BottleCap /cyoa/: Or, Curse Quest!

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>>26759903

>You trot up to the mysterious door, and find yet another dark room.
>There is another untrustworthy lever sitting on the wall, as well as a flight of stairs, presumably leading deeper into the pyramid, behind you.
>Lithy follows behind you closely.

>"Where to now?"

>>26766664
PULL IT

>>26766664
>whatthefuckamievendoinghere.jpg

>>26766664
Same technique as last time.

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>>26766710
>>26766727

"Okay, same as last time. Stand back Lithy."
>You quickly tie your trusty rope around the lever, and trot back a few paces.

">Okay! Do it!"
>You give a sharp tug-
>The lever doesn't budge.
>You pull harder, straining your neck.
>Suddenly, the lever lurches.

>Along with the section of the wall it was attached to.
>An entire wall begins to fall down, cascading daylight into the room.
>"Yikes! Watch your hooves, Cap!"

>You step back, trying to avoid the majority of debris.

1/2

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>>26766999

>The wall finishes collapsing, and you and Lithy both poke your head out of the hole.
>Surrounding you is open desert, and a ledge around the edge of the pyramid.
>You're outside again!

>Where shall you go from here? Back inside? Or did you want to explore the exterior?

>>26767028
let's go through the stairs

>>26767090
This. Ask Lith if any of these mechanisms seems similar to what ruins she's been to before.

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>>26767090
>>26767098

>You head back into the interior of the pyramid.
>Sunshine was for losers anyway!
>That and people with vitamin D deficiencies.

>You begin heading up the stairs.
"So, is this what ruins and pyramids are usually like? Scary monsters, and weird trap levers that break the walls?"

>"Oh, uh- Well they're usually less exciting than this, I can tell you that! Every one I've been to, they're either completely falling apart, so that the levers and walls already fell down, or in the process of salvaging or restoration. Of course, those ones are monster free!"
"Sounds like my kind of pyramid!"
>"Oh come on, you can't say this isn't fun!"
"Scary and fun have some pretty clear lines between them."
>"True adventurers just have to know how to use that line as a skip rope!"

>You chuckle a bit, the joke loosening up your nerves.

>You reach the top, and arrive in a long hallway.
>It looks to go pretty deep into the pyramid.

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>>26767379

>You stare into the hallway.
>Something about it unnerves you.
>Maybe you're just worried about the shadow beast coming back.
"What do you think, is it safe?"
>"Probably. I can't say for sure of course. But we aren't going to be any safer here than anywhere else. So we might as well keep moving. If you're feeling concern, you could light up another torch. You've still got two of them, right?"

>>26767501
doitfaggot

>>26767501
We should do so. So Lith... how is living out of a boat on the river? Seems kinda carefree and cozy. It also seems very poor, but hey. I mean, I might not mind it. Wouldn't live in the desert though, definitely somewhere more green.

Yea let's light up a torch and head down that passage. Keep an eye out for traps, loose rocks, scorpions, mummies, slippery mold, sticky fungus, ancient aliens, floating sphincters, etc, etc.

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>>26767578
>>26767580
>>26767611

>You take a deep breath.
>Then pull out another torch, and light it up.
>You weren't gonna let some shadow beast scare you when he wasn't even here!
>You were a brave pony! You could take on the world!
>You hold the torch, and begin trotting down the hallway.
>Lithy follows close behind.
"So, what was life like for you, before you met me? Like, how long have you been living out in a boat? It seems like a pretty idyllic way to live. Nice and carefree, set your own schedule-"
>"Oh, I haven't been at it for very long. Just about- Oh, I guess it'll be about two months in a week or so."
"Two months? just all alone in a boat?"
>"Well, my Dad comes to visit sometimes. It's his boat technically, but he doesn't need it! He has guides and associates and money, and- Other stuff. I could just stay in that dusty old Inn, and wait for him to bring adventure back to me, but why would I wait for that? I'm a grown mare, I can go out and find my own adventures if I want. Like you! You're an adventure! Waiting in an inn wouldn't have brought me anything like this."
>She gestures to the walls with wonder in her eyes.
"So you wouldn't want to just sit and relax in your boat, and settle down for a while? Just a real, 'up and at em' kinda mare huh?"
>"You know it! Sitting still is for people who have time for that. I mean- I guess I've been doing that for the past few months- But- But whatever! I'm doing things now! Besides, I wouldn't want to settle here."
"Yeah, it's all brown and dusty out here."
>"Oh, yeah- That too. But mostly, I've just got my Pa out here. If I was gonna settle down I'd like to do it in Equestria, be closer to my heritage and family, you know?"
>You nod, you felt pretty similar.

>You trot down the hallway in silence, keeping watch for any traps or whatever else might come your way.
>Soon, you come across a large open room, with what looks to be a throne in it.
>The hallway carries on.
>"Ooh! This room seems important."

>What do?"

Investigate the table and throne, asking Lithy if she recognizes anything. Also take a peek behind those wall hangings.

>>26767903
Looks like a map.

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>>26767989
>>26768012

>You enter the room.
>As you do, the table looking thing in the center of the room begins to glow.
>Lithy rushes over to check it out.
>"I hope you've got a good memory, because we're probably gonna need to remember this."

>The table is a giant map, presumably of the nearby area.
>As you approach, it becomes alive, with the little cloud moving about, and the little volcano smoking.
>The waves actually flow and everything! It's really neat!
>Around the edges of each side is a glowing color, respectively Green, red, orange, purple, and blue.
>The colors of the tribe and your stupid curse.

"What do you think it means?"
>"I don't know- Is- Is this live? up to date?"
"No, It can't be, those little villages look way different than the one we were at a few days ago. This must be showing something ancient. Also, there can't be a volcano that active just chilling so close to here.
>"I don't think it's to a proper scale. Most notably because this pyramid is nowhere near as large as the red mountains. Have you seen those things? You must have, nobody coming into Neighxco from Equestria could miss them! What did you think of them?"

>Do you tell her about the unconventional way you came to Neighxico? Or do you move on to the throne and the wall hangings? Was there something else you'd like to ask about the map?

>>26768311
remember all the locations. I know where we have to go now!

>>26768354
Let's tell Lithy about the portal, no reason to hide it.

I do want to check out the wall hangings.

I'm torn about sitting on the throne but think we should probably try it. We should examine it first as best we can, looking for any warnings that sitting there would be a bad idea. Tell Lithy to yank us off if shit gets too real.

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>Have a post all nice and ready to go.
>My modem stops working and I have no internet on my computer.

I hate everything sometimes.

>>26768749
Damon SWC, it's almost like your cursed

Bump before bed

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>>26768925
Maybe, my computer decided to shut down and crash entirely, and it took almost half an hour to get running again.

