(CYOA) War in the North #9

"Maybe... we should leave them here with you? You seem to know a lot about them."
>"Oh, there are old parchments here with the oldest recorded history of the North" Pathfound stops crying and sits down, leaving the yellow necklace in the closest table. "But... I don't think these artifacts were made to stay in a place like this."
>"Don't you have many monsters living under the sanctuary?" Live Fire asks.
>"Yes, but those won't be able to penetrate the ancient wards. I asked some of the oldest residents of Demonview, and they all agree that, if you found two of the artifacts, you probably deserve to have them all."
"Hmm... maybe it has to do with the prophecy."
>"Oh, right!" Clearsoul bounces. "Maybe the disaster refers to something like the gates of Tartarus opening!"
>"Which prophecy is this? I've heard plenty, but nothing about the gates of Tartarus in this day" Pathfound shows interest. You tell them everything about the king and the invasion of monsters possibly being related to demons. "I see... that means further proof to me that somepony else should have these amulets."
>Marion takes the third trinket, and along with the other two, they produce a soft hum, a calming tune with few notes and a lot of meaning.
>"Haha, ha... all of the sudden, I feel very happy..." Brunhilde lets go.
>"That's the power of star magic. It's benign to ponies, but fatal to demons."
>"Is it true that there's a massive horn that you can blow in case of danger?" Live Fire asks.
>"It's true. The horn of Demonview was of great defensive importance during the dark days. Would you like to see it?"

>>28723746
Of course we would like to see it. Can we touch it too?

>>28723746
I would, yes.

>>28723835
>>28723861
"Sure, we would love to! At least I would. You ponies in?" You ask your friends, who immediately bombard you with positive replies. "We're all on board."
>"Then follow me. And keep those trinkets hidden, some ponies might see them and never leave you be again" Pathfound chuckles and gets on the move. You all follow him several floors up, across tunnels of all sizes, and finally end up in a small chamber. "Here it is."
>"Wait... -that- is the horn!?" Brunhilde whinnies, approaching the object along with the rest of you. It seems to be a sort of metallic pipe, embedded into an elevated rock in the middle of the room. The pipe ends in an open nozzle. "I don't get it..."
>"I suppose you were expecting an instrument. But believe me, no regular horn could produce the sound this one does" Pathfound explains. "The truth is, when a pony blows this nozzle, the air generates currents that expand from a special, empty half-floor under this one. That air pushes through the entirety of the sanctuary, all the corridors, and exits through every opening to the outside."

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>>28724159
>"You mean, the entire mountain is the horn?" Marion asks.
>"Exactly" the stallion nods, and your jaws go down collectively. "On the very top of the sanctuary there's a lookout to the vast ice plains north of the Nine Lands. It is said demons come from there, so when a scout saw their armies moving, he would come down and blow the horn. Legends tell the sound will expand all across the northern half of the Nine Lands, from the North to the south of Heroica, and the Basin."
"Wow, now that's real cool" you nod. "Is there a pony scouting these days?"
>"We didn't have one before, but this young fellow arrived recently and decided to take the post of his own volition" Pathfound explains. "He seems very interested in the legends, but not many of us visit him often, so perhaps you could make his day a little bit better and see the amazing views."
>After leading you out of the horn room and closing the sturdy metal door with a lock, the stallion tells you where to get food, as well as another few places to visit inside the sanctuary. Along with the viewing platform on top, there are chapels on every floor, a massive library in the center, and a few rooms with ancient trinkets and expositions. Afterwards, he leaves to carry out his daily duties.

>>28724166
I want to see some chapels and trinkets since we don't really need the library at the moment. We can end our stay here by visiting the viewing platform.

>>28724166
I'd like to check out the trinkets.

>>28724199
Basically this.

Chapels and trinkets first.

>>28724199
>>28724309
>>28724355
>"Anypony else wants to go to the library?" Brunhilde already asks, excited.
"I think I'd like to visit..."
>"...the chapels!" Clearsoul raises a hoof.
>"...the trinkets!" Merry and Live Fire join the party.
>"the kitchen" Aphid replies nonchalantly, causing general laughter.
"No, no, I was fine with the first two. We solved all the questions we had, and some more, so I'm not interested in the books. But I'd like to see the chapels and the expositions."
>" "Yay!" " There's a collective sign of agreement in most of the mares. Brunhilde pouts.
>"I'm still interested in the library, for what it counts" Marion comes with the unicorn, dragging Aphid behind. "And the smartflank bug is coming with us."
>"Fine by me" Brunhilde flicks her tail at your group, as she, Marion and Aphid leave. The rest of you start visiting chapels nearby.
>The rooms used as chapels are not different fom the rest: high ceiling vaults with rows of torches illuminating seats. The difference is the altar, which seems to change with each chapel: one of them represents a whole array of constellations, wonderfully carved across the entire end section of the stone wall. Another represents a fiery creature with bat wings and horns on its head.
>"I-Is that a demon?" Fire asks a mare resting in the room. "Why would you worship that?"
>"Oh, not all the chapels are places of worship. Some remind us of what may be, and teach us to be confident and not fear the future, may a billion trillion demons come our way" the mare replies with a half smile that seriously creeps you out.

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>>28724530
>After visiting some chapels, you go on to the expositions. Laid in different rooms, the ponies of Demonview have kept an impressive collection left by their ancestors: coins of gold and platinum from distant eras; sets of armor fit only for giant ponies; a spear with a spiral shaped head, said to be able to split apart the skies; and mysterious rocks with glowing glyphs, magical relics still holding on to their all but vanished power.
>"Wowie, there are so many thingamajigs...!" Merry flies in loops around you as you head to the platform to finish the visit. "I wonder if they'd notice one of the staves gone..."
>"Merry, no, that would make you overpowered beyond recognition, and nopony likes that" Clearsoul plainly states.
>At the very top of the sanctuary, you meet with the rest of your party, and head to the lookout point. The cold wind assaults your faces, almost freezing you instantly. Luckily, Brunhilde prepares some flames, and Merry brings a torch out.
>The view of the distant north is marred by some clouds, but you can see a pony sitting alone at the very end of the platform.
"Excuse me...? We're visitors, here to enjoy the sights and some conversation!" You call out.
>"Oh? You would be the first visitors since I came here myself!" The pony approaches. As he does, you can see his complexion: very similar to yours, he's a brownish unicorn with a sky blue mane and a rippling cutie mark. Even the manecut matches yours. "Nice eyebrows!"
"Buh..." you look away, and realize Brunhilde's shaking very wildly. "Brun...?"
>"B-B-B..." she's near shock. "Bronn? Brother?"
>"B...Brunhilde!?" The colt reacts in surprise.

>>28724541
Explosion imminent.

>>28724541
shocking development! Is this where he was all along? Well brun i found him.

>>28724541
Watch touching moment unfold.

>>28724573
>>28724579
>>28724591
>Instinctively, you take a step backwards. Not just because this is a touching moment, but because you fear what the unicorn mare beside you might do.
"W-Wow, what a development!" You try to break the ice. "See, Brun? I told you I'd lead you to him, he was here aaall along!"
>"Y-You..." she stutters. "All this time, you were..." she takes little steps.
>"What are you doing here, how did you find your way to this place?" Bronn seems just as surprised.
>"How did I...?" Brunhilde stops, hanging her head. "You... ABSOLUTE...!!" She suddenly lunges at him, pounding his chest with her hoofsies.
>"Ouch, ouch, Brun, stop, that tickles...!" Bronn doesn't seem to feel any pain, which is a relief.
>"You stupid horse, you abandoned us, your own family, I've been looking all over for you, you monster... you...!" Slowly, her words become sobs, and soon enough she's crying with a broken voice, her head fully into her brother's chest.
>"There, there" Bronn embraces her. "I'm sorry Brun Brun, it must have been hell for you and father. But I promise you, I couldn't move from here."
"How so?" You ask.
>"Well, this and that, let's say I ended up with two broken legs" Bronn replies, petting his sister on the head. "My mission here will end soon, I was hoping to see you after that."
"Your mission...?"
>"You ponies are nords too? Then we have much to discuss. Let's get inside, this fog won't clear the view for hours" the colt points at the clouds surrounding the lookout. "Brun? Come on sis, let's go."
>"Hmm... Brun Brun have bro now, now Brun Brun happy..." you hear the mare mutter. "Brun Brun wanna play with bro... be happy with bro... teehee..."
>"Oh dear..." Bronn looks at you. "Is she alright?"
>"You tell us. She seems to be in shock" Marion tries to unhug the mare, but all she does is stick harder to her brother and laugh with an innocent, foal-like smile and glossy, unfocused eyes.

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Back tomorrow for more. Here's the request from the other thread.

>>28724705
This is much more epic than I expected. I love the look on Live's face. She's so pleased.

Thanks dood.

Let's just get her inside and we'll tell her anything important later when she has her sense back.

brun is such a silly little pony for her brother. we'll never see her again after this though.

After this we should head to the big market place.
or maybe we should go to the entrance of where every the monsters are and fight some so we can give the parts to the sisters.

>>28724705
Come on Brun, let's go inside so you can spend time with your bro.

I was going to suggest that maybe we can fight some if the monster's downstairs but Brun seems to be out of commission for the time being.

I can't wait till we're alone with Bronn so he can tell us some funny or interesting stories about Brun.

We need a cool hat.

>>28724760
>>28726889
>Bronn manages to put his hazed sister on his back, still hugging him.
>"Well, I'm happy to see her too, but this is a bit too much" he snorts. "She's just like when I left."
"Hopefully it'll clear after a while. Let's go, Brun."
>Moments later, at an empty hall in a lower floor of the sanctuary, Bronn explains what he's been doing during the past year.
>"I was sent during the two years of peace, to try and find out the situation at the court. I managed to live there for a few months, and then I noticed something strange..."
>"Explain" Marion grips the table.
>"The king used to have a much better judgement. One of the ponies in his high counsel is poisoning his mind, drop by drop, with words referencing the prophecy. He's being urged to covet as much land as possible, and to do it quickly."
>"I don't understand. Wouldn't it be more advisable to retreat and work on your defenses?" Clearsoul exposes.
>"That's because this court pony isn't working against us. He's working against the North as a whole. If there really is a prophecy, if the hordes of monsters are leading us to a total war, both sides of ponies are losing time and effort in the conflict."
"You can count that out, we've managed to stop the war everywhere but at the capital" you confidently tell him.
>"...What?"
>"It's true. We were sent to infiltrate, subterfuge and convince everypony to join together and fight the monsters" Marion adds.
>"We're The Peacemakers!" Live Fire and Merry both explode in cheer.
>"That... did you actually succeed, though?"
"The combined armies of the New North should be around the corner. We're sure."
>"Those are great news. Now we can focus on the main problem" Bronn exhales, lifting his chest. "With the armies working together, the last true citadel of Auroria is their capital, Artul. I do not know what the counselor is or has in store, but I fear for the safety of the town. Have you thought of what your plan of action will be?"

>>28731579
Just go into the city and not be noticed for as long as possible and try to kidnap the queen. Also trying to find like minded ponies if there even is one over there. We're supposed to rescue her.

>>28731579
We've winged it all the way here. I'm sure we can figure it out when we get there. There's something that's been eating me... Tell me Bron, do you think that there will be a place for us when this is all over? The tribes? Will the old ways of Nords be swallowed up by the Aurorian way of living?

Last question is kind of for everyone in our party tho.

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>>28731617
>>28731694
"So far we've just... kind of winged it. Heh" you blush when Bronn looks at you in an odd way. We do have an objective besides finding the king."
>"Oh?"
"An Aurorian commander told us that the queen has been absent, and might be subject to pain of some sort" you explain. "We'll try to contact and rescure her, if necessary."
>"Hmm... it's true, the queen showed up less and less to parties and such. I hope Janos doesn't do anything despicable."
>"You know, there's something that's been bothering me, and now that we've been talking to you, I feel I should voice it out" you speak up so everyone else hears you well. "You've been to the court, and you've seen how it works. Tell me Bronn, do you think there's a place for the old ways in the North yet? Can the tribes survive?" You look around. "I'm asking everypony, too."
>"What kind of question is that? Of course we'll survive, we're timeless!" Merry whinnies.
>"I hope the tribes remain... it wouldn't be a nice part of our history if we just, erased them" Live Fire ponders.
>"I think there's a chance for convivence" Bronn speaks. "There are benefits to this kind of civilization, but the tribes have their strong points too. Together we could improve the North, do what I believe Janos originally wanted to."
>"The way I see it, this is where we're headed" Clearsoul adds. "If we stop this madness, we could all live together."
>"Eh" Aphid lays his comment on the matter.
"Brun, do you want to say anything...?" You look at Bronn's back, but she's not there. "Huh?"
>Brunhilde is now resting with her upper half on top of a table, snoring peacefully with a smile on her snout. Bronn moves away very slowly.
>"She's grown in a year, but nothing can replace that foalish face of my sister" he says, letting out a sigh. "Do you ponies want to see if the view has cleared up there?"

>>28731801
Yeah sure. Someone better put brun in bed though.

>>28731801
Lets put Brun to bed and leave a not incase she wakes up before we get back.

>>28731820
>>28731871
>"Heck yeah!" Merry exclaims.
>"Shh!" Clearsoul and Marion calm her down.
"Sure, let's leave Brunhilde on her bed first" you agree, then put the mare's warm body upon yours. Being of similar build to Bronn, you're certain to carry her without difficulties. "Heheh... she's kinda cute, isn't she."
>"Yeah, a wonder..." Live Fire murmurs. What does that even mean?
>After leaving the unicorn on her chambers, you meet with Vera and Mathe and ask them for some parchment to leave your friend a note. They also offer to go with you, back to the veranda. By the time you're back up, the clouds have cleared and only a warm summer sun remains.
"Wow..." you're speechless and the sheer distance, the gargantuan size of the world on your eyes. The mountains you always looked up to are now but brothers of your same size. Every forest, plain and river of the North is at your hooves. "I can see everything! How far does this even reach!? Echoo!" A massive voice returns to you.
>"Wew" Vera puts her googles on.
>"Pretty much to the end of the North. There, on the clear nights of winter, you can see the fires of the wildlands, the minotaur mercenaries camping in great numbers" Bronn explains. He then turns to your right. "And there's the Northern Plateau, a massive wall of stone and ice upon which Artul is built."

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>>28731974
>"I think... yes! I can see it!" Live Fire says. It's true, on top of the massive ice platform there's the distant shadow of a city. An incredible number of smaller dots cover the bottom of the plateau.
>"That's the trader's hub. It's so large, you'd have to spend an entire day going through. But now it's half deserted..." Bronn complains. "From there, you'd have to take the Step to climb up."
>"Hah! Not if yer got a lil' flyin' help!" Vera exclaims. "If yer ponies are goin' to the capital, we can drop yer off!"
>"Provided you find us some monster loot" Mathe cuddles up to your side with unicornish greed.
>"Hmm... wow. Am I still dreaming?" Brunhilde's voice surprises you. The mare's coming up to the platform.
>"Oh, Brun, I didn't think you'd get over your haze so fast" Bronn greets her with a quick nuzzle.
>"Brother... I still can't believe you're here" Brunhilde walks a bit more happily to the edge. "Incredible... did you ponies talk about secret plans without me?" She quickly snarks back at you with a cheeky tail flick. "Or what to do for the rest of the day, at least?"

>>28731984
Maybe a little. Also thinking of training our magic and tomorrow we go to get some monster loot.

>>28731984
Almost want to spend it right here. Wouldn't mind some light sparring with Live. I've been training my horn alot lately but not the rest.

>>28732012
>>28732029
"Maybe a little" you smile and turn back to the magnificent view. "Although I'm tempted to stay here the rest of the day."
>"Don't. It's been messing with my health. The only reason I'm here is to watch in case something happens" Bronn shakes his head.
>"What happened to you anyway?" Brunhilde asks him.
>"They rattled me out. After months of spying on them, some maidenponies found out about my research on the court. I was chased by soldiers, from Artul to Imr... then they got me, and left me for dead."
>"Brother..." Brunhilde covers her muzzle with her hooves.
>"Hey, I'm alive, am I not? I met Pathfound while he was on a trip to get supplies for the next half year, and he offered me help. The vantage position over the entire North helped me decide a little quicker."
>"Well, you better rest yourself, because you're going to make good use of your legs COMING BACK HOME WHERE YOU BELONG!" The mare shouts in her brother's ears.
>"B-Brun, I don't wanna miss the action...!"
>"You've had more than enough action! You'll think twice before leaving your cute little sister and your father alone again!" She gives him a hug, this time with a bit of malice.
"Sheesh... anyway, I was thinking about training. I've done a lot of magic, but not so much physical" you look at Live Fire. "What do you think, how about some three way training? We can spar and learn about each other's tricks."
>"I... I'm up for it. Yeah" Live Fire looks at you a bit too serious.
>"Sure, I guess..." Brunhilde accepts.
"Then let's go somewhere more comfortable. Tomorrow we could go find some monster loot for the sisters, don't you think?" You ask the others. After a general agreement, you leave the platform and find a nice room to practice.

