open The Town That Friendship Forgot

[Samurai Equine 51,442]

@Astral Vision, @Windy Breeze 🥧

Trilby nods when hears the explanation Astral gives. "Oh, I see. He was giving everypony parting gifts before he left town. Makes sense. ... Wait a second, if he was giving everypony parting gifts, then that means..." Trilby's face caves in when he makes the realization. His front hooves instantly come up to his cheeks. "When he made that order, he was giving ME a gift; the gift of his patronage!! I'm always complaining about how little business I get, and how I had so much spare Japonies silk. He commissioned that order so I would have a customer, and I didn't even thank him for it!" Trilby then leans over, his back to everyone, feeling like a heel.

But then, he hears something about a gaming tournament, and perks up. "...Gaming tournament? That sounds important. Shadow, would you like to attend? I feel like I might need to be there, but I'm not sure what I can do. At the very least, I can try and sell merch there. I did manage to sell a few t-shirts and hats at the kart race a few days ago."

@Ragland Tiger, @Kronos the Revenant

Well, her identity has been revealed. With a hint of a giggle, she hugs Bluebell back. "Yep. That's me, Fizzlepop Berrytwist. But you can call me Tempest Shadow. It's gotten really popular, and I don't want to ruin anypony's fun. As for my business, I'm here on Princess Twilight Sparkle's official order to see Bluebell. That should be enough, shouldn't it? If you've got any further concerns, take it up with her." Tempest/Fizzlepop explains to Kaiser. She then turns to Bluebell. "Now then, would you mind showing me around this odd little town of yours? I've been curious about it ever since Twilight asked me to find it."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine

@Astral Vision

Shadow's ears perk up in courtosity “A Game Tournament?” she began to ponder about joining the tournament. It would be fun if she joins but she could possibly also become a laughing stock if she is one of the first contestants to lose. She thought of this for a moment before replying.

“Sure, I might as well tell Keen, she is much of a gamer than me” she said.

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

@Samurai Equine @Ragland Tiger

Kaiser pointed his mace into the air and a green beam of light shot out of it. Suddenly, Kronos appeared next to Kaiser emerging from some Tartarus-esque portal. 
 

“So,” Kronos said, “An emissary from the Princess herself is here? Who may that be?” He then sees Tempest Shadow. “Who the heck are you?”

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Dynamo Pad

"Y'know, public image? I guess that's not a term you know if you don't follow the stuff. I'm not a studious pony at all though! I'm, uhh... selectively smart? That's it! Wait, that sounds bad..."

She confused herself before smiling weakly.

"The beach would be fun. There are pools in Manehattan but rarely do I ever see the ocean. You gotta take me! I'll wear something super cute if you do."

With a mischievous smile, Pastel seemed to be cheering up... until...

@C. Thunder Dash @Dynamo Pad

Pastel was getting upset. "Missy"? "For your own good"? He was looking down on her, like a child, she thought. She couldn't stand adults like this. What's more she was bringing Dynamo into it, flaring her up even more. This wasn't like her usual self at all. She was tearing up and about to give Thundy a big verbal spanking, and possibly say something hurtful too until Dynamo pulled her into a hug. All the frustration went away as she hugged him, wiping her tears away. She was surprised that he stook up for her like that. He really was different. She hugged him tight.

"Who cares if I'm prideful...? I'm me. I can't be nopony else. I won't be anypony else. I don't need any half hearted advice from arrogant adults who don't know me at all... I wanna make ponies smile. And, I wanna make you smile too, Dyny. Thanks for standing up for me."

A little misty eyed, she smiled up at Dynamo in a way she never had before. She was grateful. Whatever old wounds were salted by Thundys words were starting to go back down.

[Ragland Tiger 3,392]

@Kronos the Revenant  @Samurai Equine

Bluebell stepped forward and looked straight at Kronos.  "P-please sir," she said firmly, "This-this is m-m-my friend Tempest Shadow.  Sh-sh-she was sent h-here to-to see me, n-n-nothing more."

Edited August 22, 2020 by Ragland Tiger

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

@Ragland Tiger @Samurai Equine

Kronos looked at Bluebell, then at Tempest. He got really close to the deep purple unicorn. He observed her as he circled her. 
 

