulled her along, a little less gentily.
 

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 24, 21:31:05
((that a very good question ))
It should just be down the street a bit not too far from here it's on Horseshoe Avenue

"Great! Let's go there then!" Falliver said with a smile.

Morning Glory's eyes bulged, and her breath quickened. Her lip trembled, before she plonked down on her rump and started to bawl. "I-I'm sorry! I'm not a criminal!" She sobbed and sobbed, and much less attractively so. Snot bubbled out of her nose as she wailed, her eyes turning red and her make up becoming overwhelmed by all the wetness.

Reaching into her bag, she pulled out her entire coin pouch. It bulged with heavy gold bits. Far more than any common pony carried. "He paid me to lead you away! He said to take you away from the purple mare...I-I didn't mean to cause any harm. I just needed the money!" She tossed it to the ground and gleaming coins spilled out the top. "I haven't paid rent in months, and my landlord is going to kick me out on the street! Oh Celestia! What have I done!"

She grabbed for his hooves, groveling before him. "Please don't arrest me!" She paused and her eyes lit up. "Please! I'll tell you where the brown stallion went! I know where he was heading! He must be important!" Her eyes looked wild and desperate. "Just don't arrest me, please! I can't go to jail!" She gasped for breath and wept into her now damp handkerchief.

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 24, 23:00:19
Morning Glory's eyes bulged, and her breath quickened. Her lip trembled, before she plonked down on her rump and started to bawl. . . .

The captain recoiled, his eyes caught on the sack of golden bits. "Dear Celestia, girl! Couldn't you have considered what you were doing would get you in serious trouble? I mean the sheer amount of coins he offered you . . ." He looked at her shaking his head. "You know I have to confiscate this, don't you? All you've earned yourself is a reprimand and eyes, because miss I can't accept just your word of this, the FBI must watch you for future interaction with Strokes."

  After a moment the captain's eye's softened. "If you could guide me to Right-Hoof though . . .  THAT would earn you some respect in the eyes of the government. I wouldn't need to arrest you, but one way or another miss, you'll need to come to the Headquarters." Finally a tone of sympathy and reassurance creeped into his speech. "Not to arrest you, miss. But we DO need to sort out your whole story, you'll be out by the end of the day." He nodded compassionately. "After we retrieve Right-Hoof of course, the brown stallion."

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 24, 02:39:01

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 22, 17:12:34
The aristocrat thought quickly.  "Je comprends, Madame.  It may be of great interest to us indeed.  And I would be....

"Ah, problème, monsieur.  The group did not seem much encouraged to meet authority. But we shall do our best, with promise of your best, Monsieur Fantaisie." She bowed again and backed away into the shadows.

  Immediately after-wards an enthusiastic, gray, earth stallion came dashing into Fancy's chambers. His clothing marked him as one of the archivists even so, a few of Fancy's guards were on his tail, wide eyed with surprise and fear. Closing their halberds in-front of him when he stopped, they shouted to Fancy for instructions, already pushing the archivist out of the room.

  The desperate pony waved a piece of paper in the air, trying to show the scripture recorded on it? Or just using it to draw Fancy's attention? He yelled: "Sir! Look what I've found! I was given permission to snoop in the royal archives, I think I've found something concrete!" He tried to break free of the guards, a futile attempt and was pushed further OUT of the room. 

  "SIR! LOOK!"

Fancy did not have the slightest bit of worry on his face.  "Bloodblade, if you please..."

The butler bowed.  "Master's wish is Master's Servant's command."

The surprisingly swift pegasus was suddenly no longer in sight, and before the archivist quite knew what was happening he found his hooves empty and several anti-magic barriers in place.  It was the last thing he remembered, in any case, as he fell softly to the floor, mind and ideas intact but unconscious from a precision strike to a critical nerve center.  He would feel no discomfort upon waking, but if he held any ill intent, he would be incapacitated for the next hour or so.

The aristocrat continued looking passively at his map of conspiracies as maids and servants, as well as replacement archivists, came forward from the shadows and side doors to review the paper, and his butler reappeared at his side.

Morning Glory blinked and snatched for the purse before he lifted it out of her reach, but missed and gave a disgruntled huff. She looked up and sighed, then got to her feet, scuffing her hoof along the ground.

"Well, I don't know exactly where he was going." Her ears flattened as she looked up sheepishly. "He said I could get the rest of the payment outside the city. Off Cherrybranch street, there's a crooked tree, and the rest of my money is supposed to be there. So, he has to go there sometime, right?" She looked nervous. She had to be sure she didn't make it to the Headquarters.

"Can't I just give you my name and address? I need to get home." Her horn glowed as she pulled a quill and paper out of her bag. Under the pretext of using her levitation spell, she prepared a teleport, as the glow on her horn was already accounted for. She just hoped she could run fast enough. But she had noticed he seemed to have chronic injury, favoring his shoulder. Maybe, just maybe...

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 24, 23:55:19
Morning Glory blinked and snatched for the purse before he lifted it out of her reach, but missed and gave a disgruntled huff. . .

  The captain watched, amused by her attempt to retrieve her 'illicit' bits. He carefully stowed the bag away in his armor. After a moment or two he removed his helm to rub his fore-head.

"No miss, you will keep close to me until we have cleared you of any and all acts of treason. Then and only then will you be free to return home. We head to the Administrator of Operations, Madame Malberry. She has ordered any and all connections with Strokes brought before her personally." He didn't seem enthralled about this circumstance, indeed worry could be discerned behind those neutral eyes.

"We'll organize the thing quickly, I'll be sure to help pass it through. No need for you to be detained longer than necessary . .. " His voice held no malice, no sarcasm no laughter. He meant what he said and even nodded solumly, but he quikly recovered with his next sentence: "Then you can tell them 'exactly' where this payment is."

Morning Glory's eyes lifted to meet his, her green feather quill, ink, and parchment still floating before her. "That's...that's very kind of you sir. I'm, I'm humbled, that you would be so kind to me, after I tricked you." She looked genuinely guilty for a moment. "You're a good stallion. An asset to the city." She stepped forward, allure back in her gaze. "And so handsome when you're working." Sweat had begun to build on her brow, the strain of her building magic starting to take it's toll. Morning Glory was not a particularly powerful unicorn.

She glanced to the side, then back at him. "I'm sorry. Really I am." She moved to tenderly brush his foreleg with her own, just for a moment.

Then the feather was unceremoniously jammed up his right nostril. The parchment was rolled up and wedged deep in his left ear. And the bottle of ink upended right over his eyes. Then she released the spell. In a green flash she vanished, appearing 10 feet away.

She broke out into a gallop, ducking behind a corner and running for all she was worth.

Quote from: Morning Glory on 2012 Nov 25, 01:11:26
Morning Glory's eyes lifted to meet his, her green feather quill, ink, and parchment still floating before her. . .

The guard hollered, his eyes rolling in globs of black ink. Instinctively flapping his wings, trying to get away from trouble, then forcing control back over himself and landing clumsily to the ground.  "Get back here! YOU'RE ONLY MAKING IT WORSE FOR YOURSELF!" Finally he called upon the civilians and pedestrians. "Grab her, stop that mare!"

  No-one reacted, those who saw what happened passed on without assisting, and those who weren't present blinked at the guard's words. A few even suspected some kind of play or show was about to begin. But the blood that trickled down the Guard's muzzle proved otherwise. Even with the un-helpful confusion of ten hooves attempting to assist him, the captain eventually removed the quill and parchment.

  "DID anyone see where the mare had gone, the one talking with me? DID ANYONE SEE . . ." But eventually the guard was forced to admit defeat, his eyes were red, blood-shot and he could hardly see in front of him. This had been a sad day for Captain Ress Whitesword. So sad he looked at the bag of bits he had confiscated from the manipulative mare and thought perhaps the best course of action would be in-action. Maybe the guards had caught Bright Mane but the group around the burned building were most certainly gone, at least he had their images in his head.

  He rubbed that head of his, he had played his cards badly, very poorly, now that he looked back on those choices he had made. The group most likely didn't know much, since they showed up at the building . . . but this mare he lost, she was more than a common gardener, that was certain. He sighed and turned the pouch over in his hand. A fine 'S' was embroidered into the delicate Satin cloth, it wasn't much to go on.

  The captain sighed falling against the stone patchwork of the roads; he wouldn't report this mare, he would be in enough trouble as it was. He patted the pouch brimming with gold coins. "A bribe . . . I suppose." He sighed, placing the pouch in his armor. "My morals are slipping. . . ." He chuckled. "Again."

Morning Glory ran for all she was worth. As a noblepony, she didn't do much physical work. She huffed and puffed until she was well out of earshot. Reaching a busy part of the city, she called a cab.

*****

Of course, it was only once they arrived back at the Silver Manor that she remember she had no bits to pay. After tediously explaining to the driver that she lived at the lavish mansion, she ran inside and collected his payment.

*****

Next on her list was a bath. She basked in the warm, soapy water as her personal handmaid ran a comb through her sun-kissed mane, mulling over the day. She initially thought she hadn't learned much at all. But now she knew that Strokes was not just wanted for questioning; he was public enemy number one. The FBI was conducting the investigation. This was no small matter, not in the slightest. The Bureau was desperate for any scrap of information. So, where ever he was, Strokes was well-hidden. But Bright Mane had returned to a hot-spot. Why? She had heard one of the others gathered there mention an ad. Strokes was looking for help?

Whatever he was up to, it was big. Big and dangerous.

She couldn't wait to tell her uncle.

Silver stood in the midst of the other ponies, all plotting and planning where to go and what to do. When some rushed for the library, and others seemed to still be making up their minds, Silver stood there dumbfounded at the entire situation.
Nervously brushing his front-right hoof on the ground, he sat down and began to think the entire thing over. Pulling out his diary, he started to chronicle what he'd learned and seen so far, before hastily stowing it back in his saddle-bags.
Gah! Idiot! What if they were to confiscate any of my belongings? Ugh, what a mess....

He looked about at the group of ponies again, looking for any sign of someone who might actually know what they're doing or where to go. If only he could find that mare who distracted the guard, she obviously knew something, if only he knew where to find her...
With a start, Silver jumped up and trotted next to Majem, being a smaller pony, he stood on his tip-hooves to peer over the other stallion's shoulder.
"Excuse me, but I noticed you picked up that card that the odd mare dropped earlier, you know, the one that distracted the guard captain. Do you mind if I take a look at it?"

((Majem's not exactly a tall one, either.))
"Huh? Oh, sure. Here." Majem said and handed the card over to Silver. "Do you think she knows anything? Either way, the more the merrier." He paused for a moment, then continued. "I'm Majem, by the way. What's your name?"

Carefully taking the card from Majem, he gently stowed it into his saddle-bags to read later. Hoping for some sort of help, it was likely this mare knew more than he did, so it was worth looking into. Noting the other pony speaking to him, he quickly snapped out of his thoughts and responded.

"I'm Silver Flask, but I usually just go by Silver. It's a pleasure to meet you Majem. I live out in the woods outside the city, and came here to do a bit of shopping. Guess I got more than I bargained for. However, I'll say this much; I know a high-class pony when I see one, and this one obviously knows more than we do, I'm quite sure. But then, how could she not, being up there with all those aristocrats, with all their conspiracies and politics...Our best bet is to go speak to her; she seemed an intelligible mare, I'm sure she's outwitted that guard captain by now and gotten back to...wherever this card will point us."

"Maybe she knows something, maybe she doesn't. You're right, though. It's our best bet." He said whilst nodding.
Majem looked over at Ryo and Falliver, then called to them. "Hey, you two. We'll meet you at the library, alright? There's somepony we need to talk to, first."

After letting the others know he and Silver would leave, Majem was ready to talk to Morning. He turned back to Silver and stared at the saddlebag he put the business card in. "Well, then. Where does the noble mare live? I haven't been able to get a good look at it, yet."

Noticing the others still leaving for the library, Silver returned his attention to Majem.

"Ah, yes, I haven't had a chance to look at it either, come to think of it..." Gently and discreetly withdrawing it from his saddle-bags, Silver held the small business card in his hoof where he and Majem could read it:

Lady Morning Glory of the Silver House
Capitol Building 624
Governmental District, Canterlot

"Hmm, I can't say I've been to that section of town before; much more ritzy and glamorous than areas I'm familiar with...The capitol building at that too. This mare is obviously more important than I thought..."

Starting to walk in the general direction of the governmental district, Silver donned his travelling cloak. After the latest incidents, being recognized would be....disadvantageous.

Majem was a little confused about Silver putting on a cloak, then realized what he was doing. Sadly, he had no clothing with him to hide himself, but he knew how to look quite a bit different. Majem's horn glowed for a brief moment; His mane and tail, which were made of water before, were now completely white again. "Ugh, I don't like it like this, but the guard would immediately recognize me like that."

With his 'camouflage' on, Majem followed Silver. "Governmental District, was it? Ugh, I don't exactly feel like walking all the way. Mind calling for a cab? I'll pay, of course."

Noting Majem's transformation, Silver raised an eyebrow.

"An impressive transformation, to keep your tail and mane constantly in the form of water, consistently having a flow of magic like that. As for a cab, I'd be fine with it. And we can share the fare; no reason to pay for my part. With any luck, the word hasn't gotten around about any of us yet, and we'll have no trouble with the cabby, or anyone else, on our way there."

Hailing a cab, Silver looked around quickly from under the hood of his cloak. Luckily, the hood shadowed his face and kept anypony from beign able to notice his wandering eyes at a glance. As Majem and Silver climbed into the buggy, he calmly asked the driver to take them to the governmental district, and they were off down the paved roads of Canterlot in no time, heading for the governmental district.

((I'll be back later this evening; my brother needs to use the computer for a bit, so sorry if I'm a little slow with any responses... X3))

(I'll jump forward so she can meet Silver and Majem)

Bathed and dressed for the third time that day, Morning Glory sat in her office once more, now back in her fine clothing. Her hair had been restored, now expertly curled and styled, tied up in a satin ribbon. A quill feverishly scratched at the parchment before her on her desk as she composed a report to her uncle in an odd silvery ink that vanished from the page after a few moments. On her desk sat several old copies of various newspapers she had collected from the archives, clippings littering the floor. A large folder was laid out, with all the information she had been able to gather on Strokes and his companions.

Her curtains drawn and her door firmly shut, she worked away, organizing her knowledge. She had also been sure to lock the door to the antechamber, not wanting to be disturbed without warning. Sterling had left for a round of golf with Lord Fancy Pants several hours ago, and since he hadn't returned, she presumed they had gone for drinks and she would meet him at home. Of all the aristocrats in Canterlot, Fancy was one of the few Morning Glory admired. She knew her uncle enjoyed his time with his good friend, but she also knew they would be collaborating, discussing what each knew about Strokes. Fancy Pants often knew all there was to know when it came to gossip, but it seemed like this story had been hushed up.

In the corner of her office, a large ornate cage took up a considerable area. It's occupant, a medium-sized green parrot, was busily chewing apart a large slice of pineapple. He chirped and peeped from time to time as he ate, clearly enjoying his meal.

((Hope you don't mind me skipping the cabby ride, Chirp. I can change my post if needed.  X3))

After a short time, Majem and Silver's cabby arrived at their destination. Silver reached into his pouch of bits to tip the cabby as they got out, and gave some to their driver. As he exited the buggy, Silver's jaw dropped at the stately place before them.
I knew it would be a little fancy or high-class, but this is ridiculous...
Nearly tripping onto the sidewalk from his staring, Silver blinked, wide-eyed, barely able to take the place in.

"Well..." He looked to Majem, as they both stood in front of the place, "...Here goes nothing I suppose..."

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 24, 23:42:59
Fancy did not have the slightest bit of worry on his face.  "Bloodblade, if you please..."

"Sir . . . This paper . . ." One of the more daring archivists, exclaimed. "By Celes . . . by Alrondy Semsit. It's a historical account from a general some 500 years ago. Here is the first hard proof that  these disappearances might be intentional." He waved his hooves. "Of course the sheer number suggests it cannot be coincidence but this . . . this pushes it even closer towards intentional kidnap!"

  With that, he began reading. " 'In the year 42 of the rising Sun; 1342 of the Equestrian Calender; I General Gladys Bright-mane set out to quell the rebelling city of Trottingshire, going forth with her eminence's wishes and hopes that bloodshed would be unnecessary. Upon arriving at the aforementioned city, my battalion and I were shocked to find the civilians willing, no, eager to return to the fold. Their 'messiah' and rebel leader - his name being stricken from all records to quell martyrdom - had disappeared a few days previous and recently returned a disillusioned pony. He gave a poor speech, in which he claimed the might of Equestria was necessary to protect it's citizens and they were in the wrong. What was more demotivating they did not say: His sudden change of attitude or the quality of his speech.

   Still, this series of events provoked great interest in me and I set out to at least meet this un-named messiah. He was . . . not charismatic, as I would of suspected, in-fact he was quite reclusive, as if his attempt to remove the city from Equestrian control shamed him. Or so I thought . . . until I realized this couldn't of been the Messiah the people gathered about. His will was broken, he wasn't just disillusioned. Something had happened to this pony and I got to searching out what could of befallen him. . . When I sent my report in for her Majesty's approval, I was asked to return to my station, immediately. The reason of the traitors surrender, was not necessary to comprehend.

   I returned to that site several times, in a completely unprofessional context, to discover what I could. Somehow her Endless Brightness discovered my interest and I was summoned to her throne-room. Here I learned my mistake, I still do not know what happened to the rebel's leader and now I could not care. After entering that room and finding not a single other soul, save her unbounded graciousness and spotting the seriousness upon her royal brow; I knew to desist my investigation then and there. She spoke to me softly and told me analogies of hard choices 'for the good of the empire' then she asked me if I wished to know what happened to the messiah. I had sense enough to reply 'no' and now I finish my biography with this epitaph and warning: Do not search out the answer behind these disappearances, yes disappearances, when my eyes were opened to this one instance I was able to spot more, few enough in number and rare enough in occurrence to slide under the general populace's grasp. But I say it still, leave it be' - Excerpt from 'His Majesty's servant, Gladys Bright-mane."

  The historian looked up at Fancy Pants. "What . . ." But that was all he could say, his voice had choked up on him.

* * *


  Twilight was falling on Canterlot, the soft shadows of dusk brushing across those gathered houses, less than an hour of sunlight was left but the hustle of the city hadn't died down. It's artificial lights blazing brightly along narrow alleyways and the open streets, for some this was the beginning of their day but for quite a few it was the end of their work-shifts.


  The 7th Year of the return of the moon; The 7th day of the 9th moon. Year 1874 of the Equestrian Empire.

Feather yawned, looking at the clock, then rapped a hoof on his desk.  "All right, everypony, we're done for the day.  We'll be working on the same thing day after tomorrow at the same place and time.  Rest up, and make sure to finish your assigned calculations.  Beaker, if you could get the lights as you leave, that'd be great.  Good night, everypony."

The interns gave their own farewells to each other and began packing up, carefully transplanting copies of the chalkboard data and equations to their own papers.  Within about half an hour, the unicorn was hailing his usual cab again, and well on his way to the station.

Apparently there was some sort of incident with the guards, again.  Feather was surprised and a bit amused at the idea of some raggedy mare or another outwitting a captain, and thought nothing of the cabby's mention of some sort of conspiracy.  He'd read more than enough about such things in the tabloids the other day.

When he boarded the night train to Ponyville, he failed to notice the increased security, only focused on getting back home as quickly as possible.  The trip was uneventful, besides some elderly gentlecolt or another fainting several carriages behind.

As the train pulled into Ponyville Station, Feather rapidly exited the vehicle and embraced his waiting wife.

"Juni!  Glad to see you."

"Welcome back, Feather.  Job all right?"

"Better than ever!  We got a new contract with the company, a good one."

"That's wonderful!  Now maybe you can finally start working on those other things you'd been planning."

"Maybe, maybe!"

"Always enthusiastic as ever!  You want me to carry your briefcase?  It looks heavy."

"Thanks, Juni."

"No problem!  Want to start walking?  We can chat along the way."

"Of course."

And they did.  Perhaps it would be redundant to note that their evening was peaceful and wonderful, the quiet, everyday evening of an average couple, blissfully or willfully unaware of the storm that, even now, was raging all around them.

*****

The aristocrat furrowed his brow gravely.  "Curious, very, very curious.  Then it is indeed as Strokes predicted.  This... Princess Conspiracy... with so many records and now actual evidence, can no longer be denied, if these records are to be believed.  But..."

His face grew determined.  "I will not be cowed like a foal.  Neither will I be reckless like one.  From now on, we move with even more caution, but ever onwards.  But if things are indeed so deeply entwined in the very fabric of Equestria itself..."

In his thoughts, Fancy happened to glance at his schedule for a moment.  Though his gaze passed it by for a moment, it quickly doubled back, and the pony groaned, facehoofing.

"Speaking of forgetfulness!  How could I have forgotten my golfing session with Stirling!  Inkblock, would you please write a formal apology to my good friend?  'My dearest friend and companion Lord Stirling Silver, I must apologize profusely for having forgotten our afternoon appointment at the golf club!  Strange activities have kept me so involved that I must have completely forgotten, and it is truly my own fault.  I beg forgiveness, and have attached several gifts as an apology.  I will try to speak with you face-to-face post-haste!  Eternally in your debt, your humble servant, Fancy Pants.  There you go, fancy it up a bit and be sure to attatch some fine present or another, perhaps another hundred thousand bonds or stocks in that canning company we bought up last year."

Saying that made him think of another thing he had been forgetting, and he hacehoofed again.  "And tell Goldwater to buy up those bankrupt weapons and armor companies if there's any stock left, buy everything you can and get somepony to raise them back on their hooves, there's a tidy bit of profit to be turned there.  How could I have been so forgetful today..."

The servant bowed.  "Master's servant has already purchased the companies the day they filed for bankruptcy."

Fancy rubbed his tired eyes and temples.  "Ah yes.  I really do need to get some sleep, don't I?  It simply wouldn't do to have me like this, not with the current situation."

He looked at the clock and sighed.  "One more hour, I think.  Then I'm off to bed."

Quote from: Link on 2012 Nov 25, 17:48:27
"Well..." He looked to Majem, as they both stood in front of the place, "...Here goes nothing I suppose..."

Majem giggled a little at Silver for being so impressed. "Watch that jaw of yours. That's not a good first impression." He said and chuckled again.
He stared at the building in front of him. Less impressed, he let out a sigh. "It is pretty impressive. Come on, it's time we meet The Mysterious Mare Do Well."

Silver began to walk up to the front door, he and Majem ever falling deeper under the shadow of the building, ever extending from the setting sun. As they reached the doorstep, Silver cautiously knocked on the fine doors, almost wincing with each quiet tap.
"I really hope we're not interrupting their dinner or something like that...We have to make a good impression to the butler before he'll even listen to us. If there is a butler anyway..."
He paused for a moment, brushing his hoof on the ground, patiently awaiting the door to be answered, and glancing down the streets, noting the shops and businesses all closing up for the night, before looking back up to the house, once again awaiting a greeting of some sort.
"Well, at least we have this..." Silver gently flicked up the business card, "It's probably the ticket we'll need to even see this mare."

Majem looked over at the card Silver flicked up, and smiled. "Yes, that should work. And in case it doesn't, I still have MY card." He smirked at those words, but quickly returned to his usual poker face, before anypony would open the door.

Looking through a nearby window after waiting for some time, Silver's eyes widened as he brushed his hoof on the ground again.

"Uhm...Majem?" He quietly started, keeping his eyes low, "I think I've just discovered what's taking them; I was knocking at the offices' front door..."
Mentally face-hoofing himself, Silver pushed open the door and walked down the carpeted hallway, looking for number 624. As they walked, Silver tried to keep his gaze from Majem, and his ears hung down ashamedly. It didn't take long for Silver to spot the correct office down the hall, and walked up to prepare to knock on the right door this time.

Majem facehoofed at those words and blushed a bit in embarrassment. "That just had to happen, didn't it?" He muttered to himself as he followed Silver inside. He was too distracted by the hallway to notice Silver's ears. In his mind, Majem was having a great time playing in here.

Without paying attention where he was going, Majem bumped into Silver when Silver stopped in front of the door. "Sorry." He said and looked around at anything but Silver. "Focus, mate." Majem thought and gently slapped himself on the cheeks.
((You're such a silly kid, Majem.))

(Scene: Majem and Link)

  A weary eye followed the two ponies up to the capitol building . . . then they knocked. This might of startled a normal pony, or most any-pony but this pony, wearing a white 'fur' coat continued to stare on with slightly squinting eyes. His actual coat being of the darkest black and hair of golden locks, singled him out among the crowd. Such contradiction on a pony was not only eye-catching but startling. His blood-shot eyes and unshaven face gave the impression of a homeless man in stolen finery or perhaps a pony suffering from some mental condition. And his face was wrinkled in premature age, though he couldn't of been more than 30 his appearance would suggest he was ten years older.

  As Majem and Link blushed and pushed inside the building, the pony took a tentative step towards the street. A speeding cart pushed past in a hurry and dazzled the pony, forcing him to stumble back a few steps. He tried again, this time making it across the street successfully, he leaned against the building and watching through the windows made himself ready for a long wait.

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 25, 22:59:23
The aristocrat furrowed his brow gravely. ..

Not two minutes after Fancy laid himself down several guards, Blood Blade among them, pushed into his private chambers. " Master, several royal guards are here, they must speak with you urgently. Their uniforms and medals check out, these are guards straight from The Sisters, themselves!" Blood Blade bid the way with his neutral expression, a skill he had LONG past mastered, a virtue for a noble's servant, a necessity for Fancy Pants' butler.

  Fancy had a moment or two to view the guards before they noticed his presence. They were not informative moments, the guards' faces were as neutral as Blood Blades'. The ranks were easy enough to determine, 12 guards in total: Front and center stood the Second Captain of the Guard, a pony whose father Fancy had known well, a pony Fancy had seen grow into the strapping mare she was today, Captain Grace Heart. She was the first to catch Fancy's presence and she did not smile at him, as she was quick to do if waving down from the watch or passing him on a street corner. Instead silent pools sat in her head and that expression of professional detachment sat stalwart, as fancy descended the stairs.