>>26768354
>>26768439

>You walk around the table, moving towards the throne.
"Okay, pretty much got that thing memorized."
>"Hello? Cap? Did ya hear me? What did you think of the red mountains?"
"Oh, yeah. I heard you."
>"And?"
"I uh- Must have missed them?"
>"What? How did you get down here? It takes days to travel across them, surely you must have seen something, were you in a closed caravan the whole time- Or-"

"I didn't exactly come to Neighxico in a very traditional way, Lithy. I sort of- Fell through a rift in space time."
>"Wh- Eh? Sorry, can you repeat that? It sounded like you said-"
"I did. A rift in space time appeared, and I sort of- Jumped through!"
>"What?! Cap, you realize that's more fantastical then than your entire curse, right?"
"It's true though. It just kind of happened."
>"You're kidding me, right? So what, you just fell through a hole in space time, and arrived in Neighxco right next to this pyramid? Was this whole curse thing destiny or something then?"
"Well, not right next to the pyramid-"
>"Okay, Cap, this is hilarious, but really. You're messing with me right?"

>You look her deep in the eyes.
"I'm being 100% honest with ya Laccolith. I fell through a rift and ended up here."
>"You- You really mean it? So then- What does that-"
>She began muttering incoherently, trying to consider what it all meant.
>Should you have told her?
>You didn't think it was that big of a deal at the time, but you can see how it should have been absolutely ridiculous for somepony else.

>You take the time whilst she is sorting it all out to examine the rest of the room.
>There is the throne in the center of the room, which is large, stone and imposing.
>You look around it, but can't determine anything significant about it.
>you look back at Lithy.
>She's still muttering. You think you broke her.

1/2

>>26769071

>You take the opportunity to head to the back of the room, which is obscured by long and flowing purple wall hanging curtain type things.
>They're in amazing condition considering how rubbish everything else around here is.
>You gently clasp them in your teeth, pulling them back and revealing-
"Oh! Hey, Lithy- Come check this out!"

>She trots over, giving you a strange look.
>"So, are you actually being serious about the- OOOH! Sarcophagus! Good find Cap!"
"Right? Do you think I should open it? Or is that one myth true that all Sarcophagi are cursed? Do you think I could get double cursed?"

>"Well, historically, the myth is based off of the opening of King Trot's tomb. And of the Twenty eight ponies present when it was opened, Twenty six were still alive twenty years later. So probably no truth behind that one. However, this is a pretty cursed and dangerous pyramid so far... So... Up to you I guess."
"Right, how about the throne. Do you think it's safe to sit in?"
>"Maybe I don't-"
>She seems distracted by something.

>"Look, Cap. You're telling the truth right? You were zapped here by some rift in time? Wh-What was it like? Was there just a teleporting feeling, like one sec you're here, the next poof- Oh! Was it like, falling through a swirling vortex? How was it?"
"It was-"
>"Oh! Better question. So you arrived in the desert, yes? Yes- I already know that, And did you feel compelled to go any particular direction? Was destiny calling you?"
"I can't really-"
>"Because if it was- Then, that means that finding me was destiny too! And THAT WOULD JUST BE SO EXCITING! I always wanted to stumble upon some big destined to be thing, and now the universe marches one right up to my front door! Everything about you keeps getting more and more mysterious! It's- It's so cool! I love it I love it I LOVE IT!"
>Her enthusiasm wasted no time in coming back in full force.
>You smile, and boop her nose.

>What will you say or do?

>>26769118
If it was destiny for me to be portaled out here then it's probably no coincidence that I found you. You did sort of save my life and all, I wouldn't have survived the desert much longer if I hadn't found you when I did. If destiny is involved then it includes both of us, you're part of this too. Regardless I'm glad your here with me, along for this ride

Now, let's pop this bad boy open.

>>26769175

-=-=-=-=-

Pausing here unfortunately. I would have hit my goal of ten images per session if not for that stupid computer crash.

What are your thoughts? Are you enjoying the characterization of Bottle Cap and Laccolith? Am I messing up their character somehow, what should I change?

Next session we open the sarcophagus, and things get real. See you tomorrow.

>>26769248
Characterizations are going good. It's nice to see them get further development.

>>26769062

>>26769248
The characters seem fine, I'm digging it.

I voted "Will Comment" in the poll. Of the Equestria races, I like griffins, sea serpents (rare in deserts, but we do have a river), minotaurs goats and centaurs. Dislikes: Bats, moths, changelings because everyone goes autistic over them.

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>>26770038
How could you dislike that face (sorry I'll stop now)

Let's bump shall we

>>26770038
Also voted the same, and I'd like the things you mentioned, but I would also like satyrs and moths or breezies.

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>>26771946
Bumping with other races

I missed the poll, here it is again if anyone needs it
http://strawpoll.me/7092356

>>26770038
>sea serpants
Might as well include sirens, kelpies, and seaponies (riverponies?) In the mix. Also dragons haven't been mentioned yet.

>>26769248
Cappy seems dull to me. Let's give him a backstory! How about Bottlecap had a rather boring job, maybe in a soda factory, and life beforehand and went out looking for adventure and found the rift in space-time and accidentally fell in (because he's a goof). His dream is to one day to open his own soda and ice cream bar and be a soda jerk.

>>26772853
I like this except Instead of going out looking for adventure, he had become depressed and complacent at his job and position in life. The portal was just dumb luck or fate. Gives him some contrast and things to face about how his life has changed, why he was living that way, was it his job or something else, will he find something he was missing all along etc etc

>>26773167
So end goal can be opening a ice cream and soda bar boat with Lithy and sell soda floats to colts and fillies in rivertowns in Equestria?

>>26773219
That's really up to the QM and how things play out, don't want to get ahead of ourselves (we don't even know if Lithy is straight) but that sounds nice, I'd like to live on an ice cream boat with a smart adventurous qt.

>>26772853
>>26773167
>>26773219

This is a comfy back story. I accept it.

But what in particular is Cap's talent? He has a bottle cap, is he able to open any container with a beverage inside?
Or is he just a specialist in beverages in general?

>>26773280
Of course she's straight. Didn't you see her blushin' when Ol' Cappy laid on the charm in the library?

>>26773291
There was talk of him being a bottle cap collector, having a penchant for finding rare and valuable collectibles (I think that was talked about in the cyoa general). That would tie in to fate guiding him.

Could be abstract, maybe he's good at cleaning up messy situations, putting a cap on it?

Or maybe he does just love soda, maybe he makes his own?

>>26773311
Good point, I think I'm afraid of jinxing it.

>>26773355

Qm here. Lithy is now quasi-flexo stargendered. All because of you.

What do you think the name of the Shadow Shifter is/should be?

>>26773862
Pleb

>>26773862
Gigazaur.

>>26773387
Excellent my rouse has payed off, finally I will have a waifu compatible with me, a demi otherkin submissive pansexual polyamorus tulpamancer with blue equine trichophillia.

>>26773862
Spooky Harold

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My computer is really against running today. So art might suffer quality damage because my laptop is harder to draw on.

-=-=-=-=-

>>26769175

"Well you know, if it was all destiny, then of course meeting you was part of it. I would have been toast out in that desert if you hadn't have been there! I probably would have passed out in the cold, and been fried come morning. Or met a rattlesnake or something. So uh- Thanks. You kind of saved my life."
>"W-Were you really in that much trouble out here?"
"Well, I didn't exactly have any idea where I was. I still don't really."
>"This is Neighxico, Cap."
>You roll your eyes.
"I- I know that one. Geez. I'm not dense. Seriously though, if this is all my destiny or whatever, then you're definitely wrapped up in all of this too. And I'm glad. You seem like a good pony to get wrapped up into a destiny thing with. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have by my side."
>"O-Oh, glad you think so!"
>Is that another blush? You didn't think you were that charming.
"Are you blushing?"
>She makes a squeaky sound.