(1/2)

>>28732176
>Bronn leads you to an empty hall without furnishings and decides to stay and watch. Since he's still in recovery, he dares not fight, but he takes note of how much yours and Brunhilde's magic have grown since you trained together.
>With Live Fire, you train your body to try and keep up with the cragmare, which proves impossible. She's certainly faster, more agile and more alert than before. Long past is the filly you managed to defeat in battle, when she was just a rookie. Trial by fire, monster after monster, your little group of friends is turning into a small squadron of death.
"Huff... huff..." you pant on the floor after a whole session of training. "I think... I'm done."
>"Bravo, ponies, you sure blow half the Aurorian army to pieces!" Bronn claps.
>"I'm Aurorian though..." Live Fire mutters ever so slightly.
"I hadn't noticed any change... then again, we've been fighting monsters and superpowered ponies on a regular basis."
>"Hmm, yeah... hey, Knit, would you mind finding us some water to drink? Oh, brother, you can go too" Brunhilde speaks from the floor.
>"Me? Why...?"
>"Bronn."
>"Yes ma'am. Let's go, Knit" the brown colt brings you out of the room. "I think she wants us out of that room for a reason. Does she have anything going on with the other mare?"

Back tomorrow.

I don't think SUPER anon is here, but in case he might be reading or even playing the CYOA, I'd like to ask you to stop spamming the threads. It's gone far enough and nobody really likes it, not even me and god knows I need the advertising. Again, just checking, even if it's futile, maybe he'd listen for once.

>>28732204
you sayin no one likes this cyoa?

>>28732332
he's saying the guy spamming is a shithead. That's something that's pretty easy to understand. if no one liked it fins wouldn't be writing it now would he?

We have no idea.

I can't wait till our father sees how strong we have become.

Live fire and Brun don't have any kind of rivalry that I'm aware of.

>>28732189
Not that I know of, why? Do you think she has a bone to pick with Live?

have a good night and sleep tight thread.

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>>28732707
>>28733523
>>28734304
"Anything going on?" You're confused. "No, I don't think so... why?"
>"Something about my sister gives me the creeps sometimes. Let's just get some water."
>After a quick trip to the nearest well, you return with a jar of fresh water from deep underground pools, meeting your mare friends back in the room. However, they're now sitting together, talking to each other in whispers.
"We... brought water?"
>"Oh, thank you!" Brunhilde doesn't hesitate, picking up the full jar with her magic alone and taking big gulps. "Want some?" She asks Live Fire.
>"Of course!" The mare replies politely, taking her turn. "You ponies next" she passes the jar back to you and Bronn.
"Uh... are you two alright?"
>" "Why do you ask?" " Both mares reply at the same time, her heads tilting towards each other.
"Uuuh..."
>"It's just, you seem tired!" Bronn helps. "Maybe we should go with the others?"
>"Sure, sure! We've had a lot of training, don't you think?" Brunhilde asks Live Fire with energy.
>"Mhm! We should go to bed, so we can get up early tomorrow! Then we'll go chase monsters!"
>"Good show, partner!"
>"Yay!" The mares walk towards the room together, locking tails and nuzzling each other.
>"What... is going on? Are those two like that all the time?" Bronn whispers frantically.
"No... I mean, we're all good friends, but this is sudden..."
>"Ugh, mares... do you want to go find some food on our own? I'd love to hear some more stories about your mission. I can tell you anything else you'd like."

>>28737903
Sure, let's go look for somewhere to eat and we pretty much told him everything about the mission, try to find and convert ponies to our side and end the war. ask what his weapon of choice is and show him how good we are with our bolas.

>>28737903
Sure. Also tell him about how we met his sister and how important she's been to us learning magic.

>>28737949
>>28737981
"Mhm" you nod slowly, still trying to erase the image you've seen from your mind. "Let's find some place calm."
>You wander around in the dark halls until you arrive at the main canteen. After picking up some rations, you end up bringing them to Bronn's room, which has a table and a couple of chairs.
>Alone with the stallion, you tell him the details about your mission, as well as your route and some of the most interesting parts, such as fighting against the Aurorians at the border, capturing the commanders at the Elder Sister and rescuing Al from the elementals.
"I really have to say that with a group this large, we've all made an effort to help each other out. Without Brunhilde I wouldn't have learned so much about magic."
>"She's always been obsessed with learning new spells, and finding magibeads. Good to know her knowledge could help you" Bronn smiles.
"What was your role before you were sent to the capital?"
>"Unicorns in the tribes are usually reserved for back lines, but I was a shock charger. I had a shoulder lance, with a handle of hardwood and a white spiral around the cone..." the pony leaves his food for a moment. "I couldn't bring it, I hope father took care of it. What did you do? You don't talk as if you were adept at magic."

(1/2)

>>28738112
"Oh, no, I was a trapper. Because of all the monster fighting, I guess I'm more of a warrior" you pick up your bolas and spin them all around with your magic. "These can ensnare running prey, but they're also very heavy hitters."
>"Fantastic. Your talent will probably come more in hoof at the court. Whatever you do, make sure you find our who the traitor is, and seize him. Expose the truth to the king before something terrible happens to the capital."
>After dinner, you leave Bronn's room and head to your own for a night's rest. The next morning, you won't hear the end of Brunhilde and Fire:
>"Tonight we should celebrate! I asked Pathfound and they have some drinks! If we bring them enough loot, they could sell it so they'll give it to us!"
>"That sounds great! Hey everypony, Brun and I want to get drunk after we get the loot!"
>"What exactly happened with these two?" Marion asks under the table. "Nevermind, I don't want to know, somepony make it stop, please."

>>28738116
Can't really think of a reason to stop the good times for them so the best advice I can give is to avoid them. we'll be counting on you girls.

>>28738141
"But I don't really see why stop them. Let them have their fun, isn't that what friendship is all about?" You whisper back.
>"Maybe so, but..."
>"It gets on my nerves!" Clearsoul whispers from the other side.
>"Alright, let's get ready to go down on some monster booty!" Merry slaps the table with her wing. "Don't be so uppity" she shows her tongue at Marion and Clearsoul.
>"Aah, I want the mission to end already..." the pale mare complains.
>After you get your cool matching suits and equipment ready, you go talk to the sisters to let them know you'll be getting loot for them. Afterwards, you find Trinity Jewel coming out of her room nearby.
>"An access to the monster tunnels?" The pegasus looks surprised, with a hint of fear. "I don't know if I should..."
"We can always ask Pathfound, don't worry."
>"B-Buh!" She shakes her head. "If he's going to do it anyway, I suppose... you'll be careful, will you?"
>"Of course! This ain't our first hunt!" Merry shrugs. "Tell us, what kinds of monsters do you have down there?"
>"Mostly goblins and some nasty rock bugs the size of ponies. One of our ponies said he once saw a ghastly blue light going down a tunnel..."
>"Cool!" Aphid nods in disguise. "I'm back to my room" he turns around immediately.
>"Pleease, Aphid, make use of your cool super duper stuff for once!" Merry grabs the changeling, then looks at the rest of you. "Wouldn't it be cool if he helped? We can make a stallion out of him yet!"

>>28738116
I'm stuck between wanting to go fight and get loot but not wanting to handle them. I say we go so we can maybe find out what's up with them.

>>28738295
Yeah let's bring him. We're not always going to be around to protect you aphid and being able to protect yourself is something you'll need.

>>28738295
I've been waiting for him to grow some balls the entire journey quite frankly. C'mon, Aphid! I believe in you!

>>28738346
>>28738395
>Now there's a good idea. You've been waiting long enough to see if some adventure spirit would stick to him.
"Yeah, Aphid, come with us. You should start learning the skills to protect yourself, you know?"
>"I can protect myself! I can hide" the bug snorts.
"That's not really protecting yourself."
>"Real nords stand up and fight alongside their brothers! Death by dismemberment is but one of the many ways to bring honor to land and family, and ascend to the stars!" Merry passionately pulls on his leg.
>"But I am not a nord, am I?" The disguised pony tugs back.
>"...I think you are" Merry stops tugging. Aphid freezes in place. "Right, guys?" She looks at you all with big eyes.
>"Yup" Clearsoul lifts her chin.
>"Definitely so" Brunhilde does the same.
>"Mhm!"
>"Of course."
"Yup" you all lift your chins proudly.
>"I... er..." something seems to click in the changeling. His eyes become focused and his pupils open up. "Fine! I'll go with you, and then I'll die and you'll be all sad for me!"
>"Of course we'll be sad, bugger!" Merry gives him a hug.

(1/2)

>>28738472
>After receiving from Trinity the keys to the door leading into the non habitable levels, you're left on your own devices. The changeling then reverts to his original state, clearly concentrating harder than ever.
"What did you do with your people, Aphid?"
>"I was... a laborer" he hangs his head. "The queen, she didn't think labor was important... when she ordered battle, everyone obeys."
>"This time you're fighting on your own terms, right? Not because anypony's forcing you" Merry claps.
>"Uuuh..."
>On the other side of the door, you meet with total darkness. Your light spells and torches mark the way down incredibly moist, foreboding tunnels.
>"The path splits ahead. I can't even begin to see the whole picture of this place" Clearsoul returns after routine scouting. "It's a maze, it's a star damned maze... What should we do?"
>"We could separate into two or three small parties. The most important thing is to never be alone" Marion points out. "If we move all together, we could cause some noise to attract the monsters."
>"What if too much noise? The hive moves by reaction, like sounds. These might be the same" Aphid is already shaking a little.

Back on Thursday, will help keep the thread up. Sorry for text only, some days I feel I need to concentrate more on writing, and today I was already tired as shit.

we'll split into two groups. Knit, Clear, Live on one.
brun, marion, merry on the other. Both will have a unicorn to light the way and they have good team synergy. Live can distract some monsters while knit fires magic or uses his bolas and clear can back stab them.

Ahpid can go with whoever he'd like but he might be better with knits group.

I hope we're able to get a lot of monster parts for ourselves as well. Those rock bugs might be good material.

beware the spooky blue light. it might be a demon. though if it is we'll be fine because we have the three necklaces with us.

Have a good night page 10.

Think there is anything interesting down here like relics?

>>28747496

>>28750120

>>28738823
"Right. If we separate, no more than two groups. Is everypony okay with that?" Everyone nods. "Good! I suggest Brun and I go in different groups."
>"Wh-What!?" The mare shouts. "Why!?"
"W-Well, because we're both unicorns..." the light in your horn intensifies to signal the reason.
>"Oh..."
"For example, I could go with Clearsoul and Live Fire, I'll be ranged, Fire will be the close range fighter, and Clear will scout and support us. Does that make sense?"
>"Pfft!" Live Fire covers her mouth. "Yes, yes it does" she looks at Brunhilde, who snorts.
>"Then we'll go together" Marion grabs Merry and the unicorn. "Aphid, where are you...?"
>"With Merry" the changeling doesn't think twice and stays with the pegasus.
"Okay everypony, don't go too far and remember the way, we'll meet back here after a couple hours or so."
>"Bye-bye..." Aphid waves sadly, disappearing into the darkness with Brun and the others, while you, Clear and Fire head down another tunnel.
>The ancient passages take on all sorts of shapes, from square halls built by ponies of old, to the most narrow of natural caves and tunnels with suspicious marks. Clearsoul paves the way, phasing through the rock and returning with the position of the closest tunnels and intersections.
>"I found them! A big room, full of goblins" she returns for the twelfth time. "Some of them seem much bigger than others... but they didn't look like orcs."
"A different breed, maybe?"
>"These monsters have been trying to penetrate the magical defenses for centuries, so it's likely they've bred stronger ones" the mare replies. "They have no idea we're here, how should we approach it? Set a trap?"
>"Good old frontal charge?" Live Fire proposes. Clearsoul deadpans at her. "What? We're strong, I know it!"

>>28752261
We could set a net trap so that the first group that comes out is tied up and we can take care of the other half or just attack the ones in the net. Live fire will dive in while we cover her.

>>28752261
A frontal charge, once we know there aren't any traps, to take advantage of the surprise and than we fall back to lure them into a trap and finish them off.

>>28752261
Traps haven't failed me yet. We can have CS draw them out into our trap and then we'll attack.

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>>28752296
>>28752312
>>28752344
https://soundcloud.com/finstheaudio/the-nine-lands-underground
"I have enough rope to make a big net..." you sit and think. "Clearsoul, how many are there?"
>"I don't know, seventy?"
"If we set a trap here, could we take enough of them out to catch, say, half of them?"
>"Why are you doubting?" Live Fire tilts her head.
"I'm just asking. We make the net, leave it here" you point at the corridor ahead, "then rush in, kill as many as we can, and lure the rest into it. I'd be counting on you two for the frontal charge, while I'd use my weapons and magic from the back."
>"Sounds as safe as it could get" Clearsoul sighs. "Let's do it."
>You work on the net, then leave it hanging on the hallway, just about enough to fall if pushed, then you make your way into the room. You turn off your magic light.
>"Right ahead, I think..." Clearsoul speaks. "Get ready to light the scene up, Knit."
"I know. Ready?" You take a deep breath. "Go!"
>You get the light back on and watch the two mares run towards a really, really large amount of monsters. However, their speed and ferocity cannot match that of the two enraged ponies.
>With your lights still up, you summon your weapons, tossing them all around. The monsters notice you, but always too late. No resistance goes up, and you begin using ice spikes as well, perforating your enemies with funky echoes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlLpV2Ge_LY
>"Knit, there's few left!" Clearsoul yells. "We're coming back!"
"Alright!"
>Knowing where the net is, you three dodge it admirably and wait for the monsters to fall. The success is absolute: the net captures them like a huge spider web.
>"Success!" Live Fire grabs Clearsoul by the neck.
"That went better than expected. Let's get these poor souls."
>The gruesome job done, you return to the huge room, to find something glowing in the distance: a faint, ghastly blue light.

>>28752490
Check it out and see what it is.

>>28752490
>Knit makes pewpew laser noises
Fucking sweet.

Cautiously approach light. Oh, and don't forget to loot.

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>>28752500
>>28752551
>"Could that be the thing they warned us about?" Live Fire whispers in your ear.
"Only one way of finding out" you can feel your courage rise, still in a partially battle thirsty state.
>"Knit, don't...!" Clearsoul wants to yell, but ends up sticking to you and Fire... "Hrrmph."
"You know Marion would do the same."
>"I don't need another Marion in my life, thank you very much."
>You approach the light cautiously. It is diffuse and seems to orbit something...
>"Huh? What are you guys doing here?"
>"Iiih! Don't speak right behind me!" Clearsoul jumps.
>"Why, it's just me, your very best friend" Merry laughs.
>"Oh, we came full circle!" Brunhilde, the source of the light approaches. "Look what I learned to do, Knit!" She conjures up a number of little light balls who turn around her horn.
"Pretty nice, Brun" you sigh. "Thank the stars, I was expecting something a bit more demonic."
>"What is that supposed to mean" the unicorn glares at you.
>"Hey, did you ponies did all this?" Marion points at the surprising amount of dead bodies.
"Oh... yeah! Yeah, we did."
>"There must be fifty here!"
>"We killed the rest on a trap, by that corridor" Clearsoul puffs confidently. "Dare I say, we did an excellent job."
>"And for a reason! Do you ponies remember ever being so good?" Merry asks.
"Now that I think about it... we've been getting better at this, haven't we?"
>"I'll say" Brunhilde shoots a ball of light at you. It explodes in your muzzle. "Did you grab the loot?"
>"Nope" Clearsoul states, prompting everyone to help pick up as many monster parts as possible. While there were no rock worms, you get a lot of monster skin and scales.
>"Uh... guys?" Aphid suddenly breaks in. "What is that?"
>He points at the other side of the room. A blue fire creating swirls of mysterious energy draws your eyes into it. Before you realize it, you all feel the strong pull of the blue light, forcing you to move towards it slowly, unable to talk, step by step...

>>28752710
Get closer to it to see what it wants, but get ready to try and put it out with an ice bolt.

