open The Town That Friendship Forgot

[Samurai Equine 51,709]

@Ragland Tiger

In the ancient ruins,
Tempest sees how much Bluebell is enjoying this environment much more. True, there is lush greenery, and some still-standing remains of castles and civilization. However, other castles and homes are toppled over, destroyed or in pieces. The skies seem perpetually gray and cloudy. There are hints of sun, but it's still a slightly less than welcoming place. Still, the sight of Bluebell using her in-game abilities was interesting! "Want to take it with us?" Tempest offers to raise and carry it with one of her shadow tentacles. She looks over at a caste, one that is half destroyed, half standing. "...I detect something in that castle. Treasures, a dungeon, a metal forge. I think this that castle is where I want to set up my own personally level that we can share. Shall we?" Seems being a video game character has made Tempest naturally inclined to where she wants be.

@CameoShadowness

In a nature biome,
It took a while for him to get there and to track her down. However, Daring Decor as the Black Knight has finally managed to find Beryl. "There you are." Daring also brought with him a horde of skeleton-rats, but with a wave of his hoof, they leave Beryl alone. "Listen, my name is Daring Decor, and I don't really like the idea of being a boss character. I get the feeling you don't either. I was wondering if you'd like to team up. I figure, if Tempest and the other one can team up, why not us? If you like, I could do all the hard work, and you could be my back up. At the very least, we could keep each other company. I think it won't be long before either of us have to do our jobs as boss characters, though." Daring makes his offer. "Unless you really do want to go solo, in which case I guess I could try and track down Kronos or something... Oh, by the way, you should know the first boss has all ready been defeated. Elusive Facts just lost her battle."

(Sorry for leaving you hanging earlier. I really hope this helps make up for things. You can always just ignore this or turn Daring Decor down if you want, but I thought this might make things easier.)

Edited September 20, 2020 by Samurai Equine

[Dynamo Pad 11,339]

9 hours ago, Pastel Heart said:

@Samurai Equine @Dynamo Pad @C. Thunder Dash

Pastel shrugged. It couldn't hurt to have another ally. If anything, that makes her less of a target.

"Well, if you guys think so, I won't object! If anything else, now we got more ponypower! But... um, where did you get that microphone? C'mon, fill in your new roguish friend~"

 

On 9/17/2020 at 8:54 PM, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine

"I'd say we welcome her to the team. Besides, with how strong she was, we could certainly use some extra firepower." Thundy said. "I agree. Why waste this opportunity to have an extra ally on our team." Chelsea said extending her talon towards Elusive compassionately. 

8 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

In Level 1,
Elusive Facts looks up at Pastel Heart inquisitively. "Are you interviewing me? Well... The mic and speakers are just standard weapons that came with this character I selected. Same with the bike. They are gone now, but if you Recruit me, I'll have access to that arsenal again. However, if you Mercy me, the only way I'd be able to use them again is if I re-join the villain side, which I don't want to do while I'm trapped here." Elusive explains.

 

Well, that's it. Pastel, Chelsea, and Thundy have said their peace on on the matter.
Looks like everyone wants Dynamo to make the final decision and press the button. Recruit her into the team, put her on the side-lines and risk the dark characters re-recruiting her, or send her back to reality? It's all up to Dynamo now.

 

@Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine @C. Thunder Dash

As everyone gave their two cents on what should be done, Dynamo felt all eyes were on him to make the final call. As he thought, he took to heart what would happen with Elusive’s weapons and bike if left with mercy. “I can’t deny that having an ally would be beneficial toward the mission. Strength in numbers, a possible guide to the next level, as well as information on possible other bosses? I don’t think we can just pass up on things like that. Plus, she wasn’t truly bad, in my opinion. It’s always good to have another friend.” He smiled, hovering his hoof over to the recruit option, before pressing the icon. “It looks like that is that, then. Welcome to the team, Elusive.” He would say, extending his front right hoof to help Elusive to her hooves.

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

@Dynamo Pad @Samurai Equine

As he prepared his Mech suit in his chamber, Kronos senses a disturbance. He pulls out a hologram projector which showed the status of all heroes and villains. He noticed Elusive Facts’ icon changed color. 
 

“Dammit,” he said to himself “Ahh well, she was weak anyways. I’ll have no problems nor qualms dealing with her soon; nevertheless, I must report this.”
He turned off the three generators attached to the back of his Mech, which turned off a deterrence field around the door to the King’s chamber. 
 

“Your Majesty,” Kronos greeted with a kneel, “I regret to say your first champion has been converted. I also have some information about the heroes that intend on storming us.” He waited for the Dark King’s reply. 

Edited September 20, 2020 by Kronos the Revenant

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine

"Great to have you Elusive. We can surely get through the next few levels easier now." Thundy said as he looked around for an exit to the level. He then got a feeling. Would the others know that Elusive was on their side? He kept the feeling to himself. 

