Astral Vision

@Samurai Equine @Pastel Heart After a long, gruelling battle, Elusive Facts had finally been defeated. Astral had seen the fight play out through the party's eyes, and was pleased to see their victory, not holding a single doubt for what they could accomplish together. "Well my King, it seems our champions were victorious against the first boss, so we may very well have a new member in our ranks. As for Mayor Black, I will speak with him myself... eventually. For the moment, I want to wait and see if he reveals anything, or at least until we learn of his location. After all, outplaying him should make him more open to formal discussion. I've seen way too many movies where the hero tries to reason with the villain, and gets struck down by running headfirst. Come to think of it, I hope Pastel doesn't try anything. That filly has more energy than a power plant."

@Samurai Equine Astral slowly nodded as he took in Mayor White's continuing tale. It was sad to hear how Mayor Black had come to close himself off, but his personality made it easier for the puzzle pieces to fit. "Wow. So I guess his own ego, combined with Friendshire's less than extravagant exposure, did have quite the effect on him. But even if Friendshire isn't the town he wanted it to be, that's no excuse for abandoning the people he swore to protect. And not only that, but if he truly cared for you, then why would he?!- ... *Sigh* Just why would he leave you all alone? It doesn't make sense." @Dynamo Pad Astral's pupils momentarily disappeared as the blue glow returned, it seemed he was communicating with one of the group! As he looked through Dynamo's eyes, he heard a loud voice that stated: A BOSS APPROACHES! A BOSS APPROACHES! As his eyes returned to normal, Astral shook himself out of his daze, and turned back to their king. "Well sir, it seems our army may soon be in for a fight, but I have the utmost confidence in them."

@Samurai Equine Best of luck Samurai.

@Samurai Equine Astral's expression dropped into a negative state as he listened to Mayor White's tale; it seemed the old colt had a definite history of putting others first. This quality of selflessness was quite rare for most creatures, and probably helped White to become a better leader, though it was a shame this very quirk had caused him to lose so much, including his closest friend. Astral didn't know how to respond; he wanted to help Mayor White, but he couldn't articulate his words, and sometimes saying nothing was the better course of action. With nothing to show other than understanding and intrigue, Astral asked to hear the end of the old Mayor's story. "So, your selfless tendencies caused your closest friend, Mayor Black, to try and push you towards taking what you wanted when you wanted it. In a way, the two of you started to become opposites, but still... with such a close friendship after many years, even with your differences, what was the thing that finally drove you apart?"

@Samurai Equine "So, are you brothers or cousins? I suppose it makes no difference, but it's still surprising to hear you used to be close. My king, would you care to share some of the adventures you had together with Black in your youth? I don't mind listening, of course, I can only guess it is quite the story to tell." Astral waited eagerly to see if White would continue to share his past. If he did, then Astral's quest to learn the reasoning of the town's divide would grow closer to completion.

@Dynamo Pad Astral stepped back in shock as he shared Dynamo's vision, it seemed all of the citizens of Friendshire had been pulled into the world of this game, just how much more trouble was waiting for them? The blue unicorn took a deep breath and calmed himself, seeing as how the citizens were not brought to harm, not yet anyway. After clearing himself, Astral turned to the Justice King, and began to clue him in to the group's discovery. @Samurai Equine "Sir, I'm afraid to say that we are not the only ones trapped. It would seem that all of Friendshire has been trapped in this digital realm, meaning they too will only escape through victory or defeat. Let us hope they will be kept safe by our comrades... By the way, Mr. White, since we may be waiting here for quite some time, might I ask you something personal? Your relation to Mayor Black, how was it during your youth? I imagine that the two of you were quite close during foalhood?"