>>28752710
Sparkly shiny. We must have it...

>>28752710
Lets ask Tele about it.

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>>28752742
>>28752901
>>28752919
>There's not much you can do, but you can at least get ready to cast one of your super awesome ice bolts! Letting your body go, you concentrate and wait for the moment of exposure. Don't let your lust for loot get in the way... no, so sparkly... must have...
"Tele... a little help, please...?" You summon the last of your mental effort to ask your partner.
""...Pretty. Must, have...""
"Nnnnnnneigh..."
>However, once you're in front of the floating blue flame, something materializes right under it, like dust falling from inside. A mare, translucid and covered in a haze, with oddly large ears and no cutie mark. She looks at you with calm eyes.
>"My goodness, I'm sorry" she closes her eyes for a second, and you feel control of your body returning. "I thought you were monsters bothering brave adventurers. I'm Passifya, I guard these tunnels and help ponies who dare come in."
>"I... excuse me?" Clearsoul approaches. "You... guard this place?"
>"I only make sure adventurers don't get lost. Monsters can't leave this place, and neither can I."
"What are you exactly? If you don't mind" you look at her, then at the flame floating gently above her head.
>"I lived over three hundred years ago, in this very sanctuary" she splits her mane at the forehead: there's the stub of what used to be a horn. "I tampered with magic too much, and bound myself to this place after death. Now I can't do anything but warn brave ponies like yourselves of the dangers this mountain harbors."
>"That's sad..." Live Fire tries to touch her, but her hoof goes right past the mare. "Oops, sorry."
>"I suppose you're here to claim the treasures of the mountain... I'm sorry" she tilts her head for a moment. Her motions are incredibly gentle. "I'll help you in anything you need. There's much of this place to roam and getting lost is easy, specially due to certain artifacts at work."

Back tomorrow.

how many floors would you say this place has? how many artifacts are there and what's the most dangerous one? How much treasure is there? A lot? A little? What's the most dangerous monster that we might encounter here?

So I thought of a reason to visit the library, we can learn how to maybe make potions or how to make a sticky resin.

>>28753795
what potions

>>28752948
We would like it if you were to direct us to any rare loot or monsters to fight.

>>28753422
>>28758002
"Would you mind telling us about this place, then?" You offer.
>"Of course not, I've learned this place like my own soul over the course of centuries" Passifya replies with monotony and a smile.
"Then, how many layers or floors would you say there are?"
>"There aren't floors, the tunnels curve up and down at many points. The maze reaches the bottom of the mountain itself."
>" "Whoa..." "
"Are there many artifacts? What is their purpose?"
>"Oh, there are relics from ancient times. Would you like to come with me? I'll show you something interesting" the mare turns around and walks into the darkness, and this time you follow the flame on your own. "Most of the artifacts left here are useless now. Monsters have absorbed or destroyed them, that's why you should fear them. However..."
>After turning a corner, you're shocked with faint blue light, coming from a hexashaped crystal rod embedded deep in the rock.
>"What is that? It's gorgeous" Brunhilde asks, extending a hoof.
>"Go ahead, it's harmless to ponies" Passifya nods. "This is one of the magical rods keeping the monsters away from the sanctuary. There are a total of one hundred and twelve active, one dying approximately every century."
"Dying?"
>"Six rods have extinguished, but many more remain. Monsters are submitted to their will, so they may not leave the area they encompass."
>"So... we don't take those. Right" Merry puffs her cheeks. "Any actual loot?"
>"Yes, the lower you go, the more pieces of gold and active trinkets you might find. You may start with any shaft. Approximately seven dozen pony lengths under us..." the mare suddenly stops, her smile vanishing for a second along with the blue flame. "Nevermind. You may go where you wish, but mind your provisions" suddenly, she sniffs the air around you. "You smell pretty good."

>>28759010
Alright, we'll be careful. What do we smell like? Let's go down and try to find us some treasure.

>>28759010
Is something wrong?

>>28759041
>>28759043
"A-Alright, we'll be careful" you squint when the blue flame gets closer, the ghost sniffing you. "What do we smell like?"
>"It's you, you have a sweet smell... do you talk with your Grace often?"
"Huh, I do..."
>"It shows. You're more in tune with the stars than the others" Passifya turns towards the others. "Although there's a certain sweetness around here, somewhere..."
>"It might be these trinkets" Marion shows her the three amulets.
>"T-Those are...!" she reacts in shock, leaving her graceful posture for the first time.
"You know them?"
>"In my time, they were already legends. It is said the three demonwards will come together only when there is a need for them..." the mare slowly returns to a pensive state.
"Uh... hey, are you alright? You seem to doze off every now and then."
>"I'm sorry, there are many things in my mind. Perhaps... no" she finally shakes her head a single time. "Would it be alright if I accompanied you? I don't wish for anypony to get lost in the caves."
>"Suit yourself, you'll get a whole view of our sweet fightin'!" Merry flexes her hooves.
>"I think she's keeping something from us. If things get rough, I say we split" Marion whispers at the party.
>You head down, seeking every tunnel heading deeper into the bowels of the mountain. Soon enough, there's a little variety: an area becomes increasingly colder, while another shows distant lights. The area you're in last shows considerable fungal growth.
>"I believe the shrooms grow due to an artifact" Passifya explains. "The others are simply different caves."

>>28759192
I wonder if the monsters down here use the mushrooms as a food source.

>>28759192
I would go down the cold tunnel since we have proper covering to retain our heat. Aphid might not like it though. In that case we can go towards the light. What do you think tele?

>>28759214
>>28759220
"I wonder if those shrooms are a food source for the monsters down here..." you pick up one and smell it. It gives away a rotten stench. "Eugh."
>"Most certainly. However, they weren't here a century ago, or so. Some monster is affecting their growth. Spores, maybe" Passifya explains.
"Tele, what do you think? Can you see anything?" You ask your Grace.
""No matter where you go, a fight is almost certain"" she replies immediately, clear as water. ""However, the fungus area is a dead end.""
"Guys, the fungus area is a dead end. By the looks of these shrooms I'd say we're better off taking another route."
>"How did you know? Did you...?" Live Fire shows interest.
>"Ask his Grace, undoubtedly" Passifya approaches you. "I could almost hear it. There's a nice flow going on between you and her" she sniffs you again. "Mmm, such flow..."
"O-Okay! So, about the cold part..." you look at Aphid. "We have these clothes, but maybe you don't want to go through that..."
>"I-I don't care!" The changeling crosses his legs. "I'm not af-f-fraid!"
>"Come on Aphy, you're doing great" Merry pokes him.
>"Certainly, the glacial caves are the fastest descent" the ghost speaks.

(1/2)

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>>28759398
>"Let's huddle up together and walk on" Clearsoul suggests, and you all form a pile around Aphid.
>"O-Oh, this is nice..." the changeling buzzes. "So much friendship... hnng..."
>"Alright, lover boy, hang in there" Merry rolls her eyes.
>You continue down into the cold caves, the walls soon becoming glassy with starch. The end of the tunnel leads into a massive cavernous region with many different levels, underpasses and bridges above a partially frozen lake, at whose shores you arrive.
>"Oh... this smells like loot" Brunhilde beams her little balls of light around.
>"No, don't!" Passifya suddenly rears her head, the balls coming back and being sucked into the fire atop her head. "I'm sorry. There are creatures here who could feel the warmth of yon light."
>"What kind of creatures?" Clearsoul immediately lays on the ground.
>"Those" Marion points at the top of a mound, a little island on the lake. With the light from your horns, you can see a dog-like creature, white fur and hulking musculature, snoring awway. "Ice brutes. Beats me to know they also lived in caves."
>"These ones are blind" Passifya explains. "But their other senses are magnificent. I can disguise myself, but if you ponies wish to cross without a fight, you must be careful. There might be twenty of them in this cave, and they're stronger than ten ponies."

Back tomorrow. Sorry for the shorter session, today has been exhausting.

>>28759402
Is the lake completely solid or is there water underneath? What sense do they mostly rely on?

Even if they're strong we just need to be fast and not let them touch us. Though Merry and live fire should stay away and let brun, marion and us take care of them.

I hope we're able to kill one because if we can we'll skin it and aphid will really like being able to wear that coat. Or maybe we can wear it as a warning to others. I wanna look like a tribal chief.

>>28759402
Passifya, do you know what other monsters lie deeper withing this passage?

>>28760512
>Or maybe we can wear it as a warning to others. I wanna look like a tribal chief.
That means we gotta earn it by defeating it solo. Having it as a kind of cape/cloak sounds fuckin' kickass.

I wonder if that things monster meat is good.

>>28759496
>>28759816
>>28760512
>>28761853
>You approach the lake with most caution and touch the surface. The water is not frozen, but extremely cold. And wet.
"Neigh..." you shudder. "I doubt the lake becomes more solid at the bottom, so we can't go across without some sort of boat."
>"Is there any way to leave this place by going around the lake?" Marion asks the ghost.
>"Yes, undoubtedly. You must cross the entire room, however, and there are many ice brutes sleeping that I can hear."
"What would you say is their sharpest sense?"
>"Definitely their nose. You shouldn't overestimate their hearing, either, but they sleep heavily. They're not used to being disturbed."
>"In that case, think we could take down one with a surprise attack?" Merry asks. "I bet their fur is worth a pretty penny."
>"You're welcome to try, I can neither stop you nor help you. Just try not to die, please" the mare's ears flop immensely.
>You walk along the shoreline, your magic lights at the dimmest, detecting any other ice brutes you can see. There are ten visible at any time, and at least fifteen in total.
>"What I learned while hunting for brutes with my tribe was" Marion explains, loading the crossbow, "always aim for the neck. They quickly lose the will to fight with a wound there."

(1/2)

>>28765868
"Do you know what other monsters lie down the caves? Anything stronger?" You ask Passifya.
>"Yes, the deeper you go, the more you will find. However, when it comes to brute force, these creatures are among the elite."
>"Hey, that one seems to be isolated" Brun notices an ice brute sleeping way far from the others.
>"We can do it! Marion, do you see his neck?" Merry asks.
>"I think so. Are we really doing this?"
>"Heck yeah!"
>"I'm not opposed, but let's hide" Clearsoul prompts everyone.
>"Yes, let's" Aphid concurs.
>Once the party is safe behind a cold rock, Marion, Brunhilde and yourself set your sights on it. The colt fires a monster spine off his crossbow, a clean impact on the neck.
>The monster wakes up with a whine, echoing all over the cave.
>"Damn, that was too loud!" Marion hides immediately.
>"They're coming" Passifya warns. "They'll be following your smell. I can mask it somehow, but with so many of you, it might not be enough..." she stops talking at the same time you hear a series of loud grows and heavy steps coming towards you, as well as swimming sounds.

Starting early. Please tell me if this is suitable for your schedule, as I think I could fit more updates every night this way.

>>28765878
It's fine for me.
>>28765878
Merry knit and live fire will be the best distraction ponies. Merry can fly and stay out of their reach while we can fire magic and live fire keeps them off us.
brun marion and ahpid will remain hidden and attack them as well.

>>28765955
"Alright... ideas?"
>"We can stay hidden, but it might take too long. Our best bet is to hunt them without letting them get to us."
"Then we need distraction ponies. Merry, you can stay out of range, so you could lead them away safely..."
>"Count on me, but please, pleeease kill them fast" the pegasus beats her wings.
"Fire, I'm sure you can dodge them as well, and meanwhile, Marion could take them out. The last one could me myself..."
>"Forget about that, I'm going" Clearsoul replies, her voice quivering. "It's no good, if there's a pony here who can dodge them, it's me."
"In that case, I'll stay with Brunhilde and Marion and shoot. Aphid, what will you do?"
>"I... I'll stay here and try to help" the changeling bows his head.
>"No need to be a hero, just feel the heat of battle for once" Merry gives him a kiss in the cheek.
>You make your front and back lines and wait for a signal from Passifya.
>"They're here! A first wave of three!" She finally commits.
>"Let's go!" Merry jumps in the air and flies up, while Clearsoul and Live Fire enact a frontal charge. Brunhilde shoots little balls of light all around, which stick to the floors and ground. From there, you can see the large beasts, running on all fours towards you.
>"Remember, hit the neck! Wait for the moment they strike, they'll become slower!" Marion says, his eye already trained on one. A bolt flies, and a brute hits the ground.
"Got it!"
""Seems like battle was inevitable..."" from the furthest corner of your mind, Tele sighs.
"Don't be sad, we'll get out of this alive."
>"Who are you talking to?" Brunhilde looks at you puzzled.
"Whoops, talked to myself."
>The battle progresses nicely, your strategy working and eight brutes falling, until one of them reaches your line. He lunges straight at Aphid, right by your side.

>>28766139
ahpid colt size! Then use magic to push him out of the brutes trajectory. Then we can fight him with our bolas and smack him over the head.

>>28766139
Jump in front of him and use ward to block the blow.

>>28766219
No way, they're as strong as ten ponies and i don't want the headache. Smarter to just push him out of the way.

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>>28766195
>>28766219
>>28766258
>In the brief seconds you have, the first thing that comes to your mind is to charge and use your ward to cover Aphid. However, that thing is ten times stronger than a pony...
"Aphid! Change, something small, like a colt, do it do it do it!!" While you run towards him and think of a plan, you get your bolas spininning and yell at the changeling.
>Aphid concentrates in just a second and begins morphing into something. As soon as the brute reaches him, he goes overhead and lands on the ground deftly, turning for a second pass. It's too fast for your bolas, so you get ready to push Aphid out of the way...
>...and realize you can't, somehow he's become too heavy for your magic right now. The ice brute charges a second time and, to everyone's surprise, he dives head first into a rock, knocking itself out cold immediately.
"What!? Aphid, where are you!?" You look around. You told him to change into a small colt, but he simply disappeared!
>Or so it seems, because the rock the brute crashed against suddenly morphs back into a very jittery bug.
>"That... wasn't good. Ooh no" his legs give up and he falls to the floor.
"Good job, Aphid!" You make sure he's alright, and put the ice brute out of life with several strikes of your bolas.
>Simultaneously, a body goes flying right next to you. It's Live Fire, covered in blood.
>"Ugh... I'm sorry. I can't dodge... Clear and Merry can, but I have no powers..." she loses consciousness, while the battle rages on behind you, Marion and Brunhilde still firing at the oncoming brutes.

>>28766408
Damn. I was hoping having more targets would make it easier for them to move. Ahpid take care of live fire while we fire with brun and marion. That's what his potential job can be. team medic.

>>28766408
Damn you brutes! Let's start tearing into them with our rings.

>>28766408
Heal Live Fire.

>>28766539
I think it would be smarter to beat the brutes and then heal live fire with brun helping. If we concentrate on healing her then we're just leaving our firing line weakened and open.

>>28766563
> It's Live Fire, covered in blood.
What about healing her enough so she's not in danger of bleeding to death or dieing from internal injuries.

>>28766586
Healing requires focus and right now we're in the middle of a battle and if we fuck up we'll be paralyzed, the best we can do is just quickly make or find bandages and wrap up her wounds other wise I would have just said "heal her and throw her back in."

>>28766449
>>28766498
>>28766539
>Dammit, this wasn't supposed to happen! Guess the amount of targets didn't matter much.
"Hang in there, Fire..." You being healing her, and notice the mare's breathing is stable, and nothing seems fatally broken. Your friends still need a hoof fighting the hordes... "Aphid, stay with her and tell me if she does anything odd" you tell the changeling before returning. Aphid stays with her vigilantly, and you resume your task hunting down the ice brutes.
>After long minutes of battle, no new enemies come to meet you. Merry and Clearsoul return, exhausted.
>"There were... twenty one monsters, exactly" the pegasus says before falling to the ground, panting. "I counted them..."
>"Where's Live Fire?" Brunhilde asks, looking around.
"She got hit, and now that the battle is over, I can heal her properly."
>"You mean you didn't heal her before!?" Clearsoul yells.
"This wasn't an amateur battle, okay!? I couldn't leave you with one less member for too long! Besides, I patched her up and she was stable..." you look at Aphid, over on the other side of the rock wall. "Aphid, how is she?"
>"No changes!"
"See? I want Brunhilde's help, if my magic goes out of control at least I'll have her."
>"O-Of course!" The unicorn replies. "Just tell me what you need."
>A fair amount of healing later, you feel Live Fire's organs and bones correct themselves. They still need a few days of rest, but she's out of danger. You relay the results to your friends.
>"Maybe we should stop here. This fight took a toll on us" Marion looks at his ammunition. "I feared burning the skins, so I didn't use any flaming bolts, but I have to collect the monster spines now. Is there anything else you'd like to do, or can we call it quits?"
>"Quits, please" Clearsoul replies, looking at Fire.
>"Quits, after the loot" Merry crosses her legs.
>"If I may..." Passifya puts her hooves together. "Worry about your health. Material goods will never be as important."
>"Pfft, says the ghost."