With a curious grunt, he tells Tempest, “You have the build of a warrior. I can respect that. Name’s Kronos, Envoy of Ragnarok and current protector of this village.” He stuck out his claw for a friendly shake and said, “Pleased to make your acquaintance.”

Edited August 22, 2020 by Kronos the Revenant

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Pastel Heart @Dynamo Pad

"Look, I'm sorry okay? I was just trying to give advice. We all aren't perfect but calling me awful and arrogant was just disrespectful and uncalled for." Thundy said back. He felt really bad that Pastel took his advice the wrong way, and didn't want to hurt her any further, but at the same time, he felt that Pastel was indeed a little prideful. Chelsea heard the exchange and went beside Thundy. "Pastel...it's...it's really how you look at it. Just because you may not agree with all that he says...doesn't mean you...call him awful...." Chelsea said. Thundy reached over and stroked Chelsea's mane lovingly, causing her to lean in to Thundy, purring gently.

[Samurai Equine 51,442]

@Kronos the Revenant, @Ragland Tiger

"I could ask you the same." Tempest was all ready getting annoyed by the arrival of a third gate keeper, but she really didn't like the way Kronos circled her. She was getting more irritated than the time she was being sized up to be a potential slave. Though the tip of her horn was beginning to glow, she was actually building up magic in her back hoof, rubbing and digging it into the ground to hide whatever she was building up with her magic. She was getting ready to launch a surprise attack if this went on any further. She promised the princess she wouldn't resort to this, but if all else fails...

Oh.
She drops her guard as soon as he starts to compliment her and offer his claw. "You are the strangest pony I think I've ever met." She gives a surprised yet still smug smirk, and raises her hoof so they can shake on it. "Sometime, I should tell you about the battalion I use to lead, Mister...?" Tempest looks for a name.

It looks like Bluebell is going get to spend time with Shadow after all.

@Astral Vision, @Windy Breeze 🥧

"I didn't know Keen was into video games. This might be interesting. I've hardly played them myself." Trilby says. He wasn't really thinking of being a competitive player, but if Shadow were to sweet talk him into it, Trilby would definitely pick up a controller and compete in the tournament!

[Dynamo Pad 11,311]

8 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Dynamo Pad

"Oh of course, there was no way that I was getting on Pastel for that. Just reminding her to stay humble, you know how it is right Dynamo?" Thundy asked looking at Dynamo who's ears had fallen. Thundy wasn't certainly arguing with Pastel, he was simply giving her friendly advice, which could go a long way. 

@Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection @C. Thunder Dash

"I'm not sure. I mean, I guess I can see what you're trying to say, but it could have been worded a little bit better." Dynamo sighed, knowing that Thundy wasn't trying to be rude, but he was more worried about Pastel's well being.

54 minutes ago, Pastel Heart said:

@Dynamo Pad

"Y'know, public image? I guess that's not a term you know if you don't follow the stuff. I'm not a studious pony at all though! I'm, uhh... selectively smart? That's it! Wait, that sounds bad..."

She confused herself before smiling weakly.

"The beach would be fun. There are pools in Manehattan but rarely do I ever see the ocean. You gotta take me! I'll wear something super cute if you do."

With a mischievous smile, Pastel seemed to be cheering up... until...

@C. Thunder Dash @Dynamo Pad

Pastel was getting upset. "Missy"? "For your own good"? He was looking down on her, like a child, she thought. She couldn't stand adults like this. What's more she was bringing Dynamo into it, flaring her up even more. This wasn't like her usual self at all. She was tearing up and about to give Thundy a big verbal spanking, and possibly say something hurtful too until Dynamo pulled her into a hug. All the frustration went away as she hugged him, wiping her tears away. She was surprised that he stook up for her like that. He really was different. She hugged him tight.

"Who cares if I'm prideful...? I'm me. I can't be nopony else. I won't be anypony else. I don't need any half hearted advice from arrogant adults who don't know me at all... I wanna make ponies smile. And, I wanna make you smile too, Dyny. Thanks for standing up for me."

A little misty eyed, she smiled up at Dynamo in a way she never had before. She was grateful. Whatever old wounds were salted by Thundys words were starting to go back down.