[Samurai Equine 51,709]

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

In Level 1,
Elusive Facts happily rises up as soon as she is Recruited. "Woo hoo! I'm good now!" She hops for joys.

The window disappears as soon as Dynamo presses the button, and all 5 of them are transported back to the city where the rest of the team is wating.

@ExplosionMare, @GeneralDirection, @Windy Breeze 🥧, @Astral Vision

Trilby, Shadow, Silver, and Pencil are there to greet them as soon as they appear.

"You're back! You finished the level! And... Uhh... Hi?" Trilby starts off excited, but then sees the new girl. "Hello everybody! Elusive Facts here, bringing you the latest scoops in all of Friendshire! And I just want say to all of you..." She bows gratefully. "Thank you for recruiting me and setting me free from the dark side. However, I know you were all looking forward to me being a powerhouse for your team, but to be honest... All this fighting and questing isn't really my style. I'm just a humble news reporter pony, and despite the character I chose, I got all my street gang member days out of my system a LONG time ago! Is there perhaps a way I could be saved or stored away for emergency use only?" Elusive Facts asks.

"...I have no idea what's going on, but it's not impossible. Now how do we get in contact with Astral again? He might like having some company." Trilby offers.

@Kronos the Revenant

At the dark castle,
The Dark King, Mayor Black, sits on his throne and hears Kronos' report. "I figured this might be the case. The first boss in any game is usually easy, but I knew not everyone was as keen to be part of this team as you are. Thank you for the report, Kronos. I may need to look into adding additional security around my castle..." He says, thinking out loud.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @GeneralDirection @Astral Vision @Pastel Heart @Dynamo Pad @C. Thunder Dash

Shadow stood behind Trilby when the other group appeared. She almost immediately noticed Elusive Facts, the reporter she remembered when she was helping some repairs at the school playground. She gave Dynamo and the others a look of confusion for bringing a 'background pony' with them. That is until...

54 minutes ago, Samurai Equine said:

"Thank you for recruiting me and setting me free from the dark side. However, I know you were all looking forward to me being a powerhouse for your team, but to be honest... All this fighting and questing isn't really my style. I'm just a humble news reporter pony, and despite the character I chose, I got all my street gang member days out of my system a LONG time ago! Is there perhaps a way I could be saved or stored away for emergency use only?" Elusive Facts asks.

As soon as she heard Elusive mentioned about being set free from the dark side, Shadow ran up to her and stood in front of her “You are from the dark side?” she asked “Is there a pony in the dark side named Keen Fan!?”

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Windy Breeze 🥧 @ExplosionMare @Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine

"Phew, that's one level down. So, how did the side quest mission work out for you?" Thundy asked the side quest group. 

Meanwhile Chelsea walked over to Elusive. "So...will you still be able to support us with your tech? Maybe you could at least be some sort of mechanic or forger...making stuff for us to use..." Chelsea stated. 

[Silly Druid 7,005]

20 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

Outside of Friendshire,
"Pleasure to meet you both." Final Premonition says. He listens to their questions and then gladly points at them. "Now those are questions I can definitely answer. At least while I still have time." He checks one of his wrist watches. "Yes. Still have time." He nods.

"You are right about one thing. I deal in temporal magic. Because of that, the next time you see me, I may act completely different. You might see a younger version of myself that doesn't even know you; or you might see an older version of me that all ready knows everything about you, including your real name, Mr. Nopony. But time magic is not a common thing. It's practically forbidden, and it is said that even Princess Twilight only knew about one or two time-related spells. I've been researching it my whole life, but time is not an easy magic to work with. It can be wild and lead you to random moments through history. That's why I have all these many time pieces, you see. I have channeled all of my time magic research into them, and they help me keep track of different moments in time. Like this yellow wrist watch, this one represents the year I was born." He shows it off. "Or this time piece! Oh, this is a special one. It helps me keep track of the year before Celestia and Luna appeared in this world." He pulls out an antique clock from his beard and puts it back. "And there's... Oh, sorry, I'm rattling on and wasting my limited time here. I think you get the idea." Final has a bit of a laugh at himself.

He takes a moment to look at Friendshire. "As for this town... Two mayors reside over it, but they've both become aloof when it comes to their mayoring duties. They wanted this town to become a great locale for friendship to grow and thrive. Instead, it became forgotten, overshadowed by places like Ponyville and so on. In fact, most map-makers have forgotten this place still exists, assuming it must have been abandoned ages ago. The mayors have lost hope, many of the town's leaders and organizers have left, and Friendshire has become a shell of its former self. ...But there is still hope." He looks back at the two ponies before him. "There have been newcomers entering the town. Using left over clues and a magic puzzle box, they've slowly been bringing life and optimism back to this town. The fact that this town isn't saved by now means that I failed to save it myself..."