>>28766630
Ask tele if there is another fight in your future, if there is then you should call it quits and leave. If not then let's keep going and find some treasure, even if the pelts are great loot.
If there is a fight ahead does tele see it being "Easy"? That would be another factor in continuing.

>>28766630
We could always drop the loot and run if we need to.

>>28766630
Collect the skins and any other loot and head back. Make sure that Live is comfortable and to tuck her in.

>>28766682
>>28766756
>>28766759
"It might be good... let me ask my Grace for a moment" somehow, it feels odd telling that to your friends. "Tele, do you see any fights in our future? Any of them look easy to you?"
""Do I?" The mare replies sardonically. "Hmm, let's see... no matter what you do, either you leave now or you'll fight. Easy? I don't know, if you trust me I can help you survive, but can I say the same about your friends? Do you value them or not?""
"That's a toughie..."
>"Knit, it's a no brainer for us" Clearsoul pokes your chest hard. "We're taking the skins and leaving, and if something bigger than us comes our way, we drop the loot and run!"
"F-Fine..."
>You make a quick work skinning the monsters. Their fur, white and dense, is incredibly warm. You have to stop Aphid from wearing the bloody, smelly skins.
>"W-Warm... haaa, hisss..." his viperine tongue exits his muzzle every now and then.
>You also collect a couple of heads, to gift the sisters and as trophies, and begin heading back, with the always present help of Passifya. On the way back, you feel the tug of your friendly marevoice:
""So? You haven't answered yet. What do you think of your friends? Would you keep going despite one of them being hurt?""
"Is it important to you?"
""It's important to me that you know yourself, Knit.""

Back tomorrow. If the new schedule isn't an inconvenience to anyone, I'll keep it. I don't want to screw anyone over, so please feel free to discuss.

>>28766843
Nobody gets left behind unless we're absolutely certain they'd be able to make it back on their own.

>>28766843
Of course not. I love my friends. You should know how much I care for them.

I can't wait for these to be tanned and we'll all be wearing them.

Depending on the injury yes I would keep going because all they would need to do is just stay out of the fight and let me and others protect them. But overall with no hypothetical scenario and variables to influence my decision? No. I'd make sure they were safe.

Friends are a great thing to have.

We got a lot of loot from this. We must tell the ponies that there is a guardian spirit in the mountain.

going to bed bump

>>28766904
>>28766929
>>28767571
>>28768313
"Of course not! You think I don't care about my friends? They're the most important thing to me!" You think as fast as you can. "Besides, if one of my friends was injured, but they could take care of themselves, then I'd keep going as long as we all agree. It's not like we have to foalsit each other."
""So, in this case, with Fire unconscious...?""
"We have no other choice. We can't leave her alone, and everypony else already wants out of here. I can't be selfish."
""Mhm, mhm, you're a big stallion now"" Tele's voice replies, pleased.
"Don't treat me like that, you...!"
>"Uh, Knit?" Merry puts a hoof in your chest, bringing you back. "Are you okay? You're lagging behind, and your face is all red..."
"Huh?" You loo around. In truth, everyone else is far ahead. "Oh, sorry. Just thinking."
>"No, bad pony" the pegasus suddenly boops you. "Strong nords don't think, they act!"
>"Oi, you leave my pupil alone!" Brunhilde rushes to your side and grabs you.
>Taking your time, making sure Fire is alright, you finally arrive at the first intersection you remember. Passifya stands at the edge.
>"It is time to part, ponies. I hope my guidance was satisfactory" the mare says.
>"We appreciate your help. How come nopony told us about you? Surely, other adventurers must have met you before" Marion replies.
>"I would like to ask you that you don't reveal my existence to anypony else in the sanctuary" the ghost closes her eyes, the fire atop her head growing dim. "It is best this way."
>"Oh... well then, thank you for helping us."
>You arrive at the shoddy door serving as connection with the sanctuary, and meet Trinity Jewel immediately behind.
>"Ah, there you are! Goodness, you were away for so long, I was worried you had gotten lost" she looks at you with tired eyes. "Found what you sought in the caves?"

>>28774183
We went in there for monster parts and we have a lot of those so yes. Is there a blacksmith here and where can we find him? Or someone that tans hides?

>>28774183
Pretty much. Our friend here is hurt and needs rest, miss.

After we put Live it bed we can present a brute pelt and the heads to the unicorn sisters.

>>28774207
>>28774220
"We sure did! However, our friend is a little hurt..." you point at Live Fire.
>"Goodness! Is she alright?"
"She just needs rest. Could we take her to her room?"
>With Trinity helping, you leave Live Fire sleeping peacefully on her bed, with Aphid guarding the door, who isn't feeling that well. Meanwhile, you present Trinity with the loot.
>"T-That's a lot of monster loot...!"
"Is there anypony here who could help us tan the skins? We'd like to give you some as a gift, so you can sell them and pay for the sanctuary costs."
>"Well, I think a pony or two here has some experience tanning skins..." the pegasus begins to show some signs of excitement. "Follow me!"
>Going with her, you meet Mountain Echo, a former blacksmith. Odd for a batpony to be so large and dedicated to hoof labor, he takes a look at the skins.
>"Whew! Fresh ice brute skins!" He sniffs the blood ridden furs. "And white too. These are worth a lot outside Auroria!"
"We could pay you if you'd like, but we were thinking of gifting the sanctuary a couple."
>"That will pay for our food big time. Give me just a minute, I must have some of my old tools here..."
>With the rest of the evening, you watch as Echo tans the skins and gives them to you, clean and perfectly straight, retaining the fur. You leave a couple with him, then head back to your rooms, where you meet the sisters.
>"Lookie what we got!" Merry tosses the stuff at them. Goblin hides, monster teeth, furs and an ice brute head. "Hope that's worth a couple balloon rides."
>"Bloody 'ell mates!" Their jaws drop. "That'll buy you a hundred! Eee!"
>"Ah!" Aphid appears around the corner. "Fire is up, she's fine!"
"Thank goodness..."
>"Now that we're even" Brunhilde says, "how about we grab some of the sanctuary's drink and celebrate? I'd love to stay here a lifetime with those books, but maybe we have to think about leaving."

>>28774397
Yeah, we should leave tomorrow. We got everything we came for and then some. We even got these awesome skins and another necklace.

>>28774397
Sure thing. I guess we can leave tomorrow.

I can't participate anymore today, plz don't make any big decisions without me

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>>28774427
>>28774453
"Sounds good to me. We did everything we came here for, right?" You look at Marion and the others.
>"Sure thing, and even more!" The colt shows the triangular amulet, its soft hum gently calming the excitement in your pounding head.
>"Then let's party!" Brunhilde raises her forehooves and kicks them in the air.
>"Did I hear party...?" Live Fire shows up, walking slowly.
"Fire! How are you?" The entire group surrounds her.
>"I'm fine now, sorry I couldn't finish the fight with you..." she seems disappointed.
>"Doesn't matter dear, there will be more battles to fight, and you know that" Brunhilde lunges at her, tackling the little mare in a hug. "Now, you ponies wait in the big living room at the end of that corridor, Merry and I will get the drinks."
>"Oh gosh oh gosh oh gosh...!" The pegasus follows the unicorn, blinded by the spirits. You all put Live Fire up to date while you wait.
>The drinks arrive, as well as some food, and you all have a grand time celebrating. Pathfound shows up at some point, half disappointed he didn't know anything about your going to the caves, and delighted by the expensive skins you've brought back.
>The party goes on far into the night. At some point, you hear Brunhilde whisper in your ear:
>"You..."
"Huh?"
>"Hey, you!" She suddenly surrounds your neck with a leg. "Want to come outside? I saw a quick way back to where we entered!"
"I suppose... it's getting a bit warm in here."
>"Surely it has nothing to do with the five meads you've got on you."
"Shhh... hic!"
>Walking slowly, you arrive at the outside, the moon shining over the mountains and through the clouds.
"Aah, fresh air..." you take it all in.
>"Don't worry, we'll get our fills tomorrow" Brunhilde laughs, walking with a tipsy. "Hey Knit, any plans for when this is all done? Wanna get a mare, have a family, maybe live in one of those fancy walled cities...? Any pony you like?" She asks with a rather sly face.

Seeing as I'm more tired than I thought, and we have a missing player, I'm leaving this as today's last update. Will be back tomorrow, sorry for the inconvenience.

>>28774787
I was writing my post and then my power went out. Dammit! I was having trouble picking between live fire and brun anyway.

I think our plans should be that we explore a little bit more of the north because I'm sure there might have been some places we missed on the tribal side and maybe even visiting another land once.

having a mare to start a family with would be great though I'm not sure about living in a walled in city. we belong outside sleeping under the stars and running around.

the pony we like is a secret.

>>28774664
I would like to see more of the North before returning to my tribe. I want to preserve the old Nordic way of life. I can't help but to feel that the North east of our tribes has completely changed.

I don't think I would enjoy living in a walled city. I would tire of being in the same place for so long. Heh... now a understand when father was so frustrated at times with the war keeping us in once place.

I would love to find a mare and have a nice little family. Yes, there's ponies I like, but there not ponies I know I can spend my life with.

a point for brun would be that our children would have an uncle.
merry would be the funnest mom to have
and live fire would be the warmest mare.

it would be nice to cuddle in the cool night air.

>>28775845
I believe Merry is no longer an option.

As much as it breaks my heart to chose, I pick Live. I think they fit each other better. Hell, the union of Knit and Live could be symbolic of the North coming together again.

>>28777218
I think brun would be better due to being on equal footing with knit and actually throwing advances towards him while live just blushes. plus brun is really dependable and smart. though at the end of the day I don't care too much due to my interest lying in the fixing the north.

I'm afraid there wont be a session tonight, im up to my neck in work and quite stressed. Happy halloweens and than you for your patience.

We must learn to make pancakes like our father.

Visiting cities is nice though not sure about actually living in one.

>>28779346
alright, see ya tomorrow.

Session will start between :00 and :30, to give a little margin.

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>>28775313
>>28775524
>>28783032
"Hmm..." you think, still a bit dull due to the drinks. "I want to keep exploring. Go back home, to the west, maybe visit some other cities outside the North... that's what I want to do. Not sure how a mare fits, but afterwards I could have a family..."
>"Ooh" Brunhilde walks in circles around you.
"I don't think I could stand living inside a city. After all this time... I can kind of understand what my father meant, you know?" You keep turning around to meet her eyes. "I want to see more... and if I had a family, I'd rather they see it with me. But I don't have any pony in mind..."
>"Maybe I can be of assistance" the unicorn suddenly blows air into your ear, giving you the tingles. "You know, when we met, you looked like a wimp, not too dependable..."
"H-Hey."
>"But I saw something in you. I can't tell what it is, but I found you... interesting, maybe. And the more time I spend with you, the more you manage to impress me..." the mare's lips come close to your own a few times, her gaze enthralling you...
>"Stop right there!" A voice suddenly throws you off. Live Fire shows up, trotting from the entrance, panting and blushing. A highlight of water shines under her eyes. "So that was your plan, huh?"
>"Oh, crap" Brunhilde reels back.
"What's happening here?" You look around, confused.
>"Knit, I was looking for you, I..." Live Fire approaches you, shaking a bit.
"Are you alright? It's cold up here."
>"I'm fine, dammit! I wanted to talk to you!"
"Oh."

(1/2)

>>28788003
>"Knit, you might not notice, but Brun and I have talked a lot. About you. About how much we..." Fire seems to have trouble talking.
>"Go ahead, say it" Brunhilde replies with a bittersweet voice.
>"We really really like you, Knit!" The cragpony bursts. "We, I mean, I... I want to be with you. You've never said anything about these things, but I always hoped we..."
>"Hold it now" Brunhilde stops her, then looks at you. "Understand now? Both of us wondered for weeks if you would ever lift your tail for anypony in particular."
"What" is this actually happening? Both of them...
>"I think you deserve a pony like me, Knit" the unicorn continues. "Without a doubt, we could explore and learn about magic and the world. We could form a family, and live happily together. There's something about you that fascinates me..." the mare brushes against your side. "And I want to find out about it."
>"Knit" Live Fire takes a step forward, trying not to cry. "I know I can't force you to choose, nopony can, but ever since the day we battled, the day you saved me, I... I've always looked up to you. I wanted to follow in your steps, and learn more about the world, after we were thrown into this war without a clue. I don't know what else can she give you that I can't, but I know there's a thing I can't give you, and that is loneliness, so please, consider my feelings..." her head hangs high, but the tears are running.

>>28788009
This is tough and will require a bit of thinking.
First of all I think we should talk about this when we're not drunk and both of you should know that I can see myself being happy with each of you. One isn't better then the other.
and you both would like to commit to our exploring plan after the war?

screw it. Pick both. in the long run one of them will quit and do what they'd like and then you can stay with the one that remains. if both leave then there are plenty of other mares in the north.

>>28788181
Or they could choose polygamy.

>>28788009
How cruel of them, making us choose like this.

>>28788181
>>28788197
>>28788199
>Your mind freezes, thinking feels heavy, and you have a nagging feeling from the very start that you shouldn't say anything. This is a very delicate issue, and quite the evil act from the two mares.
"This... I, er... this is a bit cruel, isn't it, you girls?"
>"Hmm? Why?" Brunhilde's head tilts, oblivious.
"Well... I also like you both. I mean, maybe not that way, but since you've offered me your feelings like this, I can only give it a thought..."
>" "Yes!?" " Both mares gather and look at you.
"The thing is, uh... how can I say it... both of you are great, and believe me, I know I'd be happy with either of you."
>" "Yeeess?" " They keep coming closer, why do they keep coming close.
"But... Argh, can't we do this when I'm less drunk!?"
>"Does that mean you don't want to decide right now?" Fire pouts.
"Yes and no! I mean, if it were up to me, I'd choose you both... I can't do that, can I?" You try to pass for a poor little pony with a sad face, but these mares are too cruel indeed.
>"Hoo, I'm not taking any of that" Brunhilde puts a hoof under her chin in a rather malicious gesture. "It's her or me, Knit."
"Then pass. I can't decide on the fly. If you don't want to wait, then you weren't that interested in the first place!" You shake your head. Enough is enough!
>"Huh... I hadn't anticipated that answer" the unicorn scratches her muzzle.
>"Didn't you tell me stallions are simple and think with their genitals?" You hear Live Fire whisper at her friend.
"Oi, I heard that."
>"S-She said it, not me!"
>"I was exaggerating, obviously, ah hahahahaha...!" Brunhilde starts reeling back. "Aaanyway, if you don't want to choose, it's only right we let you think it over! I'm going back in, see you guys tomorrow!" The unicorn immediately trots back inside.
>"I hope she's alright..." Live Fire turns around. "I'm sorry Knit, I didn't mean to offend you, just... I didn't know how to act!!" She blurts out, blushing profusely.

>>28788272
It's alright live fire, you were just diving in head first like a true nord. I'm proud of you.
alright then pick whoever is the better cook. Both of them must make you some food. if the heart can't decide then the stomach will.

>>28788313
That's a pretty lame way to decide.

>>28788359
well we are going to be traveling around and we'll want to travel with someone who knows how to make good food. Or maybe picking the better fighter is better since the north is dangerous. or maybe cuddle with whoever is warmer because of those cold northen nights.

you want your relationship to be practical and lasting. I get the feeling that maybe brun would leave though if she ever got bored with us? or at least is a possibility. "you're so interesting" isn't really a good relationship basis.

>>28788409
>"you're so interesting" isn't really a good relationship basis.
Your a good cook, your a good fighter, your warm and cuddly, and a number of other things that can be determined by short and silly contests are also bad foundations for a serious relationship.