   The rest of the guard were plain enough, faces he might of remembered if he cared to, he recognized 'the twins', as they were called around the barracks. A pair of stallions that never left each others side. There were others as well but Fancy could tell there was no particular motive behind this grouping of guards, they were randomly selected recruits sent for some purpose . . .

  Captain Heart saluted. "Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, Master of the Pants Estate, Keeper of the Triple Crown; you have been summoned before the everlasting sisters. I've been told to give you this . . . " Heart put a scroll into Fancy's hooves, she held it delicately and almost seemed loathe to part with it but she released the parchment after a momentary pause. It was simply a 'summons' dictating that Fancy was to be directed to the private chambers of the palace, an honour bestowed on very few. "We are to leave immediately, your lordship will have to pardon the unusual haste but these are obviously not usual circumstances. I've been told to inform you: 'You may bring one servant, but he or she will not be allowed within the inner sanctuary of the sisters this pony will be required to  wait in the outer hall.'" Captain Heart's emotion broke through her professionalism for one sliver of a second, something like fear was behind those eyes and maybe even a little pride. But it was gone as soon as it appeared and who is to say if it was really there at all?

  So, the Captain led Fancy and his loyal servant away from his mansion, his fortress and into the dank night, the crowd of guards gathering around pushing forward to the ever visible palace. It was a silent night, few noises were heard, fewer ponies could be seen. But the passage was smooth enough and they arrived without incident, the guard troop saw them inside and to the outer sanctuary, then all departed save for Captain Grace Heart.

  "I'm to see you the rest of the way, your grace. At least till we reach the inner sanctuary, then the servants will guide you from there. As you know . . . hardly any-pony is allowed within the inner sanctuary." She kept her face purposefully turned away from his. "Your servant will have to wait here. I'm sure the sisters will provide food and drink."

  And she moved on without turning back for confirmation. They passed through hallways of unparalleled marvel, sparkling glory open to the public for payed tours. Glistening, opalescent liquid spewed from a marvelous white-marble fountain, eternal daylight coaxed the liquid to the height of it's glorious refracting abilities. A dome of glass sat high above, 100 ponies on each others back might reach the glass, here the eternal light showered down upon the two lone ponies. It seemed to show the outside world but that was impossible, the sun sat contently in the center of the sky.

  The size of the fountain was . . . gargantuan, made to seem small by the empty space about it. They passed along the open hall-way, pillars the width of Fancy blocking the sheer 'space' of the area, giving the room depth and markers to show how far one had gone. These pillars were crafted with such mastery . . . small depictions of ponies etched into the base and bare black marble extending into the rafters. Rafters adorned with murals of past battles and the peace pony-kind has more or less experienced through its many years.

  Finally, they came through to the other end, the 'Walk of Devotion' was this hallway's name, the passageway into the Sister's private Sanctuary was adorned with portraits of the Sisters throughout the ages. Billions of artists had thrown their craft, hearts, blood and love into portraits for the sisters but only a hundred were displayed here. Some murals, some portraits but all breathtakingly beautiful. The same soft, eternal light lite the portraits and the hallway.  All this Fancy had seen before but he was less familiar with the Walk of Devotion, the portraits still took his breath away, the best artists had their work preserved forever here . . . it was a place of history and culture.

  Captain Heart sighed. "And here we are lord Fancy, I leave you to the sisters." Saluting once more, Captain Grace Heart marched, back the way she came.

  Fancy stood before a large stairway, at least twenty ponies, standing side-by-side could walk up these steps, together. And it seemed two ponies were headed down to meet him. Two silver haired fillies, neither of which could have been over the age of thirteen, trotted shyly up to Fancy. "Fancy, sir . . . you are Fancy Pants, yes?" They pushed him up the stairs, all anxiousness and excitement. "The princess are waiting for you!" Then the other chimed in. "Yes! Waiting for you in the reprieve room, Madame Platinum is already here! You must hurry Mr. Pants. They are waiting on you, youuu!" She made a face of mock impatience and then smiled sweetly. Both giggled and pushed Fancy through two doors, made of day-light and Moon-light, or that is what the material looked like to Fancy, if light could be opaque and solid. A delicate white moon was carved into the Moon-light and a blazing sun upon the other.

  And then it was as if he passed into another building, the furniture was still fine, high quality, but it wasn't overly unnecessary or uncomfortably gaudy. This was a residence, a larger than normal residence but a home for ponies. The two fillies pulled Fancy into a small antechamber and backed out giggling at one-another.

  It was a small, comfortable room but before Fancy had a chance to decide on whether he should wait or pass through to the next room, the door opened and Luna passed in, stopping to put the book she had away, she smiled sadly at Fancy. "Step forward and enter, Sir Fancy. We do have much to discuss." Luna stepped  away from the door and beckoned him to enter.

  Inside was a large circular and wooden table, old beyond reckoning and scuffed upon every surface but polished to shine with constant use. Celestia sat opposite the door, bent over papers and maps, and looking a little more than slightly disgruntled. At Fancy's hoof-steps she rose her head, gazing at Fancy the way only the Sun Princess could. "Ah, Fancy . . . you are here . . ."   Celestia nodded to a chair. "Sit down Fancy, make yourself comfortable."

  Luna walked around the table, languidly, standing by her sister's side. They summoned up food and drink, a rather sweet smelling bread and some kind of hot drink, it smelled rather like mint. Celestia stood to her full height. "I am sorry to see you get yourself involved in this, Fancy. Because now we'll have to extract promises from you, promises to be sworn before us in oath-binding spells, strong as the world . . .  " But here she had to stop, the door opened again and a decrepit unicorn-mare pushed into the room. Her hair was loose and transparent, one would almost believe it wasn't hair at all but cobwebs. Her face a puckered prune, frozen in scorn and pain. She hobbled into the room, sitting nearer to Fancy than the princess and looking irritably between Fancy and the sisters.

  Luna gave a pitying gaze to the old mare. "Madame Platinum, thou doth return in time."

  "Aye, my princess." Contrary to the pony's ancient appearance her voice was sweet and mellifluous, charming and alluring and at the moment distracting.

  Luna nodded towards her and Celesita moved to speak again but it was Madame Platinum that took the floor "So . . . you are this century's Fancy?" She looked him up and down with unrestrained hatred. "Your family has been very useful to the crown in the past, are you abandoning the principles lain  before you by your ancestors."

  Luna looked surprised. Celestia shouted: "I suggest you refrain from making accusations, Madame Platinum, we haven't ascertained what Fancy's plans are, yet. I doubt he wishes any harm to the Equestrian people."

Madame Platinum looked on, not one inch chastised. "Then I suggest we 'ascertain' this, princess." Molten gold magic erupted from her horn, dragging a shawl out of . . . nowhere and covering herself tightly with it, she leaned into the table as if to ponder. "You see . . . you've shown interest in my plans with your attempt to purchase the weapon smiths. If your servant would of payed more attention, he'd of noticed the shares had already all been bought up. Instead, I almost had to bid against you Fancy and although my wealth is significant, I can't be wasting it trumping yours'."

  The mare looked up at fancy, or at least that was the most likely direction of her gaze, her face was so gnarled and wrinkled, the eyes were almost lost in bags of dry skin. "I'm sure you haven't heard of my family, the Platinums, you haven't heard of us because we are not meant to be heard. We were the original spies for the Sisters, since the founding of Equestria. Rewarded with platinum mines after the war of 86, we quickly became a powerful merchant group . . . Than the day came were it was more convenient for us to slip into shadow, to affect the economy of Equestria from the side-lines, to be the generous beneficiaries of the arts and sciences." Here she might of smiled, something twisted in her old face. "Certain thoughts are dangerous you know."

  Celestia looked on with a hard gaze, breaking in on Platinum's last line. "Fancy, I must ask you to swear to me the oath, or we shall keep the remainder of the sensitive information under wraps . .  ."

   The ancient mare turned her head slowly to Celestia. "You plan . . . on letting him leave? I would hardly call that the wise decisions I'm accustomed to expect from you, Princess."

  Celestia's mane whipped back but she addressed her words to Fancy, not the mare. "Fancy, you cannot be allowed to use your wealth as you are and if you shall not swear your oath, I must warn you . . . I will be freezing your accounts, stocks and interests. Should your business suffer enough, Madame Platinum will be required to purchase your business and take a more active role in the kingdom. But if you are refusing to cooperate the Platinum family must shed their anonymity and take hold of the other quarter of civil-responsibilities.  "

   Another shifting in the mare's face. "An expensive compromise, the other method would be less . . . detrimental to societies' current structure."  Then she turned to Fancy, smiling as if she couldn't help herself from humiliating him. "You do realize he's been attempting to make use of the guild of assassins . . . to locate Strokes? Ahh, I suppose you thought them securely under your hoof, eh, Fancy? I'm sorry to say they've only ever moved if I allow it . . . oh don't worry your pretty young face, Fleur would much rather serve you but we have ties deeper than money Fancy, ties she wouldn't risk breaking." The old mare sighed. "Still, she didn't tell me she had searched for Right-Hoof for you, until after she gave you the information. I stopped her from gathering those 'companions' of yours, though. We are watching and waiting, seeing if they will lead us to Green Strokes."

  Celestia looked insane, her hoof crashed down on the ancient wooden table and took off part of it. "I am TIRED of this balancing game!"  and Luna stepped forward, looking at Fancy with a questioning gaze. "Sir fancy, you have served valiantly in your country's name, we shan't forget your many contributions, nor your valor as guard and soldier. Times now come upon us where we must ask further sacrifices of you, will you take up your princesses' names in reverence once again. Will you swear to forever serve us, in life and death and never stray from the path we deem Equestria must travel? Can you trust in us, once more, Fancy?"

(Do take heed mag, if you swear an oath to the princess you will no longer be able to play Fancy Pants, he will effectively be removed from play, unless you want to use fancy to help 'catch' Strokes. Because he'll be helping do just that, whether he wants to or not :/, after he takes the oath)

"Ah there it is, shame the other two ran off but, I'm sure the will catch up got some questions for them"
Ryo enters the library with the others and walks up to the counter

"Hello there Violet how have you been today, sorry for being so late in, but mind if we use the research room for a tad"

((sorry randomly naming a NPC if you have a difrent name ill edit))

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 27, 08:29:03
"Ah there it is, shame the other two ran off but, I'm sure the will catch up got some questions for them"
Ryo enters the library with the others and walks up to the counter

"Hello there Violet how have you been today, sorry for being so late in, but mind if we use the research room for a tad"

  "Yeah, yeah." Violet looked up. "Oh, Ryo, you know it's the middle of the night, I've been open 4 hours over waiting for you. Listen your 'pals' are in the back. You go do your bloody Celestia-forsaken research." She threw him a key. "Lock up after I leave,  which would be now." The mare got to her chubby hooves and patted Ryo on the back. "Have fun with your black magic." And she was gone.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 27, 06:30:48

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 25, 22:59:23
The aristocrat furrowed his brow gravely. ..

Not two minutes after Fancy laid himself down several guards, Blood Blade among them, pushed into his private chambers. " Master, several royal guards are here, they must speak with you urgently. Their uniforms and medals check out, these are guards straight from The Sisters, themselves!" Blood Blade bid the way with his neutral expression, a skill he had LONG past mastered, a virtue for a noble's servant, a necessity for Fancy Pants' butler.

  Fancy had a moment or two to view the guards before they noticed his presence. They were not informative moments, the guards' faces were as neutral as Blood Blades'. The ranks were easy enough to determine, 12 guards in total: Front and center stood the Second Captain of the Guard, a pony whose father Fancy had known well, a pony Fancy had seen grow into the strapping mare she was today, Captain Grace Heart. She was the first to catch Fancy's presence and she did not smile at him, as she was quick to do if waving down from the watch or passing him on a street corner. Instead silent pools sat in her head and that expression of professional detachment sat stalwart, as fancy descended the stairs.

   The rest of the guard were plain enough, faces he might of remembered if he cared to, he recognized 'the twins', as they were called around the barracks. A pair of stallions that never left each others side. There were others as well but Fancy could tell there was no particular motive behind this grouping of guards, they were randomly selected recruits sent for some purpose . . .

  Captain Heart saluted. "Lord Fancy Pants the Fifth, Master of the Pants Estate, Keeper of the Triple Crown; you have been summoned before the everlasting sisters. I've been told to give you this . . . " Heart put a scroll into Fancy's hooves, she held it delicately and almost seemed loathe to part with it but she released the parchment after a momentary pause. It was simply a 'summons' dictating that Fancy was to be directed to the private chambers of the palace, an honour bestowed on very few. "We are to leave immediately, your lordship will have to pardon the unusual haste but these are obviously not usual circumstances. I've been told to inform you: 'You may bring one servant, but he or she will not be allowed within the inner sanctuary of the sisters this pony will be required to  wait in the outer hall.'" Captain Heart's emotion broke through her professionalism for one sliver of a second, something like fear was behind those eyes and maybe even a little pride. But it was gone as soon as it appeared and who is to say if it was really there at all?

  So, the Captain led Fancy and his loyal servant away from his mansion, his fortress and into the dank night, the crowd of guards gathering around pushing forward to the ever visible palace. It was a silent night, few noises were heard, fewer ponies could be seen. But the passage was smooth enough and they arrived without incident, the guard troop saw them inside and to the outer sanctuary, then all departed save for Captain Grace Heart.

  "I'm to see you the rest of the way, your grace. At least till we reach the inner sanctuary, then the servants will guide you from there. As you know . . . hardly any-pony is allowed within the inner sanctuary." She kept her face purposefully turned away from his. "Your servant will have to wait here. I'm sure the sisters will provide food and drink."

  And she moved on without turning back for confirmation. They passed through hallways of unparalleled marvel, sparkling glory open to the public for payed tours. Glistening, opalescent liquid spewed from a marvelous white-marble fountain, eternal daylight coaxed the liquid to the height of it's glorious refracting abilities. A dome of glass sat high above, 100 ponies on each others back might reach the glass, here the eternal light showered down upon the two lone ponies. It seemed to show the outside world but that was impossible, the sun sat contently in the center of the sky.

  The size of the fountain was . . . gargantuan, made to seem small by the empty space about it. They passed along the open hall-way, pillars the width of Fancy blocking the sheer 'space' of the area, giving the room depth and markers to show how far one had gone. These pillars were crafted with such mastery . . . small depictions of ponies etched into the base and bare black marble extending into the rafters. Rafters adorned with murals of past battles and the peace pony-kind has more or less experienced through its many years.

  Finally, they came through to the other end, the 'Walk of Devotion' was this hallway's name, the passageway into the Sister's private Sanctuary was adorned with portraits of the Sisters throughout the ages. Billions of artists had thrown their craft, hearts, blood and love into portraits for the sisters but only a hundred were displayed here. Some murals, some portraits but all breathtakingly beautiful. The same soft, eternal light lite the portraits and the hallway.  All this Fancy had seen before but he was less familiar with the Walk of Devotion, the portraits still took his breath away, the best artists had their work preserved forever here . . . it was a place of history and culture.

  Captain Heart sighed. "And here we are lord Fancy, I leave you to the sisters." Saluting once more, Captain Grace Heart marched, back the way she came.

  Fancy stood before a large stairway, at least twenty ponies, standing side-by-side could walk up these steps, together. And it seemed two ponies were headed down to meet him. Two silver haired fillies, neither of which could have been over the age of thirteen, trotted shyly up to Fancy. "Fancy, sir . . . you are Fancy Pants, yes?" They pushed him up the stairs, all anxiousness and excitement. "The princess are waiting for you!" Then the other chimed in. "Yes! Waiting for you in the reprieve room, Madame Platinum is already here! You must hurry Mr. Pants. They are waiting on you, youuu!" She made a face of mock impatience and then smiled sweetly. Both giggled and pushed Fancy through two doors, made of day-light and Moon-light, or that is what the material looked like to Fancy, if light could be opaque and solid. A delicate white moon was carved into the Moon-light and a blazing sun upon the other.

  And then it was as if he passed into another building, the furniture was still fine, high quality, but it wasn't overly unnecessary or uncomfortably gaudy. This was a residence, a larger than normal residence but a home for ponies. The two fillies pulled Fancy into a small antechamber and backed out giggling at one-another.

  It was a small, comfortable room but before Fancy had a chance to decide on whether he should wait or pass through to the next room, the door opened and Luna passed in, stopping to put the book she had away, she smiled sadly at Fancy. "Step forward and enter, Sir Fancy. We do have much to discuss." Luna stepped  away from the door and beckoned him to enter.

  Inside was a large circular and wooden table, old beyond reckoning and scuffed upon every surface but polished to shine with constant use. Celestia sat opposite the door, bent over papers and maps, and looking a little more than slightly disgruntled. At Fancy's hoof-steps she rose her head, gazing at Fancy the way only the Sun Princess could. "Ah, Fancy . . . you are here . . ."   Celestia nodded to a chair. "Sit down Fancy, make yourself comfortable."

  Luna walked around the table, languidly, standing by her sister's side. They summoned up food and drink, a rather sweet smelling bread and some kind of hot drink, it smelled rather like mint. Celestia stood to her full height. "I am sorry to see you get yourself involved in this, Fancy. Because now we'll have to extract promises from you, promises to be sworn before us in oath-binding spells, strong as the world . . .  " But here she had to stop, the door opened again and a decrepit unicorn-mare pushed into the room. Her hair was loose and transparent, one would almost believe it wasn't hair at all but cobwebs. Her face a puckered prune, frozen in scorn and pain. She hobbled into the room, sitting nearer to Fancy than the princess and looking irritably between Fancy and the sisters.

  Luna gave a pitying gaze to the old mare. "Madame Platinum, thou doth return in time."

  "Aye, my princess." Contrary to the pony's ancient appearance her voice was sweet and mellifluous, charming and alluring and at the moment distracting.

  Luna nodded towards her and Celesita moved to speak again but it was Madame Platinum that took the floor "So . . . you are this century's Fancy?" She looked him up and down with unrestrained hatred. "Your family has been very useful to the crown in the past, are you abandoning the principles lain  before you by your ancestors."

  Luna looked surprised. Celestia shouted: "I suggest you refrain from making accusations, Madame Platinum, we haven't ascertained what Fancy's plans are, yet. I doubt he wishes any harm to the Equestrian people."

Madame Platinum looked on, not one inch chastised. "Then I suggest we 'ascertain' this, princess." Molten gold magic erupted from her horn, dragging a shawl out of . . . nowhere and covering herself tightly with it, she leaned into the table as if to ponder. "You see . . . you've shown interest in my plans with your attempt to purchase the weapon smiths. If your servant would of payed more attention, he'd of noticed the shares had already all been bought up. Instead, I almost had to bid against you Fancy and although my wealth is significant, I can't be wasting it trumping yours'."

  The mare looked up at fancy, or at least that was the most likely direction of her gaze, her face was so gnarled and wrinkled, the eyes were almost lost in bags of dry skin. "I'm sure you haven't heard of my family, the Platinums, you haven't heard of us because we are not meant to be heard. We were the original spies for the Sisters, since the founding of Equestria. Rewarded with platinum mines after the war of 86, we quickly became a powerful merchant group . . . Than the day came were it was more convenient for us to slip into shadow, to affect the economy of Equestria from the side-lines, to be the generous beneficiaries of the arts and sciences." Here she might of smiled, something twisted in her old face. "Certain thoughts are dangerous you know."

  Celestia looked on with a hard gaze, breaking in on Platinum's last line. "Fancy, I must ask you to swear to me the oath, or we shall keep the remainder of the sensitive information under wraps . .  ."

   The ancient mare turned her head slowly to Celestia. "You plan . . . on letting him leave? I would hardly call that the wise decisions I'm accustomed to expect from you, Princess."

  Celestia's mane whipped back but she addressed her words to Fancy, not the mare. "Fancy, you cannot be allowed to use your wealth as you are and if you shall not swear your oath, I must warn you . . . I will be freezing your accounts, stocks and interests. Should your business suffer enough, Madame Platinum will be required to purchase your business and take a more active role in the kingdom. But if you are refusing to cooperate the Platinum family must shed their anonymity and take hold of the other quarter of civil-responsibilities.  "

   Another shifting in the mare's face. "An expensive compromise, the other method would be less . . . detrimental to societies' current structure."  Then she turned to Fancy, smiling as if she couldn't help herself from humiliating him. "You do realize he's been attempting to make use of the guild of assassins . . . to locate Strokes? Ahh, I suppose you thought them securely under your hoof, eh, Fancy? I'm sorry to say they've only ever moved if I allow it . . . oh don't worry your pretty young face, Fleur would much rather serve you but we have ties deeper than money Fancy, ties she wouldn't risk breaking." The old mare sighed. "Still, she didn't tell me she had searched for Right-Hoof for you, until after she gave you the information. I stopped her from gathering those 'companions' of yours, though. We are watching and waiting, seeing if they will lead us to Green Strokes."

  Celestia looked insane, her hoof crashed down on the ancient wooden table and took off part of it. "I am TIRED of this balancing game!"  and Luna stepped forward, looking at Fancy with a questioning gaze. "Sir fancy, you have served valiantly in your country's name, we shan't forget your many contributions, nor your valor as guard and soldier. Times now come upon us where we must ask further sacrifices of you, will you take up your princesses' names in reverence once again. Will you swear to forever serve us, in life and death and never stray from the path we deem Equestria must travel? Can you trust in us, once more, Fancy?"

(Do take heed mag, if you swear an oath to the princess you will no longer be able to play Fancy Pants, he will effectively be removed from play, unless you want to use fancy to help 'catch' Strokes. Because he'll be helping do just that, whether he wants to or not :/, after he takes the oath)

Fancy looked at the secret leaders of Equestria with a raised eyebrow and a neutral expression.

"Your Majesties and your honor has asked many questions and placed many claims before me in a short period of time, and I shall endeavor to respond to each in chronological order.  Firstly, as to family history, my line has always been loyal to one thing alone- the citizens of Equestria.  Not to any particular law, which changes with the passage of time and the whims of the citizens and rulers, nor to any individual or family, for families always rise and fall with the passage of time.  No, my father, my father's father, and all my ancestors have ever only been loyal to the citizens, ponies or not, of Equestria."

He maintained eye contact with these formidable powers that be, for this was a matter of personal familial pride.  Then his face became more relaed and reasonable.  "Now, in regards to any 'plans', I have only those which pertain to economic benefit and personal safety, as well as the life, liberty and happiness of those I care for.  My attempt to purchase of weapon and armor companies across the nation is but a reflection of good business; there will always be a need for weapons, whether for defense or some other reason, and as these companies were rapidly entering bankruptcy, it was only good business to purchase these companies in the hopes of procuring a profit.  No political motivation was ever a part of my decision, and I apologize if this attempt disrupted any plans Your Majesties or your honor might have had."

His face grew bored.  "As for the Platinums, the only place I have truly heard of your lot is in plays performed every Hearth's Warming Eve, and to be quite frank, I have no interest whatsoever in rivalries or one-upping anypony in terms of power.  My goals are strictly economic.  If you say you are the most powerful mare in all of Equestria, so be it.  I did not and do not plan, and did not and do not expect, to be the most powerful pony in the land.  Nor did I ever believe La Famille to be the most powerful organization of assassins; as they say in business, 'there is always a bigger fish'.  As for my use of her for any sorts of 'espionage', I truly do not know exactly what you mean by that.  I have done nothing which can be considered truly illicit with my information gathering.  Rumors and sightings are a norm of high society, as I am quite sure Your Majesties and your honor are aware, and outlawing such is both futile and impossible to enforce.  As for Strokes, consider it a matter of personal interest in the well-being of a friend and companion from foalhood.  As I have already stated, I had no political interests in mind when attempting to procure information as to the whereabouts of my friend."

He brushed a bit of loose dust from his foreleg.  "As to dangerous ideas, I would concur that psychopathism and kleptomania and a variety of omnicidal or extremist thoughts do indeed threaten the security of any society.  But in truth, I have no interest in such political or scientific matters.  My interests are, as I have said, strictly economic."

The stallion became serious.  "Now, as for any oaths, I will swear only to defend the citizens of Equestria, as I and my family has always done.  To swear otherwise would be ignoring the possibility of bringing harm to said citizens, and that, to me, is tantamount to genocide, which I personally cannot under any circumstance commend.  I cannot serve two causes at once if they contradict one another.  I must place the citizens of Equestria, their life, liberty and happiness, above any lofty goals or paths, no matter how grand the goal or powerful the individual.  As for blindly obeying Your Majesties' and your honor's plans, are Your Majesties and your honor infallible?  Had the soldiers of Equestria sworn eternal obedience to Your Majesty, Princess Luna, Goddess of Night, would they not have served a tyrant and created a civil war when Your Majesty was influenced by the Nightmare of the Moon?  And Your Majesties and your honor know full well that that is exactly what did occur, and to this day the Lunar Revolutionists continue to plague the life, liberty and happiness of the citizens of Equestria.  Given such circumstances, and such chilling possibilities, I cannot place the desires of Individuals, no matter how omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, wise or knowing, above the Equestrian Citizens."

Fancy sighed.  "Freeze what stocks need freezing; as for accounts, Your Majesties and your honor are quite well aware, I am sure, that I have only very few within Equestrian jurisdiction.  Freeze those if Your Majesties and your honor so choose."

He looked at the three once more with a neutral expression.

((and know that the majority of Fancy's wealth isn't even stored up in any particular accounts, stocks or bonds.  No businesspony would be stupid enough to trust entirely in the security of a single nation, especially Fancy, who knows quite well about the fragility of order after witnessing civil war and anarchy in his Journeys Beyond Equestria.  There is business to be done elsewhere.  Equestria is not the only nation in the world, no matter how powerful or wealthy its citizens believe it to be.))

