Ponaria: Symphony of the Neigh [IC II]

[One Tin Soldier]

Beryl also snaps to attention, turning around to look at the new arrivals. She had expected trouble, just not... yet. She opens her senses just to check if they're pony or vampire, but otherwise remains on alert. Frostbite's idea is rather blunt, but if it works...

She mutters back to Midnight "...let's try not to start a fight here."

[Divine Sense]

Beryl also makes a mental note to kick Spirit in the shin for this.

"We'll see about that," he says.


As the trio are leaving and are out of earshot, Beryl's beings smiling a little more than politely and giggles a little "Hee hee, there's more that one way to mess with your enemy. You'd be surprised how often telling a jerk to have a pleasant evening just throws them off. It's hilarious!"

After saying that she bounces over to Frostbite and does the pony equivalent of a playful elbow nudge. "Way to go there, Frost. That's thinking on your hooves! I'm proud of ya!"


Frostbite never stops glaring as the brotherhood ponies leave. Something about this exchange felt off, but he really couldn't put his hoof on what it was. Were they really just going to walk away? There was no way his spell hit all of them.

When they are out of sight, he breathes a sigh of relief and wipes the sweat from his brow. "That could have gone much worse."

Midnight sheathes his sword once more, looking a confused and perhaps a little bit disappointed. "No kidding. After the big show they made of kicking in the door, you'd think that they wouldn't just give up so easily."


"Ahaha, yeah. Thanks, Beryl. Just seemed like a good way to avoid a fight." he seems lost in though for a moment. He trots up to the window, to see if the brotherhood ponies are still around.

"Anypony know anything about the Tanari salt mine?"

"I don't know, but maybe one of the locals might. Ivy, do you know the place he was talking about?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit happily clicks his mandibles at learning so many secrets, of Solaria, coins, and history here today, before quietly climbing back out of the exit. It seems that the zebra mare may not be involved in the Brotherhood, or she may have just been an information broker off to sell information about a valuable coin to the highest bidder. Curious. Perhaps worth looking into more, but for now, he had other work to do.

As he skittered back out past the docks, he climbed up to the best vantage point he could survey the area from, sat down, and rested, waiting for his body to acclimate and return to normal before investigating phase two of the night. Even in rest, though, he kept a wary eye out. The Brotherhood was known to operate in this area, and he didn't want to waste an opportunity to sneak in on a chance encounter while he recovered his breath.

Hide check: [roll0] To hide on a rooftop.

Spending a short rest hiding in this location, until both the spider form and Pass Without Trace wears off, and watching for anything potentially brotherhood-related he can track from up here. Also, I did ask after what plausible reasons the gamblers were suggesting that Solaria might visit for; the King Leo history bit was quite enjoyable, but Solaria visiting sounds plot-relevant.

Perception on dock crime: [roll1]

[DigoDragon]

"Hee hee, there's more that one way to mess with your enemy. You'd be surprised how often telling a jerk to have a pleasant evening just throws them off. It's hilarious!"

Ivy slowly gets up and looks at the broken door, in much the same way a child looks at a favored broken toy. "I hope Master Librarian comes home soon." She trots to the stairs.

"ACE! Can you bring down a bottle of Sovereign Glue?" she yells out.


He trots up to the window, to see if the brotherhood ponies are still around.

The Brotherhood ponies are all gone. Disappeared into the shadows.



"Anypony know anything about the Tanari salt mine?"

"I don't know, but maybe one of the locals might. Ivy, do you know the place he was talking about?"

"The Tanari salt mine... that's a bad place," Ivy replies. "It's where convicts and recaptured slaves go, forced into hard labor as punishment for whatever crimes landed them there."



Hide check: [roll0] To hide on a rooftop.

Spending a short rest hiding in this location, until both the spider form and Pass Without Trace wears off, and watching for anything potentially brotherhood-related he can track from up here. Also, I did ask after what plausible reasons the gamblers were suggesting that Solaria might visit for; the King Leo history bit was quite enjoyable, but Solaria visiting sounds plot-relevant.

Perception on dock crime: [roll1]

The docks were quiet tonight. An occasional sailor or city guard passes by on the street below, but no obvious shady activities are seen.

Most plausible reason: Solaria is visiting the Trent family for business. Maybe to buy those sweet carrots?

[Fable Wright]

Now rested, and his wildshapes reset, Spirit stretches and clamors down from his position back in his regular zebra form, as he begins to work the chant to speak with the spirit-incarnation of Star Spiders. They're likely not natives of the region, given that Arachnea used them as a calling card; the few in this town likely have at some point at least seen Brotherhood members at some point. After ten minutes of chatting with the incarnate soul of star spiders, he should know where the nearest one within five miles is; when he does, he'll head back in that direction and strike up the conversation once again, tracking down the spider in case it's moving from its position.

[roll0]+[roll1] Know: Nature about Star Spiders.

[Beacon of Chaos]

"The Tanari salt mine... that's a bad place," Ivy replies. "It's where convicts and recaptured slaves go, forced into hard labor as punishment for whatever crimes landed them there."
"Slavery, huh? That's messed up. Well, looks our previous plans for tonight are off, so let's go find Spirit and check out these mines. Um... where are they, by the way?"

[DigoDragon]

[roll0]+[roll1] Know: Nature about Star Spiders.

Knowledge: Star Spiders are commonly found in musty old buildings, making community nests high upon stonework structures. They primarily eat insects and are harmless to equines, generally avoiding big creatures. Their bite isn't dangerous, but some might find a small blister or rash if they have certain allergies. At night Star Spiders lie in wait among their webs, with the stars on them facing down. This is to give insects the illusion that they see a night sky and fly upwards, getting entangled in the webs.

Some wizard cultures believe Star Spiders are a sign of good luck, and allow them to nest in their attics. Others might keep a few as pets, since they are generally easy to care for.

Spirit finds a star spider colony of four in a nearby warehouse. Their nest is up on a stone arch support for the building. The spiders are performing maintenance on their web and generally waiting for something tasty to fly into it.



"Slavery, huh? That's messed up. Well, looks our previous plans for tonight are off, so let's go find Spirit and check out these mines. Um... where are they, by the way?"

"I think I can find you a map," Ivy says. She trots to the cartography section and starts digging into some scrolls.

Ace finally comes downstairs, with a book and a glass vial of a thick milky substance. He has a slight ozone smell on his fur. "Found something in the private library on the-- wait, what happened to the front door?"

Ivy comes back and lifts the vial of glue off Ace's back. "The Brotherhood broke it! They got past the wards, Ace! We need to tell Master Librarian about this, somehow!" She sighs and gives a scroll to Frost. "Here's a map, the mines are north of the town of Tanari. It's a pretty rough trip. Very hilly. If you'll excuse me, I need to do something with this door." For lack of ideas, Ivy proceeds to glue the door shut.

"Oh. Well... kind of glad I missed that. I think?"

[One Tin Soldier]

"I think I can find you a map," Ivy says. She trots to the cartography section and starts digging into some scrolls.

Ace finally comes downstairs, with a book and a glass vial of a thick milky substance. He has a slight ozone smell on his fur. "Found something in the private library on the-- wait, what happened to the front door?"

Ivy comes back and lifts the vial of glue off Ace's back. "The Brotherhood broke it! They got past the wards, Ace! We need to tell Master Librarian about this, somehow!" She sighs and gives a scroll to Frost. "Here's a map, the mines are north of the town of Tanari. It's a pretty rough trip. Very hilly. If you'll excuse me, I need to do something with this door." For lack of ideas, Ivy proceeds to glue the door shut.

"Oh. Well... kind of glad I missed that. I think?"

"You didn't miss that much actually. They walked in, tried to get Frost to agree to a deal, he used magic to make them tell where his parents are instead, and then we wished them a friendly farewell."

[DigoDragon]

"You didn't miss that much actually. They walked in, tried to get Frost to agree to a deal, he used magic to make them tell where his parents are instead, and then we wished them a friendly farewell."

"Wished them a...?" Ace is clearly having a hard time believing it went that smoothly. "So, that's it? They know where we are, broke in, and... didn't attack us?"

Ivy finishes gluing the door shut in the literal sense. "I won't question it. ...well, okay, maybe I should, but two members of your team aren't here and those wards were pretty much the only defenses we have!" She walks over to Ace and leans against him for emotional support. Ace awkwardly stands there, not sure how to be a support, other than doing a decent impersonation of a truss.

"Yeah, I guess it's good that they simply left. ...still weird though. I'm gonna be paranoid all night," Ace points out. He grabs the book off his back with a hoof and hands it to Midnight. There's a notable feather bookmark on a specific page. "I looked up Snowsquall's name in the private library, to see if I could find anything related to that guardian creature we fought in the barrow. I found this one book-- it's a bible for the order of the Invisible Pink Unicorn. Snowsquall is listed in the back as one of the member paladins. Maybe if we go ask them for records on Snow, we'll find more info?"

[McNum]

"Wished them a...?" Ace is clearly having a hard time believing it went that smoothly. "So, that's it? They know where we are, broke in, and... didn't attack us?"

Ivy finishes gluing the door shut in the literal sense. "I won't question it. ...well, okay, maybe I should, but two members of your team aren't here and those wards were pretty much the only defenses we have!" She walks over to Ace and leans against him for emotional support. Ace awkwardly stands there, not sure how to be a support, other than doing a decent impersonation of a truss.

"Yeah, I guess it's good that they simply left. ...still weird though. I'm gonna be paranoid all night," Ace points out. He grabs the book off his back with a hoof and hands it to Midnight. There's a notable feather bookmark on a specific page. "I looked up Snowsquall's name in the private library, to see if I could find anything related to that guardian creature we fought in the barrow. I found this one book-- it's a bible for the order of the Invisible Pink Unicorn. Snowsquall is listed in the back as one of the member paladins. Maybe if we go ask them for records on Snow, we'll find more info?"
"Hold on... Does that book mention who the other members of that order were? I'm still looking for any mentions of the name Heliodor. Was..." Beryl thinks she really needs to find out if Heliodor was a stallion or a mare... "Was Heliodor a member?"

Said question was asked both outwards and inwards.

History (Heliodor): Order of the Invisible Pink Unicorn? Also, gender? [roll0]

[Beacon of Chaos]

"So, that's it? They know where we are, broke in, and... didn't attack us?"
"Chances are good they went to warn someone at the Tanari mines that we'd be coming. All the more reason to get there as soon as possible."


Ivy finishes gluing the door shut in the literal sense.
"... Is there a back door to this place? 'Cos if not, we're leaving through the window."


"Yeah, I guess it's good that they simply left. ...still weird though. I'm gonna be paranoid all night," Ace points out. He grabs the book off his back with a hoof and hands it to Midnight. There's a notable feather bookmark on a specific page. "I looked up Snowsquall's name in the private library, to see if I could find anything related to that guardian creature we fought in the barrow. I found this one book-- it's a bible for the order of the Invisible Pink Unicorn. Snowsquall is listed in the back as one of the member paladins. Maybe if we go ask them for records on Snow, we'll find more info?"
Frost moves up to Midnight to look at the book. "...Invisible Pink Unicorn? If they're invisible, how do you tell what colour they are?" He shakes his head. "Are there any of these paladins here in Basuto?"

[DigoDragon]

"Hold on... Does that book mention who the other members of that order were? I'm still looking for any mentions of the name Heliodor. Was..." Beryl thinks she really needs to find out if Heliodor was a stallion or a mare... "Was Heliodor a member?"

History (Heliodor): Order of the Invisible Pink Unicorn? Also, gender? [roll0]

"Heliodor was a stallion," Beryl's inner voice responds.

http://pinkie.mylittlefacewhen.com/media/f/rsz/mlfw383_small.jpg


"... Is there a back door to this place? 'Cos if not, we're leaving through the window."

"There's a back door, but it leads to a weird part of town," Ace comments.

Ivy nods in agreement and adds, "By the town south gate I think."


Frost moves up to Midnight to look at the book. "...Invisible Pink Unicorn? If they're invisible, how do you tell what colour they are?" He shakes his head. "Are there any of these paladins here in Basuto?"

"I don't think so," Ivy answers. "They don't have any permanent temples that I know of. They sort of just wander around and rent spaces with other churches as the seasons change. They'll probably be in Arendale for the festival. I met them two years ago there (don't ask why). The Pink Unicorns are a loose gang of paladins that just keep the peace wherever the crowds go."

[McNum]

"They're at the Dusk Temple in Arendale." Beryl notices herself saying. "It... just makes sense that they are. I was told to go there to 'continue my fight against the darkness', so I might need to meet one of these ponies."

[Jurai]

Crossguard trots up. "Quite the trick, Frostbite." She says, impressed. "The Tanari salt mines, huh... I see." She sighs. "We haven't time to spare."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit sighs in defeat. Of course it wouldn't be that easy. Still, these spiders might know something.

Channeling Speak with Animals, Spirit looks up and asks them if they've always lived here, if they've seen ponies like fangs like their own often around these parts, and breaks off a piece of one of his griffon rations to toss up to the spiders' web as a small measure of thanks for working with him.

[Beacon of Chaos]

"They're at the Dusk Temple in Arendale." Beryl notices herself saying. "It... just makes sense that they are. I was told to go there to 'continue my fight against the darkness', so I might need to meet one of these ponies."
"Well, Arendale is on the way to Tanari, so hopefully you'll get your chance."


Crossguard trots up. "Quite the trick, Frostbite." She says, impressed. "The Tanari salt mines, huh... I see." She sighs. "We haven't time to spare."
Frost nods. "We'll get going first thing tomorrow morning."

[DigoDragon]

"They're at the Dusk Temple in Arendale." Beryl notices herself saying. "It... just makes sense that they are. I was told to go there to 'continue my fight against the darkness', so I might need to meet one of these ponies."

Crossguard trots up. "Quite the trick, Frostbite." She says, impressed. "The Tanari salt mines, huh... I see." She sighs. "We haven't time to spare."

"Well, Arendale is on the way to Tanari, so hopefully you'll get your chance."

"So... I guess we're heading to Arendale and then Tanari?" Ace asks. "Assuming I'm coming, that is. I want to, but I don't want to impose."


Frost nods. "We'll get going first thing tomorrow morning."

"Getting passage on a ship in the morning is easy. That'll get you to Arendale by the end of the day," Ivy adds.



Spirit sighs in defeat. Of course it wouldn't be that easy. Still, these spiders might know something.

Channeling Speak with Animals, Spirit looks up and asks them if they've always lived here, if they've seen ponies like fangs like their own often around these parts, and breaks off a piece of one of his griffon rations to toss up to the spiders' web as a small measure of thanks for working with him.

The Star Spiders seem to converse with one another in order to corroborate their knowledge. "Always lived here. We see many of you around. Many patterns. There were once strange half-walkers around though."

"Yes, for several passings of the great Sky Firefly, they come through here. Smell of dead, but they walked. Attracted many flies, very benefit!"

"They only walk in the darkness. Never in the light. Had fangs like us, but no webs."

"But now no more. All gone. Dead or migrated maybe."

"No more of these half-walkers. Only the warm ones remain. They do not attract flies."

"A sadness indeed."

[Jurai]

"So... I guess we're heading to Arendale and then Tanari?" Ace asks. "Assuming I'm coming, that is. I want to, but I don't want to impose."

"You've more than earned your keep, Ace." Crossguard says. "Your studies into the nature of magic and wizardry will greatly complement those of us on the front lines." She salutes Ace.

[McNum]

"We do need to tell the Paladins about Koldstone. That could have gotten so much worse. But yeah, we got a clue and we need to follow it before to grows cold."

Beryl notes to herself that this might end up as a discussion tomorrow, but... where is Spirit, anyway? "So, does anypony have any idea what Spirit is up to right now?"

[One Tin Soldier]

"I think he went to go find that zebra mare he was talking about? Hopefully he'll just meet us back at the Salamander."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit nods thoughtfully at the star spiders' words, then heads back to the Salamander for the night. Looks like Basuto wasn't a permanent Brotherhood base of operations; looks they were here temporarily to try and flush out the Heart, then left in a hurry. The zombie boat was probably the last of the Brotherhood in this town, come to think of it. Makes a surprising bit of sense.

[DigoDragon]

"You've more than earned your keep, Ace." Crossguard says. "Your studies into the nature of magic and wizardry will greatly complement those of us on the front lines." She salutes Ace.

"Aww, thank you, Cross," Ace says happily.


Beryl notes to herself that this might end up as a discussion tomorrow, but... where is Spirit, anyway? "So, does anypony have any idea what Spirit is up to right now?"

"I think he went to go find that zebra mare he was talking about? Hopefully he'll just meet us back at the Salamander."

"Well, guess that means you all will be leaving to check on him?" Ivy asks in a sad way. "The back door will exit by the town's south gate, close to the inn. It's at the end of the hall on the left, the door marked 'Egress'." Ivy uses her ponykinesis to lift a broom in order to sweep the splinters of door on the carpet.

Ace glances down the hall and then at the party, tapping his chin with a hoof. "Sooo, why don't you all go check on Spirit and get a night's rest. I'll keep Ivy company here, in case the Brotherhood or Master Librarian comes back."

Ivy is stunned by Ace's statement. "Really? I mean, I don't want to keep you from your grand adventure. Triss and Otto are upstairs, so I'm not alone."

"Oh yes, you'll be in safe hooves with a pyro and the spineless wonder," Ace sarcastically agrees. He walks over and takes the broom away with a hoof. "I just don't want you getting kidnapped in the middle of the night as ransom or something. Besides, I can share some magic tricks I picked up on my adventure with you so you can better protect yourself."

Ivy wraps her hooves around Ace and hugs him. Ace blushes awkwardly.


Spirit nods thoughtfully at the star spiders' words, then heads back to the Salamander for the night. Looks like Basuto wasn't a permanent Brotherhood base of operations; looks they were here temporarily to try and flush out the Heart, then left in a hurry. The zombie boat was probably the last of the Brotherhood in this town, come to think of it. Makes a surprising bit of sense.

While he was out, Sheila had spun a web outside behind this building in the alley (hey, it's not webbing inside the inn). She caught a few bats, and is enjoying her nightly snack after she had finished her last cow.

[Jurai]

"Aww, thank you, Cross," Ace says happily.




"Well, guess that means you all will be leaving to check on him?" Ivy asks in a sad way. "The back door will exit by the town's south gate, close to the inn. It's at the end of the hall on the left, the door marked 'Egress'." Ivy uses her ponykinesis to lift a broom in order to sweep the splinters of door on the carpet.

Ace glances down the hall and then at the party, tapping his chin with a hoof. "Sooo, why don't you all go check on Spirit and get a night's rest. I'll keep Ivy company here, in case the Brotherhood or Master Librarian comes back."

Ivy is stunned by Ace's statement. "Really? I mean, I don't want to keep you from your grand adventure. Triss and Otto are upstairs, so I'm not alone."

"Oh yes, you'll be in safe hooves with a pyro and the spineless wonder," Ace sarcastically agrees. He walks over and takes the broom away with a hoof. "I just don't want you getting kidnapped in the middle of the night as ransom or something. Besides, I can share some magic tricks I picked up on my adventure with you so you can better protect yourself."

Ivy wraps her hooves around Ace and hugs him. Ace blushes awkwardly.



While he was out, Sheila had spun a web outside behind this building in the alley (hey, it's not webbing inside the inn). She caught a few bats, and is enjoying her nightly snack after she had finished her last cow.

A MISERABLE LITTLE PILE OF DIGITS! BUT ENOUGH SIGNING! HAVE AT YOU!

Crossguard smiles. "You're quite welcome." She says to the adept.

[McNum]

Beryl looks at Ivy and Ace, trying to get a read if they're just friends, or if one of them carries a torch for the other... or maybe both?

Insight (Ivy and Ace?): [roll0]

"Yeah, we probably should check if he's set up another ambush for us. I don't want that to become a habit." Beryl deadpans.

She looks at the two teens and and remarks in as playful a tone as the Insight roll allows "Ace, Ivy. You two have a nice evening, too."

[DigoDragon]

Crossguard smiles. "You're quite welcome." She says to the adept.

"Yeah, we probably should check if he's set up another ambush for us. I don't want that to become a habit." Beryl deadpans.

She looks at the two teens and and remarks in as playful a tone as the Insight roll allows "Ace, Ivy. You two have a nice evening, too."

"Yep, we will!" Ivy replies cheerfully.



Beryl looks at Ivy and Ace, trying to get a read if they're just friends, or if one of them carries a torch for the other... or maybe both?

Insight (Ivy and Ace?): [10]

Ivy has a bit of 'puppy love' for Ace and it is pretty easy to see it.

Ace is harder to read. He cares about her, but there's something conflicting on his mind.

[Jurai]

"All right, Beryl." Crossguard says. "We've also got to make our report."

[McNum]

"Yeah. Isn't that tomorrow morning?" Beryl asks. "Been trying to remember anything Heliodor all day, but... you know that feeling of you should know something, but you don't?" Beryl looks a little frustrated about it. "At least I know that Heliodor was a stallion, so that's a start."

[Jurai]

Crossguard nods. "Always good to have some information."

[DigoDragon]

When you are ready to take the back door...
The door marked 'Egress' is easy to find at the far end of the hall. When you open the door, it leads to what appears to be a coat closet with a door on the opposite side. opening that door takes you back outside. However, this outside is clear across town. Whereas the college is near the north gate of the city, this exits you near the south gate by a general store (closed for the night). Getting your bearings, you can find your way to the Sleepy Salamander, only a few blocks away.

[McNum]

"Huh. That's the second-strangest thing that's happened to me today..." Beryl remarks off-hoof as they exit the Egress/wardrobe.

She looks around trying to find out where she is, and turns towards the way to the Salamander. "I think it's this way. I hope Spirit got us a room."

[One Tin Soldier]

"We'll see you guys tomorrow. Stay safe." He leaves through the egress with the others.

As they walk away, he sighs slightly. "Off right away in the morning. Again. On another quest that the Brotherhood basically gave us on a silver platter."

[DigoDragon]

She looks around trying to find out where she is, and turns towards the way to the Salamander. "I think it's this way. I hope Spirit got us a room."

As they walk away, he sighs slightly. "Off right away in the morning. Again. On another quest that the Brotherhood basically gave us on a silver platter."

The Sleepy Salamander was going about its business with patrons drinking, eating, chatting, and gambling. The bartender was serving up drinks to a group of guards that came in before you all and you can see the servants taking orders. Rita notices the group and happily trots over.

"So how did the trip go?" she asks, leaning in to Midnight for a hug.

[One Tin Soldier]

The Sleepy Salamander was going about its business with patrons drinking, eating, chatting, and gambling. The bartender was serving up drinks to a group of guards that came in before you all and you can see the servants taking orders. Rita notices the group and happily trots over.

"So how did the trip go?" she asks, leaning in to Midnight for a hug.

Midnight returns the hug, though it is made a bit awkward by the armor. "Well, we all came back in one piece, we got a couple leads, and we managed to save a whole town. So, pretty well, I'd say." He tries to summon up a cocky grin, but it looks a bit forced.

[McNum]

Beryl smiles at Midnight and Rita. They are kind of cute. She wishes for a moment that things could just stay a little happy like this but...

"Don't you get all mopey now!"

She can't help but laugh at it. "Heh. He's not exaggerating, Rita. Koldstone is still there because of us. But I could really use a soft bed and some sleep now. Did our zebra friend book a room?" Beryl pauses for a moment. "...he may have had a giant spider with him."

[DigoDragon]

Midnight returns the hug, though it is made a bit awkward by the armor. "Well, we all came back in one piece, we got a couple leads, and we managed to save a whole town. So, pretty well, I'd say." He tries to summon up a cocky grin, but it looks a bit forced.

"Well, a brave warrior probably needs a good warm meal after such a heroic feat. Maybe enchant a mare with his tale of bravery?" Rita answers.


She can't help but laugh at it. "Heh. He's not exaggerating, Rita. Koldstone is still there because of us. But I could really use a soft bed and some sleep now. Did our zebra friend book a room?" Beryl pauses for a moment. "...he may have had a giant spider with him."

Rita nods positively. "Yes, I saw him rent the same room from before. He had a giant spider with him. Luckily everyone was too busy drinking and playing darts to notice or I would be still mopping urine off the floor."

[McNum]

"Thanks. I'll go see if he's there. And maybe get this armor off for the day."

Beryl does exactly that and goes to the room, looking to see if Spirit is there. Is he?

[Jurai]

Crossguard trots up to the bar. "What's for dinner tonight, Rita?"

[Fable Wright]

When Beryl walks in, she would see Spirit leaning halfway out the window, conversationally talking to apparently thin air about webs. Namely, whether an orb web is best in this wind, or if it would be better to start spinning a funnel web anchored around the windowframe. Either he's talking to his spider with magic, or talking with one of the voices in his head about building a web outside the window.

[One Tin Soldier]

"Right, sorry. Just had another run-in with them where we got everything we wanted and it still feels like they came out ahead. A meal sounds great."

[DigoDragon]

"Thanks. I'll go see if he's there. And maybe get this armor off for the day."
Beryl does exactly that and goes to the room, looking to see if Spirit is there. Is he?

When Beryl walks in, she would see Spirit leaning halfway out the window, conversationally talking to apparently thin air about webs. Namely, whether an orb web is best in this wind, or if it would be better to start spinning a funnel web anchored around the windowframe. Either he's talking to his spider with magic, or talking with one of the voices in his head about building a web outside the window.

Thankfully the giant web is in an alley where it won't freak out more than maybe one or two random winos.



Crossguard trots up to the bar. "What's for dinner tonight, Rita?"

"Vegetable dumplings in a light gravy. It's pretty good with a stout ale," Rita replies.



"Right, sorry. Just had another run-in with them where we got everything we wanted and it still feels like they came out ahead. A meal sounds great."

Rita goes into the kitchen and comes back with a large bowl of dumplings in a vegetable gravy. There's bread on the side as well for dipping. She lays down the food for everyone at an available table and then sits by Midnight, awaiting the tale of his adventure. "The brotherhood you mean? Hmm, haven't heard much of anything about them outside you and your circle of friends. Seems like you have all the luck."

[Jurai]

Crossguard nods. "That sounds excellent, Rita. I'll take one."

[McNum]

When Beryl walks in, she would see Spirit leaning halfway out the window, conversationally talking to apparently thin air about webs. Namely, whether an orb web is best in this wind, or if it would be better to start spinning a funnel web anchored around the windowframe. Either he's talking to his spider with magic, or talking with one of the voices in his head about building a web outside the window.
"Hey Spirit!" Beryl says in a peculiar tone, not quite friendly, but not quite frustrated either. "Talking spider-stuff with your new friend?"

She continues "I have message from the brotherhood for all of us. They said 'You are stupid for trying, and don't do that again.' They busted down the door in the library just to taunt us with that. So, yeah. But Frostbite did some magic and got one of them to to tell him where his parents are. They weren't happy about that one bit. So I wished them a good night and they left peacefully."

"Frostbite is going to want to go to Arendale tomorrow, and I'm planning on going with him. I think most of us are. His parents have been sold to the Tanari salt mine, and we need a way to get them out. I'm not sure how we're going to do that yet, though."

She hurriedly adds "Ace and Ivy are okay. Scared, but okay."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit waves goodbye to his spider, then shuffles back into the room. "Well, I have good news on the parent thing. I remember the smell of one of them, I can turn every ally in a room invisible, and I can walk on ceilings. Extracting them shouldn't be hard at all, and we can do it without spilling blood." He cracks his neck as he tries to work out the kinks from leaning out the window at an angle. "As for the Brotherhood... that's actually quite astounding. They've got the casting to break through the library's wards, confirmed that it wasn't some anonymous third party, magically discerned where all of you would be at the precise time they barge in, and yet they utterly failed to deliver a return message to sender." He pauses while he tries to articulate the words to describe how monumentally meticulous and idiotic they would have to be simultaneously for this to occur, and after a few moments of gesticulating just gives up entirely. "I just don't know anymore. I try to take them seriously, and they throw a move like this at me? They are the least impressive evil cult I've ever dealt with. Professionally, I'm just insulted at this point." He sighs and plops down on the couch, massaging his temples.