Final Premonition takes a moment to stretch. "Ah~ As a matter of fact, of all the newcomers, there was a champion who was really excited about fixing the town. He was a soldier named Samurai Equine. Currently, he has left the town to help out with a bigger problem, but he may return some day. Speaking of current events, right now the entire town is trapped in a video-game magically come to life, which explains the light show. It's not a malicious curse or anything. The spell will be undone when the game is completed. If you walk into that light right now, you'll also be absorbed into the game. I cannot say for sure what you'll see in there. But the choice to go in or not is yours."

After that long explanation, Final checks his pocket watch. "...Almost time for me to head back to my timeline. If you have any further questions about the town or the mayors, you can always go into the video-game and ask the citizens yourself. You'll find them easily, I'm sure. Otherwise, you can stay put out here. But if you have any questions about me personally, I have time for one last question."

@Samurai Equine

"Time magic is confusing and dangerous indeed, that's why I never even tried to use it myself. You say I can ask one more question about you? Well, the one that comes to my mind is what's your goal in life? In other words, why are you doing all this temporal magic? If it makes you more willing to answer, I can tell you what my goal is: I search for magical anomalies to protect the ponies and other inhabitants of these lands. Many times I warned the authorities (including Princess Celestia on occasion) about bad things that were going to happen. I'm not widely known because I prefer to remain in the shadows as much as possible, but I have my role in making Equestria a safer place. I'm getting old though and I need a successor, that's why I'm teaching my craft to this talented young mare."

"That's me! I'm learning how to protect Equestria from evil magic. By the way that video game thing sounds like fun, I definitely want to be a part of it!" Tree Song remarked enthusiastically.

"We'll talk about that later, now we should let Mr. Premonition answer my question."

Edited September 20, 2020 by PawelS

[Samurai Equine 51,709]

@PawelS

Outside Friendshire,
Final tilts his head with a sly smirk, then looks back at Nopony. "Sorry friend, but that's one I can't fully answer just yet. Spoilers. All I can tell you is that ever since I was a young colt, time-based magic has always fascinated me and I've studied it more than any other pony I know. Though, if you are smart enough, you should be able to figure out what my end goal is. I've all ready given you enough clues, and more lie inside."

Final Premonition takes notice of the time again. "And right on cue, my time is up. Good luck, and enjoy your stay here. The town just might need you both." With a press of the button on his pocket watch, he vanishes instantly, cinematic jump-cut style. There was absolutely no warning nor any kind of sign he was about to disappear like that. With teleportation, there is usually a tell that it's about to happen. A glow of a unicorn's horn, a momentary build of power, a magical pop when the spellcaster disappears and reappears. But here? There was nothing. Blink and he's gone, minus the blink.

Now what? Should the two them go inside the light and be absorbed into the video game after all?

@Dynamo Pad, @Pastel Heart, @C. Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @GeneralDirection, @Windy Breeze 🥧, @Astral Vision

In the city hub world,
Elusive wasn't expecting this much interest in her. "Oh, greetings! I remember you. Shadow Trail, from the interview, right? Hmm... I do think there was a Keen on the dark team. Not sure where she went though. I do believe she is either going to be a level 3 or level 4 boss. Don't worry, though! She's been holding up just fine on her own so far." She explains to Shadow. She also turns to Chelsea. "Uhh... Sorry, my new team mate, but I don't think my character's abilities work that way. This character I chose is just a street thug, not a mechanic nor a black smith of any kind. But I'll always be here if you really need me, and since I'm here, I could offer you a ride on my motorcycle." Elusive explains to Chelsea before summoning her motorcycle again. "What about you? Interesting in going for a ride, Ms. Idol Rogue? Or how about you, Mr. Arcade Manager?" She asks Pastel and Dynamo as well.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Samurai Equine

“Really? Is she taking it well, being in the team?” Shadow really has no idea how Keen took the game seriously, or  too seriously. It is obvious, Shadow never made friends with gamers before, since when she used to be a Shadowbolt in the past. Nightmare Moon forbid any of her teammates, including her to socialize with ponies who liked the day than the night. She has no idea of her past yet since Nightmare Moon erased her memories.

Shadow turned to Trilby “Hey, did you remember our king's description of the level 3 world?” she asked.

[ExplosionMare 18,064]

@C. Thunder Dash

Pencil looked over as the battle team joined everyone over by Elusive Facts. Thundy asked how the opposing team fared, which got a small smile out of Pencil. Enthusiastically, she responded,

“Our side quest went pretty well! It was a struggle once the battle got more tense, but it was only a beginner stage, so it wasn’t too bad,”

@Samurai Equine @Windy Breeze 🥧 @GeneralDirection

Speaking of Elusive Facts, she was apparently still in need of a task. Just sparing her did not seem to do much, so Pencil would have to think of something else. Elusive mentioned being a street thug, so Pencil at least had an idea of what to suggest to her. Pencil wasn’t sure if she wanted a thief on the team, but perhaps having somepony to go out and collect extra items wouldn’t be a bad idea. Pencil trotted a bit closer to Elusive and offered her suggestion.