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 27, 08:35:28

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 27, 08:29:03
"Ah there it is, shame the other two ran off but, I'm sure the will catch up got some questions for them"
Ryo enters the library with the others and walks up to the counter

"Hello there Violet how have you been today, sorry for being so late in, but mind if we use the research room for a tad"

  "Yeah, yeah." Violet looked up. "Oh, Ryo, you know it's the middle of the night, I've been open 4 hours over waiting for you. Listen your 'pals' are in the back. You go do your bloody Celestia-forsaken research." She threw him a key. "Lock up after I leave,  which would be now." The mare got to her chubby hooves and patted Ryo on the back. "Have fun with your black magic." And she was gone.

"Pleasant as always, come on, Ill have to explain the situation to......

"Ryo honestly do you have any idea how to keep time your late as per normal"A blue earthpony wearing a red shirt and doctor's coat stands by the entryway of the research room behind him a small yellow Pegasus more hiding rather than being open

"wh who are you with?"

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 27, 16:23:57

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 27, 08:35:28

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 27, 08:29:03
"Ah there it is, shame the other two ran off but, I'm sure the will catch up got some questions for them"
Ryo enters the library with the others and walks up to the counter

"Hello there Violet how have you been today, sorry for being so late in, but mind if we use the research room for a tad"

  "Yeah, yeah." Violet looked up. "Oh, Ryo, you know it's the middle of the night, I've been open 4 hours over waiting for you. Listen your 'pals' are in the back. You go do your bloody Celestia-forsaken research." She threw him a key. "Lock up after I leave,  which would be now." The mare got to her chubby hooves and patted Ryo on the back. "Have fun with your black magic." And she was gone.

"Pleasant as always, come on, Ill have to explain the situation to......

"Ryo honestly do you have any idea how to keep time your late as per normal"A blue earthpony wearing a red shirt and doctor's coat stands by the entryway of the research room behind him a small yellow Pegasus more hiding rather than being open

"wh who are you with?"

"...Is this where you work, Ryo?" Shofter asked.

Falliver was more than happy to introduce herself to the yellow pegasus, even though she was a talking parakeet. "HI! I'm Falliver! What's your name? I think it's a great name! We should be friends! Maybe we could even have a party!"

"Nah I just use this place for research its small enough so I don't get bothered by .... certain annoyances yet there able to get the resources I need in"


"........"  
"Im sorry about my friend she inst the best with others, and since Ryo failed to do so allow me to introduce myself, I'm Kai and this is Sara"

"I I Its good to meet you"

"now Ryo care to explain our guest please, I thought you needed help with the Empire case"

"I do but things happened and we may have two or three more joining us"
Ryo rubs his hoof on his main as Kai sighs
"What have you gotten into this time"
"It's a long story that even I don't think I understand , but first lets go sit down I have something to ask you Kai, since you know about Green Strokes"  Kai remains silent as he looks at his hooves for a second
"lets go sit down then"As he trots back in the research room

"Nice to meet you too Sara!" Falliver said with glee.

"Alright Falliver, that's enough. Let's go to the research room," Shofter said as she trotted after Ryo.

"H-Hey! Wait for me!"

Kai stands in the corner of the room Sara takes a seat a solemn look overtakes Kai's face

"Since your asking about Mr Strokes, I can assume that you were at the apartment complex then, *sigh* not a thing you want to see on your day of return, and the fact your asking me I can presume you haven't seen this"
Kai slides over a newspaper on the table listed is the advertisement for assistance
"There is something wrong going on in this town"

Upon Majem bumping into him, Silver nearly hit the roof as he jumped up with surprise. After slowly gliding back down to the floor, he turned to Majem, catching his breath before muttering a "No problem...", and reaching his hoof up to gently knock on the fine wooden door leading into office 624. After a few gentle raps, Silver stood back and waited for an answer, hoping it was the right one this time...

Morning Glory jumped nearly two feet when the knock came on the door. Fiorello, the parrot, squawked loudly in protest as she dove to collect up the papers she had dropped. She had been so deeply engrossed in her work, she hadn't realized how late it was. Or how far she was on edge. She frowned, but stood and checked her appearance in the mirror as she left the room. The train of her wine-colored silk gown rustled as it drifted over the carpet. Her eyes glanced to the clock on the wall and she paused. It was far too late for anyone to be calling for an appointment, and her uncle wouldn't knock at his own office.

She scowled at the door as she approached. For a moment she thought it might be the agents again. But then again, they hadn't knocked before. Why would they now? She regarded the knob for a moment, wishing there was a peephole.

Well, there was nothing for it. Fixing her politician's smile on her face, she opened the door a few inches.

"It's very late you know, and not at all proper to-"

She trailed off, recognizing the gray pegasus. As she looked to the unicorn, she scrutinized him in the blink of an eye, taking in features without staring impolitely. His face seemed familiar, but his mane had changed. She had a good memory for faces thanks to her work.

"Gentlecolts. I did not expect you to call so quickly. I hope you managed to avoid arrest- I didn't charm that captain for the gratification. Please come in." Morning Glory pulled the door all the way open and turned away, moving towards the ever dutiful teapot in the corner. "I'll put on a pot of tea. We have a great deal to discuss." She turned back to them, tossing her gleaming golden mane. "I am Lady Morning Glory of the Silver house. But you probably already knew that. Please have a seat." She gestured to a pair of fine velvet sofas surrounding a low oak table.

Majem moved his hoof through his hair, annoyed by what it looked like now. He tried to place it somewhat comfortable, but the door in front of them opened and a light purple coloured unicorn with yellow hair stood before them. Her olive green eyes looked down at them, which made Majem feel a bit uneasy.
((So, Morning Glory's taller than the both of us, huh?))

"Thank you, Lady Morning Glory. My name's Majem, and this is Silver." Majem said as he walked over to the sofas. He hesitated to sit down, but then realized his hair was in its natural state again, so he sat down in one of them and smiled at her. Majem pushed aside one last bit of hair and finally seemed somehow comfortable with his mane; He breathed a sigh of relief and continued.
"Yes, we did manage to get away without running into any other guards. But only thanks to you." He chuckled a bit, thinking back at it.

"I'm sorry not all of us could make it. The other two are in a library now, doing some sort of research, I believe?" He said unsure and looked over at Silver for a moment, hoping for a confirmation from him.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 27, 21:41:22
Kai stands in the corner of the room Sara takes a seat a solemn look overtakes Kai's face

"Since your asking about Mr Strokes, I can assume that you were at the apartment complex then, *sigh* not a thing you want to see on your day of return, and the fact your asking me I can presume you haven't seen this"
Kai slides over a newspaper on the table listed is the advertisement for assistance
"There is something wrong going on in this town"

Shofter just sits on a couch with Falliver perching on her shoulder.

Nodding shyly to the noble, Silver quietly followed Majem, sitting down next to him on the couch. As the other two talked, Silver looked about the office, and smiled at the parrot sitting on it's perch nearby. Silver seemed to be enjoying himself as Majem as Morning Glory talked, before noticing he was being addressed, and instantly read Majem's look.

"Erm, yes. I do believe the other two, one with a talking parakeet or something, went down to the library. For what purpose, I don't know. I'm a bit literate myself, but unless they're going to the Hooflock Holmes section, I doubt they'll find anything useful...Nevertheless, it's a pleasure to meet you ma'am. We were both a bit eager to get off the streets and away from that guard captain, and we're both quite ready for any information you can offer us; it's not every day one gets arrested for looking at a burned apartment..."

((I just realized something that makes me feel like an idiot at the moment.  Fancy's pending deportation is all due to a single assumption- that he actually is going to interfere with stuff.  What that doesn't take into account- he does not, and has no reason to, care.  At all.
Here's the post.  It may dig me out of the hole I seem to be in, and create another "Wernher von Braun" character who inadvertently works for both sides by sheer accident.  We'll see.))

The stallion suddenly chuckled to himself.  "You know, Your Majesties and your honor, when I awoke this morning, I expected an absolutely normal day.  Even my friend's disappearance could have been explained away rationally.  In truth, the idea of some sort of government conspiracy like the tabloids speak of was in my mind as impossible as jumping off a cliff and expecting to fly.  All of this, even up to the moment I walked in that door, and probably even now, was and is completely avoidable.   A mere question as to my purposes and some reassurance that my friend was safe would have quite sufficed in sating my curisoity.  Surely, a great chessmaster as your honor would have known that the best way to handle a meddling pony is to conince him that everything is normal.  The last thing one would want to do woud be to outright tell him about the secret in question.  Even now, truth be told, I would swear on my own name that I still have no political ambitions or any desire to meddle in what I presume to be national affairs.  That I will swear to."

Fancy was dead serious on this point.  "My only goals continue to be, in no particular order of importance, to assure myself that my friend is safe, to ensure the well-being of the citizens of this nation, to make more money today than I did the day before, and to get a good night's rest.  That, also, I will swear to, and Your Majesties and your honor may verify the honesty of that oath by whatever means might be deemed necessary."

He smiled again.  "Now, neither knowing nor having any desire to know whatever it is that has this palace in such an uproar over the concern of a single pony for profit and a friend's health, I am of course not exactly in a position to give suggestions, but if I were, I would think it a waste of your honor's time, energy and resources to take over all the nation's social welfare programs simply over what literally amounts to a misunderstanding."

With a somewhat ironic smile, "Although, if I might be so bold, I do find it odd that Your Majesties, goddesses that Your Majesties are, would yeild to the whim of mortals such as Madame Platinum here."

However ironic the smile, the aristocrat's face showed a genuine mixture of curiosity, confusion and some concern.  "Surely, Your Majesties' all-seeing eyes, the Holy Sun and Moon, would render any mortal spy network unnecessary."

He grew bored again.  "But to be honest, that little curiosity neither concerns nor interests me.  I do not lie, Your Majesties, your honor, and I will swear again: my only desires are but simply to rest up, make money, assure myself of my friend's safety, and to protect the life, liberty and happiness of my fellow citizens.  These goals have ever been my goals, though perhaps not those of my forefathers.  My great-great grandfather from what I know desired power and fame; my great-grandfather desired wealth; my grandfather desired safety; and my father desired influence.  Having been born with all this, I have neither need nor desire for any more fame, influence or power than I already hold.  Unlike some ponies I know, I am quite content with my social position and am generous with my wealth.  Have I not built countless orphanages, schools, hospitals, and employement centers for the less than fortunate among us?"

He asked the question rhetorically.  "Yet to fund all this, and to expand such institutions, requires ever more bits, which can only be gained through proper investment.  Your honor desires the weapons and armor companies?  Feel free to take them at your leisure then.  There is always profit to be gained elsewhere.  Weapons were but a single opportunity for increasing income, and I easily sacrifice when asked to.  Just this afternoon, I gave away a few hundred shares of a canning company I bought up the other day, which your honor is quite welcome to if you so desire.  I really don't see what all the fuss is about, and I don't really want to know, to be honest.  The only reason I was investigating my friend's disappearance in the first place was out of concern for his well-being.  Assured of that, or that it is being investigated without need for my assistance, I would gladly return to my estate and deal with my own affairs."

The pony was reasonable and professional with his statements, and meant every word.  Why should matter of state concern him at all?  They did not.  And now that he knew that the state itself did not even know where Strokes was, he had no reason to be concerned about them having kidnapped him.  The weapons stocks he had little interest in besides basic economics, and he had no desire to feud with the Platinums.  It was bad business to feud with your equals or your betters, after all.

(Yes I suppose so. She's about average height, and they're both below that, yes?)

Morning Glory stood politely as they took their seats. She seemed satisfied by their answers. "I am afraid a public library is unlikely to hold more than the Royal Archives." She nodded to the stack of newspapers sitting outside her personal office door, still unexplored. "I don't have anything close to full-access, but I can use the daily publication archive. Most of it's absolute claptrap, but further investigation may unearth a few choice articles."

She turned away, to begin preparing the teatray. "Tell me what you know of the building. And of the stallion knows as 'Strokes'." There was a flash of pale green magic, and the pot was steaming. Instead of adding an individual tea bag to each cup, she placed several into the pot directly. Herself and her uncle were very particular, but most ponies were prepared to drink fine black tea without objection, in her experience.

With the tray hovering perfectly level in the haze of her magic, she walked back and seated herself on the opposite sofa, laying down the tray. There were three cups and saucers, the teapot, sugar, cream, and a trio of spoons. Once the tray was set down the pot lifted and daintily poured out three servings. Her cup and saucer were then snared in green light and she lifted the cup to her lips with a small sigh. This tea would not be particularly strong, but she had not wanted to overwhelm her guests. Still, it was better than nothing.

She turned her eyes to the pair of them, watching intently.

Deciding to begin with his story, Silver leaned forward, gave a polite "Thank you." As he took the tea, and took a sip before beginning.

"This morning, Ms. Glory, I left from my cottage within the neighboring woods outside Canterlot to do some daily shopping in the market; as I'm a bit of a chemist and a gardener, I was picking up some seeds and the like. When I got here early this morning, I noticed the destroyed apartment, and payed it no mind as an ordinary fire. I decided to pick up a newspaper in order to find out something about it, but the article seemed...odd. Like it had bee hastily edited or something, as if we weren't being given details. Electing to go investigate it myself, I came upon the building and saw Majem talking with an odd unicorn, who was chased by the guards. I think her name was Bright Mane. Deciding to investigate this fire, as the argument did not interest me, I dug through some of the debris looking for anything that might at least divulge the cause of the fire.  However, I have yet to examine my sample of the debris thoroughly, due to the guard captain showing up, which you so kindly distracted for us. I noticed the business card you left, and Majem and I decided we'd like some answers, and supposed you were the best lead we had at the time. After examining my sample of the debris, I may be able to divulge something useful, but at the moment, I'm afraid I'm quite lost."

Sitting back into his seat, and taking another sip of the tea, Silver awaited a response from either of the other ponies there.

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 28, 10:31:53
((I just realized something that makes me feel like an idiot at the moment.  Fancy's pending deportation is all due to a single assumption- that he actually is going to interfere with stuff.  What that doesn't take into account- he does not, and has no reason to, care.  At all.
Here's the post.  It may dig me out of the hole I seem to be in, and create another "Wernher von Braun" character who inadvertently works for both sides by sheer accident.  We'll see.))

The stallion suddenly chuckled to himself. . .

  Madame Platinum laughed, a beautiful melodic chiming. This ringing calmed Celestia, who had seemed ready to burst in exclamation just moments before.  "Ah Fancy, I was mistaken you have taken the true lessons of your ancestors to heart. . ." Her knobby face turning once again in Fancy direction. "Pretend to have the good will of the ponies in heart but think of yourself and nothing else. . ." Slowly she rose, knees shaking, legs trembling. "Do you really believe any-government is more suited to judge the TRUE needs of pony-kind than eternal goddesses? Princess that have lived far beyond two millennia? Infallible? What government is not infallible? As for your . . . example, of Luna becoming Nightmare Night . . ." Her knot twisted slightly, a smile perhaps? "Well, you shall not swear loyalty to the princess, so you shall never know all the details." Platinum leaned forward and drank some of the mint liquid.

   "I'm afraid for you Fancy, the middle ground is falling away fast yet you continue clinging to it. There will be no 'middle' in this, eventually you will be forced to chose Fancy, unless you run . . ." She must of sneered. "Which does sound like a Pant's thing to do. . . ."

  Here Celestia took up the chant. "Though indeed our nation is not the only, and our powers are not unending, should you leave we shall never accept your like back into this nation. The Pants family will be denounced as traitors and our ill will shall follow you from sea to sea. AS FOR YOUR PRINCESS BEING INFALLIBLE, WE WOULD ADVISE AGAINST TESTING THAT CONJECTURE. OUR MIGHT MAY NOT BE INFINITE BUT OUR POWER FAR EXCEEDS YOUR OWN, DO NOT LOOK UPON US WITH DOWNCAST EYES, MORTAL. OUR DEALINGS ARE OUR OWN, SHOULD YOU NOT MAKE OATHS WITH US THEN YOU SHALL FIND YOURSELF RESTRAIND BY US!"  

   Luna stepped forward her face a mysterious enigma of emotions. "Perhaps thou doest not understand what thou hast stumbled within." [/color] She held her hooves out, a gesture of requisition or giving. "And thou hast claimed a strong desire for thine ponies' happiness and thou has not crossed thresholds, the ponies of Equestria are each owns ponies.  Surely thou dost see, thine ponies best interest lies in our hooves. The ponies of Equestria, long past, made foal-hardy decisions they are not equipped to defend themselves." Luna rose to her full height, slowly, silently. Placing a tentative hoof on her sister's shoulder "We are."

   Looking sadly upon Fancy, she pleaded. "Will thou not join hooves with ours? Help equestrian past this point of turmoil; Give her ponies new reason to cheer her name and forever rise her banner in honor? Or will thou allow her people to descend into civil war, brother and sister fighting one another. . ." The thought seemed to bring grief into Luna's endless face, diamond droplets fell upon the wooden table, leaving small moistened patches. "Thou want for war, Fancy? Thou want for the death of thine brethren and sisters?"

  Madame Platinum let out a harsh, 'ha'. "He doesn't care for his people! That's pure bile he puts out for the public, hypocrisy; did you not hear his plans for economy and business? He'd murder his best friend for the economic advantage. Claims he doesn't care for more prowess and wealth . . . and yet the reason he stands here is thanks to his nose pushing into economic affairs.  He CLAIMS he needs further investment, but his banks and wallet sit fat with the economic prosperity of Equestria. NO! I don't believe Fancy can be trusted in the slightest, he prowls like the expert politician, staying far from any light. Well my dear, dear, Pants you must make your choice, now."

  The three mares looked to Fancy, one with an ambiguous expression, indiscernible through age; another holding unending melancholy and a pleading 'for her ponies'; and the final was malice, haughtiness and distrust. "Will thou take the oath, Fancy? Thou may believe it dost not affect thine self but all ponies of Equestria shall soon be affected. Or dost thou revoke thine ponies?"

"We ask but once more, will you take the pledge?"

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Nov 28, 14:48:51

Quote from: The Wandering Magus on 2012 Nov 28, 10:31:53
((I just realized something that makes me feel like an idiot at the moment.  Fancy's pending deportation is all due to a single assumption- that he actually is going to interfere with stuff.  What that doesn't take into account- he does not, and has no reason to, care.  At all.
Here's the post.  It may dig me out of the hole I seem to be in, and create another "Wernher von Braun" character who inadvertently works for both sides by sheer accident.  We'll see.))

The stallion suddenly chuckled to himself. . .

  Madame Platinum laughed, a beautiful melodic chiming. This ringing calmed Celestia, who had seemed ready to burst in exclamation just moments before.  "Ah Fancy, I was mistaken you have taken the true lessons of your ancestors to heart. . ." Her knobby face turning once again in Fancy direction. "Pretend to have the good will of the ponies in heart but think of yourself and nothing else. . ." Slowly she rose, knees shaking, legs trembling. "Do you really believe any-government is more suited to judge the TRUE needs of pony-kind than eternal goddesses? Princess that have lived far beyond two millennia? Infallible? What government is not infallible? As for your . . . example, of Luna becoming Nightmare Night . . ." Her knot twisted slightly, a smile perhaps? "Well, you shall not swear loyalty to the princess, so you shall never know all the details." Platinum leaned forward and drank some of the mint liquid.

   "I'm afraid for you Fancy, the middle ground is falling away fast yet you continue clinging to it. There will be no 'middle' in this, eventually you will be forced to chose Fancy, unless you run . . ." She must of sneered. "Which does sound like a Pant's thing to do. . . ."

  Here Celestia took up the chant. "Though indeed our nation is not the only, and our powers are not unending, should you leave we shall never accept your like back into this nation. The Pants family will be denounced as traitors and our ill will shall follow you from sea to sea. AS FOR YOUR PRINCESS BEING INFALLIBLE, WE WOULD ADVISE AGAINST TESTING THAT CONJECTURE. OUR MIGHT MAY NOT BE INFINITE BUT OUR POWER FAR EXCEEDS YOUR OWN, DO NOT LOOK UPON US WITH DOWNCAST EYES, MORTAL. OUR DEALINGS ARE OUR OWN, SHOULD YOU NOT MAKE OATHS WITH US THEN YOU SHALL FIND YOURSELF RESTRAIND BY US!"  

   Luna stepped forward her face a mysterious enigma of emotions. "Perhaps thou doest not understand what thou hast stumbled within." [/color] She held her hooves out, a gesture of requisition or giving. "And thou hast claimed a strong desire for thine ponies' happiness and thou has not crossed thresholds, the ponies of Equestria are each owns ponies.  Surely thou dost see, thine ponies best interest lies in our hooves. The ponies of Equestria, long past, made foal-hardy decisions they are not equipped to defend themselves." Luna rose to her full height, slowly, silently. Placing a tentative hoof on her sister's shoulder "We are."

   Looking sadly upon Fancy, she pleaded. "Will thou not join hooves with ours? Help equestrian past this point of turmoil; Give her ponies new reason to cheer her name and forever rise her banner in honor? Or will thou allow her people to descend into civil war, brother and sister fighting one another. . ." The thought seemed to bring grief into Luna's endless face, diamond droplets fell upon the wooden table, leaving small moistened patches. "Thou want for war, Fancy? Thou want for the death of thine brethren and sisters?"

  Madame Platinum let out a harsh, 'ha'. "He doesn't care for his people! That's pure bile he puts out for the public, hypocrisy; did you not hear his plans for economy and business? He'd murder his best friend for the economic advantage. Claims he doesn't care for more prowess and wealth . . . and yet the reason he stands here is thanks to his nose pushing into economic affairs.  He CLAIMS he needs further investment, but his banks and wallet sit fat with the economic prosperity of Equestria. NO! I don't believe Fancy can be trusted in the slightest, he prowls like the expert politician, staying far from any light. Well my dear, dear, Pants you must make your choice, now."

  The three mares looked to Fancy, one with an ambiguous expression, indiscernible through age; another holding unending melancholy and a pleading 'for her ponies'; and the final was malice, haughtiness and distrust. "Will thou take the oath, Fancy? Thou may believe it dost not affect thine self but all ponies of Equestria shall soon be affected. Or dost thou revoke thine ponies?"

"We ask but once more, will you take the pledge?"

((ARGH I was writing for half an hour and accidentally pressed the refresh button, so I apologize if this is nowhere near my usual quality of writing >.<))

Fancy smiled.  "Again with the many accusations and questions.  I will attempt, as before, to address each and every one in turn.

"On the subject of my interests, I have ever placed the good of the ponies of Equestria first and foremost in my thoughts.  Do I not give well over half of all my income for the benefit of those among us who have need of assistance?  If I were truly as self-centered as your honor claims, I would not have given a single red cent for charity.

"It is true that no government is infallible.  But it seems ironic to me that the justification for absolute power is immortality.  Has not this justification been used before by the very tyrants Your Majesties overthrew in the name of liberty?

"I have never claimed nor desired nor presumed power or authority any greater than I have, Your Majesty, yet Your Majesty would have Your Majesty's ill will and contempt dog me with the same ill will and contempt those Your Majesties overthrew used to rule over the land.  Your Majesties' use of power and authority in spite and malice, how is this use different from the way those before Your Majesties used it?

"I do not wish to understand whatever it is I may or may not have stumbled upon.  It is none of my business, and I have no wish to control the lives of others.  I do indeed wish for the happiness and freedom of the citizens of this nation, yet at what cost?

"I would indeed help Equestria past this point of turmoil.  I would indeed give her ponies new reason to cheer her name and raise her banner in honor.  I am eternally opposed to unnecessary violence, to civil wars, to infighting, anarchy, chaos, the ills of society.  I would never wish war and death on anypony.  I should like to help everypony if possible, pegasus, unicorn, earth, other creatures.  Yet is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?

"Your honor claims that I do not care for my people when nothing could be farther from the truth.  Have I not sacrificed half of all I have for the good of those who need it more than I?  Have I not placed myself in harm's way for the sake of finding my friend?  I would willingly swear here and now that any increase in income, adjusted for inflation, would be used solely for the good of the citizens of Equestria.  That I would willingly swear, by any magic there is in the world.

"I would pledge eternal loyalty and fealty to the citizens of Equestria and of the world, of all creatures, for their right to freedom and equality in dignity and rights, the right to life, the right to liberty, the right to express one's opinion without fear, the right to freedom from slavery, the right to a family, the right to property, the right to freedom of thought, the right to freedom of religion, the right to conscience, the right to association and peaceful assembly, the right to leisure, the right to work, the right to pay, the right to just and favorable conditions of employment, the right to education, the right to peace and happiness.

"This would I pledge, and this oath would I take, in the name of all the stallions, mares and foals of Equestria, in the name of all the creatures beyond the borders of this land, in the name of the entire world, this would I solemnly swear, as I have always sworn.

"In truth, as I have said, I desire nothing more than to help the citizens of this land.  I would live by others' happiness, not by other's misery. I do not wish to hate or despise others.  In this world there is room for everypony, and the good earth is rich and can provide for everypony. The way of life can be free and beautiful indeed if ponies would simply realize it.  I don't want to rule anypony or hurt anypony.  At the end of the day, I wish to protect the life, liberty and happiness of Equestria, to ensure the safety of my friend, and to get a good night's rest.  That's all I desire."

Majem was making himself comfortable in his sofa and his cup began to levitate towards him. He sipped his tea as Silver was telling his story.
"I'm very certain examining the debris, or even returning to the scene, would be impossible for us. I'm not sure whether those guards remember us or not, but I wouldn't dare go near that place again. Well, not without precautions."

Majem's looked over at Morning Glory, then back at Silver.
"I guess I'll go and tell my story." He quickly finished the last bit of his tea and placed the cup back.
"I won't bore you with the details, but. Let's just say I finished work early today and was free to have a nice walk around Canterlot, which I planned on doing. But a strange blue earth pony walked up to me and told me of a burned down apartment. I was pretty curious and decided to follow him. He led me to the adress of the building described in Strokes' ad in the newspaper. It was a small one, somewhere in the back, I'm sure you saw it, no?"

Majem paused to adjust his hair, which fell back in front of his eyes. He tried to keep it out of his face a few times, but the stubborn hair kept falling down. "Hold on a second." His horn began to glow very faintly and his white mane turned into water. The glow in his horn vanished, but his mane remained in water form. "Much better, now where was I? Ah, yes." He cleared his throat to begin the rest of the story.