"It's good that Ace and Ivy are okay, but I think we should stop in Nabru for a while. By boat, we should only lose half a day of travel there and back, and the Master Librarian said that the sage Azurah would have actual, useful information for us. Probably on this whole Brotherhood-Valiance mess, and quite possibly workable information on their base of operations or their operational objectives in Arendale. It's a stop we should make sooner rather than later, and I'm even willing to give up meeting Clan Henry if it means we get this done before hitting Arendale." He looks at Beryl. "Trust me. We do not want to sandbag that meeting, and adding half a day to a journey plus extraction operation is negligible."

[McNum]

Beryl can't help but laugh a little. "I know, right? Remember that the reason we even know of them was that they created a monster and put out a bounty on the same monster. I mean, who does that? Either they're bad at being secret, or they stopped caring." She pauses for a second. "...that would actually be bad, wouldn't it?"

Beryl then turns a bit more serious. "Listen, I don't think there's anything we can do to make Frost not want to get there as fast as possible. And I don't blame him, he finally has a lead to follow." She thinks for a bit "...I just don't want him to rush in blind, you know? I get wanting to do that, I really do, if I was in his place, I'd be on a boat right now going there. If you think you can talk him into delaying it, you can try, but it's going to be tough. You probably only have as long as the Paladin meeting tomorrow to do so, we're going to ask them if they know anything we can use about those mines. I can't imagine they like slave trading very much."

She suddenly gets an idea "Do you think we could borrow the journal for that meeting? Let them copy the last page with all the body parts?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit shrugs. "I've no objections, as long as we get the book back afterwards." He offers her the volume, then sighs. "The only weighty argument I have that I know he'd even consider is an ultimatum. I don't go to the mines until we've spoken with Azurah. But throwing down the gauntlet towards a friend is a terrible plan at best, and I don't know if he'll listen to high-minded concepts like 'potentionally useful information' or 'they're safe and not going anywhere'." He shakes his head.

"I'll do what I can to come up with a better plan. Hopefully we'll work something out."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Vegetable dumplings in a light gravy. It's pretty good with a stout ale," Rita replies.
Frost walks in behind the others, seemingly lost in thought. He smiles and nods at Rita as she brings the food. He takes a mouthful and chews slowly, not really having much of an appatite. He allows Cherub onto the table to have one of his dumplings.

[DigoDragon]

Crossguard nods. "That sounds excellent, Rita. I'll take one."

Rita serves Crossguard a bowl of dumplings. Another server comes by with the ale. Warm food and cool drink, all within melee.


Frost walks in behind the others, seemingly lost in thought. He smiles and nods at Rita as she brings the food. He takes a mouthful and chews slowly, not really having much of an appatite. He allows Cherub onto the table to have one of his dumplings.

Cherub nibbles eagerly on the dumpling. "It's a trap, isn't it?" the mouse telepathically sends to Frost.

[McNum]

Spirit shrugs. "I've no objections, as long as we get the book back afterwards." He offers her the volume, then sighs. "The only weighty argument I have that I know he'd even consider is an ultimatum. I don't go to the mines until we've spoken with Azurah. But throwing down the gauntlet towards a friend is a terrible plan at best, and I don't know if he'll listen to high-minded concepts like 'potentionally useful information' or 'they're safe and not going anywhere'." He shakes his head.

"I'll do what I can to come up with a better plan. Hopefully we'll work something out."
Beryl goes to the same bed she slept in last time and starts to take off her armor. "Yeah." She sighs a bit. "It's a difficult one. We should see if the brotherhood's old enemies have anything to tell us, like Azurah, that's the smart thing to do. The feel thing to do is to run off and rescue Frost's parents as fast as possible. Take it from somepony who's had to deal with ponies for a living, you need to be careful. Maybe find a way to work with his plan." Beryl continues as she neatly stows the scale mail under the bed. "Which is why the Paladin meeting now also is about the salt mines. We really only needed to tell them about Koldstone and ask if the name Heliodor rings any bells, but... now we need to ask about Frost's parents, too. So, I'll give you this question, as it could help you think up an argument:"

"How does visiting Azurah help save Frost's parents?"

"If you can answer that, you have a chance of convincing him. You're more on top of the whole Azurah and Valiance thing than I am, so you'll have to figure that one out." Beryl moves to a mirror and combs her mane. "Ponies can be really difficult to talk to sometimes. I learned it young, so stuff like this comes naturally. I wouldn't have any clue what to ask a spider about, though. What DO you talk about with a spider?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit snorts. "I've already thought about that question. The only way to make meeting Azurah line up with the goal of saving Frostbite's parents is by staking my help on it, while remembering that I'm the only one who bothered to memorize how they smell. Meeting Azurah might help them stay safe afterwards, but it's a crapshoot that I don't want to lie about." He sighs. "Going to Tanari already jeopardizes our odds at finding and stopping whatever the Brotherhood's up to at the festival. Solaria's going to be there, Valiance wants to kill her and take her throne, and they've got someone with strong sway over their vampire crowd in place already. On the one hand, they're idiots; it's unlikely that they're bringing in artillery for an assassination attempt. On the other, they've got something in place, and we'd be missing valuable days searching for their attempt on the relic hidden in Arendale." He shakes his head. "No time to commission metal-shafted arrows, either, much less harpoon arrows."

He lays back on the couch, closing his eyes. "Speaking with spiders is both simpler and more frustrating. She was quite interested in my perspective on what prey animals will and won't see about her web. She didn't realize how bats track their prey, for example; they don't see a few thin anchor lines very well at all, and if you've got clumps of webbing ready to drop on them as soon as they touch down, hidden behind an alcove? Makes them a much easier catch. We've also had discussions on where to bite, when to bite, and how long to marinate bitten creatures before slurping them up. Maximize the tasty bits, minimize the bile. Construction and food, really. That's all you need to know with them.

"Ponies are harder. They're more complex than any animal, they've got skills and specializations and all sorts of little things like any other hive species, but they've got knowledge of other roles. They can change and rebel and even develop hobbies; little sub-specializations on the side that they do for pleasure. But unlike Druids, they don't plan as well. You've never had to decide whether you need to frantically spin a web as a shield against the bloodless wind, or whether tonight is the one to stockpile water and berries for the week of uncaring desert. You've never had to find out that a hasty choice might force you to venture into purple worm territory for an antidote, or realize that a false move down there might even keep you from reincarnation. You all almost understand us. But you don't understand the terrifying need to be in control. To be on top of things, shielding each other from the worst of it. Knowing that a bit of suffering in the short term is easily worth preventing too much suffering in the long term. Talking with you all, I almost forget that you still fear your allies, hate your enemies, and prefer to rush into things instead of gathering information. And then you all force me to remember. That's the only difficult part."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Cherub nibbles eagerly on the dumpling. "It's a trap, isn't it?" the mouse telepathically sends to Frost.
Frost sighs out loud before replying. Probably. Why else would they just leave without a fight unless they were going to tell me anyway? Still, what choice do I have? I left everything I knew behind to find my parents. I need to find out about my past, my family history, who I really am!

And yet... I don't even know what I'm expecting. He pulls out the picture of his parents that he took from the enclave. It's a faded, sepia-toned scrap that shows a pair of ponies smiling. Silver Amulet said they were still looking for me, but was that really the case? Will they even recognise me?

[DigoDragon]

Frost sighs out loud before replying. Probably. Why else would they just leave without a fight unless they were going to tell me anyway? Still, what choice do I have? I left everything I knew behind to find my parents. I need to find out about my past, my family history, who I really am!

And yet... I don't even know what I'm expecting. He pulls out the picture of his parents that he took from the enclave. It's a faded, speia-toned scrap that shows a pair of ponies smiling. Silver Amulet said they were still looking for me, but was that really the case? Will they even recognise me?

Cherub swallows his food and gives Frost a thoughtful look. "Well, it's like a piece of cheese," he telepathically sends. "Yeah I know, cheese metaphor, but hear me out on this one-- The old farmer has put down a piece of cheese on the floor, expecting you to eat it. But wait! The cheese is on some kind of spring trap. You know going for the cheese will kill you, but what if, and this is just a thought, what if you... get someone else to spring the trap first? Like a rat that's been stealing your food outta your nest at night when you're out hunting for cheese?"

[McNum]

Spirit snorts. "I've already thought about that question. The only way to make meeting Azurah line up with the goal of saving Frostbite's parents is by staking my help on it, while remembering that I'm the only one who bothered to memorize how they smell. Meeting Azurah might help them stay safe afterwards, but it's a crapshoot that I don't want to lie about." He sighs. "Going to Tanari already jeopardizes our odds at finding and stopping whatever the Brotherhood's up to at the festival. Solaria's going to be there, Valiance wants to kill her and take her throne, and they've got someone with strong sway over their vampire crowd in place already. On the one hand, they're idiots; it's unlikely that they're bringing in artillery for an assassination attempt. On the other, they've got something in place, and we'd be missing valuable days searching for their attempt on the relic hidden in Arendale." He shakes his head. "No time to commission metal-shafted arrows, either, much less harpoon arrows."

He lays back on the couch, closing his eyes. "Speaking with spiders is both simpler and more frustrating. She was quite interested in my perspective on what prey animals will and won't see about her web. She didn't realize how bats track their prey, for example; they don't see a few thin anchor lines very well at all, and if you've got clumps of webbing ready to drop on them as soon as they touch down, hidden behind an alcove? Makes them a much easier catch. We've also had discussions on where to bite, when to bite, and how long to marinate bitten creatures before slurping them up. Maximize the tasty bits, minimize the bile. Construction and food, really. That's all you need to know with them.

"Ponies are harder. They're more complex than any animal, they've got skills and specializations and all sorts of little things like any other hive species, but they've got knowledge of other roles. They can change and rebel and even develop hobbies; little sub-specializations on the side that they do for pleasure. But unlike Druids, they don't plan as well. You've never had to decide whether you need to frantically spin a web as a shield against the bloodless wind, or whether tonight is the one to stockpile water and berries for the week of uncaring desert. You've never had to find out that a hasty choice might force you to venture into purple worm territory for an antidote, or realize that a false move down there might even keep you from reincarnation. You all almost understand us. But you don't understand the terrifying need to be in control. To be on top of things, shielding each other from the worst of it. Knowing that a bit of suffering in the short term is easily worth preventing too much suffering in the long term. Talking with you all, I almost forget that you still fear your allies, hate your enemies, and prefer to rush into things instead of gathering information. And then you all force me to remember. That's the only difficult part."
"Oh if we're talking about crapshoots, what about me being told to 'continue the fight against the darkness' by going to the Dusk Temple in Arendale? I wish that was a little clearer. Will it help against the brotherhood? Is the 'the darkness' something else? Do I get a fancy 'I am Heliodor!' button or something?" Beryl shakes her head as a sign of frustration. "I'm willing to wait on that, to visit Azurah and all. Anything I can learn before going to that temple will probably help, but I want to go there before the festival... just in case I need to do something to help there."

Beryl walks over to the window and looks at Sheila outside.

"Hmm, my inner voice has been telling me I can speak mouse all day. I wonder if I can speak spider, too?"

She takes a deep breath and channels her power inwards. The language of animals suddenly seems like something she does know. [Speak with Animals]

"Umm, hi? I'm Beryl, we've been traveling together." And the Beryl realizes she really doesn't know all that much about spiders to ask anything smart. "I hope you're enjoying your bats. I'd offer to help season them for taste, but I don't know if the spice I have is dangerous to spiders... I don't want to ruin your snacks." Beryl makes a mental note to ask Spirit about that.

[One Tin Soldier]

Rita goes into the kitchen and comes back with a large bowl of dumplings in a vegetable gravy. There's bread on the side as well for dipping. She lays down the food for everyone at an available table and then sits by Midnight, awaiting the tale of his adventure. "The brotherhood you mean? Hmm, haven't heard much of anything about them outside you and your circle of friends. Seems like you have all the luck."

"Yeah, they seem to have really taken a real shine to us. I almost can't tell if they're trying to kill us or ask us out on dates." He snorts with amusement, before digging into his dumplings.

"...But really, it feels like they're using us somehow. They've practically been leaving signposts telling us where to go. And anything they want us to do can't be good in the long run."

[DigoDragon]

"Umm, hi? I'm Beryl, we've been traveling together." And the Beryl realizes she really doesn't know all that much about spiders to ask anything smart. "I hope you're enjoying your bats. I'd offer to help season them for taste, but I don't know if the spice I have is dangerous to spiders... I don't want to ruin your snacks." Beryl makes a mental note to ask Spirit about that.

"I have no use for your... 'spice', whatever that is. My venom is enough," Sheila replies. "...hmm, another half-walker that speaks my language. That is curious."


"Yeah, they seem to have really taken a real shine to us. I almost can't tell if they're trying to kill us or ask us out on dates." He snorts with amusement, before digging into his dumplings.

"...But really, it feels like they're using us somehow. They've practically been leaving signposts telling us where to go. And anything they want us to do can't be good in the long run."

"Well, then perhaps you should stop doing what they ask of you," Rita replies as she dotes over Midnight's mane. "You have agency, do you not? Make your own choices and force the Brotherhood to meet you on your terms. If you just keep following them wherever they tell you to go, you'll always remain in their shadow."

[Jurai]

Crossguard nods. "Agreed, Rita, but right now, we are as a molten metal, following a mold. If we could find a weak point in the mold, we could break it."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Cherub swallows his food and gives Frost a thoughtful look. "Well, it's like a piece of cheese," he telepathically sends. "Yeah I know, cheese metaphor, but hear me out on this one-- The old farmer has put down a piece of cheese on the floor, expecting you to eat it. But wait! The cheese is on some kind of spring trap. You know going for the cheese will kill you, but what if, and this is just a thought, what if you... get someone else to spring the trap first? Like a rat that's been stealing your food outta your nest at night when you're out hunting for cheese?"
It's a good thought, but not all traps can be so easily defeated. Remember the ice trap in the barrow? In this case there will probably be Brotherhood ponies waiting for us. We'd have to find a way to, I dunno, bypass that trap altogether.

[McNum]

"I have no use for your... 'spice', whatever that is. My venom is enough," Sheila replies. "...hmm, another half-walker that speaks my language. That is curious."
Beryl smiles contently as she actually understands what Sheila is... saying? "Yeah, it is curious for me, too. These last few days have been strange..." She gets a stupid idea, but there's just no way Sheila would know this, and yet... "...one day I'm just a baker and another I'm told I'm Heliodor, and can now talk to spiders. But I doubt that name means much to you."

[DigoDragon]

Beryl smiles contently as she actually understands what Sheila is... saying? "Yeah, it is curious for me, too. These last few days have been strange..." She gets a stupid idea, but there's just no way Sheila would know this, and yet... "...one day I'm just a baker and another I'm told I'm Heliodor, and can now talk to spiders. But I doubt that name means much to you."

"I do not know of these terms you speak of. Baker? Heliodor? Such concepts are not known in the spider world."



It's a good thought, but not all traps can be so easily defeated. Remember the ice trap in the barrow? In this case there will probably be Brotherhood ponies waiting for us. We'd have to find a way to, I dunno, bypass that trap altogether.

"I guess you're right. I wonder if Ivy has been there since she was... well, I guess a criminal before?" Cerub asks before finishing his dumpling.


Crossguard nods. "Agreed, Rita, but right now, we are as a molten metal, following a mold. If we could find a weak point in the mold, we could break it."

Rita leans on Midnight and thinks for a moment. "Well, I know a guy who knows a guy... one option is to get yourselves smuggled inside the mines posing as criminals sent there for hard labor."

[McNum]

"I do not know of these terms you speak of. Baker? Heliodor? Such concepts are not known in the spider world."
"Oh, right. A baker is a..." Beryl thinks quickly 'Half-walker means half the legs of a spider, probably!' "...half-walker who makes food for other half-walkers. We know how to make it taste just right." Beryl hopes that explains it "And Heliodor is some old half-walker warrior whose powers are given to other half-walkers. I'm one of those."

Beryl suddenly notices her own stomach grumbling a bit. "...I also need to feed, it seems. It was nice talking to you. Enjoy your bats."

She switches back to Common and looks at Spirit. "I can speak spider. Neat!"

[One Tin Soldier]

"That could work," Midnight says hopefully. "Maybe with Ivy's help disguising ourselves, the Brotherhood wouldn't recognize us. We could go and get Frost's parents before they even know we're there!"


...Oh right, I still haven't told you what happened at Koldstone. Well, when we arrived last night, it looked like the place was completely deserted. The only sign that anyone had been there recently was a single lantern hanging outside the inn..." Midnight recounts their adventure for the second time tonight, this time focusing more of his attention on telling the story right than trying to edit out any details (and only a bit of embellishment of his own role in the events). He also details the encounter they just had at the Library, and their plans for where they are going next. "...And after that, we're going up to Arendale for the festival. Which I guess means that I'd have to meet you there if we want to attend the festival together."

[Jurai]

Crossguard shakes her head. "And we'd then be occupied starting a slave rebellion at the salt mines, allowing the bees to collect their nectar. That's JUST asking for trouble." She says.

[DigoDragon]

He also details the encounter they just had at the Library, and their plans for where they are going next. "...And after that, we're going up to Arendale for the festival. Which I guess means that I'd have to meet you there if we want to attend the festival together."

Rita nods. "I would love to meet you at the festival."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"I guess you're right. I wonder if Ivy has been there since she was... well, I guess a criminal before?" Cherub asks before finishing his dumpling.
It didn't really seem like she would have, but I guess it couldn't hurt to ask her what she knows.


"That could work," Midnight says hopefully. "Maybe with Ivy's help disguising ourselves, the Brotherhood wouldn't recognize us. We could go and get Frost's parents before they even know we're there!"


Crossguard shakes her head. "And we'd then be occupied starting a slave rebellion at the salt mines, allowing the bees to collect their nectar. That's JUST asking for trouble." She says.
Frost overhears this part of the conversation. "Hmm. That place is designed to keep people in, rather than out. Plus, it's not like disguises helped us earlier. The brotherhood are probably using divination to keep track of us."

[DigoDragon]

It didn't really seem like she would have, but I guess it couldn't hurt to ask her what she knows.

Cherub nods and licks his little paws.

[McNum]

Beryl, sensing that the conversation is over, heads back out to the main room. She quickly asks her inner voice if this means she only can speak spider, or if it works for more... "I don't know an animal it won't work on!" the voice responds. Feeling she still has a little more time to go with this, she decides to do something amusing with it.

As she approaches the table, she greets everypony.

"Hi everypony, sorry for the delay. I needed to ask Spirit something first." She then looks around to see if Cherub is there. "He helped me try out something new..."

As she spots the little mouse she clears her throat and says "Sque-squeak. Squeee? [Hi Cherub, how are you doing?]"

[DigoDragon]

"Sque-squeak. Squeee? [Hi Cherub, how are you doing?]"

Cherub squeaks back, "[Alright I guess. Trying to explain to my partner why I think the mines are a trap.]"

[McNum]

Cherub squeaks back, "[Alright I guess. Trying to explain to my partner why I think the mines are a trap.]"
Beryl, delighted that Cherub seems like a much more pleasant conversation partner than Sheila already squeaks back: "[Yeah... I hear you. We can't trust the Brotherhood without checking it with somepony else.]" Beryl gets a feeling that she won't be able to speak animal for much longer. "[Listen, I can only speak Mouse for a few minutes more. If you need to talk to me later, get my attention somehow.]" She adds "[I don't suppose you know anything about this Heliodor thing?]"

As Beryl is asking that, she gets an odd feeling that she may be looking really silly sitting there squeaking at a mouse.

"So, um... I can speak mouse now!" she hurriedly adds, hoping it explains enough.

[One Tin Soldier]

Rita nods. "I would love to meet you at the festival."

"Great!" Midnight practically beams at Rita.


It didn't really seem like she would have, but I guess it couldn't hurt to ask her what she knows.



Frost overhears this part of the conversation. "Hmm. That place is designed to keep people in, rather than out. Plus, it's not like disguises helped us earlier. The brotherhood are probably using divination to keep track of us."

"It's not like we ever really got a chance to try them. And we've got to do something that they're not expecting."

[DigoDragon]

"So, um... I can speak mouse now!" she hurriedly adds, hoping it explains enough.

Cherub nods with a squeak.


"Great!" Midnight practically beams at Rita.

"It's not like we ever really got a chance to try them. And we've got to do something that they're not expecting."

Rita gives Midnight a light kiss on the cheek. "In case I don't see you before then, I'll be waiting at the fountains the evening of the festival. Just don't keep a mare waiting too long."

She returns to her work, serving food and drinks to the few patrons still around for a late dinner.

[McNum]

Beryl, being one of those who's having a late dinner orders some food. But she does smile a bit at how cute Midnight and Rita are being.

"Anyway, what did I miss? Other than dinner, I mean." she adds.

[DigoDragon]

September 27 (Tuesday)

At the end of the day, everyone is caught up on the evening events and the time for sleep falls upon the party. It's a fairly quiet night, even though there's a giant carnivorous spider occupying the room alongside you. The next morning the sun rises up behind a cloudy sky to beam its light upon a foggy city. Ponies awaken once again and begin the day anew. You can smell breakfast wafting from the kitchen below.

You have a full agenda this day; Ace would need to be retrieved if he is to travel with you. The knights and Madam Epee may have answers to your questions. And there is the matter of which direction your travels should take you.

[Fable Wright]

Spirit stretches as he rises from his meditative pose collapsed over the couch, surprised that he was the first one up. He supposed the others had just stayed up later than expected, though that might make talking to Frostbite a bit more difficult. Sighing, he walked over to Shiela, renewing the warmth from Druidcraft that had faded over the course of the night, before getting something of an idea.

Heading downstairs, he sighed under the lightness of his wallet. One of these days, the Paladins would foot the bill. Today was not that day. Nevertheless, in the pale pre-dawn light, he ordered breakfast for five complete with eggs, coffee, hashbrowns, beet sausages, hay-bacon and biscuits. Four regular meals for the party members who would eat, plus one to split amongst whoever was hungriest. Was a shame Ace wasn't staying with them, but that did lighten the bill a little bit. Enough to compensate for the tip, at least.

Still, he mused as he climbed the stairs, there are worse ways to start a conversation than with a hearty breakfast in bed. Perhaps it would make this whole conversation easier. Or perhaps not. Regardless, he lay out the tray and hot pile of plates in the middle of the room just as the first rays of dawn began to peek in through the windows, and settled down to watch. Soon the smell of food someone else paid for would fill the room, ponies would wake, and plans would be hatched. Hopefully, today would be a good day.

[One Tin Soldier]

Midnight, for once, is one of the first up this morning. He approaches Spirit's table, eyeing the food hungrily.

"Well, it looks like we won't be walking on an empty stomach, at least."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit gestures to the table. "Feel free to help yourself! And I think 'walking' would be the wrong word to describe today. 'Boating' would probably be better, really, once we leave town."

[Jurai]

Crossguard trots up to the bar, and orders her usual breakfast, then joins the group. "We also need to make a report to Dame Epee."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit stares blankly as Crossguard leaves the room, buys her own breakfast, and comes back up the stairs. Now that was a snub if he'd ever seen one. And a waste of his money besides. Arathea the Oathbreaker may have sworn her life to a Mare-ilith demon, performed banditry, and been an incorrigible stallionizer, but at least she politely apologized and reimbursed Spirit when breakfast wasn't to her liking. 'Honorable Knights of the Sun' pfeh. "Yes." He says coolly, "Hence 'after we leave town'. There are a couple of things on the agenda before we head out, and your Paladin business is one of them. We also need to charter a ship, get spell-scribing materials, buy rations, arrange contacts in Arendale, procure books and training manuals, learn a bit about secondary markets, and check over our gold in the event of an unexpected windfall. Turns out, rare or uncommon coins that are usually buried or lost somewhere can be worth a fair amount of money, and would be a good way to carry lots of cash quite non-obviously for Brotherhood agents."

He shakes his head. "I'm getting off topic. Yes, there's a lot to do this morning. We're making a list. Paladin business is on it. Anything else to add?"

[Jurai]

Spirit stares blankly as Crossguard leaves the room, buys her own breakfast, and comes back up the stairs. Now that was a snub if he'd ever seen one. And a waste of his money besides. Arathea the Oathbreaker may have sworn her life to a Mare-ilith demon, performed banditry, and been an incorrigible stallionizer, but at least she politely apologized and reimbursed Spirit when breakfast wasn't to her liking. 'Honorable Knights of the Sun' pfeh. "Yes." He says coolly, "Hence 'after we leave town'. There are a couple of things on the agenda before we head out, and your Paladin business is one of them. We also need to charter a ship, get spell-scribing materials, buy rations, arrange contacts in Arendale, procure books and training manuals, learn a bit about secondary markets, and check over our gold in the event of an unexpected windfall. Turns out, rare or uncommon coins that are usually buried or lost somewhere can be worth a fair amount of money, and would be a good way to carry lots of cash quite non-obviously for Brotherhood agents."

He shakes his head. "I'm getting off topic. Yes, there's a lot to do this morning. We're making a list. Paladin business is on it. Anything else to add?"

Crossguard gives Spirit several gold. "I apologize. 'Twas not my intent to snub. I'm not exactly a morning mare." She sets her meal with the rest of it, and plates some for him. "I'd say that you and Frostbite should get Ace, while Beryl and I go report to the paladins. We can meet back up at the docks."

[McNum]

As Beryl wakes up, she first looks at her hooves for a moment. No glowing. Good. That would get old if she was glowing like that every day. She joins the others at the table in the room for breakfast.

*yawn* "Sorry, good morning everypony." she starts. "It's going to be a busy day today, isn't it? I do hope Dame Epee can tell us something useful, and we need a boat. Any idea what chartering one of those costs?" As Beryl says that, she looks at her breakfast and realizes something... "Come to think of it, who do I owe for this, and how much?"

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frost joins the others for food, though again he seems to be quiet. It doesn't look like he slept too well.

"Thanks for breakfast," he says to Spirit.

[Fable Wright]

Crossguard gives Spirit several gold. "I apologize. 'Twas not my intent to snub. I'm not exactly a morning mare." She sets her meal with the rest of it, and plates some for him. "I'd say that you and Frostbite should get Ace, while Beryl and I go report to the paladins. We can meet back up at the docks."

Spirit accepts the gold and warms up slightly, before shaking his head and gently pushing the plate away from himself. "No, thank you, I ate before you woke."


*yawn* "Sorry, good morning everypony." she starts. "It's going to be a busy day today, isn't it? I do hope Dame Epee can tell us something useful, and we need a boat. Any idea what chartering one of those costs?" As Beryl says that, she looks at her breakfast and realizes something... "Come to think of it, who do I owe for this, and how much?"

"I've been handling costs the last few days. If you wish to pay me back, feel free to pick up the tab once in a while." He shrugs. "Regardless, the cost of the boat is going to depend on where we visit, and how swiftly it travels. For that, we'll need a route. I strongly suggest we swing by Nabru for a few hours before hitting Arendale, to meet with the sage Azurah. She's one of the adventuring band who defeated Valiance when he attempted his lichdom ritual, gathers knowledge that not even a master diviner can find, and may be instrumental in actually getting some answers on what's going on. Nabru is far closer to Basuto than Arendale, and hitting there now should save us time, money, and a fair bit of struggle or frustration.

"However, we do have some business to take care of before that. Namely, getting a place to stay or ponies to meet in Arendale, gathering traveling supplies, and the report to Dame Epee. I suggest that Midnight bother Rita about good taverns and ponies in Arendale, you two meet with the Paladins, and that you give me a list of anything that you think need be bought before we travel so that I could add them to the shopping list. Frostbite doesn't look too well, so I'd recommend he be free to stay here and rest, or tag along with whoever he wishes should he feel better after breakfast."


Frost joins the others for food, though again he seems to be quiet. It doesn't look like he slept too well.

"Thanks for breakfast," he says to Spirit.

Spirit nods back and slides him a plate of hash browns. Nothing like morning potatoes to take the edge off a rough night.