>"So, uh, shall we?"
>She gestured at the sarcophagus, quickly trying to change the subject.
"Oh, yeah. That thing. Don't worry. I've got this. I am an expert at removing lids from containers! Or my name isn't Bottle Cap!"

>You try and push the heavy stone lid.
>It doesn't want to budge.
>You press into the side with your torch, trying to use it as a lever.
>Still nothing.

>"Here, let me just- Push this. It's a symbol that translates to 'release'."
"Oh, yep. I knew that."

>She pushes the button.
>The stone lid pops off.

Well, let's take a peek inside

>>26775106
>>26774995
Prepare to be spooked.

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>>26775113
Ok, I'm ready

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>>26775106
>>26775113
>>26775158

>You both peek inside.
"AAAA- It's just a skeleton, nevermind."

>Well that's a little boring.
>You were hoping for a mummy or something.
>But it doesn't look like he was wrapped up or preserved at all!
>Infact, it looks more like he just took a relaxing pose.

>"Okay! Well, this is neat! He's got a smaller stature, so I can date his body back to when ponies had an average of that size... Which was roughly 600 years ago. Although he could certainly be much older, that's just a base estimate. It's a shame he doesn't have any clothes or possessions, because then I'd be able to get much more useful information out of him."

>Lithy hums and haws for a second.
>"Do you notice anything strange about the pose?"
"Yeah, kinda looks relaxed, right?"
>"Yeah. Bizarre. I'm going to look at the underside of the lid. Check for scratch marks. I think he might have been trapped in there alive!"
>Lithy turns around for a second.

>Well this is underwhelming.
>Though you're not sure what you were expecting-


W̬̩̺̖͙̬͙ͪ̊̂ͧͪh͉͓ͩ̒ō̮̳̞̖͐͋̈̿͑ͥ́ ̲̜̻̯̩̝̂ͫͨ̏̐ͅd̟͓̱͚̮̫̈ͬ͊̊ͭ̔ḁ̯͇͍̰r̗̮̝̞ę̬̎s̻͉̖͉̱̊̋̄ͯͨ̉͗͜ ̲̦͖͍̎͊ͨṭ̷̻̰͈̯̥̞̓ͮo͇ͦ͠ͅ ̰̲̩͔̮̤̝̄̿͗ͦ̓d̢̳̝̠̺̱̽ͫi̍̿ͦ҉̗͖̠͚̲̮̲s̛̜̬̖̗͕̜̎̓̓͐̚t̅ͣͨͮ̚҉u̦̟͙ṛ̾̿̊͆ḇ̫̫̠̭̆ͨͪ̒ͭ ̷̮͓̞̖ͬ̍̋̾ͅm͏̪͕̦͇͎̜̝y̢̫̘̦͈̖̬̙̎͊ͯͯͪ ̭͇̣s̤̟̪̭͛̋̇ͭͣͤl͂͠u̵͒ͪͤͪͬ̀m̥̼͔͉ͪ̄ͯͣ͝b̵̜ͧ͗͛͋̍͐̽e̦̮̭̋͌̀r͊?̬ͨ̋ͯͤ̉ͯ


>Okay, that's closer to what you expected.

>>26775279
Be spooked. Then greet him. I don't know how, just improvise.

>>26775279
Well since we are winging it, we could try going the high and mighty route. Something along the lines of " I am the one who carries the magic of the five tribes and I have come to pay tribute and seek guidance. Oh, and this is Lithy, she's here too, don't worry she's cool."

....not sure about this idea.

>>26775380
This sounds like Cap.

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The next few posts might end up being lore, and might just make or break this quest. I'm so nervous.

>>26775292
>>26775380
>>26775399

>You decide to play it like you have this whole time. By the skin of your teeth with no idea what you're doing.
"Greetings! I am BottleCap, possesor of the powers of the five tribes. I have come to pay tribute and seek guidance! Oh, and this is Lithy, she's here too I guess."
>"Hey!"
>The skeletal body shifts and creaks, as it begins to move.

>You shoot it one of your best winning and charming smiles.
>They've worked for you so far, right?

>The skeletal body floats out of it's grave menacingly, and glares into your soul.

>It coughs and sputters, trying to adjust to the Equestrian tongue.
>"You? YOU? You are an Equestrian! You possess the five relics of power, that can undo the curse of the sacred orb? GIVE THEM TO ME. NOW.

>>26775619
Oh shit.

>>26775619
Five relics?

>>26775619
Uhhh... relics? Listen man, I just kinda ate the orb so...

I wonder if pushing that button closes the sarcophagus, looks like it poped off, not magically floated off.

Well running is always an option if asking him about the relics goes south.

Can we have an inventory check if there's no pastebin

Note to self: In the future, knock on sarcophagus to see if anyone answers before opening.

Maybe Lithy can help us out with this conversation, let's glance at her desperately.

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>>26775619

Whoops, he's supposed to be a unicorn. please ignore that slip up.
>>26775634
>>26775653
>>26775704
>>26775723
http://pastebin.com/itE0rLxJ
>>26775744
>>26775767

>OKAY. THIS WAS JUST UNFAIR.
>You should really take up the habit of knocking on sarcophagi next time.
>If there is a next time.

>You glance over to Lithy.
"Uhh- You'll field this one, right Lithy?"
>"Cap. I am good at ruins and dead people. Not 'supposed to be dead' people."

"Alright, so we clearly got off on the wrong hoof here. I thought that the sacred orb was a product of- Um, The power of the five tribes- And uh-"

>The skeletal Unicorn silences you with a look.
>You sputter nervously and incoherently.

>He whips around to look at Lithy.
>"Did you feed him this awful misinformation? Is he supposed to be a sacrifice for me to drain and restore my flesh and youth?"
>"WHAT? NO! DEFINITELY NOT."
"I am definitely not up for being a sacrifice."

>"So you chose to awaken me, yet you did not bring the relics. Do you expect MERCY?!"
"I didn't know there were relics!"
>"You don't, do you? THEN HOW DO YOU KNOW OF THE SACRED ORB, AND THE FIVE TRIBES. THAT KNOWLEDGE IS GUARDED FROM HISTORY. WHY ARE YOU HERE, IN MY PYRAMID!?"

>"We're just- Explorers, of a sort. Bottle Cap over there um. Has- A thing- Personal experience, with the orb!"
>He whips his neck around again.
>"What have you done with it? Did you remove it from it's sacred spot? How did you sneak past Guardia Arachnidia? What year is it?!"

"I- Uh, ate it? I think?"
>He stares off into space for a second.
>Or at you.
>Or into your soul again.
>It's hard to tell with those blazing eyes of anger.

>"So you posses the curse too then? Unfortunate. I am not taking students. I await my own desciples to return from their journey and retrieve the five relics for me. That is the only way to undo the curse, as it is with their power that the sacred orb was made. I implore you, tell me what year it is."

>He sounds angry.

Tell him the year

Let him know that we are looking for the cure and will help him

>>26776167
Show the amulet and ask if it's one of the five relic

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>>26776217
>>26776220

"It's uh- The 1246th year of the Celestial calendar-"

>"LIES! I Would have felt that much time passing! Are you daring to say that I was left forgotten in this pyramid for nearly a millennium?"