>>28788313
>>28788359
>>28788409
>>28788471
"N-No, no, you did what you thought was right" you raise your hooves defensively. The way the cragpony towers over you sometimes is scary. "You dived head first without thinking about the consequences, like a true nord" you pat her head. "I'm proud of you."
>"Ooh..." she looks at you with the biggest eyes, shining under the moonlight.
"Let's get inside before we catch a cold..." you accompany Fire back into the sanctuary. "Oh, I know!"
>"W-What?"
"I know how to decide now! A cooking contest!"
>"A... cooking...?" The cragpony grimaces.
"Mhm mhm, the fastest way to a stallion is through their stomach! Never heard that?" You say. In truth, your father was full of wisdom.
>"I can't cook well... I think Brun can't either..."
"Oh, well, there are more contests... fighting contest, cuddling contest..."
>"I'd be up for a cuddling contest" Fire blushes with a smile. "But maybe that's too simple? We're more than cuddly toys and food dispensers, you know?"
"I know, I know, but it's just so hard to choose..." you say as you return to the party hall. Everything seems calm and your friends are having several separated conversations. You notice Brun is missing, as well as her brother. "Huh? Where are the siblings?"
>"Oi, you two!" Merry sasses around. "Where were you and what happened to Brun Bruns? I saw her grab her brother and leave like whoosh! Past everypony" she speaks with an obvious drunk accent.

>>28788272
Shit, I totally missed the descsion making. I pick Live Fire. Give her a hug.

>>28788537
FUCKING DAMNIT

TAKE LIVE

>>28788498
They decided to get us drunk and ambush us with a serious question. We gave them an answer they didn't expect.

>>28788537
>>28788546
too late

>>28788564
Bullshit.

>>28788498
Chose Live right now.

>>28788498
she went to talk to her brother about things I guess.

>>28788579
Ok, hold up. We'll choose Live but not right now. We'll get them together after we're sober tomorrow and pick Live.

>>28788579
The question has already been asked and the decision given. If we suddenly change it now it'd only cause pain. Also what reason do we have to choose Live over Brun? The only thing I know about Live is that she was sexualized early on and not much else.

>>28788675
We can't have them both and Live was strong enough to stay and talk with us. Also the stallions are simple and think with their dicks comment. It seemed Brun was trying to seduce us more than anything while Live's confession was much more heartfelt. I admire Live's honest and simple ways. This is all things Knit can ponder till morning.

>>28788564
>>28788579
>>28788591
>>28788622
"Uh, some serious questions here and there. Brun is probably talking with her brother..." you deflect, hoping it's not as serious as it sounds.
>"Hmm... her miss, then. More booze!" The pegasus turns around and goes for another round.
>"I think I'm going to bed... too many emotions for one night" Live Fire shakes her head.
"Let me go with you. Maybe we'll see Brunhilde on the way. I might also go to sleep."
>"Mhm!"
>It's not the magenta unicorn that you meet on your way, but her brother. Bronn walks forward with an odd smile on his face.
>"Oh, it's you ponies" he greets you. "Brun seems to have a lot in her mind. She wanted to talk relationship stuffs with me, can you imagine?"
"Somehow I can..."
>"Anyway, I left her sleeping in her room. She's grown up, but still wants her big brother to tuck her in every now and then."
>"Filly..." Fire whispers. She's suddenly going over her fear to speak up, it seems.
"Well, since we're already here, I might go to bed" you comment, as the door to the Craglands sisters' room opens.

(1/2)

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>>28788827
>"Uh, could you please keep it down? My sister is..." Mathe whispers at you from the door while Bronn leaves. Suddenly, Vera comes out, googles and all. "V-Vera!"
>"SHUDDUP MATHE!" She yells for no reason, randomly rubbing up against you. "Oi, wanna get a quickie in? I'll wew your lads for a fee, and my stuck-up sis can watch, innit?"
>"VERA!" Mathe replies with equal intensity, trying to pry her off your back. "I'm sorry, she never remembers the things she does when she's drunk...!!"
>"We wuz kings 'n bollocks!" The red unicorn sings. "But then we lost them wars...!"
>"Do you ever stop and think we overdo our celebrations? The mission isn't even over yet" Fire looks perplexed.
""I agree. I think you should go to sleep before things complicate further"" Tele advises.
"You're right, both of you. I'm off, goodnight Fire" you give the mare a good, warm hug before going to your room.
>"...Both?" You hear her whisper before you close the door.
>The next morning, you wake up to find your door is stuck. Such a flimsy wooden door, but you can't push it hard enough to open! Something must be on the other side.

Back on Thursday, sorry for the continuous breaks.

>>28788794
We know practically nothing about her. Also, Brun isn't some kind of slut, Have you ever stopped to think that she might just be trying to hard?

>>28788941
Live had a mom and dad and wanted to become a guard to protect the citizens of aurora. so she has a noble spirit I guess? I'm going to need to reread some parts of the beginning to get a better feel for their origins and thoughts.
if I had to pick now though brun does look the better of the two.

>>28788941
>We know practically nothing about her.
We could say the same about Brun. Sure, she may be trying too hard but I like Live's approach better. As I said before; simple and honest.

>>28789011
So you agree that we know to little about either of them to make a major decision like this and that there are reasons to see one just a little bit more attractive than the other?

>>28788987
I think she actually joined her town guard but they sent her to the front.

>>28789038
Correct, they drafted everybody they could and didn't even give them proper training.

>>28789038
I remember her being in training. like she signed up for their reserves or something. wow she tried to impale us with a lance. at least she apologized.
also knit has an interest in magic I remember.

>>28789030
That's fair. I think we could wait before a final decision. I think we should now make steps to know them better since we were previously unaware of their interests.


Still picking Live though.

>>28789282
Well, picking is the wrong word. "Rooting for" is more accurate.

>>28788840
ask if there is a pony on the other side of that door and to please move away so that you can leave.
if that doesn't work try knocking on the door to make some noise so other ponies can hear, and if that doesn't work we're knocking that door down!

>>28788840
Call out to the other side.

someone is plotting for us to stay here longer maybe.

leaving nine.

Remember to exercise bump.

have a good night

hope we're not late for breakfast.

>>28790219
>>28790303
"Hello? Anypony out there?" You call out while opening the door just a little, with effort. Over on the other side, you see a mass of colors piled up. "Hrmph..."
>You try to push the door gently, using all your strength in the process. Little by little, whatever is on the other side gives in, until you manage to peek out.
>Sleeping in front of your door are Merry and Vera, stacked on top of each other and snoring softly, with the casual whinny every now and then. Tankards of different sizes are thrown all around the hallway.
>"What the...?" You hear Marion come down the corridor. "Good stars, Knit, are you alright? I'll help you."
"I appreciate, Marion. I just got up myself."
>"Yeah, what a night, ey?" The colt rolls his eyes, then lays his head next to the mares. "Monster loot" he whispers softly.
>" "Hnng, wew, neigh!?" " Both ponies get up almost instantly, looking around confused. "Wha... what am I doing out of my room?" Merry scratches her head.
>"You were never at yer room, rascal" Vera replies. "I think we dropped roit heah."
>"Your accent is terrible in the mornings" Marion gets up. "Stand aside, you're trapping Knit."
>"Oh my gosh, sorry about that!" Merry opens the door for you. "I suppose we fell asleep right in front of Vera's room..."
>"Yes you did, I tried to pull you back in, but you weigh twice a cart!" Mathe comes out of her room, already properly groomed and with her glasses on.
>"MATHE!!" Vera roars, giving you a headache. "I did done taught yer some manners, didn't I?"
>"Shut up, you lazy, drunken horse!" Mathe grabs her sister by the neck, rubbing against her.
>"Yer used to be such a gentle pony..." Vera complains.
>"Because I don't let you yell at me anymore? Slim pickings" Mathe neighs.
>"Well, I hope everypony's not hangover, because we should discuss whether or not we leave today" Marion replies. "The others are gathering at the hall where we celebrated yesterday" he says before leaving.

>>28802067
There is nothing for us here so we should go. We mustn't waste a minute in uniting the north!

>>28802067
Have a pang of dread seeing those two mares. Who thought having us drunk when they confronted us would be a good idea...? Anyway, I'm game to leave if everyone else is.

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>>28802089
>>28802221
https://soundcloud.com/finstheaudio/witn-northern-adventure
"Alright!" You pick up Merry with energy. "Time for us to go. Let's get breakfast and say goodbye to the sanctuary ponies!"
>"Ya sure? We won't have time to come back fer a while" Vera says.
"We're sure. We have a mission, and we won't come back either."
>You have breakfast with your friends and inform them of your resolution. Everyone's of the same mind, so there's no discontent. Brunhilde and Fire are oddly silent, looking everywhere except at you. However, you can't help but feel dread whenever they turn their heads. How did you suddenly get so concerned about what they thing about you? They're just two young, cute, soft, enticing... neigh.
>"You're going? That's too bad, I'll miss my little sister" Bronn takes the news. "As soon as my rehabilitation is done I'll come down the mountain."
>"You better, father and I will wait for you" Brunhilde gives her brother a long hug before departing.
>"I hope your stay here was satisfactory. We're not great hosts, but the mountain always provides" Pathfound reacts with similar calm.
"Are you kidding? It was great! We got a lot of loot, and saw the beauty of this place. Thanks for everything you've done."
>Halfway through the morning, the balloon is set to go. Brunhilde takes a while to finally let go of her brother, but once everyone is inside the large basket, the sisters get to work, and the transport lifts up in the sky.
>You and your friends wave at Pathfound and Trinity Jewel one last time, while the balloon soars high, avoiding the peaks of the mountains. A little while after, Brunhilde and Live Fire approach you.
>"Um, maybe it's a bit late, but we..." Fire looks at her friend, who nods with half closed eyes. "We wanted to apologize if last night was a bit... awkward. We know the mission is important, but we can wait for your decision... well, I know I can" she finishes, while Brunhilde refuses to speak.

>>28802259
We accept your apology and offer one of our own, we're sorry for not giving an immediate answer. I would like to spend time with each of you alone if that's alright. Dates! Then we should be able to make a decision.

oh yeah let's check to see if our connection to tele is weakening.

>>28802259
It's alright. It was just a huge surprise for me. I'd still like to talk to the each of you privately when we get the chance. You're still both my friends either way, okay?

After that I say we try to clear our head by taking in the scenery by the edge of the basket. Kinda wish Father was here so we could talk to him.

>>28802297
>>28802313
>>28802322
>Oh, wow. You weren't expecting that.
"It's alright, apology accepted" you reply with a smile. "I also wanted to apologize, for not being able to give you an answer. I've realized I don't really know as much about you two as I'd like."
>"Oh?" Brunhilde finally shows interest.
"Yeah, I want to talk more with you girls, each one separatedly, and learn more about you. How about it? We can go on dates!"
>" "D-Dates?" " They both reply with surprise.
"What's so bad about it? Before saying which pony I like, isn't it obvious we should get to know each other better? Besides, if I have to part with one of you, I want it to be on good terms, like friends."
>"Oh, Knit..." Live Fire melts. "I'll go on a date with you whenever you want."
>"Me too!" Brunhilde pouts.
>After that's settled, you enjoy the view of the North from a bird's perspective, letting your mind clear. If you close your eyes, you can imagine your father is down there, looking up at you...
>"Pretty good view, huh?" Merry flies around the basket. "Never been so high up, wait until we tell everypony else in the tribe about this!"
"Yeah!" You nod, going back inside the basket. The mountain with the sanctuary becomes further each time you look. Which reminds you... "Tele, hey Tele, how's our connection going? Are we losing strength outside Demonview?"
""I'm afraid so, your words are slower"" the voice takes quite a while to come back.
>"Wew, what's that bloody noise down theah?" Vera suddenly asks, taking a break by the side of the basket.
>"What? Oh... that must be the Trader's Hub!" Clearsoul specifies. "Look everypony, they're coming to greet us, a few pegasi soldiers!"
>"They're... kinda coming too fast, innit?"
>"What? Oh... oh no, oh please no...!" Clear looks at the balloon's tarp and then down again. "W-We're not enemies, we... we need to do something!"

>>28802499
Fly the Aurorian flag we have with us. Maybe they'll not immediately try to fight.

>>28802499
We just need to talk more with tele and in time the connection will get stronger.
Merry try to fly close to them and see how they react. Be as friendly as possible and say that we're auroians.

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>>28802519
>>28802523
"Damn! Merry, get closer to them, try to tell them we're Aurorians!" You shout at your friend, who nods and flies towards the ground.
>Approaching the edge of the basket, you manage to see them: three armored pegasi flying up as fast as they can. The distance between you and the ground is still positively lethal.
>Rummaging through your inventory, you find something you thought you'd never end up using: the Aurorian flag you took as loot, quite a while ago. Pulling it out, you wave it at the approaching soldiers.
>"Stop, don't attack! We're Aurorians, really!!" You hear Merry shout.
>"They're Aurorians! Destroy them!!" One of the soldiers replies.
>"Oh, for crying out loud..." Clearsoul smacks her face. "They're nords..."
>Hiding the flag doesn't alleviate the incoming attack: one of the ponies dashes past the others, skips Merry and goes for the balloon, slicing it on two points and leaving you behind.
>"Lads...!" Vera tries to warn you, but the result is evident: the balloon begins to fall at an alarming speed.
"Merry...!" You try to locate your pegasus friend: she's being held by the other two soldiers, angrily arguing with them. But it lasts only a second, as you keep falling down extremely fast. "Oh crap oh crap oh crap...!" You yell in between your friends' shrieks.
""Knit, your friends, work together! You can still make it!!"" You hear Tele's voice faster than a thought.

>>28802760
what are we supposed to do tele? also if i survive this i'm going to kick all those pegasus asses. we could have been civilians.I'm also surprised there are even nords this side of the north. use your telekinesis to sew the hole in the balloon then try to steer it like a parachute?

>>28802760
>They're Nords
You have to be absolutely shitting me. Nord or not we're going to find this pony and beat the shit out of him if we live.

No fucking clue. I'm blank.

>>28802809
>>28802826
"W-What am I supposed to do!? TELEEEEEEEEEE...!!" You yell internally as the balloon plunges downwards. If you survive this, you'll make sure that those pegasi don't.
>"We need to... we need to close those holes!!" Mathe replies, looking for something down a hatch in the basket. "Sewing kit!"
"I'll help!" You approach the mare, carefully moving to not get blown out of the balloon with your falling speed.
>Between the four unicorns, you manage to steer the large needle, but sewing will take too long.
>"Feck! We need a patch or somethin' innit!?" Vera cries.
>"Patch... aha!!" All of the sudden, Aphid jumps and extends his wings, flying towards the hole. Soon you notice the balloon becoming less excited.
>"What...? Wow! Great going, Aphy!" Live Fire exclaims. The changeling has become some sort of fabric, and is somewhat holding the hole together.
"Let's steer the balloon down! Everypony to the same side!"
>Working together, you manage to steer it out of the Trader's Hub, but all around you, there's nothing but plains.
>The crash happens, and fortunately, it ends up being more of an annoyance than a real threat. You all jump around, flail, whinny and snort all over the basket, hooves landing on ribs, plots landing on faces, and generally forming all sorts of chaos and incredibly bothering bruises.
>Finally, the tumbling stops. You set hooves out of the tipped basket, shaking like crazy.
"I, buh, wah..."
>"Me too" Brunhilde whispers, trying to hang on to something that isn't there.
>"Oooi!" You see another group of soldiers coming your way. However, you recognize one of them. "It's... It's you!! What the hay did just happened here!!" Commander Storm Flier approaches you with careful hooves, scratching her body in the process.
>"Waaaah!! Commaa-aa-andeer!!" You hear Merry cry as she comes down, escorted by the soldiers. "Tell these ponies we're on your sii-ii-ide!"

Back tomorrow.

>>28802976
Tell these damned bastards to stand down! Find me the fucker that ripped our balloon! I'm going to stick my hoof so far up his ass he'll taste whatever shit I stepped in yesterday! That son of a whore!

>>28802976
HOW THE HELL ARE THESE GUYS HERE ALREADY!?!

>>28802976
Neigh angrily and raise your voice menacingly demanding to know who it was that knocked you out of the air. Somepony is gonna lose consciousness for a few hours.

Start spinning those bolas.

There will be retribution!

>>28802976
The issue not only is that it was a dumb and rash decision on the pegasus' part, but that it put Knit in a position where all of his friends were in mortal peril and he was utterly powerless. He could not figure out a way to save them. What a personal nightmare this had to be for one of the Tower.

Of course all this personal introspective is going to hit Knit later. Right now all he knows is that he's mad as hell.

They're even part of the united north aurora team. they must have been attacked constantly to think attacking us should be their first response.

Charge at the soldiers that came with merry with a strong nord battle cry!

>>28805920
Or we could not. I would rather just challenge the one that attacked us.

