The mare had only just made her way to Granite Rose's table. Silver barely had any time to finish his water. Lruf had just poured Shadow Star another drink, before noises began to sound outside. The warm atmosphere seemed to almost die off, as yelling was heard beyond the door. Slamming was heard. Carriages being sent across town, in every which road, it wasn't long before everyone could hear the hoofsteps approaching the door.
Meanwhile a cloaked figure escaped through the backdoor...
The massive oak doors swung open, slamming loudly against the stone wall. A royal guard, elite by the insignia of the sun over his heart, flew in--rising higher, before speaking over the tavern.
"The Princesses have decreed a quest. Our allies call for aid across the waters, more than what we can spare. She has ordered that we search every corner of Canterlot, for..."
He raised the paper he'd been reading from, the seal of the alicorn flashing for all to see. A royal-tier job, usually reserved for the likes of the Elements.
"Heroes!"
The decree resounded through the room. The proposition hanging in the air, refusing to budge regardless of any silence that followed. The guard glared down at all of them, and one by one ponies began to duck their heads...Shuffle in the shadows, stare at their drinks. Clearly fearful of what might lie in wait...