private Order of the Flower [Nightmare Season and Raven Rawne]

[Nightmare Season 617]

OOC Thread

 

@@Raven Rawne,

 

Within the walls of the royal library at Canterlot. A young mare was looking through old scrolls and books. She was slightly smaller than the average mare her age. Her coat was a tannish-pink and her mane and tail was done up in the current fashion of the rich. Flowers decorated her pink mane while her fancy dress covered the rest of her body. She had a single potted flower next to her. Other than that, she was alone.

 

Peony Spring had heard a rumor lately about an extremely rare and magical flower. One that the petals could cure any ailments. She had requested permission to look for it in the oldest section of the library that was usually closed off to the rest of the citizens. Months had went by for her reply to enter. She had finally gotten the permission she asked for and now was pouring through all the tomes about mythical flowers.

 

After the twentieth dusty book, she discovered a clue to the origin of the fairy tail about the flower. It seemed that the rumors were mostly true. Though she discovered another secret about this flower. One she knew she had to keep secret. The name of the flower she learned was called, the eternal bloom. The story of the flower was passed down from pony to pony who calls themselves, The Order of the Flower. Keepers of the only known source where they grow.

 

Looking through the maps, Peony discovered the area the book spoke of. With a grin, she knew she could discover it. Bring seeds back and breed them. Her flowers could become useful to ailing ponies, and those needing medicine. She decided that it was something she had to do. With her penmanship, she wrote an advertisement. Looking for a pony that could escort her to the edge of Equestria. To the last know location of the temple of the flower. She left out most of the detail. Just mentioned a large sum of bits to help escort her to retrieve a flower for medical study.

 

The most important part of the story, she decided to keep a secret. Trouble could be found if it was known. She hung a few copies of the ad in a few locations around Canterlot that sees many adventurers hang out. Hopefully one would answer it and come to her parents mansion in the rich part of the city.

 

She packed a lacy saddle bag with things she figured she would need for a trip to the temple. She had to keep it a secret from her folks as well. They would never allow her to leave on a trip. Especially not for a simple flower. She waited a few days for one who could take her there.

Edited March 29, 2017 by Nightmare Season

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season,

 

Morning in Cantelot Lower Level... Celestia's light slowly encroached on the narrow streets, gracing with it's brilliance the poorest denizens of the City, their crumbling homes and shops. Drunkards and thieves scurried like rats to their dens, as if the sun burned their coats. Some remained on their posts, taking an eternal watch with a bottle under a foreleg, until a helpful soul relieve them of their burden, and any posessions they might have. A corpse picker will take them to a more permament, but not necessarily more graceful, resting place.

 

A lone earth pony mare woke up to a ray of sunlight invading her own temporary den, through broken shutters. A scrunch of discontent on her mint face heralded a groan and ruffling of her messy chocolate mane with a foreleg. Natural Order - for that was the mare's name, rolled off the old bed and picked herself up, then stretched thoroughtly. "Another day in Paradise..." - She grumbled, making the bed and looking around te cheap inn room. Today was the day they promised her wagon would be ready, and the mare was hellbent on leaving this city as soon as possible. Rummaging through her belongings, she fished out the combs and went to what the innkeep called "bathroom", to have a bath and make herself presentable. Once clean and dry, she left the room.

 

Some three hours later - a clock on the wall said it was nine AM - she was back at the inn, towing her precious wagon. It had a brand new roof, the previous one was torn off by something very unfriendly. It was a simple design - a box on wheels, with doors at the back, small window with wooden shutters on each side, a tiny stove at the front. Two spare wheels attatched to the sides and an arched roof. It followed it's owner's color scheme - everything was painted green, and the roof was brownish tar. Natural Order parked it with a yawn right under the "Dead Mare's Drink", one of many watering holes with cheap rooms, more often than not sold for hours, not nights. It was time to lug her belongings back from the room and into the cart, pay up, and be on her merry way, as far away from this place as possible. One more day and she would be thrown out for brawls anyway - drunken stallions don't know that a mare can say no, and, perhaps even worse, can break their jaw if the don't listen...

 

There was no clock nearby to consult, but it could be ten or so, when Natural Order was finally packed and ready, her coin purse empty, saviouring the last of her tobacco as she smoked her favourite pipe, browsing the notice board for a cue where to go now. ""Nah, nope, no bucking way..." She scratched her head in confusion - there really were no decent offers around? She leafed through the pinned papers, and noticed that one looked different. Defaced with some very crude scribbles and "images", was an ad of a pony looking for a guide. The paper was pue white and expensive, the penmanship very neat and elaborate... evidently put up by somepony who can back their claim of a "generous reward". There weren't many details, but the mare had a hunch, and tore the ad off the board. That'll have to do for now." She scratched her head, trying to remember which ay is the Uppr Level, for that's where the pony who made the ad supposedly lived.

 

Another clock, just on the other street, said it was 3 PM, and Natural had no problems in believing it. she had to make a stop to eat something sometime earlier, but now she was standing before a huge mansion - well, they were all huge, but still - her wagon neatly parked by the sidewalk of a wide paved street. Ponies in elaborate and expensive clothes looked down upon her, and she was pretty sure that a guard over there was observing her... Still, the mare puffed at the loose strand of hair that was tickling her nose, took a deep breath, and knocked at the door. She packed her pipe and hat in the wagon, so she wouldn't look like a total vagabond, and her crossbow was also stowed inside - guards don't like when it's out and hanging off the front wall of her mobile house.

[Nightmare Season 617]

@@Raven Rawne,

 

A knock on the door had alerted Peony. There were no guests scheduled for this time of day. She quickly ran to the front door through the various hall ways of the mansion. As soon as she reached the door, a servant had already got there and started to open the door. She quickly called out to the servant, "I do believe she is here to see me dear. You may go back to your duties."

