>>13557 Thread pic is where Cloudhead is now. >The stallion keeps yelling as Cloudhead leaves. "Hey, I'm talking to you!" >At least he doesn't care enough to walk across town. Agreed. Things were getting good with 5 ponies in the party, but this show doesn't end soon. When I started this I wanted to be the OP that delivered and I don't intend to back down until we have run at least to the end of this segment and one more story line. Given the pace of things here and the scale of what I have planned that will be a while. >>13561 >Soon the zebra makes it's way into Ron's saltlick out of Boulder's view. >What do?

>>13577 >looks around for others

>>13578 >Spots Cloudhead past the Saltlicks. >Can still see Quill through the door of the Hot L.

>>13579 "Hey, wait for me!" >Slowly runs after Cloudhead

>>13580 >Catches up. Guys?

>>13580 >Ears perking up at the sound of approaching thunder, he stops to see his companion approaching "Is everypony else still checking out that weird place...? I didn't like it there." >He says, before proceeding to tell Boulder about his experience over on the other side of town "...Guess there's no right on wrong choice here, huh? Everypony seems pretty divided." >He concludes, pausing for a moment to scuff at the ground with a hoof "Anyway, while we wait, wanna go check the store out? They have used windows here!" >Points a forehoof "The sign says so!"

>>13594 >looks at used windows, fascinated "Lets. Maybe they know about fillies. Or heretecs."

>>13594 >Quill, having grown tired of the strange and unkempt hotel, decides to go out and rejoin the others. She spots them by the store and quickly canters over. "Sorry, just got a bit turned around." >She looks at the store herself, letting out an amused snort at the sign. "Oh brother... This town really keeps surprising. Well, if it's the towns general store they must get lotsa traffic, right? No harm in asking around inside."

>>13594 >>13595 >>13597 Too busy to do a pic lately but the show must go on; I'll try to respond faster. >Two stooges and a secretary walk into a store. >The curtains smell of mildew >From the floor erupt mountain ranges of splinters >Shards from the windows spread forth vigorously over the room... and under the used window section. >And wow, what a used window section it is! >Two bits for a whole window - that's a steal! >And that's not all either: Can opener - 5 bits Canned apples - 10 bits Canned muffin - 15 bits Hard tack - 2 bits Whiskey - 20 bits >A ruffled stallion with a brown coat and a black mane sits at the checkout counter, opposite to the side with the pony shaped hole in the wall.

>>13601 >looks at the wall and whistles "Heretecs did it?"

>>13601 >Quill scrunches up her nose, looking grossed out at the smell before she puts on the most forced smile of her life and trots over to the stallion behind the counter. "Hi there. Quite the, uh. Shop, you've got here. Never seen a store specializing in broken windows. Quite a niche market you've fond."

>>13604 >The stallion lets out a jolly laugh. "Those hain't no broken windows! they've still go plenty of good years on em'; they're just well loved is all" >He pans his eyes across the party. "What can I get ya'll?"

>>13606 "You seen 3 fillies and a heretec?"

>>13609 >The shopkeeper shakes his head. "Nope. I'd ask at Ron's if I were you"

>>13612 >scratches his nose against the counter "Shame."

>>13601 >Listening to the others talk, Cloudhead peruses through the wares of the fine establishment >As he does so, a certain something catches his eye... >The deal of the century! >A can opener for ONLY five bits? That's an intangible amount of tens less than the other place! >With haste and a spring in his step, he quickly selects two of them, bringing them up to the counter >Counting up a ten, Cloudhead engages in some conversation himself "Anything interesting happen around these parts lately?" Any descriptions on the items? I remember what Canned Muffins do, but what about the apples, hard tack and whiskey?

>>13621 >The shopkeeper rakes in the bits. "Nope, just the same old thing" This store is a little different

>looks at the wall some more "You sure it not heretecs who did that?"

>>13635 >The shopkeeper turns his head and squints. "Huh. What's wrong with the wall? It looks like it's standing to me" >He continues carefully analyzing it, looking directly at the hole. "There's a new window. I wonder when that was installed"

>>13636 >goes to investigate hole >sniffs it from a distance, very carefully "Whatcha think, Cloud?"

>>13636 >Quill trots up to the hole herself. She looks at the size of it, trying to deduce how big the thing that made it must be. Mare sized, filly sized, or a little larger than both. "You, uh. I don't suppose you saw someone come through here in a hurry and not use the front door, didja? Cause I don't think this is a window." >She says, glancing back at the shopkeeper.

>>13642 >The hole is the size of a large stallion and looks fresh. >A trail of shoed hoofprints continues from the other side, but the pony they belong to is not in sight. >The shopkeeper garbles Quill's words from across the room. "Your in a hurry to buy a window? To your left, they're 2 bits. Ya'll blind or somethin'?"

>appears deeply in thought >then backpedals from the wall >chooses a spot to the side from the hole >paws the floor with his front hoof >rushes forward, fast like a tectonic plate and collides with the wall

>>13646 CRASH! >Boulder slams through the wall leaving a pony shaped hole in his wake. >Some splinters and nails stick to his side, 2 damage. >The shopkeeper is too busy writing something to notice.

>>13647 >looks at shopkeeper "Huh? Oh... Uh-huh." >repeats the wall bashing at the spot next to the previous one

>>13649 THUNK! >Boulder hits a vertical beam in the wall, which shifts to the side but does not fully break. >Crackling noise can be heard above. >A purple mare walks in through the first hole and begins examining the used window section. "I'm liking the new breathable marketplace feel" >The shopkeeper looks up from what he's doing to see the customer. "We try to keep our store up to date. Say, where'd that other window come from?"

>>13652 >walks out through the hole >looks at the beam critically "Me don't like this store. Ya better walk out, friends." >He tells To Cloudhead and Quill and squints at the wall, contemplating how to break the beam.

>>13654 >contemplating how to break the beam. This is going to be good

>>13652 >Quill rolls her eyes, ignoring the shopkeeper. >She trots towards the first hole, and walks through it as daintily and carefully as she can. Once she's through, she trots ahead a few steps and outstretches a hoof. "We should hold up and look around for any more paths of destruction we can follow. >Under her breath, she adds "Before we go making our own."

>>13658 >The conversation continues in the store. "Canned apples for 10 bits? That's a great deal!" >The shopkeeper responds to the mare: "You won't find a price like that in Appaloosa" Exiting the building is advisable Cloudhead

>When Cross returns from his sandy walk-about, and once more enters the Hot L, he's a little more than perturbed by the disappearance of... well, everypony. >He glances at Cotton. "If I take another slip, I don't know what I'll do." >He takes the keys again, then tries /for the last time/ to navigate into a downstair bedroom. Happy Hearth's Warming, anons. Sorry for taking off.

>>13675 >notices Cloudhed still transfixed by canned muffins >returns in the shop, grabs him by the tail and drags him out through the largest hole. "Sorry, Cloud. But me wanna try something".

>>13677 Happy Hearth's Warming to you too; looks like our gift is getting Cross back! Don't stress it anon. >Cotton looks up from her desk. "You'll manage. I think your friends went to the West side of town" >Cross steps on the nail board again. >Thankfully it was put back sharp side down. >The door remains knobless. >>13680 >Cloudhead offers little resistance to the living mountain and is now safely out of the building, although the mare gave a strange look at the scene.

>>13683 "They're not doing anything too dangerous, I'm sure." >Cross peers at the point of knoblessness. >He speaks through a mouthful of key. "Whrt?"

>>13698 >Through the hole Cross can see a dark room and... >A clown? >It's hard to make out but it sure looks like a clown. >Other than that it's dusty and there are some broken chairs. >Some beams of light shine through cracks in the walls.

>>13700 >Cross slips the keys to a hoof to call back to Cotton. "Hey, I think you got some kinda squatter or somethin'. Real clown lookin'."

>>13704 >Cotton gasps. "There shouldn't be any clowns in there!" >She rounds the corner into the hallway. >After a few seconds she arrives at the door, turning to give it a kick with her left hind leg. >The door jumps out of position and swings open. >Light shoots into the room through the frame. >Cotton turns to see the room and turns again to face Cross, now sporting a look of confusion. "There hain't noypony in there?" >Cross can see the ghostly figure of a clown. >It stares back begging him to come closer.

>meanwhile near the Used Windows store "Uh... Hmmmmm" >observes the beam >waits till the mare customer go out of the shop

>>13710 >Cross cocks a brow at her. "You full of pranks, Miss Cotton? The nail and board is one thing, but that is definitely a /clown/." >He takes one step into the room, a little apprehensive... because of his suspicion with the floor. "Hey, pal. How's it goin'?"

>>13712 >The mare purchases a can opener and canned apples then leaves. >The "beam" looks very weak from the first blow. It's not a beam, it's a post because it's vertical. I feel silly that I mixed it up but my excuse can be it's Boulder's low int observation. >>13713 I have been super busy lately. I want to get a visual thing for this and what Boulder is about to do, so it will take a few days for me to reply. I think it will be well worth it.