"I was just looking at the burned down building when this purple unicorn. Ah, Bright Mane, you said?" He looked over at Silver, but didn't really need a confirmation. "Well, she wanted us to leave immediately, though when I tried to, she wanted me to stay. To be honest, I think she wants help, but doesn't trust anypony. Can't blame her. Strokes seems to be the number one wanted pony right now, and he's looking for help! We're in trouble just because we found out about this. What would happen if we'd be helping him?" Majem shuddered for a moment and sighed.
"I hope Bright Mane is alright. She had a troop of guards after her."

(( XD Well, finally got around to making this post.))

The group of three finally made an entrance to Ponyville, jumping off the train. Range takes a look at the scenery around her and lets out a relaxed sigh.*

<Range> Aaaaaah Canterlot, as rich and prosperous as usual, I see. Been a while since We've had an outing here, eh Crimson?

<Crimson> *He chuckles a bit* Yeah, this is the place I managed to get us into that school, right? What did they call it again?

<Range> Uhhh... Canterlot's... School for Gifted Unicorns or whatever. Still, few good memories, some mixed with the bad. Remember those kids who used to pick on me and you'd always help out?
<Crimson> *He laughed out loud* Ha, Well what can I say? They had it coming.

<Price> *He kept silent a moment and fixed his fedora on his head a little bit. The changeling appeared disguised as a rather generic looking stallion, Brown coat, dark brown mane with a bob cut style, and a rather standard Equine tail. He looked back at Crimson and Range with a rather worried expression* So... I have to stay hidden how often now? *His voice started cracking when he spotted so many guards in his visible range that he felt a bit uncomfortable where he was standing*

<Crimson> Just only when we're out in public. We'll try to see about your citizenship to Equestria momentarily, but first... who do we even talk to about the fire that aroused again?

<Range> Uuuh... Now that you mention it, I don't quite remember myself. Diiiiid ya bring the newsletter?

<Crimson> Uuuuh...
<Range> :  :s Well do you remember what was that place the article was centered around?
<Crimson>: ._." Uuuh... *He repeated, showing he doesn't really remember much of anything.*
<Price> : If I'm right, the Company was something called "Green Strokes and Company", and that residential apartment that had burned down was on 17th Hoof Ave. Suite 33.


Range and Crimson both just looked at Price, a little distant minded and Price chuckled to them as the train started to depart once again.

<Price> : Heh, I spent some extra time reading.
<Crimson> : Heh, well, anyways, now we're just waisting daylight, fools. C'mon, let's check it out.

Crimson and Range both took off, but Price stands there for a moment to think about what Crimson said.

<Price> : Uh... but, isn't it... Nighttime? *He said as he slowly starts to catch up*
<Range> : Just pay it no attention, let's go!

"Kai, what exactly is going on, what's up with this add and the building"

Sara just looks up and quietly says
"Strokes is the famous author and artist, he was asking for help and well I was curious also so I came to ask Kai about it"

"Yes and though I've never met the man personally, I was going to look into his add, well before the fire, the odd thing is according to reports none were hurt and, the reporters are swarming the hospital for a better report yet there has been no information there, at least from what they have told me, no patients have been admitted, but the higher ups are locking away the admittance forms now because of recent events"
" So this is big then by the sounds"

"yes and unfortunately we have no idea where he is, and we aren't exactly going to announce public involvement, there's been a few incidences today with those who asked"

"Why is everyone suspecting Strokes? He's just an author and artist, right?" Shofter inquired.

that's the odd thing we don't know, as far as we can work out there is no reason for his involvement

"Yes as far as we are aware there are no records indicating anything to do with Strokes or his companions at least not anything documented,  I had planed on doing some reaserch into the matter out of curiously, and I have a few Ideas where to start looking into things"


((Any better on the colour front im now just messing with them a bit oh and im removing the size change also, so sara's text is subject to change colour my apologys for the inconviniance))

"It could mean someone is framing him," Shofter suggested.

Range and Crimson both arrive at the charred remains of the building. Price had left off a while ago in search of a small lunch, promising to catch up with them later. Range kicks around a bit of the rubble and whistles a bit.

<Range> Burned straight to the ground... Where was the Fire Brigade when all of this happened?
<Crimson> *Shrugs* Dunno, there wasn't any reports of their presence. Not a single one, according to the paper.
<Range> ... Soooo you Do remember something from the paper...
<Crimson> :s O-Only bits and pieces... Not the whole darn article, but just the parts that confused me, not to mention the absence of this "Green Strokes" pony. Who exactly is he and why was he missing after the burning went down?
<Range> : Well... It said he was a travling writter...
<Crimson> : Hah, now what were you saying about me remembering stuff from the paper?
<Range> : *She looked shocked for a moment, but then closed her eyes and chuckled a short bit.* Hehe, shut up.

"that's certainly a hypothesis, but I don't want to jump to conclusions, there are still mysteries out there, like one where is Strokes, two, why the sudden ask for assistance, three why the guards are looking for him and anypony involved with him and finally what happened his apartment building"


"hmm I must admit it was curious as to why the guard seemed so fishy and there was another pony there two ranting and raving, she seemed quite annoyed even before the guards appeared"  

"Yeah! But how are we going to get more information?" the parakeet piped up.

"Well my first Idea, was to re-read his books, there might be something in there that may be of use, perhaps, well that and there a good read"

Sara slides some books that were on the table all listed under Strokes's name as well as one other written by a alternate author

"These are the books a wonderful read, and his poetry is beautiful"

Range and Crimson just stood there a while and Crimson sighed, turning to Range while she kicked a small piece of rubble

<Crimson>: Well, we're hear... We've Seen where the building burned... Now what?
<Range>: I... Don't know. *She kicks another rock around*
<Crimson> : Try to see about Price's citizenship? He's been rather patient about it, despite how long it's taking.
<Range> : Uuuuuh, you realize how hard it is to get an audience from the Princess? I mean, I was only so lucky... Well, I don't know if lucky is the right word to use in this case, but I was only summoned because of that ray of light and then this thing.*She shows Crimson her foreleg, though it appeared nothing was on it. Regardless, Crimson nodded.* But now that you mention Price, where IS he? I hope he already didn't get caught... haven't even been an hour since we came here. :s Not only that, but how are we going to request him an audience with Celestia? I'm pretty sure we can't just waltz up in there; the guards would throw us out in an instant. Not only that, but if we even let out the fact he is a changeling, we're gonna spend a while getting questioned by the local militia.
<Crimson> : For right now, let's take things one at a time; Let's go find wherever  Price is, then we can worry about his green card.


Price was off elsewhere, feeding off of unsuspecting victims, a bit nervous that he might be exposed

(( XD If anyone wants. you can try to see him as suspicious. ))

((Price... will probably be caught...))

Morning Glory raised her brows as Majem mentioned an ad. "Strokes left an ad? Asking for help? Why haven't I seen it?" She got up and marched into her private office, snatching up the folder and the clippings in her magic. A nearby end table glowed green and zipped over to sit beside the tea tray. With a flurry of small scraps of newsprint, the pieces organized themselves and laid out neatly next to the file. Her eyes swept over them. "I have no record of an ad." She looked up at them grimly. "The piece was not archived. I have every mention of Strokes in the last ten years. That's... very concerning. It is supposed to be illegal to hold an article from the archive."

With a huff she resumed her seat and pushed her forelock out of her face. "Well, it seems you both happened upon this. I'm afraid I cannot say the same. Early today, a pair of federal agents came to interrogate my uncle, Lord Sterling Silver. I wasn't present, but the way uncle put it, they were badgering every noble they could lay their hooves on, looking for 'Green' sympathizers." She looked grim as she recollected her tea, simultaneously re-filling Majem's cup.

"Gentlecolts. Whatever it is we have unearthed, it is serious. Very serious. Something the Princesses fear. Something that could be a great threat to Canterlot. To Equestria. My family has always stood staunchly at the ready to protect the Equestrian peoples' safety and interests. There is a considerable chance, if we continue our investigation, that we will be putting ourselves in danger of incarceration at the least. It's possible we could be marked traitors to the Crown and exiled from Equestria..."

She stopped, not wanting to scare them away. "So, if you wish to take your leave and never give the matter another thought, I will hold no grudge. I may have the resources and connections to protect myself, but I understand that you may have families, friends, and aspirations that you cannot put at risk"

"My uncle and I need to know what is happening." She sipped her tea casually, but her tail twitched and her left ear flicked back and forth, betraying her discomfort. "As much as we wish to respect the Princess's rights to privacy, the gravity of this situation is not something we can ignore. If you wish to join us, I will provide you with my resources, my information, and my family's protection. Although, the value of the latter may be deteriorating rapidly. But we will do what we can."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Nov 29, 15:14:01
"Well my first Idea, was to re-read his books, there might be something in there that may be of use, perhaps, well that and there a good read"

Sara slides some books that were on the table all listed under Strokes's name as well as one other written by a alternate author

"These are the books a wonderful read, and his poetry is beautiful"

Shofter took one of the books written by Strokes and started reading. Falliver noticed the book written by an alternate author, got interested, and started reading that instead.

Silver listened carefully as Majem and Morning Glory spoke, silently sipping his tea with a concerned expression. When Morning Glory had finished, he gently put down his cup before taking a deep breath.

"Well, I'm going to be honest here. I'd absolutely love to leave this whole mess right now and pretend I never had I thing to do with it. I've got a home to live in and a garden to tend. Sadly, until this....conspiracy? Plot? Whatever it may be...Until it is resolved, I'm going to be on the run from that guard captain and all his troops 24/7. I really see no reason to not help, Ms. Glory. Therefore, you have my services and all my abilities at your disposal."

Sitting back down in his seat, slightly more relaxed than before, he nonchalantly took another sip of tea, awaiting Majem's response.

Majem sighed, troubled by the decision he had to make now. His family was very important, but so was this event.
"I... I want to help with this." He said, very unsure and stared into nothing as he got lost in thought. His mane stopped waving, too.

After a few seconds of thinking about his family, he snaps out of it with a smirk and his mane began to wave excited. "I'll definitely help out here. Whatever this thing is, I'll be sure to find out. Exile? No problem, I've always wanted to adventure far beyond home."
"I'd love to see what father, dear father will do when he hears about this."

Equestrian Calender & Canterlot Time :
  The 7th Year of the return of the moon; The 8th of the 9th moon. Year 1874 of the Equestrian Empire.

About 7:20 Celestia Dominance. Papers were out on the streets, papers with declarations no-pony had seen this generation. 'Strokes, public enemy #1. Wanted for crimes against pony-dom. Traitor and attemptive usurper. Wanted for both slander and libel, concerning the princess and the Equestrian government; Wanted for encouraging agressive gatherings; Wanted for encouraging agressive sucession from Equestria.
  Should any pony come into contact with this dangerous criminal they are advised to immedietly contact the nearest guard. DO NOT attempt to make contact with the criminal. DO NOT make conversation with the criminal.

The day was bright and lively, a perfect day for Equestrian panic and that is what was occuring. Ponies might not of been running around like maniacs, but there was a definitive 'cloud' of dread in the air. Ponies were down-trodden and worried. And for good reason! A 'most wanted criminal' isn't something most of them had heard of.
   

Feather and Juniper's routine was the same as ever.  One made breakfast as the other awoke, and after some sweet affirmations of love to one another, parted ways for their respective occupations.

Feather was quite bothered by the clamoring of disturbed ponies this time on his ride to the station.  It wasn't so much the news, it was the clamoring more than anything else.  What business was it of his whether some crazy pony was running about like chickens covered in poison joke?  It wasn't his problem, and he aimed to keep it that way.

He arrived shortly at the station in Canterlot, where even MORE ponies with too much time on their hooves were scrambling about like it was the end of the world.  And to think that just the other day the same ponies were clamoring about peace.  The professor put a hoof to his face at the sheer irrationality of the situation, then decided the best thing to do was simply to ignore the situation and move on.

Unfortunately... the SAME situation was present at the Academy as well, which irked him more than anything yet.  Not only because it was a repetition of the same thing all morning, but because these very ponies, these ACADEMICS, were having the SAME reaction to this mess.  The professor was so irate that by the time lecture began, he actually spoke without needing the voice amplifier, ranting for a full fifteen minutes about being focused on the subject at hoof rather than things that didn't concern oneself before returning to the lecture subject.  His prize students in the front row were amiable enough, though, and after about an hour the professor had calmed himself enough to return to his voice amplifier and his usual tone of voice.

Range and Crimson have been searching for Price for quite some time now.
<Range>: ... Where is that bugger?   >:/
<Crimson> : Well this is annoying, did he shift forms without us knowing?
<Range>: Ugh, maybe, explains why we can't find him.
Crimson looks to the news stand and buys the newest article and looks it over a short moment.
<Crimson> Hmm.... Ey Range, Take a look at this. More stuff about that Strokes fellow.
Range walks over to Crimson and took a small peek at the article, looking up to Crimson afterwards
<Range> Huh, Guess this means he's responsible for that fire?
<Crimson> Heh, I think he did a lot more than that to earn public enemy #1. But thiiiis is eye opening here; Why are we just now hearing about attempts of  overthrowing the princess?
<Range> It... It's rather peculiar, admittedly. *She looks off and peeks around at everypony scrambling around the place* Jeez, what's up with everypony today?
<Crimson> Assuming they all read the news article today... Well, what do we do now? Search around and investigate the accusations against Strokes or find Pri-
He was cut short by a sudden yellow mare swooping down and landing right ontop of Range. A Green Glow surrounded the strange pegasus and reverted back to a Changeling in a treanch coat. Crimson chuckled and smiled
<Crimson> Well, there's our answer!
<Range> Ugh... * She felt pained for a moment* Ok... Price... 2 things....
<Price> Bluh... Yes?
<Range> 1... Turn back into your earth form.
Price does as he's told and shifts back into a brown coated earth pony.
<Priice> And the second thing?
Range gritted her teeth a moment and placed one of her forehooves to the ground, a spark flying up and the ground starts to be manipulated as it seemingly grabs Price in the form of 10 stone hands.
<Range> Would you kindly GET OFF OF ME!?  >:O

The hands seem to toss Price a small distance of 4m away from Range, yelling out in utter shock and surprise. Range finally gets up and dusts herself off.
<Range> Better...
<Crimson>   :I
<Price>  o_o

Morning Glory stood stalwart at her Uncle's side as he addressed a crowd of press representatives and worried citizens. They had been placed on damage control, and would be spending the day reassuring the public that the Princesses were in control, that Canterlot was secure, and that Strokes would be caught with all haste. They had started their day early, to get a jump on the gaggle of press ponies that had gathered outside the Capitol Building. Sterling expertly recited the canned phrases that had been sent to all representatives of the Crown.

Morning Glory herself had little to do other than support her uncle as he issued whatever carefully spun message the Crown demanded. She wore a silvery colored dress with black trim, and a pair of broad sunglasses. Less to keep the sun from her face, and more to keep herself from being identified by a certain guard captain in a photo snapped by an excited press pony.

In the bottom of her purse, two letters sat sealed but unstamped. She had more information for Majem and Silver, and instructions on when they could meet again.

Finally, after nearly an hour of speaking comfort to the masses, Sterling gave her a subtle signal. Stepping in front of him, she smiled. "I'm sorry, but Lord Sterling need to attend to his work. No criminal at large will keep the Crown and her servants from their duty. Thank you." They both then quickly scampered inside and up to their office.

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Dec 01, 20:34:42
About 7:20 Celestia Dominance. Papers were out on the streets, papers with declarations no-pony had seen this generation. 'Strokes, public enemy #1. Wanted for crimes against pony-dom. Traitor and attemptive usurper. Wanted for both slander and libel, concerning the princess and the Equestrian government; Wanted for encouraging agressive gatherings; Wanted for encouraging agressive sucession from Equestria.
  Should any pony come into contact with this dangerous criminal they are advised to immedietly contact the nearest guard. DO NOT attempt to make contact with the criminal. DO NOT make conversation with the criminal.

As Falliver was reading (and getting bored), one of the papers flew into the library, onto the back of Falliver's head. She took it and read it. Afterwards Shofter heard the commotion outside. "What IS going on out there?"

Quote from: GalvinRoe on 2012 Dec 02, 22:05:15

Quote from: Tiger on 2012 Dec 02, 21:16:55
As Falliver was reading (and getting bored), one of the papers flew into the library, onto the back of Falliver's head. She took it and read it. "Hey guys, look at this piece of paper I found."

  (Excuse me Tiger, but can you revise this post . . . just a little? It doesn't really make sense. Since you and Ryo were inside of a locked library I don't really see how a paper could of flew in. Would Shofter and Falliver have stayed in the library all night? And if so . . . then just a revision of the paper thing. I know it's 'convinent' to have it just appear. But in this case it might even be better to look around outside for it, see the panic, wonder: "what is going on". Either way, for consistancy's sake, can you edit just a smidge?)

((Well, a door always has a gap beneath it right? Paper is thin enough to fly through it ovO
But, sure, I'll edit it. Editing...))

((Then what the heck am I supposed to put to make it so that we discover the papers...))

Silver woke up in his bed, rubbing bleary eyes and sitting up to look at the clock. His eyes widened in surprise at the time, before he plopped back down on the bed with a sigh. It had been a long and confusing night, and probably there were many more to come.
Over the night, he, Majem, and Morning Glory had talked almost endlessly it seemed. Silver had tried to remain calm despite being caught up in such a mess, and so suddenly too.
Deciding he may as well make the best of it, Silver sat up, donned his cloak, and left the hotel room where he had spent the night. As he trotted down to the lobby, he turned in his room key and paid the manager, before laying his hood over his head and departing, assuming that after the days events, he wouldn't be able to spend a night in a hotel anyway.
As he trotted down the crowded streets, doing his best to hide within the crowd, Silver got to a gardening shop, and calmly picked out some herbs of various types, and stowed them into a special side-pocket of his saddlebags after paying for them.
Sitting down at a cafe table on a side-street, Silver began to note down what he had learned thus far, and drew a few diagrams of things he had observed. Retrieving his sample of the rubble from the building, Silver laid the small, charred piece of the building on the table in front of him, examining it with his magnifying glass. As he did this, he placed a small, portable beaker next to him on the table, and laid a ground-up herb within it.

"Majem!" Majem could hear a faint voice call out to him and feel a gentle nudge against his side.
"MAJEM!" He was pushed around and he woke up with a silent scream. He rubbed his eyes and found himself on a chair in the cafetaria of his working place. The pony with which he had an argument the day before stood before him and looked a little worried.

"Sorry. A lot has happened yesterday and... it was rather late. Didn't feel like going home." He said as he picked himself up and dusted himself off.
"About yesterday. I'm sorry for what I said."
"Yeah, me too. Hey, do you still have those chemicals?"
"Uhh... what's left of it, sure. Why?"
"Can I have them? I think I could use them."
"Well, you're lucky. With the incident yesterday I forgot to get rid of them. You saw what they do, can't be safe for nature."

The green pony left the cafetaria and returned a while later with a few test tubes, closed with a cork and wrapped in a plastic bag.
"Here, just make sure you don't drop it."
"Don't worry, I'll put them to good use." He said and put them in his bag. "Well, let's get to work, then?"
"Uhh, it's our free day."
"Oh, right. Wait, what are you doing here, then?"
"Gotta clean the entire lab. Punishment for yesterday. I take full responsibility, it was my fault."
Majem looked at him for a moment, then smiled and leaned in to hug him. "You may be an idiot at times, but you're a great friend."
"Right back at yah. Now go, enjoy your day."

Majem walked out; it did good after sleeping there. He was stiff and slowly walked around Canterlot. Every step hurt, but the pain became less until he was better. Majem found himself walking towards the burned ruins from the appartment and quickly changed his walking route to somewhere else.
"Ugh, I wonder where the others are. And what they managed to find in the library." He thought and stared down the street. The library was close, but he didn't know if they'd still be there.
"I can always try." He said to himself and went into the library.

Once inside the lobby of the Capitol Building, Morning Glory saw her uncle on to the elevator before heading to the post center on the ground floor. She pulled the pair of letters out of her bag and approached the counter. "Two letters for the courier please. Same day priority."

She pulled out a green feather quill and quickly added Silver and Majem's names to one each of the letters. Then with a flash of her horn, a different mark appeared on each. One a whirlpool, the other bubbling flask. Now the courier would be able to find them without question, so long as they were within the boundaries of the city.

Reaching into her money bag, she dropped four gold coins on the desk.

The pony behind the desk took the letters and bits and applied several different ink stamps before pulling a thin chain overhead. A whistle sounded and a brown pegasus dressed in a sleek blue uniform zipped into view. The letters were added to her bag. "Thank you, milady. You have the Royal Courier's guarantee your correspondence will be delivered before noon." The pegasus saluted and bolted out the wide nearby entrance.

Morning Glory nodded and took the quick trip to the sixth floor. Once confirming that her uncle was busy and secure she headed back outside and called the family driver. She had decided it would be safer and more private if they met at her home. There were too many eyes and ears watching the Capitol Building. Both letters bore an invitation to dinner and instructions.

Few moments later the entire group sits by a nearby bench and tries to enjoy the scenery... The keyword being "Try" Since everypony else seems to be in quite a panic today.
<Price> Are Equines usually this frantic?
<Crimson> Not that I can remember, no. This is actually the first time I've witnessed a crisis anywhere in Equestria... Then again, I haven't been here for over 2 years, so that explains it.
<Range> Wonder what could be so serious though? Not like Nightmare Moon, or Sombra, or DISCORD... *She grits her teeth a moment at her mention of Discord* Oh, and also not like the Changelings are invading Canterlot again, so your question is as good as mine Price... Are we all really that fearful? I mean, yeah, Most wanted is not a pleasant title to have in Equestria, but in all honesty, much worse has already swept over the continent.
<Crimson> Whatever the case, consider this a warning to keep our eyes open for any suspicious activity.

An earth pony guard passes by and stops to turn his attention to the group sitting down. He walks up and seems to specifically look towards Range.
<Guard> Alchemist. *He said in a rather serious and unsurprised tone.*
Range looks up to the guard in a slight bit of shock. She spoke a bit quietly.
<Range> Yes sir?
<Guard> *He studied her a bit, moving in closer, his eyes squinting as he takes a small look at her. She looked at him back, not knowing what to expect, feeling a slight bit of awkwardness. He moved his head back and nodded, still wearing a straight face* Carry on... *He trots on off, continuing about his business.*

Crimson and Price turned to Range in a bit of a shock.
<Crimson> What in the world was THAT all about?
<Range> I... Think I might know... It's a long story; I'll explain some other time.
Crimson sat back and relaxed off on the bench
<Crimson> Suit yourself...

At the start of the new day after a nights rest from the work in the night ((on the assumption we left and came back)) still slightly tired Ryo renters the Library with a paper and keys in hoof
"Here you go your keys back, thank you for letting me work here last night"
He then proceeds to move a newspaper onto the table using his magic
"Look what I managed to get my hooves on, an early copy of today's paper, a certain pony I met managed to get some in the early rounds, good thing to these thing are selling like crazy, and is causing quite some chaos from what's in it"  
((This should fix the anomalies for the most part, the paper you got Tiger was from Ryo's magic and to fix the last problem would you mind not hearing the outside also Kai hasn't returned yet but Sara is there))

Shofter levitated the newspaper to herself and read it. "Hm. We don't know if they're just trying to cover up something."

"Kai isn't with you?"

"he had to check up on something he'll catch up later, though I'm afraid there may be bigger worries, strokes is being called a traitor, and this is getting a lot more serious than we expected"

"I don't care what the papers say, I want to find this guy and talk to him!" Falliver said rather aggressively.

"easier said than done now that, this exists do you really think he will reveal himself or information would be available, no leads, no information and a handicap on what we can do"

Ryo begins to laugh to himself
"sounds like my kind of game, its been a while since I messed with the system"

"System? What syste- Wait, are you saying..."

"dont worry about it just how i refer to the goverment from time to time simple things really"

"Riiight... What exactly do you plan to do?" Shofter asked.

"I have no idea, I guess a good bet would be to find those we do know have information"Ryo just laughs at his own statement
Sara sighs "why is he always like this, such a child at times "

"Riight... Where do we start?"

Sara takes here ribbon tied on her hoof and then proceeds to tie her main up and her voice becomes somewhat confident

"Given the facts that you three provided yesterday as well as your encounter with the guards I see several prime opportunities for information gathering, the first is to find those other three who ran off the other day who I presume nether of you heard back from,  the second is to check up on strokes company, but again that might be a bit of a lost cause I fear, however our final option is to go to places that his many works would be involved, perhaps investors would follow their stock if you see what I'm saying"  

"Sounds like a plan!" Falliver said excitedly. "Should we split up to get things done faster?"

"The fact remains that if we divide we will cover more ground, however information will harder to obtain, and a meeting point should be established in the same manner"

"Just what I expected of the tactician"
Sara gives Ryo a quick glare as he gulps
"Anyway Id suggest moving in groups of two, that way it will be easier to keep track and avoid unwanted contact , Ryo where were we meeting Kai later"

"uuuur by the fountain I believe"

"then thats where we will regroup later any complaints or questions"

"No questions. Falliver and I will go together. What do we do?" Shofter said.

"at this point in time our best option is to find those, you were with yesterday, since if they were at Strokes apartment, they might be able to divulge a bit more information, failing that listening to rumours being said might give us a clue, just be careful while asking questions due to the obvious result"

Majem entered the library and began looking around. He wasn't really expecting to find the others.
"Ugh, what am I even doing here?" He said to himself.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Dec 08, 08:26:52
"at this point in time our best option is to find those, you were with yesterday, since if they were at Strokes apartment, they might be able to divulge a bit more information, failing that listening to rumours being said might give us a clue, just be careful while asking questions due to the obvious result"

"Thing is, we don't know where they went," Shofter said.