"you know, that's exactly what the Shadow Creature downstairs said when I told him the year! Is it something about you ancient monsters that you can't tell time?"
>"The shadow beast downstai- He's still here? I thought he would have left by now! How is he doing!?"
>"He's rude and wanted to eat us."
>"Ah, same old guy. I used to have an amulet that could protect me from him, but I lost it one day-"

"Oh by the way, this isn't one of those relics by any chance- Oh, you were just talking. Sorry."
>You had just pulled out the spell crystal necklace thing.

>"OH! THAT'S IT. THAT INFERNAL THING IS THE WHOLE REASON I- Oh, goodness. After all this time, it only has a small charge. They just don't make spell crystals like they used to."

>"They used to MAKE spell crystals?!" Laccolith cried out in excitement.
>"Yes! Oh the stories I could tell. I simply haven't got time however. If it really is that year you said it was, what was it, like 1100 something?"
"1246-"
>"BAH! Then I have to get back to work! I was expecting my disciples to return to me and bring me the relics hundreds upon hundreds of years ago! I was only supposed to take a quick nap! Still had flesh back then too-"
"I don't think they're coming."
>"Nonsense! They may not be stuck undying, but surely they live about- Uh- Normal ponies don't live hundreds of years do they? Confound it."
>He tries to climb out of the coffin, but his hoof falls off, and he spends about a minute trying to reattach it.

"You know, I'm cursed, I certainly wouldn't mind finding these relics if you can undo it!"
>"Hrmphh. I don't know if I can trust you. These relics are powerful, they cannot fall into the wrong hands, no matter what. Last time they did- Whoo. What a story that was."

>>26776419

By the way, you literally have an expert on the curse right in front of you. Who knows a great deal about the lore of this land. Feel free to ask him any questions.

>>26776419
What happened, I think we've got time for a story?

Not sure If we can trust this guy but we can try to convince him we are good guys, I'm not sure how, but we can try.

Hopefully he is a good guy too, or at least harmless.

Tell him he can join us if he's able.

We might want to ask if that's his throne out there, maybe he needs help getting to it.

>>26776419
So anyways, I've had weird stuff going on since I ate that thing. Like seeing-stuff-far-away powers and bleeding from the eyes. How does that work? Can I get other powers?

>>26776485
Oh and how do we remove the curse? Can we learn to use it to our advantage in the meantime? If so, how do we do that without making our eyes bleed?

Do you think Lithy could go for a guy like me? How do I know she's into me and not just the adventure. Do you think I'm an attractive stallion. On second thought, let's keep these 3 questions to ourselves

How do we deal with shadow bro? Can we recharge the warding crystal?

>>26776167
thanks for the inventory link

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>>26776508
>>26776524
>>26776657

Story time. This might take a couple of posts to get through, and I don't have pictures so please bear with me.

=-=-=-=

"I'm plenty trust worthy, I can get- Uh, LITHY! Vouch for me!"
>"I literally met him yesterday, and declare myself unfit to vouch."
"WHAT."

>The skeleton laughed.
"Ha~! Alright, well you did have a pretty confident and charming smile, and it doesn't look like these old bones want to go very far right now, so why don't I tell you a story then."
"Wait- But I had questions- About the curse, and my eyes were bleeding, and- If Lith- Er, nevermind that- But can I control it? Or make my eyes not bleed, or-"
>"In time child. Sit your butt down, and take notes or something. The only place this is documented, if everything went according to plan, should be right here in this pyramid, and in my mind. Not to mention anyone else who still survives with the curse elsewhere, if there is anyone else."
"Wait, so does the curse make you immortal- Or-"
>"It doesn't let you die. You still feel all the pain as your body degrades and your nerves decay though. Even now, the body I've lost, as well as my friends from the distant past, they won't stop hurting. It's like a phantom pain-"

>"OKAY! Enough of that- Story time please!"
>Lithy has parked herself on the ground with a notebook, ready to review and publish the history lesson she was about to receive at seemingly any moment.
"Wait, but I thought it was supposed to be a parasitic entity, wouldn't it-"
>"Bottle Cap! Hush! The spooky skeleton is retelling forbidden history! Let me listen!"

>The Skeleton took a deep breath.
>"I was once told not to tell anyone what I had seen or lived through. It was punishable by death back in those days. Now a days, I would welcome it, so screw those rules. This is the story of Neighxico, before it was anything."

Long ago, there were five tribes---

>>26776419
Even though the entire purpose of that damn amulet was to get us safely back though the passage and we made it fine anyways, I still don't regret not putting it on. There was WAY too many fucking red flags to just put that shit on.

A: In a pyramid we've already been cursed by touching something in
B: In area of complete darkness
C: It's fucking red and black

>>26776808

>A tribe of red, the warriors of the mountains and flame.
>A tribe of blue, the rulers of the sky and clouds. And also the water cycle.
>A tribe of purple, the mages with a mastery of magic and mystery, said to build great cities and illusions.
>A tribe of orange, the farmers that made up so many of the common folk
>And a tribe of green. The druids and nomads that controlled the forests and grasslands.


>They did not get along.
>There were countless wars and disuputes and battles over land and territory.
>As time went on, their tribes grew to nations, until the cultures realized there could be no life amongst the land if they continued their battle.
>They elected one representative from each nation, who proved themselves through various challenges as a true icon of their nation.

>They met in secret, in a great temple, much like this very pyramid.
>The nations had all grown so much, that new land was required to survive if they kept up their warring ways.
>Originally, it was thought that peace might be settled upon at this meeting of the five, and that they might unite with one another, or find an advantage and conquer the other four.
>The five met with their own respective ancient priests, So a plea was made to their various gods for a power to oppose, so that they could continue to expand, or unite.

>The five were granted each, five relics of power. One of each color and symbol, to take home with them.
>They were to worship the relic, and use its power to become mighty leaders.

>The first year, it was the same as it ever was.
>War and destruction amongst the borders, and peace within the inner villages.
>The five tried to find a resolution outside of battle, but could not.

>Over time, they became friends, and things started changing for the better.
>As leaders of their peoples, and friends with one another, they changed their society, and that strengthened their union as trade began between them.

>For a brief five year period, there was peace.

>>26776899

>Then the troubles began again.
>The five themselves got along just fine.
>But the people of the land didn't.
>They felt they were simply too different from their peers.

>And the priests felt the five weren't using their relics responsibly.
>There was distrust and political strife throughout the land.
>if only there was something that could bring together the peoples of the whole nation.

>And then one day, there was.
>There was a nation to the north, with vast land and rich resources.
>Just over the red mountains of the Warrior nations.

>The peoples of the red nations did not of course want to attack to the north, and the mountains were their home, so they didn't want to have any of the other nations trespassing.

>The other four begged the red of the five to use the power of her relic to bring her people to reason.
>And she did, becoming a mighty general, and abusing her power as she chose.
>The relic granted her power far greater than that of any ordinary pony, able to control fire and magma spew forth, or so it was said.

>She encouraged her other brethern of the five, to do the same with their nations, and they would rise to fight against the north.