Looking down at the young mare, Dynamo nodded as he had a look of realization. "Oh, I see. I guess that would make sense now that you put it that way. I suppose that's something I'll go through. when it comes to getting sponsored through video games, tournaments and such." He smiled, before shaking his head. "I don't think that's true. I'm not entirely sure what selectively smart means, but I think you're smart in many things and in your own way." He blushed at her mentioning of something cute, but he still nodded his head nonetheless. "Okay and that sounds like fun. I haven't gone swimming in a while. That, and I haven't gone to the shore in quite al long time. So, I think it would be fun for us and the whole group to go on."

He was about to continue speaking, but stopped as he saw the tears building up in Pastel's eyes. He gasped and frowned as he felt heartbroken seeing Pastel in such pain. He continued to hug her tight, while placing his chin upon the top of her head. "That's all you can be, Pastel-chan. You don't have to be anything or anyone, but yourself. That's all I, the others, or anyone can ever ask. There will always be critics and those that have their opinion. However, what truly matters is what you think. You have plenty of time to do the best that you can and prove any arrogant adult wrong. I think making ponies and others smile is such a great goal." He spoke softly, but it was enough for her and the others to hear. All the while, stroking her mane gently to help keep her calm. After a few minutes, he pulled back from the hug. Looking down a the young mare with a smile, he used his front hooves to help wipe any stray tear away from her eyes. "You're welcome and it's no problem, Pastel-chan. I just worry about you and I hope that you'll be okay."

44 minutes ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Pastel Heart @Dynamo Pad

"Look, I'm sorry okay? I was just trying to give advice. We all aren't perfect but calling me awful and arrogant was just disrespectful and uncalled for." Thundy said back. He felt really bad that Pastel took his advice the wrong way, and didn't want to hurt her any further, but at the same time, he felt that Pastel was indeed a little prideful. Chelsea heard the exchange and went beside Thundy. "Pastel...it's...it's really how you look at it. Just because you may not agree with all that he says...doesn't mean you...call him awful...." Chelsea said. Thundy reached over and stroked Chelsea's mane lovingly, causing her to lean in to Thundy, purring gently.

Dynamo looked over to Thundy, while nodding at his apology. "It's okay, but I guess it's up to Pastel-chan on what she thinks. I know that we all take advice and criticism and such differently. Sometimes, I have to admit that I take things way too seriously. Whether it be in video games, or in other things. With how some things happened years ago, it's been difficult to take things easy and not let things get to me. Since I came here, I've been learning so much and letting things get to me less and less. I suppose it's because I've met such really great friends in all of you." He responded, looking at everyone in the room with a grateful and thankful look in his eyes.

Edited August 22, 2020 by Dynamo Pad

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad 

"Oh yes, I certainly agree. But see here's the thing. Pastel is still young. It's certainly hard for her to hear criticism, and oh my goodness, kids back in my world are the same. I've seen it happen. A kid walked on to the big America's Got Talent stage to prove that his audition was worthy of winning the million dollar prize. Unfortunately, the judges had other words, but they weren't necessarily mean to the kid. Sadly, the kid cried but the judges comforted him. Heck, I remember this one comedian who went on that stage. She started so well, but sadly, it all went to pieces when she messed up one of her jokes and couldn't recover. She was eliminated but one of the judges felt so bad for her that he went to hug and comfort the crying woman." Thundy stated. 

@Pastel Heart

"So again Pastel, I'm not trying to steal your thunder, meaning I'm not trying to take the spotlight away from you. All I'm saying is, yes, it's okay to be excited that you have a great singing voice, yes it's okay to say you have a talent, but being humble is the most important thing. Let your singing do the talking for you. As people say back in my world...actions speak louder than words. There is no way on this planet that I would ever talk down about you. Heck if I did, your grandpa would probably put me in one of those deadly holds...am I right? As Dynamo is a witness..." Thundy said. 

Chelsea looked up, looking at Pastel hoping she would get what Thundy was saying. 

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Dynamo Pad

Pastel smiled up at Dynamo, wearing a fresh, sweet expression. Something different about her lately, for sure.

"You're different from everypony else, Dyny. Both in this town, back home, big and small. You don't look down on me, or think I'm weird, or treat me like a kid... And if not for you I probably wouldn't be here, nyaha. I feel stronger just being near you, like, you're a key item! I'll keep being myself no matter what anycreature thinks of me. I'll be okay... Thank you."

She smiled, looking away from Dynamo and leaning to the side like the flustered protagonist of some shoujo manga. She felt closer to her friend than ever. Social link up.