[McNum]

"Oh, thank you Spirit." Beryl begins. "I'll repay it for sure." She thinks for a second "If the boat turns out to be expensive, remember that I still have a 100 Gold patch on this robe of mine. Feel free to use some of that to barter with if you need, I'll pay when we get back together."

"Anyway, there's one place I really want to go in Arendale when we arrive, and that's the Arendale Dusk Temple. I was told in that dream of mine to go there to 'continue my quest' or something, so I want to know what that meant." She looks to Midnight "It would probably be good if Midnight went with me so I don't do anything stupid in there. I don't know any of the Dusk customs or rituals, and I don't want to start off on the wrong hoof with them. I mean, I am going to claim to be an ancient hero reborn. That's clearly enough crazy as-is."

She begins looking over the fine spread of breakfast, picking something she'd like. She then turns to Frostbite.

"And don't worry Frost, I'm sure whoever is there can understand me already having a hero job to do, maybe I can even get them to help, or at least tell me about those mines."

As she is chewing, she suddenly gets one of those ideas. "Okay, crazy thought... you think we could just buy them free?"

[Jurai]

"I do not know how they are, but if they take slaves, they are likely as not to release them for money."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit shakes his head. "They continue to operate by maintaining a front of not being slavers. I don't think they'll sell anyone, but it may be worth a shot if infiltration looks iffy."

[McNum]

"If they try not to look like slavers to the outside, they're absolutely going to hate me in a few hours." Beryl muses. "Because of course this will have to come up at the Paladin meeting. And I plan to be really blunt about it, too. Maybe it'll give us an edge against them, but honestly, making life difficult for slavers is its own reward." she says with a slight smirk.

[Beacon of Chaos]

Spirit nods back and slides him a plate of hash browns. Nothing like morning potatoes to take the edge off a rough night.
Frost accepts and immediately tucks in.


She begins looking over the fine spread of breakfast, picking something she'd like. She then turns to Frostbite.

"And don't worry Frost, I'm sure whoever is there can understand me already having a hero job to do, maybe I can even get them to help, or at least tell me about those mines."
"A large group of paladins would certainly help," he agrees.


As she is chewing, she suddenly gets one of those ideas. "Okay, crazy thought... you think we could just buy them free?"
"Seriously? Beryl, even if that would work, we'd be buying slaves. I refuse to give those kinds of ponies money! Think of the evil they'd do with it."

[McNum]

Frost accepts and immediately tucks in.

"A large group of paladins would certainly help," he agrees.

"Seriously? Beryl, even if that would work, we'd be buying slaves. I refuse to give those kinds of ponies money! Think of the evil they'd do with it."
"Yeah, you're right. I just didn't think of them as slaves... but I suppose the slavers would. I'm just wondering if there's a peaceful way out, but I don't see many. Marching up there with enough force backing us up is probably the only real peaceful way they'd understand. So, how scary CAN we be? I mean we're traveling with a giant spider. That's a start. Or is there something more subtle we can threaten?"

Beryl sighs.

"We really need to know more about those mines..."

[Fable Wright]

"So, how scary CAN we be? I mean we're traveling with a giant spider. That's a start. Or is there something more subtle we can threaten?"

Spirit just blinks. "How long am I allowed to haunt them, and how many disappearances am I allowed to cause? Instilling mortal terror is a Druidic specialty."

[McNum]

Spirit just blinks. "How long am I allowed to haunt them, and how many disappearances am I allowed to cause? Instilling mortal terror is a Druidic specialty."
"Um..." Beryl slowly begins to realize what she just suggested. "Do you mean disappear as in dead or alive? Because if alive... then we just need two ponies to disappear, the two we're looking for. But if dead, we need something else." Beryl feels like there's an idea here somewhere. "If we could make it look like the mine is haunted... You scare them, and we show up telling them that the two ponies they got from the Brotherhood was involved in a dangerous curse and we need to take them with us before it spreads. They might just give them to us to stop it. We'd even make the Brotherhood look bad for selling them cursed slaves."

*AHEM!*

"...of course scaring ponies, even if they deserve it, like that is not a very Paladin thing to do, is it?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit shrugs. "Terror deals with the worst of the worst without injuring any. There's a reason Druids learn to use it, and learn to fight it. I know little of Paladin ways, but we view it as a tool like any other."

[Jurai]

"Um..." Beryl slowly begins to realize what she just suggested. "Do you mean disappear as in dead or alive? Because if alive... then we just need two ponies to disappear, the two we're looking for. But if dead, we need something else." Beryl feels like there's an idea here somewhere. "If we could make it look like the mine is haunted... You scare them, and we show up telling them that the two ponies they got from the Brotherhood was involved in a dangerous curse and we need to take them with us before it spreads. They might just give them to us to stop it. We'd even make the Brotherhood look bad for selling them cursed slaves."

*AHEM!*

"...of course scaring ponies, even if they deserve it, like that is not a very Paladin thing to do, is it?"

"Giving ponies nightmares is not a very paladin thing to do, Beryl. Unless those ponies are opposed to us." Crossguard says. "But then, that's just simple tactics."

[McNum]

"Giving ponies nightmares is not a very paladin thing to do, Beryl. Unless those ponies are opposed to us." Crossguard says. "But then, that's just simple tactics."
"Yeah, I just had my inner voice... complain about the idea. It just doesn't seem smart to start a fight if we can avoid one by being scary." Beryl stops to think. "...maybe we're getting ahead of ourselves. We really do need to find out more about those mines before we know if we want to frighten them like this."

"We should make that an item on our plan: 'Ask about the salt mines.' Here. At the Paladin meeting. In Arendale. In Tanari. And if we're visiting Azurah, ask her, too. If she's a sage, maybe she can see it with magic."

Beryl knows this will be a touchy subject, but she's never been one to dance around those.

"We might as well get that one on the table now. Do we visit Azurah? She's a sage, she may know a lot of useful things about the Brotherhood, and getting on her good side could be useful in the future." Beryl pauses for a breath "But it is also a detour. We know where Frost's parents are right now. Getting them free is urgent. Do we have the time?"

[DigoDragon]

[Meanwhile, at the temple of the Knights of the Sun~]
The page trotted as quick as he could with the bucket of water held by his teeth. His little hooves echoed loudly in the spacious hallway. Clippity-clop-clippity-clop. He finally made it to the bedroom where half a dozen other ponies were crowding around the patient. The page was spilling drops around, but managed to move his way around everyone over to High Priest Flare Star. He patted the colt page on the back.

"Good job my child."

"Oh come on, Flare," Epee whined. "I got into a scuffle, not curb-stomped by some dragon."

"The 'scuffle' broke your wing, Lady Silverhilt," Flare countered.

Epee grinned. "Yeah, but you should have seen what I did to the bastard's jaw. Worth it."

Flare Star tightened the bandages around Epee's wing, causing Epee to to let out an 'Ow ow ow ow ow ow!' chant under her breath. He then took the water and washed her many bruises and cuts over her body. "So... these wounds were done to you by an opposing pegasus swordsman?"

"Earth pony actually," Epee replied.

"But... you can fly. Did this earth pony have some method of flight as well?"

Epee shook her head. "Nope, just had this really good opening move that starts with a rock..."


[Meanwhile, at the Circle of the Sun mage college]
"I still think you should have awoken me," Triss complained as she hoofed Ace a hammer.

"Oh dear Solaria, not this again," Ivy growled. "Give it a rest, would ya?"

Triss stomped a hoof. "But I could have set them on fire!"

"Like you did breakfast?" Ace snarked as he hammed in the final nail. His hooves dropped the hammer slowly with the task complete. He pushed the door closed. It grinds a bit against the frame, but the front door was now capable of being opened and (more importantly) locked. He looks over at the red-colored mare. "Seriously, Triss, we'd get our collective plots wiped across the floor."

"I don't wanna be wiped," Otto adds meekly.

"What about your adventurer friends, Ace?" Triss countered. "They could have beat up the Brotherhood."

"Probably, but we might be collateral," Ivy said, siding with Ace.

Triss folds her fore-hooves together and made a scrunch-face. "Fiiiiine. Next time an adventuring party comes by, I'm joining them for a turn. And it's going to be filled with burning enemies and flames and everything!" The thought of it made Triss' wings quiver with delight.

"Okayyy, less creepy topic time," Ivy interrupted. "Otto, any messages from Master Librarian?"

The crystal colt shook his head. "No, the hat was empty this morning. She usually tells us where she goes though. Why didn't she leave us a note this time? And why are so many other students gone too?"

Ivy tapped a hoof on her chin. "Well, just between us, she seems to have been a lot more angry since the Brotherhood showed up a few days ago. And then, when Ace's friends go off to a graveyard in the next town to fight the Brotherhood?"

"She skedaddles without so much as a word," Triss finished.

"Ivy, are you pondering, what I'm pondering?" Ace asked.

"Crystal Orb and Chill?"

Ace paused a moment to give the filly an incredulous look. "Noooo, we should go into the private library upstairs and do a little research on graveyards."

"Graveyards?" Triss asked. "Why the hell for?"

"Diviner's intuition..."


[Meanwhile, at the city docks]
"Think it'll rain?" the earth pony guard asked his partner.

The unicorn flexed his left hind-leg. "Trick knee says no."

"That's good."

They continue their patrol.

[One Tin Soldier]

"If they try not to look like slavers to the outside, they're absolutely going to hate me in a few hours." Beryl muses. "Because of course this will have to come up at the Paladin meeting. And I plan to be really blunt about it, too. Maybe it'll give us an edge against them, but honestly, making life difficult for slavers is its own reward." she says with a slight smirk.


"Yeah, I just had my inner voice... complain about the idea. It just doesn't seem smart to start a fight if we can avoid one by being scary." Beryl stops to think. "...maybe we're getting ahead of ourselves. We really do need to find out more about those mines before we know if we want to frighten them like this."

"We should make that an item on our plan: 'Ask about the salt mines.' Here. At the Paladin meeting. In Arendale. In Tanari. And if we're visiting Azurah, ask her, too. If she's a sage, maybe she can see it with magic."

Beryl knows this will be a touchy subject, but she's never been one to dance around those.

"We might as well get that one on the table now. Do we visit Azurah? She's a sage, she may know a lot of useful things about the Brotherhood, and getting on her good side could be useful in the future." Beryl pauses for a breath "But it is also a detour. We know where Frost's parents are right now. Getting them free is urgent. Do we have the time?"

"I don't think we do," Midnight says. "Like you said, freeing them is urgent. For all we know, they're already trying to move them. And who knows if we'll be able to track them down again afterwards. Everything else can wait until we get them free."

He finishes off his mug of coffee. "Oh, and for what it's worth, I am on board with plan 'Scare The Feathers Off Of The Brotherhood.'"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit sighs. "From what you told me, the Brotherhood has washed their hands of Frostbite's parents. They sold them off to make a quick buck off a third party, the last stop for any illicit hostage without a rich family. Time is NOT of the essence. Rescuing them near the top of the priority list, yes, but it's not so urgent that we're skipping an social call with Dame Epee, or a blind visit to the Temple of the Dusk in Arendale as soon as we arrive, is it?" He looks pointedly at Crossguard, Beryl, and Midnight.

"We save time over the next week if we visit Nabru now. We get information on the Brotherhood and Valiance from the single most active bulwark of defense against them. We get information the most powerful diviner in the Fetloch region does not have. We may very well find out where we can actually bring the fight the Brotherhood. It's the single best use of our time that I'm aware of. I will not pass on this chance."

[McNum]

Beryl looks a little strained, as if she's trying hard to think about her words. This is not quite the kind of conversation she feels natural in.

"My dad had a saying when things got really busy in the kitchen. 'Hurry, but don't rush.' I think it meant something like doing it right as fast as you can, but not so fast to have to redo it. I'm going to ask about the mines at both the meeting with Dame Epee and the blind call at the Dusk Temple. Because we need to know more. But there's one really big thing we don't know that would make getting Frostbite's parents released a whole lot easier." Beryl looks around the table. "Does anypony here know the names of Frost's parents? Do we know what they look like, or their cutie marks? And... is that something a powerful diviner could figure out for us if we asked? If we're taking the detour to Azurah, we need to ask her that. I'm sure she, if she really hates the Brotherhood as much as Spirit thinks, won't mind helping two ponies who're in trouble because of them."

Beryl pours something to drink and takes a sip.

"I would love to pull an Ace Rescue style thing again and just run in with bears and noise and make like a hero, I really would. That was amazing. I just... don't know if we have enough to go on to do even that yet. I just want to hurry and help Frost with finding his parents. Or his parents in finding him. If I knew how to do that, I'd be out there doing it right now! But I don't... not yet."

Beryl makes a frustrated groan. "...if going to Azurah can help us find out exactly which two ponies we're looking for, it would be a good idea to go there, I think. I don't really want to, I want to kick some flank and save the day, but I don't know whose flanks to kick or whose day to save."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit once again blinks, like Beryl said something completely alien to him. "His dad bled in the temple. The smell was all over the first room. How could you not recognize him? It was like a snake in a flooded copper mine. I don't think I could ever forget what he smelled like. Why would you need face, name, or cutie mark when you have that?"

[McNum]

Spirit once again blinks, like Beryl said something completely alien to him. "His dad bled in the temple. The smell was all over the first room. How could you not recognize him? It was like a snake in a flooded copper mine. I don't think I could ever forget what he smelled like. Why would you need face, name, or cutie mark when you have that?"
"Because most ponies can't smell things like that. That's why we all have names instead of calling each other by our smells. I guess I'd be 'smells of flour and sweat' these days, or something like that if we did." She quickly adds "...don't answer what I smell like, by the way, I have had way too few showers and way too much violence the last few days to want to know."

Beryl takes a moment to think, she feels like she's about to explain something anypony would know... but she did promise Spirit that she'd help with things like this...

"Names have power, Spirit. By calling something or somepony by its name, everypony who shares that knowledge knows and understands what everypony else talks about. You can't demand that 'blood that smells of copper and snakes' be released, but if you have their pony name, you can do that, maybe even get it in writing from an authority pony, like our friendly neighborhood Paladins or somepony like that. That's why we need names. So everypony else knows who we're talking about. We call them 'Frostbite's parents' right now. That means only something to those who knows he's their son. The Brotherhood called them 'Dragonblooded Ponies' which is useless unless that is something they kept track of at the mine."

"That's why name, looks, and cutie marks could be a huge help. Because that's what everypony else uses to tell who's who."

[Fable Wright]

"Because most ponies can't smell things like that. That's why we all have names instead of calling each other by our smells. I guess I'd be 'smells of flour and sweat' these days, or something like that if we did." She quickly adds "...don't answer what I smell like, by the way, I have had way too few showers and way too much violence the last few days to want to know."

Spirit snorts. "The things you surround yourself with are hardly a good way to describe one's smell, unless you use it to mask yourself. You'd be 'warm-blooded northerner with odd scent of dew' in these lands, though I'd be more specific up north."


"That's why name, looks, and cutie marks could be a huge help. Because that's what everypony else uses to tell who's who."

Once again, he gives a confused blink. "You've completely missed that which gives names power. Also the downsides of using names, how much you can accomplish while avoiding names, and how enemies can use names against us. If the Brotherhood sold Frostbite's parents off with different names to throw us off the trail, how much use would having them be? What would happen if they swapped their names with other prisoners' at the time of the sale? We should seek not names, but the defining physical aspects of the ponies. And we already have that from one of them."

[McNum]

"Yes, they could have sold them with fake names. That's why we need their cutie marks, too. You'd need some really crazy magic to even try changing one of those in any permanent way. Add coat and mane colors to that and you have a pretty safe way to know who a pony is. Like, I'm Beryl, a pink Crystal Pony with a red mane and tail. My a cutie mark has a music note inside a shield. Ask about that anywhere near my home bakery and they'll know me. Asking about the pony who oddly smells of dew and they'll just be confused. If you're going to ask about somepony, you need to ask in the same... language as everypony else."

Beryl pauses, with a look of confusion and mild frustration.

"You are right in we need something physical, and you have one thing you can use. But it's not something anypony who isn't a shaman can use to find them with. We need something a non-shaman is able to use."

She shakes her head and sighs.

"It's not just me being stupid here, right? We don't know anything about the mines other than the name, we don't know anything about Frost's parents other than how one of them smells to a shaman and we're trying to find out what to do next, right?" She taps the side of her head in a slow way, as if she's massaging her mind to think. "...how about we find some of these things out? Where the mines are, how we can get ponies released from there, who these ponies are, and how we plan to get that all to work. That's what we need, isn't it?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit shrugs. "So we are in agreement then. Today, we stop by Nabru to meet Azurah. I will grab Ace, do some shopping, and ask about what I can. Beryl and Crossguard will meet with the Paladins and try to get some information while we're over there. Midnight will ask Rita about a place to stay in Arendale, about the mines if he can, and charter a ship while we're out. Shall we meet at the port in, say, three hours?"

[One Tin Soldier]

Spirit shrugs. "So we are in agreement then. Today, we stop by Nabru to meet Azurah. I will grab Ace, do some shopping, and ask about what I can. Beryl and Crossguard will meet with the Paladins and try to get some information while we're over there. Midnight will ask Rita about a place to stay in Arendale, about the mines if he can, and charter a ship while we're out. Shall we meet at the port in, say, three hours?"

"Looks like it," Midnight says, though sounds disappointed that they couldn't get right to saving Frost's parents. "She also said she had a contact that could get us into the mines, disguised as criminals. I'll at least find out how to contact him, if that's what we want to do to get in there."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Does anypony here know the names of Frost's parents? Do we know what they look like, or their cutie marks?"
Frost pulls out the faded picture he took from Silver Amulet all those weeks ago. It's sepia toned and a little frayed, but it's enough to tell what the two ponies look like.


"I just... don't know if we have enough to go on to do even that yet."
"I have a location. That's all I need."


Beryl makes a frustrated groan. "...if going to Azurah can help us find out exactly which two ponies we're looking for, it would be a good idea to go there, I think. I don't really want to, I want to kick some flank and save the day, but I don't know whose flanks to kick or whose day to save."
"Then go. I'll meet you in Arendale."


Spirit once again blinks, like Beryl said something completely alien to him. "His dad bled in the temple. The smell was all over the first room. How could you not recognize him? It was like a snake in a flooded copper mine. I don't think I could ever forget what he smelled like."
Frost's face can only be called a grimmace at this point. He grabs the photo back and makes his way to the door without another word.

[DigoDragon]

Frost's face can only be called a grimmace at this point. He grabs the photo back and makes his way to the door without another word.

"Meet them in Arendale, huh?" Cherub says telepathically. "Are you sure about this? I mean, I still stand by my theory that this is some kind of trap. At the very least let's not do this alone."

[Jurai]

Crossguard trots after Frostbite. "Frost, we must speak. Potentially at length." She says.

[One Tin Soldier]

Midnight stands up. "If we know what they look like, then that changes everything! We don't need to visit Azurah, we can just go directly to the mine!"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit blinks again. "So, you've got a monochrome drawing of two healthy, happy ponies not displaying a clear view of their cutie marks when you're looking for two ponies at least 10 years older, their faces worn by the stress of a lost child and their body further degraded by the conditions of being a kidnapping victim. If you can actually find them based off the photograph alone, I'll have to admit, your senses are far keener than mine."

[McNum]

Beryl didn't quite expect Frost to get up like that, but she feels like she should have expected it. "Now I feel bad... and a little stupid." Beryl gets up from the table. "Thanks for breakfast, Spirit. Seeing that picture actually gave me an idea, maybe we can find out their names right here. They were looking for Frost, right? And who would you ask if they've seen somepony in this town?"

Beryl moves to follow Frost and Cross.

"...I just hope the Knights of the Sun keep a record of who visits them. They seem like the kind of group who would."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Meet them in Arendale, huh?" Cherub says telepathically. "Are you sure about this? I mean, I still stand by my theory that this is some kind of trap. At the very least let's not do this alone."
I can't, after all this searching, find out where my parents are and then just... go in the opposite direction! Regardless of what this Azurah might know.


Crossguard trots after Frostbite. "Frost, we must speak. Potentially at length." She says.
An annoyed grunt is what Crossguard receives in response.


Spirit blinks again. "So, you've got a monochrome drawing of two healthy, happy ponies not displaying a clear view of their cutie marks when you're looking for two ponies at least 10 years older, their faces worn by the stress of a lost child and their body further degraded by the conditions of being a kidnapping victim. If you can actually find them based off the photograph alone, I'll have to admit, your senses are far keener than mine."
Another annoyed grunt, slightly louder.

[McNum]

Beryl walks up to Frost, and says in a slightly sweeter voice than normal.

"Frost, no matter what you choose, you'll have me watching your back. Nopony, and I mean absolutely nopony, hurts the family of my friends. We'll find them and we'll free them. And we'll do it together. Because that's what friends are for, you know? We may have different ideas on how to do it, but we will pull this off. We have to!"

"Personally, I want to get Crossguard's boss angry about it." she says with a mischievous smile, then glances at Crossguard after saying that.

[Jurai]

Crossguard nods in agreement. "No reason to pick a fight we can't win, Frostbite. With reinforcements, and maybe the pressure of having paladins investigate, they'll release your parents."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frost stops at the doorway, his head hung low.

"...Thank you. I just..."

He slumps down onto the floor. "I feel like... I feel like I'm not doing enough! I should be there! Going where I need to! Maybe investigating? Maybe just using my magic to blast through? I just..." He sits up, his eyes watering slightly. "I'm angry! And scared! And... and... I..."

He breathes a deep sigh and wipes his eyes. "I don't know. My life has changed so much in such a short time. It's so... overwhelming."

[Jurai]

Frost stops at the doorway, his head hung low.

"...Thank you. I just..."

He slumps down onto the floor. "I feel like... I feel like I'm not doing enough! I should be there! Going where I need to! Maybe investigating? Maybe just using my magic to blast through? I just..." He sits up, his eyes watering slightly. "I'm angry! And scared! And... and... I..."

He breathes a deep sigh and wipes his eyes. "I don't know. My life has changed so much in such a short time. It's so... overwhelming."

Crossguard hugs Frost. "It is all right. You have my steel, Frostbite."

[McNum]

Frost stops at the doorway, his head hung low.

"...Thank you. I just..."

He slumps down onto the floor. "I feel like... I feel like I'm not doing enough! I should be there! Going where I need to! Maybe investigating? Maybe just using my magic to blast through? I just..." He sits up, his eyes watering slightly. "I'm angry! And scared! And... and... I..."

He breathes a deep sigh and wipes his eyes. "I don't know. My life has changed so much in such a short time. It's so... overwhelming."

Crossguard hugs Frost. "It is all right. You have my steel, Frostbite."
"Yeah, this last week has been... a lot to take in. It's been crazy." Beryl agrees as she sits down on the floor next to Frost.

"It's okay to be angry and scared. Everypony gets angry or scared sometimes. It's fine as long as you don't let your rage or fear control you." Beryl adds in a sympathetic tone, then continues in a more upbeat encouraging tone "As for doing something, remember how we learned where your parents are? YOU did that. You kept a cool head in a scary moment and look what it got you! You rocked last night!" Beryl gives Frost an enthusiastic pat on the back as she says that.

"We need to investigate what the Tanari Salt Mines really are, and we need everything we can get on who your parents are. Then we can move out and get them free, hopefully peacefully, but if we need to, the 'blasting through with magic' idea works for me, too."

[One Tin Soldier]

"And I'm up for anything, as long as we get your parents to you," Midnight says. "Sneaking, blasting, fighting. Talking. I'm going to help you, whatever it takes." He glances out the window, noting the position of the sun. "Whatever that is, though, we need to get started on it soon. The more time we spend here, the further the Brotherhood can get ahead of us."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Crossguard hugs Frost. "It is all right. You have my steel, Frostbite."

"Yeah, this last week has been... a lot to take in. It's been crazy." Beryl agrees as she sits down on the floor next to Frost.

"It's okay to be angry and scared. Everypony gets angry or scared sometimes. It's fine as long as you don't let your rage or fear control you." Beryl adds in a sympathetic tone, then continues in a more upbeat encouraging tone "As for doing something, remember how we learned where your parents are? YOU did that. You kept a cool head in a scary moment and look what it got you! You rocked last night!" Beryl gives Frost an enthusiastic pat on the back as she says that.

"We need to investigate what the Tanari Salt Mines really are, and we need everything we can get on who your parents are. Then we can move out and get them free, hopefully peacefully, but if we need to, the 'blasting through with magic' idea works for me, too."

"And I'm up for anything, as long as we get your parents to you," Midnight says. "Sneaking, blasting, fighting. Talking. I'm going to help you, whatever it takes."
Frost smiles and nods. He seems too choked up to say anything, but he definitely seems to appreciate the kind words and hugs.


He glances out the window, noting the position of the sun. "Whatever that is, though, we need to get started on it soon. The more time we spend here, the further the Brotherhood can get ahead of us."
Frost stands up again. His eyes are still a little red. "Alright then."

[McNum]

Beryl smiles at Frost. "Yeah. We'll get this done, together."

She moves towards her bed to begin putting on her armor. "But Midnight is right. We do need to get moving. The sooner we get going, the sooner we can really ruin the day of some of the bad guys." after a short pause to put on the underarmor she continues "Speaking of that... Spirit, can we borrow that journal for the Paladin meeting? I bet they'll be really interested in copying the last few pages in that."

"We do need to find out if we're going to visit Azurah. The more we know, the easier it gets to find Frost's parents, not to mention stopping what the brotherhood is up to. But I'm going to follow Frost on this."

[One Tin Soldier]

"I'm going to go find Rita, find out how to contact this guy who can get us into the prison."

[DigoDragon]

Time: 9:00 am
Location: Choose your poison.


Those looking for Rita--
Rita can be found downstairs. She's by herself at a table, chewing on breakfast and writing in a journal. She seems to be in a pleasant mood and not "on the clock" with her service job right now.


Those looking for Epee--
Epee can be found at the paladin temple. She is sitting on the steps in front of the entrance, talking with two young squires about proper stance when wielding a sword. Her midsection is bandaged up, especially her left wing, which you can clearly see some faded red staining through the dressing. She also has a number of cuts all over her body. She has the appearance of a roughed alley cat.


Those looking for Ace--
Ace can be found at the college. The front door appears to have been repaired, and inside the main room Ace is there with Ivy and two other students. They appear to have a study group going on the subject of major fetloch graveyards.

Those looking for a boat--
At the docks, there are a few places one can go and book passage anywhere along the Ponaria seaboard. What you pay is what you get of course, where a fast no-expense-spared luxury ship will pamper you during voyage (travel time is~ 3 hours), to the very economy option of being brought on as "cargo" for a simple barge that ferries goods back and forth along the coastline (travel time is~ 8 hours). The middle ground appears to be a small sailing ship that can reach Nabru in about 4 hours.

For reference, hoofing it by land takes 6 hours to reach Nabru.

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frost goes to the college to see Ace and Ivy, wanting to check up on them after yesterday's encounter with the brotherhood ponies. "Hi Ace, hi Ivy. Did it stay quiet around here last night?"

[Jurai]

Crossguard trots up and salutes. "Greetings, Dame Epee, squires. Our sojourn to Koldstone went well."

[McNum]

Those looking for Epee--
Epee can be found at the paladin temple. She is sitting on the steps in front of the entrance, talking with two young squires about proper stance when wielding a sword. Her midsection is bandaged up, especially her left wing, which you can clearly see some faded red staining through the dressing. She also has a number of cuts all over her body. She has the appearance of a roughed alley cat.


Crossguard trots up and salutes. "Greetings, Dame Epee, squires. Our sojourn to Koldstone went well."
Beryl follows Crossguard and gives a respectful nod as Crossguard salutes. She's pretty sure she's not supposed to salute when she's not a member of this particular club.

She then notices the injuries Dame Epee has. "Good morning everypony. Um, are you okay Dame Epee?"

In the back of her mind, Beryl compares the look of the cuts she can immediately see to the ones Spirit got when fighting the beastly captain back in Shornhoof.

[DigoDragon]

Frost goes to the college to see Ace and Ivy, wanting to check up on them after yesterday's encounter with the brotherhood ponies. "Hi Ace, hi Ivy. Did it stay quiet around here last night?"