>But they could not lead a nation to war. Although they had fought against themselves for years, they could not march together, or handle the rigorous commands of the five titans.
>And they were titans now, consuming and feeding off the power of the relics daily.

>As history usually goes, power corrupted absolutely.
>They became tyrants, massive in power and size, attempting to force their people into a war they didn't understand now.
>At some point, someone must have realized that the relics were messing with their minds, making them blood thirsty and war hungry.

>>26777004

>The populace began to revolt about then.
>The five didn't like that.
>Not even when the priests came, trying to take away their precious relics, claiming it was all a terrible mistake.

>The five stole the relics, and tried to formulate a plan.
>But at this point, they were possessed of a fury in and of themselves.
>They wanted war, and didn't even know why anymore.
>But they knew their relics, and of their power.

>They wanted to create something new. Something that would create an army for them. An army of undying soilders.

>They created the sacred orb.
>At first they thought it was a great idea.
>Force a curse upon various ponies, and force them to learn.

>But everything went wrong for them there.
>With the power of the relics they had lived for uncounted years.
>The people they took were not the same skirmishers they had fought alongside so many years ago.
>They were trading and getting along now.

>So when they created the first accursed warriors to fight for them, they revolted.
>And they went to the priests, who taught them of their curse, and how to use their power to stop the titans, and return the relics.

>The accursed few, as they were called, were heroes of their time.
>But the five were mighty, titans of their own right.
>The peoples of the land took up arms, uniting as a whole for the very first time.

>Soon, the first of the titans, the titan of forest, fell. And from his body, sprouted the great forest, where his once people took up residence.

>>26777107

>Then the next, the titan of blue, the sea monster as she was called, was slain by and endless array of nets and blades and lightning magic.
>She evaporated into a cloud, which was built into a floating cloud city.


>The Titan of purple was a master of magics and illusions, but in time he to fell.
>He fell into the sea, his body growing into a great coral reef, with fantastical alchemical properties.

>The titan of orange surrendered, giving up his relic, and returning to a somewhat normal life on the plains.
>He died alone, a simple farmer.
>His relic is said to bring great harvests to the people of the land.

>And last the warrior of fire, the most powerful of them all, hid herself inside a volcano, and was never seen again.
>Her relic is said to be kept there to this day.

>Order returned to the land, under the watchful eyes of the priests, who shunned their predecessors for the creation of relics of such raw power and danger.

>But the accursed ones were soon forgotten, their curse unlifted, and without any idea of how to remove their curse.

>Some wandered, some dissappeared.
>One of them went out into the desert.
>He was once a great archmage, and he devoted himself to the building of a pyramid.
>He spent years and years and years building it, trying to ensure that history was not lost.

>He often met with the priests and wise men, and soon all the history of the land was gathered there.
>He hired a faithful Shadow beast, controlled by an amulet, to guard the knowledge.

>Over time, several disciples gathered, and the archmage discovered the history of how the sacred orb came to be.
>He reasoned that if the relics could create such an object, they could remove the power too.
>And so he waited.
>And they never returned.

=-=-=-=-=

End of lore dump oh god people probably hated it I'm sorry.

>>26777215
Hmm. So we gotta collect the relics to fix us both. I say we head for the orange relic first. Orange titan seemed like a chill and reasonable guy. But first we should get some superpower lessons.

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>>26777215

>"So that's basically the story!"
>"Holy cow! I had no idea Neighxico had such a rich history involved in legend! To think all that happened and it's basically not even documented!"
>"Well, It's not supposed to be documented! All the priests were told to erase the records! The relics were simply too powerful for their own good! If they fell into the hooves of anypony intent on evil, they could cause much harm and chaos!"

"Wait, but that still doesn't answer most of my questions about the curse! Is it controllable? Will it consume my soul or flesh and leave me like- Well, like you?"
>The skeleton wraps his bony hoof around you, and pulls you tight.
>"Kid, you ask the right questions. You're gonna go far someday."
"O-Okay.
>"That's all."
"What? You don't have anything to say?"
>"I have plenty to say. I had to learn the hard way. I think it's a good way to learn. If you know the barest of basics, you can easily work your way up from there."

"But- I don't know anything about this curse!"
>"You said you knew it was a parasite, and that it made your eyes bleed. That's way more than I had to work with. It only took me sixty years to find out what I had to do to get it to listen to me. Still acts up every now and then too!"
"I- I don't have sixty years!"
>"Sure you do, long as you got that curse, you've got as long as your bones are intact!"

"You can't even say one thing about it?"
>"Hmm. Maybe I could teach you one little thing. But you're gonna have to do me a favor."

>"What's the favor!? I guarantee Cap is willing to do anything."
>"You're not gonna like it. I want you to use your curse to leech off what's left of my life force, and end me."

"W-What?"

>>26777215
No way, that was awesome

>>26777349
Can it wait a little while, you have so much knowledge that we don't. I respect you decision however, if there is no other option, I'll do what you wish. I imagine you've had plenty of time to come to your decision.

>>26777349
Listen, I understand your request but if I'm going to kill you, ya'know the only pony undead to explain what I can and cannot do with the curse, I want all the info I can get darnit. And secondly; I CAN LIFE DRAIN?!

-=-=-=-=-

Pausing here unfortunately.

I start work in eight hours, so I should probably sleep or something.

I am really desperately afraid that I might have killed the mystery of this story by dumping the lore like that.
Also desperately afraid that people won't like the lore, or find titan warlords who get their power from divine relics to be too edgy.

>>26777371

Thanks. I appreciate you random Anon.

>>26777421
Nah man, it doesn't kill mystery. It gives us something to chew on. Colossi and relics are alright.

Bedtime bump

>>26777349
"You're right. I don't like it. You've been straight with us, so I'll be straight with you. So long as you don't strive to take over our society, your insight as an original inhabitant from so long ago would render you a position as the most important expert on ancient history of our time! Having you die would be absolutely tragic for everyone involved.

How about this. You accompany us and guide us on the original quest to reclaim the missing artifacts, we restore you, then you and us hide and serve as protectors of same. You get to live a life you'd never have dreamed of in your time, with our modern conveniences, you'd get to see amazing things! And the three of us could save the planet from repeating the mistakes of your time, because you, knowing history, can tell us how not to repeat it.

I bet in your present form you could ride in one of our saddlebags as we set out on the mission, nobody would ask why you look as you do until you're ready to show yourself."

Insomnia bump

morning bump

why isn't this quest archived, who do I complain to about that

>>26778518
This. Wisecracking skeleton mentor would be a great addition to our party.
Besides, he can't exactly force us to kill him. Even if he gets violent, he'll fall apart before he can do anything really damaging.

>>26778518
While I do support the notion of a Skelly Welly party member I don't think being an eternal protector is what Cap would want, nor something he would be good at.

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The anonymous horse painter strikes again. Got a new app and have been figuring out it's colouring features. Sorry, next will be real fanart, I'll stop experimenting on your horses.

going to page 1

Complain to Amm sempai in the discussion thread.

Bampu

our soul mate is a mare with a bottle on her flank!

>>26782566
>qt mark is a bottle without a cap

I like Lith but I must agree. She'd complete us.

>>26783079

>inb4 our waifu is that one cola pony.