“I was just thinking, since you wanted a sort of a job to do, maybe you could be our item gatherer? Heh, I think Trilby would know the proper terminology for that. A-anyways, would you like to help us gather extra items for our inventory?” she invited.

[Dynamo Pad 11,339]

11 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

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

In Level 1,
Elusive Facts happily rises up as soon as she is Recruited. "Woo hoo! I'm good now!" She hops for joys.

The window disappears as soon as Dynamo presses the button, and all 5 of them are transported back to the city where the rest of the team is wating.

@ExplosionMare, @GeneralDirection, @Windy Breeze 🥧, @Astral Vision

Trilby, Shadow, Silver, and Pencil are there to greet them as soon as they appear.

"You're back! You finished the level! And... Uhh... Hi?" Trilby starts off excited, but then sees the new girl. "Hello everybody! Elusive Facts here, bringing you the latest scoops in all of Friendshire! And I just want say to all of you..." She bows gratefully. "Thank you for recruiting me and setting me free from the dark side. However, I know you were all looking forward to me being a powerhouse for your team, but to be honest... All this fighting and questing isn't really my style. I'm just a humble news reporter pony, and despite the character I chose, I got all my street gang member days out of my system a LONG time ago! Is there perhaps a way I could be saved or stored away for emergency use only?" Elusive Facts asks.

"...I have no idea what's going on, but it's not impossible. Now how do we get in contact with Astral again? He might like having some company." Trilby offers.

After the button disappears, Dynamo felt himself being teleported away from the area. He soon blinked as he was returned to the city. "Hey, guys! We finally made it back. I'm not exactly sure how, but we made it back to town. I guess defeating the boss of the level will always send us back to the hub world. Sort of gives us a way to regroup and resupply on healing items." He would say, giving a sheepish smile as Elusive began her reporting once more. It seemed like a force of habit, but he was glad to have her on the good side. Upon hearing that she didn't want to fight, Dynamo could only frown in concern. "It feels disheartening to hear that you aren't able to join us in possible battles. I can understand where you're coming from, but we still might need your help in the long run."

 

10 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Dynamo Pad @Windy Breeze 🥧 @ExplosionMare @Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine

"Phew, that's one level down. So, how did the side quest mission work out for you?" Thundy asked the side quest group. 

Meanwhile Chelsea walked over to Elusive. "So...will you still be able to support us with your tech? Maybe you could at least be some sort of mechanic or forger...making stuff for us to use..." Chelsea stated. 

Dynamo looked towards Chelsea, who had brought up a good suggestion. "That's a good idea. If we need to, then Elusive can be with Astral to help guard the Justice King. If not, then she could always go with the side quest team, while we adjust teams to make ourselves balanced. That, and we can always call on Elusive if we still need help later on. We just have to put our heads together and think this through."

9 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

 

In the city hub world,
Elusive wasn't expecting this much interest in her. "Oh, greetings! I remember you. Shadow Trail, from the interview, right? Hmm... I do think there was a Keen on the dark team. Not sure where she went though. I do believe she is either going to be a level 3 or level 4 boss. Don't worry, though! She's been holding up just fine on her own so far." She explains to Shadow. She also turns to Chelsea. "Uhh... Sorry, my new team mate, but I don't think my character's abilities work that way. This character I chose is just a street thug, not a mechanic nor a black smith of any kind. But I'll always be here if you really need me, and since I'm here, I could offer you a ride on my motorcycle." Elusive explains to Chelsea before summoning her motorcycle again. "What about you? Interesting in going for a ride, Ms. Idol Rogue? Or how about you, Mr. Arcade Manager?" She asks Pastel and Dynamo as well.

@Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @Astral Vision @GeneralDirection @Windy Breeze 🥧 @Samurai Equine @C. Thunder Dash

Dynamo turned back to Elusive, who had mentioned a name to Shadow, who seemed to have known about this individual. "You said that Keen would be on either level 3 or 4. How many levels are there in order for us to get towards the Dark King?" He wondered, thinking upon the offer of a ride on Elusive's restored motorcycle. "I wouldn't mind a motorcycle ride. Maybe we can get a ride to where level 2 is held at. Do you happen to know where we might need to go, or what to expect in future levels? Also, I guess I should have introduced myself. You might have known when giving the interview, but it's better to be safe than sorry. My name is Dynamo Pad, but you can call me Dynamo." He would say, offering a kind smile to the reporter mare.

[Silly Druid 7,005]

@Samurai Equine

Outside of Friendshire, two earth ponies discuss what they should do next.

"That pony was... strange. Do you think he was telling the truth?"

"Yes, now that we're close, I can sense the kind of magic used here, and it's like he told us. I heard of enchanted comic books that let you be a part of the story, and it looks like it's also possible with... what are they called?"

"Video games. Is it safe for us to go there?"