>>13719 >my excuse can be it's Boulder's low int observation based >so it will take a few days for me to reply. I think it will be well worth it. very based. thank you for all the effort you put in. (You) are the OP who delivers.

happy new year mares and stooges

>>13713 >Cotton freezes in place, so does Cross. >silly3.mp4 >Silly disappears from the room. Happy new year! bouldersmash.mp4 is in production right now; expect it by the end of the day.

>walks backwards a bit >huffs "Now he not tell the wall is ok!" >rushes towards the "beam" like a siege tower

>>13735 >Cross blinks stars from his eyes. "...Be seein' ya, Silly." >He looks back at Cotton. "Uh, sorry. Didn't mean to accuse you of pranks or nothin'. We all got a little clown who keeps our lives on track, right?" >He coughs, then nods firmly at the darkness. "Anywho, this is a good place. Definitely useful, could see myself sleepin' here, actually. I'll be back 'round when I've got the bits spare. But in the meantime, you know any vets or soldier colts in town?" >Polishing the keys in his hoof against his chest, he doubles down on his grin. "I might not be in no more, but I'm always lookin' out for the Guard."

>>13737 It's here. Paint 3D + Windows Movie Maker = win. It's going to be hard to top this. >bouldersmash.mp4 >The building collapses on top of Boulder, knocking him out in an instant. >The used window salespony pops his head out of the top of the wreckage. >An orange unicorn stallion walks over the pile and looks at him. "I dig the new open air market feel" >The salespony frowns. "I can't find my crossword puzzle" >>13738 >Cotton returns a confused look but quickly perks up. "Yep, ol' cannon hooves. Lives just down the road on the east side of town; house with the weather vane. A friend of yours?"

>>13741 "Ouch"

>>13741 It's beautiful

>>13741 >Upon noticing the Canned Muffin conveniently tumbling towards his hooves, Cloudhead quickly scoops it up into his bag "Wow! Thanks Boulder!" >He says, taking in the destruction before him >After awhile, however, he begins to ponder if that was a wise decision or not when he doesn't see his companion "Um... You OK?" >Cloudhead then asks, before getting up and digging into the rubble F-Zero X music lmao. Kino. Sorry for the absence, last two weeks were crazy. Had no power or internet for 5 days because of winter storm, then I left to go somewhere else for the holidays. Back now and all is well.

>>13744 >Cloudhead manages to avoid the broken glass, nails, and splinters with his nimble movements. >After pulling a few boards and window frames aside he finds Boulder, who although unconscious thankfully doesn't appear to be grievously injured. >He is a rock after all. >There is still more building on top of him to remove.

>>13744 No problem; that's how it goes sometimes. Thankfully at the pace this is at you won't miss much when something like that happens.

>>13748 >Quill stares at the commotion with growing disbelief. >Looking at the nails, she doesn't want to risk touching it with her hooves. >She lights her horn, levitating some of the smaller boards and bits of rock off of Boulder "Gonna assume that was all exactly according to his intentions, and be very impressed when we confirm he's still alive." >>13741 It's absolute kino. Also sorry for going dark. Busy holidays moment, should be better going forward now

>>13741 "Any pony of the guard is a friend of mine." >He offers the keys back to Cotton. "'preciate the hospitality. Been a while since we've run into some good, honest ponies. Good mares, no less." >After smiling at Cotton for effect, he turns his eyes toward where Prickly ambled off. "I hate to leave her, but pass the word along that we've up and gone off to town, if you don't mind." >With all of that wrapped up, he heads outside to get a better view of the sounds he's been hearing. holy fucking kinoooooooo. Boulder is the real main character. >>13744 welcome back, always happy to see you I hope Prickly anon returns from the gray ship, soon

>>13751 >Between Quill and Cloudhead the debris are quickly cleared out of the way.

>>13754 >Cotton smiles back. "Will do. Take care!" >As Cross exits the Hot L at first he looks to the left, nothing out of the ordinary. >As his head turns right he sees the remains of the general store. >Next to those Cloudhead and Quill are looking at a grey lump its... >Boulder? >What the hay happened!

>>13756 >Cross gallops over to the carnage. "What the hay happened!"

"Ow."

>>13759 >Quill glances at Cross, a little smirk on her face. "Boulder here was just demonstrating the importance of structural joints in buildings. I guess you lot are some sort of travelling freelance demolition artists, huh?"

>>13763 >>13764 >He pauses, and listens. "Oh. Attacolt, Boulder!" >Cross turns back to Quill. "Boulder's definitely our artist. That's his finest work yet." >Satisfied that there's no danger, Cross looks around for any sign of the veteran's house. >He might struggle with his north and south, but he surely knows what a weather vane looks like.

>>13765 >There doesn't appear to be a house with a weather vane on this side of town. >It's starting to get dark so Cross can't quite tell if there is one back in the direction of the Hot L, but if there is one it has to be there.

>>13763 >Gently pokes Boulder with a forehoof "Are you able to get up?"

>>13791 You'll have to drag him to a bed or help him walk by supporting on two sides.

>>13766 >>13795 >Cross moves on over to Boulder, and kicks at some of the debris around them. "Tuckered yourself out, did you?"

>>13796 "It was better, when I wore my armor."

>>13797 >Tries to help get Boulder up onto his hooves

>>13797 >>13804 >Cross flanks one side of Boulder. "Gonna need to find us some new kit one of these days."

>>13804 >>13807 >With the support of Cloudhead and Cross, Boulder is on his hooves

>>13807 >>13823 "What did you think of that strange place with the letters on the floor? Is it good enough for the night?" >He asks, making an effort to start shuffling away from the scene

>>13825 "Yeah, it's dark and dry. Real nice. Clown might be keeping us company, though." >He nods his head back toward the Hot L. "I got a place I can check out just a little ways past the place, I'm sure. Right now it's gettin' dark, so we might wanna give ol' boy here a good floor."

>>13826 >>13825 >The three are moving in the direction of the Hot L.

>>13827 >The stooges enter the Hot L. >Cotton's eyes dart to Boulder. "Oh no! What happened?" >She says as she trots over to lend a hoof.

>>13838 >in apolegetic tone "Me forgot to wear me armor."

>>13840 >Cotton leads the way, this time taking special care to kick obstructions out of the path. "We need to get you resting fast!" >She kicks the hall door causing it to swing open. >The party follows to the left and Cotton unlocks the door to a downstairs bedroom. >It smells moldy and the furnishing is ripped, but it's better than being in the street... maybe. >Depends how warm or cold the night is really. >Boulder feels much better being set on a bed. "Much better. Shall we get the rest of ya'll set up with some rooms?"

>>13840 >Cross gives Boulder a good pat on the withers. He smiles. "You're alright, Boulder." >>13844 "S'good room for him. Thanks again." >Cross looks at Cloudhead. "Whatcha say, feathers? We callin' it in, here? Don't know about the uh, the mares we've got with us." >He leans in. "That, and I'm bone dry on bits."

>>13844 >Quill follows the lot from a distance, not really much help in the strength department. >She takes her time meandering through town, watching the locals, before venturing over to the Hot L and waiting at the front desk for Cotton to return.

>>13848 >>13845 >Quill can hear Cross through the wall. >Cotton smiles. "Your welcome"

>>13845 "Where'd those two go, anyway?" >Cloudhead asks as he takes a moment to better examine the room, getting an idea of how many ponies can rest in it >However, his ears soon pin back at a thought "And, um... You saw that clown...? Again?"

>>13851 "Yeah. I think I'm startin' to kinda like 'im, actually." >He slows. "...Okay, maybe not. Still, for a dead stallion, he's been a helpful sort. Told us about the gator, now he's givin' us leads on fillies." >He rolls his withers. "As for the mares, I think they're around. Doin' mare things. Ain't that right, Miss Cotton?"

>>13851 >The beds, the floor, what's the difference? >It's all such a mess that it's only merit is being under a roof, and even then just barely. >>13852 >Cotton nods. "I should be up at the front"

>>13854 >Amid the awkward silence interrupted only by the sound of mouth breathing Cotton turns around and walks back to the front desk.

>>13861 >Noticing Quill she trots over. "Hi again. Looking for a room?"

>>13852 >>13854 "Huh, well... As long as he's being helpful, I guess the clown isn't so bad..." >He muses, finally deciding on a plan of action "Anyway, I guess here's as good of a place as any for the night..." QRD on the current situation? I'm trying to get things straight in my mind, but a lot of things were happening at the same time and now I'm confused Current bit count for everyone? Did this downstairs room get paid for, or does that still need to be done? Are there still things to be doing outside now that it's getting dark? The burden of being Mr Moneyhooves, gotta make sure everyone's financed properly lmao

>>13867 The party arrived at town. Quill joined. You went to the saltlick but didn't go in because of the door fee, so you went to the Hot L and talked with a zebra and met Cotton. Prickly and Cross had to take a break leaving Boulder, Cloudhead, and Quill. Cloudhead checked out the east side of town and tried to get a sense of which saltlick is better while the rest of the party was talking in the Hot L, but he couldn't get a clear consensus. After that the party went and demolished the general store, knocking out Boulder. Cross rejoined and saw Silly at the same time, and then met up with the party. You took Bouler back to the Hot L to rest and now it is getting dark. That's where your at now. The only transactions that have happened in town are paying Cotton for a secret and buying those can openers then getting a free canned muffin, so the room is not paid for yet. Current bit counts: Boulder - 129 bits Cloudhead - 321 bits Marked Cross - 10 bits Prickly Pear - 0 bits Quill Conspiracy - 70 bits

>>13862 >Quill gives a curt nod. "Mmhm, thank you. One for myself, certainly. How many beds to a room? I imagine we may need several."