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad @ExplosionMare @Pastel Heart @C. Thunder Dash @GeneralDirection @Windy Breeze 🥧 "It's great to see you safe Trilby, I only wish you weren't wrapped into this digital fiasco. As for how we'll escape this realm, I'm not entirely sure." Astral soon had his answer as a castle instantly materialized around the group, and sitting on the thrown was none other than Mayor White, the older pony whom Astral had met. The wizard was greatly shocked to see the Mayor standing.. err, sitting with such high health, his position demanding respect as Astral listened closely to the group's given quest. It seemed they had to pillage the treasure contained by dark forces, but the ponies who fought for the other castle may very well also be citizens of Friendshire, a theory which left Astral somewhat worrisome. "As much as I don't like staying out of the action, I will volunteer to stay at the castle and defend our king; if all else fails, I should be able to erect a magical barrier around the castle for a limited time. But don't worry, I have a way we can keep in touch." Astral drew his wand and incited a powerful incantation, his eyes glowed a bright white as a shockwave reverberated throughout the castle. Once Astral opened his eyes, his pupils had returned, but a blue haze-like mist now adorned his eyelids like that of King Sombra. "With this spell, I can see everything that you see. However, as this spell takes a lot of concentration, I will only be able to communicate with each of you one at a time. If you need me on the battlefield, call on me and I shall appear. While the choice is entirely yours to take, know that you could be split into 8 teams of two, and I would think it best to team with those you feel most comfortable with. After all, teamwork can only have full effect when each creature knows the other fully well. Best of luck my friends." After bidding good luck and safe travels to his fellow comrades of light, Astral bowed to Mayor White who had taken the mantle of their ruler. "My king, I pledge my allegiance to you and our warriors! May our justice bring light towards the dark forces, and peace to this world's people!"

@Samurai Equine As his vision began to clear, Astral found himself in a Friendshire completely different from what he'd known; the setting seemed to be medieval, yet there were Sci-fi elements that graced the skies, it was certainly different. Following his analysis, Astral saw that instead of his usual grey jacket, he now wore a royal blue wizard cloak, adorned with golden stars and broad shoulder guards, and he even had his own wand. Astral was content with what the game had provided, and felt calmer seeing the rest of his friends unharmed, but was also surprised to see Trilby in what appeared to be some sort of medical wear. "Trilby, so you got roped into this too huh? Well, I'm glad to see that you're unharmed, and that all of you are safe." Astral said with a warm smile. @Pastel Heart Astral looked down at the Pink filly who had taken the appearance of.. some sort of ninja, likely a Rogue class. Astral couldn't help but chuckle, seeing the little pony filled with so much energy with the appearance of those who were mainly silent, it was highly contradicting yet oddly fitting at the same time. "Well hark thee young squire, let us hope that thou does not wish to rob anyone in our party, such an act would be unwise." ...First puns, then ye' old fancy talk. The longer Astral spoke within the group, the more his 'mysterious' facade began to fade. "Well friends, the question still remains in what we are to do next? Surely, once our party is fully formed, we shall have some form of quest?" @Dynamo Pad @ExplosionMare @C. Thunder Dash @GeneralDirection @Windy Breeze 🥧

@Samurai Equine I too am curious of the win condition of Two Castles. From what you've provided so far, I can guess the good and evil teams will be fighting over some treasure, and the winning team may be able to leave the game? But this is just a guess. I just hope that the losers won't be temporarily deleted.

@Samurai Equine Astral saw Pencil and Thundy join them on the stage, and while the blue unicorn was ready for any challenge the VR game could give, he was gravely unprepared for what happened next. Once the game was activated, a bright light consumed the arcade, and soon all of Friendshire. Astral was unconscious, his mind adrift in the seemingly endless void.. but then, he heard a voice, and his eyes lazily drifted open. CHOOSE YOUR CHARACTER A list of various classes was presented to Astral, with recommended options near the top. The unicorn was bewildered at this sudden series of events, but not only that, he feared for his friends who were not at his side. "For the sake of the others, and the safety of my comrades, i will do whatever it takes. I select GRAND WIZARD! I just hope I don't have a beard..:" Astral muttered the last bit under his breath, hoping the AI would show him some mercy. After making his decision, the digital space seemed to respond by glowing even brighter, blinding Astral as he was transported to an unknown location. "Don't worry friends, I'm on my way."