>>28803061
>>28803193
>>28803354
>>28804006
>>28804658
>>28805232
>The moment you see them come, your body acts on it's own. How long has it been since you fell? They're already here!
"COME DOWN!! Come down right now! Whoever it was that smashed our balloon, show yourself right now!"
>You pick up your bolas and begin to spin them above your head, so fast that you can feel the air crackle with electricity.
>"Whoa, Tight Knit, calm down, what's this all about!?" Storm Flier steps in front as the pegasi land. "Hey, you three! Let her go, are you crazy?"
>"B-But ma'am...!" The lead pegasus replies, taking off his helmet. "W-We saw an unidentified contraption...!"
"And you didn't stop to confirm who we are!? I'm going to stick this hoof so far up your arse, you'll taste the shit in your mouth! Neigh, NEIGH!!" You bark at him, your bolas already generating enough pressure to crack the ground under your hooves.
>"Is it true!? Did you attack ponies without asking for identification!?" Storm Flier unfolds her wings, covering your field of vision.
>"W-Well, we... you see, commander, it was our first assignment..."
>In that moment, Merry kicks one of the guards and runs behind her mentor.
>"We're sorry...!"

(1/2)

>>28809080
"You should have been sorry the moment you decided to attack us! Do you even know how hard it is to try and sew a tarp in the middle of a neighsand height fall!? I couldn't, I couldn't...!" You couldn't protect anyone in time. That's what's really in your mind, the reason you feel a failure as a Tower. You need retribution.
>In that moment, a new arrival walks past you and Storm: commander Liza Ironbreaker. She takes her side with the three pegasi, placing her hooves under their necks.
>"C-Commander..." the blonde spokespony says. "We're sorry, we won't do it again..."
>Liza smiles tenderly, then grabs the three ponies tight with just her hooves. Raising them in the air, she arches her body back and slams their heads against the ground. The shockwave throws your bolas to the ground.
>"T-T-Triple suplex! Impossible, it can't be...!" Live Fire's jaw drops.
>"Take these ponies into custody" Liza orders some soldiers accompanying her. "Oh my goodness, this is the worst" she then covers her face with her hooves.
>"You know we'll have to charge them later, right?" Storm Flier tells her. "And suspend them from dessert indefinitely."
>"I know, I know, but there are no excuses" the large cragmare walks towards you. "I'm responsible for these ponies' lack of discipline. Tell me anything you need, we'll make our first priority to help you. We bring medics and soldiers to carry anything and anypony."

>>28809083
Was anybody actually hurt? I think all we need is to be brought up to speed on whats been happenning. I thought they'd still be working in the south.

>>28809083
Let's get every pony examined and we'll need cloth to sew that hole. Also thank ahpid for being key to saving your life and ask him if he can transform into anything he wants. first a rock and now this? Could he turn into a steel pole?

>>28809083
Ask the two unicorns over there what they need.

>>28809135
>>28809139
>>28809143
"We... is anypony hurt?" The first thing that comes to your mind is checking up on your friends.
>"Some bruises here and there... I think we need general rest" Clearsoul looks at everyone. "Aphid... Aphid!"
>You notice the bug is laying on the floor next to the balloon, disguised as the red colt. Despite the pain, you run towards him.
"He passed out..." and yet he even managed to disguise himself before the fall. What a guy. "This pony needs help, and the rest of us need patching up. The sisters..." you see them over on the other side of the basket.
>"My balloooon...!" Mathe cries a river while Vera pats her back.
"We also need cloth to sew up those holes! And dessert, lots of it."
>"Oh, you'll have it" Liza raises her eyebrows. "Everypony, listen up...!"
>While the commanders direct the soldiers, you ask everyone how they feel. Other than a series of very bumpy bruises, nobody's suffered anything fatal. Except Aphid, who you can feel took a rather nasty hit with your healing magic.
"I can't do much for him..." you hang your head low. "Dammit...!"
>"Knit, don't cry..." Live Fire approaches you.
"I'm not -sniff- crying...!"

(1/2)

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>>28809361
>"Eh, I feel it's all my fault" Merry approaches and pulls you up for a hug. "I didn't even stop them in time. Damn, I feel useless..."
"Me too..."
>"It was our fault, end of the discussion" Liza comes back. "Dammit, why are there so many badly trained rookies!?"
>On the way back, the commanders explain what has been going on.
>"Our takeover went out smoothly. The communities of the lake and around the rock plains accepted us with open hooves, and we took out a couple of elites along the way."
>"You ponies even managed to get the leader of the direwolf riders on our side before we did! We heard everything from him" Storm Flier compliments your effort.
"What about that zealot, the super fast mare?"
>"Comet? She's not good enough for an entire army, plus me" the pegasus smiles. "She must be hiding somewhere, since we control the Trader's Hub and the Step now."
>"Nopony is sending any messages to the capital. The court doesn't even know we're here. This is our perfect time to..." However, the cragpony's words get lost as you hear another voice call for you.
>"Knit? Knit, is that you?" Turning around, you see something that almost feels unreal. A very familiar face, golden hair with black streaks, strong shoulders...
"Fa...ther..."

>>28809367
Oh wow. Ask what he's doing here and give him a hug. Tell him he was right, exploring the north is fun and it's amazing. We must end the war so everypony can go anywhere they please.

>>28809367
So they teleported here? I wouldn't think spending a few days a Demonview would allow them to not only catch up, but pass us.

>>28809367
Big big hug. Ask him how he's been.

Definitely going to talk to him about our mare situation later.

>>28809390
>>28809402
>>28809480
>Your legs move on their own, each step getting you closer to the goal. Without words, you and Thunder Night fuse in a hug that shatters the earth around you.
"Father... father, I've missed you..." you can only whisper.
>"Knit, my dear child... you've grown up" he tells you once you separate. It's true, you're almost level with him now.
"Oh... I hadn't realized."
>"Some things are only apparent when you come back home. That's why it's important to do so."
"What are you doing here? I thought you'd stay at the post."
>"Well, I'm not in charge, and we were drafted to help cover this part of the North, so me and Scrambler are here..."
"Scrambler is here too!?" You gasp, anticipating the sight of the minotaur. Oh, how his face will look when he sees you progress with the bolas...!
>"Hah, yeah! And how are you and your friends? Everything alright?"
"Well, we had an incident with some soldiers right now... but we're alive. We've explored so much... you were right, about everything. We need to see more world, when this war is over, it's so amazing! How are you?"
>"Things were boring, but monsters show up in larger numbers, so my head count is going up!" Your father flexes a hoof instinctively.

(1/2)

>>28809591
"Father..." you take a deep breath. "It's really good to see you."
>"You too, son. You too" every other word fades, a single stallionly tear and a virile pout coming out of both of you.
>While Thunder Night heads back to his own duty, promising to meet you later, you head back into the great expanse of tents, all sizes, colors, smells and sounds assaulting your senses.
>"How did you get here so fast?" You hear Marion ask.
>"We spread earlier, but Liza came back here to plan the final push. We were actually just a day or two behind you, don't you know? It was a very, veery forced march for such a large army."
>"Wow..."
>You're left on the outher ring of the hub, in a medical tent set up for soldiers. There aren't many patrols, as Liza explains, there's just the right amount of soldiers spread over such large terrain.
>"Wow, I feel like shite..." Vera lays down outside. "You lads go ahead, I can wait... zzz..."
>"Did she just...?" Clearsoul asks.
>"Yes, she heals faster this way. Bugger me how it works though..." Mathe rolls her eyes.
>You all enter the tent and wait to be attended, Aphid taking priority. Meanwhile, you can finally let your mind clear and think about what to do, there's so much! Speaking with father, neighing at the noob soldiers again, talking plans with the commanders, dates, visits, training, sparring, buying, selling, eating...

>>28809610
We must introduce our father to tele or at least informing him of her presence. He might think it's cool. We should also show him how much we've advanced in magic.
We should take brun out on a date and then live fire the next day. We can find out if either likes the night or day better. In between we can talk to the commanders in the evenings or afternoons.

>>28809610
I think those soldiers got their punishment. I'm satisfied.

First is talking to commanders as to the next step. After that we can worry about personal stuff.

>>28809660
>>28809706
>While you all queue to be healed, you decide on your priorities. Talking to the commanders should be essential, however...
"Hey, girls" you approach Brunhilde and Live Fire. "How about we choose these days for our dates?"
>"D-Dates, already?" Brunhilde jumps. "I didn't expect that soon..."
"Well, we need to rest and prepare for the final push of the mission. Before that, I could spend some time with each of you. If we learn more about each other, we'll be better united to take on the citadel, and then I'll be able to choose."
>"I-I'm fine with whatever!" Live Fire blurts out, looking suspiciously at the unicorn.
>"O-Oh yeah, me too!" Brunhilde won't bring herself down.
"Great. Then let's start today! Brun, wanna go first?"
>"Actually, how about we wait until tomorrow?" The mare tilts her head. "We're all pretty beaten up..."
"But we're getting healed..."
>"I don't want disadvantages, dammit!" The mare pouts.
"O-Okay..." Weird, these mares are weird.
>After getting a good patching up with bandages and healing magic, you head out and take a look around. The army camp is right outside the actual trading hub, so it's not hard to find your father and Scrambler.
>"Heey, kid!" The minotaur picks you up effortlessly, tossing you around. "How ya been!? Your muscles are tougher, stringier!"
"S-Scrambler, please, I just came from a crash...!" You can feel the bruises burst again.
>"Ah hahah, that should be nothing for a pony as hard as you!"
>"Scrambler, don't be an arse" Thunder Night helps you come down. "Are the wounds serious?"

(1/2)

>>28809909
"Not really, but I do need the rest... hey father, can you imagine I started communicating with my Grace?"
>"Your Grace? Is that even possible?" He looks at you with a surprised smile.
"It is! Her name is Tele, and she watches over me, gives me directions sometimes...!"
""I've known this since you were born, because I was there, but your father a cutie"" Tele tells you right now. You can almost feel her smacking her lips lewdly.
"...and she thinks you a cutie" you end, puffing your cheeks and looking away.
>"Is that so?" Thunder Night laughs awkwardly. "I hope she doesn't misguide you. I don't know a whole lot about Graces, but it looks like you've become quite the sought after pony, with all these friends!"
>After memorizing where your father and Scrambler sleep, you go to the main tent. Liza and Storm Flier are discussing plans there. The three pegasi that assaulted you are prisoners in a portable iron cage, looking sullen and defeated.
>"...we can't try that, they'll definitely see us come. Oh, Tight Knit!" Storm sees you first. "Come in! We'd love to hear what you've been doing since the last time we met!"
"I can tell you everything, but first I'd like to know about the current plan. We're going after Artul and the king, aren't we?"
>"Yes, but to reach the capital, one can only fly for a very long period of time, or use the Step, which takes days to climb and isn't wide enough for more than two ponies or a cart" Liza shakes her head. "Damn it, Janos, even the most basic things became a pain in the flank later..."
>"Do you have any plans regarding the mission?" Storm asks you. "Liza told me you were asked an... optional assignment, of sorts, regarding the queen. Otherwise, the main plan would be to capture Janos Thundervalor and have him capitulate, or at least agree to a temporary government to fix this broken North and drive the monsters away. Any ideas?"

Back tomorrow.

>>28809919
>Choosing to make promises about dates before we know if we're needed for the mission.
Hell, we didn't even talk to our father about our relationship problems before diving in head first and making promises we might not be able to keep. We should send a small party up there first to figure out what's going on up there and find a way to get the rest of our forces up without raising the alarm. Otherwise it'll devolve into an actual battle until one side is defeated.

If only we had a balloon that wasn't popped.

>>28809919
Tell them about the information we gained from Bron. I suggest they let us try to infiltrate first. Have a unit of their best pegasi at the ready and on watch. If anything goes wrong we'll send up one of our fireworks. Maybe we can use the sister and their balloon somehow. Say we found them to coming into the North and wanted to bring them as prisoners to the king, along with the balloon to research this captured magic tech? Just an idea to pitch. They'd know Aurorian protocol much better than us.

Try to gather intel of the city.

>>28809919
How about we ask Live then? We got at least one day of nothing but resting up ahead of us.

>>28815684
>We're most likely going to be needed for a mission soon so lets date my waifu for reasons.

>>28815703
I thought we were resting a day or so. If Brun doesn't want to why not go with Live? Seems like good time management to me.

>>28815802
It's a day of rest for everybody and would it be okay to date one and not the other? Also, would such an impromptu date really do Fire justice?

>>28815838
I still plan on dating Brun. I believe in being fair to both of them. What do you mean, "do justice?"

>>28815881
We just arrived in a place we know nothing about, we don't have a full day, and none of us are at 100%.

>>28815916
Alright. I just thought we'd ask since we already asked Brun. I figured you don't have to be at 100% to spend time together and that this is possibly our last chance to do something like this. I suppose we need more information and what the plan we before doing anything. You're right.

>>28810100
>>28810949
>Before you dive right into the planning, you tell the commanders everything you've learned from Bronn.
>"A malicious agent?" Liza taps a hoof on the table. "Can I hope... If that were the reason Janos stopped being himself in the first place..."
>"That means you have a clear objective now, don't you?" Storm Flier asks you.
"Yes, but we won't be able to do much if your armies storm the city. First, you might want to send a small recon team."
>"Isn't that your job?"
"Eeeh... Maybe we should go first, yes. But have your best pegasi standing ready for a signal, before you move the troops in. We need to get the forces up before the alarm is sound."
>"Yes, or we will risk being stalled at the gates. The Plateau is no place to conduct a siege... say, could you use that flying balloon you came in?"
"If it can be repaired. But their owners aren't actually nords, they came from the Craglands and sort of bought our silence with balloon rides."
>"Are they prospectors? Scouts?" Liza shows interest.
"They want to research monsters. They're summoners for the Craglands court."
>"Everypony would pay a pretty silver for the monsters that are showing up here" Storm Flier pouts. "Very well, try to convince those ponies, and we'll repair their balloon. We need to start planning how many forces to withdraw from..." the pegasus and Liza turn away from you, deep in concentration over their maps.
>Coming back to the medical tent, you meet with Vera and Mathe and explain the situation.
>"WHAT!?" Vera roars. "Goin' to the capital? We already got shot down bloody once, dint we?"
"Well yeah, but you'd really be helpful! We could stage something like we captured you and brought you here...!"
>"Wait, wait, that sounds more dangerous than we arranged for" Mathe stops you. "We can take you wherever you need on the balloon, but we can't land in a hostile city just like that. If you want us to stop there and not turn back, you'll need a more convincing plan."

>>28816076
They're from the court aren't they? Why not have them pose as ambassadors coming here to restore relations and try to reopen trade routes.

>>28816144
Not a bad idea. Flying the Aurorian flag is sure to help on our approach. We're going to need Aphid to be small and hidden. Able to flawlessly impersonate anything or anyone; he'll be our secret weapon inside the castle fortress. All that's let is to explain who we are and what we're doing with the two. Hunters that they picked up and decided to escort them? Bargained to pay them in exchange for quick travel?

>>28816193
The North is becoming a very dangerous place so either story works. If the sisters get rejected and told to leave the escort story might cause problems though.

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>>28816144
>>28816193
"A convincing plan, you say?" You try to think something up in the spot. "Oh, oooh! I got it! How about you take advantage of your status as members of the Craglands court?"
>"Howzzat?" The mares tilt their heads in the same direction simultaneously.
"Just show up and say you're ambassadors, and that you wish to reopen the borders for whatever reason, to open trade routes, anything. Everypony here has been hoping for some time now, it might just work!"
>"Good going, but what about you and your friends?" Mathe raises a point.
"We could just say you bargained with us, that we're hunters who protect you from the monsters."
>"Hmm... doesn't sound like a bad plan, lad" Vera takes her googles and looks at them. "Thing is, the balloon..."
"They'll patch it for you, don't worry."
>"I'm still mad about it" Mathe puffs a single cheek. "Can we expect it not to be blown out a second time?"
"Well, to signal our approach, we could use the Aurorian flag I have. If we fly it out in clear view, maybe they..." you begin to look in your bags, suddenly realizing something. "T-The flag..."
>"Oh boy, don't tell me" the green unicorn sits down. "You've lost it."
"I-It was here, I swear! Last time I pulled it out... oh" you remember. "It might have flown away when..."
>"When we went to shite, aye" Vera raises a brow.
>"In any case, the plan sounds credible, but we could do with some more reassuring..."
>"Or a whole lotta ale."
>"Vera!"
>"Mathe!"
>You leave the two arguing horses and turn towards the great expanse of tents and busy ponies. The day begins to fade into the evening, and you just realize with a growling pain that you haven't had nothing to eat because of the incident.