 

The servant simply shrugged and went back to her dusting of one of the rooms. Peony looked over the stranger before her. She was a bit hesitant at first. She did not like having to introduce herself to new ponies after all. However, by the way the mare looked, she must have come about her notice. "Are you....Might you be here about my ad dear?" She finally asked her.

 

Upon confirmation she was, Peony led her to a day room close by to better talk. She did not want any pony to over hear her plan. "Welcome dear. My name is Peony Spring. I am the one that had posted the help wanted ad up around town. I am in need of a good pony that can escort me to a certain temple on the edge of Equestria. There we should find a flower who's petals can be used in medicine." Peony showed the mare a map that she had copied from the map from the book.

 

"This will be our destination love. The pay will be ten thousand bits once I have been delivered back here. I will also spot any expenses that we will encounter along the way. Are these terms acceptable to you?" Peony negotiated with her.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season

 

The doors started to open after a brief wait. Natural cleared her throat to introduce herself, when a mare's voice from inside held whoever was holding the handle... A bit perplexed, the earth pony soon saw the owner of that voice, and slightly bowed her head in greeting as the unicorn stared at her. She spoke up when asked about the ad.

 

"Well, yes, miss. My name is Natural Order and I'd like to take that job. I hope it's still on the map, so to speak?" Upon being invited inside, she followed the unicorn and tried her best not to feint from the splendor of the mansion's interior. When they reached the day room, Natural stood straight,  as if afraid of taking a seat or even coming close to all that expensive looking furniture. Thankfully, Peony offered a map on the table to look into, and Natural came to take a peek. "Quite a trek by the look of it..." - she mused aloud, before nearly having a heart attack at the mention of finances. The earth pony quickly nodded, beaten out of rhythm.  "I uhh, yes, they will be most surely acceptable..." Nopony ever offered her even remotely as good an offer for being a guide.

 

Natural Order tried her best to look professional again, and looked at the map. "Jusgimg from the estimated location of the place you'd like to visit, there are several ways we could travel there. First, we can take a train to Dodge City or travel there on hoof. Whichever is more suitable for you, miss Peony. Then,  we can go through the Badlands - and I wouldn't recommend it, Personally - or Hayseed Swamps and into Forbidden Jungle.  It would be... just as dangerous, honestly,  but at least we won't have to worry about water and firewood, and can feed off the land. Cuts costs and makes it a little bit safer."

 

The mare coked her head and thought for a moment, then added. "Or we can reach Baltimare and try to hire a captain crazy enough to ferry us South by the coast,  and then wait till we come back. The last part is a coin toss in my experience..."

 

Natural lifted her head and looked at Peony with a reassuring smile.  "So, which option sounds most appealing?"

[Nightmare Season 617]

@@Raven Rawne,

 

Upon hearing the different ways to get there, Peony thought for a few seconds before deciding. "I do believe that I would prefer to take the way of the swamps. I collect rare flowers and that way may yield some results. As for Dodge City, I can purchase us both a train ticket to take us there. Save on some walk'n at least." Peony then handed the map over to Natural since she would be the navigator.

 

"The flower I seek is a mythical flower that is said that the petals can be used to heal any injury or ailment. I figure it would make a great collection to my garden so I might be able to use it to help ponies out." Peony the excused herself so she could go and get all her things. A few minutes latter she came back to her guest fully ready. Although her dress was a fancy dress wana-be of an adventure outfit. Her saddle bags that held her camping supplies were frilly and lacy. The oddest thing was on her back. a potted flower the likes of which Natural had never seen before.

 

"I think I am ready to the best of my knowledge love. Never done such a thing like this before."

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season,

 

The earth pony nodded with a smile. "Good choice, I'd go that way myself." She thought about something as she tok the map into her foreleg, but broke her concentration once her employer spoke up on the goal of their journey, but the unicorn xcused herself before she could say anything. Natural opened the map again and mused aloud. "A flower that cures everything? Sounds a bit too good to be rue but... maybe?" She started making some plans in her head and stood like on attention in the richly decorated day room until the other mare came back.

 

Natural had a hard time not to facehoof. Hard. That outfit... Everything was wrong with it! All style, no utility. She honestly thought Peony bought it in a theater. And she had a PLANT too?!

 

The mare tried her best to be nice. "I... see. But, why are you taking a potted flower with you? I'm sure somepony can water it for you here."

 

Hearing the explanation why, she had that idea at the back of her head that the unicorn was slightly... off mark? But hey, bits. Natural Order glanced at the way they came from and asked: "Miss Peony, I'd like to show you my wagon, which will serve as both supply trailer and shelter for the duration of the voyage. I pull, of course. And since we know where we're going, I'll need to make some adjustments and make more room inside for your specimens. If it wouldn't be that much of a problem, could I store a few boxes somewhere?"

[Nightmare Season 617]

@@Raven Rawne,

 

Peony was asked about the flower she had on her back. Looking back at it she told Natural about the strange flower. "This here is Flower. It is my friend actually. Now I know I would sound bat crazy, but this particular flower can actually talk love. Though it seems to never talk to other ponies, so it is hard to prove it. Anyways, it knows a lot about different flowers, so I bring it along during flower hunts."

 

Peony thought for a bit about where she could store some of her supplies. Then she thought of a great place. "I guess the garden shed would suffice. No other pony ever goes in there. Also it has a lock on the door to keep the supplies inside safe." She led the way out to the front door. She showed Natural the way to the back of the mansion. There they saw a large flower garden with a huge variety of different flowers. Some so rare that they were ever seen in books.

 

Peony helped as much as she could to move the boxes of Natural's into the shed. She also gathered up a few bags of soil and several pots to allow her to plant in during their trip. All the wile having that strange potted flower sit in the saddle on her back. When the wagon was ready, Peony asked Natural if they needed to go shopping for anything. If they were ready, they could head to the train station.