@Dynamo Pad @Samurai Equine @Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection @C. Thunder Dash Astral pondered on Dynamo's question, there really was no reason to NOT take part in the tournament, but something caught the attention of the group before the blue unicorn could answer. A well dressed pony by the name of Elusive Facts had riled up the crowd to shear levels of excitement, and it seemed there was a new game unheard of even by the Gamer Pony Dynamo; Two Castles, a VR experience. Astral was fully aware of the workings behind Virtual Reality, as the technology was near parallel to his own magic expertise; however, rather than be excited like the rest of the ponies, Astral seemed worried and suspicious. "I know what you mean Dynamo; Two Kings fighting in a town with Two Mayors at war, it almost seems TOO coincidental. Not only that, but Virtual Reality can be dangerous; after all, anything can happen in the digital world, even your greatest fears can be brought to life." Astral didn't mean to be a downer on the festivities, but in a town where evil and curses seemed to pop up around every corner, he had good reason to be suspicious. The pony Elusive Facts soon called Dynamo onto the stage, urging the unicorn to give the new game his best wishes; Astral smiled as he saw Dynamo paint a good image for gaming as a whole, examples like his were sure to inspire the gaming industry for many years to come. As soon as he gave his opinion and cut the ribbon, Astral saw Elusive come to meet with him personally, trying to convince the blue stallion to take part in the event. "Alright then, I'll take part in this game as well, it should be lots of fun! However, if we hope to keep this event running, some of us will need to stay in the real world." Astral then turned to face the group with a questioning expression on his face, he could only guess how many of them wanted to experience the VR game, but they couldn't afford to place all their eggs in one basket. "My friends, we have two spots remaining for the VR game, so who wishes to join us?"

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection Astral somewhat struggled to keep up with the group as the arcade had become overly crowded, though this was only proving how successful the tournament could be. As he navigated through many ponies and arcade machines, Astral soon heard Dynamo ask about the tournament divisions, and once Astral got close enough to be heard, he thoroughly explained what events would be taking place. "Well Dynamo, there are a fair range of tournaments taking place today. For those who didn't get their fill of racing the day before, we have a kart racing simulator. For the musically gifted, such as our own Pastel, we have 'Must Dance' and Karaoke machines. We also have some classic fighting games such as 'Street Biter' and 'Immortal Combat', though be warned, these games may not be for the faint of heart. So in other words, you all have plenty of options to choose from. Though you are right, its best to be quick in signing up; after all, plenty of ponies here are itching to get in on the action!"

@Dynamo Pad Bingo Dynamo. The main tournament will be INSIDE the arcade, but the registration and shop booths are outside. Sorry for the delayed response.

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection @C. Thunder Dash As the crew marched out the door and began their journey to the arcade, Astral found it difficult to contain his excitement, knowing that the event construction had already begun. As the group grew closer to the arcade building, Astral spoke at what he felt was the right time for getting the best positive reaction. "Well Dynamo, let's just say this next event will be right up your alley. In fact, the main competitions will be held in the arcade vicinity. Why do you ask? Well that's because... Duh duh duh DUUH! The event is a GAMING TOURNAMENT! Surprise! The experience should definitely help hone your gaming skills, and who knows, maybe you'll even become more skilled with your gaming magic?" Everywhere the construction ponies had built stands and shops around the arcade building, banners stood tall of favorite gaming mascots, and residents had already begun to sign up for the tournaments in store. This was going to be one heck of a gaming venture. "Did I deliver, or did I deliver guys? One might say I took this event, to the next level?" It seemed the blue unicorn still liked to make bad jokes, but there wasn't any harm in it, so why stop now?

It's good. I like the Cutie Mark.

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @C. Thunder Dash Astral could see that the group was planning to depart, so he saw no reason why he couldn't explain the event on the road. "Sure Dynamo, I'm fine with explaining as we get towards the arcade. And I guarantee that this next event will really appeal to you!" Astral exclaimed with a smile on his face. Astral then saw Dynamo walk to meet Pencil in the kitchen, and while he didn't hear the full conversation, he could hear his name mentioned in some level of importance. 'I hope everything's okay, we wouldn't want Dynamo getting down on himself like last time.' Astral thought to himself, slightly worried of what this 'private matter' was, and how he and Pencil were somehow a part of it.

@Samurai Equine @Windy Breeze 🥧 "Well Trilby, I'm glad to see that Samurai showed you kindness as well; and if either of you wish to participate, just be sure to sign up before noon. Now, if you'll excuse me, I better go tell Dynamo and the others about the event too. The gamer pony would never forgive me if he missed a gaming tournament, I'm sure. Hope to see you there!" And so, with Trilby safe and informed, Astral made his way to Samurai's house, knowing that Dynamo would be there watching over it. @Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @C. Thunder Dash Once he arrived at Samurai's home, Astral knocked on the front door, awaiting a response. "Hello, Dynamo? It's me, Astral. I have an update on the next event. Are you there?"