>>28816309
This settlement has bee Aurorian until just recently. They should still have flags since burning all of them would just have made a scene and made it impossible to pretend should anybody come down to check.

>>28816309
The urge to punch something has slightly awakened in me. Let's go find a mess and start eating a bigish meal. Tell Tele we're going to be counting on her big time soon.

>>28816309
Damn, I wanted that flag as a keepsake. Ask Merry if she minds looking for it from the air for us. Anywho, let's see if we can't get some grub with father and have a proper talk.

>>28816351
>>28816381
>>28816433
"Hrmph..." you grumble. While hungry, you're also concerned about the flag. Maybe there are some spares you could get from the military here... or someone might be selling at the hub.
>While you walk aimlessly, looking for a good grub, you meet with your friends again. Everyone is patched, and Aphid is back on his hooves.
"How're you, hero?" You pat him in the head. "We owe you a lot for what you did."
>"P-Please, I did it because I was scary... scared, of dying myself. I didn't think" the red colt hangs his head.
>"You still saved us, anypony would have acted out of instinct, but only you had the skills to help us clear that hole" Merry ruffles his mane.
"By the way Merry, I lost the Aurorian flag while we fell, and it might serve us for the next mission, so would you mind looking for it when you have the time? I'll see if somepony has a spare around here in the meantime."
>"Fine, I need the workout" the pegasus rustles her wings with pride. "Boy, I'm starving!"
"Me too! Do you know where the grub is?"
>"Over there. Let's knock ourselves out and relax. We've been through enough today" Marion points at a large tent in the distance.
"You guys go ahead, I need to find my father!" You run, decided to have a talk with him over some food.
>"Sure son, I'll go with you, even if it's a bit late for lunch" Thunder Night laughs heartily. "I'll just have an ale, nothing better to sit down what I had."
>You head to the canteen, where some ponies are still serving their late lunches, and grab some rations before sitting with your father.
>"It's nice, changing the scenery every now and then, hey?" He comments while you eat. "This is what we were born to do. I still can't sit right with them cities... but if they let us live, then I'm square with them. How about you, Knit? Anything you wanna talk about?"

>>28816505
Yeah... honestly I'm somewhat worried the old Nord way of life will be smothered by cobble roads and high stone walls, that there will no longer be a place for ponies like us in the future. Ponies here don't seems to have the same kind of kinship and bond Nords of the tribes do. It's kinda sad really.

So father, hypothetically, if I were to have two mares simultaneously announce their love to me what would you do? No, rutting them both then and there is not an option.

>>28816505
agree with him. you hope the cities just stay where they are and let the tribes sit in peace instead of acting like they own everything. We were here before they were.

>>28816597
>>28816626
"Actually, yes. I've been to a lot of Aurorian towns, learning the things they've copied from other lands. After all this time, there are things that keep bothering me..."
>"Oh? Share your newfound wisdom with me" your father looks at you with interest.
"Well, everypony seems to be glad there are walls to protect them, houses to sleep in and trained soldiers patrolling their streets. But I don't see it, I don't think that is in any way safer than what we had. They just don't seem to share the same bonds, the selflessness, the kindness, as the tribes did."
>"Why do you say so?"
"It just... doesn't go with me. I agree with what you say, I don't mind ponies living they way they want, as long as they let us be and there's peace in dialog. But... father, do you think the old way is destined to die? Is there any place at all for the tribes in the new North?"
>While you await the answer, you finish your food. Your father simply takes a long sip of ale and looks at the horizon past the tent's entrance.
>"You've arrived at the same conclusion every one of us did, over the course of long years. For the longest time, I thought that indeed, we were destined to stop living the way we have for centuries. I had some bad nights thinking how it could be possible, when our way of life clearly made us stronger ponies... But then I thought about it in another way."
"Oh?"
>"Knit, you probably don't know this, but since years prior to the war, before you were even born, the number of monsters had been steadily decreasing. The North is an inhospitable place, full of some of the most dangerous, vicious creatures. However, their numbers went down as time followed on. From Scrambler, I learned of an ancient story passed down among the minotaur tribes."

(1/3)

>>28816760
"Please tell" your eyes are now fixated in your father.
>"Somewhere around the formation of the pony empire, there was a period where monster numbers increased so drastically, minotaurs and ponies had to unite. Hundreds died, and those who survived became stronger than any known pony before them. So I ask of you, is it because of the cities that we shrank, or is it because the lack of necessity?"
"You mean, the monsters are what keeps us strong?"
>"Without a foe, who's going to improve? Without a mortal enemy, there's not the need in such a big scale to create a defending force. Word of mouth says that the monsters in the North come and go as the hearts of the nordsponies settle. We're destined to never live in peace, Knit, I want you to understand this truth."
"B-But, what does that mean, then? Do the cities not matter?"
>"Who knows. There were cities in the North before, and they stand as ruins now. These new ones might do a better job, but the North isn't made of cities, but ponies. And this is what we had to realize with this war."
"Realize what?"
>"That we've been played by our own ego, and that if we don't wake up right now, we're destined to the same ending our ancestors did" your father slams his hooves on the table, bringing you out of fixation. "Dead by the hundreds, with the survivors barely able to contain a mass of monsters that could expand all over the Nine Lands."

(2/3)

>>28816766
>You swallow slowly, letting your racing heart calm down. A few minutes pass without words, before you decide to change the subject.
"Say, father... if two mares were to tell me they love me at the same time, what do you think I should do? And no, rutting them both isn't an option."
>"Ooh, is my son becoming popular with the wenches? Is your unicorn friend one of them?"
"...She might or might not be one of them."
>"Well Knit, I haven't been in such a lucky situation, but I'd say you need to make the best of your time with them, because whoever you don't choose might turn away forever and run. Such is the nature of nord mares sometimes. I can only tell you to listen to your heart and never rush it. If they truly love you, they'll wait for you to come to a decision."
"Uh... thanks" you tell him. Afterwards, you say goodbye and go outside. The sun is already setting, covering the expanses with large shadows of orange. "Well now... the flag may have to wait until tomorrow..." Your friends went into the canteen to eat as well, but you lost them on your sights. Thinking about it, you don't have a place to sleep, do you?

Back tomorrow. Having to wake up early on a Sunday, blegh.

>>28816778
>never rush it.
Lets try to remember this from now on.

We should find the others and apologize to Live and Brun for the delay in our dates. Also we should ask around about a place to sleep and possible locations for a flag.

>>28816778
We should ask Merry if she found it when we next see her. I really really wanted that as a keepsake. It's practically a historical artifact. Think of it; the flag from the first Aurorian camp to fall that subsequently triggered the unification of the entire North. It was carried through the North by the "Peacekeepers." Maybe we can ask those noobs if they noticed where it went.

We can ask for any places to sleep or just sleep near the balloon.

I'm sorry, I won't be able to run tonight. I'll be back tomorrow, and help keep the thread up.

Tough times ahead.

Stay warm at night bump

>>28816846
>>28818234
>>28819346
>Roaming around, you ask some ponies where you and your team might sleep the night. You're directed to some tents managed by a scarved mare.
>"Why, it's you! Remember, you stole my scarf and then gave it back" the pegasus with ruffled wings insists. "So, how are you? I never saw you again after that."
"Good question. Me and my team have been doing missions everywhere, and right now we ended up here. Is there a place we could use to sleep?"
>"There should be enough tents for everypony" the mare nods. "Listen, I was kind of rude back then. Because of the battle, I only cared for the family keepsake..."
"Don't mention it. It was my fault in the first place" you wave your hoof. "Thanks for the tents!" Trotting away, you set to find your friends.
>"Knit, Knit!" It's Merry who finds you first, panting, sweaty and grinning from ear to ear. "I found it, they told me it wasn't possible, but I didn't lissun!" She shows you the remains of the Aurorian flag, tattered and muddy.
"Oh... wow, thanks, Merry. At least we can claim it for historical reasons" you stash it away. "It's a memory of the Peacemakers, after all. We'll have to find a better one to fly on the balloon, though."
>"Aw..."

(1/2)

>>28829760
"Do you know where everypony is?"
>The pegasus brings you to the others, and you inform them of the sleeping quarters. Then, you set some time aside with Brunhilde and Live Fire.
"I just want to apologize and make sure that you're alright with whenever dates we pick for the... well, the dates" you tell them. "I absolutely don't want to rush it, so if tomorrow isn't fine, then we might do it later."
>"I think we might wait a little more" Brunhilde claps her hooves. "If that's alright with her."
>"I...! Fine, I don't want to see neither of you panic because of this" Live Fire nods. "But can we go explore the market tomorrow at least?" She asks apologetically.
>"Certainly" Brun agrees.
>During the night, you have a light snack and try to communicate with Tele. It's diffuse, but you can have a very slow conversation with her over the course of hours. You sleep without interruptions and wake up with some of your friends in the tents reserved for soldiers.
>"Waaaah!" Vera suddenly yells in your ear. "G'mornin' lad. Wew, what's a mare gotta do to get brekfest around heah!?" Why is she sleeping here again?

>>28829760
>She shows you the remains of the Aurorian flag, tattered and muddy
Wow, how'd it get in such shitty condition?

>>28829768
Time to grab a bite to eat and start searching for a new flag.
>>28829834
Falling through trees?

>>28829768
by looking for a bunch of other ponies eating and then asking where they got the food.

>>28829834
>>28829861
>>28829903
"Sheesh, Vera!" You complain. "I don't know, and I'm dying to find out! Let's head to any old canteen."
>"You the boss, m'lad!" The unicorn seems almost unethically optimistic after just waking up.
"You seem to be in a good mood. Are you alright? About the balloon, and stuff."
>"Mmm? Oh, yea..." her face suddenly turns gloomy. "The balloon. Thanks, you bloody mouf, I forgot about that."
"How silly..."
>Fortunately, after asking some ponies next to the big canteen tent with their breakfast, you learn there's a smaller one where service is carried out. You grab a somewhat miserable ration and eat it somewhere close while your friends arrive one by one.
>"We're next to the largest concentration of traders this side of Dreamwatch, and this is all we get?" Mathe complains as well. They sure are noisy, the sisters.
>"Pfft, you're going to give yourselves away. No soldier would complain about a ration this good!" Merry digs in without question.
>While you all eat and plan to visit the heart of the Trader's Hub, you examine the flag Merry got back yesterday. On top of being covered in dust and specks of mud, there are clear tears on it, made by large claws.

(1/2)

>>28829981
"What do you think happened to this flag?"
>"Hmm? Prolly got caught in a bird's talon and then fell. No biggie, there must be others" Clearsoul analyzes. "Hmm, Marion, do you mind if we take a walk of our own?"
>"Oh boy, here we go" the colt lets go of his breakfast and follows the mare happily.
>"They look kinda cute..." Live puts hoof against hoof, watching them go and whinny.
>Afterwards, you split in other small groups and head into the hub. The amount of tents, make do houses and other structures makes you dizzy until you find your way around.
>Eventually, you deal with a mare who sells flags and other mementos. She's a bit sorry about the whole pacification, since she can't sell her Aurorian stock so much. You and Merry buy a flag each, yours remarkably bigger, as it should.
>"Teehee" Merry rubs her tiny flag. "I want to see if we can redesign it for the new North... whoa!" Suddenly, a gust of wind passes by the street. Visible tears appear out of nowhere on top of a tent, crashing it down.
"What was that!?" You look up, and immediately know the answer: a large flock of birds, each the size of a pony at least, descending and attacking the open fair. Panic ensues, ponies running, trampling and yelling all around you.

>>28829991
I knew this day would come. It's the bird uprising! Get that ward up and get out of here.

>>28829991
Damn it all. I wanted the flag in good condition...

Damn birds fucked our mint condition flag! Fuck them up if they get in range of our rings.

>>28829991
Now the monsters are flying.

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>>28830038
>>28830069
>>28830089
>Damn it! So it comes to pass, the monsters now grow wings and everything. Before the next one dives in, you charge your ward spell.
"Ghhhhyaaaaarggghh...!" You feel a burning sensation when one of the birds crashes against it, completely destroying the shield and your concentration, but getting knocked out unconscious in the process.
>"Whoa Knit, you freakin' rule!" Merry jumps around you. "Stay here and help with your weapons, I'm going up!"
>Simultaneously with your friends, pegasi and griffons all over the hub dash towards the sky in beautiful synchronization, engaging in combat with the birds. The hub streets begin to clear up, giving you a better view.
>"Knit! Are you alright!?" Live Fire and Brunhilde show up.
"I'm okay, but I need you two to get this flag somewhere safe! Damn birds, I'm not having a second one torn up!"
>"Wow, okay" Brunhilde sighs with a smile. "I'm glad that you're alright, you big goof. Let's get under cover Fire!" The two mares leave your side.
"Remember to fold it nicely- wh-whoaaa!!" All of the sudden, your hooves stop touching the ground. Looking up, you see large talons holding you by the legs. "Hey!"
>Fortunately, your weapons are with you, so you let your rings fall down from your waist and start spinning them up, as the altitude rises. Here and there, you see ponies fighting birds and other birds fighting birds.
>Whenever you see a lone monster, you throw one of the rings. It seems silly at first and you don't hit, but eventually you get some cut wings. However, the one carrying you is smart enough to dodge.
"You'll see now...!" You prepare for a full melee, you'll cut it's legs! "Huh?" Except the rings pass right in between you and it: the bird has dropped you, cackling. "Aa... aaa... aaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA...!!"

>>28830267
That blow must've shorted our brain or something because that was an extremely idiotic move. Call out for help and shoot ice at the birds as we fall. Do we have anything like a grappling hook? Also, are there any tall structures near where we're falling?

>>28830267
if we have rope tie one end to the cackling bird around it's neck. Then while our descent is slowed we can look for a passing bird and tie the other end around it's neck and we'll tame both of them.

>>28830267
Not again!

>>28830314
>>28830320
>>28830373
"SOMEPONY HELP ME! SOMEPONE. HELP. ME!!" Not this again, it's the second time in how many days now!? You yell and yell, tossing your weapons everywhere like a fool. But wait! You can still save yourself! Think, Tight Knit, think!
>Aha! There are no buildings tall enough to break your fall under, but you can make use of the monsters in the sky! Making a quick lasso, you reach upwards with it, extending as far as the rope goes.
>With a good strike, you nab your target: the bird's neck. It stops cackling as soon as your weight pulls it down. Now he's trying to flap his wings with a knot around his neck to save himself.
"That's right, fly, fly for me, you beast!" You look for another bird nearby and use the rest of the rope on a similar trick. "Break my fall, you birdbrains!"
>Your descent is greatly reduced, and you land safely, with two birds completely exhausted and your heart racing to stabilize itself. Ponies come out of their tents and look at the display, at the same time your friends run towards you.
>"Holy stars, that -was- you!" Clearsoul runs ahead. "I couldn't believe it with my own eyes."
"I was... this close... to being pony splat" you reply, knees shaking, legs heavy.
>"Knit...!" Brunhilde, Live Fire and Aphid for added bonus throw themselves on a pile. You can feel pony stuff just about everywhere around your body.
>"Wew lads, seems yer having trouble with some crappy birds!" Vera and Mathe show up. "We can lend a hoof innit?"

(1/2)

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>>28830649
"H-How?" You ask in the pile.
>"Didn't we tell you? We're master summoners. Let us show you what our combined power can do!" Mathe replies with confidence. She and her sister begin to charge a joined spell, which explodes in a burst of light...
>The next you see, everyone's stopped moving, looking upwards. A giant creature, floating in the sky by means of a strange air cushion underneath, pursues the birds with its giant maw open.
>"Wh-Wh-Wha--What the actual...!?"
>"Hmm... by the means of propulsion and appearance, I'd say it's a flying eel of the anti-gravity cavern-wells from the Nurya dimension" Mathe replies with a sober tone.
>"You stupid? That's clearly an Oily Subterfugevourer from the fourth plane of torment. Look at its body, lass" Vera replies. Out of the corner of your eye, you can see chunks of the creature's body seem to vanish for seconds at a time, giving it a choppy appearance.
>"W-What does that thing do?" Live Fire asks in a whisper.
>"Ah, it eats birds, and sucks the natural oils in their body. It's said to be incredibly agonizing" Mathe nods.
>"And when it runs out of birds?"
>"Oh... I guess it will eat griffons and pegasi instead!" the green mare replies, oblivious.

Back tomorrow.

you do know that our allies are up there right? You silly pony. poke them on the cheek.

>>28830663
Can you get rid of it before then?

Let's yell and try to get as many pegasus and griffins out of the sky as we can in the meantime.