 

Before they left, Peony asked one of the servants in the kitchen if they could keep her flowers watered while she was gone. Her hope was to leave Canterlot before her parents came home from work.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season

 

The mare nodded. "A shed should be okay. It's nothing precious anyway." 

 

She followed the unicorn out and was relieved to see her wagon unmolested. Pointing with a hoof, she announced whole walking towards it. "My house on wheels.  I know it doesn't look like much, but out in the wild,  firm loses with functionality every time. So where's that shed?"

 

Natural was led to the back of the mansion, and into a flower garden.  Well, seems Peony knows her flowers alright - the mint mare had no idea on half of what was growing out there, to be honest. And she made a living off picking plants,  so that was something. Upon inspecting how much space was available inside the shed, she trotted back to the wagon and started readjusting things, mostly by tossing them outside.  Warm clothes, empty baskets, and a water barrel too, amongst other smaller items found themselves locked in the shed. Peony took some if the freed space with soil and pots, but they were still good on the free space.  Natural put the pots on the high shelves that lined the long walls inside the wagon, and the soil bags took residence in a corner by the small stove at the front. Together with a water barrel in opposite corner by the door,  and the third corner taken by supply crates, the center was free to lay the sleeping bags at least...

 

Natural looked upon her work with satisfaction. When Peony asked if they can leave, or need to buy stuff, she thought for a moment,  then replied. "Actually, yes. We need a hoof full of small nails and mosquito nets. Netting the windows and draping a net on the door frame should be enough for the night. Also, aloe for insect bites. We can pick some on the road too. What more... Are those boots water resistant, Hayseed is very wet and keeping the hooves dry is very important. Other than that... we're good for now.  I'll need to pick some more supplies in Dodge though. No point in buying expensively in Canterlot what we can get there."

[Nightmare Season 617]

@@Raven Rawne,

 

Peony looked down at her boots. "I have no idea if they are water proof or not. I was told they would look good on me if I ever went out for an adventure. As or the Aloe...." She looked around her garden. She then turned back to the flower on her back. "Do you remember where we planted some?" She had asked the plant. No sounds were heard from it, but it seemed Peony heard something and nodded. She then immediately walked over to one bed and pushed some flowers aside to revile the aloe.

 

After Peony picked some, she bought it back over to the wagon. "Got some here love." They had decided the rest of the items they would purchase in Dodge City. The two headed out to the train station. Peony only stopped at the mansion long enough to ask one of the servants to keep her garden watered and not tell her parents where she went. The servant was not to keen on that half though.

 

Peony bought both of the tickets for them. Seems the one thing she did have was bits. As they boarded the train, Peony was acting like a filly on her first time on a train. It was obvious to Natural that this young mare never set hoof outside of Canterlot before.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season,

 

 The earth pony could've expected as much. She added another shop to her mental list when they visit Dodge. "Okay... so we'll run a test later to see what they're worth." Natoral Order seemed perplexed by Peony asking the flower directly, but, since apparently she got some sor of answer that resulted in her finding the aloe... maybe there was some merit in her claim? "Oh this will do nicely. Just give me a moment to seal it up so it won't dry." - The mare walked insode the cart, holding the picked aloe, and put the cur off leaves in a few glass jars to prevent drying too soon.

 

Since there was nothing they had to buy in Canterlot that they wouldn't obtain in Dodge, the mares decided to head to the station. Natural felt ill at ease as they walked the maxe of streets that led to the Canterlot Central Station. She stayed outside when Peony went to buy the tickets and arrange transport for the wagon. The clock on the tower next to the station said it was nearly five, so she took a bite off her supplies when the unicorn was gone. Apparently there was a train straight to Dodge, through Ponyville. It went off Canterlot at seven point ten and would be in their destination on the next day, supposedly at two thirty PM. They had to load the wagon on the train half an hour earlier though.

 

The mares waited for their train, first on the stret by the wagon, and then on a platform once they had to give it away. Most of the time they chatted on flora and various applications of plants. Natural even cracked open one of her note scribbled atlases when they discussed the plants of Hayseed Swamp. Mainly to keep up with the other mare's theoretical knowledge.Once the train arrived, Peony was excited like a filly and Natural was a bit out of her element, again. She didn't travel by train for years now,.. They took their seats in a smaller compartment of the train car. They would unfold the couches when they decide to get some shuteye for the night. For now, both stared out the window as the train slowly rolled off the station.

 

Natural Order relaxed, finally, and decided to bring in some more important topics. "Pardon my straightforwardness, but, is this your first field trip? See, the places we go, they aren't exactly nice, or safe for that matter. now of course I'll do all that's necessary to keep you safe and in good health, but I like to know who I'm travelling with, and whether I can rely on them too. I've been a giude quite a few times, you see."

[Nightmare Season 617]

@@Raven Rawne,

 

Peony looked out the window of the train till the questions started to come. She looked back before answering. Well dear, this is my first time actually. My folks don't like me head'n out on my own, and they typically just stay in Canterlot. The few times they left it, I was to remain home. So I fear my expertise of the road is near to none." Peony then looked down at her plant that she had sitting next to her. "Flower here actually knows more than I do about the world. It can feel other flowers around, So find'n this flower will be easy love."

 

The two of them talked some more with Peony keeping her eyes pilled to the window and the passing of the land outside it. She did not wish to miss anything. Natural found out that she had snuck away without her parents knowing about this little escapade. After they had their meal delivered to them that evening, it was late enough that they went to bed. Peony at first could not sleep. Saying something of the bed was to hard and the sheets not silky smooth. But she finally dosed off at one point.