"I already calculated that factor, but I've concluded if they were looking for strokes also, Its most likely they would be in the nearby vicinity"

Ryo looks out of the research room
"It appears we have a far shorter search than we thought"  
Ryo points out Majem out the door

"Right. Should we be heading off now?"

Range and her companions have been wandering around Canterlot for heaven knows how long, yet they still have no idea where to start on the investigation, or gained any leads to what's going on. Range Lets out an agitated groan.

<Crimson> We have noooo idea what we're doing, do we?
<Range> W...Well yeah, I'd say so- Dear Celestia, does everything have to be so complicated?  Oh yeah, and Price, sorry if my name with the guard makes it any more difficult to obtain a citizenship to Equestria...
<Price> I'm not appalled at all little alchemist, however, I'd like to know... What did you do to get every guard alerted of your existence?

Range sighs and thinks were to start.

<Range> Well, for one I have the stone with me, but I don't think any of the guards know that... What got them to all swarm around is the fact a few weeks back I Used that Transmutation Array you had shown me, the  5 point Ouroburos Array.
<Price> Aaaaah, And I suppose you have the tool as well?
Range held up her front right hoof and nodded. Something, seemingly like a bracelet forms around her foreleg, seeming transparent and gave off this odd, foreboding dark energy. Afterwards it vanished, possibly binding with her soul.
<Range> Yes... Although, I don't see what you all mean by the corruption, you or the princess.
<Price> Oh, it will come Ms. Conjure. All who ever held that device has had the seeds of corruption sprout, festering within their minds, corrupting their souls...

Range looks down to the ground to think carefully about what Price had said... Maybe she made a bad decision in letting her curiosity get the best of her. She shakes her head momentarily and motions the group to carry on with her.

The new dawn had brought much to Canterlot; reason to speculate about the way things were, perhaps even reason to worry, had found themselves accommodating homes within the citizens. Among the changing atmosphere of Canterlot another, perhaps smaller, change was weaving itself between building and street. A tall brown silhouette, a stallion familiar to some and known as 'Right-Hoof'. The recent outbreak of paranoia hadn't affected him, his name had been neglected in the recent articles on Green Strokes, and luckier still . . . his photograph.

  Something had incensed him and his purpose here seemed a likely category for a 'mad-dash'. Already sweating in the cool dawn the exertion wasn't the only thing noticeably different about him. Righ-Hoof was thin as a rail, his once muscular body now a skeleton of a frame, his eyes puffy and tired and his wheezing and wet cough emphasized his, less than perfect, health.

   Shadows seemed to shoot along the walkways as he speed by, dancing around as he passed, they flickered in odd ways, twisting in directions impossible in the light. One flicked towards the sun, almost detaching from the poll acting as it's corporal patron.  Right Hoof may have noticed these odd distortions, they may have been what egged him on . . . but he shew nothing but concentration on his strange mission . . .

*  *   *

  Fancy had been dismissed, and sent to idle away his time at home . . . his stocks and business activities have been refused to him, unless he should give complete fealty to the Princess. And of course leaving the premises and receiving guests was forbidden. So, because of this, or possibly from what he had learned last night, the sight of the pony waiting for Fancy may have surprised him . ..

  Fleur was waiting in all her mystery and grace, frowning at the lord who's world had been turned upside down. She bowed slightly, never removing her eyes from him.

"Moisure Fantaisie, I've come to deliver some information, information I'm sure you'll find rather enticing." Her tone was like it always was, neutral, calm and alluring. "A certain acquaintance of your friend, Green Strokes, has popped up into Canterlot, in-fact he's running through Canterlot right now. Do you know who this person might be? " But here her false tone ended, and the world's greatest assassin pushed some emotion into her voice, was it an act or did she mean what she expressed? " Listen, Fancy, Right-hoof is in town. He's running through the place like a menace, my brother's and sisters are upon him but we won't capture him. Still . . . that is a small kindness, the guards will soon have him in their sights and from the direction he's headed. " She put her great emotional eyes on him.

"Fancy, this place is watched day and night and not just by me. Madame Platinum is far too wise to just  rely on me to watch you, along with the guards. If hoof comes running up to your gates he'll be apprehended before he has time to think, and of course it'll be bad for you as well . . ."

Fleur paused, her frown more prominent now, more meaningful. "I CAN'T help Right-Hoof Fancy, I CAN'T and I can't say WHY I can't either. . . Fancy, Hoof is in trouble, I-I can distract the ponies watching the doors but you HAVE to hide Hoof when he get's inside. They'll undoubtedly search your entire household, I have to bring them this information." Fleur stopped, her confident gaze falling to the ground, a bead or two of sweat trickling down her neck. "This is it, Fancy. I won't be able to assist you much further from this point on, in fact I'd suggest you DON'T trust anything I tell you next time we meet, and from that point forward."

And for the last time, Fleur bowed her obliging head and muttered. "Moiseure Fantaisie."  Then she was gone.

The aristocrat watched his once-trusted acquaintance flee like the demons of Tartarus were after her, a smile playing at the edge of his lips.  The Princesses were powerful, it was true.  They held tremendous political and magical power.  But, there was one thing that both the Celestian Loyalists AND the Lunar Revolutionists got wrong.  They were no goddesses, and did not know everything, and Their sight could be shrouded as much as any other pony.

Over the past century, there had always been a sort of rivalry between the numerous secret societies and organizations which controlled all of Equestria from the shadows.  Since the beginning, the Pants line had learned the hard way never to rely on any one faction in an ever-changing world.  Emperors died and were replaced by incompetent or corrupt sons, warlords changed sides on a dime, and the underworld was a chaotic mass of betrayal and backstabbing wretches without conscience.  And as for the Sisters, They had never been loyal to anything besides Themselves, and were perhaps the most untrustworthy of all.  But some things did not change in the world.  A war was brewing, not yet at hoof, but sure to bring the world order to the brink of destruction.  Whether it collapsed and fell to fire and flame entirely or quietly shifted into some hitherto-unimagined new form of government would never be certain, but change would come, whether the Sisters wished it or no.

There was an old partner in the blackest hive of scum and villainy in all of Equestria the Pants line occasionally turned to.  He had no name, no appearance, no voice that was known to any authority.  He was a friend to none, but had his own purposes for whatever questionable deeds he and his Family committed the world over.  War could be both good and bad for business, depending on how it turned, but a truly world-ending conclusion was most certainly in the latter category, as was a complete autocracy of the mind.  This partner, called the Godfather, owed the Pants line several favors, large ones.  But whether those favors would be outweighed by favors owed to the newly-revealed faction in town remained to be seen.

Fancy, for his part, was not worried about money.  Simply giving away the contents of his garden would have sufficed to crash the entire world Economy in a heartbeat, to say nothing of the numerous trade he was involved in outside Equestrian jurisdiction, in countries that were not so friendly with the nation nor so weak as the naive citizens here assumed.  Though assassinations may occur, there were far more factions than even a chessmistress like Platinum, or any chessmistress, could truly know, and none were truly predictable either.  If the world was a barrel of wet powder, the civil war in Zebraci, the seemingly immortal Emperor of Ibexia, the monks of Llamabad, and the growing blizzards in Griffonheimr were a desert wind driving away the moisture.  And even without more news, the aristocrat knew one more thing: that the ponies he had intended to investigate earlier could potentially be the spark to ignite the inevitable change.

Such anarchic, uncontrollable, chaotic change would worry any would-be dictator, regardless how powerful or confident they seemed.  It was more evident now than ever why the Princesses feared Discord so.  Perhaps... but no.  Not yet.  Not until all other solutions are proven insufficient.

The Servants of the house were fanatically loyal to their Master, to a religious extent unrivalled even by the most fervent of Zebracin paladins.  From birth till death, every moment, every breath, every thought was devoted to the servitude and protection of their Master, not by obligation or force, but by personal choice.  Neither death nor torture nor goddess nor demon would ever cause them to betray the Master, unlike the situation with Fleur.  And of all these servants, the most loyal, the most fanatical, the most passionate of all was Bloodblade, the one who had raised Fancy from birth.  Though all the world fall into ruin, Fancy knew he still had allies he could trust.  He knew each Servant's name like they were part of him.  There was a sort of inseparable bond between the Master and the Servants, which could not be severed by anything.  Indeed, it was rumored and half-believed that even after death the Servants of the House kept watch over the line, in the afterworld if no longer on the mortal planes.  There was a will that was stronger, perhaps, than even mind control and memory loss.  Many attempts had been made in the past to assassinate one of the line, yet none have ever succeeded, neither changelings nor Zebracin hypnosis spells.  It was as if the souls of Servant and Master were one and the same.  Fancy knew he had allies he could trust.

Though his net of conspiracies had been dismantled by his own request physically, it lay clear as ever in his own mind as he mentally added line after line of new strings, all pointing to the Powers That Be.  Zebraci droughts, Ibexianese industry, and especially the current developments with Equestria's war-related companies.

Now was the time of silence, of the using of bonds so fundamental, so unique to the Estate that it could not be replicated elsewhere save by the control of thoughts.  How would he move from here?  Not even the Princesses knew.  Fancy's thoughts were his own, hidden.  His Servants were his own.  His house was his own.

There was a whisper, and a shadow in the wall disappeared.  Would a body ever appear?  Who knows?

A group of quiet maids walked down a darkened stretch of hallway.  Now here, now gone, now here again.  It seems there are less shadows than there were a moment ago.  What occurred?  Who knows?

If one of the most powerful groups of assassins were once allied with Fancy, they were no longer.  There were secrets of the Estate known only to Fancy and the Servants, that no torture or probing would reveal.  Alliances, even close ones, were always a temporary matter to the Master of the House.

Were there invisible hooves somewhere in the ceiling?  A Servant goes to fetch bread from the pantry.  He returns, breathing slightly heavily, but otherwise unchanged.

One by one, shadows and shimmers, wisps and whispers, the many petals of the White Lily Blossom, the eyes and ears of Those known to most as goddesses, the tentacles of a secret aristocrat, vanished like the faint imaginings they seemed to be.  An obscure darkness fell over and about the estate, nigh on impenetrable.

Fancy knew he had allies he could trust.

((look, GR.  There was a reason I was backing away from this hot potato before.  I built Fancy a particular way, with particular safeguards for just the sort of scenario you're trying to push.  If you remember, it was supposed to be for safeguarding Sweet and Elite.  I don't like cold wars.  I don't like violence or feuds.  But I'll admit this one time that I personally invest emotions and effort into my characters, and I'm the kind to personally take offense when dispropotionately bad things happen to them.  I was going to type a few lines about nuclear warfare and deterrence, but I think I'll leave it at that.  I would be really disappointed if things came to rifts off a single RP, and I mean that whole-heartedly.  I think I've described my play style to you many times already, especially considering what I presume to be the currently dead Pathfinder game.  Anyhow, I'd rather this end peacefully and in a friendly manner, and I do so hope it does both in game and in real life.))