>>26780216

I honestly don't mind. Keep it up if you wish. It's nice to see fanart of any kind, even if it is just colouring.

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>>26782566
Or maybe just always in her hoof

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Trump bump.

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>>26777349

>Lithy gave a cry.
>"What!? End- You don't mean-"

"That's- No! You're right, I don't like it at all! You want me to end your life? That's murder! I'm not a murderer!"
>"Well, not right now of course. Consider this. I have been alive for more than a millennia. I have experienced all that I care to. And all that remains of me is bones and magic. I don't feel a desire to live anymore."

"I'm well aware of that! I can understand that you may not feel any purpose in continued living, but you are one of the most purposeful and valuable ponies alive! Your insight as an original inhabitant from so long ago would render you a position as the most important expert on ancient history of our time! Having you die would be absolutely tragic for everyone involved-"
>"Horrifically tragic! You can't die and take all the knowledge of a generation with you!"

>"So, you would have me tell the tales I know? Teach the world of days gone by?"

"Yes, but more than that- How about this. You accompany us and guide us on the original quest to reclaim the missing artifacts, we restore you, and preferably me too. You get to live a life you'd never have dreamed of in your time, with our modern conveniences, you'd get to see amazing things! We have fantastic things in our time, and you've been out of the loop for years. Did you know we have instant noodles now? And best of all, the three of us could save the planet from repeating the mistakes of your time. Because you, knowing the history of this land, can tell us how not to repeat it."
>"You- You wish for me to journey with you, and probably teach you about your curse and the relics as we go? How would I even come with you? I'm a pile of bones. Walking more than ten feet without falling apart could prove quite troublesome on a journey across the country."

"I bet in your present form you could ride in one of our saddlebags as we set out on the mission, nobody would ask why you look as you do until you're ready to show yourself."

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>>26785743

>"C-Could I do that?"

>He opens your saddlebag, and begins climbing inside.
>He snaps pieces of himself off, until there is a neat little pile of bones in your bag.
>Soon all that's visible is a skull with glowing eyes peering out.

>"This is oddly comfy.
"Uhhh-"

>"Well that was a little disturbing."
"Quite."

>"Apologies.
"So does that mean you will come with us?"
>Oh- Yes, I forgot to agree didn't I. I certainly could come on the journey with you. I'm not keen on continuing living, but if the world needs me again, then I guess I might as well accompany you."

>"Oh! Excellent! I have so many questions!"
>"I invoke my right to remain silent. These secrets aren't meant to go to the outside world. I'm also going to need you to destroy that notebook you were writing in, and I'll need you both to take a vow of silence."

>"What- Awww."
"So, you said that I was to drain your life- And I'm not going to of course. But, is that a thing I can do? I really do need to know more about this whole curse thing. It gives you super powers from what I've heard so far, so it doesn't seem all bad. Are we sure it's malicious?"

>"All in due time child. Let us leave this pyramid before I tell you. If we're going to do all this adventure stuff, then my first condition is that you take me to see the sun. Now."

The accursed Skeletal Archmage, joins your party.

Would you like to make wild guesses at his name? Who knows, you might get lucky and say the right one!

>>26785743
Alright wierd suggestion, he can´t walk more than ten feet, dosn't have an nerves to feel things or muscles to move. He's basically a ghost moving that skeleton around. Well, would he mind just being a skull, can he inhabit just his head or maybe some other object. That would be easy to carry. Inappropriate suggestion? Maybe you can't just ask the undead things like this.

If the above idea is a bust, is there a magical way to give him more strength?

Last idea, If he has to stay there, is there a way we can keep in communication with him?

Oh and is the anything special about that throne?

>>26785925
>Would you like to make wild guesses at his name?
Murray?

>>26785937
Oops I spent to long writing that post. Ignore it please. Glad we got him along without complications.

>>26785925
Slim?

Archmage huh...
Archie?

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>>26785937
>>26785965
>>26786007
>>26786031

"So basically, you're a skull in a bag. Is there anyway way we can restore you at all early? I mean, permenently clearly requires the relics. But, you said life drain is a thing- Can you drain like, plant life or something? And restore your ligaments and muscles or something? Or at least your skin or eyes, so you hold together more?"

>"I- I haven't tried plant life. I cant say for sure if it is beneficiary or not. I will try when we get the chance."

>"By the way, what's your name? I mean, we can't just call you Mr Skeletal.
>"To be entirely honest. I haven't known my true name for many many years. As you can see, I visibly don't have a brain, so having any memories at all is frankly astounding. I have just been known as the Archmage for many many years. Call me as you wish."

"Okay Archie."
>"I regret this immediately."
>"Okay Slim."
>"Regret is intensifying now."
"Nah, Archie was better, because he's an Archmage! Although- Slim? Like, because he's a skeleton? That's pretty good Lithy."

>You are standing in the tall throne room.

"By the way, is there anything special about that throne?"
>"It's incredibly uncomfortable, but makes you look incredibly important. I used to have cushions, but they must have been stolen or rotted away."

>What shall you do or say to your companions? Shall you leave the room? Go explore further down the hallway into the trapped side of the pyramid?

>>26786438
Something tells me Lith and Archie are going to be chatting it up for quite a while. We should go where we broke the wall down, take a breather and have a snack. Frequent breaks are good when exploring potentially deadly ruins.

I vote trapped side, let's see if Archie the skelebro knows anything about the traps.

A breaks good too.

>>26786560
This. Let's get Bonesy some sunlight like he wanted.

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>>26786560
>>26786582
>>26786862

>You head out into the hallway, keeping an eye on the darkened hallways for signs of advanced darkness.
>Even with Archie by your side, you didn't want to meet up with your shadowy friend again.

>You take a turn down the stairs, and head out through the hole in the wall your lever opened up.
>The sun kisses your skin, as you step out into the light.

>Lithy takes Archie, and puts him directly on top of her head.
>"Thank you."

>"No problem. How long has it been for you?"
>"Too long. I fear I might have developed a 'skin condition' from staying in the dark too long."

"Wait, was that a joke or something?"
>"Yes."
>He replied with a complete deadpan.

>They sat there together, as your skeletal friend simply enjoyed the sun.
>"If I had tear ducts, I'd be crying right now. Instead, I can simply appreciate magic vision, and the fact that I don't have to blink. Ha, I can stare directly at the sun now! Fancy that."

>You break out your bag of food, and snack on a couple of hay bars yourself.
>Lithy takes a drink of water.

>It is a calming moment. You feel well rested and content.

>>26786965
this is best pic yet

Should we check out those traps, Ask Archie if there is something we don't want to miss in the temple. I'm not sure about strolling through those booby traped halls.

We should ask Lithy what she wants to do next, let her know we wouldn't expect her to risk the traps if she wants to wait for us outside.

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>>26787386

"So, Archie, We explored the puzzle room side, and the mirror room and all that. What else was in the temple? We know there was a side room on the right, with a whole bunch of traps and things. Plenty of skeletons over that way. What else was there?"

>"Well, there was the trap side, and the puzzle side. and deeper within was the back hallways, the domain of the shadow beast, and the halls of knowledge. There was also the main hall, but that might have been hit by an earth quake a few years back. Aside from the spell crystals and the halls of knowledge, and my upstairs chamber, there isn't much else to be found here."