 

The next morning saw them passing through Ponyvile. Peony was glued to the window at this point. When Natural asked why she was acting like she was looking for some pony, Peony spoke up. "I know this would sound silly love, bit a pony I look up to lives here. Her name is Rarity. I got into fashion because of her work after she opened up a boutique in Canterlot. I was hope'n to see her as we pass by." To her sadness, she did not see her as they started to leave Ponyvile.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@@Nightmare Season,

 

A green leaf if there ever was one. At least Peony knew as much and was being honest with her guide. Natural lost count of ponies who thought they can compnsate their lack of experience with bravado, only to have them dragged back to the nearest doctor. if they're lucky, that is.

 

She smiled reassuringly at the unicorn. "It's okay, as long as you heed my advice and be honest with me, we should be good. Now about the places we'll visit..." - Natural tried to fill Peony in on what to expect, in broad sense, from Dodge, Hayseed and the Jungle. she herself usually strayed away from the last one, because it was so hard to move around with a wagon. But she had a lick of it's peculiar dangers. Eventually, the train service offered them supper, and the earth pony was rather pleased with the meal. But then, she was used to dried rations and leaf salads, so maybe she had lowered expectations. The bedding was also pretty decent, but Peoony's grumbling and the steady thumpong of the train ade it hard to get some proper rest. Eventually, the mare dosed off.

 

Morning came, but not with the sunlight, but a shrieking noise of a steam whistle - the train scared something away from the tracks, no doubt. Natural Order sprung upright like she was in danger, but, looking around, found none. Her jump start seemed to wake Peony, so they may just as well start the day. With no clock to consult, it was Past Dawn, Pre Noon. In other words, morning. And the train seemed to be closing on Ponyville.

 

Natural was glancing off the window occasionally, but mostly lounged in her couch and tried not to think of her empty pipe. Her mind was much more interested in getting a bag of tobacco in her hooves than what was going on outside, but, eventually, she had to ask: "Are you... looking for somepony? It's like your nose got glued to the window, you see..." Upon getting an answer, she thought for a moment, and said, seemingly to herself - "Rarity? Hmm, that would make sense..."

 

Their breakfast came soon after the train left Ponyville station. Natural wasn't picky this time either, and a warm meal she didn't have to gather and cook herself sure improved her mood. The pony who brought them breakfast said it was nine AM, and they were half an hour late. Something about crossing a bridge in repair during the night. There was one moe on their way, and the mare sure hoped it was in good shape - Ghastly Gorge is a poor place to fall into.

 

Turns out, the ride was pretty smooth, and the Gorge looked, ahem, gorgeous from above. Although the dark shadow of the Everfree Forest to the left was a bit unsettling. The only place on the map where Natural didn't want to go unless the pay was very, very good. The train had to stop once in the middle of nowhere to pick water, and the passengers could stretch their legs around the service station that was built to accomodate the water ressuply. Both mares could notice the land was starting to look dry, with browns and yellows replacing greens. The trees were few and far between, and the ground was covered in tall yellowy grass.

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne,

Peony looked around at the scorched land. She did not like it one bit. "I do not like this place one bit. The land is to dry. Also there is no good soil around. I feel bad for any flowers that tries to grow out here." After the train had filled up on the water, the whistle blew to announce they would be leaving soon, and for all ponies to return. The rest of the trip was uneventful. Just sand and a few cactus out the window so Peony did not care for the view.

 

upon arriving in Dodge city, the two mares got off and unloaded the wagon that would be their home for the next few days. Natural's fist thought was for them to head into town for the rest of their shopping. She also wanted to make sure her employer was properly dressed and not wearing such a silly dress that tried to make adventure look like a fashion. Peony agreed and listened to her about her attire. She did know best Peony thought, so she just followed her to the city stores.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

Natural Order stretched her legs so much her joints were popping. She seemed very content with being out og the metal can, even temporarily. Hearing Peony's remark, and seeing her in that pretty "adventure" outfit made her snicker, suddenly remembering a poster of some "Daring Do" book a few months back.

"Heh, yeah. It's hard to get water in here, compared to other places. The Badlands would be even worse, that's why I offered to avoid them. Oh and, I don't think there are any flowers in here. Just tall grass, some shubs, and those trees."

She walked around, trying to get as much movement as possible before getting confined to the train car again. Unfortunately for her, the locomotive was ready to roll after just half an hour or so. Natural wsn't particularly thrilled hearing the whistles, and the rest of their trip went in rather gloomy spirits - her employer seemed not to like the view, and she just wanted to hit the road already.

 

Finally, at... nearly four PM, if the clock on the small end station was right, they were in Dodge City. Natural Order felt better in the familliar frontier town. They had to wait on the platform for the wagon, but, upon reuniting with her mobile home and checking everything was in place, Natural decided to make use of the rest of today shopping. So the mares went to town, starting with a general goods store.

 

They walked into a spacious store owned by an elderly couple of earth ponies. Natural seemed to know them, and had some small talk as they picked their wares - some preserved food, roughly for a week, mosquito nests, water resistant matches, pure distilled alcohol and bandages... they had a nice stack and the mare snuck in a bag of tobacco, but in the end, decided to pay from her iron reserve  Later they visited a hardware store to buy those nails, and a clothier and shoemaker respectively, to get something road worthy for Peony. sturdy water resistants hoofboots were a must, but other than shat, Natural just gave her pointers what could be useful and why, so the other mare could make her picks, this time with somepony who knew what she needed at hoof. Since it was getting late, and they both could use a meal, Natural led them to an inn, "Wind of the Frontier" - a nice, middle class place for adventuring types and more. Natural and Peony bought a bigger room with two beds, and, once that was done, the mint mare went back to her safely parked wagon to prepare it for tomorow - mostly repackage their goods and install the nets, but also to grab her crossbow and bring it upstairs. She always slept better knowing it's within reach...