@Samurai Equine @Windy Breeze 🥧 Astral could see that Trilby was looking to him for help, and since he knew somewhat of Samurai's reasons for departure, he was quick to fill Shadow in. "That dress was a gift for Pastel, Samurai gave all of us gifts when he called us out to the town limits last night. The reason he had to leave was to protect us from his greatest enemy's wrath, but he left Friendshire's safety in our hooves.. or claws if you count Thundy. He never hinted to any threat before, it came out of no where for everyone, but he trusted us to bring the town closer in his absence. As for my roll, I've stepped in as the event organizer, and today is going to be a gaming tournament; though I'm sure my booming voice made that pretty clear already."

@Samurai Equine Astral's eyelids rose as high as the sun once he saw the problem that plagued poor Trilby; an angry mob had swarmed his shop from nearly top to bottom, and all because of Samurai's sudden leave. Astral, however, knew that the warrior wasn't to blame, but so long as the people remained panicked over the loss of their protector, the ranting would only continue. Astral took a deep breath, and soon the crowd was shook by a voice like that of thunder. "SILENCE CREATURES!! WHILE IT IS TRUE THAT SAMURAI IS NO LONGER IN FRIENDSHIRE FOR THE MOMENT, I CAN ASSURE YOU AS HIS TEMPORARY REPLACEMENT THAT YOU ARE WELL PROTECTED UNTIL HIS EVENTUAL RETURN! THIS BUSINESS PONY SPEAKS THE TRUTH, HE HAS NO WAY OF RETURNING SAMURAI ANY SOONER, BUT THAT DOES NOT ALLOW YOU TO BLAME HIM ALONE! NOW BE GONE! Oh, yeah, and also- BE SURE TO SIGN UP FOR THE GAMING TOURNAMENT TODAY IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, OR SUFFER THE PRICE OF SIMPLISTIC BOREDOM!!" Apparently, Astral knew how to use the Royal Canterlot Voice, despite not being royalty himself. It seemed there were still many mysteries surrounding the blue unicorn. Once the crowd's rage began to die down, Astral made his way over to the frightened business pony. "Trilby, are you alright?" Astral worryingly said, returning to his normal tone.

@Samurai Equine The change.. it is done. Just message me beforehand next time so I don't have to use my mind reading powers.

@Samurai Equine@Dynamo Pad Oops. Sorry, since we had previously talked about the fighting tournament before, I didn't really take the randomizer approach. No problem, its an easy fix; plus, now there won't be a risk of Samurai coming home to a ravaged Friendshire.