"Alright. So... Did we want to get going then? Just start our journey right away?"
>"Hmm, not yet. I did want to go back and dismiss the shadow shifter from his contract. I think he's been employed long enough."

>"Uhhh, won't he eat us?"
"Oh. Yes, he might. Don't worry, he's a real softie. As long as we have the spell crystal necklace, or stay in the direct sunlight, he is unable to even touch us. Did you want to come with us, young historian?"
"Wait, why did it sound implied that I was going?"

>The skull hops over to your head gleefully.
>"You're undying, my cursed friend. Even if he shreds all the flesh from your bone, you can't die. But young 'Lithy' over here- That was your name right?- Is quite vulnerable. Though if she sticks close, no harm should come of her."

"Uh. So I'm expendable, to a degree? Or at least my flesh is?"
>"Yes."
"I am rather uncomfortable with that."
>"I imagine that is the correct response to have. I wouldn't know anymore."

"Okay, well, I'm a brave pony. And we've got the amulet thing. I guess I'm going to go talk to a shadow monster."

>Did you want to try and convince Lithy to come along?
>Or did you want to go through with it at all? You don't have to risk bodily harm. You might get a cool scar though.

Lithys might want to see that hall of knowledge but we can't let her risk her life unnecessarily. If she goes with us she wears the protection amulet. We'll just have to be on our best behavior and/or stay in the light.

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I don't actually know why I'm still awake.

>>26787857

"Okay Lithy. You can come with us. But you are wearing this. AT ALL TIMES."
>You slip the amulet thingy around her neck.

>"What? Cap! I mean, I guess- But, I don't want to see you hurt either!"
"I'll just stick close to you then."
>"O-Okay. Promise me you won't leave my side?"
"I promise I will never ever leave your side. Ever. No take backsies. I'm destiny bound to you now."
>"What? N-No, I just meant- For today- I guess- That wouldn't be so bad but- Cap! You can't just!"
>You laugh nefariously.
"Muhaha!"

>The two of you head back down into the pyramid, and greet the mirror room with disdain.
>The barrier still awaits.
>Beyond it, the dark hallway.
>How shall you greet the shadow beast, if at all?

>>26788212
day light savings, I hate it much.[\spoiler]
We're back yo, sorry we didn't bring any books, got something for you though.

>>26788315
oops, yea I need to go to bed myself
We're back, sorry we didn't get those books, we got something you'll like even better.

-=-=-=-=-=

I think I'm gonna have to pause here. There isn't much chance I can stay awake enough to focus on running this to a consistent degree. I'm already running at pretty much an hour between posts.

At least things are sort of picking up, so that's nice.

As always, let me know what you think and if you see anything that could be focused upon more or improved.

Goodnight for now.

morning bump

time for a bump

yet another bump

Afternoon bump

annuda bump.

>>26791958
And bam annuda

>>26792739

Bamnnuad amt

No Bottle cap tonight because reasons.

Apologies.

>>26793644
I trusted you man

>>26793644
Bump

>>26794337

There has been sooooo much shitpoating today. I don't think we'll be able to save this thread till next session.

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>>26795476
We don't need LOW ENERGY, okay? We need HIGH ENERGY bumping going on.

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>>26795655
Hnnnnng BUMP

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>>26795655

looks like a bump will be needed

>>26797504
Indeed

Bumpan.

>>26795476
Don't be like that anon, Cyborg players kept the thread bumped for a fucking week, so we can probably keep this thread bumped for 24 hours.

Still bumpin in here

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Bumpbumpbumpbump

little bump

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Yawn bump

Big bump

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Bumpthulu

>>26801504

>>26793644
Please, come back.

>>26802634

Well... Since you said please.

Although I'm feeling awful and nauseas today. Can't say how long I can keep up any level of decency today. Everything might turn to scribbles and sadness.

>>26803493

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>>26788315
>>26788335

Late and violently ill session go! I don't think I'll make it past three posts at this rate.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=

>Lithy approaches the red glow without any sort of caution.
>She must put absolute trust into magic barriers.
>She raps her hoof against the barrier.

>"Oy! Scary shadow guy! We didn't have a chance to bring you any books, but we brought you something even better!"

>The darkness shifts and turns, as the monster returns to the edge of the barrier.
>"Why have you even returned? Have you no sense? Why do you remain to pester me further, taunting me with the taste of your flesh just inches beyond my grasp?"

"Well, we brought someone to talk with you!"
>You reveal Archie.
>The beast's eyes narrow.
>"A skull? Can't say I'm familiar. Seen plenty of those in my days."

>Archie speaks.
>"Good evening, Dorchadas."

>"N-No. Not you. For years you've kept me here- I'VE SERVED YOU LOYALLY FOR SO LONG! WHAT MORE DO YOU DEMAND FROM ME?!"

>"Nothing, old friend. In fact, I am here to end our contract. I am leaving the pyramid, and have no more need of our services."

>"You- No. You're joking. You're not? I- Truly? You release the magical binds that tie me to this place? So that I might return to my homeland?"

>"Yes. In fact, you could already leave. If what these two tell me is true, and millenia have passed, then our contract actually expired about two hundred years ago. You've been freeloading here ever since."

>"WHAT?! I COULD HAVE LEFT AT ANY TIME?"
>"Yes of course. Be gone with you. Unless you have something further to discuss with these two. Be warned that the amulet protects us still, and it is still daylight outside, so I would advise against leaving immediately. You should await nightfall, old friend."

>The shadow shifter looks to the floor, dismayed.
>is there anything you'd like to ask of him? Do you still believe you can befriend him?

>>26804519
So yeah... I don't know if you're game but I plan on going on a huge quest to find a bunch of artifacts and stuff. If you're interested and won't eat us you can come along. I mean, I won't argue if you want to do your own thing.

>>26804519
Ask him why he looks so sad.

>>26804519
Hey ... hey man that's pretty rough, don't quite know what you're going to do now, do you? I can't imagine what it's like to suddenly have your world changed like that.

Outside is the same place you left behind but made totally foreign by the passage of time.

If you want you could hang out with the three of us for a while, your welcome to join us, just you know, don't eat our flesh, for those of us that still have some.

You know there's a place up north you might relate to, the whole city was banished for 1000 or so years, but it's back and doing good. Actually the princess of the night and you would probabbly have a lot in common. She was stuck on the moon for 1000 years, plus you got the whole creature of the night thing to relate over. Even the spirit of chaos .... etc etc

The point is your predicament is unusually common and we're willing to introduce you to the modern world if you want. Wouldn't mind getting a peek at that library before we go, but that's up to you.

>>26804762
I feel like Lithy would get through to him the most and am thinking she should do the most talking.

>>26802742
while I admire your dedication, I'll feel bad if you start hemorrhaging or something from pushing yourself too much. You've been running this almost every day for an average of 5 hours a night. Way more than most QMs. I don't think anyone will hold it against you to take a break now and then.

>>26804721
>>26804748
>>26804762
>>26804826

"So, he said your name was Dorchadas?"
>"It is an ancient tongue. You do not have honor enough to speak my name. The arch mage alone is the only pony who holds that right."