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

 

Dodge City was very different than what Peony was use to seeing. Hardly any decorative pieces, and a whole lot of sand. The ponies were all wearing similar outfits that were plan. Peony mostly just followed Natural around as she led her to the different stores. Listening and watching her, Peony tried to take in as much as she could. Her first adventure away from the comforts of home. She did not want to look to bad.

 

After Peony was given a proper lecture on the proper attire for going off into the unknown, she eventually picked a better pair of "duds". Though she did not like the fashion of them. The store pony even offered her to buy her old dress for three times what she would pay for her new outfit. Peony however refused and simply paid for the outfit. She stored the fancy dress away in the wagon.

 

The inn took her even more by surprise. The food was hardly flavored, the plate arrangement was not there at all. And the large room they rented for the night was even more outlandish. Peony mostly remained quiet. Seeing as how her guide was perfectly fine with their accommodation. When the two mare were getting ready to turn in for the night, Peony finally spoke up for a question. "All of this is just so strange to me love. Though I will trust that you know best. What might be our next plans from the morn'n?"

 

She listened as Natural gave her a heads up on what to expect from this point onward. Some of it gave her a shiver, but she will just grin and bear it best she could. She had her heart and mind set on finding the Eternal Bloom.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

 

Natural went into the common room of the inn, carrying her hefty crossbow on her thin back. The innkeep rolled his eyes from over the counter as she grinned sheepishly. They talked about it enough times already. The patrons also took notice - some made remarks or joked out loud but, the mare was in no hurry to make another brawl so soon. Besides, it was harmless humor, even if rough. She just laughed it off and went upstairs to the rented room, knocking before entering.

 

"Sorry about the delay, had to prep everything for tomorrow. It's so good to just end the day in a proper inn..." - the mint mare sighed with relief and went about her evening routine, setting the weapon aside. They had real showers here, even if there wasn't much warm water in the boiler, and the room was clean and rather spacious for an inn. She noticed her employer was rather quiet, but didn't know her well enough to tell if it was normal, so decided to not push it.

 

She was sitting in bed and checking her crossbow - a redundant habit, but it was mostly for comfort rather than fnctionality - when Peony finally spoke up. Natural was a bit startled with a sudden voice, since she wasn't really used for comapny, and looked up at the unicorn with a reassuring smile. "I could say the same about Canterlot. But it's not that hard to get used to it, really." She scratched her scalp, pondering, then continued. "I figured it will be easiest to follow the road South till we nearly reach the Badlands, and turn East into Hayseed. Should save us some time and effort that way. Once we head into the swamps, it will get much harder, you see. We need to keep to dry patches and tracts or we'll lose the wagon - and I'd rather not lose it. Thee are quite a few paths we can travel, but most of them are very old and in various states of disrepair, so we may have to  improvise on the go to make the route traversible. I know some ruins here and there to shelter us for the night. It's not much but better than just parking in a random place. A bit safer too. Speaking of which, the Swamps and the Jungle are not really pony friendly, you see. Predatory animals, poisonous animals, poisonous plants, predatory plants... swamps, quicksands, you name it, they have it. But I've been there numerous times and still have all hooves, so you're safe with me, no worries. I think we'll make it to the edge of the jungle in... two days? The going is slow in there, and it will only get slower once we reach the jungle, since there are no roads there. So I'll have to cut a path for the wagon. Not looking forward to it but, that's where the temple is..." She yawned and covered her mouth hith a foreleg, then petted the crossbow and put it by the bed. "Uhh, that's my cue. We'll leave in the morning when we get up, but better do that earlier - it's hot in here later in the day. Goodnight miss peony, and don't hesitate to wake me up if you need me, okay?"

 

Natural Order buried herself in the fresh sheets and soon dosed off to sleep.

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

 

Peony listened to the extensive list the mare gave to her about the dangers ahead. She was not looking forward to any of that at all. However, if the reward was the flower, then she would overcome it hopefully.  Peony just laid there for some time thinking. She also thought on rather telling her guide what else the flower was known to do besides heal any ailments and injuries. She decided it probably would be best not to say. Best way to keep a secret after all was to also keep it from your friends.

 

By the time Peony realized, the clock struck midnight. There was so much on her mind that she could not fall asleep. Looking over at Natural Order, she saw she was out cold. Peony then turned to her side and tried to get some sleep.

 

The next morning Peony woke up to her company waking her up, telling her she slept in long enough. "Oh sorry dear, I had a rough time settling in for a proper rest." She finished that off with a yawn. Looking around, Natural had already moved their things to the wagon and was all set to hit the road. Peony got up and washed up. Though Natural thought it was not needed how long it took Peony to freshen up and do her hair up in the various flowers. Odd how they still looked and even smelled like freshly picked. She then put on her new outfit with some hesitation to the lack of any style or fashion.

 

As Peony made her way outside, the wagon was already packed and ready to go. "Well, I guess this marks my official first expedition away from home. Bet my parents are raising hell right about now." She gave a sweat smile to her guide.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

 

Morning. At least by the sound of it. Natural Order woke up to nothing in particular and, for a moment, considered just putting a pillw on her head and taking those five more minutes, but, knowing her responsibilities, she decided to at least listen in to her surrounding. There was a faint echo from underneath, so apparently there were ponies in the common rrom. Also some noises from outside so... yeah, morning at the very least. She rubbed one eye open with a foreleg and looked around. Peony was asleep, and there was sunlight peeking in through the curtains. With a sigh, the mint mare got herself out of the nice bed and went into the bathroon for her morning routine. Better savour the comforts while you can, right? 

 

She got herself in shape and form before quietly heading out of the room, lugging a few bags and that crossbow of hers. Some ponies were eating breakfast in the common room and the mare decided to have some too, once she's done with prepping the wagon for the road. It took a lot of willpower to put off a smoke for later though.The weather was just great for sitting in the wagon doors and puffing the pipe like she had no worries. Hopefully her employer won't mind her vice...