@C. Thunder Dash

Pastel was wincing cautiously as Thundy talked to her. Seems what Dynamo said restored her sanity, but she still seemed standoffish. She probably didn't like Thundy very much. 

"Who cares about being tactful and all that boring stuff? If I back up what I say, it's not really bragging. I'm having fun no matter what you say!"

She did get a wry smile out of the idea of her grandpa using a hold on him. She loved watching him beat ponies up on tape.

"Hai hai, isekai and whatever... Yeah, if you bully me I'll totally get grandpa to beat you up! Or Dyny! He's gonna be the next world champion, grandpa said!"

She was having fun again, albeit she was being tactless and rude. This was probably why she didn't have many friends before.

[GeneralDirection 1,050]

@C. Thunder Dash @Dynamo Pad @ExplosionMare @Pastel Heart

“Well, nice to meet you, Chelsea.” He smiled. She seemed very tired from whatever had gone on last night, so he felt it was best to just leave her alone for the time being.

His attention turned back to Dynamo who was asking about the pictures.

“Was pretty amazing, actually.” He commented. “Never seen markers like these before in my life. As crazy as it sounds, what you draw on the page, you can hear, smell, touch, and taste it. Like it’s totally weird, but awesome at the same time. Pencil drew fireworks, and you could hear them explode. Then she drew a mountain stream with a deer drinking from it, and you could touch the grass, drink the water, and interact with the deer.” 

Silver watched out of the corner of his eye as he hears Thundy and Pastel having an exchange. Seems somepony’s hooves got stepped on this morning. Silver kept to himself for now, simply wanting to eat breakfast in peace.

[ExplosionMare 18,062]

@GeneralDirection @Dynamo Pad

Pencil inwardly smiled at Silver. She was really glad that he enjoyed spending time just drawing random things with her. It was nice to share a hobby with somepony new, especially without judgement or comparisons ruining the fun. While she thought of that, she thought about her commissioner, too. Would the magic markers really impress him? He was so particular already, and denied most of the samples Pencil sent via mail. She was beginning to lose hope. This of course didn’t affect her stay in this town, but she knew sooner or later it would affect her career. Pencil would be awfully disappointed if she lost all that commission money.

As Dynamo mentioned the variety of foods that were spread out on the breakfast table, Pencil immediately turned her attention to all the pancakes, hash browns, omelettes, and other breakfast items and immediately dug in. She grabbed a few more items than she needed, but she figured she could at least eat most of them. Pencil joyfully stuffed bites on pancakes and hash browns into her mouth as she half-listened to the conversations around her.

She didn’t hear much, but she picked up on mentions of an arcade and consoles. She had already been to the arcade before, but testing out the new consoles with the others sounded fun. Eagerly, Pencil chimed in to the conversation.

“I’ll test out the new game systems with you guys! I don’t really know who’s joining, but I’d like to play all those games. What games are part of the consoles again?”

 

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Pastel Heart @Dynamo Pad

"Yea...now you're starting to cross the line again Pastel. This is why I said before to watch yourself." Thundy said. Chelsea stepped forward and stood in front of Pastel. "Yes...I think you really need to evaluate what you're saying Pastel. Other ponies and creatures other than us may do things worse...so I strongly advise you to really think about what you say. What you say matters the most. It can either bring creatures together or tear relationships apart. I certainly don't want that to happen, but...this attitude that I'm seeing..." Chelsea said shaking her head no, "...is just not right...I know you may not be fond of people criticizing you...yes it can sting but it helps us to become better creatures. Some of us don't even..." Chelsea said with a sniffle, "...have parents or friends to help us through life..." Chelsea said as Thundy came forth and hugged her close. 

"Anyway, I'd say it's a good time to hit the arcade." Thundy said wanting to move on from this exchange. 

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

@Samurai Equine

Kronos gave a chuckle to Tempest and replied “My dear, I’ve already stated that my name is Kronos. Also, no surprise you’ve never seen the likes of me. I am a Rokian pony, after all, from the kingdom of Ragnarok.”

[Astral Vision 286]

11 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

@Kronos the Revenant, @Ragland Tiger

"I could ask you the same." Tempest was all ready getting annoyed by the arrival of a third gate keeper, but she really didn't like the way Kronos circled her. She was getting more irritated than the time she was being sized up to be a potential slave. Though the tip of her horn was beginning to glow, she was actually building up magic in her back hoof, rubbing and digging it into the ground to hide whatever she was building up with her magic. She was getting ready to launch a surprise attack if this went on any further. She promised the princess she wouldn't resort to this, but if all else fails...