>>13873 >Cotton nods. "Two beds in a downstairs room, one in an upstairs room"

>>13879 >Follows along on his way back to the front desk >Upon noticing Quill conversing with the mare behind the counter, Cloudhead patiently takes his place in line behind her

>>13875 >>13885 >>13879 >Quill looks back at the others when they arrive. "So, there's two beds to a room downstairs... if we pool our bits together and get a few, that's ten bits from each of us." >Quill shrugs. "If we REALLY wanna save bits, we just get two downstairs and draw straws on who gets the floor. I sleep at my desk all the time, this wouldn't be much worse."

>>13894 >Cross sighs. "Look, I've got 10 bits. I'm at everypony's mercy, here."

>>13894 >Stares blankly at Quill for a time as his brain calculates out the extreme mathematics of the logistics issue at hoof >Eventually, his expression perks up as he arrives at a happy conclusion "We can make two downstairs work, I know just the way!" >He says in a chipper tone, then looking over at Cross >>13916 "Don't worry, I'll cover our room tonight." >Cloudhead then moves up to the desk alongside Quill, slowly counting out two sets of ten bits onto the counter Trust my 5 IQ plan kek

>>13925 >Cotton accepts the bits, sliding the key to the room with Boulder across the table. "Thank you" >She looks expectantly at Quill.

>>13926 >Quill shrugs, cracking a small smirk and plopping down twenty bits herself "There you go, miss."

>>13927 "And thank you as well, yours is the room to the right" >Cotton slides a set of keys to Quill.

>>13925 >Cross nods. "'preciate it, feathers." >He looks back to Cotton. After Quill receives her keys, he speaks. "So, do you know anything about uh, Cannon Hooves? Just want to know that I'm not steppin' on his hooves."

>>13936 >Cotton looks at Cross. "He won't cause you any trouble, he's just a little strange. Goes out on long walks every night. He's probably out there somewhere right now"

>>13942 >Cross looks between Cloudhead and Cotton. His head makes two quick swipes. "Then I think I might drop in before turnin' in. Prolly best if we don't all jump 'em, either." >As he turns to leave, he stops to look at Quill. "If you're stickin' around..." >He pauses, clucks his tongue against the back of his teeth, then shakes his head. "...I'unno, be nice to Cloudhead, here. He's a good colt. If he trusts you, I'll trust you." >Leaving his friends (and suspicions) behind, Cross leaves the Hot L.

>>13943 >Quill raises her eyebrow, a little surprised, but she shrugs and nods. "You won't have to worry about that. I'm plenty patient. And this seems like a much needed change of pace for me. I'll be nice, I promise." >As Cross leaves, she trots after him, giving his tail a little tug with her tail to stop him. "You're going out there alone? Think that's a good idea? Well, good luck, I guess. Give a holler if you get taken out by a wayward L or H or something." >She trots back to the others, fiddling with the key in her magic as she trots over to her room and unlocks it to peer inside.

>>13945 >Cross' muzzle reddens at the tail-twining. He turns for a brief moment. "U-uh, huh. Yeah."

>>13945 >As the door opens, some creepy crawler disappears into it's hole. >Putrid. >Quill spots several potential tripping hazards on the floor as well. >The beds are covered in mold. >>13962 >As Cross walks into the night he sees drunk ponies walking out of Ron's saltlick, plus the zebra from earlier. >There is the path to the side of town where the store got demolished and the path to the side of town he hasn't been to yet.

>>13970 >After a quick hum to debate the odds, he wagers that he'll see ol' cannon hooves on the quieter side. >He takes the path to the side of town he hasn't been.

>>13926 >Takes the key >>13945 >>13970 >Remembering what happened earlier, Cloudhead decides to follow behind Quill in order to check something >Once the door is opened, he approaches, full of apprehension >Both for what he may see, and for wondering how he's going to explain himself to the mare "U-Um... Hello again." >He introduces himself meekly "Are there any... any clowns in... there?" >He then asks, craning his head to try and peer inside

>>13973 >There's the house with the weather vein, and off to the left is a path into the prairie. >It's quiet at night say for the creaking of boards in the wind and has just as much broken glass as the other side of town.

>>13977 >Tries to gauge if anypony's home at the weather vane house.

>>13978 >As Cross nears a window, he feels shards of glass against his hooves. >Peering in he spots nopony home and no lights on. >Not that anypony here has lights. >As he turns away from the window a shadowy figure lurking behind startles him.

>>13979 >He waits for a moment, aloof and unsure.

>>13974 >Quill pushes the door open a bit wider so Cloudhead can see. "Heya. No clowns, besides maybe myself for paying for this room." >She then catches up with what she just said and turns around, raising an eyebrow. "Wait. Clowns?"

>>13980 >It doesn't move or speak, it resembles a pony.

>>13990 >He stares.

>>13991 >It remains still, but as Cross's vison focuses on it it's form becomes less and less clear. >The edges of the form seem to shake. >The silence is interrupted by a falling board followed by breaking glass somewhere in the distance.

>>13992 "I uh, Ol' Cannon Hooves?"

>>13993 >No response. >It looks like it might just be a plant or something.

>>13994 "Yeah... okay." >Cross heads for the path to the prairie.

>>13996 >The path is long and meandering. >The night is moderately dark, and Cross isn't always sure that he is walking on the path. >After a few minutes -might as well have been a few hours; or a few days!- he realizes that he has lost sight of the town. >The only visual to guide him is the silhouette of a mountain in the distance which has been to his... >He folds up one foreleg and then the other, one of them making a backwards "L" shape and the other an "L". >The silhouette of a mountain which has been to his left the entire time, more or less. >He hears some strange mumbling in the distance. Good on you for engaging as much as you can on my random day off, I'm starting to get in a rhythm which I haven't been able to lately.

>>13997 >Falling back onto his forelegs, Cross coughs. "Well, no time to get killed like the present." >He stalks forward, sticking to the path as much as he can while following the mumbling. It is coincidentally also my random day off. I miss Prickly.

>>13999 >The mumbling grows louder, but Cross can't make out more than a few words that don't seem to mean anything. >Suddenly- "Bucking commies!" >Followed by screaming and sobbing. >Cross continues forwards, the source of he noise now just ahead of him, but suddenly it goes silent. Me too. Prickly adds a certain energy to things.

>>14004 >He breaks into a gallop to cut the distance. >He's up and yelling, his ears folded back from the sheer fire in his throat. "Guard comin' through!"

>>14007 >A deep voice shouts from behind Cross sounding in a better mood than before. "Woah there! I'm back here"

>>14009 >Cross skids to a halt and does a double-take behind him. >He calls out blindly. "What?!"

>>14011 >It's hard to see clearly, but Cross can make out a dark colored figure with a lighter mane. "You were in the Guard? Cannon Hooves. What's your name and what brings you out here?"

>>14012 >Cross turns in place and lets Cannon Hooves approach if he wants to. "Marked Cross. Yeah, I /was/ in the Guard. Wanted to show the world I have what it takes to do a lot of good, and die tryin'. Workin' on the dyin' part, but the good's why I came lookin' for you." >He peers around before continuing. "I uh, heard you were around. I'm always lookin' out for the Guard, but now that I'm out looking at the world for myself, I'm feelin' a little lost." >Comfortably sure that none of his friends are around, Cross deflates. "Alright, more than a little. Look, me and some friends are lookin' for some fillies that ran off with some ponies nopony knows. There's all this stuff about unions, trains, and gold, but I just can't put things together. I'm a fighter, not a thinker. I'm here for some answers... and..." >He struggles to finish. "...some /help/." >A grimace wraps around his face. "So if'n it ain't too much off the pelt, I'd appreciate any answers you've got... for a guard like me, and my friends, too."

>>14013 >Cannon Hooves steps closer. "Well I can tell you for sure the unions aren't to be trusted, but I haven't heard of no fillies. I get that I'm your friend out here but why do you suppose I have any answers?" >Boulder can hear the rats shuffling out of the walls. >Unsure of his condition they approach cautiously. >Some of the rats begin gnawing at his hooves.

>>14018 "I'm not too sure. I guess I'm just lookin' for somepony who's got a bit more age on guard business."

>>14018 >notices rats "Go away, varmints!" >he budges, trying to stand and relocate. But to his shame, doing so he farts explosively, filling the environs with toxic fumes of half digested low-quality grass.

>>14019 >Cannon Hooves puts a hoof on Cross's shoulder. "I can try my best. Know anything about the fellas that took these here fillies?" >>14020 >The rats jump back at the outburst, but quickly realize that Boulder is no threat and continue their gnawing. >>13987 >Across the Hot L Quill and Cloudhead are still examining the other room but couldn't quite hear Boulder over the building sounds. >Maybe if he cried a little louder...