Glacial Shard walked into the Cappuccino Cafe. His hair was hastily brushed, and his eyes were tired looking. He sat down at a table.
A few moments later, a waitress came over and asked cheerily, "What would you like?"
"Black coffee. No cream or sugar." he replied.
"Okay. Comin' right up," she said as she walked away, looking a bit irritated. (How stupid does he think I am!?)
"Thanks," Shard said. "Real hospitable." he muttered once she was out of view and hearing. He looked out the window to see ponies walking by in fancy clothes or hats. ( Sometimes I wonder why I live here. It is closer to work, but the atmosphere is a bit uptight and ...fancy?)
~~~~
She returned a couple minutes later with Shard's coffee. "Here," she spat while setting the mug down on the table.
Shard wondered, (Was she really that offended?)
" Thank you, miss." he said politely, trying to rectify his first appearance. He levitated to mug from the table and sipped at it.
The mare stayed silent, shot him a glare, and walked away.
(And her problem would be? ... Pff. Nothing I can do about her attitude.) The stallion drank his coffee while listening to the babble of two mares at a  nearby table.

Quote from: PPBG on 2012 Dec 12, 19:17:07
Glacial Shard walked into the Cappuccino Cafe. His hair was hastily brushed, and his eyes were tired looking. He sat down at a table. . .

A couple ponies gasped, and a few of the exterior customers stood to their hooves, pointing out a stallion sprinting down the avenue. His eyes bloodshot and blood dripping from his nostrils but he sprinted on, visible only for a moment then gone as quickly as he appeared.

The customers outside shook their heads and the waitress promptly poured a whole pot of coffee down an elderly stallions vest. The air of the shop had become thick with gossip and worried glances. Then shard caught hold of the gossip from the corner of the room. . .

"Do you know who that was? Things have been so . . . odd around here now-a-days. First that Strokes fellow comes around gathering up some kind of think-tank of researchers, then they all dissapeared or dropped out of society. I tell you something's up here, Bellatrix." This barely audible pondering came from a middle-aged unicorn stooped over a game of chess with a young, haughty pegasus mare. The tip of his generous beard played around the King as he ran a pensive hoof through it.

The haughty mare, nodded with supressed excitement, an excitement only visible in her brilliantly flaming eyes. "Yes, yes . . . then this ludicrous claim that Strokes is THE pony to look out for. Number 1, they say, HAH! Not to say he doesn't deserve to be round up, that Strokes is a trouble-maker and a radical, might do him some good to be thrown in the can, but I didn't know he had insighted riots and the like." Bellatrix dropped her imperious tone, and asked her friend quite candidly. "These . . . accusations, they aren't true, are they Rudaford?"

The stallion straightened himself and frowned meaningfully at her. "I haven't a clue Bellatrix. It's frightening though, to think something like that could even be concieved. Why in Equestria would Strokes be trying to start a revolt or oust the Princess."

Bellatrix shook her head, slowly. With a tentative movement she lifted her bishop to take Rudaford's knight. "Well . . . if it's true, he desrves what he gets."

Rudaford nodded, taking the bishop with his queen. "It'll be an interesting game."

 :I (What the hay!?!) Shard only got a glimpse of the stallion as he ran by. (What was wrong with him?) The sudden appearance of a seemingly mad pony was quite bewildering to Shard, who was now quite awake without help from the coffee.

He sat alone, but a few tables away, a conversation that particularly interested him was occuring. (They do have a point. All these strange occurrences...) Shard watched the pair from the corner of his eye. He was only catching tidbits of their conversation. (There are rumors about Strokes planning a revolt? What!?) His coffee was now on the table, half empty. He had set it down after the gossip started. It seemed the pair a few tables away were knowledgeable in their gossip unlike he. He usually didn't care too much about it, but he was interested now. (Strokes... Green Strokes. Is he behind this madness? But... I doubt it would be, considering... No. He wouldn't work with someone like that.)

Range,Price, and Crimson had only caught a glimpse of the strange blur running past them and quickly jumped away at the sight of a speeding madman.
<Crimson> Whoa, whoa,whoa, WHOA, what the hay!?... *He looks to the ground to notice something red. He hummed to himself as he triggers his magic and it's just as he thought: Blood. It starts to form a small, crimson sphere and then it fell back to the ground. * What in the name of Equestria's going ON here?
<Range> ... Never thought I'd see the day a psychopathic stallion run down the streets. *She said, sounding a bit worried*
<Price> U-Uhm, you're not thinking of... Following him, are you?
Range and Crimson stayed silent,bewildered by the recent events that have taken place since they stepped foot into Canterlot. Price stood in front of them to check their expressions.
<Price> R-Right?
They simply starts to slowly walk off in the direction that the stallion went, passing Price and then started taking off at full speed.
<Price>  :I W-w-Wait a moment, come back! *He says as he frantically begins to pick up to their pace.*

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 12, 21:01:59
Range,Price, and Crimson had only caught a glimpse of the strange blur running past them and quickly jumped away at the sight of a speeding madman. . .

The stallion had already made unbelievable distance, keeping up his ludicrious speed and it seemed any hope of catching up to him was lost . . . Then he fell, falling full speed onto his pitiful face.

The instant his face hit the concrete several shadows flew around him, concealing sight for a second or two. When the abberant shadow passed, hoof was standing on his hooves again, wobbiling down the concrete . . . one, two, three steps and he crumpled to the ground once more.

Shard finished his coffee, and, figuring he wasn't going to find out any more information now that the two gossipers were now back into their game of chess, planned on leaving. The waitress had been pretty intent on ignoring Shard, much to his dismay. He shot her a glance, and she reluctantly came over and dropped the bill on the table without a word.
He picked it up and looked it over. He payed his two bits for the coffee and gave no tip. He got up and left, feeling the angry eyes of the mare on his back.

He stood on the sidewalk and looked around. It seemed that several ponies were still talking of the crazy stallion who had just whizzed by a little while ago.

Quote from: PPBG on 2012 Dec 12, 21:34:56
Shard finished his coffee, and, figuring he wasn't going to find out any more information now that the two gossipers were now back into their game of chess. . .

"GET YOUR NEWSPAPERS, GET YOUR NEWSPAPERS. HEADLINES SAY: STROKES A MENANCE, STROKES WANTED FOR RABBLE-ROUSING, PLOTTING TO OUST THE PRINCESS, ENCOURAGING RIOTS AND DANGEROUS RADICAL OPPINIONS. GET YOUR PAPERS!"

The new's stallion nodded towards Shard. "Want a paper, sir? Only a bit!"

Silver had been enjoying himself, studying the rubble sample he collected from the building, and sipping some morning tea as a few potions just finished warming up in the beaker, when a pony ran by with incredible urgency - Silver's eyes practically spun through the sockets attempting to keep up with his amazing speed. Whatever this pony was running for - or from - was of immense importance. Electing to pursue him, if he could keep up, Silver swiftly stowed his items within his saddle-bags, and threw his travelling cloak in as well.

To....wherever with the guards, I have to find out what this is about - maybe Ms. Glory will find it important...

After dodging into a back-alley to avoid being noticed, Silver spread his thin wings and got a running start before jumping his hardest into the air and flapping frantically, gaining speed as he ascended. With his frail form, this was quite a task, but the urgency of the matter outweighed the costs. Before long, he had gained altitude, and was gliding swiftly over the Canterlot streets, his sharp eyes constantly darting from one pony to another, trying his utmost to find this mysterious pony. Before long, he noticed the pony passed out, and lying in the street. Swiftly descending, Silver landed next to him to check vitals before attempting to discover any wounds that need tending to.

(A paper? About Strokes? Let's see how tall the tales are today!) Shard walked over to the newspaper vendor. He levitated a bit near the vendor and took a paper.  "Thank you, Mr."  (:

Quote from: Link on 2012 Dec 12, 21:43:40
Silver had been enjoying himself . . .

The brown stallion flailed blindly. "Get-off'a mee! Don't, don't touch me." His hoofs were weak as grass blades in a soft breeze. "I-I, let me, let me go, don't touch me."

The stallion's eyes weren't focusing on Link's face, and his pupils were dilated and milked over. Then he went ridgid and a horrible grimace came across his face. "Fine, fine I've failed, you've gotten me. BUT you can't stop the truth, you can't, stop, the . . . truth." And the stallion's eyes rolled into his head.

* * *

The terrible glare of refracted armor glinted across Link's face. And a very familiar face strutted forward . . .  Captain Ress White-sword, looking as well as he had the first day he had spotted Link caught Link's eye. His face slowly turned into an 'O'
"YOU! GUARDS, GUARDS." He blew a shrill whistle and pulled out his sword. "HOLD IT!"

With a gasp of surprise at the turn of events, Silver ran for his life from the guards, once again gaining a running start before attempting to take off. As he gained height, Silver withdrew a partially finished potion from his bag, tossing it down into the street towards the guards with precision aim, just barely leaving Right Hoof out of the way of harm.

As the fragile glass container crashed into the ground before the advancing guards, the glass shattered, firing small pieces of glass across the smooth walkway stones, making it nigh-on impossible to walk in the area. The potion itself, being unfinished, let out a violent cloud of red smoke, thick and bellowing. Although the gas was harmless, it served as an excellent cover for gaining height. Desperately hoping to get away before it cleared, Silver flew with all his might as far away as possible, heading for any kind of dark corner here he could hide.

Range and the others hulted to the sound of a Guard's whistle blowing. Range facehoofed and stuttered as she spoke for a moment.
<Range> I-j-ju-... WHERE ARE WE IN, COLTROIT? >:O Everywhere I step there's another freaking crime or some other crazy thing going on and the next thing you know somepony get's shot.
<Crimson> *Snickers* Funny, but the blood trails down there... shoooould we interfere ooooor...?
<Range> Suuuuuuure, why not? *She said as the 3 of them follows over to the Guard* And meanwhile we could waist daylight having to be questioned for, oh I don't know, an hour?
<Crimson> Beats just wandering around aimlessly.

Quote from: Link on 2012 Dec 12, 22:46:58
With a gasp of surprise at the turn of events. . .

"GET BACK HERE!" An angry voice just a few feet behind Link shouted forth. The captain was still on Link's tail, a small flowering of red was growing across his front right cuff. Magnificent wings spread to their full width pushed the captain along with Link, he wasn't able to catch Link, his armor prevented such speed . . . but he was doing well with keeping him only a few feet ahead. No other guards had followed, yet.

"You and your little 'BAND'  have gotten away from me before, not this time."

* * *

Down on the street the cloud had cleared and alot of injured ponies were hopping around with injured hooves, several guards included. One took up the bellow. " Ponies! Halt, HALT! Everypony move 10 meters away from this point. GUARDS, form ranks, push back the civilians. "

He nodded towards the brown stallion. "Let's clear this glass and get Right Hoof to the Palace."

"Professor?"

Feather looked up from his papers, rubbing his strangely moistened eyes.  "Hm?  Oh, hello Beaker?"

"You... were... were you... are you all right, Professor?"

The researcher blinked a moment, thinking of the vision that passed through his mind.  A vast field, littered with the fallen, shadows everywhere, lidless eyes of Sun and Moon peering down eternally, ranks upon ranks of mindless husks that were once ponies, more puppets than creatures of their own, everywhere the devastation of war and horrid misuse of magic, the death of wisdom.

"...I am all right, Beaker.  Thank you."

The intern gave the pony another worried look before motioning as if to return to his studies.

"Beaker?"

"Yes, Professor?"

"...what is peace worth?"

The intern looked at the researcher with a raised eyebrow.  "Professor?"

The pony sighed and shook his head.  "Nothing."

It's not my department.  Just build the projects.  Just research the technology.  Once the projects are deployed, who cares what happens with them?  It's not my responsibility.

He gripped the sides of his chair until the skin under his coat turned white, though he didn't realize it.

It's not my department.  It's not my responsibility.

With desperation to escape, Silver gained as much height as he could, before going into a swift dive to gain more speed; his light frame easily gliding along the wind, when it blew at all.

Don't look back - if you look back, he'll catch you...Don't look back....

Knowing that he couldn't possibly lead them to Ms. Glory's home, he made a swift turn just in front of a building, hoping the guard captains' momentum would at least slow him down. After gaining more height, Silver flew over the walls of Canterlot, and nosedived straight into the forest. As he flew among the familiar tree-tops, he seemed to slip in and out of sight as he gracefully flew through the tangled mass of branches; getting deeper and deeper into the wood every moment.

A flurry of wind and feathers interrupted the relative peace of the library. A dust-brown pegasus mare dressed in a fine blue uniform bolted through the front door. Her eyes swept the occupants, landed on Majem, and the closed as she drew herself up. "Urgent message for a Majem of Ponyville, courtesy of Royal Courier service." She spoke loudly with authority and pride, ignoring the standard expectation of hushed voices for the library.

Reaching into her bag, she drew a out a letter sealed with silver wax and marked with a whirlpool.


******

A gray pegasus stallion sharply dressed in an official-looking navy uniform flew through the streets of Canterlot. He nervously checked his watch from time to time as he circled like an eagle in an updraft. Eventually the enchanted charm he carried pointed to the scene of chaos Silver had created. He glanced at the letter marked with a bubbling flask and squinted through the slowly dispersing red mist. Once he spotted the guards and what looked like some sort of police action he flapped away rapidly. However, a gray streak caught his eye. He spotted blur just as it disappeared into the forest. Was that the pony who the guard were looking for? It mattered not, he had his duty, and he was running short on time now. Closing his wings, he dove back down to street level to fly along the path until he reached the forest. There, he began searching for the recipient of his letter.

"Whoah, wha?!" Majem shouted and jumped up, frightened by the Courier's sudden appearance. He turned around, breathed heavily and blinked rapidly for a while before calming down, realizing what just happened.

"I am Majem of Ponyville." He responded and saw her retrieve a letter from her bag with his cutiemark on. "And that's my cutiemark!" He said happily and showed her his cutiemark before levitating the letter towards himself.

After some time, Silver collapsed beneath a maple tree, his thin frame rapidly expanding and contracting as he tried his best to catch his breath and relax. As he sat down panting, he worried for the safety of the mysterious pony.

I hope I didn't get him in anymore trouble than he already is...

Before beginning to resume his examinations of the debris from the apartment, he looked inside his saddle-bags and frowned with annoyance at the loss of his potion.

Such a pity I had to throw that at him, it was nearly finished too. I just hope the glass didn't hurt anyone too badly...

With a gasp for air, he leaned his head back onto the trunk of the tree, and closed his eyes, attempting to get some rest in the forest, knowing his chances were slim and limited for getting back into Canterlot during the day.

Quote from: PPBG on 2012 Dec 12, 21:47:38
(A paper? About Strokes? Let's see how tall the tales are today!) Shard walked over to the newspaper vendor. He levitated a bit near the vendor and took a paper.  "Thank you, Mr."  (:

He walked over to a bench to read in peace. He heard a clamor down the road, but he payed no head to it. Shard read the headlines, though he already knew what they said. The newspony had been yelling them after all.

The courier mare saluted to Majem as he collected the letter. She then jumped to a stiff attention, eyes locked ahead. She said no more, standing bluntly in the middle of the library.


*****
The second courier followed the glow of the locator charm as he flew just above the tree tops. His eyes landed on a group of ponies, but none bore the correct cutiemark. Moving on, he at last spotted a grayish shape. The charm began to vibrate, and the courier's eyes locked on to the pony below. Tucking his wings, he plummeted to the ground to land heavily in front of Silver. He stood tall and proud as he folded his wings and announced himself in a booming voice.

"Urgent message for Silver Flask of..." He paused and glanced at the letter. There was no listed location. "O-of Equestria. Courtesy of the Royal Courier Service." He pulled a letter out of his bag, the silvery wax seal catching the mid-day light.

Silver's eyes opened wide at the courier's voice, and he frantically jumped into the air, alert and looking nervously around the area for any sign of the guards or their captain. As he recovered from the shock of being awoken, he gently took the letter from the messenger, giving a quiet "Thank you." as he took the letter.

Opening it in his hooves, Silver began to read it's contents, eyes occasionally darting around, keeping an eye out for the guards.

After finishing, he closed up the letter and stowed in into his saddle-bags.

"Tell her I'll be there, and thank you again." With that, Silver dashed into the forest, seeming to disappear among a thick net of trees.

((and stars, are you sure your characters followed Silver, across the rooftops of Canterlot, over the walls, and into Whitetail Wood and the surrounding area? I just seems unlikely they followed him that distance on foot. However, if somehow they did, I'll see if I can find a way for Silver to acknowledge them.))

Majem read the letter carefully, then looked up to the mailmare with a smile. "I'll be there. Thanks." He said as he put the letter away in his bag.
"Trusted allies, huh?" He thought to himself as he looked around the library again. "Where could they be?"

Ryo walked out the small room and towards Majem

" hello there wasn't sure if we would meet again, not that I would have blamed you"

((sorry working from a phone so yea my text will all be in colour for now))

(( Just got back from Exams @.@ Lol, sorry Link, I think didn't read those posts thoroughly enough. I can just go back and rewrite that post. ))

((No problem, it just sounded strange that your group could follow that quickly... lol))

Majem chuckled a bit at Ryo's remark. "Heh, wouldn't want to miss out on an adventure."
"Oh, by the way, Silver and I visited the lady who distracted the guard captain for us. I just received a letter from her. She wants us to meet her for dinner." He looked into his bag and continued. "I should probably burn this letter, just in case, huh?"

"oh I see so our savour yesterday has invited us to a meal, well I'd be happy to attend, and perhaps gain some more information, and I'm sure our feathered friend would like to attend also"Ryo give a little head tilt to the small room where the others are
"and it may be safest to dispose of the letter, especially if what is being warned is true"  

Majem retrieved the letter from his bag and handed it over. "Do you know any fire magic, perhaps? I'm not really skilled with that element."

"I'm afraid not, I'm only capable of using one element type and sadly its not fire"

Majem sighed a little and his horn began to glow. "Guess this'll do too, then." As he said that, his mane turned into water and he moved the letter through his water mane. The paper became wet and the text was now unreadable. Majem threw the wet paper away, while his hair turned back and was unnoticeably shorter than before with a few black spots which stand out on his white hair.
((It's still pretty early, isn't it? Should we head out already?))

((I dont see why not though I dont know if Tiger wants to react to all thats happening))

"Cool!" Falliver the parakeet said all of a sudden from behind Majem. "So your hair's actually made out of water? Can I swim in it?"

Majem turned around to face the parakeet and chuckled a bit. "Not really. I keep an outward flow in my water form to prevent any and all pollution from staying in my body after turning back. You could try, but I doubt it'd work."

The courier mare stared firmly ahead as Majem and Ryo discussed the letter. She didn't even blink as the bright green bird started to speak. She was well-trained. She saluted sharply and her wings popped open once Majem's answer was clear. "I will deliver your response at once. The Royal Courier Service thanks you for your patronage. Good day!" The mare then zoomed out the window once more.


*****
The stallion courier was unable to respond before Silver vanished, but he had his orders. Unfolding his wings, he took to the sky and made for the center of the grand city once more.

*****


Both courier ponies set down at the same time outside the Silver Manor. The housekeeper met them and sent them to the gardens. There they found Morning Glory tending her plants.

They both saluted, then the mare stepped forward. "Sir Majem accepts your request and will be in attendance."

The stallion followed suit. "Sir Silver Flask also will accept your request, milady."

Morning Glory nodded and from the bag nearby a small pouch was illuminated in green magic. She pulled out three gold bits for each messenger. "Very good. Thank you ma'am, sir." She offered each their tip and dismissed them with a wave of her hoof. Both accepted the money, saluted, and took off once more.

"Well, best we prepare to receive guests tonight. Featherdust! Please alert the kitchen we will be hosting dinner for my guests." Morning Glory dusted off her hooves and went to prepare for the evening.

Kai arrives at the royal academy of magic

"Right I should be able to find my papers, probably left them here"
Kai heads in, expecting the academy to be empty during this time the students on break in this golden week of education 

(( Doing a backtrack of events @.@ ))
Range and Crimson, though they tried, Silver seemed to vanish before they knew he was already long gone. Range scratched her head as she ultimately gives up after a long search.
<Range> Say, Crimson, do you think it's too late to move back to Heliopolis? Starting to think it was probably better for us there than here...
<Crimson> I don't blame you, but this is actually the worst I've seen Equestria in 16 years, the very day we came here. It's still pretty amazing, but things are just a bit more dangerous. Besides, what the hay are you so worried about? You're packing a phillos-
Range spoke out before Crimson could speak
<Range> Hold that thought; I left the stone in a safe place at home. Thinking it's a bad idea for me to carry it around everywhere. Besides, I'm already getting suspicion from guards alone and the last thing I need is a bounty. Anyways... What do we do about that strokes fellow? Surely we aren't the only one's who wants to know what happened, are we?
Price finally catches up to the both of them, panting but was close enough to hear Range. Crimson and Range turn around to the exhausted changeling to give him their attention.
<Price>Tha-That would be a good question. Maybe we can go round town and... *Pant* Excuse me for a moment.
Price sits down on the nearby bench and takes a deep breath.
<Price> Ah... As I was saying, we could perhaps TRY to ask  for what anypony would know, but I doubt anybody would be a reliable source.
Crimson mumbles a tad bit.
<Crimson> Worth a try... Anyways, how about back at the site of the burning; maybe somepony's there that would know.
Crimson  started  taking off, back to the burning site as Range and Price follow behind.
<Range> Yooooou're the boss, chief.

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Dec 15, 05:27:52
Majem turned around to face the parakeet and chuckled a bit. "Not really. I keep an outward flow in my water form to prevent any and all pollution from staying in my body after turning back. You could try, but I doubt it'd work."

"Falliver, it's not nice to swim in other ponies' hair," Shofter said.

"Aw, okay  :c "

"A pretty lively bird you have there, miss. Where did you find it?"
Majem looked over at Ryo and smiled a little. "Should we get going?"

"She's from Galloping Gorge. Bought her from a stall one day when I was still in Vanhoover," Shofter said.

"Indeed just give me one moment"Ryo walks back into the room for a moment where he holds a private conversation with Sara
"Sara, I'm sorry to say it might be best for you not to get to involved until we know what's going on""wait what, Ryo I want to hel"

"I'm aware but face it when it comes to dealing with the government you've got a clean slate and I don't, besides Kai will worry about you and he would kill me for dragging you to trouble"

"f fine then BUT you had better contact me"Ryo gives Sara a small card
"Don't worry I will trust me"
Ryo then heads out the room to rejoin the others
"Aright then, lets meet the players"

"Players, huh? What a carefree lifestyle you got. Do you think this is a game?" Majem said, obviously annoyed by Ryo's comment.
"But I guess we could move now. If I received a letter, Silver should've gotten one too. I hope he didn't run into any trouble."

"well it makes things more interesting than treating something like this normal, but don't mind my mentality, let's just say it's more piece than anything"Ryo begins to walk off

"Wait wait! I don't understand! What do we have to do!?" Falliver said rather frantically.

Shard read the newspaper.(Strokes? No... no. Would he ever work for somepony like that? ...not without knowing... I hope.) He pursed his lips and then settled on going to see what the clamor earlier was about. He didn't assume it to be anything big. He just wanted something else to put his mind on. (Defamation against the Princesses!? ...I don't know what to believe.)

The entire team seemed scattered, each pony, including Price, went out to ask questions and see what dirt they could dig up. Crimson Sees over to the news stand, something new popped up already and goes over and lays one bit down by the stand  and picks up a paper before he leaves. He starts reading over and sighs ultimately before even making past the 1st paragraph
<Crimson> Well this whole thing is moving on rather quickly; not even a full day and already a new paper regarding Strokes...
Crimson found a bench nearby to relax and further read in on the article.

Majem laugh a little at Falliver's remark. "Nothing. We're just going to have dinner with somepony. You'd better be on your best behaviour, though. Our host isn't just anypony, she's lady Morning Glory of the Silver Estate." Majem explained, as if they were known all over Equestria, but he himself never heard of her before all of this. But neither did he know the other three ponies involved in all of this.

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 18, 22:25:16
The entire team seemed scattered, each pony, including Price, went out to ask questions and see what dirt they could dig up. Crimson Sees over to the news stand, something new popped up already and goes over and lays one bit down by the stand  and picks up a paper before he leaves. He starts reading over and sighs ultimately before even making past the 1st paragraph
<Crimson> Well this whole thing is moving on rather quickly; not even a full day and already a new paper regarding Strokes...
Crimson found a bench nearby to relax and further read in on the article.

Shard hears a bit of what Crimson said as he walked by. ('already a new paper regarding Strokes...' He seems to have heard of Strokes before.) Shard stopped, turned, and slowly followed the stallion. Shard stood next to him. He leaned forward and said softly, "You've heard of Strokes before?!"

Crimson's ear perked up to the sound of another voice and turned his attention to Shard.
<Crimson> Afraid not, sir. All I know about Mr.Strokes is that he's... Well, Certainly the menace of the month, it seems. Pardon me for asking, but would know know anything about him?

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Dec 19, 07:13:50
Majem laugh a little at Falliver's remark. "Nothing. We're just going to have dinner with somepony. You'd better be on your best behaviour, though. Our host isn't just anypony, she's lady Morning Glory of the Silver Estate." Majem explained, as if they were known all over Equestria, but he himself never heard of her before all of this. But neither did he know the other three ponies involved in all of this.

"Oh boy, group dinners. With Falliver around, this should end well," Shofter said.
"Is that supposed to mean something?" Falliver said.
"Maybe, maybe not," Shofter said rather smugly.

"Well, the dinner's just an excuse to get us there. It's all about this... Conspiracy! Still, don't do anything stupid, I don't want you kicked out of the place for bad behaviour or something like that."
Majem moved a hoof through his mane and sighed displeased. "Still don't like it."

"Id be careful how you word things, you never know who might be taking note, but alas its a rather strange turn of events and somthing definatly feels off about all of this"

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 19, 19:57:00
Crimson's ear perked up to the sound of another voice and turned his attention to Shard.
<Crimson> Afraid not, sir. All I know about Mr.Strokes is that he's... Well, Certainly the menace of the month, it seems. Pardon me for asking, but would know know anything about him?

Since Shard was a terrible liar while talking in ponyspeak, flat out lying was not an option. But not revealing everything was, so he replied semi-truthfully,"I saw a plea of his in the newspaper..."

Crimson hummed and tapped a bit on his muzzle.
<Crimson> A plea? How recent? I've only read about him as of last night and hour before with the burning down of the building.

"There was something in the newspaper a little while ago... He wanted assistance to continue research he did." Shard replied. He stopped short on his thoughts though. (If I say I'm involved with this guy... Suspicious. I won't admit that I intended to join Strokes...)

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Dec 20, 11:41:36
"Well, the dinner's just an excuse to get us there. It's all about this... Conspiracy! Still, don't do anything stupid, I don't want you kicked out of the place for bad behaviour or something like that."
Majem moved a hoof through his mane and sighed displeased. "Still don't like it."

"Yessir! Will have best behaviour!" Falliver then put on a top hat and monocle and started talking like an englishman ovO

Crimson Chuckles at the thought of Strokes needing help
<Crimson> Well. I doubt he'll get any help soon. With whatever the heck he did, it's starting to cause a bit of panic in Canterlot.

"Ah, bu-n-n-never mind that." he stuttered nervously while cutting off his objection. "Mm. I'd like to know exactly what he did myself." This was true. Shard did. (Very much so... This pony seems to think Strokes is and was a menace. That... I definitely better not say anything about my 'real' interest.)

<Crimson> I mean, somepony's gotta know. In all honesty, I haven't been in Equestria for over 2 years and never have I heard of this "Strokes" pony. I'm just going around to see who knows what because I find it a bit suspicious that there wasn't any efforts from the fire brigade to remove that fire...

"Right, shall we get going, then?" Majem asked as he slowly made his way towards the door.

As Kai wonders around the academy he wonders why some of the corridors are lit, while the school is meant to be out

"hmm quite the odd circumstances, lights on but nopony home hmm"
Kai glances around
"Hello anypony here"
His response appears to have fallen on death ears though the sound echoes through the hallow halls as he carries on the sounds of his hooves echoing also thought the hall

---

"I'm way ahead of you, if you don't hurry you'll get left behind"

"Do you even know where to go?" He said as he hurried to catch up with Ryo.

"I would assume the Silver estate, though It might be a bit early in the day for dinner"
Ryo laughs as he walks along giving chance for the others to catch up

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 20, 21:28:45
<Crimson> I mean, somepony's gotta know. In all honesty, I haven't been in Equestria for over 2 years and never have I heard of this "Strokes" pony. I'm just going around to see who knows what because I find it a bit suspicious that there wasn't any efforts from the fire brigade to remove that fire...

"Mmmh." Shard murmurs in agreement.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Dec 23, 17:42:43
"I would assume the Silver estate, though It might be a bit early in the day for dinner"
Ryo laughs as he walks along giving chance for the others to catch up

"So, we're free for a couple of hours. What should we do to kill some time?"
((We could meet up with the other interested ponies  ovO Also, sorry for the late response. I've been reading Galvin's story "Kind Equestrius"))

Quote from: Chirp on 2012 Dec 23, 19:33:24

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2012 Dec 23, 17:42:43
"I would assume the Silver estate, though It might be a bit early in the day for dinner"
Ryo laughs as he walks along giving chance for the others to catch up

"So, we're free for a couple of hours. What should we do to kill some time?"
((We could meet up with the other interested ponies  ovO Also, sorry for the late response. I've been reading Galvin's story "Kind Equestrius"))

"OOH! I know! We could play a game!" Falliver said excitedly.

<Crimson> Heh, anyways, the name's Crimson Blood sir. Suppose I'll be on my way; I don't want to be wasting anypony's time. Nice talking to you, by the way.

Crimson began to take his leave with the newspaper.  Elsewhere, Range and Price both decided to look together... however, the both of them weren't entirely as focused, discussing other matters.

<Price>Now, what was that project you have been researching again? I've heard a few stories from you brother, but what exactly are you doing?
<Range> Ah yes, On my adventures to Tambala, I've actually came across some energy crystals; raw energy that acted as batteries for our ship. Lucky for me, several were left over and I took the opportunity to study them. After about a month later, up to today, I've came up with a hypothesis. You're familiar with Mana shaping, right?
<Price> Not... So much.
<Range> Well, it's exactly as it sounds : The art of shaping and forming mana, which works in shaping it into certain elements and types, whether it be defensive, offensive, any kind works. It's a basic principle in spell casting, but I think I've found a way to implement that into alchemy. I've found out that the raw energy is a form of mana called Ezzyrite, a focused lightning element that's found normally in the more accomplished lightning elemental. Listen here- this is where it gets interesting- Now, If I focus the energy within the crystals and circulate the energy, I think I may be able to transform mana into a physical item!

Range sounds a bit excite and bounces around Price, who seems to giggle at Range.

<Price> But wouldn't that be dangerous? Touching electricity?
<Range> Naturally, yes, but the rules applies differently to the caster who decides to cast lightning spells! This is amazing, yes,yes,yes!
<PRice> Haha, calm down. Why so excited all of the sudden; what's so special?

Range stopped bouncing around and trotted backwards, trotting in front of Price.
<Range> The big deal here Iiiiis, that this will be the first Transmutation of mana and I will be the first pony to ever do so; I will be the first Alchemist to ever succeed in the transmutation of mana into a physical form!