Oh.
She drops her guard as soon as he starts to compliment her and offer his claw. "You are the strangest pony I think I've ever met." She gives a surprised yet still smug smirk, and raises her hoof so they can shake on it. "Sometime, I should tell you about the battalion I use to lead, Mister...?" Tempest looks for a name.

It looks like Bluebell is going get to spend time with Shadow after all.

@Astral Vision, @Windy Breeze 🥧

"I didn't know Keen was into video games. This might be interesting. I've hardly played them myself." Trilby says. He wasn't really thinking of being a competitive player, but if Shadow were to sweet talk him into it, Trilby would definitely pick up a controller and compete in the tournament!

@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?"

[Dynamo Pad 11,311]

13 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Dynamo Pad 

"Oh yes, I certainly agree. But see here's the thing. Pastel is still young. It's certainly hard for her to hear criticism, and oh my goodness, kids back in my world are the same. I've seen it happen. A kid walked on to the big America's Got Talent stage to prove that his audition was worthy of winning the million dollar prize. Unfortunately, the judges had other words, but they weren't necessarily mean to the kid. Sadly, the kid cried but the judges comforted him. Heck, I remember this one comedian who went on that stage. She started so well, but sadly, it all went to pieces when she messed up one of her jokes and couldn't recover. She was eliminated but one of the judges felt so bad for her that he went to hug and comfort the crying woman." Thundy stated. 

@Pastel Heart

"So again Pastel, I'm not trying to steal your thunder, meaning I'm not trying to take the spotlight away from you. All I'm saying is, yes, it's okay to be excited that you have a great singing voice, yes it's okay to say you have a talent, but being humble is the most important thing. Let your singing do the talking for you. As people say back in my world...actions speak louder than words. There is no way on this planet that I would ever talk down about you. Heck if I did, your grandpa would probably put me in one of those deadly holds...am I right? As Dynamo is a witness..." Thundy said. 

Chelsea looked up, looking at Pastel hoping she would get what Thundy was saying. 

@Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @Astral Vision @GeneralDirection @C. Thunder Dash

"I can see where you're coming from, but even so. I kind of understand how Pastel feels. When you, Iron and I were jumping dunes yesterday, Iron told me about how he had met Pastel. I can't relate to what she's gone through, but I do know how she feels. I was born with magic, but I couldn't produce said magic. To the point of being bullied for having no mark, no magic and even for being different. I...I know that feeling of being lost and the feeling of loneliness." Dynamo explained, his mane covering his eyes as he thought back to his earlier years. Taking a shaky breath, he looked up to meet Thundy's gaze. "I don't really know what this America's Got Talent is, but I can understand how those contestants must have felt. I just hope we can all get along with each other, but I can be that witness. Mr. Iron has taught me and has given me that old tape. So, if someone does upset Pastel-chan, then I at least have a way to defend her, myself and my friends."

12 hours ago, Pastel Heart said:

@Dynamo Pad

Pastel smiled up at Dynamo, wearing a fresh, sweet expression. Something different about her lately, for sure.

"You're different from everypony else, Dyny. Both in this town, back home, big and small. You don't look down on me, or think I'm weird, or treat me like a kid... And if not for you I probably wouldn't be here, nyaha. I feel stronger just being near you, like, you're a key item! I'll keep being myself no matter what anycreature thinks of me. I'll be okay... Thank you."

She smiled, looking away from Dynamo and leaning to the side like the flustered protagonist of some shoujo manga. She felt closer to her friend than ever. Social link up.

@C. Thunder Dash

Pastel was wincing cautiously as Thundy talked to her. Seems what Dynamo said restored her sanity, but she still seemed standoffish. She probably didn't like Thundy very much. 

"Who cares about being tactful and all that boring stuff? If I back up what I say, it's not really bragging. I'm having fun no matter what you say!"

She did get a wry smile out of the idea of her grandpa using a hold on him. She loved watching him beat ponies up on tape.

"Hai hai, isekai and whatever... Yeah, if you bully me I'll totally get grandpa to beat you up! Or Dyny! He's gonna be the next world champion, grandpa said!"