>>14021 ok >manages to sit on his rump >weakly stomps his front hoof >shouts as loud as he can "Cloud? Cross? Where are you, guys?!"

>>14022 >Cloudhead and Quill could hear that. >Boulder's hooves are shorter than they have been in weeks.

>>14023 >tries to get to the door "Help! This barn is full of varmints!"

>>14024 >Boulder manages to roll off of the bed, but getting across the splintered floor is too much of a challenge. >He is held back by snagging pieces of wood. >Cloudhead and Quill, alerted enough the second time, are alerted further. >On his way out of the bed Boulder manages to accidentally crush a few rats.

>>13987 >He thinks about how to explain himself... >...only to end up looking down at the floor, scuffing at it with a hoof in embarrassment >How could anypony believe something as absurd as a ghost clown following them around? "U-Um, well... You see..." >He begins, with a long, drawn out pause "We visited Manehattan; not too long ago. We, uh... Kinda ended up in a bad part of town, where there was this-" >>14020 >Cloudhead's explanation is abruptly cut short as a nearby Rogue Gaseous Expulsion hits the resonant frequency of the entire building, giving him pause >Perked up and alert, he looks around in confusion "Huh?" >After hearing nothing else, he then attempts to continue his story with Quill "A-Anyway, so there was this clown, and-" >>14022 >>14024 >Clearly hearing that something is amiss, Cloudhead gallops over to the other room >Opening the door, he is taken aback both by the bizarre scene before him, and the noxious fumes "What the hay is happening in here?!" >He cries out before zipping in to bonk some rats

>>14029 sorry, I actually hoped the fumes would deter rats "I dont like this barn."

>>14029 >With Cloudhead on the scene the rats quickly scatter, but not before he squashes a good 12 of them. >Thankfully they weren't able to do much more than give Boulder his needed trim... although they did an awful rough job of it. >The floor is about as comfortable as the bed. >>14033 I was thinking of the rats as undead so they would actually heal from poison damage, but they are kind of sub-enemies because they are too weak to be a battle on their own. On their own... >Even with the rats gone something doesn't feel right.

>>14021 "I know there was red pegasus with an orange mane, and there were these expedition-raisin' stallions back in Ponyville that got the fillies all excited for the west..." >Cross fills him in with as much information as he can. >He's absolutely and totally trusting of this stallion he's chanced upon in a night of screams, apparitions, and scream-summoned clown apparitions. holy kek the Hot L shenanigans

>>14036 "Orange Blaze?" >Cannon Hooves steps back and is silent. >Just when Cross is about to say something, he speaks with pain in his voice. "He served with me in the Equestrian Armed Forces, I retired before him. Came here to visit yesterday"

>>14035 >the rats have a fart fetish

>>14035 >Quill follows Cloudhead in from a respectable distance, a hoof covering her snout. "Ahem. H-hey. You're up." >She's clearly trying not to gag as she lingers in the door way. "That's... a lot of dead rats." >Quill lights her horn as she trots in, using telekinesis to float the dead squashed rat bodies into one corner of the room. If the room has a carpet, she uses the carpet to cover them up. "Er, there. Good as new. Probably."

>>14041 >As Quill lifts a tattered rug to the corner it reveals that the rug was being used to hide an open hole in the floor.

>>14033 >>14035 >>14043 "I don't like this place either. Are you OK?" >He asks as he warily peers into the hole in the floor

>>14038 >At the mention of prior service, Cross shows his own bit of pain through a wince. "...Did he seem off? I don't imagine an EUP pony would just up and do something as bad as foalnappin'."

>>14045 >The hole goes into the crawl space under the Hot L. >There doesn't appear to be anything noteworthy down there. >>14046 >Cannon Hooves continues. "When he got back from service he found his wife with another stallion. She won't let him see his foals"

>>14048 >Cross shakes his head. "That's no way a guard oughta be treated after service." >He stops to run a hoof through his mane. "So, he might be a family pony done wrong—/really/ wrong—but what is he doing with these three Ponyville fillies? This ain't no place for just any old field trip." >He lowers his hoof. "I just wanna meet him, now. Honestly speakin', I wasn't too against takin' the fillies out west, granted they had the right ponies looking out for 'em. I just need to know what he's thinking."

>>14052 >Cannon Hooves looks up at the cloudy sky. "Sorry, but he didn't mention any fillies. He did say he was going to Jacobstown where they found gold but nothing else of interest to you" >He pauses, turns away, and begins disappearing into the night. "Good luck Marked Cross"

>>14054 "Yeah, I s'pose that's all I needed to know. Thanks a bunch. And thank you for your service, Cannon Hooves." >For a time, Cross looks up into the sky, too. His ears prick in listening. >Then, with a final scuff on the path, he aligns himself with the silhouette of the mountain in the distance, and turns to make his way back to town.

>>14055 >After walking for a few minutes the grass turns to sand, still no sign of the town.

>>14066 "Uh... was it always this sandy?"

>>14068 "No" >As Cross continues into the desert he passes stones and cacti. >A ways in he comes across a railroad track. >still has the pink whistle No ghost trains out tonight, but if there were you could probably suplex them anyways. >Back at the Hot L a rumbling begins to emanate from the walls... >It couldn't be a ROUL, those don't exist. >Right?

>>14070 "Who said that?" >His ears are folded back in listening, until he comes to a stop right beside the tracks. >He huffs to himself. "Whatever, this mission's through. Just gotta get back to town..." >He looks up and down the rail both ways. >you could probably suplex them anyways kek, thank you for the reminder

>>14071 >There is no clear sign of the town in either direction. >Cross is pretty sure the track was going through grass back at Prairie Post. >It's been an hour or two by now.

>>14070 >his ears stand up at the rumbling "It ain't me doing."

>>14070 >Quill takes a wary step back from the walls. "Um.... no, I feel that too." >She bites her lip. Her horn lights. "Well whatever it is, we shouldn't be inside this rickety building."

>>14070 >>14073 >>14074 >Feeling a bit fearful, Cloudhead tucks his tail and wings close to his body as his eyes dart around the room >Whatever fresh gift from Tartarus is coming their way; he doesn't feel like sticking around to see what it may be "I don't want to be here anymore... We should really go find Cross." >He suggests before hurrying over to Boulder's side once more to help move him along

I'm so happy. I have something important to share! The line I made up at >>14029 about Boulder's trumpet reaching the resonant frequency of the building, was based off of an absolutely ancient 4chan story that has been buried in the depths of my mind for years I thought it was lost to time, but I actually managed to find it. Behold. >The sound gradually transitioned into a heavily modulated low-RPM tone, not unlike someone firing up a Harley. I managed to hit the resonance frequency of the stall, and it shook gently. That one line has been firmly engraved in my subconscious for nearly two decades now, and it still makes me kek. You too may now visualize in your minds eye Boulder blasting out Harley engine noise ...On a side note, I can't believe I've become such a boomer oldfag that I remember when those posts were still new and fresh

>>14072 >He brings his voice up boldly. "Hello? Any uh, any voices know the way to Prairie Post?" >>14076 holy shit ^:) kek

>>14076 Woah, downloaded! That's an impressively old gem; I'm glad you managed to dig it up. God save me the mental image will never go away even if I get dementia. >>14077 >Cross's voice echos off the rocks. >The wind whistles as a tumbleweed blows past him.

>>14075 "Agreed, Cloudhead." >Quill trots to the opposite of Boulder to help, too. She lights her horn to open the door for them. "I didn't think it was very bright of him to wander off on his own anyways..."

>>14075 >>14079 >Cloudhead and Quill help Boulder out of the room, down the hall, past Cotton... >She's asleep at her desk. >They aren't going to cover much ground with Bouler dragging. >Whatever is behind them is scratching rapidly. >Cotton mumbles in her sleep. "Quit down Rodney"

>>14080 >musters all his strength to both walk and call out "Miss! Miss!! Something is trying to level the barn, but it ain't me! Run!"

>>14081 >Miraculously Boulder manages to walk up to Cotton on his own strength before collapsing. >As this happens the biggest rat anypony in the party has seen runs around the corner of the hallway with a bunch of smaller rats at it's feet. >Cloudhead and Quill stand between this monster and the lobby. >In the lobby Cotton wakes up and runs to the corner to see the commotion. "Oh no why did you make him mad!" Finally! I have been slacking lately. Quill looked pretty goofy before I colored her. You'll also be happy to know I have a dungeon planned you will get to soon.

>>14083 Battle music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_s5Wfjmg-I

>>14078 >Cross takes a right, and starts walking. "This is going to take a while, isn't it?" >He laments. the giant rat who makes all of the rules go ponies go

>>14085 "Yes" >Cross walks. >And walks.. >And walks... >After at least 30 minutes the terrain becomes rougher and plateaus arise from the horizon. >This can't be the right way.