"Hey Frost. Yeah, nothing else happened during the night," Ace answers. "We got the door fixed and are just doing a little research. Oh, you probably haven't met Triss and Otto." He points to the red pegasus mare and then the blueish crystal pony colt. The colt shyly waves.

The pegasus, however, seems to have taken notice of the name 'Frost'. She lights miniature flame on her hoof with magic and grins at Frost like she wanted to show off some tricks. Probably involving fire.

Ivy gives Triss a disapproving look.



Crossguard trots up and salutes. "Greetings, Dame Epee, squires. Our sojourn to Koldstone went well."

Beryl follows Crossguard and gives a respectful nod as Crossguard salutes. She's pretty sure she's not supposed to salute when she's not a member of this particular club.

She then notices the injuries Dame Epee has. "Good morning everypony. Um, are you okay Dame Epee?"

"Ah, Dame Crossguard, Dame Beryl! I am happy to hear that your expedition is a success." Epee dismisses the squires. She slowly gets up. "I see you're no worse for wear. I'm alright, Beryl. Some crazed earth pony picked a fight with me on my trip back and broke my wing. Come, tell me of your adventure first. I'm sure it was much more interesting."


In the back of her mind, Beryl compares the look of the cuts she can immediately see to the ones Spirit got when fighting the beastly captain back in Shornhoof.
[roll0]
Not the same. Epee's injuries are more consistent with shortsword cuts.

[McNum]

"Ah, Dame Crossguard, Dame Beryl! I am happy to hear that your expedition is a success." Epee dismisses the squires. She slowly gets up. "I see you're no worse for wear. I'm alright, Beryl. Some crazed earth pony picked a fight with me on my trip back and broke my wing. Come, tell me of your adventure first. I'm sure it was much more interesting."
Beryl isn't quite sure how to react... "Oh, it was very interesting. Let's see... Koldstone still exists because of us, I learned something crazy about why I can do Paladin things which caused me to literally glow for half a day, we have something your people will want a copy of, and we need help busting some slavers because they took some ponies dear to one of us."

Beryl pauses just to see if Epee reacts.

"...but I think the details will have to wait until we're not out in public. Some names shouldn't be said out here."

[Jurai]

Crossguard nods in agreement. "We should indeed retire to private chambers, Dame Epee."

[DigoDragon]

Beryl isn't quite sure how to react... "Oh, it was very interesting. Let's see... Koldstone still exists because of us, I learned something crazy about why I can do Paladin things which caused me to literally glow for half a day, we have something your people will want a copy of, and we need help busting some slavers because they took some ponies dear to one of us."

Beryl pauses just to see if Epee reacts.

Epee's eyebrows and ears are rise to attention on the word 'slavers'.



"...but I think the details will have to wait until we're not out in public. Some names shouldn't be said out here."

Crossguard nods in agreement. "We should indeed retire to private chambers, Dame Epee."

"Sure, I'll take you to my chambers." Epee leads the way into the building and to the left. After passing several rooms and making one right turn she shuffles you into a small spare bedroom. There's just a straw-lined bed, a dresser, a stool, and a rack which holds armor and a sword.

Epee sits down on the bed. "Okay, so what was this about you glowing for half a day and slavers?"

[McNum]

Epee's eyebrows and ears are rise to attention on the word 'slavers'.

"Sure, I'll take you to my chambers." Epee leads the way into the building and to the left. After passing several rooms and making one right turn she shuffles you into a small spare bedroom. There's just a straw-lined bed, a dresser, a stool, and a rack which holds armor and a sword.

Epee sits down on the bed. "Okay, so what was this about you glowing for half a day and slavers?"
Beryl follows Epee into the room. Which, to be honest, looks exactly like what Beryl expected a Paladin's room would look like.

"Okay... You probably already guessed, but we had some trouble with a certain Brotherhood. Those reckless jerks almost killed everypony in Koldstone by accident! If you've heard the rumors that Koldstone was cursed, it was them. Everything, both me glowing and the slavers tie into that night."

"When we got there, everypony was missing, and my Paladin sense was going nuts. Evil everywhere. Even the air itself. We found out it came from the Koldstone Barrows, the Trent family tomb. We hurried there, and found out how to get into the secret chamber, where we destroyed the creature that kept the curse going. When we came back to town, everypony had returned... but the older and weaker ponies... were dead." Beryl sighs.

Then reaches into her saddlebag for the Journal and gives it to Epee. "We found this on one of the dead Brotherhood ponies we found in the tomb. He kept a diary. The last few pages have the future plans of the Brotherhood in them. You probably want to copy that, because we need the book to warn some of the ponies mentioned there."

"The last pages mention needing two dragonblooded ponies to enter the Trent tomb. Those two ponies are the parents of one of our friends. Thanks to some quick thinking on his part, and an arrogant display on the Brotherhood's part, we know they were sold to the Tanari Salt Mines as slaves! Beryl lets that hang in the air for a moment. Both me and Crossguard heard them, if that matters. We're going to get Frostbite's parents out. But we don't really know anything about the mines, or even the names of his parents. Long story. Any help we can get would be awesome. Especially if it means causing trouble for the slavers."

"As for the glowing, well, I have some good news. Possibly incredibly awesome news!" She clears her throat "Does the name 'Heliodor of the Twelve Peers' mean anything to you? Supposed to be one of the original Paladins, who has a habit of getting reborn, if I got it right." Beryl tries to think how to say the next bit without sounding completely insane... "You can probably see where this is going... And I have no idea what I can say or do to prove this claim, but..."

Beryl takes a breath knowing that this is not a claim to make lightly to any Paladin...

"I am Heliodor."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Hey Frost. Yeah, nothing else happened during the night," Ace answers. "We got the door fixed and are just doing a little research. Oh, you probably haven't met Triss and Otto." He points to the red pegasus mare and then the blueish crystal pony colt. The colt shyly waves.
"Glad to hear it. We'll be heading out soon, we'll be getting a boat, probably to Nabru, though this depends on what we hear from the paladins. You in?"

Frost smiles and waves back at Otto.


The pegasus, however, seems to have taken notice of the name 'Frost'. She lights miniature flame on her hoof with magic and grins at Frost like she wanted to show off some tricks. Probably involving fire.

Ivy gives Triss a disapproving look.
Frost can't help but smirk. That was exactly the kind of thing Ash would have done.

He conjures a small ice crystal and hovers above his hoof.

[DigoDragon]

"When we got there, everypony was missing, and my Paladin sense was going nuts. Evil everywhere. Even the air itself. We found out it came from the Koldstone Barrows, the Trent family tomb. We hurried there, and found out how to get into the secret chamber, where we destroyed the creature that kept the curse going. When we came back to town, everypony had returned... but the older and weaker ponies... were dead." Beryl sighs.

Epee looks understandable sad that ponies had died.


Then reaches into her saddlebag for the Journal and gives it to Epee. "We found this on one of the dead Brotherhood ponies we found in the tomb. He kept a diary. The last few pages have the future plans of the Brotherhood in them. You probably want to copy that, because we need the book to warn some of the ponies mentioned there."

The pegasus looks through the book and it seems with every page, her eyes get larger and larger. "Wow, I... who knows about this? I mean besides your group and the authors? Though, it's kind of weird they'd leave something so damning behind. It seems so... like a big rookie mistake. Huh. Still, a lead is a lead. Yes, get a scholar to copy this book down for the knights."


"The last pages mention needing two dragonblooded ponies to enter the Trent tomb. Those two ponies are the parents of one of our friends. Thanks to some quick thinking on his part, and an arrogant display on the Brotherhood's part, we know they were sold to the Tanari Salt Mines as slaves! Beryl lets that hang in the air for a moment. Both me and Crossguard heard them, if that matters. We're going to get Frostbite's parents out. But we don't really know anything about the mines, or even the names of his parents. Long story. Any help we can get would be awesome. Especially if it means causing trouble for the slavers."

This is where Epee seems a bit confused. "The Tanari salt mines? Sigh, I hate that place. I don't suppose there's proof this time?"


"As for the glowing, well, I have some good news. Possibly incredibly awesome news!" She clears her throat "Does the name 'Heliodor of the Twelve Peers' mean anything to you? Supposed to be one of the original Paladins, who has a habit of getting reborn, if I got it right." Beryl tries to think how to say the next bit without sounding completely insane... "You can probably see where this is going... And I have no idea what I can say or do to prove this claim, but..."

Beryl takes a breath knowing that this is not a claim to make lightly to any Paladin...

"I am Heliodor."

Epee gives Beryl a blank clueless stare.



"Glad to hear it. We'll be heading out soon, we'll be getting a boat, probably to Nabru, though this depends on what we hear from the paladins. You in?"

Ace frowns, looks at the piles of books, and then decides to nod. "Yeah, I'll come along. Not where I expected we'd go, but I assume you know what you're doing."


Frost smiles and waves back at Otto.

"I'll uh... go grab snacks." Otto heads upstairs, presumably to the kitchen.


Frost can't help but smirk. That was exactly the kind of thing Ash would have done.

He conjures a small ice crystal and hovers above his hoof.

"Oh dear Solaria, please don't encourage each other," Ivy said worriedly.

Triss extinguishes her flame. "What's wrong? Afraid things might get a little... steamy?"

Ace closes the book and stands up. "Well look at the time I'll go get my things I'll be right down Frost and away we go." The young unicorn dashes up stairs to get his things.

[One Tin Soldier]

Midnight sits down across from Rita, smiling at her once he has her attention. "Hey! So last night, you said that you knew a guy who knew a guy..."

[McNum]

The pegasus looks through the book and it seems with every page, her eyes get larger and larger. "Wow, I... who knows about this? I mean besides your group and the authors? Though, it's kind of weird they'd leave something so damning behind. It seems so... like a big rookie mistake. Huh. Still, a lead is a lead. Yes, get a scholar to copy this book down for the knights."
"You're the first outside of our group who knows. We... didn't actually know how good it was until later, didn't have much time to read." After a short break Beryl continues "Our shaman actually said something similar yesterday. This is a rookie mistake. He almost felt insulted. But honestly... the Brotherhood has been sloppy as far as I can tell. Our group is in this mess because they had somepony set a monster loose and then post a bounty on the same monster. Who does that? They sent vampire spawn after us for that stupid coin, drawing even more attention to themselves. The Koldstone curse hit them, too. Either they're sloppy, or they're really in a hurry for some reason."

Beryl adds "I don't like that their ingredient list has both a horn and wings on it. I really, really don't want to fight an undead alicorn. Who may be an old villain named Valiance reborn."


This is where Epee seems a bit confused. "The Tanari salt mines? Sigh, I hate that place. I don't suppose there's proof this time?"
"Three Brotherhood goons came to taunt us at the library. Like, literally saying we were stupid and weak. Again, who does that? Frostbite wasn't in the mood for that and used magic to ask about his parents. One of them was... compelled to answer that they had been sold to the Tanari Salt Mines." Beryl pauses, knowing that this might be bad. "That journal backs up the story, though, and we know they were at the Koldstone Barrows, because it needed somepony of Frost's family to open a secret door. But I guess the only solid proof we can get... is finding Frostbite's parents. Who may know a whole lot about the Brotherhood, too."

"We're going there to find them. Our shaman has their scent. If they're there, we will find them. But we have no idea on what to do about it. Frostbite suggested 'blasting through with magic'... I have a feeling it's going to be harder than that. Having some official power might work better than magic freeze rays here. Is this enough to get an approved investigation going?"


Epee gives Beryl a blank clueless stare.
Beryl sighs. "Nothing?"

She explains a bit more. "I had a dream. I met three previous lives of Heliodor, all telling me how I was the next one and that I should know more than I do, but something broke this time. They, and for some reason a foal me, recited an oath for me. An ancient one." Beryl quickly thinks inwards, asking the foal to make doubly sure she recites this right.

She clears her throat and begins to recite it, with the foal acting like a mental teleprompter.
"Kindle Inspiration - Through acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness I will inspire the light of hope in the world to beat back despair."
"Protect the Light - Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, I will protect the light from the wickedness of hate."
"Preserve Confidence - I will keep song and laughter, beauty and art within my heart. Without the light of hope, I cannot inspire others to stand tall."
"Be an Example - I will be a heroic beacon to light the way for all who live in shadow! The light of my joy and courage will shine forth in all my deeds!"

"And then I woke up and started glowing with a golden light for half a day. The only time we Crystal Ponies glow like that is when we're part of the Crystal Heart rituals... and that light is more of a clear white than golden. It's really weird. We don't just glow, and especially not the wrong color, out of nowhere."

"But I guess I'd need to ask a total Paladin history geek about that name, Heliodor. Do you have one of those here?"

[DigoDragon]

Midnight sits down across from Rita, smiling at her once he has her attention. "Hey! So last night, you said that you knew a guy who knew a guy..."

Rita pushes the journal to the side and looks Midnight in the eyes. "Hmmm, yes I do. Well, before you break into Fetloch's most corrupt prison system, I'll let you in on a few bits of information." The mare slides over next to Midnight and speaks in hushed tones so they're not overheard.

"First, the salt mines are where Fetloch's worst criminals get sent. If you go in there, you don't kitten-foot around with the other prisoners. I've heard former members of the Brotherhood were locked up there years ago. So remember that asskicking equals authority. Second, it's hard labor. The head warden is an earth pony named Steel Jaw. He likes to think he's king in those mines, but I believe he's actually someone else's little altar boy, if you know what I mean. Lastly, don't expect help from the outside. Arendale doesn't know or doesn't care what goes on in there as long as the salt flows. The paladins can't do anything unless they got hard proof of corruption or slave-trading. And that's the odd thing, Steel doesn't really deal in slavery. It's just some rumor going around every so often to shake the status quo in there."

She puts a hoof on Midnight's and squeezes gently. "Anyway, if you're doing this, you go see my friend Annette at the docks. She's a chubby unicorn with a rustic brown coat, works in the dockmaster's office. Tell her you're cashing Red Riding Hood's chips and she'll help you."



Beryl adds "I don't like that their ingredient list has both a horn and wings on it. I really, really don't want to fight an undead alicorn. Who may be an old villain named Valiance reborn."

Epee scratches her head. "Hmm, I won't pretend to know what they're doing with all those body parts, but... Valiance? That name sounds familiar. I heard Flare Star mention it. He's one of the eldars here, he's seen a lot over the years. I'd get an audience with him."



"We're going there to find them. Our shaman has their scent. If they're there, we will find them. But we have no idea on what to do about it. Frostbite suggested 'blasting through with magic'... I have a feeling it's going to be harder than that. Having some official power might work better than magic freeze rays here. Is this enough to get an approved investigation going?"

"The paladins have a bad relationship with the Tanari salt mines," Epee explains. "See, that's Fetloch's largest prison. Arendale sponsors it. All the real scum get sent there to mine the salt for the region, but it's a place full of rumors of slave rings or drug rings, or what-have-you going on behind the curtains. It's run by a sleaze-ball named Steel Jaw. The paladins have inspected it several times, but never found anything truly wrong going on there. I think it's just one of those kind of prisons that are inherently creepy because of who's locked up inside. You can check it out, but without authority, I don't think Steel is going to cooperate."


She clears her throat and begins to recite it, with the foal acting like a mental teleprompter.
"Kindle Inspiration - Through acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness I will inspire the light of hope in the world to beat back despair."
"Protect the Light - Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, I will protect the light from the wickedness of hate."
"Preserve Confidence - I will keep song and laughter, beauty and art within my heart. Without the light of hope, I cannot inspire others to stand tall."
"Be an Example - I will be a heroic beacon to light the way for all who live in shadow! The light of my joy and courage will shine forth in all my deeds!"

"And then I woke up and started glowing with a golden light for half a day. The only time we Crystal Ponies glow like that is when we're part of the Crystal Heart rituals... and that light is more of a clear white than golden. It's really weird. We don't just glow, and especially not the wrong color, out of nowhere."

"Oh, that oath! Wow, you really should see Flare. He would love to hear this!"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit, having been quiet to let the conversations pan out, was pleased to see everyone heading out on their way. Everything was attended to, including the gathering of Ace; Spirit was now free to do as he wanted. He'd probably have to book the boat later, but there was a bit more that he could do first. Leaving the room and bidding Sheila farewell, Spirit headed down to the market district to snoop around a bit.

Primarily, he was looking for three things: A store or stall liable to sell a scroll or book explaining wrestling techniques; any forms of Druidic markings left in the market district by other wandering spirits; and anyone who has the air of an enchanter, or at least one who might know hedge magic. It was a time of change, a time to improve himself, and a time to learn. Best not waste any time with that.

[DigoDragon]

Primarily, he was looking for three things: A store or stall liable to sell a scroll or book explaining wrestling techniques; any forms of Druidic markings left in the market district by other wandering spirits; and anyone who has the air of an enchanter, or at least one who might know hedge magic. It was a time of change, a time to improve himself, and a time to learn. Best not waste any time with that.

Spirit is able to find a book shop with various manuals on all sorts of subjects. Wrestling is one of them.

As for druidic markings, the market is sadly lacking in any. Either there are few roaming spirits through a large city like this or the markings have been ruined in some manner from whatever pollution or meddling these residents do around the market.

Finally, there was that one fellow, Nitro, that Spirit learned about some days ago. He was a kind of hedge wizard of sorts, dealing in common magics and alchemy.

[McNum]

"The paladins have a bad relationship with the Tanari salt mines," Epee explains. "See, that's Fetloch's largest prison. Arendale sponsors it. All the real scum get sent there to mine the salt for the region, but it's a place full of rumors of slave rings or drug rings, or what-have-you going on behind the curtains. It's run by a sleaze-ball named Steel Jaw. The paladins have inspected it several times, but never found anything truly wrong going on there. I think it's just one of those kind of prisons that are inherently creepy because of who's locked up inside. You can check it out, but without authority, I don't think Steel is going to cooperate."
Beryl listens and her mood sours a bit as she learns of what the mines are. "I was afraid it would be something like that. So we can't really blast through with magic because it's a real prison... I don't want to be responsible for a major jailbreak. I wish we had some way to demand the release of those two that he'd have to respect. If we were to try going over his head on this, who do we talk to?"

With a little thinking, Beryl gets an idea. "You know, if I was about to hold a festival, I'd find the news of somepony being able to cast a curse big enough to wipe out a city to be a problem. And the only two ponies who can tell us how it was done outside of the Brotherhood are Frostbite's parents. I don't like letting Steel get away with it, though, but the important bit is getting those two free before..." Beryl sighs. "...before somepony runs out of patience and does something stupid."


Epee scratches her head. "Hmm, I won't pretend to know what they're doing with all those body parts, but... Valiance? That name sounds familiar. I heard Flare Star mention it. He's one of the eldars here, he's seen a lot over the years. I'd get an audience with him."

"Oh, that oath! Wow, you really should see Flare. He would love to hear this!"
This, on the other hoof, makes Beryl smile. "Yes! I'm not crazy and hearing voices, this IS a thing!" And realizing what she just said out loud, she adds "...that came out wrong."

"Hee hee, are you SURE?"

Trying to ignore that jab from her inner foal, Beryl adds "Do you think Flare Star has time now? We're kind of in a hurry after this. Got ponies to warn, and a friend to help before he gets desperate enough to go solo."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit checks the price on the wrestling manual; if it doesn't cost more than 25 gold or so, then he'll go for a purchase.

(OOC: Not aiming to get a bonus on skill checks, but more aiming to get something to study over time to try and retrain a skill into Athletics in a few levels.)

With that completed, he heads to Nitro's place. When he finds the red brick building, he'll knock politely on the door.

[DigoDragon]

"If we were to try going over his head on this, who do we talk to?"

Epee has to think about this question. "I... guess the mayor of Arendale would be Steel's 'boss'."


This, on the other hoof, makes Beryl smile. "Yes! I'm not crazy and hearing voices, this IS a thing!" And realizing what she just said out loud, she adds "...that came out wrong."

Epee seems to find Beryl's oddness a nice amusement. She smiles.


Trying to ignore that jab from her inner foal, Beryl adds "Do you think Flare Star has time now? We're kind of in a hurry after this. Got ponies to warn, and a friend to help before he gets desperate enough to go solo."

"Yes, let's see if he's in," Epee says. She leads the way out and farther into the temple. At the end of the hall, she opens another door to a larger bedroom. A tall earth pony stallion with a red-orange coat sat behind a writing desk. He stops writing when he sees everyone enter.

Epee stands aside. "Flare Star, this is Dame Beryl and Dame Crossguard. They have questions for you, related to the Brotherhood."

"Ah, please, do tell," Flare responds.



Spirit checks the price on the wrestling manual; if it doesn't cost more than 25 gold or so, then he'll go for a purchase.

The manual was a mare 20 gold bargain.


With that completed, he heads to Nitro's place. When he finds the red brick building, he'll knock politely on the door.

After a moment the door opens. Spirit sees a wiry old earth pony. His coat was a dull gray with splotches of black and his mane was red with silver streaks in it. He had a natural scrunch to his face that makes it hard to tell what his mood is.

"Come in, come in. I am open for hire. What services are you looking for?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit happily purchases the manual; he'll have time to practice and study on the boat.


After a moment the door opens. Spirit sees a wiry old earth pony. His coat was a dull gray with splotches of black and his mane was red with silver streaks in it. He had a natural scrunch to his face that makes it hard to tell what his mood is.

"Come in, come in. I am open for hire. What services are you looking for?"

Spirit smiles genially. "I am looking for a consultation, or perhaps a crash course in local hedge magic. I'm not sure how many of the Zebra rituals I'm familiar with will work this far away from the totems of my people, nor which curses are known in this land. I was hoping to put a Nithing on a slaver living north of here, but I'm unsure if it will be recognized or even work as I'm used to. Do you have any alternatives you'd recommend, or advice in laying the curse?"

An ancient form of nordic curse. Impale the head of a beast of burden on a long rod of wood, upon which you carve your curse. Stick it in the ground overlooking the domain of one you hate, and illness, misfortune, and death will follow them. By carving the name of the one who cursed you on the Nithing rod you can reflect the curse on the caster; otherwise, the curse can only be removed by the will of the one who laid it. Breaking or removing the Nithing rod merely removes the possibility of ending or reflecting the curse. Effects may have mostly been cultural in Spirit's land; thus, seeking advice from the local expert.

[One Tin Soldier]

Rita pushes the journal to the side and looks Midnight in the eyes. "Hmmm, yes I do. Well, before you break into Fetloch's most corrupt prison system, I'll let you in on a few bits of information." The mare slides over next to Midnight and speaks in hushed tones so they're not overheard.

"First, the salt mines are where Fetloch's worst criminals get sent. If you go in there, you don't kitten-foot around with the other prisoners. I've heard former members of the Brotherhood were locked up there years ago. So remember that asskicking equals authority. Second, it's hard labor. The head warden is an earth pony named Steel Jaw. He likes to think he's king in those mines, but I believe he's actually someone else's little altar boy, if you know what I mean. Lastly, don't expect help from the outside. Arendale doesn't know or doesn't care what goes on in there as long as the salt flows. The paladins can't do anything unless they got hard proof of corruption or slave-trading. And that's the odd thing, Steel doesn't really deal in slavery. It's just some rumor going around every so often to shake the status quo in there."

She puts a hoof on Midnight's and squeezes gently. "Anyway, if you're doing this, you go see my friend Annette at the docks. She's a chubby unicorn with a rustic brown coat, works in the dockmaster's office. Tell her you're cashing Red Riding Hood's chips and she'll help you."

Midnight nods along as Rita explains about the prison. "Don't let ourselves get beat up, the head bossguy takes orders from someone else, take care of stuff on our own. Got it."

"So after we're done breaking out of Fetloch's most corrupt prison system, what's the best inn in Arendale? We'll want a good place to meet up for the festival, after all."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Ace frowns, looks at the piles of books, and then decides to nod. "Yeah, I'll come along. Not where I expected we'd go, but I assume you know what you're doing."

"I'll uh... go grab snacks." Otto heads upstairs, presumably to the kitchen.

"Oh dear Solaria, please don't encourage each other," Ivy said worriedly.

Triss extinguishes her flame. "What's wrong? Afraid things might get a little... steamy?"

Ace closes the book and stands up. "Well look at the time I'll go get my things I'll be right down Frost and away we go." The young unicorn dashes up stairs to get his things.
Frost shrugs at Otto and Ivy and nods to Ace, then sits down to wait. "So, what are you studying?" he asks Ivy and Triss.

[DigoDragon]

Spirit smiles genially. "I am looking for a consultation, or perhaps a crash course in local hedge magic. I'm not sure how many of the Zebra rituals I'm familiar with will work this far away from the totems of my people, nor which curses are known in this land. I was hoping to put a Nithing on a slaver living north of here, but I'm unsure if it will be recognized or even work as I'm used to. Do you have any alternatives you'd recommend, or advice in laying the curse?"

Nitro goes over to a shelf of books. He flips through a book titled Curses and Blessings, A Mixed Almanac and finds the subject asked of him.

"Here's what I have on your pet project. I can supply the head if you don't mind sheep. Not very burdensome, but surprisingly cost-effective. I can copy these notes if you're just looking for a primer."



Midnight nods along as Rita explains about the prison. "Don't let ourselves get beat up, the head bossguy takes orders from someone else, take care of stuff on our own. Got it."

"So after we're done breaking out of Fetloch's most corrupt prison system, what's the best inn in Arendale? We'll want a good place to meet up for the festival, after all."

Rita doesn't hesitate to answer. "The North Star is the one you want. Rooms will go quickly, so don't wait until the last day to rent one."



Frost shrugs at Otto and Ivy and nods to Ace, then sits down to wait. "So, what are you studying?" he asks Ivy and Triss.

"Ivy shows one of the books on the track. "Ace talked about the barrow you all visited to fight the Brotherhood, so we thought to look up where other big graveyard barrows are. Arendale has one outside of the city in the hills, there's one in Oldenburg, and there was one in Exmoor, but that collapsed and was abandoned."

[Fable Wright]

Nitro goes over to a shelf of books. He flips through a book titled Curses and Blessings, A Mixed Almanac and finds the subject asked of him.

"Here's what I have on your pet project. I can supply the head if you don't mind sheep. Not very burdensome, but surprisingly cost-effective. I can copy these notes if you're just looking for a primer."

"Ooh, that is a lovely tome. Who's the author?" Spirit peers over at the pages inquisitorially. "And would you happen to have a spare copy? If you don't have a spare, the notes are fine; I'm familiar with Zebrican rites and would just need a localized update. Let's see... the head shouldn't be much of a problem if deer or gazelle live in the area, and other than that... oh! Right. Is it likely that someone from the Arendale region would recognize the Nithing for what it was?"

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Ivy shows one of the books on the track. "Ace talked about the barrow you all visited to fight the Brotherhood, so we thought to look up where other big graveyard barrows are. Arendale has one outside of the city in the hills, there's one in Oldenburg, and there was one in Exmoor, but that collapsed and was abandoned."
"I see. Any of them linked to the Trent family at all?"

[McNum]

Epee has to think about this question. "I... guess the mayor of Arendale would be Steel's 'boss'."

Epee seems to find Beryl's oddness a nice amusement. She smiles.

"Yes, let's see if he's in," Epee says. She leads the way out and farther into the temple. At the end of the hall, she opens another door to a larger bedroom. A tall earth pony stallion with a red-orange coat sat behind a writing desk. He stops writing when he sees everyone enter.

Epee stands aside. "Flare Star, this is Dame Beryl and Dame Crossguard. They have questions for you, related to the Brotherhood."

"Ah, please, do tell," Flare responds.
Being called "Dame Beryl" takes Beryl a little by surprise, she can't help but smile a little about it, but she tries to keep a somewhat straight face.

Beryl begins in a somewhat downcast tone, she doesn't know Flare Star, so she's staying in her default polite to authority figures tone for starters. "There's two big things we found out." Beryl begins.