She was having fun again, albeit she was being tactless and rude. This was probably why she didn't have many friends before.

The blue unicorn looked down at the young mare as she had a sweet expression upon her face. He smiled softly, before giving Pastel a nod. "You're welcome and it's no problem, Pastel-chan. I try to give everyone a chance and/or the benefit of the doubt. I've been judged a lot, but I can only be myself. That's why I see you and see you as Pastel. Sure, you are young so being called a 'kid' would make sense. However, you can't be anyone else, but yourself, which is Pastel Heart. Don't ever forget who you are or what you wish to be. The true strength will always be in here." He would say, pointing his right hoof to where her heart was. 

12 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Pastel Heart @Dynamo Pad

"Yea...now you're starting to cross the line again Pastel. This is why I said before to watch yourself." Thundy said. Chelsea stepped forward and stood in front of Pastel. "Yes...I think you really need to evaluate what you're saying Pastel. Other ponies and creatures other than us may do things worse...so I strongly advise you to really think about what you say. What you say matters the most. It can either bring creatures together or tear relationships apart. I certainly don't want that to happen, but...this attitude that I'm seeing..." Chelsea said shaking her head no, "...is just not right...I know you may not be fond of people criticizing you...yes it can sting but it helps us to become better creatures. Some of us don't even..." Chelsea said with a sniffle, "...have parents or friends to help us through life..." Chelsea said as Thundy came forth and hugged her close. 

Dynamo frowned, but he knew arguments were bound to happen between friends. "I think you should give her a chance and let her walk down the path she's going on. She just got her cutie mark yesterday. So, she's bound to learn a lot now that she found her destiny. Sure, she might make mistakes or find something she never discovered, but that discovery will help her to grow. I mean, did any of us really know what and/or where our destinies would take us when we got our marks?" He asks, looking around at everyone in the room. "I know I sure didn't. I didn't know that my magic would stem from games, or that I would have an ancestor from Mistmane's village. Even now, I'm still discovering things about me that I had never had the opportunity to ask myself. So, if you ask me, then I would say this. Maybe you can give her the benefit of the doubt and let her walk down that road? Pastel is still young and can learn to be humble in time. She's only being who she is and we can't force her to change or tell her what to do. It's up to all of us to help guide her, while she stays true to be herself. At least, that's what I believe." He would say, giving Thundy and the others a hopeful smile. He just wanted everyone to get along and for no more arguments.

13 hours ago, GeneralDirection said:

@C. Thunder Dash @Dynamo Pad @ExplosionMare @Pastel Heart

“Well, nice to meet you, Chelsea.” He smiled. She seemed very tired from whatever had gone on last night, so he felt it was best to just leave her alone for the time being.

His attention turned back to Dynamo who was asking about the pictures.

“Was pretty amazing, actually.” He commented. “Never seen markers like these before in my life. As crazy as it sounds, what you draw on the page, you can hear, smell, touch, and taste it. Like it’s totally weird, but awesome at the same time. Pencil drew fireworks, and you could hear them explode. Then she drew a mountain stream with a deer drinking from it, and you could touch the grass, drink the water, and interact with the deer.” 

Silver watched out of the corner of his eye as he hears Thundy and Pastel having an exchange. Seems somepony’s hooves got stepped on this morning. Silver kept to himself for now, simply wanting to eat breakfast in peace.

13 hours ago, ExplosionMare said:

@GeneralDirection @Dynamo Pad

Pencil inwardly smiled at Silver. She was really glad that he enjoyed spending time just drawing random things with her. It was nice to share a hobby with somepony new, especially without judgement or comparisons ruining the fun. While she thought of that, she thought about her commissioner, too. Would the magic markers really impress him? He was so particular already, and denied most of the samples Pencil sent via mail. She was beginning to lose hope. This of course didn’t affect her stay in this town, but she knew sooner or later it would affect her career. Pencil would be awfully disappointed if she lost all that commission money.

As Dynamo mentioned the variety of foods that were spread out on the breakfast table, Pencil immediately turned her attention to all the pancakes, hash browns, omelettes, and other breakfast items and immediately dug in. She grabbed a few more items than she needed, but she figured she could at least eat most of them. Pencil joyfully stuffed bites on pancakes and hash browns into her mouth as she half-listened to the conversations around her.