>>14083 "I-It's not our fault!" >He cries about before going in for a low altitude, fast bopping run on the small rats... Twice >The Big Cheese approaches Also Quill's expression accuRATely describes the situation kek

>>14083 "Yeah, you could have warned us about the ghastly pony-sized rat!" >Quill lights her horn, casting a fractional spell at Rodney the Rat. kino picture anon, I love the process art

>>14088 >>14090 >Cotton yells at Quill. "How dare you call him ghastly! Rodney is sweet and cuddly" >Cloudhead hits the rats for 6 and 2 damage. >Quill sucks away 6 HP from Rodney. >Cotton's face contorts to shocked sadness. "NO! How could you? Stop hurting them!" >Rodney gets a strong bite in on Quill for 9 damage and inflicts poison, which deals 1 damage this turn. >The rats hit both Cloudhead and Quill for 3 damage. Damn, unlucky rolls on your first turn Quill. It looks worse than it is though; you have enough information and tools for this to be easily in your favor if you use good strategy together.

>laments "If only I had my armor."

>>14087 "Shut it." >Cross turns around. He lets out a very unhappy snort and walks a little faster the way he just came.

>>14094 Strat talk time So hold on a moment. Since it was previously alluded to, are these rats actually undead or not? Because I just realized that if they are, I can heal Quill back up via items while she can just whip out the one shot nukes using the heal spell

>>14096 >Cross continues to follow the track. >Thankfully even in the dark it's easy to tell where it is. >The town comes into view. By the time Cross is at the town the fight has been over for a while, so the party can merge when that's done and time passes for everypony but Cross. >>14097 I wouldn't let something slip then change my mind. I won't hold your hoof in the next dungeon though; I'm considering this a warm up after not having battle for a while plus it's Quill's first.

>>14094 >Quickly stuffs two small apples into Quill's mouth >Doctors hate him! I think I have two small apples? Realizing I may have forgotten to update my inventory list at some point

>>14094 >>14103 "Ow..." >Quill grumbles out. She scowls at Cotton. "Well, if Rodney was such a sweetheart, he wouldn't be blocking the way! If he doesn't stop attacking us, we won't have a choice! And trust me, I've killed worse--" >Quill is then appled before she can finish. >Yummy "Thanks, Cloudhead... I can shield you or heal you back if you need." Sanity check, but Cloudhead has one more action as pegasus, yeah?

>>14106 He's using two 5 HP healing items which is two actions. Also remember that shield only protects against magic damage. >>14103 You have three, so after this turn you will have one.

>>14095 I /really/ regret just going on with the mission to leave town, kek

>>14107 Gotcha, thanks. I'll try to implement the strat in a way that doesn't seem metagamey >After she's recovered a bit from the bite, and recalling the poison damage she took, Quill lights her horn and casts a heal spell towards the mass of rats. >If she's right, they won't be a problem anymore >If she's wrong, at least Cotton won't be as upset at her

>>14103 >>14106 >>14113 >Quill heals 10 HP from Cloudhead's apples, but loses 1 HP to poison damage. >Quill's heal spell hits the crowd of rats. >20 rats scream in unison as they are fried out of being. >Cotton gasps. "Run away Rodney!" >Rodney snarls enraged. >He lunges for Cloudhead and scratches him for 3 damage.

>>14127 >The remaining rats are to weak to attack, they just tickle a little.

>>14127 >Makes use of the last two small rats as a launching pad to deliver Rodney a high speed snoot boop

>>14127 "Yeah, Rodney! Run away!" >Quill hollers out. She follows behind Cloudhead, and bucks directly at Rodney's face with her back hooves

>>14129 >>14137 I got home late and I need to get to bed now; I'll update this in the morning.

>>14129 >>14137 >Cloudhead hits the rats for 6 damage, leaving two holes in the floor where his hooves hit. >He leaps up but stumbles, only doing 1 damage to Rodney. >Quill goes in for the takedown... 1 damage! >Rodney retaliates scratching Cloudhead again for 3 damage. >Boulder watches Cotton frantically dig through her desk for a rancid hunk of cheese.

>>14143 >Takes a lunch break to eat his last Small Apple before bopping the giant rat once more

>>14143 >Quill illuminates her horn, prepping another heal spell, this time aiming it directly at Rodney as Cloudhead goes in for his attack boop.

>>14144 >>14147 >Cloudhead heals 5 HP and deals 2 damage. >Quill's heal spell comes out half-baked, doing 8 damage. >Rodney bites Quill for 1 damage but doesn't break the skin. >Cotton finds the cheese and rounds the corner, preparing to throw. "Rodney, catch!"

>>14148 >Alarmed by the arrival of backup, Cloudhead charges in once more with two blows, eager to be done with the abnormal rat before things get worse

>>14148 "Oh no you don't!" >Quill dives in and attempts intercept the cheese before it reaches Rodney

>>14150 >Cloudhead hits Rodney for 1 and 5 damage. >Quill blocks the cheese and it lands behind her relative to the big rat. >Rodney is seriously beat up; he can't continue to fight in this state. >He scurries away into the darkness. >Cloudhead and Quill each gain 15 XP. >Cotton trots over to them. "You didn't have to hurt them! Your not welcome here anymore" >She picks up the cheese with her mouth and canters after Rodney.

"Methinks we need to level the whole town. There only heretecs here. Me needs good meal and set-o-armor, and then me prolly can do that."

>>14153 >Quill scoffs. "You're telling me. She owes me twenty bits." >Rolling her eyes, she trots back to Boulder and helps him walk if he still needs it.

>>14152 "I really don't like it here anymore... Why can't everypony just be normal, like back at home?" >He grumbles >Knowing that they won't be spending the night here any longer, Cloudhead walks over to the front desk and sets the room key on the counter >After a moment of consideration, he decides to check behind the counter to see if there's anything interesting... >...or if he can help himself to a refund

Cross is going to be pretty cross when he finds out about what's happening here based as hell Cloudhead, though

>>14157 >Crumpled paper... >Torn paper... >Broken pencil... >Chewed gum... >Here's something! >Cloudhead finds Cotton's diary. >Maybe she wrote where she puts the bits in there somewhere. LOL you guys are assholes; I dare you to read it

>>14160 >Unravels the lump of paper to examine it

>>14160 Assholes? We?

>>14161 >It's all tic-tac-toe. >>14162 Read the diary and find out. You were very rude to Rodney hurting his friends and he was justified in attacking you If your going to read it here's some advice to speed things up: it's above Cloudhead's reading level so Quill is the only one here that can read it We should get things moving so that Cross and Boulder can come back in play

>>14164 >Feeling disappointed over all the wasted bits, Cloudhead trudges over to Boulder's side to help move him along "Let's get out of here."

>>14160 BOULDER DID NOTHING WRONG

>>14164 >Quill pockets the diary herself and vows to save it for a boring train ride or slow night. >It's not her bits but at least it's something. >She then nods and trots back to Cloudhead and Boulder and opens the door outside with her magic. "Agreed. Let's go find Cross Hopefully he's been having a less exciting time than us."

>>14165 >>14168 >The three in the Hot L exit into the dark and chilly night. >The only place with a light on now is Ron's Superior Saltlick, and even then it's dim. >There is no clue as to where Cross went. >Quill can tell that it's not a good idea to go far out there; eyes can play tricks on you and it's easy to get lost. You can pass time to when Cross arrives or go in the Saltlick and then pass the time. Boulder will be able to move again with 5 HP in that time. I wonder how Prickly's bathroom break is doing.

>>14171 >After a few hours milling around town in the dark the party can hear hoofsteps. >By now Boulder can walk by himself. >They find that the source of the hoofsteps is Cross!

>>14181 "Woah, hey... ponies!" >His voice is bedraggled, and his ears droop back with it. >Cross is thoroughly ragged: grains of orange cover every last hair on him, and the least grouped of them are the hoof-thick rings of sand stuck to his sweaty fetlocks. >Still a bit punch-drunk, he smiles through his wretched state. "Well, my little midnight run worked out. Ol' Cannon Hooves pointed us in the way of Jacobstown. There'll be gold for sure, and I have a good feelin' there'll be fillies." >He looks everypony up and down, and his smile falls. "You uh... out for your own adventure? There's nothin' but rails and tumbleweeds outta town."

>>14182 "You found where fiilies go? Thank Celestia!"

>>14182 "Cross. You're okay." >Quill gives Cross a greeting nod. "We had a bit of a confrontation at the Hotel. It had a major rodent problem, and so we, er. 'Decided' not to stay the night." >Quill makes little air quotes with her hooves at 'decided'.

>>14187 "Yup, just gotta split." >>14188 "Yeah, good to see everypony's in one piece." >Cross raises a brow as she continues. "...Feathers? What's she talkin' about?"

>>14189 "Bunch of weird small rats came outta nowhere and tried to eat Boulder while he was resting. We scared 'em off and got out of there, but then a really, really big rat came after us..." >He explains, raising his forehooves high and wide to visualize the sheer size of said rat "...beat that one back too. But the mare running that place got mad at us for defending ourselves for some reason, sooo... We lost our place for the night." "And now we're here." >He concludes in a matter-of-fact way, before letting out a weary sigh "I'm already missing Ponyville."

>>14194 >Cross shakes some his fatigue and nods along. Then, he turns to everypony. "Sooner we get those fillies, lads—and lady—the sooner we can get 'em back to Ponyville, and be on our merry adventurin' way." >He scuffs the ground beneath him. "Well, we're down a Hot L, and we ain't got a fancy hotel like the city." >Cross glances around the night, then looks back with a wry grin. "Saltlick?"