"The Brotherhood is, at least kind of, the ones who hit Koldstone with a horrible curse. They broke into the Trent family tomb to steal an old body part, but when they did, the entire town was hit by a horrible curse that made everypony vanish and slowly have their life drained." Beryl thinks for a moment. "Our group found out how to break that curse after following them into the tomb. Many of the Brotherhood ponies had fallen to the traps and air-monster there, and one of them kept a journal. Dame Epee was reading it, but the last few pages has... a shopping list. They're gathering parts to build an undead Alicorn, I think. At least they have both wings and a horn in the recipe. We heard the name 'Valiance' as somepony they might be trying to bring back. Do you know who Valiance was?"

"They also ponynapped the parents of one of our friends, since they needed a dragonblooded pony to open a secret door in the tomb. We're trying to find them, and thanks to the Brotherhood feeling they needed to taunt us, we've learned that they may have been sold to the Tanari Salt Mines. We're going to try and get them out, but... we don't know how. They are the only ponies who might be able to tell us what happened when the Brotherhood cast that curse. But they're also Frostbite's parents, and that's why I'm going, at least."

Beryl tries to take a bit more chipper tone for the next part "But it's not all bad news. I learned another name in a dream the night before yesterday. And an oath that Dame Epee said she'd heard before, and that I should tell you. That oath goes like this..."

Beryl once more relies on the foal to make sure it's accurate.
"Kindle Inspiration - Through acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness I will inspire the light of hope in the world to beat back despair."
"Protect the Light - Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, I will protect the light from the wickedness of hate."
"Preserve Confidence - I will keep song and laughter, beauty and art within my heart. Without the light of hope, I cannot inspire others to stand tall."
"Be an Example - I will be a heroic beacon to light the way for all who live in shadow! The light of my joy and courage will shine forth in all my deeds!"

"I was taught that, and sworn into it by somepony who introduced himself as the spirit of 'Heliodor of the Twelve Peers'. He also told me that he gets reborn as a new pony every so often and right now that pony is, well... me. I've been trying to find out if Heliodor was real, but hearing that Dame Epee knew that oath... I kind of want to know. Was there a Heliodor? And... could I be him?"

[DigoDragon]

"Ooh, that is a lovely tome. Who's the author?" Spirit peers over at the pages inquisitorially.

Nitro flips the book over to the inside cover. "Someone named Red Sparrow."


"And would you happen to have a spare copy? If you don't have a spare, the notes are fine; I'm familiar with Zebrican rites and would just need a localized update. Let's see... the head shouldn't be much of a problem if deer or gazelle live in the area, and other than that... oh! Right. Is it likely that someone from the Arendale region would recognize the Nithing for what it was?"

"'Fraid this my only copy, but I can write the notes down on a scroll for you." He brings over a long roll of parchment and a bright yellow quill. He whistles at the quill and holds it over the pages. After a few seconds Nitro puts the quill on the blank scroll and the quill begins writing by itself, making a good copy of the Nithing notes.

"As for who'd recognize this... don' know. I doubt many. I think most folks in Arendale would assume it's some prank or a poorly made scarecrow. Just my professional opinion."


"I see. Any of them linked to the Trent family at all?"

Triss nods. "Oh yes, the one at Arendale apparently has buried a lot of Trent family members. Moreso than the one in Koldstone. In fact, Koldstone barrows were only built about two decades ago according to this book. We thought it was older. So you went into a relatively new burial site."


"Do you know who Valiance was?"

Flare Star leans back in his chair. "Valiance... that is a name I haven't heard for a very long time. I knew him. A young and ambitious cleric with... equally ambitious beliefs. He used to travel with Illia over at the mage college, and those two spent more nights together in the city pokey than I've celebrated New Years as the head of this order."

For some reason, Flare's trip down memory lane went from nostalgic contentment to sadness. "Hmm... that was a long time ago though. Before you were born, I'm sure."


"They also ponynapped the parents of one of our friends, since they needed a dragonblooded pony to open a secret door in the tomb. We're trying to find them, and thanks to the Brotherhood feeling they needed to taunt us, we've learned that they may have been sold to the Tanari Salt Mines. We're going to try and get them out, but... we don't know how. They are the only ponies who might be able to tell us what happened when the Brotherhood cast that curse. But they're also Frostbite's parents, and that's why I'm going, at least."

"The salt mines? Ehhhh, it's a rotten place to be stuck at. Your best bet may be to just buy their freedom. Unless, of course, you can prove they're not actual prisoners and were sold to the mines illegally. Do that and we'd be all over them like stink on dog mess."


"I was taught that, and sworn into it by somepony who introduced himself as the spirit of 'Heliodor of the Twelve Peers'. He also told me that he gets reborn as a new pony every so often and right now that pony is, well... me. I've been trying to find out if Heliodor was real, but hearing that Dame Epee knew that oath... I kind of want to know. Was there a Heliodor? And... could I be him?"

"Thank you," Flare Star states, glancing over to Epee. "You know how long it takes some of the new squires to learn that? I know of the Heliodor legend, but I couldn't tell you if you are his reincarnation or you're only having some kind of vision. There are ways to find out, if you have a couple days available."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit nods, and stares at the quill with envy. "That would certainly make copying books easier, I'd imagine. How did you happen by one?"

When an answer was given, he then settles down to business. "So, the other portion of my business here. A primer in local hedge magic, in case I need to try and update zebra rituals in the field. In my culture, a ritual takes three parts: Casting a sacred circle, gathering charge, and assembling the totem. The sacred circle is usually either using the circle of death and life with a sacrifice, in the case of a curse; marking the walls of an enclosure with symbols, in the case of a blessing; or trying to hijack an existing sacred space, like a permanent estate, in the case of either. Gathering charge is the varied part, using actual magic, listing grievances of yourself or others for a curse, asking a local spirit to power it, or using the well-wishes of others to power it in a few powerful cases like the Crystal Heart. The last step is assembling a totem to funnel the spell in a desired state, which usually requires some runes and artifacts. Does this match pony ritual casting?"

"For example, if I were to try and create a heavy storm to amplify the effects of a Nithing for a day, in Zebra lands I would create a cloud of steam or fog around the Nithing rod and run lightning across it, using the Nithing as the sacred circle. The lightning and cloud would charge the space with storm energy, and then I'd carve runes of lightning, curses, and rain upon the skeleton of a bird to create the totem. Then I'd lay it under an open sky, and the cursed storm would last for about 12 hours until the totem broke apart under the rain. This would cause the area around the cursed to be infused with bad feelings and disorder, and circumstances would conspire to bring ruin to the cursed. Is this a kind of ritual that would work this far from Zebra totems?"

Was hoping to create unrest and a near-prison riot scenario that the party could sneak in under to bust out Frostbite's parents, assuming the party went along with it. Spending a few hours and skill rolls setting up a ritual curse seemed more in line with Spirit's character than mingling among prisoners and trying to get them to riot that way.

[McNum]

Flare Star leans back in his chair. "Valiance... that is a name I haven't heard for a very long time. I knew him. A young and ambitious cleric with... equally ambitious beliefs. He used to travel with Illia over at the mage college, and those two spent more nights together in the city pokey than I've celebrated New Years as the head of this order."

For some reason, Flare's trip down memory lane went from nostalgic contentment to sadness. "Hmm... that was a long time ago though. Before you were born, I'm sure."
Beryl makes a quick mental note about the name "Illia". That could very well be the name of the Master Librarian, she thinks. But it would be impolite to call her that without permission...

"It likely was, This is my first trip out of the Crystal Empire on my own, my parents thought I could stay out of trouble... heh. Didn't expect to get superpowers from an old Palad spirit. I've only been able to do Paladin stuff for a week." Beryl glances at Epee for a moment. "Say, can the healing hooves thing fix a broken wing? I'm still learning how this all works..."


"The salt mines? Ehhhh, it's a rotten place to be stuck at. Your best bet may be to just buy their freedom. Unless, of course, you can prove they're not actual prisoners and were sold to the mines illegally. Do that and we'd be all over them like stink on dog mess."

"Wow..." Beryl stalls trying to find a way to say this politely. "I didn't expect you to say that. I'm not sure I like the idea of rewarding slavers... but I can't say I haven't thought of it either. All we have is we know that they were at the Koldstone Barrows the same day we were, and that Frostbite managed to get one of the Brotherhood goons who came to taunt us at the library to tell us that they had sold his parents to the mines. ...but that probably isn't enough. I was thinking of scaring the Arendale mayor by telling him about the Koldstone curse and asking for those two ponies who saw how it worked to get released to me, but I'm a baker. I don't have that kind of authority." After a quick thought, she adds "Would Crossguard be able to do that?"

And Beryl then remembers the other problem. "But we don't know the names of the two ponies. And we kind of need those to demand them released. Our shaman has their scent, but unless there's a faster way to find out, we're thinking of visiting Azurah to ask if she can tell us. There wouldn't happen to have been two adult ponies asking for help in finding their son here in the last week, would there?"


"Thank you," Flare Star states, glancing over to Epee. "You know how long it takes some of the new squires to learn that? I know of the Heliodor legend, but I couldn't tell you if you are his reincarnation or you're only having some kind of vision. There are ways to find out, if you have a couple days available."
"I would love to, but that rescue is urgent. Not that I think Frost's parents will be in more danger after a few days, injured prisoners can't mine salt after all, but Frost himself is getting... anxious, and I worry he'll do something rash if I'm not there to help him. This doesn't look like a problem that 'blasting it with magic' can solve." Beryl sighs. "Honestly, you telling me that I got all of this right has helped a lot. If that much of the dream fits the legends, then... maybe the rest is true, too. I hadn't heard any of that before dreaming about it. Dream Heliodor told me that my quest against the darkness would continue in Arendale, so I guess I'm heading that way on the way to Tanari."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Triss nods. "Oh yes, the one at Arendale apparently has buried a lot of Trent family members. Moreso than the one in Koldstone. In fact, Koldstone barrows were only built about two decades ago according to this book. We thought it was older. So you went into a relatively new burial site."
"Huh. Interesting. Maybe we can find out more about the name that was crossed off in Koldstone."

[DigoDragon]

Spirit nods, and stares at the quill with envy. "That would certainly make copying books easier, I'd imagine. How did you happen by one?"

"Something I picked up from Oldenburg. You can find a lot of second-hoof trinkets in their market."


When an answer was given, he then settles down to business. "So, the other portion of my business here. A primer in local hedge magic, in case I need to try and update zebra rituals in the field. In my culture, a ritual takes three parts: Casting a sacred circle, gathering charge, and assembling the totem. The sacred circle is usually either using the circle of death and life with a sacrifice, in the case of a curse; marking the walls of an enclosure with symbols, in the case of a blessing; or trying to hijack an existing sacred space, like a permanent estate, in the case of either. Gathering charge is the varied part, using actual magic, listing grievances of yourself or others for a curse, asking a local spirit to power it, or using the well-wishes of others to power it in a few powerful cases like the Crystal Heart. The last step is assembling a totem to funnel the spell in a desired state, which usually requires some runes and artifacts. Does this match pony ritual casting?"

"There are many paths of magic. Some overlap here and there, but ultimately the destination is the point. What you describe isn't akin to ritual casting I studied, but it's simply a matter of taking a different road to the same point. Where you use circles I might use a cauldron or fire pit. Perhaps different ingredients of the charge, clippings of those that offended me, and of course the third part could be similar in assembling a focus for this curse to funnel through."

At this point Nitro snatches his magic quill, for the little magic item completed the scroll and had started taking nitro's dictation all over the table. "Like I said, second-hoof. Anyway, if you're looking for a different angle on your curse, I can show you a few passages in my collection. I don't have anything on more... shamanistic approaches, but you're a smart kid. You can probably translate the different methods in your sleep."



Beryl glances at Epee for a moment. "Say, can the healing hooves thing fix a broken wing? I'm still learning how this all works..."

"It can, if you channel enough energy into it," Flare answers.


"I didn't expect you to say that. I'm not sure I like the idea of rewarding slavers... but I can't say I haven't thought of it either. All we have is we know that they were at the Koldstone Barrows the same day we were, and that Frostbite managed to get one of the Brotherhood goons who came to taunt us at the library to tell us that they had sold his parents to the mines."

Flare leans forward. "I would sooner set a criminal free than leave an innocent pony behind bars. Paying the prison is of no consequence when it releases two ponies that should not be there. That is one of the hardest decisions of a Paladin-- deciding when to yield to evil when sparing the lives of innocents are more important than bringing justice."


After a quick thought, she adds "Would Crossguard be able to do that?"

And Beryl then remembers the other problem. "But we don't know the names of the two ponies. And we kind of need those to demand them released. Our shaman has their scent, but unless there's a faster way to find out, we're thinking of visiting Azurah to ask if she can tell us. There wouldn't happen to have been two adult ponies asking for help in finding their son here in the last week, would there?"

Flare Star shakes his head. "I do not believe Crossguard holds much authority to sway the mayor of Arendale, but you can always ask. The festival is nearly upon us, it may be a factor in your favor if those in power feel a little more lenient during the time of reverie."

"I have not heard of anyone coming here looking for their son, so I'm afraid the ponies you seek did not stop by here."



"Huh. Interesting. Maybe we can find out more about the name that was crossed off in Koldstone."

"Well, we don't have any genealogy books on the Trent Family, but I'm sure you'll find them in Arendale... and the family themselves," Ivy says. "Never met them, but I've heard all sorts of rumors of them being snobbish depraved unicorns that worship the gold coin."

Ace returns with his things, ready to travel again.

[McNum]

"It can, if you channel enough energy into it," Flare answers.
"Hmm... If Dame Epee will let me, I'd like to try. I'm still new at this, so maybe it's a good idea to try without having vampire spawn or monsters made of ice and wind charging at me. Take it slow and learn how to do it right."

Beryl looks at Epee. "Would you mind if I tried healing your wing after this?"


Flare leans forward. "I would sooner set a criminal free than leave an innocent pony behind bars. Paying the prison is of no consequence when it releases two ponies that should not be there. That is one of the hardest decisions of a Paladin-- deciding when to yield to evil when sparing the lives of innocents are more important than bringing justice."
Beryl looks like she just got scolded. She takes a heavy breath and answers "I'm sorry... I am learning all too fast that being a Paladin is not as awesome as it sounds. It has its moments, and seeing somepony break into smile because you helped them is pretty good. But I'm not used to the hard choices yet. Or... bittersweet victories. There's going to be a lot of those, isn't there?" After a brief pause she adds "Being a Paladin is harder than being a baker."


Flare Star shakes his head. "I do not believe Crossguard holds much authority to sway the mayor of Arendale, but you can always ask. The festival is nearly upon us, it may be a factor in your favor if those in power feel a little more lenient during the time of reverie."

"I have not heard of anyone coming here looking for their son, so I'm afraid the ponies you seek did not stop by here."
"Yeah, it's a longshot, but I can't think of many ways of freeing those two without anypony getting hurt. The worst he can do is say no... and then we can still try to buy their freedom. Even if that idea doesn't sit well with me, but..." Beryl hesitates trying to think of the next line "...if that's our best shot, I'll do it. My oath does tell me to Protect the Light, it doesn't actually say Smite the Dark. I guess paying off the dark would be... good enough. If I can afford it. I can rattle off the cost of everything you need for a cake, but I've never bought a pony's freedom before."

[Fable Wright]

"Something I picked up from Oldenburg. You can find a lot of second-hoof trinkets in their market."

Spirit nods. "Makes sense. Would that include enchanted trinkets as well?" Then he claps his forehead. "Oh, I just remembered! Do you know where a magic item exchange might take place? I have many potions and several permanent items in my possession, and am looking for items to enhance leaping potential. Any advice on exchanges in Oldenburg or Arendale would be greatly appreciated."


"There are many paths of magic. Some overlap here and there, but ultimately the destination is the point. What you describe isn't akin to ritual casting I studied, but it's simply a matter of taking a different road to the same point. Where you use circles I might use a cauldron or fire pit. Perhaps different ingredients of the charge, clippings of those that offended me, and of course the third part could be similar in assembling a focus for this curse to funnel through."

"Curious. A cauldron or pit is a form of sacred circle, but clippings of the offender is interesting. That implies using your target's personal demons to hex them. I suppose it works, and the curse would follow them to the ends of the earth; our Druidic curses only last near the source, unless we link the curse to our totem networks. I suppose we allow for the mercy of exile against our targets."


At this point Nitro snatches his magic quill, for the little magic item completed the scroll and had started taking nitro's dictation all over the table. "Like I said, second-hoof. Anyway, if you're looking for a different angle on your curse, I can show you a few passages in my collection. I don't have anything on more... shamanistic approaches, but you're a smart kid. You can probably translate the different methods in your sleep."

Spirit nods. "Depends on the cost. I'd be interested, certainly, but I can manage on my own for the most part, and my purse is beginning to wear thin. Although... do you know who might know how to create locus totems? It has been some time since I could shift between forms with so little worry as I did back home."

[DigoDragon]

"Hmm... If Dame Epee will let me, I'd like to try. I'm still new at this, so maybe it's a good idea to try without having vampire spawn or monsters made of ice and wind charging at me. Take it slow and learn how to do it right."

Beryl looks at Epee. "Would you mind if I tried healing your wing after this?"

Epee shook her head. "No, it's quite alright. You should save it for your journey. Could be more of what jumped me lying out there in wait."


"But I'm not used to the hard choices yet. Or... bittersweet victories. There's going to be a lot of those, isn't there?" After a brief pause she adds "Being a Paladin is harder than being a baker."

"The path of a paladin is by far the most difficult of all that uphold the law. There will be many hard choices to make, as well as many bittersweet victories. However, we follow this difficult path because no other can do it, and the accomplishments we do in the name of the light will shine all the more brightly because we lead the charge. We make the greatest difference," Flare says. He stops a moment and thinks. Then he continues.

"In a way that is perhaps more homely to your background-- anyone can bake a loaf of bread, but only a true chef can feed an army."



Spirit nods. "Makes sense. Would that include enchanted trinkets as well?" Then he claps his forehead. "Oh, I just remembered! Do you know where a magic item exchange might take place? I have many potions and several permanent items in my possession, and am looking for items to enhance leaping potential. Any advice on exchanges in Oldenburg or Arendale would be greatly appreciated."

"The Arendale magic guilds hold a tight grip on sales. Too much hassle for ye if you're not opening a full shop. If a hassle-free market is what you seek for just a few quick exchanges, Midoor is the place to be."


Spirit nods. "Depends on the cost. I'd be interested, certainly, but I can manage on my own for the most part, and my purse is beginning to wear thin. Although... do you know who might know how to create locus totems? It has been some time since I could shift between forms with so little worry as I did back home."

Nitro considers the question. "Perhaps you should see Clan Henry to the south. They have several sages who build totems on commission. Not always for payment though, but i'm sure you know how it works with ponies of the land. The best of the best I hear is a shaman named Azurah. Might look her up if you head down to the clans."

[One Tin Soldier]

Midnight gives Rita's hoof a squeeze in return. "I'll see you at the North Star, then!" With that, he gets up from the table and leaves the inn. Then he takes to the air, circling around to the docks to find Rita's friend.

After some quarter hour trying to find it from the air, he lights down in front of the harbormaster's office, and begins looking for Annette.

[Fable Wright]

"The Arendale magic guilds hold a tight grip on sales. Too much hassle for ye if you're not opening a full shop. If a hassle-free market is what you seek for just a few quick exchanges, Midoor is the place to be."

"I see... so I could not even use my own items as payment, or perform equal exchanges? That is disappointing. So, to trade for the items I seek, I just walk into Midoor?"


Nitro considers the question. "Perhaps you should see Clan Henry to the south. They have several sages who build totems on commission. Not always for payment though, but i'm sure you know how it works with ponies of the land. The best of the best I hear is a shaman named Azurah. Might look her up if you head down to the clans."

Spirit raises an eyebrow. "I have business with Azurah later today anyways. What can you tell me of her?"

[Jurai]

Flare Star shakes his head. "I do not believe Crossguard holds much authority to sway the mayor of Arendale, but you can always ask. The festival is nearly upon us, it may be a factor in your favor if those in power feel a little more lenient during the time of reverie."

"An impassioned plea, especially on such a momentous occasion, is more useful than a forceful show of authority." Crossguard says. "Thank you, sir, for your knowledge and insight. In fact, could you transcribe the Heliodor legend for us and send it to us by courier, magical or otherwise?"

[McNum]

Epee shook her head. "No, it's quite alright. You should save it for your journey. Could be more of what jumped me lying out there in wait."
"With the way our team has been going, I'm expecting whatever jumps us to have more claws and fangs than that. I don't expect more than a boring boat ride today... but then again, I didn't expect everypony in Koldstone to be cursed and dying when we went there either."


"The path of a paladin is by far the most difficult of all that uphold the law. There will be many hard choices to make, as well as many bittersweet victories. However, we follow this difficult path because no other can do it, and the accomplishments we do in the name of the light will shine all the more brightly because we lead the charge. We make the greatest difference," Flare says. He stops a moment and thinks. Then he continues.

"In a way that is perhaps more homely to your background-- anyone can bake a loaf of bread, but only a true chef can feed an army."
Beryl wonders if that's what she sounds like when talking Paladin talk, but she decides not to call him out too much on it.

"Or invent a muffin recipe that gets your daughter sent halfway across Ponaria so it can be made fresh. But I wouldn't feed an army with muffins, they travel poorly. Some easier to make travel bread would be better." Beryl taps her baking supplies bag with a little pride.

She thinks a bit, trying to angle it just right. "I met a Paladin when I really needed one as a foal. He saved me from some foalnappers, but I never met him again. I wanted to be a hero like him ever since. You know, be there when somepony else really needed me. It's much harder than I thought it would be, but... it's been worth it. And I have been there when ponies needed me." She the adds with a smile "I wonder if I'll ever need to be both a Paladin and a baker to help somepony. Or help somepony by singing... again." She lets out a short laugh thinking about it "I may have thrown an improvised town party to flush out whoever wasn't happy about us killing the Cragadile in Shornhoof. It worked, too! It's how we learned that the Brotherhood was causing trouble."

She looks at Epee again "Oh that reminds me! Did our fuzzy friend in Shornhoof say anything? What was his name... Captain Bill? I mean other than ranting about Solaria and a returning Master?"

[DigoDragon]

After some quarter hour trying to find it from the air, he lights down in front of the harbormaster's office, and begins looking for Annette.

Annette is found at the dockmaster's office. She is indeed a chubby little unicorn, almost as wide as she is tall. Her rustic brown coat had the scent of sea salt in it and her sandy mane was about as unkempt as... well we'll leave it at 'Messy'. She was sitting behind the counter alone making a copy of a cargo ship's manifest.



"I see... so I could not even use my own items as payment, or perform equal exchanges? That is disappointing. So, to trade for the items I seek, I just walk into Midoor?"

"Well, I mean you could sell your stuff in Arendale, but you have fees to pay the guilds and need to purchase a temporary resale license. You're better off in Midoor. More of a free market environment where you're only charged if you're selling large quantities of goods."


Spirit raises an eyebrow. "I have business with Azurah later today anyways. What can you tell me of her?"

"I've met her once in my travels south. She's a zebra shaman who has traveled through every known country in Ponaria. Knows a bit about everything, though she's a bit... I guess the word for it is eccentric. Anyone sage in the Fetloch area that wants to be taken seriously would have met her at least twice."



"An impassioned plea, especially on such a momentous occasion, is more useful than a forceful show of authority." Crossguard says. "Thank you, sir, for your knowledge and insight. In fact, could you transcribe the Heliodor legend for us and send it to us by courier, magical or otherwise?"

"Yes, I'll have one of our scribes magically send you a copy of the transcripts," Flare Star says.



She looks at Epee again "Oh that reminds me! Did our fuzzy friend in Shornhoof say anything? What was his name... Captain Bill? I mean other than ranting about Solaria and a returning Master?"

Epee shook her head. "No. He was quite sickly when I saw him. Probably has at most a couple more days. I'm thinking somepony got to him before I did. Maybe the same pony that jumped me on my trip back."

[Fable Wright]

"Well, I mean you could sell your stuff in Arendale, but you have fees to pay the guilds and need to purchase a temporary resale license. You're better off in Midoor. More of a free market environment where you're only charged if you're selling large quantities of goods."

Spirit opens his mouth, then closes it, looks confused, then tries again. "Barter: The equivalent exchange of goods or services without shiny metals changing hooves. I seek to exchange an item in high demand for an item in lower demand that have roughly equal creation costs, without getting fleeced by a moneylender or disparate purchase/sell rates. Is such a direct exchange possible in either Midoor or Arendale? If so, can you give me locations of merchants most likely to engage in these equitable transactions? I do not seek gold but mutual benefit, and am unsure why I would need to jump through hoops for the former when the latter would be simpler. Can one not trade salt for flour in these lands?"


"I've met her once in my travels south. She's a zebra shaman who has traveled through every known country in Ponaria. Knows a bit about everything, though she's a bit... I guess the word for it is eccentric. Anyone sage in the Fetloch area that wants to be taken seriously would have met her at least twice."

Spirit just stares at Nitro flatly. "You're talking to someone who just spent a few hours last night talking to the bear-sized spider he parked just outside of a tavern window about different ways to snare and eat dire bats. You're going to have to be a bit more specific when you say 'eccentric.'"

[DigoDragon]

Spirit opens his mouth, then closes it, looks confused, then tries again. "Barter: The equivalent exchange of goods or services without shiny metals changing hooves. I seek to exchange an item in high demand for an item in lower demand that have roughly equal creation costs, without getting fleeced by a moneylender or disparate purchase/sell rates. Is such a direct exchange possible in either Midoor or Arendale? If so, can you give me locations of merchants most likely to engage in these equitable transactions? I do not seek gold but mutual benefit, and am unsure why I would need to jump through hoops for the former when the latter would be simpler. Can one not trade salt for flour in these lands?"

"Sure, you can barter in any city market with folks who accept it. Basuto has a healthy market for some barter," Nitro explains, "I'm just trying to save you the hassle that Arendale guilds will give you. It's just bad, believe me. You'd have an easier time bartering with the barbarians of Clan Henry."



Spirit just stares at Nitro flatly. "You're talking to someone who just spent a few hours last night talking to the bear-sized spider he parked just outside of a tavern window about different ways to snare and eat dire bats. You're going to have to be a bit more specific when you say 'eccentric.'"

Nitro scratches his head. "Giant spider...? Okay, well, Azurah has a pack of wolves that she lives with. Like, she'll hunt and howl as if she's one of them. Maybe that's nothing weird to you, but I felt like she wasn't doing it for obvious reasons. Maybe I'm reading too into it. Anyway, think of her as a wolf and you'd probably stay on her good side."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Well, we don't have any genealogy books on the Trent Family, but I'm sure you'll find them in Arendale... and the family themselves," Ivy says. "Never met them, but I've heard all sorts of rumors of them being snobbish depraved unicorns that worship the gold coin."

Ace returns with his things, ready to travel again.
"Well, I'm not sure I really want to meet them. Anyway, thanks for the tip. Ace, ready to go?"

[Fable Wright]

"Sure, you can barter in any city market with folks who accept it. Basuto has a healthy market for some barter," Nitro explains, "I'm just trying to save you the hassle that Arendale guilds will give you. It's just bad, believe me. You'd have an easier time bartering with the barbarians of Clan Henry."

Spirit nods. "Thank you. I do appreciate your efforts. Where in Basuto or Midoor, then, might I barter magic for magic? I do not know these cities well; the name of a single store or trader would do me much good."


Nitro scratches his head. "Giant spider...? Okay, well, Azurah has a pack of wolves that she lives with. Like, she'll hunt and howl as if she's one of them. Maybe that's nothing weird to you, but I felt like she wasn't doing it for obvious reasons. Maybe I'm reading too into it. Anyway, think of her as a wolf and you'd probably stay on her good side."