@Dynamo Pad@Pastel Heart@ExplosionMare@C. Thunder Dash@GeneralDirection@Kronos the Revenant Astral slept soundly in his travel cart, though he had been awake rather late into the night, fiddling with the Laronde box; he was honoured that Samurai trusted him the powerful artifact, and he was desperate to know all of its secrets. Soon, the blue unicorn darted awake as a bright glow filled his tiny cart room, and as his eyes drifted lazily to the cause of it all, they quickly widened once he realized it was the Laronde Box! "GREAT FATHER OF LUNA, its actually working! Alright then little magic cube, what is the next big event the town needs?" While it was doubtful that the cube had any form of a conscious, it seemed to respond to the question by temporarily opening itself, and it soon began to display a magical hologram projection. The projection seemed to display both good and bad intentions; two ponies were locked in combat with one another, neither seeming to back down until the victor was declared, but their movements seemed too fluid, almost like fantasy combat? Once the hologram ended, the Laronde Box returned to its dormant state and fell gently into Astral's hooves. "Not a bad hologram spell little one, I'm impressed. But still, the next needed event seems to be.. a fighting tournament? How could this possibly help the town in any way? While it is true that physical action can attract great numbers, the whole reason the town is divided is because of the two mayors, so won't this only compliment the problem rather than help solve it? Wait a second, no, maybe it isn't a fighting tournament? The movements of those ponies were somewhat similar to 'Walkway Combat', so it could be a gaming tournamnet; that's much safer! Well, if Samurai's helped the town by following this magic cube's instructions thus far, then I suppose there is no harm in organizing this one too; let the games begin!" Astral grabbed a quick breakfast, adorned his jacket, and packed his satchel bag with spell books; as he closed the door of his parked travel cart behind him, he began to walk toward the town hall. While he didn't see Samurai talk to the town committee himself, he knew that their assistance was vital in seeing the gaming tournament made. Astral walked to the front desk of the somewhat empty town hall, which was understandable considering the mayors' feud. Luckily, there was a clerk pony sitting at the front desk. While it took what seemed like hours for Astral to prove himself as Samurai's stand-in, he was eventually able to meet with the town committee and make preparations for the tournament. "There's no better entertainment than gaming tournaments; they have just as much virtual action, yet none of the collateral damage!" And just like that, the event was set. Construction ponies were sent to the town arcade to build stands, banners, and the arcade was soon transformed into a luxurious gaming convention. Pretty soon, Astral was out the front entrance of town hall, and making his way through the streets. @Samurai Equine "Well, there is still some time before the game tournament starts, maybe someone would like a morning visit? Maybe I could go see Trilby, so long as if his store is open." Astral figured that while there was risk with the curse, a business pony such as Trilby might appreciate an early event update. Besides, the unicorn knew that with his magic and purification amulet, no one would get hurt.. Hopefully. Once he arrived at the front of Trilby's store, he was unsure if the establishment was actually open. Astral gingerly knocked on the front door, careful not to break the glass (if any). "Hello, Trilby? It's me Astral, are you there?"

@Samurai Equine Thank you for waiting on my behalf Samurai, I appreciate it. @Kronos the Revenant I thought it was interesting to use holograms to fit your cyborg theme, but still have them be spirits.

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @C. Thunder Dash @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection @Kronos the Revenant The night was clear and the wind was brisk, and Astral stood firmly alongside the group as Samurai made his announcement, though what he heard only brought sadness. It seemed Samurai had a great challenge he needed to overcome, and for the safety of everyone, he had to do it alone. Astral should have felt angry at Samurai for such a reckless decision, but instead, he calmly understood the situation and made no comment. As the pony circled the group and gave out gifts to the group, Astral did his best to hide his emotions, until Samurai eventually came to him. Astral was immediately shocked once he saw, of all things he could have been given, the Laronde Box. For a moment, the blue unicorn's mouth was agape, he was in awe that Samurai trusted him so deeply. Lifting out his hoof, Astral gently cradled the unique artifact as if it were a living creature; slowly, his eyes trailed back to face Samurai. "I.. I mean, how could-.. Thank you, Samurai. While I admit your decision to face Snow Leapord alone may be rash, I trust you know exactly what you're doing. And yet, I still feel scared for you; it feels strange, but at the same time, it feels natural." Astral said, trying his best to smile, but only getting a crooked grin. Astral slowly leaned in to hug Samurai with the others, and he whispered something into the warrior pony's ear. "Good luck my friend, come home safely." Astral managed to say, with a crick in his throat. As he embraced his friend for the first time, something else occurred which no one had seen; a tear fell from Astral's eye, then another. Clearly, even though Astral rarely showed his emotions, the pony wasn't made of stone. The unicorn felt that Samurai needed something to signify a proper sendoff; while Astral had no physical gifts to bear, he had something in mind which everyone would want to see: The future of Friendshire. Astral, in his quest to collect pages for the Friendshire book, had finally discovered the appearance of the two mayors in their youth. As the unicorn's horn glowed its brightest turquoise hue, the stars in the night sky began to dance, soon forming into the shapes of two ponies. On the left was Mayor Black, and on the right Mayor White; the two ponies were smiling, shaking hooves as friends. This was what the town needed, what the group wanted, and would make happen. As he pulled away from the group hug, Astral's wiped his face, and gave Samurai his final words. "I promise Samurai, I will bring Friendshire back together. This is our vision, and with the help of Dynamo, Pastel, Pencil, and every creature here, we WILL make that vision a reality. Now you go make us proud, and we'll be ready for your return."

@Samurai Equine I too am ready for the next major arc of the story, so long as everyone else is too.