>"Right, so, how did he earn that right?" Laccolith asked curiously.
>"That is a long tale, that nobody has time for, mortal."
>"But why not? You can't leave till sundown, and although we are about to embark on a dangerous and wonderful quest, we aren't exactly on a deadline. The only one who knows of the relics are us."
>"Archibald! You spoke of the relics? What is the purpose of me guarding this place if you go giving away your secrets so easily?!"

>"Oh sweet maidens, I forgot about the nickname. I think I prefer Archie at this point. Bottle Cap is accursed, and though it may be recent, like all accursed he is bonded to us like a true kinship. And Laccolith is- Uh, you said she was just cool too? I don't know the exact definition of 'cool', but I assume she is to be greatly trusted."
"Uh, sure. Trustworthy Laccolith! That's her!"

>"Laccolith the trustworthy! I accept this fate."

>"So you- Just trust them. Very well. Your reasoning is foolish but justifiable."
"So, we're going on a quest. And you and Archie seem to get along "fine-ish"-"
>"Where are you going with this?"
>"Did you want to come along? There's a great deal to be seen and experienced along the way?!"
>"After knowing what I am, you still wish to attempt being friends? There is literally nothing to stop me from eating you."
>"There's an amulet thingy."
>"It will run out."
"There's your moral code."
>"Can't say I have one."

>"Dorchadas, there are two cute young naive ponies that wish to help you experience a whole new world, and friendship, things we couldn't afford to have back in our time. There is one thing I know you can be bound by-"
>"Archibald, don't you dare say-"
>"Your honor, and the debt you claim to eternally owe me."

>"I- I can't- You know that's not fair-"

1/2

>>26805231

I had a break yesterday. And didn't MangoAnon used to run almost every night?

Also, I want to have a large cushion of actual content in this quest before I disappear into the land of college final exams.

>>26805282

>"That's- Just not fair to invoke that again. You made me stay in this dusty pyramid for so long. I have a world to catch up on- I can't learn of it just- ADVENTURING LIKE SOME FOOL!"

>Laccolith speaks up.
>"Well, actually, that might be the best way to go learn of the world. Between the two of us, we could probably answer most every question you might have. Equestria has had a strangely coincidental number of beasts and monsters returning to the world from thousands of years ago, one of them being our very own Princess Luna! You would like her! She was trapped for a thousand years, on the moon! She also has that whole "Darkness and shadows" vibe going on, I think you two might get along swimmingly. We could take you to Equestria, IF you were willing to go adventuring with us. Furthermore, there's a place up north you might relate to, the whole city was banished for 1000 or so years, but it's back and doing pretty well for itself!"

>"You speak as if you know what it's like, to miss your family and not know what they've been up to for years. You don't know my pain!"
>"I, have felt that pain before actually. Adventuring is a great way to take your mind off of it though!"
>"Pah! As if you know what it's like to not know what's happened-

>Her face turns sour.
>"Shut up! I know!"
>The monster recoils.
"Lithy?"
>"I do know that. I haven't- Nevermind. I'm sorry Shadow Shifter. I sympthasize with what you feel, and I do wish you would come with us and try to be friendly.
>She remains silent, before turning away.


"Okay, so all in favor of not re-opening deep wounds, and going on a big adventure with a scary monster as a party member SAY AYE!"

>"AYE!"
>"Aye, Cap."
>" Wait, I-"
"Aha! He said it! Okay, we'll meet you outside the pyramid at sundown-"
>No! Wait- I didn't say 'Aye', I said I-"
>"Now you've said it three times! Three times the agreement and three times the adventure!"

>>26805480

>"Veeeeery strange. Alright, I shall humor you. You will see me by the fall of darkness. I still no not why you expect anything good to come of this."

>He retreated back into the shadows.
"Uh, by the way Archie, is this actually okay? I mean, he legitimately is a monster. Are we actually safe? Is Lithy safe?"
>"Oh yes. I brought honor into the matter. To him, it matters more than anything else. He wouldn't dare hurt anyone while honor bound not to. Whether I know or not, it would eat upon his conscience like he would feast on our tender flesh. Well, your flesh. Not mine. Speaking of! We should head outside and see if we can't find out if I can take life energy from plants or something!"

"Oh, but I desperately wanted Lithy to see the ancient pictures on the hallway walls! She would love them!"
>"Oh! Yes I would! Can we? Can we can we can we?!"

>"You have the amulet of protection, where you go in this pyramid is your choice right now. Did you want to accompany her Bottle Cap? Or did you want to go outside, maybe show me our means of transport. I can't imagine you walked here form anywhere."

>What shall you do now?"

>>26805282

>Dorchadas
>Gaelic word for darkness.

Nifty.

We should go with Lithy. Archie can help explain the pictures and we can explain all the new things in the world. Like Lithy's boat with that fast motor, how Neighxico uses this weird paper money instead of bits, that amazing burger joint we ate at once that had the most amazing hayburgers...

>>26805547
Go with Lithy. Tell Scully to wait back a minute in case she wants to talk about what upset her earlier, but don't push the issue. Otherwise keep the mood light and ask her questions about herself to get to know her better.

>>26805712
>>26805735

"Yeah! Let's go see the pictures! Maybe you can explain it better than I can!"
>"Okay, let's go!"

>You both move through the barrier, heading into the now slightly brighter hallway.
>The shadow shifter must have moved on somewhere else.
>You light a torch anyway just to be certain.
"By the way- Did- You you want to talk about something? Lithy? Or just, talk in general, about something else?"
>"I- No no! It's fine Cap. It's old drama in my life now, you don't need to hear about all that. I wouldn't mind asking about your life though. What are your parent's like? Where do you live? What do you do for a living?"
"Oh- Well, I always wanted to run a soda stand, with soft-serve ice cream and soda of every flavor, and one day-"

>"Oh my gosh! Look at these! These have to be thousands of years old, but the small hints of color are still fresh!"
>Lithy notices the ancient ruins, and totally ignores you.
>"OH yes- Quite tricky figuring out the preservative magics on those later ones. The supply of everlasting paint ran out, and so I had to substitute it's properties with fruit juices, a bit of hematite and other minerals, and of course a healthy dollop of magic."
>"So creative! And this is depicting the earlier building stages of the mirror room, but it looks totally different!"
>"Oh yes! And if you move further down the hall, you could see some of the works I'm particularly proud of. The battle against the titans for instance, particularly moving- And further down than that- The most prosperous era, the five years of peace-"

>They start moving down the hall, and you absently mindedly following them.
>You already heard the story, so not much new comes to light.
>The pictures are very pretty though.
>You very much appreciate the lack of consuming darkness surrounding you. No longer being suffocated by the black was quite the change of atmosphere.

>The dusty halls are almost pleasant like this.
>Lithy takes her time, enjoying it all.
>What now?

-=-=-=-=-=-

Pausing here because running a quest when you're vomiting right before your last post is not okay.

I feel awful for only giving you one picture this session. Maybe when I recover I can post somethings to go along with it.

Forgive my inferior immunse system. see you all probably not till Tuesday at this rate.

>>26806261
It's okay. At least your quest finally got on anonpone. https://www.anonpone.com/curse

>>26806261
Shit man, rest up and get better. Hope you don't have Ebola or anything

>>26806261
hope you get well soon