"So, a Huntmaster, a Geomancer, Wolfborn, or any combination thereof. Intriguing. Do you know if any of her pack are Awakened? Let's see, if she's a geomancer and using the wolves to read leylines and the secrets of the world, they're probably all mundane, and being a geomancer would explain her reputation. If she's a Huntmaster, she's probably got the upper escelons of her pack awakened, but most mundane... and if she's Wolfborn, she'd awaken as many as she could. Hm. A challenge for a place in the pack would go poorly with a geomancer, as it might disrupt the pack's bond for a while, but it'd be almost mandatory with a Huntmaster or Wolfborn. If she's a geomancer and one of the above, things get a bit tricky..." He frowns, thinking, then looks back at Nitro. "Do any of her pack speak language? And if so, which? Speaking Common, Sylvan, or Primordial would probably be my biggest clue if she's a combination of lupine archetypes. Common for Huntsmasters, Sylvan for Wolfborn, Primordial for a geomantic mix."

[DigoDragon]

"Well, I'm not sure I really want to meet them. Anyway, thanks for the tip. Ace, ready to go?"

Ace nods. "Yep, ready as I'll ever be. Got all my spells for the day and my traveling books."


Spirit nods. "Thank you. I do appreciate your efforts. Where in Basuto or Midoor, then, might I barter magic for magic? I do not know these cities well; the name of a single store or trader would do me much good."

"Well, I don't often barter so I couldn't tell you much that's helpful. You just have to spend some time in the markets talking with folks. Usually the small stalls are where you'd want to be."


"So, a Huntmaster, a Geomancer, Wolfborn, or any combination thereof. Intriguing. Do you know if any of her pack are Awakened? Let's see, if she's a geomancer and using the wolves to read leylines and the secrets of the world, they're probably all mundane, and being a geomancer would explain her reputation. If she's a Huntmaster, she's probably got the upper escelons of her pack awakened, but most mundane... and if she's Wolfborn, she'd awaken as many as she could. Hm. A challenge for a place in the pack would go poorly with a geomancer, as it might disrupt the pack's bond for a while, but it'd be almost mandatory with a Huntmaster or Wolfborn. If she's a geomancer and one of the above, things get a bit tricky..." He frowns, thinking, then looks back at Nitro. "Do any of her pack speak language? And if so, which? Speaking Common, Sylvan, or Primordial would probably be my biggest clue if she's a combination of lupine archetypes. Common for Huntsmasters, Sylvan for Wolfborn, Primordial for a geomantic mix."

"None of the wolves spoke when I met Azurah, so if they have any tricks, they didn't share them with me. Got bit in the hindleg by a pup that thought I was prey though. Nasty teeth on that one."

[Fable Wright]

"None of the wolves spoke when I met Azurah, so if they have any tricks, they didn't share them with me. Got bit in the hindleg by a pup that thought I was prey though. Nasty teeth on that one."

Spirit nods. "Geomancer or a tight-lipped Huntmaster, then. Should adjust gait to Grizzly stance when meet with her and the pack. Thank you for the help. What do I owe you for this consultation?"

[McNum]

"Yes, I'll have one of our scribes magically send you a copy of the transcripts," Flare Star says.
"I'd appreciate it. Say, is it possible to make a magic copy of that journal, too? Our shaman thinks he can get something out of it, but he let me borrow it to show it to you all. He kind of wants it back after this."


Epee shook her head. "No. He was quite sickly when I saw him. Probably has at most a couple more days. I'm thinking somepony got to him before I did. Maybe the same pony that jumped me on my trip back."
Beryl feels a little bad about this. "That's... too bad. I mean he murdered several ponies, but... I still feel a little sorry for him. If he drank the same stuff he poisoned that crocodile with, then..." she thinks how Spirit described it earlier "...then it's some really, really ugly stuff. Great power and then your body just breaks down in horrible ways."

[DigoDragon]

Spirit nods. "Geomancer or a tight-lipped Huntmaster, then. Should adjust gait to Grizzly stance when meet with her and the pack. Thank you for the help. What do I owe you for this consultation?"

"Two silver for the copies and advice," Nitro replies.



"I'd appreciate it. Say, is it possible to make a magic copy of that journal, too? Our shaman thinks he can get something out of it, but he let me borrow it to show it to you all. He kind of wants it back after this."

Beryl feels a little bad about this. "That's... too bad. I mean he murdered several ponies, but... I still feel a little sorry for him. If he drank the same stuff he poisoned that crocodile with, then..." she thinks how Spirit described it earlier "...then it's some really, really ugly stuff. Great power and then your body just breaks down in horrible ways."

Flare Star gives the book to Epee. "Have the scribes make a quick copy of the pertinent stuff, if you would please?"

Epee takes the book. "Thank you sir." She looks to Beryl and Crossguard. "Anything else you want to add, or should we get this book copied?"

[Beacon of Chaos]

Ace nods. "Yep, ready as I'll ever be. Got all my spells for the day and my traveling books."
"Alright, the others will probably be on their way to the docks by now. See you later Ivy. Nice to meet you, Triss."

[One Tin Soldier]

"Annette?" Midnight asks. This certainly seems like the right unicorn. "I'm a friend of Rita's. She said that you could help me out with something."

[DigoDragon]

"Alright, the others will probably be on their way to the docks by now. See you later Ivy. Nice to meet you, Triss."

"Take care," Ivy replies. "And bring Ace back in one piece. He's a fragile little colt."

"Oh, uh, good to have meet you too, er, met you," Triss adds awkwardly. "Swing by next time you're in town."



"Annette?" Midnight asks. This certainly seems like the right unicorn. "I'm a friend of Rita's. She said that you could help me out with something."

"Sigh, Rita, if you sent me another wino landlu-" Annette sounded like she was going to roll into a rant, but once she sees Midnight, she straights up a little. "Huh, sorry about that. You look like a fairly competent and sober fellow. Friend of Rita's you say? Like... guild friend or, friend friend? Eh, nevermind, I shouldn't pry. What can I do for you?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit nods, and hands him the two silver. "With rates like that, then, let's hear about the options for expanding the curse you mentioned earlier. There's the curse-storm I suggested, to make larger areas of the universe hate him, but what were you going to suggest?"

[DigoDragon]

Spirit nods, and hands him the two silver. "With rates like that, then, let's hear about the options for expanding the curse you mentioned earlier. There's the curse-storm I suggested, to make larger areas of the universe hate him, but what were you going to suggest?"

"I'm a fan of voodoo myself. Targeted curse with no collateral. Granted it requires some time to set up, but one can't deny the effectiveness."

[Fable Wright]

"I'm a fan of voodoo myself. Targeted curse with no collateral. Granted it requires some time to set up, but one can't deny the effectiveness."

Spirit frowns a bit. "Voodoo is a sacred art of ancestor prayer and extremely precise blessing; perverting that... well, I'd not like to rile up those spirits that aid my spells. If you're talking about juju curses, I can see your angle, but those tend to have hidden costs. Laying one tends to mark you with a bit of splashback; you're lucky if you just end up with bad luck for a while, and if you do it too often... well, there's a reason most old Bòkônon are absolutely draped in amulets of curse protection themselves. What else do you have?"

[One Tin Soldier]

"Sigh, Rita, if you sent me another wino landlu-" Annette sounded like she was going to roll into a rant, but once she sees Midnight, she straights up a little. "Huh, sorry about that. You look like a fairly competent and sober fellow. Friend of Rita's you say? Like... guild friend or, friend friend? Eh, nevermind, I shouldn't pry. What can I do for you?"

How to say it? Midnight had never talked to smugglers before, but they probably weren't direct when doing their dealings. He couldn't just say straight out that he needed to get into the Tanari salt mines, could he?

"Me and my friends need to get into the Tanari salt mines. You know, without doing something worth getting thrown in." He clears his throat nervously. "It's kind of a long story, but Rita said you knew someone who could help?"

[DigoDragon]

"Transport of cargo to Tanari? Well, it'll go to Arendale if you want it there fast. Probably want to hire a team for the second leg. Come into the office to fill out the paperwork." The way Annette said that didn't sound quite like she was talking to Midnight. She pleasantly opened the office door and calmly ushered him inside.

Assuming Midnight enters, Annette closes the door and then the counter window for privacy. "Getting into the mine is easy. Getting out? Heh, that's the FUN part. You look like you can handle yourself though. Alright, two ways I can help you. The easy way is to disguise your group as the delivery team for the next food shipment. That'll get you in for... maybe an hour, hour twenty tops. You need more time, you do it the FUN way-- I forge you some prison papers, you get thrown in. Do your business, then we break you out with a forged pardon. Assuming no one sees through the papers, you get spring free without a fight."



Spirit frowns a bit. "Voodoo is a sacred art of ancestor prayer and extremely precise blessing; perverting that... well, I'd not like to rile up those spirits that aid my spells. If you're talking about juju curses, I can see your angle, but those tend to have hidden costs. Laying one tends to mark you with a bit of splashback; you're lucky if you just end up with bad luck for a while, and if you do it too often... well, there's a reason most old Bòkônon are absolutely draped in amulets of curse protection themselves. What else do you have?"

Nitro scratches his head. "Well, the only other thing I got is a scroll I won from a traveling gypsy. You cite the incantation and burn the parchment. Gotta do it upwind though. The smoke will seek out the names of who you want cursed, and blammo-- bad luck for the day. Favorite chair break, chip their tooth on lunch, come down with a nasty skin disease. That sort of stuff."

[One Tin Soldier]

"Transport of cargo to Tanari? Well, it'll go to Arendale if you want it there fast. Probably want to hire a team for the second leg. Come into the office to fill out the paperwork." The way Annette said that didn't sound quite like she was talking to Midnight. She pleasantly opened the office door and calmly ushered him inside.

Assuming Midnight enters, Annette closes the door and then the counter window for privacy. "Getting into the mine is easy. Getting out? Heh, that's the FUN part. You look like you can handle yourself though. Alright, two ways I can help you. The easy way is to disguise your group as the delivery team for the next food shipment. That'll get you in for... maybe an hour, hour twenty tops. You need more time, you do it the FUN way-- I forge you some prison papers, you get thrown in. Do your business, then we break you out with a forged pardon. Assuming no one sees through the papers, you get spring free without a fight."

"An hour, hour twenty..." Midnight thinks about it. "I don't know, how big is the place? We need to find two ponies in there, and I don't know how long that would take. Oh, and that's right, we would need a way to get them out, too."

[DigoDragon]

Frostbite and Ace make it to the docks. The place is busy in the usual way, with ships sailing for the day to fish or transport goods and ponies. Oddly, the dockmaster's building seems closed up. A little sign on the covered window reads 'Be back in whenever minutes'.


"An hour, hour twenty..." Midnight thinks about it. "I don't know, how big is the place? We need to find two ponies in there, and I don't know how long that would take. Oh, and that's right, we would need a way to get them out, too."

"You need to get two ponies out...? Then you probably want the hard way. It's a large compound, and unless you're the type to just go in swinging, you'll need to crawl through the mines a bit to find your targets," Annette says. She takes out a notebook and jots down some information. A few lines appear to be a description of Midnight. "Alright, I'll set you up to get smuggled in. Go to the town of Tanari and I'll have someone get you and a few friends smuggled in as 'temporary' prisoners. I'll make sure Rita is in on it. She'll probably meet you there."

"I will tell you, I've gotten ponies smuggled in and out a few times to get some information, but never to break out prisoners before. These two better be worth the trouble."

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frostbite and Ace make it to the docks. The place is busy in the usual way, with ships sailing for the day to fish or transport goods and ponies. Oddly, the dockmaster's building seems closed up. A little sign on the covered window reads 'Be back in whenever minutes'.
Frostbite finds a place to sit down and wait for the others. "Your friends seem nice," he says to Ace, mostly as a way to break the silence.

[DigoDragon]

Frostbite finds a place to sit down and wait for the others. "Your friends seem nice," he says to Ace, mostly as a way to break the silence.

"I guess they are," Ace replies. "Ivy is pretty friendly and all. Otto too, but he seems really shy around anyone he's not familair with. Triss is kind of... Triss."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"Heh, yeah, I noticed. Is it just you four learning at the library?"

I feel like this question has been answered before somewhere but I can't remember for the life of me. >_<

[One Tin Soldier]

Frostbite and Ace make it to the docks. The place is busy in the usual way, with ships sailing for the day to fish or transport goods and ponies. Oddly, the dockmaster's building seems closed up. A little sign on the covered window reads 'Be back in whenever minutes'.



"You need to get two ponies out...? Then you probably want the hard way. It's a large compound, and unless you're the type to just go in swinging, you'll need to crawl through the mines a bit to find your targets," Annette says. She takes out a notebook and jots down some information. A few lines appear to be a description of Midnight. "Alright, I'll set you up to get smuggled in. Go to the town of Tanari and I'll have someone get you and a few friends smuggled in as 'temporary' prisoners. I'll make sure Rita is in on it. She'll probably meet you there."

"I will tell you, I've gotten ponies smuggled in and out a few times to get some information, but never to break out prisoners before. These two better be worth the trouble."

"Trust me, they are," Midnight says determinedly. "And thank you for your help. It means a lot to us." He starts to head back out of the office, but pauses at the door. "Oh, and how will we know the pony in Tanari?"

[Fable Wright]

Nitro scratches his head. "Well, the only other thing I got is a scroll I won from a traveling gypsy. You cite the incantation and burn the parchment. Gotta do it upwind though. The smoke will seek out the names of who you want cursed, and blammo-- bad luck for the day. Favorite chair break, chip their tooth on lunch, come down with a nasty skin disease. That sort of stuff."

Spirit shrugs. "A nithing storm should be enough for my purposes, thank you." He pays off his tab with Nitro, takes the notes on his curse, collects his spider and refreshes her charms of warmth, and finally heads to the docks to reconvene with the party.

[DigoDragon]

"Heh, yeah, I noticed. Is it just you four learning at the library?"

Ace shakes his head slowly. "There are three others, but they travel often. Kind of like adventurers. They'll be gone for weeks to months at a time. They're all older and more experienced, so I guess Master Librarian sends them out on quests."



"Trust me, they are," Midnight says determinedly. "And thank you for your help. It means a lot to us." He starts to head back out of the office, but pauses at the door. "Oh, and how will we know the pony in Tanari?"

"That could be important to know," Annette says with a smirk. "Ask for Slately at the Squeaky Wheelbarrow tavern. Can't miss him, he'll be the pudgiest stallion there."



Spirit shrugs. "A nithing storm should be enough for my purposes, thank you." He pays off his tab with Nitro, takes the notes on his curse, collects his spider and refreshes her charms of warmth, and finally heads to the docks to reconvene with the party.

Spirit will see Frostbite and Ace standing outside the closed dockmaster's office chatting with one another.

[Beacon of Chaos]

Ace shakes his head slowly. "There are three others, but they travel often. Kind of like adventurers. They'll be gone for weeks to months at a time. They're all older and more experienced, so I guess Master Librarian sends them out on quests."
"Quests, huh? Do you know what kind? Back home, ponies would get sent out on quests by the elder council. We were never allowed to know what they were doing... Most never came back." Frost's ears fall at this. He wasn't on a quest, or at least not one he'd been given, but he wondered what had befallen those that had come before him.

[DigoDragon]

Around this time, Beryl and Crossguard will have arrived at the docks. The paladins have a copy of the book, and are looking into a few things they were told about.


"Quests, huh? Do you know what kind? Back home, ponies would get sent out on quests by the elder council. We were never allowed to know what they were doing... Most never came back." Frost's ears fall at this. He wasn't on a quest, or at least not one he'd been given, but he wondered what had befallen those that had come before him.

"Mmm, not sure. I'm not privy to the quests the Master Librarian sets the older students out to. Most of the time they come back with old tablets and journals filled with translations of ancient writing, so I guess a lot of it is looking for lost history? I don't know."

[One Tin Soldier]

"Right, got it," Midnight says. "Anything else we'll need to know?"

[DigoDragon]

"Right, got it," Midnight says. "Anything else we'll need to know?"

"No, not until you meet the contact. Remember-- Slately. Squeaky Wheelbarrow," the mare says. She continues to write some notes down and waves you away.

Midnight will find the gang outside the office when he exits.

[Fable Wright]

Spirit waves at Beryl and Crossguard as they approach. "Did you find anything at the Temple of the Sun? And did you keep the original copy of the book you borrowed? Ah, good. I've learned what I've set out to; I should probably be able to put a lasting curse on the owner of the prison, and also that Azurah is probably a geomancer living with a pack of wolves to read the flow of Equestria's energy and future. Any updates on Heliodor or the incompetent chief of police?"

[McNum]

"Hey Spirit!" Beryl says cheerfully. "Yep, we kept the book. But they did find it... very interesting. I bet that'll ruin somepony's day." She looks a little too amused at that idea. "As for Heliodor, we talked to somepony who was amazed that I got so much of Heliodor's legend right. He'll send me the full text magically, so that'll be a fun read. Apperently there's a way to tell if I'm him, but it would have taken several days, and we're in a hurry."

She looks a bit more downcast "Unfortunately, we couldn't get an army of Paladins to storm the mines. They actually suggested just buying them free, lecturing me about how there sometiimes isn't a good choice to make. In this case, letting evil 'win' and get paid off to save two ponies would be worth it." She sighs a bit "I don't like it... but I can't say I won't do it either if it comes down to it. I just didn't expect the Paladins to be the ones to suggest a bribe, you know?"

[One Tin Soldier]

"Right, you got it. I'll go find everyone else, and then we can get going."

Midnight walks out the door, only to stop with a look of surprise.

"Found them!"

"What are you guys doing here? I thought you were looking after your own leads."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"What are you guys doing here? I thought you were looking after your own leads."
"Been there, done that. What about you? Any new info?"

[DigoDragon]

As the party discussed the results of their morning endeavors, Ace wanders off to talk to a sailor. You can't hear what the conversation is about from this distance over the busy ambient noise, but the sailor seems to be cheerfully pointing at a decent-looking sailing ship several times. Ace seems a little scrutinizing, but agreeable to whatever the sailor is discussing.

You seem to notice a tingle of magic emanate from Ace's horn at one point when the sailor turns away to say something about the ship.

[Fable Wright]

Spirit excuses himself from the conversation as he sees Ace apparently looking for a ship, and quietly walks up behind and waits for a good moment to slip in a quiet word with Ace. When he does have a chance to get in a word without interrupting or letting the sailor overhear, he'll pull Ace over and speak quietly. "Can't imagine it's easy finding a ship willing to take on a giant spider. Getting an early edge was a good call, rather than sandbagging it until after a problem comes up. Quick warning, don't try that in Clan Henry territory. Being branded as evil spirits is the last thing we need."

[DigoDragon]

"Don't worry. Spider's coming," Ace whispers back.

Some more bartering back and forth, and Spirit witnesses Ace able to haggle the price down from 8 silver per pony to 7 silver and the spider travels for free. The concession is no private room, the group travels on deck, but as the trip is only four hours, it doesn't seem to be an unreasonable concession.

[One Tin Soldier]

"Been there, done that. What about you? Any new info?"

"Oh yeah, Annette here just got us hooked up with a way into... the place. And, you know, out. We'll need to talk to another pony in Tanari to actually get started." He looks around at all the other ponies around the dock. "You know what, I can give you the details later. But the main thing is that Rita's connection looks like it will work out."

"So if you guys are all done, will we be leaving now? And are we still going to see that diviner first?"

[McNum]

Beryl walks up to Spirit and Ace. "So, did you get us a boat? I'm looking forward to it, I've never really sailed before." She adds "Since you paid for breakfast, want me to pay for you here, Spirit?"

[Beacon of Chaos]

Beryl walks up to Spirit and Ace. "So, did you get us a boat? I'm looking forward to it, I've never really sailed before."
"Me neither! I'm excited! I want to see what kind of fish live in this ocean!"

[DigoDragon]

"I got a ship willing to drop us off at Nabru for 7 silver pieces a passenger. The spider gets on for free. We don't get a room though, just sit on deck for the trip," Ace explains.

"So, it's that ship over there. They leave in 10 minutes or something." The ship Ace points at is a small sailing ship fitted for transporting cargo more than passengers.

[Fable Wright]

Spirit shrugs at Beryl's question. "I am used to the nearest on hand picking up the tab. If you want to, go ahead. Likewise Crossguard or Midnight or Frostbite, or anyone who seeks to make friends." Then he realizes something. "Er, Ace, please try and stall the boat while I run back for the spider. I don't think I can get there, explain the necessity of speed in returning to the boat, and return within 10 minutes." With that, he dashes off to the inn, trying to hurridly ritual cast Speak with Animals along the way and retrieve the spider before the boat leaves.

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frostbite heads over to the boat, eager to get going. "I'm going to go get a spot at the front!" he calls to the others.

[McNum]

Frostbite heads over to the boat, eager to get going. "I'm going to go get a spot at the front!" he calls to the others.
Beryl can't help but smile at Frost's outburst. "That sounds like a fun idea, maybe I'll join you." she adds.

She walks up to the pony Ace was negotiating with and takes out one gold and four silver. "Hiya. I'm Beryl. I'll be paying for myself and our zebra friend. He... forgot his spider, he'll be right back." She hands over the money to the other pony. "If that spider causes trouble, call on the zebra or me to deal with it. We can both speak spider. The zebra is Spirit and the spider is Sheila, by the way."

[One Tin Soldier]

Midnight flies up over the ship, getting a good look at it before following Frost and Beryl onto the deck. "I've never even seen a ship up close before," he admits. "Looks a lot more complicated than just loading up and pushing a cloud. Less work, though."

[DigoDragon]

With that, he dashes off to the inn, trying to hurridly ritual cast Speak with Animals along the way and retrieve the spider before the boat leaves.

Spirit manages to find his way back and his spell is cast, but unfortunately the time it takes does eat up his window. Luckily, Sheila is sitting on a large web just outside the window, attempting to catch small birds in it. She notices the quick pace of the zebra and regards him with curiosity.



Frostbite heads over to the boat, eager to get going. "I'm going to go get a spot at the front!" he calls to the others.

The ship's bow had a few stacks of rope and the chains for the anchor. However there is still room enough to stand here for the trip. Frost can see that the crew is done packing the cargo and is now preparing the ship to leave.



She walks up to the pony Ace was negotiating with and takes out one gold and four silver. "Hiya. I'm Beryl. I'll be paying for myself and our zebra friend. He... forgot his spider, he'll be right back." She hands over the money to the other pony. "If that spider causes trouble, call on the zebra or me to deal with it. We can both speak spider. The zebra is Spirit and the spider is Sheila, by the way."

"Is your zebra going to be long? It is time to set sail," the sailor says, mentally counting the coins. "If he's not on in five, he is not on."



Midnight flies up over the ship, getting a good look at it before following Frost and Beryl onto the deck. "I've never even seen a ship up close before," he admits. "Looks a lot more complicated than just loading up and pushing a cloud. Less work, though."

"Feh, shows what you know," says a sailor who is busy trying some ropes and untying others with lightning speed.

Ace pays the sailor for his passage and climbs aboard. He sits up near the front and just watches the sailors do their thing preparing the ship.

[Jurai]

Crossguard boards the vessel. "Hopefully, this is a smooth voyage."

[Fable Wright]

Spirit waves at her. "Could you tie all the luggage in the room together and follow me? If we hurry, we can get on a box-home that was designed to funnel birds onto webs. We must hurry, though, or they leave without us."

When Sheila has gathered all of the party's left behind stuff, he gallops forward to lead her to the ships. Fortunately for all involved, the large pile of webbed-together luggage should make it look like a bizarre caravan rather than someone running for their life from a giant spider.

[DigoDragon]

With the party on board and the ship loaded, it was time to pull in the gangplank and set sail for Oh wait a zebra and giant spider are trying to get on board one sec okay phew nearly missed the boat! It was now time to set sail south toward Nabru. The weather was clear skies and the wind a cool, crisp feeling against fur. It was a quiet trip. Ace spent his time practicing his spells and watching the ocean waves. About halfway to your destination, a pod of dolphins swim alongside the ship for a little while, clicking and squeeing happily along the wake made by the vessel.

Nearly fours hours into the trip, you can see Nabru at the shoreline. It's a small town, with barely a harbor. Small fishing boats lined the shore and pier. Your ship finds a tight spot at the end of the longest pier, dropping ropes to tie itself down just long enough for passengers to disembark. "All ashore for Nabru if this is your stop! We're taking off in 15 for Midoor!"


Nabru is laid out like a horseshoe facing the bay. The marketplace is here by the piers and the outskirts is where you'll find the houses and farms. The central area is where your taverns, smiths, and general stores will be located. There is also a circular grove of trees where a bunch of very rough looking earth ponies are gathered, skinning and tanning game animals into hides for sale.

[McNum]

Beryl mostly enjoyed the trip. She's pretty sure she prefers the land, but sailing is fine, too. She only wishes she knew some sea shanties, not a whole lot of reason to learn those when all major bodies of water around your hometown are frozen glaciers.

She looks around, trying to see if there's any obvious way to go to find Azurah, but it's a strange town and there isn't a big sign saying "Azurah's Fortunes!" or something around as far as Beryl can tell.

Looking to Spirit she asks the obvious. "Any idea where to find her?"

Perception: Spooky Zebras? (Other than Spirit): [roll0]

[DigoDragon]

Perception: Spooky Zebras? (Other than Spirit): [5]

Beryl managed to catch sight of- no wait, that's Spirit. Well, nearby there was this one... no, that's Spirit again. How about that one colt looking at- wait, that's Ace. Not even a zebra. Okay, Beryl couldn't see anyone around with distinctive zebra-like qualities. Perhaps if she asked around?

[Jurai]

Crossguard stumbles off the boat, fine but slightly green around the gills. "Ugh. I think I'm not much for sailing." She says.

[Beacon of Chaos]

On the other hoof, Frostbite had thouroughly enjoyed his trip. Gazing out over the sea and watching the sailors work had taken his mind off his worries for a while. And now he was in an entirely new place looking for an entirely new pony- uh, zebra.

Well, if it's one thing he could say he was experienced in, it was looking for ponies. Surely that translates to zebras too?

Charisma to ask around town about Azurah. [roll0]. Add +2 if this counts as persuasion.

[DigoDragon]

"Ugh. I think I'm not much for sailing." She says.

Ace offers his canteen of water to Crossguard.



Well, if it's one thing he could say he was experienced in, it was looking for ponies. Surely that translates to zebras too?

Charisma to ask around town about Azurah. [roll0]. Add +2 if this counts as persuasion.

The rough-looking earth ponies know who Azurah is. She lives in a little cabin at the north end of town. She's a sweet old lady, often brings medicines for their families when they get sick.

[Jurai]

Crossguard shakes her head. "Thank you, Ace, but you'll need it. I have my own."

[Fable Wright]

As the boat pulled up to dock, he put down the tome of wrestling exercises and sighed. He likely wouldn't have a chance to practice these for a while yet. When Beryl asks where to find Azurah, he shrugs. "I was just going to follow my nose, but it couldn't hurt to ask around first."

When he heard Frostbite mention that she was a 'sweet old lady living to the north of town', he snorted derisively. "I'm skeptical, but I suppose it wouldn't hurt to look. Clan Henry is south of Nabru, Azurah is one of their strongest Shamans, and she hunts with wolves. Shamans often maintain distance from groups of ponies even if they're not wildborn, but I suppose it's possible she's maintaining the northernmost locus of Henry to the north." He shrugs. "We'll soon see." With that, he turns into a bear and begins rapidly loping off to the north where Azurah allegedly lives, keeping his nose open for the scent of wolves.

[roll0] Perception—Smelling for Wolves
[roll1] Bear Advantage

[DigoDragon]

Crossguard shakes her head. "Thank you, Ace, but you'll need it. I have my own."

Ace does this non-committed shrug and then follows Crossguard.



[roll0] Perception—Smelling for Wolves
[roll1] Bear Advantage

The first thing of note, is that ponies in this town don't seem to react as much to a sudden zebra-to-bear event as other towns had. And for the giant spider, most simply just give it a wide birth of space and go about their business, with no more than one glance.

Spirit does pick up wolf scents and follows them north into the farmlands. The trail stops at a sizable two-story log cabin. There are tanning racks, fletching tools, and archery targets around the cabin, indicating the resident(s) is probably a hunter. Off to the side there is a pack of wolves picking through the carcass of a cow. They see the party and get into defensive formation, protecting the cabin. Their growls and barks get the attention of a zebra in a dark green cloak from behind the cabin.