"It should be safe, it's not like if you die in the game, you die for real... I hope so, at least. But I don't think we should both go. I'm not used to these modern things, and I need to rest after the long journey. So you go into the game and have your fun, and I'll just camp here and see if anything interesting happens outside these walls. When the game is over, the light should disappear. Then I'll enter the town."

"If you think it's better this way, then I'll do as you say. Wish me luck!"

He did, and then Tree Song stepped into the light.

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Windy Breeze 🥧 @ExplosionMare @Astral Vision @C. Thunder Dash @GeneralDirection @Samurai Equine

Pastel is surprised to end up with the crowd again, that's a lot of ponies. She smirks, snapping back into character.

"Good day, old comrades! We bring a new ally. Isn't she just adorable? I think I'm gonna keep her!"

Pastel referred to Elusive as if she were  pet she picked up, or a damsel she kidnapped. All in good fun... probably.

@Dynamo Pad

Smiling up at Dynamo excitedly on the promise of a motorcycle ride, she smiles at the mare.

"Like one of those futuristic shows huh? I'm down! I'm gonna scoot up real close against Dy- I mean... I'll keep an eye in this gambler to make sure he doesn't take everything for himself, nyaha~"

[CameoShadowness 251]

On 9/19/2020 at 7:00 PM, Samurai Equine said:

 

@CameoShadowness

In a nature biome,
It took a while for him to get there and to track her down. However, Daring Decor as the Black Knight has finally managed to find Beryl. "There you are." Daring also brought with him a horde of skeleton-rats, but with a wave of his hoof, they leave Beryl alone. "Listen, my name is Daring Decor, and I don't really like the idea of being a boss character. I get the feeling you don't either. I was wondering if you'd like to team up. I figure, if Tempest and the other one can team up, why not us? If you like, I could do all the hard work, and you could be my back up. At the very least, we could keep each other company. I think it won't be long before either of us have to do our jobs as boss characters, though." Daring makes his offer. "Unless you really do want to go solo, in which case I guess I could try and track down Kronos or something... Oh, by the way, you should know the first boss has all ready been defeated. Elusive Facts just lost her battle."

(Sorry for leaving you hanging earlier. I really hope this helps make up for things. You can always just ignore this or turn Daring Decor down if you want, but I thought this might make things easier.)

Beryl stomped her hoof on the ground next to an empty bottle and some ingrediants and they seem to glow like her spots before magically mixing together. She glanced at him before doing it one last time. "One is already down?" Beryl tried to get used to her more 'mare style' voice. Her accent still peaked through but her voice was lower than what she was used to. "Hm.... Alright, we'll be together. I made a few nasty potions so you don't have to do everything but most of these potions are healing." She Tied special plants to each bottle neck. "Maybe we should set a few traps while we're at it." She looked around and saw a few Flyders wiz by. "I think I know some good building material."

[Samurai Equine 51,709]

@PawelS

When Tree Song enters the light, at first, it is blinding, then it is completely black.
It's black because Tree Song soon find herself in a completely black void. Although an electronic grid pattern becomes the floor and the ceiling of this empty void. And before she can ask too many questions...

SELECT YOUR CHARACTER!

The game's narrator speaks up, and then a window appears before Tree Song. It's a window of different characters to choose from, but unfortunately, all the main game characters have either been chosen or are locked for now. All that is left is characters that can observe or help out in small ways, but not so much go into levels or side quests.

The first in the selection is Arcane Druid. Despite the name, it is actually a neutrally aligned character that can help instantly transport main characters to their next destination. There is also Angelic Gatekeeper, a guardian that protects the entrance to a bonus level in the heavens; Wondering Blacksmith, whose job is quite obvious, and so on. If none of these characters seem interesting, Tree Song can always keep scrolling through the selection until she finds something she likes.

(If you have any questions or suggestions, tag me in the Planning thread.) 

@Dynamo Pad, @Pastel Heart, @C. Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @GeneralDirection, @Windy Breeze 🥧, @Astral Vision

In the city hub world,
Elusive nods at Shadow's question. "She seem to be adapting to the game just fine. I haven't seen her since then, but she seem just fine."
She looks at Pencil and considers her suggestion. "Well, I suppose I could, if we ever find an open-world area with hidden items in it. Otherwise, I think this game is pretty straight forward. There are shops, blacksmiths, and you can get items and money in the main levels." Elusive explains.
She looks over at Dynamo. "Oh, believe me, I don't forget any pony I've ever interviewed. All I can tell you is how many bosses there are. I was the first, obviously. After that, if I am remembering their names right, it's Daring Decor, Beryl, Keen, Tempest Shadow, Bluebell, and Kronos. Each one was SUPPOSE to have their own level, however, it's perfectly optional for 2 boss characters to team up and share one level. I believe Tempest and Bluebell have all ready agreed to work together. Others might agree to do the same. It will be a tougher challenge, but it would mean less levels for you all to clear, which means you could beat the game faster. But you don't need me to lead you to the next level. That's what you have a Cleric for, isn't it?" Elusive explains, pointing to Trilby.
Finally, she turns to Pastel. "Well, you did vote to recruit me, even though I hardly deserve it. I suppose I am in debt to all of you!" Elusive shows her gratitude with a nice pose.