She didn’t hear much, but she picked up on mentions of an arcade and consoles. She had already been to the arcade before, but testing out the new consoles with the others sounded fun. Eagerly, Pencil chimed in to the conversation.

“I’ll test out the new game systems with you guys! I don’t really know who’s joining, but I’d like to play all those games. What games are part of the consoles again?”

 

 

Turning his attention back to Silver, Dynamo's eyes widened at the description of these drawings. "Are you serious!?" He asks in shock, his jaw dropping in near disbelief. "I mean, I always loved coloring books back when I was younger, but those markers/pencils sound incredible. Being able to hear, smell, touch and taste sounds like taking drawings to a whole new level." He would say, looking over towards Pencil with a grin. "I can imagine having these sorts of drawings will help give you new inspiration. Even the commissioner might be surprised as to what he'll get now. Isn't there a type of art that lets you feel the art around you? If not, then maybe you'll be able to start a whole new kind of art style. I think it's truly interesting and unique to be able to touch the grass or even interacting with a deer." He would say, smiling as he was happy that Pencil wanted to join up in testing the new game system. "Perfect! I think there's another dance system that Thundy made. So, we'll have more chances for everyone to dance so there's no need to wait in taking turns. At the moment, I know it's you, Pastel-chan, myself, Silver, Chelsea, Thundy and maybe Astral. If we can find him on our way to the arcade, that is. The games are all a part of this mini console that Samurai gave to me, before he left. It holds over a hundred games, so maybe we can all test this out." He smiled sadly at the memory, before levitating the mini game console over towards Pencil.

13 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

"Anyway, I'd say it's a good time to hit the arcade." Thundy said wanting to move on from this exchange. 

2 hours ago, Astral Vision said:

 

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?"

 

Dynamo nodded at the mention of going to the arcade. "I think that's a good idea. I hope everyone was able to have and finish breakfast." He would say, before looking down to Pastel. "Did you get something to eat? If not, then did you want to finish the omelette together on the way over? I wouldn't want anything to happen to you, Pastel-chan." He says with care and concern in his voice. His ears perked as he heard a voice calling out to him. Hearing Astral, he smiled as he stood up. "Speaking of Astral." Walking over towards the front entrance, he opened the door to greet the unicorn with a smile. "Hey and good morning, Astral! Perfect timing. We were just talking about looking for you if you wanted to go to the arcade." He would say, before stopping at the mention of an event. His eyes widened slightly, before nodding as he stood off to the side. "Did the Laronde box activate? What is the next event? Also, did you want to come in and talk about it, or discuss it on the way there?" He asks, making sure to keep his promise on learning more about the Laronde Box with Astral for Samurai's sake.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart

"Of course I'm not forcing her to be humble..." Chelsea said turning to Dynamo. "Yes, it's exciting that she got her cutie mark, but that doesn't automatically make her the best singer that there ever was...a cutie mark is not only a sign of one's destiny but also a sign of maturity, growing up, know that you've cemented what you want to do, just like your gaming cutie mark...and mine." Chelsea said gathering some water energy and making an animated drawing of a younger version of herself protecting a little dolphin from a mean shark, all from water droplets. 

Edited August 23, 2020 by C. Thunder Dash

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Dynamo Pad

Pastel was fed up with the peanut gallery and decided to just focus on Dynamo. She smiled, giggling as Dynamo pointed to her heart, which was once again warm with affection.

"Yeah. That's right! I'll be the best Pastel I can be. For my fans, for my friends, and for you!"

She bounced up happily, formally returning to her normal state. She wanted to have fun now and enjoy herself.

@Astral Vision

With Astrals appearance, looks like it was time for an outing. She smiled up and Dynamo and quickly wrapped up what remains of the omelette into a picnic basket... With chips and cheese crackers for good measure. 

"I'm snack packed and ready to go! Don't worry about me, Dyny! I'm stuffed! If anything I can't wait to do this again! For now though... Arcade! OUTRUN! OUTRUN!"

She chanted this as if it was a war cry. She knew what she wanted to play, atleast.

[Ragland Tiger 3,392]

19 hours ago, Kronos the Revenant said:

@Samurai Equine

Kronos gave a chuckle to Tempest and replied “My dear, I’ve already stated that my name is Kronos. Also, no surprise you’ve never seen the likes of me. I am a Rokian pony, after all, from the kingdom of Ragnarok.”