Spirit recognizes her as the same zebra at the tavern back in Basuto.

[Fable Wright]

Spirit smiles as he sheds his bear-form, though he keeps the bear's gait as he approaches the house. Keeps the wolves from biting.

With Azurah coming out, he waves a hoof. "Hello! I suppose I should have asked for a name last we met. Would have saved a trip. Shaman Azurah? We're here to investigate the revival, and blatant idiocy, of the Brotherhood or the Black Stallion. And preferably the story of how an alchemist political jockey wound up trying to perform a ritual trying to turn himself into either a lich-alicorn or a kraken, but I presume that stays secret until it becomes crucially relevant.

"Oh, and if you could provide any information facilitating the rescue of Snowsquall's presumed kids, that too would be much appreciated."

[One Tin Soldier]

Crossguard stumbles off the boat, fine but slightly green around the gills. "Ugh. I think I'm not much for sailing." She says.

Midnight lurches off the boat after Crossguard. "Oh, I never thought I'd be this glad to see dirt," he says. He had spent solidly half the journey leaning over the rails of the boat, and the other half nervously hovering over the deck. "You can all ride the stomach-churner again if you want, I'm just flying next time."


As they approach the cabin, he eyes the wolves cautiously, his rapier ready to draw.

[DigoDragon]

As they approach the cabin, he eyes the wolves cautiously, his rapier ready to draw.

The wolves stand their ground in front of the cabin, but seem to have some understanding that Midnight's 'pointy metal object' is business.

Also interesting, the wolf pack's anger seems mostly directed to Frostbite and Ace.



With Azurah coming out, he waves a hoof. "Hello! I suppose I should have asked for a name last we met. Would have saved a trip. Shaman Azurah? We're here to investigate the revival, and blatant idiocy, of the Brotherhood or the Black Stallion. And preferably the story of how an alchemist political jockey wound up trying to perform a ritual trying to turn himself into either a lich-alicorn or a kraken, but I presume that stays secret until it becomes crucially relevant.

"Oh, and if you could provide any information facilitating the rescue of Snowsquall's presumed kids, that too would be much appreciated."

The cloaked zebra mare shakes her head. "Afraid you're mistaken. I'm not Azurah, just her caretaker."

There's a guttural chuckle heard from the alpha female wolf. The large beast pads forward to Spirit and slowly transforms; fur unfolding and tearing, the sound of bones cracking and shifting about. It only lasts a moment, but felt like some time. Now, there is an aged and seasoned zebra mare standing in front of the party. She appeared to be in her early 50s, with silvery-blonde hair hanging like clumps of seaweed down her shoulders.

"I'm shaman Azurah. It's been a long time since anyone has said the name Snowsquall in my presence... who are you all to know so much about unwritten history?" She whiffs the air around the party and seems to hone in on Beryl.

"Snow? No... but maybe, yes..?"

[Fable Wright]

Spirit smiles, glad to finally see a familiar sight in the shifting. "The nameless librarian kept her journal in the public section of Basuto's library, and we found this among the corpses of the vapid assassins who broke into the Koldstone tomb." He fishes the Brotherhood journal out of his saddlebags and offers it to Azurah. "As for who we are... I would assume that we're an echo of your adventuring days, brought about by Valiance's tampering with Fate. We are the presumed grandson of Snowsquall," he points to Frostbite, "the reincarnation of Heliodor," pointing to Beryl, "a disciple of the nameless librarian, a guardian of dusk, a dragonblooded Paladin of a land I've never heard of, and a wandering spirit of the Moonbeam clan," pointing to Ace, Midnight, Crossguard, and himself in turn. "The nameless librarian advised us to come to you to make sense of all this."

[McNum]

Beryl expected a lot of things from Azurah. Being sniffed was not among them. She briefly wonders if it's a zebra thing or a shaman thing.

She adds "I'm trying to find out if I really am Heliodor, actually. I think I am, to be honest. At least after I talked to Flare Star in Basuto about it." She pauses for a moment, and continues "But until I'm sure, I don't want to claim that name. A legendary Paladin probably has legendary enemies."

"My name is Beryl. Apprentice baker and up and coming Paladin of the Ancients. Nice to meet you."

[DigoDragon]

Azurah wraps her hooves around Beryl and gives her a warm hug. "It is you, Snowsquall! Oh, how I've missed your grumpy face and constant lectures about Heliodor!" She turns to her 'caretaker' and waves her to the cabin.

"Rydia! Go prepare some tea and snacks for our guests. We have much to discuss today."

The younger zebra sighed. "Guru Azurah, how do you know they are not assassins?"

"Bah! Tea first, then they can try to kill me," the older zebra scoffs.

Rydia shakes her head and goes inside the cabin. The wolf pack senses that the party is now guests, and they back down, returning to their meal.


Azurah studies each of you in turn for a moment, sniffing around you. "I smell dragon's breath from the earth pony... honor from this paladin... breakfast from the dusk guardian? Huh. and..." She seems to stop at Ace and takes a second wiff. Azurah ponders something to say, but lets it go. Instead, she takes the book offered by Spirit and looks through it.

"Hmmm, some of this does look like it was copied from Valiance's work. Oh, wish they were not researching this. So, who is this nameless librarian?" the zebra asks of the party.

"Master Librarian," Ace answers. "I'm one of her students."

"Master? Oh, so it is Illia's scent I smelled upon you," Azurah states, sounding slightly insulted. "Calls herself Master Librarian, does she? Hmmph. Rydia!!"

The younger zebra appears at the doorway. "What is it, Guru Azurah?"

"From now on, I shall be known as Super Master Azurah," she declares.

"I don't think that-"

"No wait. Super Master Azurah Guru," Azurah corrects.

The younger zebra shakes her head again. "Can I just call you Guru Azura?"

"...Super Master Azurah Guru allows this."

Rydia heads back inside, and this time Azurah waves everyone to follow into the cabin. "Please, have a seat wherever it pleases you. You are here for my wisdom, and so wisdom you shall have."

The cabin inside is sparely decorated. There are no chairs or tables in the living room. Only the hearth, several intricately patterned woven blankets hanging off the walls, a couple wolf paintings, and dozens upon dozens of warm rugs made from various deer, buffalo, sheep, and cow. The kitchen was separated by one of the hanging blankets and it appears to have more of the modern conveniences of a couple chairs, a stove, counter-tops, and other implements useful for cooking.

There is a pot of water being heated over the active hearth right now. Presumably this will be for the tea.

[McNum]

As Super Master Guru Azurah heads in, Beryl is making a pouty face protesting quietly. "...I am not grumpy."

She then follows SMGA into the cabin. Tea does sound nice about now.

[Fable Wright]

Slightly miffed that he didn't get a comment from the sage, Spirit trots into Azurah's residence. When he spies the kettle for tea, he feels a sudden desire to see if she's got an insect cupboard as well—at least until he remembers that Sheila's parked outside, and would probably take some umbrage at him eating other spiders. After all, she wasn't a jumping spider. Still... "Er-hrm. Shaman, I don't suppose you know of a location where I could park my giant spider? Preferably somewhere with a high population of arborous rodents, birds, or cattle?" He pauses for a moment, deliberating. "And do you, perchance, have any stocks of centipedes on hand?"


[roll0]+[roll1] Do such things as arborous cattle exist in this setting? I presume not, but this is fantasy Florida we're talking about. One can really never be sure.

[One Tin Soldier]

As Super Master Guru Azurah heads in, Beryl is making a pouty face protesting quietly. "...I am not grumpy."

She then follows SMGA into the cabin. Tea does sound nice about now.

"Well, at least now you have someone to back up your crazy. Even if her cloud's a bit crooked too." He smiles as he says it. Something about the old zebra really speaks to the colt.

[DigoDragon]

As Super Master Guru Azurah heads in, Beryl is making a pouty face protesting quietly. "...I am not grumpy."

She then follows SMGA into the cabin. Tea does sound nice about now.

Near Beryl was a little wolf pup chewing on a bone. It stops momentarily to look curiously upon the visitors, and then resumes its chewing.



Slightly miffed that he didn't get a comment from the sage, Spirit trots into Azurah's residence. When he spies the kettle for tea, he feels a sudden desire to see if she's got an insect cupboard as well—at least until he remembers that Sheila's parked outside, and would probably take some umbrage at him eating other spiders. After all, she wasn't a jumping spider. Still... "Er-hrm. Shaman, I don't suppose you know of a location where I could park my giant spider? Preferably somewhere with a high population of arborous rodents, birds, or cattle?" He pauses for a moment, deliberating. "And do you, perchance, have any stocks of centipedes on hand?"

Azurah looks up at the giant spider and scritches it behind where perhaps would be an ear. Sheila seems confused by this and leans away. "Park a giant spider? Oh, because she's large like a carriage! One that would drag her occupants behind in a web cocoon. No downside either! Worry not, little bear, your spider companion can roam outside wherever she wishes. She only has natural predators to worry about out here."

She shoos the spider to roam free a while and then meanders over to one of the hanging curtains. Pulling it back, you see it's an alcove shelved with many glass jars of insects and tiny vermin. Azurah sticks a hoof in one jar and lets the insects climb up her leg. She then comes back and presents it to Spirit. "Here you go, little bear. Take your pick. The brown ones are out of season, but still good."



[roll0]+[roll1] Do such things as arborous cattle exist in this setting? I presume not, but this is fantasy Florida we're talking about. One can really never be sure.

No arborous cattle exist, but the local area has lots of rodent type critters in burrows and barns that can be caught.


"Well, at least now you have someone to back up your crazy. Even if her cloud's a bit crooked too." He smiles as he says it. Something about the old zebra really speaks to the colt.

Azurah finds a spot to sit down and relax. "So what can an old mare like me teach a bear and some young pups today?"

[Fable Wright]

Azurah sticks a hoof in one jar and lets the insects climb up her leg. She then comes back and presents it to Spirit. "Here you go, little bear. Take your pick. The brown ones are out of season, but still good."

"Oh, thank you!" Spirit brushes the brown ones off into a cup, which he quickly lids with his hoof. "Waste not, after all."


Azurah finds a spot to sit down and relax. "So what can an old mare like me teach a bear and some young pups today?"

"We came here for any information you could give us on the Valiance incident, why the Brotherhood of the Black Stallion seems to be shedding its incompetents into a subfaction that's trying to bring back a failed lich-alicorn-kraken, any ideas on how we can rescue Snowsquall's kids (currently held up north in the Tanari salt mines), and I'd personally be interested in—" Spirit stops as Frostbite pushes him out of the way, bemused, before belatedly following up with "...in some kind of totem to 'break down' one large form change into a bunch of less powerful form changes to last for longer. But that last one can wait a while."

[McNum]

Beryl listens to Spirit's line of questions, but adds. "Wait... This is all so confusing... Maybe we should start from the top?" She thinks for a bit. "We do need to find out who Frostbite's parents are. It's hard to rescue them when we only have their pictures."

Slowly Beryl's thoughts start to make a coherent image, and she suddenly has a flash of inspiration. "Wait, I just... I think I got it!" Beryl notices she raised her voice a bit. "Sorry, I just noticed we have many of the pieces to put that 'unwritten history' together now."

She clears her throat "I'll admit, this is going to be a little of a wild guess, but... I think I see it now. We've been following the steps of, and meeting with, a group of adventurers who's settled down, more or less. Illiya, Flare Star, Snowsquall, Azurah... and Valiance. I don't know the details, but Valiance did something, something really bad and turned on the group. Since Spirit told me he was trying to be... a lich? It was probably something like that. He was killed, and the group split up, taking a body part with them, so nopony could, well, put him back together again."

"And that's where the Brotherhood of the Black Stallion comes into everything. Because they're trying to do just that. And they already got the part from the Koldstone Barrows. We defeated the guardian they left behind and broke a terrible curse on the town. Then we came here after talking to Illiya and Flare Star about it, and getting ambushed by some very gloaty Brotherhood types who told us that they sold Frostbite's parents to the Tanari Salt Mines."

Beryl then connects the dots. "Snowsquall... must have died about nineteen years ago. And I'd guess that was in stopping Valiance. Seems like a Heliodor thing to do."

"I am sorry if I got any of that wrong, or if it digs up some bad memories." she adds "But I think that covers what we know of the past. I wish this Heliodor thing was working right for me. I could probably remember some of it if it hadn't been broken..."

As a test, Beryl prods her inner foal, with a very specific request.

Knowledge (Heliodor) - "Snowsquall", anything you've got: [roll0]

[Jurai]

Crossguard smiles. An unusual mare, to be sure, but also wise and experienced. "Thank, Super Master Azurah Guru." She says. "I'm also concerned what this Valiance character was trying to do."

[Beacon of Chaos]

"We are the presumed grandson of Snowsquall," he points to Frostbite,
Frostbite waves.


Azurah wraps her hooves around Beryl and gives her a warm hug. "It is you, Snowsquall! Oh, how I've missed your grumpy face and constant lectures about Heliodor!
Frost snickers. "Oh, you're never gonna hear the end of this, Gramps."


"We came here for any information you could give us on the Valiance incident, why the Brotherhood of the Black Stallion seems to be shedding its incompetents into a subfaction that's trying to bring back a failed lich-alicorn-kraken, any ideas on how we can rescue Snowsquall's kids (currently held up north in the Tanari salt mines), and I'd personally be interested in-"
At this point Frostbite literally pushes Spirit out of the way and holds up the faded picture. "They look like this ma'am. They're my parents. Any information you can give us would be helpful."

[DigoDragon]

Knowledge (Heliodor) - "Snowsquall", anything you've got: [5]

"He... liked peanut butter?"


Azurah let out a sigh. It felt like the kind of breath following an old wound opening up. "Allow me to tell the full story, before you rewrite history again," she says.

Many years ago, there was a young unicorn apprentice full of dreams. She was book smart, but not yet learned of the ways the world can be cruel. She traveled to a small clan of barbarians looking for knowledge on how to survive out in the wilds of civilization outside her tower. Her name was Illia Stratton, and she had made her first friend in clan Henry-- a young and somewhat naive zebra druid named Azurah.

We had several adventures together, eventually building our ranks to six:

Penny Dale, the roguish daughter of the once mercantile giant Lord Glen Dale. She had named our little club the Ring Tails.
Snowsquall Lionheart, the old grump paladin of the Invisible Pink Unicorn and half-dragon offspring of the white dragon Erebus.
Triton Southstar, a former pirate who sailed much of the seas in and outside the Fetloch area.
and Valiance the Gray, a... curious cleric of the Eye of Catrina cult.

[Azurah pauses a moment after describing Valiance]

Flare Star wasn't a member of our group. More like our part-time jailer. Illia and I used to get into so much trouble that we both had spent more than a few nights behind bars thanks to that cranky old goat. Anyway, in one of our travels, our group had stumbled upon the machinations of a unicorn named Samson that was looking to transform himself into a true alicorn. He experimented on homeless ponies he... acquired through the help of two of his associates, known only as Death Lord Yamato and Lady Bubblegum. It was the most difficult quest in our lives, to uncover evidence of his actions and bring him to justice. We were able to destroy Lady Bubblegum near Oldenburg, and indeed we had also slain Samson in Arendale, but the death lord escaped us.

Illia had the idea of cutting up Samson, and scattering his remains in six different tombs. We even built traps into them, and each of us gave a bit of ourselves to seal summoned guardians in order to ensure those body parts were never recovered. We had done it, we had succeeded in the greatest test of our lives. Or, so we had thought.

See, watching from afar was a crafty old dragon named Erebus. She was secretly watching, for she was doing experiments of her own-- creating half-dragons offspring. Snowsquall was one of her most successful progeny, long before we had met him, and she did not like that he had become a force of light. It was too warm for the dragon's cold heart. Snow rebuked her offers of power many times, but while Snow was strong-willed, Valiance was not. The cleric was enticed with profound knowledge of life and death that Erebus had to offer. We aren't sure what the end-goal was between their collaborations, but Illia would have none of it.

Maybe we were too rash in our actions. We had killed Valiance before he ever had a chance to explain, and... the infighting over whether we did right was too much. Our friendships broke apart and the little family I had went their separate ways. I tried to keep in touch, but... years do a number on the body and mind eventually.

[Azurah pulls a small parchment out of a scroll case under her rug]

I remained with Clan Henry, my birth home. Penny moved to Arendale and vanished, much as she liked to do. I suppose she's living a quiet life as a... gold miner or something she used to call it. Triton went back to sailing. Haven't heard from him since his last voyage ten years ago. Perhaps the sea finally claimed him? Snowsquall continued to search for the death lord that escaped us. I traveled with him on a few adventures, but ultimately it was fruitless. He died in a fire rescuing children from a church in Arendale. And Illia... well, she settled down in Basuto. I suppose you know the rest of her story. I guess... she was the one to tell you of me. I'm glad she at least remembers... that much of us.

[Azurah pauses to fight back tears. You can tell there was something more than friendship between her and Illia]

Well, that's the real story. Illia burned everything we could find of Valiance's work with Erebus. It did have something to do with powerful necromancy. Maybe creating a lich. However, Erebus was never confronted, so she may have copies. Maybe that's what the Brotherhood is after-- Erebus' copy of the work Valiance did. Though, I'm not sure why they want the body parts of Samson. That is... unrelated. Unless they want to resurrect Samson as a lich? Hmm, maybe, but the Brotherhood never had ties to Samson. They were just a small group of assassins. Competent back then, but after their leadership was killed by some other group of adventurers they seemed to have disappeared completely. The group you speak of now I have heard some things through Flare Star and they are certainly NOT the same group. Copy cats at best.

On the subject of progeny, I remember that Snowsquall did have a daughter out of wedlock. Snow did love the mare who gave him the child, but for a paladin like Snow, love was second to his oath of finding the death lord. The daughter looked as a pony, far as I could see, but I'm sure the blood of an ice dragon flowed through her veins as it did her father. I believe her name was Icewind. I'm sorry, I never did keep track of her. Maybe your presumed grandson of Snowsquall is indeed the genuine article. That image of your mother does bear a resemblance to Icewind. Well, keep in mind she was just a little one when I saw her.

[Azurah has mostly recovered from memory lane, but there are wounds there that will never heal]

[Fable Wright]

Spirit massaged his temples as he heard the story, especially around the part about killing Valiance.

"So... let me get this straight.

"Illia the Diviner found out that one of her five best friends in the world was experimenting with life and death. She doesn't try to divine what the purpose of those experiments were or their possible consequences. Instead she brought her marefriend to an assassination. Afterwards, none of you bothered to cast Speak With Dead to get some answers, and raising or reincarnating this potentially innocent scientist and definite friend never crossed any of your minds. This... regrettably sounds like the Illia we know, but no one else pointed this out with a friend's life and afterlife in mind?

"There's also this odd sticking point of why Illia was so against Valiance that she wouldn't bother to hear him out. Did she have some prior history with Erebus? What did Snow think of his mother, and did he try to reason with Illia? And why would Snow refuse reincarnation when his quest to stop the deathlord never ended?"

Spirit furrows his brow.

"And then there's the matter of the Brotherhood... okay. Let me recap what we know, and throw out prior assumptions.

"What we know is that the Brotherhood of the Black Stallion has reinvented itself very recently, from the mind of the spawn we interrogated. We know that they seek to serve a 'Master', that presumably is running a cult of personality at this point instead of a cult of assassins. They are treating their undead spawns as experiments. They have access to highly advanced combat poisons based heavily on Valiance's work, and are seeking the blood of magical earth ponies but not unicorns and pegusi. They seek the body parts of Samson, who managed to fuse unicorn and pegasus magic sufficient enough to give himself wings. We know the head of the cult, the 'Master', is male, dormant, and is in need of magical earth pony blood as part of an effort to revive himself. Additionally, he seeks the death of Solaria, and dominion over Elysium. Finally, the cultists have an obsession with finding coins of the Black Stallion, to the point of abandoning all prior orders to go after them. These coins apparently cause an apparition of some variety to manifest.

"This points to a very fractured narrative that I'm not sure I comprehend.

"Presumably, the cultists seek to complete Samson's transformation into the Alicorn, using the blood of magic earth ponies to add the ingredient he was missing. They seek the remains of Samson to bootstrap those parts of the transformation that he did complete. This lines up well from narratives and motives. The real question here is 'for what purpose?'

"Apparently, this complete alicorn transformation will enable the 'Master' of the cult, some kind of slumbering or dead being who... seized control of the cult in his sleep, I guess? Doesn't seem that hard, given their current state. Regardless, he set them to task on gathering a resurrection spell and is... apparently experimenting on living-to-undead transformations on cultists, again, while still in his sleep. I get the feeling we're missing something here, but I don't know what.

"Finally, there's one last thing that doesn't add up. The Brotherhood has access to advanced potion-making based off Valiance's work. This indicates some tie to Erebus, who would have extra copies of the notes. The life and death transmutations that the cult is experimenting with—that sounds similar to the information Erebus gave to Valiance to start his research, and the experimentation itself sounds like Erebus's style, from your description. Erebus is strongly tied into this narrative of the new Brotherhood somehow, and yet... she isn't the Master. She has no problems with waking or mobility, has ovaries, and would be unable to seize control of Elysium due to her non-pony nature."
He frowns, thinking.

"Limiting our information to only known actors... tell me everything you know about Death Lord Yamato, and any progress Snowsquall shared on his quest to take this being down. If Erebus was aware of his involvement in the Samson incident, a partnership between them sounds likely. He likes money, she has a dragon's hoard. She likes unscrupulous mercenaries, he kidnapped homeless people and calls himself Death Lord Yamato. Sounds like a match made in Baaator to me. Azurah, does his profile fit the image of the 'Master' that we have pieced together so far?"

[DigoDragon]

"Illia the Diviner found out that one of her five best friends in the world was experimenting with life and death. She doesn't try to divine what the purpose of those experiments were or their possible consequences. Instead she brought her marefriend to an assassination. Afterwards, none of you bothered to cast Speak With Dead to get some answers, and raising or reincarnating this potentially innocent scientist and definite friend never crossed any of your minds. This... regrettably sounds like the Illia we know, but no one else pointed this out with a friend's life and afterlife in mind?"

Azurah lets out another pained sigh. "Snowsquall would say that Illia was too lenient with Valiance, little bear. Please try to understand-- Divination is not simply knowing what is or will be. The future is a coursing river full of flotsam, and a diviner only sees possible paths from their point of view. A diviner cannot see paths blocked by the debris, or ones veiled by a great dragon."

Rydia already has the cups, tea leaves, and snacks out for everyone. She pours the hot water and passes cups around to everyone. The snacks are an assortment of various things; softened hardtack, sticks of insect pate', jellied fruit spread over bread...


"There's also this odd sticking point of why Illia was so against Valiance that she wouldn't bother to hear him out. Did she have some prior history with Erebus? What did Snow think of his mother, and did he try to reason with Illia? And why would Snow refuse reincarnation when his quest to stop the deathlord never ended?"

"You do not know my friends as I did, so I can forgive your lack of understanding," Azurah says. She adjusts her position and drops some leaves into her cup. "We came from vastly different cultures. Illia is from the ivory towers of old Thaumasia, and strongly believed that there was some knowledge only the old Unicornia blood was meant to guard. Snowsquall preached that trying to control the cycle of life and death was a perversion of nature. Valiance believed that no law of nature was immutable or untouchable. Life, death, the world, it all followed formula and it was a prerogative to understand such things in the interest of knowledge. Or beliefs were warm and cold fronts, and it was only a matter of time until the thunder of a storm grew between us."

"To answer your first point, it was actually Snowsquall that sowed the first seeds against Valiance. Creating a zombie or skeleton was one small matter. A minor quibble in the cycle of life that Snow often turned the other cheek over. But whatever Valiance and Erebus were working on... that was an affront to the gods, or so Snow would say. He hated Erebus with a passion, and whatever she was working on with Valiance, Snow was sure it would only bring ruin to Fetloch. Illia was convinced of this, and the two plotted to slay Valiance before the project was completed. I did not know the whole picture, but I trusted Illia's judgement implicitly. That decision was all my own and I must live with it. Penny and Triton put up a greater argument to first understand what Erebus was building with this knowledge, but perhaps... if we waited it might have been too late to do anything about it. Valiance's loyalty was completely ensnared by Erebus. To Snow and Illia, there was no reasoning with him anymore. He was but a puppet of the dragon. As for Snow refusing reincarnation... well, he never did."

Azurah glances fondly over at Beryl.


"And then there's the matter of the Brotherhood... okay. Let me recap what we know, and throw out prior assumptions.
"What we know is that the Brotherhood of the Black Stallion has reinvented itself very recently, from the mind of the spawn we interrogated. We know that they seek to serve a 'Master', that presumably is running a cult of personality at this point instead of a cult of assassins. They are treating their undead spawns as experiments. They have access to highly advanced combat poisons based heavily on Valiance's work, and are seeking the blood of magical earth ponies but not unicorns and pegusi. They seek the body parts of Samson, who managed to fuse unicorn and pegasus magic sufficient enough to give himself wings. We know the head of the cult, the 'Master', is male, dormant, and is in need of magical earth pony blood as part of an effort to revive himself. Additionally, he seeks the death of Solaria, and dominion over Elysium. Finally, the cultists have an obsession with finding coins of the Black Stallion, to the point of abandoning all prior orders to go after them. These coins apparently cause an apparition of some variety to manifest.

"This points to a very fractured narrative that I'm not sure I comprehend.

"Presumably, the cultists seek to complete Samson's transformation into the Alicorn, using the blood of magic earth ponies to add the ingredient he was missing. They seek the remains of Samson to bootstrap those parts of the transformation that he did complete. This lines up well from narratives and motives. The real question here is 'for what purpose?'

"Apparently, this complete alicorn transformation will enable the 'Master' of the cult, some kind of slumbering or dead being who... seized control of the cult in his sleep, I guess? Doesn't seem that hard, given their current state. Regardless, he set them to task on gathering a resurrection spell and is... apparently experimenting on living-to-undead transformations on cultists, again, while still in his sleep. I get the feeling we're missing something here, but I don't know what.

"Finally, there's one last thing that doesn't add up. The Brotherhood has access to advanced potion-making based off Valiance's work. This indicates some tie to Erebus, who would have extra copies of the notes. The life and death transmutations that the cult is experimenting with—that sounds similar to the information Erebus gave to Valiance to start his research, and the experimentation itself sounds like Erebus's style, from your description. Erebus is strongly tied into this narrative of the new Brotherhood somehow, and yet... she isn't the Master. She has no problems with waking or mobility, has ovaries, and would be unable to seize control of Elysium due to her non-pony nature."

"Perhaps the Brotherhood is just a front. A herring most red to cover the true plot of this 'Master'? Or perhaps this new Brotherhood is trying to resurrect an old leader, rebuild the glory of the old assassins. I wish I knew more of this, but I have only recently become aware of it. The best course of action I would say, is to acquire one of the body parts, to ensure the cult does not complete that objective."


"Limiting our information to only known actors... tell me everything you know about Death Lord Yamato, and any progress Snowsquall shared on his quest to take this being down. If Erebus was aware of his involvement in the Samson incident, a partnership between them sounds likely. He likes money, she has a dragon's hoard. She likes unscrupulous mercenaries, he kidnapped homeless people and calls himself Death Lord Yamato. Sounds like a match made in Baaator to me. Azurah, does his profile fit the image of the 'Master' that we have pieced together so far?"

Azurah seems hesitant to answer at first. "Well... The death lord could be this 'Master' you speak of. He was a vile creature, perverse and enamored with death. He felt necromancy in the way I feel my inner wolf, or you your inner spider. That's all he truly cares for-- to master death itself. Perhaps to become death. If Erebus and Valiance's project was to create a lich, then I could easily see the death lord wanting such knowledge. I doubt he and Erebus could work together. Both are selfish creatures and would destroy each other if they made contact."

"Alas, Illia would know more of the project, but she was determined to root it out of existence. We can only speculate.""

[McNum]

Beryl has been listening closely. She does love a good story time. She is also sort of berating her inner foal for being kind of useless in confirming any of this, but what can you do?

"I'm doing what I can here!"