When she summons her motorcycle, it suddenly has a side-car. She gets on it and revs the engine. "So who wants a quick joy ride? It's a pretty big motorcyle, but I only have room for about three others. Two can it behind me, but one has to sit in the side-car."

Trilby is getting concerned that they haven't heard back from Astral yet. "ASTRAL! You listening?! Elusive Facts wants to hang out with you and the king at the castle! Hmm... Is there a spell I need to cast or something? Hmm..."
Then he hears Shadow's question. "He didn't really describe any of the levels. He had no idea where they are nor what they looked like. But I can always guide us in the general direction of the next level."

Pencil bringing up the side quest reminded him or of something. "OH! Hey, everypony! Before anyone goes on joy ride with Ms. Elusive Facts, I just remembered. We completed a side quest, so we have 1 free upgrade for all of you! ...Well, most of you. Sorry, Ms. Elusive. We don't have one for you. We got these before you joined the team, apparently." Trilby says. "Hmm? Oh, it's quite all right, Trilby. Since I was your first boss, I can accept a little bit of punishment for being so bad."

@CameoShadowness

In the nature biomes,
Daring Decor nods. "Glad you agreed. I had a feeling you might be able to make some healing potions. ... Traps, you say? Well, for our shared level, I can summon skeleton rats and dark archers to defend us. What about you? Can you summon anything to help us out? With your power over potions, I bet you could do a lot of things, like manipulate the forest animals or set up potion bombs or something."

[CameoShadowness 251]

4 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

In the nature biomes,
Daring Decor nods. "Glad you agreed. I had a feeling you might be able to make some healing potions. ... Traps, you say? Well, for our shared level, I can summon skeleton rats and dark archers to defend us. What about you? Can you summon anything to help us out? With your power over potions, I bet you could do a lot of things, like manipulate the forest animals or set up potion bombs or something."

Beryl shook her head. "Summon? Not animals, just certain plants and this one bug I don't know how to pronounce the name of. Control?" Beryl took out a strange pink potion and opened it.  "Not directly, nor to do very specific things." She poured a small bit onto a plant and several close by Flyders swarmed it. "If I can use the right one for them though, I can make it so that they will do some nasty things." She then takes out another light green yellow with plant wings on it and pours it on the Flyders causing them to stop before shaking the excess potion and flying away. "I can defiantly make potion bombs of various kinds." She held a dark smile showing a bit of an old secret. "Either way, I don't like direct confrontation." She admitted before putting her potions away.

"Setting a good set of traps can ward off many before they even have enough energy to try with us."

[Dynamo Pad 11,339]

18 hours ago, Pastel Heart said:

Smiling up at Dynamo excitedly on the promise of a motorcycle ride, she smiles at the mare.

"Like one of those futuristic shows huh? I'm down! I'm gonna scoot up real close against Dy- I mean... I'll keep an eye in this gambler to make sure he doesn't take everything for himself, nyaha~"

Dynamo’s ears perked as he heard Pastel’s remark. He looked down, tilting his head in confusion at the young mare. “I would assume so on the futuristic show. I guess it depends on the show. Also, keep an eye on me? I wouldn’t steal anything and take it for myself. I guess it’s kind of odd that I’m this gambler class, but I’m not a gambler to begin with.” He chuckled as he realized the irony.

7 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

 

@Dynamo Pad, @Pastel Heart, @C. Thunder Dash, @ExplosionMare, @GeneralDirection, @Windy Breeze 🥧, @Astral Vision

In the city hub world,
Elusive nods at Shadow's question. "She seem to be adapting to the game just fine. I haven't seen her since then, but she seem just fine."
She looks at Pencil and considers her suggestion. "Well, I suppose I could, if we ever find an open-world area with hidden items in it. Otherwise, I think this game is pretty straight forward. There are shops, blacksmiths, and you can get items and money in the main levels." Elusive explains.
She looks over at Dynamo. "Oh, believe me, I don't forget any pony I've ever interviewed. All I can tell you is how many bosses there are. I was the first, obviously. After that, if I am remembering their names right, it's Daring Decor, Beryl, Keen, Tempest Shadow, Bluebell, and Kronos. Each one was SUPPOSE to have their own level, however, it's perfectly optional for 2 boss characters to team up and share one level. I believe Tempest and Bluebell have all ready agreed to work together. Others might agree to do the same. It will be a tougher challenge, but it would mean less levels for you all to clear, which means you could beat the game faster. But you don't need me to lead you to the next level. That's what you have a Cleric for, isn't it?" Elusive explains, pointing to Trilby.
Finally, she turns to Pastel. "Well, you did vote to recruit me, even though I hardly deserve it. I suppose I am in debt to all of you!" Elusive shows her gratitude with a nice pose.