Range continues on jumping for joy and Price just smiles and snickers under his coat. Range really doesn't seem to care if anypony's looking at her.

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 23, 21:59:29
<Crimson> Heh, anyways, the name's Crimson Blood sir. Suppose I'll be on my way; I don't want to be wasting anypony's time. Nice talking to you, by the way.

Crimson began to take his leave with the newspaper.  Elsewhere, Range and Price both decided to look together... however, the both of them weren't entirely as focused, discussing other matters.

"Ah, nice to meet you. I'm Glacial Shard. Fare well~" Shard nodded slightly and smiled.

"A game? I'm sorry, but I'm not in the mood for playing games right now." Majem said and looked around frantically. "And I'd rather not be outside too much, either. I do NOT feel much for having another encounter with the guards."

"Oh, alright then," Falliver said with a bit of a frown.

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 23, 21:59:29
Range continues on jumping for joy and Price just smiles and snickers under his coat. Range really doesn't seem to care if anypony's looking at her.

(Un)fortunately for Range, somepony was looking. A blue unicorn with white hair was attracted to the jumping. He looked a little confused at first, but this pony had an aura of joy and happiness. Majem smiled and walked over to them. He turned around and looked at Falliver. "How about we make some new friends?"

"Hello! How are you today?" Majem said with a chuckle. He knew the answer already, no sad pony would be jumping like that.
((I see the RP hasn't been doing much, so I hope you guys don't mind me doing this.))

Range pauses her hyperactive bounching a moment and turns to the new stallion before them and smiles sweetly. "I'm just peachy, thank you! What about yourself?"

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 03, 20:22:53

Quote from: The Stars on 2012 Dec 23, 21:59:29
Range continues on jumping for joy and Price just smiles and snickers under his coat. Range really doesn't seem to care if anypony's looking at her.

(Un)fortunately for Range, somepony was looking. A blue unicorn with white hair was attracted to the jumping. He looked a little confused at first, but this pony had an aura of joy and happiness. Majem smiled and walked over to them. He turned around and looked at Falliver. "How about we make some new friends?"

"Hello! How are you today?" Majem said with a chuckle. He knew the answer already, no sad pony would be jumping like that.
((I see the RP hasn't been doing much, so I hope you guys don't mind me doing this.))

"OK! Making new friends is fun!" Falliver chirped excitedly, then the light green parakeet turned to Range.

"Hi! I'm Falliver. Who are you? I haven't seen you before! We should be friends! Do you like fruit punch? I love fruit punch! Not punching fruits, I mean the drink fruit punch! And there was this one time I accidentally spilt my fruit punch but Shofter here gave me HER fruit punch instead and she was so kind to me unlike how she is to everypony else!" Falliver said.

"Leave me out of this, Falliver..." Shofter said, but Falliver didn't listen.

"You know, there was this one time we built a huuuuge snow pony! And then we pelted it down with snowballs! By the way, what's your name? That's a nice name!" Falliver asked Range ovO

Range blinked a little bit, noticing She never even gave the bird an answer, causing she and Price to both giggle a tad bit. "He's quite the chatty one, isn't he?" Price spoke out, still under his disguise.
"Thaaaaaat he is, but I'm Range Conjure little guy! What's your name?" She asked him back.

((Falliver's a she...))

"I'm Falliver! I already said I'm Falliver! And this is Shofter! She's my bestest bestest pally EVER!" Falliver said.

"Falliver, I told you to leave me out of this," Shofter said with a stern look.

"You know very well that you want more friends, you're just not admitting it~!" Falliver squealed.

"Wha- Falli!" Shofter shouted.

"See! She even has a nickname for me. That's why we're bestest best pals! And I hope to be YOUR bestest best pal too!" Falliver said as she looked Range in the eye ovO

(( @.@ Sorry... Forgotten, but I don't know if Parakeets  have vocals depending on gender to be honest XD))
"Heh, Quite the charmer she is." Range says as Price nods.
"Ah, well, I suppose I should introduce myself as well. My name is simply, 'Price'. It's nice to make your acquaintance."

"Hi Price! Nice name! Why're ya named Price? That's a nice reason! Let's be bestest best pals too!" Falliver said. Shofter just rolled her eyes.

Price chuckled a little bit. "You have quite a nice companion Ms. Shofter, but she seems a little... Chatty at best, heh."
"Nonetheless, it's nice to meet the 3 of you. We're just... Just... Wait, weren't we supposed to be doing something, Price?"
Price laughed aloud and turned to Range. "Yes, Remember? Your brother said we should split up and search for answers on Strokes... Which, The both of us are just sticking together and just talking trivial talks."
"Trivial!?" Range said, surprised. "Oh come on, I'm soon to be the Alchemist to make the first transmutation of Mana ever; That's far FROM trivial!"

Quote from: The Stars on 2013 Jan 04, 02:04:36
Price chuckled a little bit. "You have quite a nice companion Ms. Shofter, but he seems a little... Chatty at best, heh."

Quote from: The Stars on 2013 Jan 04, 02:04:36
nice companion Ms. Shofter, but he seems a little

Quote from: The Stars on 2013 Jan 04, 02:04:36
he

(( :/ ))

"Right... Falliver, why are we here again?" Shofter asked.

"Because we're making friends! Making friends is AWESOME!" Falliver chirped.

(( XD I swear I hit an  S before I posted that... I must be tired @.@ I'm terribly sorry Tiger; I'm kinda hard at listening right now.))
Price rolled his eyes at Range "Right, sorry... Anywho, before We forget, does anypony here happen to know a tad bit about Mr.Strokes? We came here hoping to find out what happened to that building earlier."

Majem knew Falliver would be rather... excited for talking, so he kept quite during their conversation. His ears perked up when he heard Strokes' name. He didn't expect to have this conversation turn to Strokes and he expected even less to hear it come from the strangers.

Majem pushed his hoof against Price's mouth and looked around to make sure no guards were around before he spoke. "That name is rather... delicate... at the moment. And we don't want to attract unwanted attention right now." Majem removed his hoof from Price's mouth and continued, still looking around for guards. His ears were still perked up, his legs prepared to run and his horn ready to cast his trademark spell.
"We CAN give you more information; in fact, we are going to a meeting as of now. But know this: if you get involved, prepare to run. It won't be any colt ride; this is one of those things you won't be thanked for, if you get it dug up. Ponies might even hate YOU for it."

"I sound like that purple unicorn even though I still know next to nothing." He thought to himself.

"I STILL don't get what's going on. Why do all the ponies think that pony burned down an entire building?" Falliver said.

"He didn't. He requested for ponies to gather there, in an ad in the newspaper. And the place is burned down, now. He didn't burn it down, somepony wanted to burn HIM down."

"Technically," Range butted in," We're already somewhat hated. I mean, how do I put this? Ok, so, apparantly, I got into a little fix about a few days ago, when I finally came back to Equestria - I won't go too far into details- , But apparently Large Scale Transmutations are rather alerting to the guards... That and I ah... Actually I shouldn't say the last part, but now the guards are, how you say, unfriendly? Hehe" Range nervously chuckled.
"But anyways, I'm already somewhat unlikable, but, I guess that's the downside of being an adventure. It's just what I've grown to love and I won't let anything sway me otherwise." Range finished off, smiling. Price looked down at her with a smile as well.
"And I already owe a great debt to her, so, I suppose I can take a bit of hatred and ridicule for her sake."

Range catches wind of what Falliver said and turned to the little parakeet . "What I don't understand that if there was a fire, where was the fire brigade when all this happened? I think this incident has much more to do with than just Strokes, if he does happen to have anything to do with the fire."

(( XD Sorry on the late response. Trying to think of something but my mind is kinda slow working on 2 posts at the same time :T ))

"It is a pretty bizarre case we're working on." Majem sighed.

Ryo notices the two had wondered off and quickly follows ((better explination than none for my absance ))

"Hmm is it truly such a great idea to run off, honsetly this is what I get for not paying atention"

Majem laughed silently when Ryo approached. He had forgot about him. "Yes, stay alert, friend."

"So the WHOLE building burned down right? Like, the whole building. If the fire brigade had been contacted there would at least be the foundation of the building. But the building is completely destroyed, which would mean the fire brigade didn't come for some reason. We have some questions to ask them I suppose," Shofter said.

"Doubt they'll give an answer. And if you persist, they'll call the guards. You can go and see for yourself, but I just told you how it'll go." Majem said and smirked. More out of annoyance than anything else.

"So that means we can't do anything. If we ask anyone, they won't tell us and would call the guards. Out of hope. Case closed," Shofter said before walking off.

"Shofter, where're you going!? There MUST be some hope for this!" Falliver said, upset at Shofter leaving, but the unicorn continued walking off without hearing a word.

Majem walked over to Shofter and placed a hoof around her neck. "Ah, but that's why it's so interesting, isn't it? The mystery, the danger, the outcome. Come on, stay with us; help us solve this." He said. His voice sounded like it begged for her to stay, but he tried to stay cheery.

"And what for? Just an unsolvable mystery. There's no point in trying. No point in any of this. I don't even know why I haven't moved back to Vanhoover yet," Shofter grumbled.

Ryo laughs to himself "Unsolverble, Ha such a thing doesnt exist, besides even if we dont have the mainstream awansers, that doesnt mean we have no leads, there a few paths we can take"

"The adventure awaits!"

"Yeah, adventure! Can't we stay with them? Pleeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaseeee?" Falliver asked with big, adorable eyes.

Shofter looked at Falliver for a while. "Alright, but only because Falliver is here. I won't care for the rest of you," Shofter said, still having a stern look. "Which way do we go?"

(( XD and all this happens while I tried to get the livestream up... Which I will never again do.))

Range yawns a bit, having arrived here at night. "Well, beats me. Up to you guys I guess..."
"Are you well, Range?" Questioned Price.
"Yeah... Just a bit tired. Haven't slept since... I honestly can't remember; 2 days ago I think?"
Price raised a brow at Range. "2 days is a bit much to be a 'bit tired'. "

Majem smiled at Shofter's decision. "Glad you're still with us. But the plans haven't changed. We're going to a dinner party."

"indeed and thus far this is our better sourses of informanion or at least the start over nothing, otherwise we will look far wider than is needed"

((Livestream distractions  lol its affecting my posting and spelling))

((I know that feel.))

"Right. Dinner party. Let's go then," Shofter said as she walked ahead.

Falliver just seemed concerned. "Ohh, Falliver just never has any hope after what happened to her..."

"Then we'll have to make sure we solve this mystery." Majem said with a smirk.

"Heh, uhh, we'll meet you guys there in a moment. We gotta go find my brother first... wherever he-"
Range was cut short by a sudden voice creeping behind her.
"Right behind you." Crimson had said. Range jumped forward a few feet and made a small yelp, then turned around and gave Crimson a stern look.
"  :l Please don't do that again." Crimson and Price both laughed at Range, who just sighed and decided to climb up and rest down on Crimson's back.
"Let's just go.  :s " Range politely demanded as Crimson and Price followed Majem and the others, both still chuckling a bit.

"But what if we DON'T solve the mystery!?" Falliver said :s

"I thought Shofter was the hopeless one!' Majem said and laughed a little. "Don't worry. We'll find something."

Falliver forced a smile, but doubt could be seen in her eyes.

Her big, shiny, adorable eyes ovO

(( XD This is getting nowhere soon soooo...  ovO ))

Range sped up to get in front of everypony and catch up between Softer and Majem. "So, you what do you 3-" She paused for a moment then looked up at Falliver. "Err, 4 think we'll dig up anyways? We've been here since last night and-" She pauses a moment to yawn and then shakes her head. "-And we haven't found jack diddilly squat."

((three Im still there  X3 Im just being lazy))

Majem chuckled. "Five, actually. We did manage to dig up that this isn't normal. The guards are after us for looking at a burned-down building. That speaks for itself, does it not?" Majem scratched his ears as he paused to catch his breath. Majem seemed to be breathing pretty hard now, considering they were just walking. "I hope we get to lady Morning Glory, soon. I could use a good meal, haven't eaten since yesterday. Oh, and she's got more information she said. We'll begin the real investigation there, I guess."

Crimson chuckles a bit from behind. "Sounds like a plan!" Price, oddly enough, chooses to remain silent  the whole time.
"But  the guards are after you all because... You looked at a burned-down building? What?" Range asked, unsure of what she's hearing.

"Well thats a strange bit at least in my case, I just was wondering by dont live to far from the place, and somehow got involved buut who could pass up this big of a game"

Majem turned and looked at Range. "Exactly, and we're trying to figure out what's behind that."
He then turned towards Ryo and nodded. "Exactly. It's wonderful isn't it?"

"Indeed this is far more fun than my reaserch, traveling back and forth to the cold reagons kinda boring after a while"

Majem nodded. "Yes, I love my job, really but it gets boring when you fall into routine. I thought paying a visit to the Crystal Empire would be fun, but this adventure is close-by and pratically pulled me into it."

"The Crystal empire is a nice place..... in the light" Ryo laughs a bit at the end of his sentance

Shofter didn't say anything. Surprisingly, neither did Falliver ovO

The group had been happily chatting, when a very fine looking member of the pony-gentry 'bumped' into the centre of the group. He quickly bent over, as if injured then whispered quickly.  "You shouldn't be talking about Strokes so pointedly, do you know how dangerous that is? Listen, take my address, all of you split up and meet up there. WE have much to discuss and if you are blabbing about Strokes you probably already have guards on your tail." He tilted his head in a strange way. "Ah, there they are." He tilted his head slightly to a small wall surrounding a post-office. Indeed several guards were huddled in the shadows, half seen. 

  He grabbed at one of the groups' hooves. "Help me up, quickly, if it's thought I'm assisting you  . . . the whole thing will most surely fail, we need ponies on the INSIDE. So make sure you've lost your tails before you head to that warehouse." He whispered harshly pointing at a card he dropped on the ground. "Help me up and don't look at me again, unless you use angry or sceptical faces. Might be best to whisper about my rudeness, too."

Once some pony had helped him to his hooves, he shouted defiantly: "HOW DARE YOU, SIRS! WHY DON'T YOU WATCH WHERE YOU ARE TROUNCING ABOUT. GOOD DAY, SIRS!" He pushed through the group forcibly, putting his nose to the air and trotting off in the direction the guards were huddled.

Shard lingered nearby; he was still interested at the mention of Strokes. But he tried to linger in a way as not to attract attention. He heard some-pony shout and he looked that way. Shard was slightly confused, but the classy language being used wasn't out of the ordinary -nor was the way the stallion held up his head. Shard's thoughts wandered back to why he decided to live in Canterlot. He sighed and thought, (It's easier to get to work this way.)

"How about next time you pay attention to where you're going instead of showing everypony your neck. We don't want to see it!" Majem yelled at the stallion walking away from them. "The nerve some ponies have." He muttered as he picked up the card and stashed it away.

"Come on, guys. Let's go." He said and disappeared around the corner where the guards at the post-office couldn't see him. Once out of sight, he slowed his pace for the others to catch up.
"What do you think?" Majem asked, nopony in particular.

"heh I think he's right, were to loud as a whole, and ive got some time to kill, so wondering off may not be a bad thing"

Majem's horn began to glow and the card he picked up earlier levitated in front of him as well as his notebook and a pencil. He quickly copied what was on the little card, then handed it over to Ryo. "Very well, you'll go see what that pony wants. I have to go meet up with Silver and Morning Glory." Majem turned around to face the other three ponies an continued. "I think it's best all of you go there as well. But don't forget, lose those guards first."

Majem called out for a passing cab, then looked back at the rest of the group. "Where shall we meet again?" He asked, ready to leave in his cab.
((Current Status: Being followed))

(( XD Now I'm the lazy bugger with sending posts. ))

Range and Crimson both think for a moment, then looks up to Majem. "You know, That's actually a good Question." Range said. "I haven't really quite gotten accustomed to this town yet; heck, I don't even remember my way back to the train station!"

Majem scracthed his chin for a moment and then suggested. "How about we meet up where we did before. You know, where I received a letter from that courier." He said, trying not to mention library in case some guards were overhearing their conversation.

"hmm alright I shall meet you back there, in the future best of luck to you"
Ryo takes the card and passes them another
"keep a hold of this It might be of some use"
and before Ryo expained what he meant by that he was walking off
("Right guards hmm how to lose these guys, hmm nah I won't use anything special this time")

((Did you just give me another card?))
Seeing Ryo leave, Majem hopped into his cab which left a second later. Majem didn't tell the driver to go to Morning Glory's place, but made sure he'd drive past. "I didn't think the guards were still following us. I guess I should be more paranoid from now on."

Shortly after, as the cab passed Majem's destination, he left some money in the cab, levitated his saddlebags on the sidewalk and cast his trademark spell. His body, now made of water, flowed out of the cab without the driver's notice; the cab disappeared around the corner a few seconds later. Once out of everypony's sight, Majem returned to normal. With his saddlebags levitating onto his back, he walked up to the building he and Silver have been to before; it felt a lot more familiar and inviting than last time. Majem made sure he looked presentable before he entered.
((Jumping ahead a little.))

((Yes sorry probaly should have made that a bit more clear also with one jump ahead deserves another  ovO))

A short while after Ryo had walked of and wondered away into a few darkened backstreats he knew fairly well, he disapeared from sight and became just another face in a crowd on the streets of canterlot, after some walking he headed to the location marked on the not given to him by the strainge pony a while back

(( @.@ I am clearly spacing out on my posts, aren't I? ))

Range and the others wander around town... And wander... And wander... Yep, it's official : they are genuinely lost. "wait a minute... Weren't we just here?" Range looked around at the same alley they've passed 3 times again. Looking around at the familiar sight, everpony groaned.
"Jeez, isn't there a map of this place SOMEWHERE to be found? We've been here since last night and we still don't know where we're going!"
"So, where do you suggest we all go now?" Price asked.
"Uh... You guys pick where, I'm done leading for right now."
Crimson nods as he starts backtracking their steps.. "Let's try this way." The two of them followed behind.

Majem brushed off the last bit of dust from his coat and entered the building in front of him. As he walked the way he and Silver went before, Majem laughed a little at last time and he smiled silly. Perhaps it was the change of scenery that made him so happy, but he wasn't sure himself.

Soon after he found number 624 and knocked on the door. "I wonder if Silver's here already."

Equestrian Calender & Canterlot Time :
The 7th Year of the return of the moon; The 8th of the 9th moon. Year 1874 of the Equestrian Empire.

  Evening had begun to roll around. The sun had moved into the open western portion of canterlot. Every day this occurence was magnificent, the strange shadows were always spectacular to see, for here in canterlot the sun struck buildings from below as well as from above. An unnatural sight for those unused to it, shadows seemed to twist around and almost dissapear at times, or pass into an unsuspecting pony's room causing them to laugh nervously when they recognized the strange occurence.

  It was also the brightest time of the day, oft-times unsuspecting ponies would look into the bright light of the sun and be blinded for a moment or two. . .

It was a beautiful sight, if not a little inconvenien; the Canterlot tourist were happy to prance about at this strange time gazing at the city-transformed. A magical hour. The tense atmosphere of the day seemed to die a-way slightly, smiles coming back to ponies faces, even through all the new problems that had arrisen, their city and days remained constant.


* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 16, 12:22:02
Majem brushed off the last bit of dust from his coat and entered the building in front of him. . . .

  A soft noise made itself apparent, then, the warm touch of pony breath could be felt on Chirp's back. Just behind him a pony with frantic, confused eyes and an untrimmed face was half-staring at Majem, half seeing nothing. A, once magnificient, white-fur lay adorn around his obsidian fur. Now the coat was stained with food, mud and grease and it smelled . . . dear goodness it smelt. Sweat and blood and dirt and mold, his coat a mass of disgusting odors that mingled together making a horrible perfume that Majem noticed he had smelt a bit before the strange aparation snuck up on him. This awful stench even permeated his mouth, he could taste the disgusting sting on his tongue.

The man stood there, continuing to half recognize Majem before he rattled out a crude uneven speech. "What . . . you, you a friend, yes? Yes. Yes, a friend." His eyes twitched and he beat his head with a hoof. "No, can't . . . I, it's hard to see . . ." He paused again, a soft moaning escaping his chapped lips. Majem could see the pony's stiff form, his sudden winces here and there, this pony was in pain.

"You, YOU HAVE TO HELP ME!" He hollered out, grabbing hold of Majem's hoof, suddenly. "PROBLEMS, PROBLEMS IN THE WORLD, no . . ." His voice came to a soft whisper. "Where did Green go . . . why did he leave us? Or did we leave him . . ." He shoof his head, nearly falling over, a nasty popping noise issued from the pony's legs. "Where did WE go?"


* * *

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 12, 11:02:48
A short while after Ryo had walked off. . .

The location - 277 W. Damimeal Drive - was besides the great aero-harbor. The site of the gigantic aero-crafts could be seen above the warehouse. The place . . . didn't look reputable, it looked like every-other warehouse around the area: a little run-down and smelling of strange spices and food-stuffs. A portion of the building looked like it had been part of a terrible fire, it had been blackened and quite a great deal of soot remained. The windows were all quite high-up, 15 odd feet above the ground floor and it wasn't able to look into the strange warehouse.

The true shock came from the silence around the building, every other building was bustling and teeming with sailors and dock-workers looking to finish the remainder of their duties, the 'bright-hour' was upon them and, as proclaimed by the princess, no pony with manual labor was to work during that magical hour, where the sun passed into every-pony's sight.

This building . . . was quiet, completely quiet.

 

"Woah!" Majem shouted as he felt somepony behind him. He jumped away from him and banged his shoulder against the wall. He quickly turned to face the pony behind him, only to be overthrown with disgust. Never in his wildest imagination would he expect such a filthy pony inside this building. It was a sad sight, but worse than that, his smell. Majem tried his best not to throw up.

As Majem tried to hold back the urge to throw up, the other pony began to ramble about friends and problems. Not exactly in a way to be understood, but the pony didn't seem to be able to think clearly. Majem worried he would collapse at any moment.

"I don't know where Green went. Listen, calm down, I'll take you to the hospital and we'll get you fixed up, alright?"

("Well can't exactly say this is where I wanted to be, but this is certainly interesting to say the least, but let's see what this is all about shall we")
Ryo glances around the area before entering making sure he was alone then goes in to the building and takes a glance around

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 20, 05:38:37
"Woah!" Majem shouted as he felt somepony behind him. . . .

The poor pony continued to bluster, his eyes filling with fear. "What - what? Green didn't leave we did, we were forced to. .  . Or maybe he left after we left, but I don't think so, I don't think Green left at all." His once-beautiful coat was brushing about in the breeze, the fur was matted together by slime and food-stuffs, corse and hard where once it must of been as smooth as a cloud.

The unicorn rubbed at his horn, it had begun to spark, the faeire-light of magic was beginning to sputter forth from his head. "But, but I do need help, I need to find us. Need to find us . . . US! We have to get back together, something is wrong, something is very, very wrong." He was shaking his unclean face fervently. "Wrong with the world, wrong with my brain. WRONG, WRONG, WRONG!"

The pony flailed about attempting to throw off whatever was assaulting him, or were they immaginery assaultants? His hoove came close to Majem, almost striking him, then the pony looked around his eyes completely glazed over, unseeing. "I have to get back, maybe he'll be walking the main street, maybe I'm missing him." He turned, moving back to the road, a cart sped by and he stopped in suprize.


* * *


 

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 20, 15:34:33
Ryo glances around the area before entering . . .

  The warehouse was completely silent, stacks of crates lay atop one-another . . . but no ponies, not even a warehouse guard. The soft chattering of the sailors outside was barely audible, but inside the warehouse there was no noise, no movement, no breeze, only slience.

("oh how interesting, no pony here yet  I was called here heh normally this would be a trap situation but we shall see, the game wouldn't be as fun without it now would it, ether way this is a point of interest")  
Ryo walks further into the warehouse 
"Any pony here,  If so there is little point in hiding, I could just use magic to find out"

"Wait, wait!" He said and hurried after the strange unicorn. When the unicorn stopped, Majem sat down in front of him, holding onto his shoulders.
"What's going on?"

Shard sighed as he had been browsing around stores and the streets, but with no more luck. The bright evening sky shone down as he slowly trotted home, defeated. He was still interested in learning more, but it seemed that it would have to wait another day.

Out on the streets of canterlot heading wondering around Sara looks around nervously and slightly lost as the streets light up

((throwing a curveball in here))

After a long, long time of searching, the group managed to wind up not in the place they expected, but in what seems to be a Hangar Factory. Range and Crimson both aggitatedly grunts, stomping their hooves on the ground and Price simply facehoofs.
"Where in the heck are we now!? Where do we go to buy a map to this freaking place? I feel like a little foal who just got lost at the mall."
"Oi... Where was it Majem told us to go to again?"
"... We forgot, didn't we?"
They both groan again and Price simply just whines.
"For a couple of adventurers, you honestly have the worst sense of direction known to sentient life."
"Hey, I don't see you giving out directions anytime soon, Cheese Legs."
"Oh how simply Crude, Miss Conjure." Price said, feeling quite insulted at Range's Reply.

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 20, 16:16:48
"Wait, wait!" He said and hurried after the strange unicorn. When the unicorn stopped, Majem sat down in front of him, holding onto his shoulders.
"What's going on?"

"Going on?" The excited pony was almost shouting now, his head still looking where the cart had speed by. "I'm going on to the main street, I can't miss him, if he comes and I'm not there? If he come . . . AND I'M NOT THERE!" He repeated, but the second statement he spoke as if in answer to the first.

The delusional pony shook his head again, swaying, almost falling. "I've to return, what, pony outside! No time, I might miss him."

And the pony attempted to rush away, down the empty streets, a few passerbys plastered themselves to the walls as he ran by, holding their noses at his devilish stench.

* * *

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 20, 16:16:07
"oh how interesting, no pony here yet . . .

The silence remained, the sounds of the sky-harbor muffled by the warehouse walls, no pony was here . . . that was certain.

* * *

Quote from: The Stars on 2013 Jan 22, 20:22:54
After a long, long time of searching, the group managed to wind up not in the place they expected. . .

The warehouse door lay quite ajar, and within the warehouse a pony the group recognized was snooping around, looking mighty shady.

"Hmm well this was a pointless endeavour, honestly if they wanted to waste time on this they have picked a foolish pony to annoy"

"well I'm here no sense in not looking around"

Ryo decides to wonder around the factory a tad just out of boredom or perhaps looking for a reason why this place was of significance to the going ones and the disappearance and hunt of Strokes, though he expected the most he would discover is what the warehouse was for and why perhaps there were burn marks on the building itself

"Oh, by Celestia.." Majem sighed and ran after him. Following him wasn't hard, the stench was nearly visible in the air and the ponies on the street showed clear signs of where he went, too.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 26, 11:18:40
"Hmm well this was a pointless endeavour . . .

It took Ryo a little time to examine the boxes, but each held strange objects and all seemed to be either weapons or some form of shielding. This was an arms warehouse. Just as Ryo was lifting a strange impliment, that seemingly wrapped around the head, and was in the shape of unicorn's horn . . . An earth pony stallion dashed into the large storage facility, a look of pure horror strung tight on his face. A nasty red blotchy patch, ran along his right face, the remaining burns of some fire.

"Who are you, sir? What in the five diamonds of Delmi are you doing here!? Can't you see this is a PRIVATE warehouse!? Come on, come along, we are going to the authorities!" The pony made several tentitive steps towards Ryo, with eyes that looked ready to burst with tears.


*  *  *

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 26, 11:46:49
"Oh, by Celestia.." Majem sighed and ran after him. Following him wasn't hard, the stench was nearly visible in the air and the ponies on the street showed clear signs of where he went, too.

The pony hadn't lead them anywhere extravagent, only the large main-street of Canterlot. In fact he had taken up post opposite the great capitol building, looking on intently as though is life may depend on it. "Still not here . . . not here." He whispered to himself, but despite his nervous tension he stood as still as stone.

Ryo looks at the pony and just smiles

"Oh somepony did turn up, though can't say I was expecting a warm welcome, even after being called over here, though It appears im in the right place to find some information on the fires"

((Ryo, would you like to continue with Sara? Sorry that I didn't respond that day; I wasn't exactly thinking straight. I forgot that I posted.))

Shard noticed a mare on his way home. She appeared to be a tad lost. He slowed to a walk and approached her gently. "Hello miss..." His voice trailed off as he thought of something to say.

"oh uumm hello" Sara looked a bit surprised to be talked to she had never been the best with strangers

"Um, do you need a bit of help finding your way?" Shard said after a moment, finally forming words. He kept a calm expression and tried not to startle the pegasus any more.

((correct Pegasus))
"oh umm well um" Sara looked quite embarrassed "did I really look that lost, I was only looking for the school around here"

Majem slowed down once he saw the pony had finally come to a halt. Majem was out of breath and panted while he spoke. "You *pant* could you *pant pant* tell me *pant* what's happening?" He asked and looked over at the capitol building. "What's so special about this place?"

"No you didn't look that lost." Shard said reassuringly. "I just was wandering around..." His voice trailed off again, as he didn't feel like talking about himself.  "Which school? Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns or the Royal Academy of Magic? Or a different school?"

((Dinner. I'll be back in bit.))

((alright))

"T thats the one im supposed well was going to meet up with a friend of mine there, he went to look something up while it was closed, but he's been gone for hours now,... ii m getting a bit worried"

"Oh, okay. I happen to be a professor at R.A.M. Follow me." He starts off toward the Academy. "Who is your friend there?"

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 27, 16:45:08
Ryo looks at the pony and just smiles

"Oh somepony did turn up. . .

The pony looked more confused than suprized now. "Fires?" Then his eyes darted to the sides of the warehouse and confusion was more apparent then any other emotion. "Are you some kind of social-worker? Have the princesses decided to dictate laws about the construction of our warehouses now? Well, I assure you sir, this building is far more enforced than any other and we shall pass your test with flying colors."

His curious stare turned into a frustrated glare. "So how about you leave, huh? YOU DON'T have the right to just go snooping in places without the owners permisio . . ." His voice died in his throat as he spotted the open barrel besides Ryo, eyes quivering in hate, he spoke softly. "Ahh, well, perhaps I've mistaken your importance. Of course, you must stay, at least till Sir Titanium arrives." His hoof gestured towards a small side room. "Come in, I'll make you tea." His voice was cold and not at all inviting.

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 27, 17:26:11
Majem slowed down once he saw the pony had finally come to a halt . . .

The pony didn't seem to have an answer to that. "Special? No this place isn't special." He shook his head. "I don't think so, important ponies work there though, I think. And important ponies, ponies willing to work for Equestria, that's where Green would go . . . to. He can't do it alone, no. No, that's impossible."

"Are you talking about Green Strokes? I'm trying to help him, but I don't even know what this is all about!"

"hmm sudden change of tone there perhaps we do have things to discuss, very well I wanted to talk to somepony I can wait a bit longer"

Ryo wonders into the side room gestured he knows that this is completely shady but, it didn't bother him at all in fact it made it all the more interesting for him to see

---

"Y your one of the prroffesors, oh then you may know kai  he helps out there very often"

Quote from: PPBG on 2013 Jan 27, 18:23:53
"Yes I know Kai. Nice stallion."  ^-^
~~~~
They arrived at the Academy and Shard unlocked the door while thinking about the security. (This doesn't seem like a good idea anymore.)
(( I have to go. Sorry.))