She sips from the tea and tries to think of something to say. "So... I'm Frostbite's grandfather? Or... at least I share a soul with him?" She feels kind of caught on the wrong hoof with this revelation. Although she does see it as something useful for later, maybe. At the very least introducing herself as somepony's grandpa would be funny.

"It's nice to be so welcomed, like an old friend, but... I am sorry." she continues "I don't remember any of it. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to, I have a little foal inside my mind who told me that something went wrong with the reincarnation and I should be remembering a lot more than I am." She points to Spirit "Spirit here actually spoke with it using some shaman thing. I have no idea how, though. Ask him." She smiles a bit "Maybe you know what to ask to make it remember things."

"All I really know is what I was told in a dream. That I carry Heliodor's spirit, and that I'm supposed to visit the Dusk Temple in Arendale, but not really why. Did Snowsquall go there? Maybe he left a message to the next one? I bet he didn't expect that to be a crystal mare baker. I sure didn't expect to be an ancient Paladin reborn, at least."

Beryl thinks what else to say... "Oh, speaking of baking, I can't help but notice that the... recipe the Brotherhood is using to build an undead pony or whatever they want to do with Samson's parts includes both wings and a horn. Are they baking an alicorn surprise? Was Samson one?"

[DigoDragon]

She sips from the tea and tries to think of something to say. "So... I'm Frostbite's grandfather? Or... at least I share a soul with him?" She feels kind of caught on the wrong hoof with this revelation. Although she does see it as something useful for later, maybe. At the very least introducing herself as somepony's grandpa would be funny.

"You and Snowsquall are one and the same soul, reincarnating directly from body to body. Souls normally journey for a time before being made anew, but yours is something older and greater."



"It's nice to be so welcomed, like an old friend, but... I am sorry." she continues "I don't remember any of it. I'm not sure if I'm supposed to, I have a little foal inside my mind who told me that something went wrong with the reincarnation and I should be remembering a lot more than I am." She points to Spirit "Spirit here actually spoke with it using some shaman thing. I have no idea how, though. Ask him." She smiles a bit "Maybe you know what to ask to make it remember things."

Azurah thinks a bit, and gives a small nod. "Maybe I can help, if you're willing to stay and learn some meditation techniques. Snow often said he could... oh how did you put it? Er, he put it? 'Channel his past selves' with meditation, though its reliability varied. I'm sure as you grow in experience, you will unlock more of your memories."



"All I really know is what I was told in a dream. That I carry Heliodor's spirit, and that I'm supposed to visit the Dusk Temple in Arendale, but not really why. Did Snowsquall go there? Maybe he left a message to the next one? I bet he didn't expect that to be a crystal mare baker. I sure didn't expect to be an ancient Paladin reborn, at least."

"Ah, the Dusk temple. In... Arendale..." Azurah thinks of how to break this news. "That was the place... the great fire that you, um, that Snow died within saving all those children. Perhaps you have unfinished business there."



Beryl thinks what else to say... "Oh, speaking of baking, I can't help but notice that the... recipe the Brotherhood is using to build an undead pony or whatever they want to do with Samson's parts includes both wings and a horn. Are they baking an alicorn surprise? Was Samson one?"

"Samson tried to become an alicorn. Transcend mortality by becoming a greater divine being. He was once a unicorn. What we confronted was... something more and less a unicorn," Azurah explains. She shivers a little, as if thinking about what Samson looked like was nauseating. "Lesson learned the hard way-- you cannot become a divine with mortal magic."

[Fable Wright]

"You do not know my friends as I did, so I can forgive your lack of understanding," Azurah says. She adjusts her position and drops some leaves into her cup. "We came from vastly different cultures. Illia is from the ivory towers of old Thaumasia, and strongly believed that there was some knowledge only the old Unicornia blood was meant to guard. Snowsquall preached that trying to control the cycle of life and death was a perversion of nature. Valiance believed that no law of nature was immutable or untouchable. Life, death, the world, it all followed formula and it was a prerogative to understand such things in the interest of knowledge. Or beliefs were warm and cold fronts, and it was only a matter of time until the thunder of a storm grew between us."

"...The world wouldn't exist without the creation of the firmament of worlds by the Primordial Lich-Kings, the reckless creation of life by the First Archdruids, or the mad strictures of the Draconequui imposing the first order upon unshaped creation. Why would studying and recreating their work be against the natural order?" Spirit looked deeply confused.


"To Snow and Illia, there was no reasoning with him anymore. He was but a puppet of the dragon."

Spirit once again rubbed his temples. "In the event that Valiance can help stop Erebus post-mortem, mind telling us where you buried him?"


"Perhaps the Brotherhood is just a front. A herring most red to cover the true plot of this 'Master'? Or perhaps this new Brotherhood is trying to resurrect an old leader, rebuild the glory of the old assassins. I wish I knew more of this, but I have only recently become aware of it. The best course of action I would say, is to acquire one of the body parts, to ensure the cult does not complete that objective."

Spirit glances at his notes. "Hm. You've got the... hoof, in the south, by the Noruge swamp? That's one artifact the Brotherhood won't be getting. What next?"


Azurah seems hesitant to answer at first. "Well... The death lord could be this 'Master' you speak of. He was a vile creature, perverse and enamored with death. He felt necromancy in the way I feel my inner wolf, or you your inner spider. That's all he truly cares for-- to master death itself. Perhaps to become death. If Erebus and Valiance's project was to create a lich, then I could easily see the death lord wanting such knowledge. I doubt he and Erebus could work together. Both are selfish creatures and would destroy each other if they made contact."

"Alas, Illia would know more of the project, but she was determined to root it out of existence. We can only speculate.""

Spirit sighed. "Suppose, just for a moment, that the Death Lord is leading the cult, and he does wish to take control of Elysium. Solaria is coming to Arendale in under a week's time in the middle of a festival that will make her guards' jobs very very difficult. Not having an MO, possible capacities if he is crippled, an appearance to watch for, signature or identifying powers, or an assessment of his charisma as relates to the probability that he does lead the cult is going to make things very difficult. So... in the event of a worst-case scenario, could you give us a combat briefing for Yamato?"


"Samson tried to become an alicorn. Transcend mortality by becoming a greater divine being. He was once a unicorn. What we confronted was... something more and less a unicorn," Azurah explains. She shivers a little, as if thinking about what Samson looked like was nauseating. "Lesson learned the hard way-- you cannot become a divine with mortal magic."

"...Provably false in the case of liches, archdruids, and some scattered exemplars and dragons. That's half the divine wheel, straight up."

[DigoDragon]

"...The world wouldn't exist without the creation of the firmament of worlds by the Primordial Lich-Kings, the reckless creation of life by the First Archdruids, or the mad strictures of the Draconequui imposing the first order upon unshaped creation. Why would studying and recreating their work be against the natural order?" Spirit looked deeply confused.

Azurah let out a little chuckle. "Oh, if I had a kiss every time I asked that very question to Illia, I'd be a mother of six. You'll some day come to understand that yours is not the only true belief," Azurah explains. "As I mentioned, we come from vastly different cultures, each one interpreting the world creation differently. You and I see no wrong in the study of the Titans of Creation, but others fear that such experimentation could undo the world forge. Well if that were true, we'd have unmade ourselves generations ago."


Spirit once again rubbed his temples. "In the event that Valiance can help stop Erebus post-mortem, mind telling us where you buried him?"

"We buried him in an unmarked grave just outside the little village of Exmoor. Strange as he was, he at least had a love for the beauty of a swamp willow."


Spirit glances at his notes. "Hm. You've got the... hoof, in the south, by the Noruge swamp? That's one artifact the Brotherhood won't be getting. What next?"

Azurah nods. "Yeah, the hoof is there. Buried under layers of stone to protect it from prying magical 'eyes'. I don't think even Illia knows where that one is. As for what's next? Hmm..." The guru ponders the question a moment.

"I suppose I should take a light nap before delivering some medicines to the Henry clan."



Spirit sighed. "Suppose, just for a moment, that the Death Lord is leading the cult, and he does wish to take control of Elysium. Solaria is coming to Arendale in under a week's time in the middle of a festival that will make her guards' jobs very very difficult. Not having an MO, possible capacities if he is crippled, an appearance to watch for, signature or identifying powers, or an assessment of his charisma as relates to the probability that he does lead the cult is going to make things very difficult. So... in the event of a worst-case scenario, could you give us a combat briefing for Yamato?"

"Well... he's never without an entourage of the undead. I suppose mindless creatures are the only kind of friends that'll tolerate him. He'll have at least one intelligent creature direct his forces. He's good at delegation. The death lord himself is quite an adversary. He likes to get all 'touchy-feely' and pull at the strings of your soul like one undoes a cross-stitch. I'd advise not getting too close to him. Triton nearly lost a leg in melee with him. Well, he did lose a leg, but her got better. I'm still missing a rib though. Not my favorite rib, but, you know. Still."

"Bolster your defenses against necromancy and don't be afraid to avoid him if you don't think you are prepared. As Penny used to say, there's no shame in bailing. Well, there is if you don't take your friends with you, but other than that. No shame."


"...Provably false in the case of liches, archdruids, and some scattered exemplars and dragons. That's half the divine wheel, straight up."

"Well, if your endgame is simply a perpetual lifespan and greater understanding of the world as it is, then yes, that is correct. True divinity is much more than that however."

[Fable Wright]

"You and I see no wrong in the study of the Titans of Creation, but others fear that such experimentation could undo the world forge. Well if that were true, we'd have unmade ourselves generations ago."

[roll0] Know: Religion?


"I suppose I should take a light nap before delivering some medicines to the Henry clan."

"Don't stress about it, relax at the festival, and then save lives when everything goes wrong then. Sounds like sane enough advise, after we deal with the Tanari salt mines. Speaking of which—have you heard of them? Do you have advice for breaking ponies out of there? I've got the scent of one, Frost has that photo of both, and I can lay a nithing on the captain on general principle, but it would be nice to know if we're missing something."


"Well... he's never without an entourage of the undead. I suppose mindless creatures are the only kind of friends that'll tolerate him. He'll have at least one intelligent creature direct his forces. He's good at delegation. The death lord himself is quite an adversary. He likes to get all 'touchy-feely' and pull at the strings of your soul like one undoes a cross-stitch. I'd advise not getting too close to him. Triton nearly lost a leg in melee with him. Well, he did lose a leg, but her got better. I'm still missing a rib though. Not my favorite rib, but, you know. Still."

"Hm. If he took a leg of a spider-form, what would happen to the zebra-form afterwards?"


"[FONT=Century Gothic]Well, if your endgame is simply a perpetual lifespan and greater understanding of the world as it is, then yes, that is correct. True divinity is much more than that however."

Once again, Spirit had a look of utter bewilderment on his face. After a few failed attempts to articulate this, he just settled with "...I do not comprehend what you mean by 'true divinity'. You can't be referring to mortal will, the only fire with the strength to change reality. You refute that you're referring to the Eight's power to keep entropy at bay. You're talking about some form of power apotheosis, so the joy that comes from friends and life isn't your meaning. Unless 'true divinity' refers to the noose by which ancient pacts strangle those who seek to rewrite them, I don't know what you're referring to. And I fail to see why being strangled by the sun, moon, time, or friendship would be a desirable thing."

[Jurai]

Crossguard raises an eyebrow. "So we've got a Necromancer of no small power to face off against, possibly pulling strings with the group that has taken exception to us, and another pony named Lady Bubblegum to worry about as well? Could you give us some information on her, as well? She may also be working with this 'Death Lord' Yamato character, or may be willing to assist us with the task at hand." Crossguard says. "While knowing about the foe we face off against is good, I'd like to know about the foe who may be either manipulating him or being manipulated by him. Honestly, this Yamato character sounds like somebody was watching too much a-neigh-me."

[DigoDragon]

[20] Know: Religion?

In some religions, such as Clan Henry and at least three great Crystal Pony houses, the World Forge is the hearth that the world was built in. When first made by the fires of the forge, the world was a hot, fiery place. The creator (depending on the specific religion; it could be a smith, hunter, barbarian, etc.) hammered the mountains and valleys before plunging it in a great barrel of water, which created the seas.

In Clan Henry's specific belief system, the world now sits upon the creator's anvil by the forge (which keeps it warm), slowly spun as the creator inspects his work. Should the forge's fire ever go out (or the forge destroyed), the world would plunge into dark coldness and perish.


"Don't stress about it, relax at the festival, and then save lives when everything goes wrong then. Sounds like sane enough advise, after we deal with the Tanari salt mines. Speaking of which—have you heard of them? Do you have advice for breaking ponies out of there? I've got the scent of one, Frost has that photo of both, and I can lay a nithing on the captain on general principle, but it would be nice to know if we're missing something."

"The mines?" Azurah asks thoughtfully. "Heard of them yes, but never had a reason to go there. It's a prison, and prisons were more Penny's specialty in breaking. You could try to find a thieves guild and ask what they know about it."


"Hm. If he took a leg of a spider-form, what would happen to the zebra-form afterwards?"

This question intrigues Azurah. "Rydia!"

"Yes, guru?" the younger zebra asks as she peeks out of the kitchen area.

"Bring me that new set of throwing axes tonight. I know how you can test them."

Rydia blinks. "Am I going to regret asking why?"

"Why ask at all, if you're afraid of the answer?" Azurah comments.

"Sigh, yes Guru." Rydia returns to the kitchen.



Once again, Spirit had a look of utter bewilderment on his face. After a few failed attempts to articulate this, he just settled with "...I do not comprehend what you mean by 'true divinity'. You can't be referring to mortal will, the only fire with the strength to change reality. You refute that you're referring to the Eight's power to keep entropy at bay. You're talking about some form of power apotheosis, so the joy that comes from friends and life isn't your meaning. Unless 'true divinity' refers to the noose by which ancient pacts strangle those who seek to rewrite them, I don't know what you're referring to. And I fail to see why being strangled by the sun, moon, time, or friendship would be a desirable thing."

"That is the beauty of it! It is impossible to fully comprehend divinity without experiencing it," Azurah explains. "Course, if it were easy to do that, I'm sure Illia, Valiance, and Penny would have already done so. I might of tried, but then I doubt there are divine wolves, so meh. Never was interested. Well, the point being, magic has limitations Samson wasn't aware of and he's dead now."



Crossguard raises an eyebrow. "So we've got a Necromancer of no small power to face off against, possibly pulling strings with the group that has taken exception to us, and another pony named Lady Bubblegum to worry about as well? Could you give us some information on her, as well? She may also be working with this 'Death Lord' Yamato character, or may be willing to assist us with the task at hand." Crossguard says. "While knowing about the foe we face off against is good, I'd like to know about the foe who may be either manipulating him or being manipulated by him. Honestly, this Yamato character sounds like somebody was watching too much a-neigh-me."

"As far as I'm aware, Lady bubblegum is still dead and buried in the tomb we left her, outside Oldenburg," Azruah states. "She was a wizard with a gift in transmutation magic. Her favorite form was that of a bubblegum pink pegasus. She wasn't a warrior in any sense. Really, Illia could of probably beat her in melee. But Lady's skills were in infiltration. You wouldn't know it was her until the second or third knife in your back. We got lucky when we caught her off guard."

[Jurai]

"A transmuter, you say? That's not good, and if she's dead... Did any of the assassins mention anything about transformations?" She asks the group, trying to remember if something had popped up.

[McNum]

With the talk about a pink assassin pony, Beryl suddenly feels very conscious about her coat color. Good thing her mane is a strawberry, though.

"Aren't you going to ask her? She might know."

Beryl suddenly looks like she's totally spacing out, listening intently to her inner voice. She does want it to narrow things down, though.

"...ugh. About when we got foalnapped!"

Oh! Right. That. She looks a little unsure of herself, as she asks, but...

"Did Snowsquall make any... any really persistent enemies? Somepony who'd go after him in his next life?" She takes a sip of tea, preparing for the second part of the question "I'm asking because I got foalnapped once... and the foal in my head is me at about that age. She wants me to ask about this, could there be a connection?"

Now Beryl also feels a little self-conscious about asking questions out loud from the voice in her head.

[DigoDragon]

"A transmuter, you say? That's not good, and if she's dead... Did any of the assassins mention anything about transformations?" She asks the group, trying to remember if something had popped up.

"I think the journal we found mentioned some, mostly about alicorns," Ace offers.



"Did Snowsquall make any... any really persistent enemies? Somepony who'd go after him in his next life?" She takes a sip of tea, preparing for the second part of the question "I'm asking because I got foalnapped once... and the foal in my head is me at about that age. She wants me to ask about this, could there be a connection?"

"If you made any persistent enemies in your previous life, you never told me," Azurah replies. "That may be a good question to meditate on, if you still want those lessons later this evening."

[Fable Wright]

"The mines?" Azurah asks thoughtfully. "Heard of them yes, but never had a reason to go there. It's a prison, and prisons were more Penny's specialty in breaking. You could try to find a thieves guild and ask what they know about it."

Spirit ponders for a moment, then "So. You think you can reach Penny via dream or Sending and ask her to help with rescuing Snowsquall's kids? Seems like her assistance or advice would be pretty useful."


"That is the beauty of it! It is impossible to fully comprehend divinity without experiencing it," Azurah explains. "Course, if it were easy to do that, I'm sure Illia, Valiance, and Penny would have already done so. I might of tried, but then I doubt there are divine wolves, so meh. Never was interested. Well, the point being, magic has limitations Samson wasn't aware of and he's dead now."

"...This just sounds like some kind of godly fraternity. 'You're not actually living the god-life to its fullest unless you join', 'we can't tell you what it's like unless you're one of us', 'no, no, you can't just join, you've got to go through initiation first', 'dude, dude, he's actually doing it! Haha, look at his face! Faces aren't supposed to look like that.' Until science can at least measure a difference between divinity and 'true' divinity, I'll stick with the one that doesn't make you look like a fool."

[McNum]

""[COLOR="#696969"]If you made any persistent enemies in your previous life, you never told me," Azurah replies. "That may be a good question to meditate on, if you still want those lessons later this evening."
"I'd like to, but..." a thought hits Beryl that she can't resist. She starts in a more serious 'this is how I think a Paladin would talk' voice "Our quest to save Frostbite's parents from the Salt Mines is urgent!" and just like that she switches back to plain old Beryl voice "...but it would be nice to be able to talk to older Heliodors. I met three of them in a dream. I wonder how many there are?"

She thinks if there's anything more to add "Oh, and something funny about that dream. When I woke up, I was glowing and I mean that literally. Didn't stop until early afternoon. Hm, wonder if I need to glow to talk to my previous selves?"

[One Tin Soldier]

Spirit ponders for a moment, then "So. You think you can reach Penny via dream or Sending and ask her to help with rescuing Snowsquall's kids? Seems like her assistance or advice would be pretty useful."



"...This just sounds like some kind of godly fraternity. 'You're not actually living the god-life to its fullest unless you join', 'we can't tell you what it's like unless you're one of us', 'no, no, you can't just join, you've got to go through initiation first', 'dude, dude, he's actually doing it! Haha, look at his face! Faces aren't supposed to look like that.' Until science can at least measure a difference between divinity and 'true' divinity, I'll stick with the one that doesn't make you look like a fool."

Midnight rolls his eyes at the zebra. "Spirit. Come on. She's been dealing with all of this since before we were even born. I think she might know a bit more about the subject than we do."

"Also, if Beryl really a reincarnation of this Snowsquall pony, what are the odds that she would run into his grandson like this? Isn't that, like, super unlikely?"

[Fable Wright]

Midnight rolls his eyes at the zebra. "Spirit. Come on. She's been dealing with all of this since before we were even born. I think she might know a bit more about the subject than we do."

He shrugs. "Have you never seen a foal stump a priest with a simple question before? Can you say a teacher never gets wiser as she teaches, or a parent never learns from a child? Challenge of accepted belief is the source of all knowledge, and a challenge is the ultimate expression of gratitude. One only challenges an idea if they like it enough to look deeply into it, after all."


"Also, if Beryl really a reincarnation of this Snowsquall pony, what are the odds that she would run into his grandson like this? Isn't that, like, super unlikely?"

"Technically, as it's an event in the past, the probability is one."

[DigoDragon]

Spirit ponders for a moment, then "So. You think you can reach Penny via dream or Sending and ask her to help with rescuing Snowsquall's kids? Seems like her assistance or advice would be pretty useful."

Azurah shakes her head. "I've tried to reach her every few moons, but she never responds. Penny has her own life now... or maybe she's still bitter about the Valiance incident."


"...This just sounds like some kind of godly fraternity. 'You're not actually living the god-life to its fullest unless you join', 'we can't tell you what it's like unless you're one of us', 'no, no, you can't just join, you've got to go through initiation first', 'dude, dude, he's actually doing it! Haha, look at his face! Faces aren't supposed to look like that.' Until science can at least measure a difference between divinity and 'true' divinity, I'll stick with the one that doesn't make you look like a fool."

"There is a very good reason why I spend my time among wolves."



"I'd like to, but..." a thought hits Beryl that she can't resist. She starts in a more serious 'this is how I think a Paladin would talk' voice "Our quest to save Frostbite's parents from the Salt Mines is urgent!" and just like that she switches back to plain old Beryl voice "...but it would be nice to be able to talk to older Heliodors. I met three of them in a dream. I wonder how many there are?"

"Dozens? Hundreds? Maybe enough that you've forgotten the earlier ones?" Azurah asks in return. "You have an advantage with the child voice. Children are the second best determinators of character and honesty."


She thinks if there's anything more to add "Oh, and something funny about that dream. When I woke up, I was glowing and I mean that literally. Didn't stop until early afternoon. Hm, wonder if I need to glow to talk to my previous selves?"

To this question, Azurah only shrugs.



Midnight rolls his eyes at the zebra. "Spirit. Come on. She's been dealing with all of this since before we were even born. I think she might know a bit more about the subject than we do."

"There are some things I wish I could forget," Azurah says softly. "...like that incident Penny and I had with the sovereign glue."



"Technically, as it's an event in the past, the probability is one."

Ace lets out a fake yawn. "So... this is an interesting story-time, but I would like to know what our actual plans are next. Are we still heading up north to rescue Frost's parents?"

[Beacon of Chaos]

Frostbite sits quietly, listening intently as waves of information wash over him. Eventually, he decides to speak.

"Okay, I have questions. Oh so many. Uh, let's start with Erebus. So I'm descended from a dragon? At the risk of sounding dumb... what exactly is a dragon? I've never seen one. But I know they are a different species to ponies so... how do they... uh... y'know, with the half-breeds and all, they must... y'know?" He blushes.

"And now Beryl is also Snowsquall? So, like, Beryl would have his memories somewhere? So this meditation stuff might help get more info about my parents?"

[DigoDragon]

"Okay, I have questions. Oh so many. Uh, let's start with Erebus. So I'm descended from a dragon? At the risk of sounding dumb... what exactly is a dragon? I've never seen one. But I know they are a different species to ponies so... how do they... uh... y'know, with the half-breeds and all, they must... y'know?" He blushes.

Azurah looks like she's greatly amused by the question, but manages not to laugh out. "Dragons are very powerful and crafty creatures, adept at many forms of magic. Erebus likely knows how to change her form when she wants to... erm, interact with ponies. As for how half-breeds come about? I'm not sure of the details, but when a dragon is involved with anything, expect a lot of complex magic. So, magic did it I guess. I do know that having a dragon in your lineage can be a great asset."


"And now Beryl is also Snowsquall? So, like, Beryl would have his memories somewhere? So this meditation stuff might help get more info about my parents?"

"At the very least something about Icewind, his daughter."

[McNum]

"So... for all we've asked around, the one pony who could have answered about Frost's parents was me all along?" Beryl asks in a somewhat confused tone. "If only I knew how to meditate, which I don't. I usually clear my head by baking or singing, sometimes dancing." Beryl realizes she actually hasn't sung anything for days. Clearly this needs to be fixed, soon.

She turns to Frost to ask him "I know we're in a hurry, but do you want me to learn how to talk to Snowsquall? I'd hope he knows who Icewind's partner is, getting us both names."

[One Tin Soldier]

He shrugs. "Have you never seen a foal stump a priest with a simple question before? Can you say a teacher never gets wiser as she teaches, or a parent never learns from a child? Challenge of accepted belief is the source of all knowledge, and a challenge is the ultimate expression of gratitude. One only challenges an idea if they like it enough to look deeply into it, after all."

"Maybe? But more often it's the foal being grumpy that their teacher told them they were wrong, even though they just started learning about it."


"Technically, as it's an event in the past, the probability is one."

Midnight, not having been trained in probability, looks confused. "What? What I meant was, could fate have guided them together?"

[Fable Wright]

Ace lets out a fake yawn. "So... this is an interesting story-time, but I would like to know what our actual plans are next. Are we still heading up north to rescue Frost's parents?"

Spirit nods to Ace. "We are. It's a question of whether we are staying the night here first, though. If we stay, Beryl would learn a Heliodor meditation, Azurah may be able to fashion a totem to ease shapeshifting and infiltration of the prison, and potentially contact one of Penny's old acquaintances in Arendale to give us a bit more info about the layout of the mines. It'd be nice to know that a given path leads to the bunks, as opposed to Ironjaw's office. On the other hand, if we leave now, we save time on rescuing Frost's parents and may have a bit more time to prepare for the festival."


"Maybe? But more often it's the foal being grumpy that their teacher told them they were wrong, even though they just started learning about it."

Spirit shrugs. "If a venerable high priest of the sun told you that the night had no importance as it was just the sun resting, would you not dispute him? He has practiced religion and belief longer than you have, and taught many others his truth of the world. He is a teacher telling you that you are wrong about a subject you just began delving into. Does that make your current viewpoint incorrect? There is wisdom and learning even in churlish defiance. Most people just don't look for it there."


Midnight, not having been trained in probability, looks confused. "What? What I meant was, could fate have guided them together?"

"I've suggested that as a possibility several times today. Does it matter, one way or the other?"

[One Tin Soldier]

Spirit shrugs. "If a venerable high priest of the sun told you that the night had no importance as it was just the sun resting, would you not dispute him? He has practiced religion and belief longer than you have, and taught many others his truth of the world. He is a teacher telling you that you are wrong about a subject you just began delving into. Does that make your current viewpoint incorrect? There is wisdom and learning even in churlish defiance. Most people just don't look for it there."

"Well you've got that 'churlish defiance' thing down at least. Just the sun resting. Even Dawn ponies aren't that stupid."


"I've suggested that as a possibility several times today. Does it matter, one way or the other?"

He shrugs. "Maybe?"

[DigoDragon]

Spirit nods to Ace. "On the other hand, if we leave now, we save time on rescuing Frost's parents and may have a bit more time to prepare for the festival."

"Well, just asking cause earlier this morning it sounded like we were a little tied up for time on the rescue," Ace Says. "Takes about a day to sail up to Arendale from here. But if everyone ants to change plans, that's cool. I'm more along for the ride than anything. My only stakes is just not getting killed by vampire assassins."


He shrugs. "Maybe?"

"I generally prefer to assume I'm just lucky that way," Azurah adds.

[Beacon of Chaos]

Azurah looks like she's greatly amused by the question, but manages not to laugh out. "Dragons are very powerful and crafty creatures, adept at many forms of magic. Erebus likely knows how to change her form when she wants to... erm, interact with ponies. As for how half-breeds come about? I'm not sure of the details, but when a dragon is involved with anything, expect a lot of complex magic. So, magic did it I guess. I do know that having a dragon in your lineage can be a great asset."

"At the very least something about Icewind, his daughter."
"I see. Thank you," he says. "Icewind... Icewind." He seems to be saying the word just to hear how it sounds.

"Great asset, huh? Maybe that's why..." he trails off.


She turns to Frost to ask him "I know we're in a hurry, but do you want me to learn how to talk to Snowsquall? I'd hope he knows who Icewind's partner is, getting us both names."
Frost looks pensive for a while. "As much as I'd like to go as quickly as possible... I guess more knowledge can only help us." He frowns, as though upset by his own decision. "As long as we don't take too long. The brotherhood knows we're going to the mines. I wouldn't put it past them to move my parents somewhere else just to annoy me;" he turns to Azurah. "They're jerks like that."