 

It was nearly ten AM and Peony was still sleeping. Natiral even ae and got herself dressed for the road, in sturdy bown hoof boots, a loose, dark green cloak, and her favourite green hat with a feather. Finally, enough was enough and she went upstairs to wake up the unicorn. Very gently poking herthrough the sheets, Natural managed to bring Peont back to the waking world. "Sorry for waking you up, but we gotta go. It'll be noon soon enough." The earth pony gave her employer the time she needed to get ready, even is she herself thought it took forever and a half. "Think of the bits" - she thought to herself while pacing around and looking out the window while waiting. It was hard not to facehoof seeing Peony weave her intricate flowery mane do, and how she seemed reluctant to wear the styleless, yet practical, stuff they bought yesterday. Finally, the bill was paid and they were out of the door. Natural checked her crossbow and quiver with bolts, hanging off nails on the front side of her wagon. Hearing Peony announce the beginning of her first expedition, she smirked. "Heh, mine were reluctant at first, but I spent so much time outdoors growing up that the forests around Tall Tale were like back yeard to me. Guess they had some time to adjust, since I was gradually walking further away from home over several years, before finally hitting the road for good..." She ran a hoof over the crossbow, smiling, before coming round to her present company. "Ehh, sorry, memories and all. If you're still sleepy then I guess you could try and catch some z's in the wagon, but it won't be very comfortable while on the move. Anyway, we should head out if we want to keep our schedule."

 

Natural Order strapped herself to the harness, and rocked the wagon off it's stasis before taking a step forward and pulling it with all her small weight. A cractised technique, apparently, since it worke and they were on the move, walking out of Dodge City and onto the road South. Soon after, and nearing mid day, they were on said road, kicking red dust from under hooves and wheels. To the right, the grasslands, and an occasional farm or side road that led... somewhere. To the left, a slight decrease in terrain and thick, dark vegetation of the Hayseed Samp. Only occasionally, there was a route leading into a small, and more often than not, overgrown, opening in the green wall. Normally it took Natural around six hours of walking to reach the point where she turned into Hayseed, so they will have to take a stop to eat something before that. 

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

Peony watched as her companion rocked the wagon and started to pull it forward. It looked heavy to her and hoped that Natural would be able to pull the large wagon. On the road, Peony had her head on a shrivel, Looking this way and that at the country side. Mostly she was looking for flowers along the way, but she was also looking at the strange landscape that she found herself in. On her back she carried that strange flower in the pot. Almost as if it mattered.

 

Peony looked at all the roads and paths that led into the swamp, thinking that was their way in. However, Natural just kept walking. Peony was getting a bit sore at this point. She was not use to walking so far, and in such boots. After a few more hours, Natural finally took a turn and headed to the swamp. Before they entered, Natural called out for lunch time. Peony was grateful for that news.

"Thank the stars. My hooves are simply kill'n me. Never walked so far in my life before. Though don't worry love, I will not let this keep me from continue." Peony helped Natural best she could to set up a little area to eat on, and to unpack the food they would eat. The food was so basic, Peony tried to wrap her head around such eating. She did however eat what was given to her.

 

When Lunch was over, the reverse of unpacking went back into the wagon. "So this is the swamp? Guess I will have to keep my head. With the warn'ns you gave me about them."

 

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

 

The mint mare quickly established a steady pace - relaxed, but not too slow. She habitually panned around her surroundings, golden eyes acting like little pendulums under the shade of her hat. Thankfully, things seemed to be quiet around these parts. Some old tracks here and there, few belonging to things she wouldn't like to meet in pony, but not a cause for alarm, or to alert he employer. Speaking of whom, miss Peony seemed to be taking the road rather well, for a city mare. Although carrying that flower around seemed rather... redundant.

 

Thehlls in the distance marked the beginning of Badlands, and Natural decided it was time to take the turn. It was also a good time to stop and have a meal. She wasn't sure whether to make stops for the other mare's sake or not, but decided that she would probably say so if needs be, right? So upon seeing a turn into Hayseed that looked promising enough, they took a turn and made a picnic stop on the old tract before the treeline.

 

"So that's the easier part of the hard part done, miss Peony. So far so good it seems..." - She unhooked herself off the harness and stretched, then walked towards the wagon entrance, listening to theother mare's remark. "If you need more breaks, just say so. No shame in admitting one's tired. I'm not cast iron either, and need a break every once in a while, like now." The mint mare went inside and fished out whatever she needed to make a meal on the go. Granted, the chow was cold and made of salads, sandwitches and the like, but there was,t enough time to make fire and fancier meals, they had a place to get to before nightfall.

 

"Yep, Hayseed Swamp in it's damp, stinking glory. Never liked this area to be honest. Buuut there are some pricy things to gather there. Also nasty things harassing ponies that want said things put down. But let's stick to the plan for now." - She led the two mare caravan into the dusky realm. The Sun made God Rays as it peaked through dense canopies all the way to the ground. Their ears were assaulted with the noise of frogs, insects, birds, and occasinally, something else. There air was damp and not entirely pleasant, but bearable. They kept to an old road, now a rise between pools of murky water and dark green weeds. it was rather hard to ell when the water ended and the land started with all that vegetation. Natural was smoking a pipe and puffing at any mosquitoes she saw near her face, which proved rather effective. as they walked, the amount of insects lessened somewhat, so maybe tehe smoke was doing something.

 

They found their way obstructed several times, mosly by overgrown bushes and spider webs that were too big for comfort. Sometimes an animal could be heard somewhere, dashing off away from the intruders. Natural occasionally pointed a forelef at some plant and announce what it is and ad a price tag to it. Even stopped once and jumped on a broken tree trunk to gather some overhanging moss, saying it's good for fighting infections and may be useful.