When she summons her motorcycle, it suddenly has a side-car. She gets on it and revs the engine. "So who wants a quick joy ride? It's a pretty big motorcyle, but I only have room for about three others. Two can it behind me, but one has to sit in the side-car."

Trilby is getting concerned that they haven't heard back from Astral yet. "ASTRAL! You listening?! Elusive Facts wants to hang out with you and the king at the castle! Hmm... Is there a spell I need to cast or something? Hmm..."
Then he hears Shadow's question. "He didn't really describe any of the levels. He had no idea where they are nor what they looked like. But I can always guide us in the general direction of the next level."

Pencil bringing up the side quest reminded him or of something. "OH! Hey, everypony! Before anyone goes on joy ride with Ms. Elusive Facts, I just remembered. We completed a side quest, so we have 1 free upgrade for all of you! ...Well, most of you. Sorry, Ms. Elusive. We don't have one for you. We got these before you joined the team, apparently." Trilby says. "Hmm? Oh, it's quite all right, Trilby. Since I was your first boss, I can accept a little bit of punishment for being so bad."

@Pastel Heart @ExplosionMare @Samurai Equine @Windy Breeze 🥧 @GeneralDirection @Astral Vision @C. Thunder Dash
Dynamo looked back over to Elusive, before giving her a sheepish smile. “I’m glad you don’t forget names. I sometimes have a bad habit of remembering names, but I try my best to remember.” He responds with a chuckle. He nods, while listening omg intently as the reporter began to explain the different bosses. He gulped in worry as he heard Kronos was considered to be a boss. Hearing Bluebell’s name caused Dynamo to frown. He considered Bluebell to be a friend. So, it would feel weird having to fight a friend. “Tempest Shadow? Why does that name sound familiar?” He asks, placing a hoof to his chin in thought.

He sighed as he shook his head. Hearing that there could be multiple bosses in a level seemed like a nightmare, but it made sense. “I can’t say I’m surprised, but it just means we have to be extra careful. Maybe bring more members in the party to increase our forces.” He would say, before giving Elusive another nod. “You’re right that we would need a cleric, but our cleric is in the side quest team. So, it’s a little complicated in terms of getting to certain levels.” He explained, before seeing Elusive summoning her motorcycle. Upon hearing about a drive, Dynamo raised his hoof. “I wouldn’t mind taking a ride. I guess it depends on who would be up for said ride too.” He says, looking over to Trilby and Pencil on the mention of an upgrade. “What kind of upgrade do you mean, Trilby? I’m glad you, Pencil and the others were able to get through the quest. At least it was a beginner stage. Helps to get used to the battle mechanics and build some teamwork.”

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Samurai Equine

Shadow sighed in relief once she received Elusive's reply “Oh, thank Luna, she's alright”

@Dynamo Pad

She looked in awe at Dynamo's motorcycle. She hasn't seen one before. She decided to stay quiet and stand beside Trilby.

[ExplosionMare 18,064]

@Samurai Equine

Pencil nodded her head as she listened to what Elusive Facts had to say. She understood now that most of the item-gathering would be done in the over world. However, she did not want to leave Elusive Facts out. She seemed like she really wanted to be a part of something, at least in Pencil’s perspective. Pencil gave Elusive a welcoming smile then said,

“Well, even if being a gatherer doesn’t work out, you’re welcome to join us anyways. You won’t really have to do a lot of fighting since we’re just the side quest team,”

She then paused, remembering one of the bosses Elusive mentioned. Pencil knew or at least heard most of the names, but she never remembered anypony by the name of Tempest Shadow. Was Tempest a new arrival she just heard about? Was the new arrival nice in real life or just like their boss self? Pencil figured all she could do was ask.

“Hey, uh, Elusive, who’s the ‘Tempest Shadow’ you mentioned earlier? I don’t recall hearing of anyone who went by that name. Are they new to Friendshire? And most importantly, do you think they’re nice?” she asked, talking too fast for anypony to keep up.

All of these questions kept boiling to the surface and Pencil wasn’t sure why. She normally wasn’t this curious about anypony. Perhaps, she thought, this was her game character’s way of learning about character stats. That, or Pencil was just looking for something to talk about.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Windy Breeze 🥧 @CameoShadowness @Pastel Heart

Thundy thought for a moment. "If anyone wants to get to level faster, but can't fit in Elusive's motorcycle, I do have a backup." Thundy said as he thought of the name Tempest Shadow. "Wait...I think I've heard of Tempest Shadow before...wasn't she that one unicorn that worked alongside that...oh what's his name, Storm King was it?" Thundy asked. 

Chelsea shivered at the mention of the Storm King. 