>>14195 >Quill nods. "I can go for some salt-licking. Not like we've got many other options left, right?"

>>14206 >There is a little room blocking entry to the rest of the saltlick. >A bouncer stands in front of the door. "You want in? 20 bits, n'less you have a group"

>>14207 "We do. All of us, we want in together. Please." >Quill confirms, motioning at the rest of the gathered party. "We REALLY need someplace to rest, you see."

>>14208 >The bouncer nods. "Alright, 40 bits will get you all in"

>>14209 >Cross offers up his last 10 bits. "Figures. Mom was right that I'd go dry on a saltlick."

>>14210 >>14214 >The bouncer accepts the bits, stepping to the side to let the party through. "Enjoy yourselves" >As soon as they walk in they are greeted by am aroma that prompts a gag reflex. >Cloudhead and Quill lack the constitution not to throw up, puking right in the door frame. "Hey watch it! Go in the other corner for that" >An irritated patron yells. >Where is the food? >Where are the drinks? >Looks like there is something to nibble on in the corner.

>>14216 >It was at that exact moment Cloudhead realized: He's had enough of this towns shit >How could such a quaint little railway town in the middle of nowhere, be seemingly worse than the depths of Manehattan? >Impossible! >And yet... Ancient pegasi instincts awaken an unfamiliar emotion in his feeble birb mind; a foolish one "HEY!" >He yells out, whirling back around to face the bouncer, wings spread "What the hay is this!? How could you charge anypony a single bit to enter this DUMP?! I want my bits back!" >He demands Of course the zebra went here. Of course.

>>14217 >looks uneasily at Cloudhead "Me not feel strong enough yet to level this barn too."

>>14216 >>14217 >Quill scrunches up her nose >She tries not to retch >She retches a lot >When she finishes retching, she trots over to the bouncer, too, glaring daggers. "Yeah, what exactly are you charging ponies for anyway? The black mold?"

>>14217 >>14221 >The Bouncer stifles a laugh, keeping as straight a face as he can. "Your picky ones aren't you? Our other patrons are satisfied" >He points a hoof at them. "Lead follow or get out of the way. No refunds"

>>14228 >finds unoccupied corner, lifts his tail and takes a dump on the floor >looks at bouncer expectingly "Is me doing it right?"

>>14216 >Cross sits there for a long, long, LONG moment. >Finally, he lifts an ironclad hoof and raises it temptingly. "You've got a few seconds to explain this shitsty 'fore I get real nasty." >>14229 >Seeing Boulder's behavior, Cross almost starts to follow, but opts instead to level a glare on the bouncer like Quill.

>>14229 "That's the spirit!" >The Bouncer calls out. >>14231 "That's not a threat is it?" >He flashes a set of vials. "Maybe you should cool down a little, get some hay in your system" >The bouncer looks very strong even on his own.

>>14232 >Cross does a doubletake at Boulder and the bouncer. >He shakes his raised hoof from side to side. "Hay? No! You fuckin'... You some kind of blind shit? Why's this place chargin' bits?! What have you even got for drinks here, straight shots of piss?"

>>14234 >The bouncer returns a cold blank stare. "We don't have drinks"

>>14238 Boulder has 5 HP. >>14239 Boulder only bought one jumper cable recently: >>12577 >>12601. I checked the old threads in Manehattan and Boulder only bought the jumper cable used on Rarity and a some packs of cigarettes for her there, so he only has one jumper cable now.

>>14237 >Cross stomps his hoof down, shaking his head with rapid onset disbelief. "No refunds my flank. This is a total shakedown." >He nods his head to Cloudhead. "He wants his bits back, and I want mine."

>sighs in a solemn manner >raises his eyes towards the decrepit dirty ceiling and the sunless sky beyond it "Mother Celestia, give me strength!" >He mutters then looks around for something flammable or a supporting post in the wall.

>Fuming, Cloudhead chooses to simply suck it up and leave the establishment... >...for now... >...and walk the short distance over to Bob's >Bracing himself for whatever else he may encounter in this manifestation of Tartarus mistakenly called a town, he peers into the darkness to try and see what it's like inside We should leave this one alone. If all five of us were present, healed up and had more healing items, we could probably be picking our fights, but chances are the dehydrated henchmen would screw us over if we tried right now. Live to fight another day. If we have unfinished business in Manehattan, then we can have some unfinished business here too. Would have been a funny time to have that party cannon lol Although at the rate we're being bled dry of bits over pointless shit, we're never going to be able to buy big ticket toys like that

>>14232 >>14245 >Quill maintains her glare for a few seconds longer. >Noticing Cloudhead backing down, she decides it might be best to as well. "You've made a dangerous enemy today. This isn't over." >She stalks out of the salt lick in pursuit of Cloudhead without breaking eye contact on the bouncer until she's outside.

>Having lost two ponies to the door, Cross stares down the bouncer with a peeled upper lip. >>14244 "Boulder, feathers and uh, Quill are outta here. Much as I hate to say it, it's time to go." >He backs up enough to wait for him in the doorway.

>>14249 >snorts with relief and walks to the door

>>14244 >There are surely vulnerable posts in this structure, but Boulder feels too weak for that now. >>14245 >Bob's saltlick is locked up tight. >Well, as tight as anything else in this town. >Cloudhead can not see inside. >>14242 >>14249 >>14248 >>14252 >The Bouncer grins and nods. "I'm glad that everything was to your satisfaction" >The rest of the night is chilly, but at least the air is nice and clean out there. >Nopony regains HP or SP. >The morning sun rises and soon the next train will be rolling in.

>>14253 >Sprawled out on his back, Cross basks in the morning sun. >His coat has been getting absolutely wrecked, and he's practically painted reddish-orange from head to croup. >He murmurs, before groaning low for everypony to hear. "...This place can... f'huck off.." Prickly? Prickly. I miss Prickly.

>As the group awkwardly stands around, Cross continues his shuffle into the earth. >It's all ochre.

>>14260 >Quill wakes up grouchy and sore all over >For a rich Canterlot snob, the night was practically torture >The first rays of light at dawn come as an immense relief. "Indeed. I assume we're catching the earliest train out of this sorry excuse for a town, yes?"

>>14260 When Prickly gets back I'll make it work. Tornado picks up the outhouse and it lands where the party is or something. >>14269 >There is a map and pricing at the train station. Local ticket prices: >Dodge Junction - 20 bits >Dodge Gulch - 40 bits >Steamboat landing - 20 bits >Jacobstown - 30 bits Long distance tickets (All cost 100 bits): >Canterlot line >Coltifornia >The frozen north >The lands with no name I feel like I have been lagging in general the past week; I hope I can restabilize this week.

I wasn't expecting to get thrown into the next day. I still had things to do. Regardless of that, I need to point out what the "5 IQ plan" was... In order to fit 3 into one room at the hotel, Cloudhead was going to haul a cloud down there to sleep on as his bed. Had some cloud-centric funnies planned to go with it. After getting thrown out, if there was no way to sneak into Bob's through various means, he still would have flown up to sleep on a cloud instead of just roughing it on the ground. Does that change anything?

>>14272 Sorry. Nothing important has happened yet, so we can roll it back to that night. I have been slow lately and wanted to speed things up which I did in a tactless manner. >Cloudhead inspects all around the saltlick, finding weak broken windows on the back. >Crashing through with minimum effort he is faced with another problem: >It's pitch black in there and he can't see anything.

>>14273 We don't need to go back; I'd rather just move on at this point I guess my main point of consideration was if cloud sleeping would count as being restful or not to regain HP/SP. Sort of a portable sleeping bag kind of perk for pegasi

>>14273 May as well just get on with it >>14277 If it works so well for Rainbow then it should work just as well for Cloudhead

>>14277 It makes sense to me, RD is always sleeping in clouds after all. >Cloudhead got better rest than his friends in a cloud and regains all HP and SP. >The cloud floats off a couple of miles but he doesn't have much trouble flying back, costing only 2 SP. For that matter the towns here are all close enough Cloudhead could fly between them. Saves the train ticket bits.

>Cross takes a good long look at the map. >He taps their next (presumably) location. "Jacobstown. Don't know what kind of name "Jacob" is, but it's at least bigger than here. More chance for ponies who make some sense." >He squints at the scribbles north of the town. "And maybe some bits to be found. Seems like it's got some mines..."

>>14282 "Didn't you said you got bearing on fillies?"

>>14284 "There's gold. The fillies want gold. They've gotta be there, and then we can finally get this wrapped up and over with."

>>14282 "At the very least it can't be any worse than this place." >Quill grumbles out, looking spitefully around at the decrepit town. "I vote we hop on the first train out of this dump. If that means Jacobstown, so be it."

>Hoofs over the bits for three tickets to Jacobstown, which he distributes among his companions "I'm gonna skip this train and just fly over there... Gives me a chance to stretch the wings and forget about this place."

>>14308 "You're very generous, Cloudhead. Thank you." >Quill takes her ticket gratefully. "Be safe, we'll hide you under the train seats if you change your mind along the way." >Quill makes her way onto the train, looking for a nice window seat.