 

Mindful of her company, and becuase it was more tiresome to pull the wagon in these conditions, Natural made litle breaks every now nad then, when they checked their boots to make sure their legs were still dry. It was getting darker than usual when the mares reached... someting. "Al, thought I missed it! This will e our place for the night." - Natural pointed at a dark shape that looked like... nothing in particular really. Only when they were really close, it could be seen that it was, in fact, a house. well, stone walls overgrown by vines and moss, since the roof was long gone, along with any wood or metal really. The main doors and windows were stuffed and barricaded but a broken down portion of one wall alowed entrance for their wagon. It seemed that a tree fell there and some ponies made use of the crumbled stone to rearrange the place. So there was some elevated stone floor in one corner, maybe for sleping? Also a round fire place. Natural parked the wagon so that it blocked the entryway, and began setting camp for the night. Now she had her crossbow within reach at all times. "We'll sleep in the wagon, it's safer that way, but till then we need to make fire and have some decent meal. Dry up too. And keep out ears perked for any trouble...." The earth pony was alert, but at leat seemed to know what she was doing. Since there wasn't a single speck of dry grass around, she had charcoal from an earlier fire as a firestarter, and only then added fallen branches into it. Night has fallen and the fire provided warmth and light as the Swamp seemed to fall silent, if not for those frogs...

 

 

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

 

Peony took her first step into the swamp. At first, everything went just fine. The road was dry and easy to follow. Nothing was really bothering her, except for the lack of flowers. All this changed rather quickly. Mosquitoes started to assault the poor mare. Several times did Peony have to swat at one or two that was trying to get a free meal out of her. Once when she was preoccupied with an especially annoying buzzing one around her snout, she tripped on a branch and landed into the mud on the side of their path. She got back to her hooves in a muddy mess.

 

Further along, Peony noticed the bugs were starting to leave her alone now. Guess they did not like the muddy pony. Natural started to gather up various plants she spotted along the way. That gave Peony a moment to rest her aching legs. As Natural gave a list and price tag to each, Peony seemed to listen to the flower on her back at some points. The medicinal ones, Peony always replied they would come in handy.

 

Onward they walked, now the overgrowth was more prominent on the path. Peony met the mud a few more times tripping over shrubs or branches she did not notice in time. By the time they reached their night time camp, poor peony was covered in mud and twigs. She looked hilarious, though Natural seemed to keep from laughing. Peony looked around at the stone ruin. "Not exactly a five hoof resort, though I am so beat I could just fall asleep anywhere. First however love....I need to get properly washed up." She looked at her body covered in mud, twigs and leaves. Some pony might mistake me for a swamp monster lok'n like I do."

 

As Natural got a fire started up, Peony was at a water area that had somewhat of a clean water to it. She did her best to get herself looking proper again. By the time she got back to the fire, the night had fallen upon them. A warm meal was being cooked up and was smelling great. Sadly however, the mosquitoes also found a healthy meal in the now clean mare from the city.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

 

Peony came back inside the ruined house just as Natural Order was prepping a warm stew from what she had stored and some of the plants she picked up on the go. The water came from a barrel though. She looked up at the wet mareand pointed to a smooth stone by the fire. "Take a seat, miss Peony, dry yourself up by the fire. Stew's nearly ready. Not really canterlot type of meal, but good enough to keep a pony going. Added some herbs to help prevent common illnesses, last thing we need is a fever or something." She noticed the other mare swatting mosquitoes away, and seemed to ponder over something with a wooden spoon in her teeth. "Hmm, gotta be some around... maybe tomorrow." - she said to nopony in particular.

 

She served the thick stew in wooden bowls - seems it was the leading material for plates and silverware in her wagon. At least the pot was made of metal, along with the cooking stand. Natural was hungry alright, and eagerly ate the warm meal, and then took to cleaning up as the fire continued to burn. Somethingbig announced it's presence with an echoing roar, thankfully far away. It caused the mint mare to instincrively leap to her weapon, and only once she was holding the primed crossbow did she seem to regain her senses and put it away with a sigh. "Oof, good it was far away... Murky water and mosquitoes aren't exactly the worst that can happen in these parts. Are you diy? cause we need to put down the fire, lest it attracts it." - Natural seemed pretty worked up by whatever announced it's presence a moment ago, and wanted to hide their presence. All in all, she appeared to be perfectly content with ducking under the wagon if given the offer, but tried to stay calm and collected, as much as possible at least. Her hurry shortened the night camping considerably as the mares withdrew inside the wagon for the night.

 

Naural had two sleeping bags put on the floor, and there wasn't much free space left inside, to be honest. She lit a small oil lamp and kept the windows shut - the mosquito nets sure made a difference once they swatted the few that flew in with them. She as sitting by the closed doors, holding he crossbow and listening in when she began a hushed conversation. "Sorry for the panic, but it sounded like a Hydra, and I'm not a fan of these. Not after one made me run for my life that is. I'll keep watch some more, but we should be in the clear. I advise you get some rest, miss Peony, tomorrow won't be any easier. If things go well, we'll spend the night in another semi hospitable place near the Jungle. That's when the toughest part starts, since there are no roads there. No way of telling how long it will take to rach that temple of yours..." She surpressed a yawn and rubbed her eyes. "Damn, wouldn't mind a place in some comfy inn..."

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

Peony was so hungry that she ate the stew and did not think twice about the lack of flavor. Peony dropped her bowl and cowered behind a stone wall as a large creature made a loud roar off in the distant. She watched as the mare leaped and took up arms with her crossbow. She was relived to hear that it was a long ways off. Peony simply nodded when asked if she was dry. She was still to scared to even speak up at the moment.

 

As soon as the fire was out, Peony was the first to get into the wagon where she felt a bit safer. Peony placed the potted plant down next to her bed roll and climbed on in. Natural started talking about a hydra. However, Peony did not hear it all The long day was to much for her, and as soon as she laid her head down on a comfy pillow, she went straight off to sleep. When Natural Order mentioned the comfy inn, she noticed that the flowery mare was already long out.