>>28830881
>>28832245
>>28833722
"Uh... you can recall that... thing, before that happens, right?"
>"Huh? Oh, of course" Mathe nods. "You know, we used to have a lot of trouble with the despawning, so Vera and I really got working on it a couple years ago."
"Sheesh!" You sigh. "You could have said so. There are some of our guys up there still!" You poke the green mare on the cheek.
>"D-Don't poke me!"
"Who's gonna stop me? This is the North" you poke her again.
>"N-Neigh!"
>"I'll stop you!" Clearsoul pulls you away. "We need to call our brethren back!"
>It isn't hard, since many of the soldiers run away like Tartarus when they see the horror flying before them; however, some still try to fight it. The monster's body conveniently disappears when a weapon is about to touch it, causing everyone who tries to go right through it.
"Truly a terrifying creature. Alright, I think that's everypony!" You relay the sisters. They nod and prepare another joint spell which causes the monster to suddenly vanish. "Phew" you sigh as the few remaining birds run for the mountains.
>"Alright, that's enough" without warning, Storm Flier shows up behind the sisters. "You two are arrested."
>"W-Wait, wot!?" Vera yells in her face. "We were helpin' too, ya friggin' nobgobbler!"
>"I know that, but you endangered the lives of nord ponies and griffons in the process" the pegasus replies with a stare of death. "I also know you've been helpful to our ponies, but we can't let foreigners come into our lands and do as they please with strong magic. Until we can determine your punishment, you will be confined" the pegasus spreads her wings, taking the mares in. Vera looks at you with eyes that could melt ice.

>>28836832
On second thought, I should withhold the session during election day. I leave the update open to vote and discuss until tomorrow, sorry to the ameribros.

>>28836832
Keep them with us for now until a punishment can be determined as they are needed to fix the balloon. They'll be under arrest and not allowed to leave our side.

>>28836923
Shit, tomorrow it's wednesday, I forgot again. I'll be back on thursday then, but will try to update at least once or twice to make the pause less pronounced.

>>28836832
We had a plan on using them for an excuse to reach the capital.

>>28836944
just update like you normally do.

>>28836932
>>28836954
"Wait! We need their help!" You call out to Storm. "At least, they would be useful while carrying out the next mission."
>"I told you, I know that, but there can be no exceptions!" The pegasus replies with an indignant tone.
"Then, how about you leave them with us for detention? We'll take care of them until you choose a punishment, but meanwihle, they can work on the ballon!"
>This time, Storm turns around and looks at you, almost trying to force a backdown. However, your stare remains, until finally, she smirks.
>"Fine. But don't expect punishment to be less severe" she turns around and leaves.
>"Wew!" Vera rushes at you. "Good show lad!"
>"Appreciated. I guess we must uphold your words and work on the balloon" Mathe replies meekly.
>"Please do. We can't stop our commanders from administering punishment, however" Marion explains.
>"Eh, we been in some real dung ass situations before" Vera shrugs. "Who's gonna take care of us then? Somepony gotta."
>"I'll go" Clearsoul offers.
>"I can help too. I can't help a lot these days" Aphid raises a hoof.
>"Alright! Time to... buy stuff, I guess" Brunhilde looks around. "Well, the mood certainly isn't fitting, I wonder if anypony will open at all, after such an attack..."
"Is the flag safe?" You go and ask her and Live Fire.
>"Your father took it for stashing, don't worry" the cragpony replies. "He also made a lot of weird remarks..."
>"And winked at us, like a dozen times" Brunhilde rolls her eyes. "What have you been talking about with him, Knit?" She deadpans at you.

Retracting what I said, looks I was a bit too hasty. I don't want to cause too many pauses in a row, so let's have at least a shorty text session.

>>28837008
Nothing.

>>28837008
how big the north is and it needs more ponies in it.

>>28837008
Y'know... stuff. Stuff and things. What, a guy can't ask his father for advice?

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>>28837026
>>28837039
>>28837055
"Nothing."
>The word comes right out of your muzzle, as your eyes shift away for just a milisecond.
>"Nothing? Come on, Knit, you've been talking lots with him!" Brunhilde flutters her eyelashes.
"Well... just, you know, stuff. About the North, how big it is and how many ponies it has!" You yell. "What, can't a pony ask his father for advice?" Finally, you control your voice tone.
>"Hmm... I wonder what kind of advice" the unicorn walks around you with the airs of a devil, her scents leaving a trail in your nostrils.
"Buh..."
>"We could just have a walk... maybe talk a bit" Live Fire suggests, not keen on tempting you like Brun does.
"That works!" You grab the mares' legs and pull them along the way.
>There are little words, however, and a lot of exploring the massive trading complex. Eventually, you find some open stores, although it seems the news have been spreading, and most of the tents are closed.
>"How can such a big market just close all at once? This system is ridiculous" Brunhilde complains while eating a freshly baked piece of bread. "Om nom nom... the North belongs to the nords... hrmphomp omph chomp... a thousand years' reign..."
>"Please don't choke" Fire tries to calm her down.
>"Travelers, are you nords perhaps?" The baker, a very sweet mannered mare with a bun shaped mane, greets you outside her humble tent. "I have never visited the lands beyond the river, is it true the tribes have united?"
"Just for the war. However, we should all be united, no matter what way of life we follow" you reply automatically, blowing on the hot steaming bun. The one you bought, not the one in her head.
>"Oh, of course, of course..." the mare looks a bit confused. "This is all a bit strange to me, I was sure to leave the tribal life, to become wealthy and more liked... now it seems we don't really know where we're headed."

>>28837175
since most stores are closed and this one open this is a good opportunity to advertise to our soldiers that this place sells good food and her dreams of becoming wealthy are slightly closer to coming true.
we'll do that when we leave.
anyway nothing is set and stone and the north can become anything but me and my friends are going to be working towards a united north because that's the future we want.

>>28837175
I don't get how leaving the tribes would lead to being liked more and wealth isn't all that useful if you don't need stuff.

>>28837175
What is wealth and fame without ponies you love and care about? Friends and family. Remember, you are a Nord aswell. All ponies who live in the North are united in that way. Brothers and sisters of the North.

>>28837270
>>28837359
>>28837405
"Wealthy? More liked? Why did you want that?" You ask.
>"I don't know, at the time it just... seemed right. I, heh, I bought a bit into the promises. When I realized, I ended up here, with everypony else."
"I don't really see the point in this" you toss a golden bit at the mare, who looks at it surprised. "It's just gold. Gold is pretty, but you can't eat gold. Or make a tent out of gold."
>"And golden weapons suck, honestly" Live Fire offers her expert advice.
"The point is, I don't see what's so good about this system. And if you want to be well liked, shouldn't you go out there, meet ponies, become friends with them?"
>"I... have nothing to say, really" the mare looks at the floor, tossing the bit back at you.
>"You should just do that. Make more friends, don't be obsessed with material wealth. We're lucky enough to have each other."
"Yeah, we're all brothers and sisters of the North" you poke the mare in the chest. "You call yourself Aurorian or whatever, but we're all nords and we'll be forever. The real wealth is having friends and family that will honor you in life and remember you when you become a star."

(1/2)

>>28837502
>The baker nods, her attitude changing just slightly. You promise her to tell the soldiers about the food in her stand, so she can at least get a bit more coin and make new friends.
>"Hopefully all these artisans and crafters spread all over the Nine Lands when the war is over" Brunhilde comments. "Seeing so much talent wasted in pointless competition..."
>"Yeah, it isn't nice..." Live Fire agrees.
>Upon arriving at the repair grounds, you have a bit of good news: the balloon will be fixed by midnight. It will take a good workout, but the sisters can guarantee it.
>"Oh, and we'll get our punishment later" Mathe slumps down. "Your commander in office didn't specify. Hooray."
>"Cheer up, you still got loot, and you might get a good look at the capital of the North!" Merry speaks from somewhere inside the tarp.
>"Speaking of, we need to settle for the mission" Marion reminds everyone. "The balloon will be operative tomorrow, but should we leave then? Our plans right now are to use the big Aurorian flag to avoid attacks, and present the sisters as wealthy merchants looking to open trade routes with the North; or simply dropping somewhere atop the plateau and approaching the city in stealth. Opinions?" He asks everyone.

Back on Thursday, now for reals.

getting into the castle is a priority. then again we can sneak towards the gates at the front and then leave them unguarded so that the army can enter the city easier.

goodnight

bomp

I can't believe it's not butter.

Let's save the queen! Which is going into the castle acting like merchants. though this option is far more dangerous for us than just infiltrating the city. though it also gives us a high chance of taking out janos or whatever advisors is pouring poisonous words into his ear.

bomps

>>28838055
>>28845782
"I'm all for the merchant option; the castle is a priority" you gesture with your hoofsies. "Saving que queen and getting access to the court. Then, we could sneak into the gates and open them to let the armies go through."
>"Sounds good to me" Clearsoul agrees. The rest of the party seems to agree as well. "Who's getting dinner? We can't leave the sisters' side."
>The rest of you who can move freely head up to the canteen and grab hot rations for everyone. Your dinner is quite enjoyable outside, with some other soldiers joining and making small talk while you watch as Vera and Mathe repair the balloon.
>You wake up the next morning with the feeling that something is missing. Immediately after getting off your bed, you realize: your suit is gone, and you even go to bed with it, so someone has taken it away.
>"Merry!" You see the mare stretch and wake up outside your room. "My clothes are gone!"
>"Huh? Oh yeah, the sisters took yours and Marion's" the pegasus flips her hoof lazily towards one of the room. "Balloon's repaired, by the way."
"What? Why would they take ours?"
>"They say stallions smell better" she shrugs, licking her lips all the while.
>You peek into the unicorns' room and see them laying with their backs against each other, completely exhausted as to move any further, with your coats over their bodies like blankets. To be fair, this climate is very harsh, and your monster lined pieces are excellent to ignore the cold.
>"Cute" Brunhilde whispers. When did she get here? "I suggest you let them sleep. We can eat and pack our things, and get away from here when these two are ready. The commanders might want to know we're leaving, too."

>>28849103
They could have just used the brute pelts we had if they were cold. Let's eat and make sure we have our weapons. Then we can go see the commanders.

>>28849103
Of course. I better see you wearing that ring when we go in. Matter a fact we all better get cleaned up pretty well to pass ourselves off. Don't want to look like some tribesponies that just came out of the woods.

I want to try and fluster her somehow but I'm coming up blank. Oh well.

>>28849117
>>28849161
"Ugh" you close the door. "While they get up, let's eat and get ready. You should wear your ring, you know?" You poke Brunhilde in the horn.
>"I know, I know, I'll wear it. It will make us look more like professionals" the mare covers her horn with her hooves.
"Actually, we all should take a bath and look a bit more proper. We need to give a good impression. If you know what I mean..." you flap your eyebrows trying to look seductive. Damn, this is hard.
>"Heh, we can work on that later..." Brunhilde replies, laughing.
>After a plentiful breakfast, you go back to the tents, take baths when possible, and check your inventory's all there. The sisters wake up around that time.
>"Here, thanks for the coats lad, very comfy" Vera tosses it at you.
"Why didn't you use the monster pelts? I'm sure those are warmer" you puff your cheeks.
>"Oh, mebbe, but they don't smell as good..." Vera cackles while her sister Mathe hides a grin and escapes by the door.
"Sheesh..." you clean your coat of mare scent and put it back on. Ridiculous... "Let's go see the commanders to inform them."

(1/2)

>>28849251
>So you do, and halfway through the morning, the preparations are in order for you to leave. Everyone in your team is wearing what they can to look more seasoned: clothes and trinkets and weapons in odd positions. It speaks a lot about how much your team has evolved since the first scouting mission, when you barely knew each other.
>"We'll send scouts and prepare the troops for the ascent" Liza informs you while you pack things in the repaired balloon. "It might take us a few days to arrive, however."
>"The ascent alone will take us a whole day" Mathe replies from the basket.
>"Good luck, then. Hopefully you will find the queen and stop the charlatan" the mare nods before leaving you. Along with her, some soldiers deposit bags of fresh rations and some other trinkets to display at the court and make your case more believable.
>With the soldiers stationed at the Traders' Hub watching, the large contraption takes off, and soon you slide gracefully upwards, along the surface of the ice wall separating the two levels of ground.
>"Whoa, it's the most shiny ice I've seen..." Merry can't take her eyes off the wall. "Do you think there are giants in there, maybe? Or skeletons? Or giant skeletons attached to wheels?"

>>28849260
Anything could be under that ice. So maybe all of them are there. It does look nice.

>>28849260
Obviously there's not alot to do and plenty of waiting to be done so I'm just going to suggest different things for Knit to say/do along some amount of time.

What? That's crazy. Still, it's pretty to look at. Hey Merry! I dare you to go lick it!

>Everyone in your team is wearing what they can to look more seasoned: clothes and trinkets and weapons in odd positions
Hey Live, does this ice brute pelt as a cape really make me look cool?

And finally be sure to get some time to ask Marion how he's doing.

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>>28849280
>>28849330
"What? That's crazy. Then again, hmm..." you look at your reflection in the ice. "Who knows how long this has been in here... it's really pretty, though."
>"I know!"
"Hey Merry" you have a devious idea, and look at her with smug eyes. "I dare you to lick it."
>"Wh-What!?" Not just her, but a few of your friends take worried, half disgusted looks at you.
"T-The ice. I mean, lick the ice. What, are you too chicken to do it? You already have the wings..."
>"W-Wow, nopony who's ever called me chicken has lived to see it pay off!" The pegasus immediately takes off, takes a lick off the wall and returns. "See? Easy."
"Hmm... I somehow expected something funnier to happen."
>"That's because juu dun nuu nuthin', Tight Knit" Vera speaks from your shoulder.
>During the rest of the day, you tinker with one of the monster pelts to make a cape.
"Does this look good on me?" You test it with Live Fire. The large, white fur streaks from your neck and floats with the cold wind.
>"Wow... it's a bit too big."
"Of course, it represents how big my... determination, is."
>"Wouldn't that be an issue during a fight?" Marion contemplates.

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>>28849429
"It's not meant to be used in fights, just to show off!" You burst. "Everypony get capes now!"
>"No."
"Aw..."
>"It still does look cool" Mathe remarks, making your day.
>The long day gives you time to think about many things: the North, your parents, Tele, Fire's booty... at night, you have a hushed conversation with Marion.
"So, how are things going?"
>"I think we'll finish our job soon, and I can't wait" the colt replies. "It's hard enough to keep Clear content as it is, but she still understands we need to be focused. I can tell it hurts her."
"I think we're all hurting from such an assignment. We've been to so many places and fought so much..."
>"Hopefully the fight will be over soon."
"Aye."
>The next day, something bizarre occurs: during the morning, when you're very close to the upper plateau, strong gusts of wind start shaking the balloon wildly off course. The sisters have trouble keeping it in place.
>"At this rate, we'll crash against the wall!" Mathe exclaims. "We need support, and not just the unicorns!"
>"An' some pegasus to clear off them passing clouds innit!?" Vera solves. "I can't see dung every fifteen seconds!"

>>28849436
Clouds are harmless, merry can help push the balloon against the winds.

>>28849436
Merry, get out and push will ya?

>>28849472
>>28849537
"Oh, come on, clouds are harmless" you frown. "Merry, can you push from outside? Brun and I will help the sisters. The rest of you, just try to help in any way you can!"
>"Pfft, can I" the pegasus shakes a hoof before flying outside and putting her body against the basket. "Alright, keep it tight!"
>The furious wind streaks continue, oddly synchronized with the fast, passing clouds above you. After a while, they subside, leaving the balloon in shape, but further away from the wall.
>"Ugh, we had to go off course..." Mathe looks down. "Good job, Merry!"
>"Eh, it was nothing" your friend shows up, gliding into the basket gracefully and giving Mathe the hoof bump.
"What's important is that nothing happened... again" you blow air with sharp breaths, your horn still pulsating. "How's the situation, guys?"
>"Everything okay, we didn't lose any loot or..." Marion looks up, outside the balloon. "Oh goodness..."
"What?" Suddenly, another strong wind starts pushing the balloon down. "Wh-What's this!?"
>"We're not done yet!" Vera and Mathe return to their positions.
>"I don't think anything we do would change that!" Marion grits his teeth, pulling the crossbow out.
"What did you see!?" You join him.
>"It will show up any moment now..."
>Right then, something massive descends from the sky above, placing itself level with the drifting balloon.
>"Guess clouds aren't really that harmless, eh?"
"Oh my..."

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