((Continue?))

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 27, 18:18:44

"Y your one of the prroffesors, oh then you may know kai  he helps out there very often"

((sure))

(( @.@ Why did I join so many RPs... Getting bored of juggling 3 at a time.))
The group starts to hear mumbles of ponies nearby inside the warehouse, so they decided to follow over to where they're  coming from. Maybe they know a thing or two about the incident with the fire they thought.

Quote from: PPBG on 2013 Jan 27, 18:23:53

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 27, 18:18:44

"Y your one of the prroffesors, oh then you may know kai  he helps out there very often"

"Yes I know Kai. Nice stallion."  ^-^
~~~~
They arrived at the Academy and Shard unlocked the door while thinking about the security. (This doesn't seem like a good idea anymore.)

"Well, let's go." he said, half sighing, although not out of irritation. Simply out of the confusion of his own thoughts. (Letting an outsider into the school without headmaster's permission... nor the permission of anypony else in the school. Smart.) However, he wasn't about to go back on his word, and he held the door open for the mare.

"oh i im sorry i really didnt mean to be a bother, though if your worried about the security the magic shouldnt be a problem, i if that helps"

"Oh, no, it's fine," he lied. "Go on in." He smiled with false comfort. His thoughts echoed punishments from the headmaster, but he attempted to brush them aside. "Do you know where he would be? Or what he was looking up?"

"I i dont know he said about looking up something on....."  Sara goes usually quiet "umm and he was looking for something in his room and in the lab he .. didn't say what he was grabbing"  

"Okay, we can go look for him in his office first..." Shard entered the Academy, and held the door from the inside. "What's your name?"

"Im Sara .. Sara Wheat song sorry I forgot to introduce myself, and i forgot to ask your name"  

"I'm Glacial Shard, but you can call me Shard." He looked at Sara, perplexed at why she isn't entering the building. He cleared his throat. "We are here," he said pleasantly, hiding a slight edge of impatience. "Let's go in now."

"ok sorry right yes" Sara goes into the building triping over herself as she goes in hitting the floor, however she gets up and looks rather embaresed about it "umm that didnt happen ok?"

((I forgot to add the going in line on my last post  :P i had it set up as well))

"That didn't happen as long as your okay. Are you?"

Sara rubs her hoof a bit "yea i im fine we should get moving, I dont want ryo knowing im still in canterlotor alone for that matter"

Shard nodded. "Okay. Let's go. Follow me." Shard started off toward Kai's office. The evening sun shone through the windows of the Academy.

"this place its bigger than I thought, I cant beleve they both work here, its so nice in here and posh unlike a certain unicorn"

"Mmm..." Shard agreed, although he didn't really know what the mare was talking about. He wasn't in the mood to question her anymore. He continued along, checking every so often to see if she was following.

((You may describe arriving, since I don't know what your character did, if he's there or not, whether the door is locked, open, or just closed...etc.))

((alright then  ^-^ ill do the environments around the academy well until i get told off ))

As they arrive at Kai's office
"This is it isn't it"
She turns the door and it slowly opens the room is dark though Sara turns the lights on though the room is a mess it looks ransack like some pony was looking for something papers all over the floor and document files open

"wha whats happened in here? this cant be kai's doing can it"

Shard shrugged. "Well, considering that he was looking for something, he probably... got frustrated. I wonder what he was looking for." Shard looked over the room and the mess that lay in it. "I wonder if he's still here," Shard thought aloud.

"i dont think he left he never came back home, its why i went looking, and he hes never this .... it couldn't be related to him now could it" Sara panics for a moment and charges out the room and down the hallway

(Could Kai perhaps be involved with Strokes case...? No... Probably not...) Shard was snapped out of his thought by Sara's escape. "Hey!" he yelled, concern lacing his voice. He followed Sara out into the hallway and chased after her.

Running down the corridor Sara runs into some... thing in the dark corridors closely followed by some banging and paper books and what appears to be a few viles scatter on the ground, as well as Sara falling backwards and to the floor

"What are you doing here, this place should be closed off"

((Gah, exciting moment and I have to leave. Sorry.  :c [Dad says off.]))

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 27, 18:18:44
"hmm sudden change of tone there . . ."

Before the two had time to reach the door . . . the finely dressed pony, from earlier, dashes into the warehouse. His nostrils flared and his expression furious, he turned upon the warehouse pony. "Silent, come away from that pony. He's here by invitation." His eyes danced about the room and disbelief cut into his features. "Is . . . Is this the only one that has come?"

The pony, whom the fancily clad pony had called 'Silent', looked surprised and nodded his head emphatically. "Yes, Ser Titanium. This one, here, is the only pony to show up! Why Ser? Were you expecting many?"

Ser Titanium looked dejected and worn. "Mr. Silent. I was expecting a great deal more than one. Now please, could you make us tea? We have quite a large ammount to discuss." He looked at Ryo, sadly, and with great meaning.

* * *

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 27, 18:14:35
"Are you talking about Green Strokes? I'm trying to help him, but I don't even know what this is all about!"

"Strokes, Strokes, STROKES!" The pony shouted in his usual confused and deranged manner but . . . his eyes seemed to clear for a moment. "Strokes, he found it, found out! Found out the princess have been bad; very, very, bad." He shook his head fearfully. "Found out their secret, their little secret they didn't want any-pony knowing. Got us in alot of trouble, got us in the bad graces of the Princess. They weren't going to let us spread the news, after-all." His eyes were glazing over again  . . . " Princess, bad, very bad. And Strokes, he might come here. We abandoned him! He'll be back though, Strokes won't abbandon us, no-no. Not even if we abandon him, which we did."

The pony was shaking his head quickly and undendingly, until he almost fell . . .  then he stopped and braced himself against the backwall of a bakery, still keeping a close eye on the Capitol building.

"Its fine I dont mind being addressed as a wonderer, considering how shady this whole ordeal is to begin with as for the others, well there probably still deciding on there next move considering the style in which you gave the message"

Ryo smiles
"But regardless lets talk shall we, things certainly are not quite what they seem"   

"The princesses? What do they have to do with this? Anyway, where IS Strokes? What happened to him? I was supposed to meet him earlier, but the appartment got burned down and now the guards are looking for me."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 28, 19:53:26
Running down the corridor Sara runs into some... thing in the dark corridors closely followed by some banging and paper books and what appears to be a few viles scatter on the ground, as well as Sara falling backwards and to the floor

"What are you doing here, this place should be closed off"

Shard quickly spoke up, before attempting to recognize the voice. He felt completely responsible for Sara at the moment. "I allowed her in. I happen to be a teacher here. I am not looking for trouble."  Shard was wary of this confrontation, he had not been prepared for it and quickly adjusted from a defensive stance to a semi-casual one. Shard looked at the figure expectantly, awaiting a response.

"Proffesor Shard?, and you only you would be lucky enough to find somepony like this" The pony offers a hoof up for Sara

"So what are you two dong here so late? Though I have a peaty good idea"

Shard doesn't have anything to say at first, as thoughts whir through his head. (Huh? "somepony like this"?) Shard shook his head to clear it and then smiled sheepishly at the pony, recognition seeping into Shard's mind. "Looking for you, doctor. Miss Sara here was worried."

"ah yes i have been gone a few hours, im sorry Sara i didn't intend to worry you, though you need to be careful going out on your own, you dont know the city expeacly in a state like this"
"I know but with all what happened I, i had to find out you were ok, all these incidents and missing ponys I, I "
"Its alright and Shard thank you, out of all the ponys in canterlot I'm glad she ran into a trustworthy one like yourself. Im sorry I worred you both"

"You're welcome." Shard picked one of the questions on his mind. "So, Sara said you were looking for something?"

"ah well yes, I was doing some research on a certain topic, and I thought the library might have some more information, but that wasn't of much help"
Kai grabs together the dropped items, a few of them are recent newspapers and others a few written reports and none of the viles are broken

" It's nothing to worry about and probably its best if I don't get you two involved, me and Ryo are already in enough as it is"

(This is too much... My friends, my colleagues... Something secretive, something dangerous...? I may be insane, but...) Glancing at the newspapers, Shard recognized several headlines. He sighed mentally. ( Mhmm, I'm as crazy as a cuckoo bird.)
"...Dr. Kai, could we speak in private?" Uncertainty glinted in Shard's eyes. He was dancing on the line of the law here.

"we cant get more private than a empty school but if you want we can return to my office, I had also best fix my mess""umm does that mean you want me to stay outside?"

Shard smirked at Kai's comment. "You have a point." However, he regained a serious but gentle tone and looked at Sara,"Just for a moment Sara? Could Dr. Kai and I speak one on one...?" Looking back to Kai, Shard replied, "Yes, your office will work."

"alright im sorry about this Sara it shouldn't take to long"
Sara smiles "dont worry ill keep watch for you both" and she laughs a bit and Kai smiles back
"alright then this way Shard"
Kai goes back into his room and prepares to shut the door when Shard enters

Shard was still mulling through his anxiety as he entered Kai's room. A short phrase echoed in his mind. (Crossing the line, no turning back...)

Kai's exprestion changes as he shuts the door "So Proffesor Shard might I ask what is wrong"

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Jan 29, 13:34:39
"The princesses? . . . What do they have to do with this? Anyway, where IS Strokes? What happened to him? I was supposed to meet him earlier, but the appartment got burned down and now the guards are looking for me."

But the Pony was mumbling now, nonsensical nothings. At times Strokes' name would come up but most often he was muttering about the injustice in the world. His eyes had glazed over, he didn't seem to be seeing his surroundings, but he continued starting in the direction of the Capitol building.

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 31, 21:38:32
Kai's exprestion changes as he shuts the door "So Proffesor Shard might I ask what is wrong"

Before either had another moment to think, a strange noise cut into their mental funcitons, emanating from just behind Kai's desk. . . A soft rattling, and after a time it would dissipate, then start up again.

"...Wait." Shard looked toward Kai's desk. "Do you have any idea what that is...?" Shard was worried. If anyone heard his next few questions, trouble could come about.

"No I don't, this wasn't hear earlier, were you the only other two here when you were walking around?" Kai slowly opens his desk

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 31, 21:51:23
"No I don't, this wasn't hear earlier, were you the only other two here when you were walking around?" Kai slowly opens his desk

As Kai moves his hoof to open the desk . . . he notices the strange unnatural shadow sprawling underneath it, as the light catches the very tip of strange figure . . . what it is becomes shokingly clear. It was a pony, a full grown mare curled underneath the desk like a frightened child. The noise was a harsh wheezing she had been making, a shaky breath that sounded like death, itself.

The mare shirked away from the professor's attention, cramming herself further into the small hoof room underneath the desk.

Kai steps back from the desk "Who are you? And how did you get in here? theres no point in hidding anylonger Ive seen you, come on out"

 The mare doesn't respond, her attitude remains the same but Kai's retreat allowed the light to better catch her apperance. Her hair was dischevled a small red night-cap sliding off it, her clothes cosisted of a thick purple-red night-gown, all food stains and dirty. But the mare didn't SMELL dirty, she didn't really smell like anything, besides some soap if one got close enough to sniff her.

Her eyes were crazed, lost in another world and it was possible she hadn't even heard Kai's demands. 

"..... Listen miss I said come out from under my desk, I dont want to have to use the security system on you" Kai rasing his voice looks really serious his normal kind expression faded , and the signs of his stress now clearly showing to all 

((and Oh Roe I think you may wish to check your names there  :P))

"Great.." Majem thought to himself and sighed. He never liked mysteries and this pony really wasn't helping him at all. Perhaps the Capitol Building could bring more information, but that was the worst guess Majem could make at the time. The pony kept staring at it as if it was important, so might as well give it a go.

Shard tilted his head in confusion. He walked a bit closer and almost asked, "What... who are you talking to?". His breathing faltered for a moment, as he saw the disheveled figure of a mare. He would have admired Kai for his bravery, but Shard was to confounded to do much. (...I've never seen a pony look like that...) Shard looked to Kai. "I'm not sure it --she can hear you. She looks..." Shard tried to think of a word to describe the being. Coming up with none, he simply finished his statement with a wary expression.

"no your right perhaps I was a tad rash just then sorry" Kai bends down making himself clear to view for this mare
"Its alright come on out, I didnt mean to shout then"Kai holds his hoof out and simles

 Her audible mutterings could just barely be heard, as Kai leaned in an inch closer. "Not . . . and so it came, . . . lost him. Now where are we? . . .  horror. . . but it cou-. . . time."

She didn't make a move, this time, she just sat there in her awful gown, with that tattered night-cap constantly falling from her head. A small trail of spittle sliding down her chin.

Shard said softly and gently,"Lost who? We can help..." He wasn't sure of his words, but he wanted to comfort the mare, and perhaps get her to a mental hospital. So he continued along, hoping that she could hear him,"Just tell us who, we can help..."

 Her eyes moved slowly, affixing themselves to Shard's and she shouted. "YOU CAN'T HELP ANYONE! THEY ARE ALL GONE! . . . all gone." She ended in whispering again. "But they aren't all gone, they are around . . . somewhere. Unless . . . found . . . "

Shard's eyes widened and he made a couple skittering steps away as the mare yelled. He was not expecting that from this quiet, poor mare. (However), he reminded himself,(she seems a bit insane, so...) He regained the distance lost again and said,"But can't we try? Isn't it better to try your best?" He kept his gentle expression and tone, but he was thinking less encouraging thoughts.(When can we get her to a mental hospital?)

Kai recomposed himself and got back up
"Its probably for the best if I contact the medical ward on this matter , this pony doesn't appear to be all there, we will have our discussion later on after this matter"[/color

 That rattling, from before, was prominent again. And the mare's eyes were loosing their focus. "No, not when it's not possible. It'll drive you mad, mad, crazy!" She crawled out from under the desk, suddenly. Looking, about the study for something, throwing up papers. Papers she didn't even seem to be looking at.

"Not here, no-no. Not here." She chanted to herself with each hoof-full of papers that fluttered through the air.

(Mad like you?) he thought to himself, worried, not for himself, but for the mare. "Okay, miss..." He stepped back and spoke into Kai's ear softly, as not to be heard. "I agree. This poor mare needs to be in a mental hospital in my opinion."

Kai takes a piece of parchment from the desk as well as a pen and takes it over to the beds to lean on and starts writing a message to the medical ward
"Ill use the school mail system to get it there, ill mark it as urgent using my name they should read it preaty swiftly"

((Using the Spike mail type system if thats alright with you))

"Good idea." Shard glanced warily at the mare. (I wonder what she's talking about...But she's not in the state to be asked, so I guess I may never know.)

Dr Kai places the letter on the  schools instant mail box system to be send off, The letter contains information informing the hosipital about this using his name and signing it urgent

"that should get there soon, It might be best to keep an eye on her until then, though I do wonder how she got in here, even I had to get a key"

"Mm. I wonder that as well as why she looks so poorly." Shard looked down on the mare with soft eyes, wondering about her. Other thoughts crept into his mind, thoughts about the day. (What an odd day.) He continued reviewing the day, til he came to meeting Sara. "Oh, Sara is probably worried about us, but I doubt that she would want to see... this mare."

"Yes, She probably heard me shouting as well, *sigh* It might be better to call her in but first, your probably aware of why I was here aren't you, its why you wanted to speak to me alone am I right Shard"
Kai starts talking as if reading a poem
"The hoof that wrote a page of words to reach the minds of others now gone to leave a legacy of woe to those who search"

"I believe we are speaking of the same thing. We break the law by saying his name..." he replied. This was risky business, but they were in an almost empty school. Still, caution prevailed, and Shard asked a question instead of mentioning the forbidden name. "But I still don't know what you were searching for..."

"Information, I wanted to use the libraries references but I didn't get anything, so I decided to get some previsions because, I feel this could be quite deep and It may mean that I cant return here for a while after"

"Mmn. I never thought about that. I never thought how breaking the law could mean the loss of my job..." Shard said. He was starting to regret his decision.(I guess it is too late now.)
"So, Ryo is in this too? This mess of a mystery?"

"somehow he stumbled in on it, got himself caught up in some business on his return trip from the crystal empire, though I don't think he really cares about how deep he's in, though by saying this mess of a mystery I can presume you hold some interest in the events"  

Shard closed his eyes and held his breath for a moment, then let out an exhale. Opening his eyes, he replied,"Yes. You can presume that." He looked to the floor while saying this, not making eye contact. He closed his eyes once more, but more tightly this time. When he opened them, they held no expression. They were blank.
"I'm going out to see Sara. Are you coming? I'm not going to be the one to show her the mare in here."

"It may be best I stay here keep an eye on her till the medical team get here, save any accidental harm to her self"Kai looks worried for a second
"but please do keep an eye on Sara she ... she's an important friend of mine"   

Shard nodded. "Okay." He figured that he's ask Kai later how they knew each other. Sara didn't seem to be one for conversation. Shard opened the door just enough to slip out, left the room, and then closed it with a soft thud.

Sara smiles softly "Is everything ok in there?, I heard shouting?"  

  At this very moment the mare let out a wailing sob, that echoed through the empty corridors and pounded in the ponies' heads. Sheer melancholy, utmost despair and the sound made one think of the end of sanity and destruction of one's reality.

The mare went on for several minutes before falling to the ground, gasping for breath, the horrid rattling more prominent than ever.

Shard was about to reply "Yes, everything is okay", but the mare's deranged sob interrupted him. He shut his eyes for a third time as the mare wailed. A few moments of silence passed once the mare stopped. Shard opened his eyes and spoke after he had cleared his head from the sound that came from Kai's office."Y-yes. Kai just has a patient in his office..."

Sara doesn't seem terribly impressed with Shards answer
"A patient.... in a closed school.... Mr Shard I may not have the most confidence but I'm no foal, what's going on in there?"  

---

Kai tries his best to comfort the mad mare
"come on calm down everything's ok, threes no need to cry, everything will be ok shortly"  

 The mare seemed near unconsciousness, her troubled breathing sounded ever worse before and she lay on the cold stone floor, the only movment her chest, struggling to raise and fall. Kai's words may have reached her, but whatever the case was, she didn't respond.

As a slow bulb of trickle gathered to her lips and spilled over onto the floor, she began coughing aggressively. Flem spattered across the floor and her coughing fit died down. Her eyes were closed, tightly, her brow knit in a crease so tight . . . it might never come loose. But she wailed and spoke no more, she layed their on the ground making no more attemptes to trounce about the room and upset the papers there.

Shard sighed. "There is a sick mare in there and Kai is getting her help." It wasn't a lie. There were just missing pieces to the puzzle like "how did she get there" or "why is she in Kai's office", but Shard couldn't answer those so he didn't even try. (Would those medics hurry up!?)

"Why would there be a mare in there.. it doesn't make sense,  unless do you two know the mare?"

"Well, yes. We do." Shard said. (Yea, we know the mare is a crazed, mad pony who needs help. Yep, we know her. Not.)

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Feb 01, 12:02:08
"Great.." Majem thought to himself and sighed. He never liked mysteries and this pony really wasn't helping him at all. Perhaps the Capitol Building could bring more information, but that was the worst guess Majem could make at the time. The pony kept staring at it as if it was important, so might as well give it a go.

The capitol building looked the same as when he went there with Silver. Ponies pushed in and out as quickly as they could . . . lots of ponies, and tired ponies with piles of scrolls sidled through the crowd worriedly, somehow managing to keep all their great stacks of parchment and paper upon their backs, unscathed. Doors everywhere, nothing of direct interest in this room . . .

"come on it cant be comfortable down there, let me help you"
Kai attempts to very very carefully get the mare out and onto one of the schools beds

---

"Well that fine then Kai should be able to look after her until the medical team arrive, there should be no probems with the pony you bearly know"  

"Mhmm." Shard murmured in agreement.

"What is even going on here? Ugh." Majem walked around the building nonchalantly for a while. Perhaps somepony who didn't seem busy could bring some answers.

Bloodblade sighed as he watched his Master pace back and forth, muttering to himself as servants came in and out with news of their successes and failures.

"Master..."

"Not now, Bloodblade."

The butler fell silent.  It was the same thing over and over again.  Setbacks come, and suddenly a rational, hyperintelligent mastermind goes into a fit of obsession.

"Master, weariness is only going to complicate matters."

Fancy slammed his hoof on the priceless ebony table.  "For the love of banished Tartarus, Bloodblade, I know what I'm doing!"

Days, years of pent-up passion for the stallion's well-being sprang out, and before the butler quite knew what he was saying, he found himself speaking completely out of turn, almost passionately. "Begging Master's pardon, but he does not.  You haven't eaten in days, you've barely slept.  And much as Master's servant takes pride in the effectiveness of the Maids, Master's best informants are gone now."

The stallion whipped around, eyes bloodshot from lack of sleep, frustrated and almost despairing.  "And what would you have me do?  Throw myself at the Princesses, begging forgiveness?  Allow the world to fall to endless night?"

"Nay, Master."

"Then what WOULD you have me do?  SPEAK PLAINLY!"

The pegasus fell silent for a moment, then, with strength he never knew he had, looked the aristocrat in the eye.  "....I would have you endure, Fancy.  Ever since you were a colt, I looked after you.  I fed you, taught you.  I stood by your side.  You were like a son to me, more than a son, closer than blood.  Fight the good fight, but don't destroy yourself unnecessarily either.  This is a battle that will not be won in a single day, Master, and one must conserve strength for the end."

Sanity returned to those crazed eyes, and suddenly Fancy no longer looked so bold or furious, but simply weary, weary beyond belief.

"I... I suppose you're right... a little rest might..."

The butler was already there when the pony fell forward, unconscious from the unbelievable pressure that had weighed so heavily on him.  A quiet, sad smile played on the servant's lips.

"Sleep, Master Fancy," he whispered, as he had done to comfort the pony after a nightmare so many years ago.  "Master's servant will guard him through the night."

Gazing up through the roof of the windowless room, as if he could feel Luna's ruthless gaze high above, the pegasus sighed.  "And may some force of good stronger than even the Sun and the Moon guard US through the night."

*****

"Feather?"  The familiar green face peeked through the door, her usual smile replaced with a look of worry.  Her husband  was sitting at his desk, flicking a pencil up and down with a hoof.  Concerned, Juniper walked uncertainly over, standing by his side.  They stayed like that for a bit.

"Juni... what are the traits of the Princesses?"

The mare was surprised by the question, but answered without hesitation.  "Eternal Love, Eternal Wisdom, Eternal Patience."

The room fell silent again.  Juniper shifted a bit, her unease growing.  "Why are you asking me this?"

The blue pony sighed, and as if for the first time, seemed conflicted and uncertain, even though he had been very confident just that morning.  "Juni... I... something's been bothering me recently.  Actually, for a long time."

The mare nodded, and let the researcher collect himself without interrupting.  Whatever was bothering him, he'd only admit in his own time, she knew this much at least.  Pa was like that too, back on the farm.  Colts didn't like having to turn to others for help, and she was tomcoltish enough to understand the feeling.  Soon enough, the stallion chuckled a bit.

"I guess that's not saying much, eh."  His eyes looked up, searching hers for a bit.  "Can we sit down for a bit?"

Juniper nodded wordlessly, and the couple walked over to a sofa.  Feather took a while to compose himself.

"Juni... there's something wrong with all... this.  No, no, not the house.  Not you either.  It's with... I don't know how to say it, with everything.  Something's up, I don't know what it is, but something's just wrong, and I can't put my hoof on it.  I think... I think..."

He grew agitated, and struggled to calm himself.  "...recently, there's been... things, going on.  In Canterlot.  Not just in the city, in my laboratory as well.  These requests... Something's terribly wrong, Juni.  I can feel it.  And somehow, I feel as though something i made, something I helped make, is responsible for at least some of it."

Juniper just nodded, letting him speak.  She knew just saying "you did nothing wrong" wouldn't help here, the pony needed to come to it himself.

"Juni... what does the Book say about sacrifice?"

The mare grew worried.  "Greater love hath no pony than this, that a pony lay down her life for her friends."

A distant look came to Feather's eyes.  "Juni... something... something has the Princesses worried.  Something's wrong with all this."

He looked down in shame.  "But... I'm not sure I want to know what it is."

Juniper leaned over and hugged her husband close.  "Feather.  Whatever you choose, I'll always stand by your side.  Don't worry."

Feather shook his head almost imperceptibly.  "Juni... I can only hope and pray that you're right."

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Jan 29, 10:01:00
"Its fine I dont mind being addressed as a wonderer . . ." . . .

Ser Titanium's ears fell limp and the transformation was complete! From his confident attitude, just hours before . . . to this complete despair. A whisper escaped his lips, "Surely . . . that was one of the only ways I could communicate, safe ways . . . I couldn't think of any other way . . . And only one responds."

His glazed eyes floated off into the encroaching darkness. "The darkness in Equestria is finally overflowing . . . The darkness that only licked the corners before, it has already begun it's consumption. Perhaps this darkness was necessary once, but no longer, no, now it will come to suppress us, regress us . . ."

Ser Titanium's head shook ever so slightly, a silhouette within the growing darkness; eyes without emotion. "One will not help, one is not enough . . . the end is coming and there is nothing I can do." A small smile creeped into those eyes reflecting darkness, it was barely an upturned line and only the very tips of his lips curled up. Ser Titanium's eyes glazed and trickled and his back legs seemed to lose their strength. "I . . . suppose there is nothing to do but accept it, huh? What else can we do . . . what else can we do against this endless shadow? It is . . ." His words were breathless, forced beyond his capacity. " . . .the way of the world."

* * *

 

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Feb 04, 11:25:31
"What is even going on here? Ugh. . . "

Attendants and secretaries continued to bustle around the Capitol building. Then a familiar pony wandered into the area. . . one of Lord Silver's secretaries. She spotted Chirp and blinked at him curiously, a steady hoof rose to her head then a beckoning, halting and self-conscious. 

* * *

[Scene: Kai and Glacier]

  The paramedics were slow to respond, no-pony expected any emergencies at the University and a single operator was the only one there to receive messages for the University and she was playing 'cards in the hat'. But she had found the 'important' message and sent out a call for the emergency ponies.

  "This is Doctor Kai's office?" A well-built, if exhausted, stallion in wrinkled purple scrubs stared down at  Sara and Glacier. Then a pristine mare came cantering up; a medical duffel swinging in her muzzle. "Where's the patient?!"

Ryo just looks, his expression doesn't change still an odd smile on his face as if he was expecting this he opens his mouth while still giving a oddly serious smile
"Darkness is nothing to fear, I have yet to meet a darkness that outweighs my own, now how about we discuss this endless shadow, and what on equestria it has to do with the poetry nut"

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Feb 23, 21:38:16
Ryo just looks, his expression doesn't change still an odd smile on his face as if he was expecting this he opens his mouth while still giving a oddly serious smile
"Darkness is nothing to fear, I have yet to meet a darkness that outweighs my own, now how about we discuss this endless shadow, and what on equestria it has to do with the poetry nut"

"Yes, the darkness is part of you . . . just like any pony, this world was build on it and now the foundation is sucking us back in.  At least there wasn't death . . . I suppose, but is the loss of our freedom worth it? Our freedom is all hollow, we thought ourselves more free than the birds, but the instant we step over the line our leash is retracted."

  The pony looked up, his eyes might have been staring directly into Ryo's but no-pony would be able to tell. His eyes were all tears and blinks. "The Princess hold their strings over all of us, next time you do so much as THINK, know that you should be careful, if they find you have thoughts they don't approve of . . . you might not be able to think again!"

Shard nodded and looked at the door. [Color=cornflowerblue]"Yes, the patient is in there."[/color]
But before  he let the pair in, he opened the door and looked at Kai while saying, [Color=cornflowerblue] "I'm taking Sara out of here. I think it's for the better. The paramedics are here. I'll be waiting outside of the Academy. Side entrance B."[/color] ((That's what  I'm calling the entrance that Sara and Shard came in.)) Shard looked quite serious. He waited a moment for approval, and then he pulled his head out of the room and said to Sara, [Color=cornflowerblue] "I think we should let the paramedics work in peace. Follow me please." [/color]He started walking out the way that they came. He looked over his shoulder to see if she was following.

Majem walked up to the secretary, desperately seeking assistance. "Hi, I, uhh, how are you?" He said nervously.

("Honestly does every pony we meet have to be mad or speak in riddles")
("it's part of the fun is it not besides now I'm curious")  

"Im already aware of the power of this empire, to make a long story short let's just say I'm already not on their best books and I'll say it again Darkness is nothing to fear, although it is fairly worrying how much control they do have but, that's not exactly a huge worry for myself"

---

"alright Ill explain the situation in here"

"Fine then no sense in getting in the way I suppose"
Sara follows along

Shard sighed inwardly and was relieved. He led her to the same door that they entered through.  [Color=cornflowerblue]"We are just going to wait here, okay? "[/color]

Quote from: Chirp on 2013 Feb 24, 09:33:16
Majem walked up to the secretary, desperately seeking assistance. "Hi, I, uhh, how are you?" He said nervously.

"What . . . what are you doing here, sir? Could you be looking for Madame Glory? I-I really don't think we can help you, sir. I mean, I . . " The secretary died off, as she caught hold of Majem's eyes. "Wh-what is it? Why are you here? You-you don't have news about Ms. Glory do you?"

* * *

Quote from: Ryo_D_Disk on 2013 Feb 24, 10:23:09
("Honestly does every pony we meet have to be mad or speak in riddles")
("it's part of the fun is it not besides now I'm curious")  

"Im already aware of the power of this empire, to make a long story short let's just say I'm already not on their best books and I'll say it again Darkness is nothing to fear, although it is fairly worrying how much control they do have but, that's not exactly a huge worry for myself"

Ser Titanium fidgeted and gazed at the pony before him; then, finally he made his decision. "I think I'm going to trust you and I hope it isn't the worst mistake of my life. Sir, we are a resistance, the beginning of a rebellion, here in Canterlot. Don't ask me who 'we' are, I wont' tell you our names, but we have taken the name 'The Viridian Alley'. If that sounds familiar, that might would be because we started out as an open bar for radicals and any with strong opinions."

"Then Green Strokes found something, something BIG and we were only able to obtain the slightest piece of information, it was some kind of conspiracy related to the Princess." Titanium fell silent for a long time, staring directly into Ryo's face.

"Do you know what such information indicates!? It tears down the very structure of our theology and government! The princess are NOT infallible and if this this true, they can even be corrupt."

"So if thats the case where is this information, Because Im aware there must be truth behind those words, expecialy if the guards are already acting up, so that brings me to a simple point, What was the point that lead to your awnser, and where is this key player in this plot"  

Ryo looks staring and pondering the outcome "And what do you want of me here to push your truth further"