>>14308 "I don't blame you at all, feathers." >He pats him on the withers, lingers for a moment, then settles back with the ticket. "Fly safe, Cloudhead." >Cross nods to Boulder and steps aboard the train.

"Me hope we wont need to beat engineer this time too."

>>14312 >>14309 >>14308 >>14313 >With everypony Except Prickly :( in place the train inches forward. >Cloudhead will have a scenic flight. >Quill finds that nice window seat. >She could just watch the view, but this would also be a great time to check out that diary...

>>14317 >Quill glances at the countryside for a few minutes >Then when she inevitably gets bored she indeed does fish out the ill-gotten diary from her saddlebags, and begins to read.

>>14324 >It doesn't take Quill more than a few minutes to read through the entire diary. >Most of the entries are boring; it's a bland account of Cotton's day to day life with very little detail. >Only a few pages stick out.

>>14334 >Quill frowns as she reads it, then she puts it away and vows to send it back as soon as she's at a post office. >She wonders if cheese would spoil in the time it took to send it back

>The train rolls into an area with plateaus and rough rocky terrain. >Cloudhead spots a single glowing tree ahead atop one of them as he soars above. >In the train two sketchy looking stallions dressed like detectives walk through the car from the back to the front, evoking a wave of chatter.

>>14340 >Flies closer to the mysterious tree in order to investigate it

>>14340 >Cross remains in his seat. His eyes are closed, but his upright ears betray his listening.

>>14340 >Quill perks up, looking a little frightful at the 'detectives' waltzing through the train car. >She looks out the window but does her best to watch them through the reflection in the glass

>>14344 >Cloudhead lands on the plateau. >The tree has golden apples! >When he steps closer to it a golden shine shoots through the air in front of him; it must be a force field. >A quick tap with his hoof confirms that. >>14346 "What do you think they're doing?" >Somepony says. "I don't know" >Another replies. >>14347 >Quill watches the strange ponies walk through the door into the car ahead.

>>14349 >Quill clicks her tongue at Cross and nods her head in the direction of the departing ponies >She then gets up and, stealthily as she can, follows them towards the next car over, ears perked to try and eavesdrop more of their conversation

>>14350 >Cross groans firmly, flicks his eyes open, and just stands blearily. He manages his way to the next car, eyes more on the ground than anything else.

>>14349 >Feeling curious, Cloudhead rummages through his saddlebag and draws out his spinny thing >The Key >Seeking its wisdom, he spins it

>>14350 >>14351 >Following one car behind, Quill and Cross aren't noticed. >The mysterious ponies walk all the way to the engine and begin picking the lock on the door. >>14352 >Spin >Spin >Spin >Does it ever stop spinning? >It must be magical... >Wait, magic? >The force field must be magic too! >But... no horn. >It's been a solid two minutes and the spinney thing hasn't slowed down yet.

>>14354 >looking in the window "Me has a bad feeling about this."

>>14354 >Placing The Key back in the safety of the saddlebag, Cloudhead takes to the sky once more >Looking back, he tries to keep a mental note of the general area of the strange tree

>>14356 >Cross has his face smushed up beside Boulder to peer in. "What the hay?"

>>14359 >>14356 >Quill lets out a sigh of relief. "Phew, they're just train robbers. And here I was worried." >She nudges her snout in their direction, and keeps her voice low as she talks to the others "We probably shouldn't get involved with them, weak as we are, but we can always try and scare them off. I dunno if I like the idea of riding a hijacked train."

>>14360 "We rode high jacked train once. Had to beat engineer."

>>14360 >Cross grunts. "I ain't doin' shit until I see somethin' violent happening. And at this rate, it's guaranteed."

>>14358 >It should be easy to find the tree again because it is close to the tracks. >>14360 >>14368 >The "train robbers" successfully pick the lock and open the door. >Stepping in the one on the right asserts loudly: "Turn the train around!" >The engineer panics. "But this train has to go to Jacobstown, there are passengers on board!" >The detective looking ponies back him into a corner. "Appaloosa. They dismount in Appaloosa" >Without a word the engineer caves and pulls a lever, slowing the train down with a noticeable jolt.

>>14370 >>14368 >Quill rolls her eye as she listens to the robbers. "Cloudhead's gonna think we ditched him if we don't show up at Jacobstown. And after he paid for our tickets, too..." >Pursuing her lips, she checks her saddlebags, and finds a small apple that I forgot I gave her when I made her >She offers it to Boulder. "Well, here, anyway. In case things do get ugly..."

>>14377 >chomp >chewing horse noices "Thanks, miss!"

>>14370 >Cross glances around. "Do they just expect a train full of ponies to /not/ be upset?" >He shudders at his memories of... crowd crush. >>14381 >He looks a little hurt at seeing Quill give Boulder the apple. "And I got some snack cakes, too." >He gives Boulder one of his two snack cakes. >>14377 "Well, what's your big idea? Are we making it ugly?"

>>14381 Current party HP and SP: Cross HP 13/17 SP 12/12 Boulder HP 10/22 SP 12/12 Quill HP 10/15 SP 5/12 Cloudhead HP 16/16 SP 10/12

>>14386 Boulder is 15/22 HP now

>>14388 is that including both the snack cake and apple, in the event that he chooses to eat the cake?

>>14386 >crunch >mores horse noices "Thanks, pal!"

>>14386 >Quill gives a helpless shrug at Cross "I dunno. I mean, you're right... They're gonna upset a whole train full of ponies." >She jerks her head behind them "If there's enough of a panic, they'll have to go work crowd control. At least one of them. And I think we could probably take the other one ourselves. Especially if we have the engineer our side."

>>14389 Yes

>>14401 >Cross takes in Quill's words with a hefted upper lip. "Well, I can hold or tie one of 'em down, at least." >>14390 "What we thinkin' here, Boulder? If you think you're ready, I'm ready."

>>14407 >prays to Celestia >nods

>>14407 "We can always try and spur up a passenger riot. That'd get the robbers' attention for sure. Then, we can take back the engine when it's not as guarded." >Quill seems like she's convincing herself about her plan as much as the others. "Or, we ride this thing to Appaloosa, and figure out another way to Jacobstown. Those are our options as far as I see 'em. Fighting outright is probably not a good idea with how beaten up we already are."

>>14412 >Noticing the anomaly, Cloudhead slows down to a hover and watches the train for a moment to see if it speeds back up again >When it doesn't, dismay yet again spreads throughout his pegabirb brain >One of the bits of wisdom that his ol' Pops instilled in him keeps being proven time and time again: >Trains are no good. Do not ride the train. Fly. >Readying himself for another pointless fight over Celestia-Knows-What, he makes a dive for the train >He aims to land on top of the car before the engine, in order to poke his head over the top to try and discern what's going on SKY CHAD rushing to the objective once more ^:) ...the tradeoff for being gimped most of the time indoors lol

>>14411 >>14414 >The train comes to a complete stop. >"I'll go hit the switch" >One of the "train robbers" says before turning around. >"Hey! What are these punks doing watching us?" >His partner turns around too. "Go back to your seats please. We will have this resolved soon and you can be on your merry way"

>plural punks Who? Was I spotted?

>>14415 "And if we don't? I'm quite certain you two aren't licensed to be driving this train." >Quill returns, glaring at them both. "Our tickets are for Jacobstown. I trust you have some sort of explanation for why we're changing course?"

>>14416 I wasn't thinking that hard about it, but since you are at an angle that would be blocked by the room they are in no. They see Quill, Cross, and Boulder. >>14417 >The repo colts flash their licenses. "The railroad company did not pay for this train, so we are taking it back to it's rightful owner. If those dildos have any sense they will pay to refund your tickets."

>>14418 >Quill blinks, dumbfounded >She looks back at Cross and Boulder, then at the repo ponies again. "I... see. You folks sure are proactive. Good luck then, with... This." >She takes a step back towards Cross and Boulder. "They're not train robbers. Maybe we can get out and try to wave down Cloudhead?"

>>14420 >For once, Cross seems remarkably calm in his tone. "No, stay right where you are. I just want to ask them a question." >>14418 >He smiles warmly. "Oh, so are you with the union?"

>>14421 "The union? Ha!" >The other one continues: "We're private contractors. That's better than being in any fucking union" "Look it's nice to chat and all but we need to move this train. Why don't you go tell the passengers it's all right or something capeesh?" >To that note the passengers are confused about what's going on and talking about it, but not panicking like last time.

>>14422 "Well hey, I'm really sorry, too. That's what the Guard would call 'not economically viable'." >With his eyes on the ceiling, he collects his thoughts. >Then, he comes back down, and gives a firm nod. "I think I'm just going to kick your shit in." >Cross gallops forward and throws his full weight into attempting a Takedown on one of the repo colts.

>>14424 >>14422 "B-but they had the right credentials!" >Quill complains, internally prepping for another confrontation

>>14425 So a defend action?

>>14426 Also Cloudhead starts flying because he is on the roof.

>>14426 Yeah she's holding back and defending herself. Ready to jump in with magic if she needs to.