[Silly Druid 7,005]

14 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

When Tree Song enters the light, at first, it is blinding, then it is completely black.
It's black because Tree Song soon find herself in a completely black void. Although an electronic grid pattern becomes the floor and the ceiling of this empty void. And before she can ask too many questions...

SELECT YOUR CHARACTER!

The game's narrator speaks up, and then a window appears before Tree Song. It's a window of different characters to choose from, but unfortunately, all the main game characters have either been chosen or are locked for now. All that is left is characters that can observe or help out in small ways, but not so much go into levels or side quests.

The first in the selection is Arcane Druid. Despite the name, it is actually a neutrally aligned character that can help instantly transport main characters to their next destination. There is also Angelic Gatekeeper, a guardian that protects the entrance to a bonus level in the heavens; Wondering Blacksmith, whose job is quite obvious, and so on. If none of these characters seem interesting, Tree Song can always keep scrolling through the selection until she finds something she likes.

@Samurai Equine

At first a little confused by the change of environment, Tree Song regains her composure, and looks at the character selection window. She thinks about the Arcane Druid, but she is a druid in training in real life, so in the game she prefers to be something different. Finally, although she is not sure what protecting the entrance to a bonus level entails, she chooses Angelic Gatekeeper, only because the name sounds so cool.

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Dynamo Pad

"Oh, don't be so modest~! I'm sure you've won many a fortune in your escapades. I admit, I do like a risk taker... I'll share my spoils with you, if you'll grant me the same courtesy~"

Pastel smiled, casting a flirty look at Dynamo. What's gotten into her? She was completely being consumed by her character it seemed. Or she was really good at LARPing and using this chance to show another side of herself. Maybe it was both.

@Samurai Equine

The sight of Elusives revved motorcycle was enough to briefly snap Pastel out of delusional state, letting out a "so cool" under her breath. She smiled over at Dynamo as if expecting some kind of invitation even though it wasn't their ride to begin with.

Her ears perked and head turned as Trilby promised an upgrade. 

"An upgrade, huh? Gimme the juice! The fix! Gimme what I need!"

[Dynamo Pad 11,339]

14 hours ago, C. Thunder Dash said:

@Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Dynamo Pad @Windy Breeze 🥧 @CameoShadowness @Pastel Heart

Thundy thought for a moment. "If anyone wants to get to level faster, but can't fit in Elusive's motorcycle, I do have a backup." Thundy said as he thought of the name Tempest Shadow. "Wait...I think I've heard of Tempest Shadow before...wasn't she that one unicorn that worked alongside that...oh what's his name, Storm King was it?" Thundy asked. 

Chelsea shivered at the mention of the Storm King. 

"That's a good idea. It'll save us the energy needed for walking. Although, it would be good to make sure we can find power ups and such when traveling. You never know who we'll be facing next at this point." Dynamo responded, turning his attention over towards Trilby. "We might need a bit of assistance in finding the second level. If that's okay, that is. Since Elusive joined the group, I'm guessing we might need to change up the team roster. If not, then we'll figure something out and go from there." Upon hearing the name 'Storm King,' Dynamo's eyes widened as he looked back to Thundy. "The Storm King! Now I remember!" He exclaimed, giving an apologetic look as he shouted out of nowhere. "I'm sorry about that, but now I know who Tempest Shadow is. I remember hearing about this when I was still living in Fillydelphia. Apparently, the Storm King had appeared in Canterlot and managed to subdue most of the Princesses. Princess Twilight and her friends had managed to escape, but the Storm King sent Tempest to go after them. In the end, Twilight and the others managed to help Tempest to learn about friendship and defeated the Storm King. I honestly didn't know that Tempest was here in Friendshire. I wonder why."

11 hours ago, Pastel Heart said:

@Dynamo Pad

"Oh, don't be so modest~! I'm sure you've won many a fortune in your escapades. I admit, I do like a risk taker... I'll share my spoils with you, if you'll grant me the same courtesy~"

Pastel smiled, casting a flirty look at Dynamo. What's gotten into her? She was completely being consumed by her character it seemed. Or she was really good at LARPing and using this chance to show another side of herself. Maybe it was both.

Dynamo looked back to Pastel, who seemed to have been giving him a look. He blushed with a tilt of his head as he wasn't sure if she was acting like herself, or if she was getting heavily invested in her character class. "I mean, I have gained a few victories when competing in some local tournaments. I'm not the type of pony to be greedy when gathering the spoils. Especially since I lead you and the others to the power ups." He winked, before giving her a smile.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Dynamo Pad @Pastel Heart @Samurai Equine @ExplosionMare @Windy Breeze 🥧 @CameoShadowness

Thundy gathered some electricity and made a large military humvee appear. It had a lift kit, body armor and a mounted turret. Thundy got in the driver's seat and started up the engine. The 6.7 liter V8 diesel engine roared to life loudly. Thundy waited for other who wanted a ride to get in. Chelsea got in as well.