 

Natural Order woke up with the sun rising. Instead of the simple sounds of the swamps, she heard Peony talking to some pony. Though she did not hear who she was speaking to. "I told you I will be alright love. I am not to concerned with gett'n muddy...............Well yes, I looked horrendous yesterday, but the mud did help keep those blood suckers off me.................Oh? You know of a flower that will repel them? Let me know when we get close to one then please?...............No, no. I will not do anything to silly today. I think I will be a bit better off today. I know what to expect now................What about her?...............Hmm..I don't know if we should tell her. I mean...it should be something we keep a secret right?.............No I am not ly'n to her. I just did not say the full story love. So what is the flower called that helps with those annoying little buzz'n blood suck'n bugs?...........Oooo, a marigold? Those are very pretty. I did not know they acted as bug repellent. Need to remember that.............No I am not just chang'n the subject. Imagine what she will say if I told her? She may just leave us out here and head that way herself.

 

Natural Order finally opened the door to her wagon. There sitting by the campfire pit was Peony Spring tying her mane up in a tight fashionable bun using the same flowers from the past two days. Surly they should have started to wilt by now. Looking around, she did not see any other pony or creature around for her to be talking to. Then she noticed her potted flower sitting next to her. Peony had heard the door open and turned her head to look. "Morn'n sweaty, might you have slept well? I am just getting my mane and tail done up in a better style to face the road ahead.

[Raven Rawne 1,381]

@Nightmare Season

 

Natural Order glanced at her companion, after another yawn, and shook her head. "Already asleep... As if she never walked further than to and from a carriage before." She decided to stay put for a cople more minutes, and lock the wagon before heading to sleep herself.

 

The hard wagon floor wasn't xactly comfy, but she liked sleeping on hard surfaces. Natural woke up as usual, around Dawn. Looking around, she noticed the other mare was gone, and that was strange. The mint mare crawled out of the sleeping bag and grabbed her crossbow, then listened in to her surroundings before opening the doors. She was just outside, talking to somepony? But who? No answers could be heard... Natural Order slowly opened the wagon doors, ready to put a bolt through anything that would just as much as poke it's head in front of her.

 

Nothing took the opportunity to pounce at her, and the earth pony mare saw Peony a bit further, by the campfire pit, talking to that flower? "Well that explains it." - she deadpanned, removing the bolt from the crossbow and making a dry shot, hence announcing her presence.

 

"Well enough, it's a bit of an aquired taste, sleeping on the floor." - Natural smiled slightly and put away her weapon, then jumped off the wagon and looked around, squinting at the Sun. "Hmm, good weather, for Hayseed at least. Shouldn't rain at least." The mare alked to the dead fireplace and peeked at the blackened branches. "Should be good for the evening fire." A glance at the other mare's mane and tail made her frown somewhat. "Aren't those supposed to wilt by now? It's been a while since they got picked, even if you have a whole bag of them... Sorry, not my business, I'll get the breakfast done and we'll hit the road."

[Nightmare Season 617]

@Raven Rawne

 

Peony looked up at the sky with the mention of the nice weather. A hoof met her neck to kill yet another mosquito. "At least that is a pleasant thing amongst these horrid bugs." Natural then asked about her flowers she used to tie up her mane and tail. "Oh these old things? I picked some of them a few months back." Peony noticed her company step back once and gave her a crazy look. Peony giggled slightly at that. "Oh dear me. Sorry for not letting you know sooner love. My special talent allows cut flowers to live for a very long time."

 

Peony gave her a sweat smile. She then watched Natural gather up some of the charcoal to take with them for latter that day. Once the wagon was all set for travel, the two continued on through the murky swamp to a more dry and warmer location. Yet again, the city pony found herself assaulted with bugs of all kinds and even tripping a few times. Thankfully not a full mud bath like yesterday.

 

A good time into their walking, Peony spoke up. "Excuse me, Natural sweaty. Mind if we stop our advance for a wee bit please? Flower says it can feel a marigold growing nearby." Natural at first did not see what she was talking about. She thought it was just her way of asking for a rest without showing how tired she was. But to her amazement, Peony started to walk around, almost as if taking orders for a hot and cold game. Eventually, Peony "Did" find a marigold growing there.

"Oh goody. Thank you FLower, This will at least help keep me from being a feast." Natural watched as Peony cast some strange magic over the flowers she had picked. They seemed to have grown in vitality as well. "There we go, should last six months before they loose their scent." Peony then tied the new flowers into her mane and tail. She came back to Natural with a grin, and fewer mosquitoes.

 

Farther down the trail, if it could be called that anymore. Peony tried to climb over a log and slipped. She fell off it and landed in hanging vines. Natural was ahead of her and could not see her. She only heard Peony scream and said to let her go. Grabbing her bow and unhooking herself from the harness She raced back behind the wagon to stop what ever it was that grabbed the mare.

 

Natural had to try hard not to laugh seeing what happened to Peony. Peony had somehow managed to get tangled hanging upside down over a large mud hole. The only way she could see to help her, was to shoot the main load bearing vine. With a well placed shot, Peony found herself going head first into the murky mud below her. Coming up, she was covered in muck and debris from the yucky swamp.

 

This was the breaking point for her and she started to cry. "This place is simply dreadful..*sniff*...it is out to get me....*sniff*. All...All I wanted, was the eternal bloom....*sniff*. Just look at me....*sniff*...I look simple terrible." Natural helped pull her out of the muck and wipe off her muzzle. tears mixing with the mud.

 

After Peony washed it off she noticed a strange black squirmy thing on her side. "Is that.....What I think it is?" As Natural Order told her that was a leech. Peony simply did a strange giggle sound and then feinted.