@Samurai Equine @Kronos the Revenant

Bluebell, starting to feel awkward, softly tapped her friend.  "T-Tempest, we-we have s-s-some important th-th-things-thiings to discuss," she said, while donning a tentative smile at Kronos.  "For-forgive my In-inter-interrupting."

[Samurai Equine 51,442]

@Ragland Tiger, @Kronos the Revenant

Tempest bows courteously before him. "I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about, but business comes first." She then turns to Bluebell and walks into the town with her. "So, this is Friendshire, is it? I expected it to be small like Ponyville, bit it's actually rather large."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine

Shadow giggled as Astral leaves. She turns to Trilby and said “Astral is such a good friend is he?” she also heard Astral talk about a friend who also a gamer, Keen would love to meet... Whoever it was, its like the meeting of two eggheads and finding common ground.

Speaking of Keen, she should come back to the apartment, but she couldn't just leave Trilby begind. She look outside to see if the mob has disperse.

[Ragland Tiger 3,392]

@Samurai Equine

1 hour ago, Samurai Equine said:

@Ragland Tiger, @Kronos the Revenant

Tempest bows courteously before him. "I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about, but business comes first." She then turns to Bluebell and walks into the town with her. "So, this is Friendshire, is it? I expected it to be small like Ponyville, bit it's actually rather large."

 

"L-lots of ponies and other cr-cr-creatures come here, mo-most by ac-ac-accident, including me-me.  That's how I got this b-b-broken leg.  Ma-many of them c-co-come from unusual circumstances, some v-very sad.   For-for one reason or ano-another, they're driven away form their-their communities, and they w-w-wind up here.  Here, they're ac-ac-ac-accepted, just as they are, even-even if they have t-t-trouble accept-accepting them-themselves. I guess that's why I-I-I want so much to s-save this place."  A tear started to drift out of Bluebell's eye.  "Let's st-stop at a lo-local eatery. I d-d-don't know-know about you, but I'm st-starving."

Edited August 23, 2020 by Ragland Tiger

[ExplosionMare 18,062]

@Dynamo Pad

Pencil clapped eagerly as Dynamo slid the arcade system over to her. She picked it up and examined it, fascinated by all the little details. Her town never had take-home consoles like this, so this was truly new to her. It was like holding a mini arcade in her hooves. Pencil couldn’t wait any longer to play it with, so she quickly searched for and jammed the ‘on’ button to see what the console would display.

She waited a while, but nothing happened. She shook the console impatiently to try and wake it up, but the screen still remained blank. Pencil gave out a frustrated huff, only to soon realize the device was never plugged in. Pretending like she didn’t make a scene in front of Dynamo and possibly the others, Pencil pushed the console aside and continued her breakfast.

She nibbled on her food for a while to hopefully make everyone forget how she just made a fool of herself. When she was comfortable to speak, she sat up in her chair and decided to converse with Dynamo.

“I’ll show you the markers I was using some other time. I bet you’d like to see a character in one of the video games you like spring to life!” she began. Pencil couldn’t think of anything else to say for a while. Nothing had come to her. She sat for a moment simple staring into space. It wasn’t until she remembered Dynamo’s earlier conversation about his magic and lack of a Cutie Mark that she had an idea of what to talk about.

“Hey, um, about what you s-said earlier about your magic and getting a Cutie Mark, mmh...I k-know what it’s like to get picked on for stuff you can’t control. Maybe not like how you were, but I uh, know what that f-feels like. So, um, if you ever wanna talk about it, you can,” she brought up anxiously. Pencil didn’t want to put Dynamo on the spot, but she hated when anypony felt down due to the cruelty of others. She wanted to help out if she could.

While Pencil waited for Dynamo to finish the rest of their conversation, she took a brief moment to refill her plate with pancakes and eggs. Adjusting her seat a little, Pencil took the time to get comfortable again before she sat down to eat the rest of her meal.

[Samurai Equine 51,442]

@Windy Breeze 🥧

Trilby nods, agreeing with her. "I've somehow made a lot of good friends lately." The crowd left a long time ago when Astral yelled at them. She is free to go now, if she wants.

@Ragland Tiger

Tempest listens to Bluebell, hanging on every word and wanting to say something. But she decides to hold back for now. "Are you offering to treat me? I wasn't expecting to have a date today." Tempest says, having a little bit of a giggle. She's just joking, obviously.