>>14424 >>14427 >Following a facehoof upon witnessing the scene unfold before him, Cloudhead rises up and delivers a swift lightning bolt surprise to the other stallion Feels like a bad idea.

>>14429 sorry, I'm tired of playing what's felt like too safe and straight: feels like I drag the game down and keep things boring. let me know if you have any feedback about how I've played Cross, because I do want to change things up to be a little more stupid and Stooge-like

>>14427 Can Boulder get some sort of divine revelations from time to time for praying to Celestia? ^:)

>>14431 Sure lol

>>14436 Sorry for not responding, my schedule has been packed for the past few days and I'm serious about going to bed at 10:00 PM now. I'm not making exceptions to stay up finishing stuff anymore because that's a slippery slope. I have to cut some stuff up with a chainsaw then I can update this at noon before going to the next job. Also holy shit it feels like I'm carrying this board sometimes. Put down the load for a few days and no activity. I'd appreciate some random ponies and thoughts in other threads from time to time. In fact, I demand Octavia. Octavia is best pony. Post her for me. I'll get that battle screen for you in two hours.

>>14437 Oh yeah, and last chance to do something other than a defend action Boulder.

>prays to Celestia once more "Me will purg the unclean!"

>>14440 I'll give you a 20% chance of it working for the first prayer and you getting a random buff, and increase the chance by 20% for each prayer that is not answered. I guess this makes you a paladin kek. You lose this ability if you commit heresy of course, but that probably won't be an issue.

>>14424 >Cross's takedown on repo 1 succeeds and deals 8 damage. >>14429 >Lightning cracks repo 2 for 9 damage. Cloudhead has burned 2 SP following the train so that's why he's at 6 now. >>14440 >No answer. The success rate resets to 20% when it's answered, and the increased success rate carries between battles. The buffs are pretty good and last for a whole battle so if you want to get meta gamey and save a higher success rate prayer for a boss fight you can. Outside of battle prayers work differently. You can pray routinely and I will give you advice if and when I feel like Celestia should answer. >>14425 >Repo 2 hits Quill for 2 damage, but since she is defending she only takes 1. Battle music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peHAnEmDLWc

>>14444 checked Bucks repo2 in the ribs as hard as he can

>>14444 >Quill snarls as she's hit. "Ow! I didn't even want to fight you, but now I'm gonna buck you up, you wannabe private dick!" >She flares her horn, casting a fractional spell at the repo pony who attacked her.

>>14444 >Cross shakes the repo colt a bit and continues to hold him down. "I hate shitty contractors more than I hate the shitty public!" checked, based prayers and music

>>14453 >Everything gets darker for Cross. >He can see Silly standing over him goading him to screw up and let repo 1 go in a comical manner.

>>14455 >Cross just shakes his head, wraps his hooves tight around repo 1, and continues holding him down.

>>14444 >Strikes Repo 2 twice

>>14449 >Hits for 9 damage. >>14452 >Quill's fractional spell drains 6 HP. >Repo 2 delivers that uniquely amusing expression of pain of somepony getting drained for the first time. >>14453 >>14456 >Cross has no trouble as repo 1 flails feebly and talks big. "I kill any muthafucka that crosses me!" Nice Tavi, I like to imagine she had to take her bow off to swallow because it's on so tight. >>14457 >Hits for 4 and 1 damage.

>>14460 >Repo 2 uses steal on Cross and takes his jumper cables. They take random items, and it occurred to me that if he stole your pink whistle you would have to fight Pinkie Pie.

>>14460 can enemies under hold still be beaten by a party member who doesn't participate in holding?

>>14465 Yes

>>14460 >jumps at repo2 and tries to pin him down

>>14460 >Attacks Repo 2 twice more They got a lot of HP, huh?

>>14461 >Cross doesn't even notice—he's too busy trying to continue holding repo 1. if one of them gets and blows that whistle, it would be hilarious, but that doesn't mean i support it kek

>>14460 >Quill charges for the lever for the train, hoping to get it moving again. >If the conductor is nearby she'd glare at him for being no help at all "I'm getting this train rolling... Then we can shove these jerks overboard!"

>>14467 >Success! >6 damage. >>14476 >The engineer screams. "No! Don't mess with those, I'll move the train!" >He scrambles to the controls throwing a few different levers so that everything is done right. >The train begins to move. >>14469 >The movement of the train knocks Cloudhead off balance and causes him to miss his first kick and nick the second. >Only 1 damage. >>14471 >Cross is also thrown off balance and Repo 1 manages to break loose.

>>14478 >Cross opts to kick the snot out of repo 2 instead.

>>14478 >Strikes Repo 2 twice

>>14479 >>14482 Packed schedule today, I'll get this tomorrow morning.

>>14478 >Quill mare-stares at the conductor, resists the urge to face-hoof, and then prepares to defend herself from any incoming attacks her way.

Holy shit it was a wild night. My day started around 1:30 PM in this dingey ass apartment and I had to drive home. >>14479 >11 damage, KO! >Cross gets back his jumper cables. >>14482 >Cloudhead retargets to repo 1 and hits for 2 and 4 damage. >>14484 The mare stare. That's like, stronger than the care bear stare.

>>14485 I made the battle screen but I forgot to post it, sorry

>>14490 >jumps and lands atop Repo Colt and tries to pin him down

>>14490 >>14485 >Cross kicks a lazy leg out at the repo colt in his latest and greatest attempt at a funny bone takedown.

>>14490 >Attacks twice

>>14493 >Despite being a weak takedown, Boulder is lucky enough to pin the repo colt down. >2 damage. >>14495 >Funny bone has no effect, 5 damage. >>14498 >Hit's for 3 and 2 damage. You have already won, continuing the fight won't be interesting. I should have given these guys 20 attack in retrospect. I'm looking forward to the upcoming dungeon where I'll experiment more with encounters. >The party beats on the last repo colt until he is KO'd. >Everypony gains 25 XP and 50 bits. Just occurred to me that Cloudhead and Quill should have leveled up last fight, oops. >Everypony levels up. >Everypony gains one max HP and SP. >Cross and Boulder gain one ATK. >Cloudhead gains one SPD. >Quill gains one INT. Quill will learn a new spell next level; I'm looking forward to which one she picks because they are all interesting.

>>14499 >Everypony's HP and SP are refilled.

>looks around "Um... uh?"

>>14499 >Cross grunts, then beams at a certain pegasus. "Nice of you to join us, feathers... I'm thinkin' we need to meet like this more often!" >He glances briefly around the train car before patting down the repo colts, searching for anything more than bits. >Knowing about the pains of missing ID from his short-lived time in training, he takes their licenses. "These two are almost more clown than the clown riding my flank..." Surprisingly worth it! Damn any later consequences

>>14499 >Quill exhales heavily as they finally go down. "Well, er. Good job, everypony." >She glances at the conductor. "You're welcome, by the way. I take it we'll be going to Jacobstown after all."

>>14506 >Cross is now the proud possessor of two stolen IDs! >>14507 >The train continues to Jacobstown, stops, and lets our heroes off. >All the buildings here say "FLIM FLAM" on them before what they are. >There is a market, saltlick, apartments... with barred windows? >A mine and some ponies ahead.

>>14510 lol

>>14510 >>14505 >Cross hoofs off one of the IDs to Boulder. "'ey... look, Boulder. We're licensed to kill!" >He taps the (assuming photographs) ID with a sneer and grin. "And if anypony asks about our looks, it's 'cause we used to be straight pathetic." >He stands, looking absolutely proud as he speaks boldly. "Now, let's repossess some fillies!"

>>14515 >looks intently at the ID "Um... Uh... Sun, Horseshoe, Up? Errr... what's-this-letter... Me knows some of those but, what they say together?" >he asks Quill

>>14516 "Let's see what we've got..." >Quill leans over to look at the ID over the Boulder shoulder. "It identifies er. The card owner...as a licensed repo pony." >She'd repeat the repo pony's name, too, if that was on the card. >She looks a little mortified at the idea of someone using a state-issued license for anything besides its intended purpose.

>>14517 "Whats repo pony?"

>>14519 >Quill forces a smile. >This is fine, this is just her life now. "It's, er. A pony who takes back stuff. Like, if you're borrowing something and you can't afford to keep borrowing it, then a repo pony comes and takes it away."

>>14517 >The name on the card is Otto. >>14518 No, but I will whip it up pretty quick. >>14515 'cause we used to be straight pathetic. kek

>>14518 Done, I'm pretty happy with how she came out. Anyone want to do a stock vector edit? It's fun and pretty simple. I'd appreciate Stocktavia because of course I would. And don't even tell me the stock vectors are deformed and not cute.

>>14522 I love her, and I love them. I just don't know where to start with doing the vector edits

>>14523 Pick an image to use as a base and other images for elements you want to use. Paint 3D works fine. Fill bucket tool for colors, copy and paste and eraser for merging images to add elements, and the pixel pen for touching up details. There are also tools that let you draw perfectly curved lines. There is a good example of how this looks in progress here: >>14083 Of course there are the finer details you figure out like having to adjust the sensitivity of the fill bucket, but those are the basics.

>A purple mare approaches the party from behind. "Hello! You folks are new to town. Are you here to work in the mines?"